Emission Reduction Alberta
Date: 2020-11-06
The Alberta and Canadian federal governments have announced a commitment of $280 million in funding to support a range of emission reduction programs for small, medium and large industries in the province.

Funding includes $180 million from the province of Albert's industry-funded Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) Fund and up to $100 million from the federal government's Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund (LCELF).

The Government of Alberta will put up to $55 million towards Emission Reduction Alberta's (ERA) Energy Savings for Business program which targets small and medium-sized industrial and commercial facilities through the TIER fund. The TIER fund will leverage $30 million in funds with public and private investment including $25 million from the federal Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund.

Alberta businesses will be eligible for funding to cover a portion of their costs for cost-saving and emission reduction projects once the program launches in January 2021.

Projects can include commercially available energy-efficient upgrades such as HVAC technologies, weatherization, hot water systems, indoor/outdoor commercial and industrial lighting and control systems, and alternate power source, the release stated. (Source: Emission Reduction Alberta, DCN-JOC News, 5 Nov., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  Energy Efficiency,  Emission Reduction Alberta,  

International Development Finance Club
Date: 2020-11-06
The International Development Finance Club (IDFC), a worldwide group of 26 national and regional development banks, is reporting its members supplied $197 billion in green finance in 2019, 95 pct of which went towards climate finance while the remaining $10 billion funded biodiversity projects , industrial pollution control and other environmental projects.

Within the climate finance, 87 pct went towards green energy projects focused on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions while climate change adaptation accounted for 10 pct. Of the total $196 billion, $135.8 billion was lent in east Asia and the Pacific region, in line with the geographical make-up of the group and its spread of assets. (Source: International Development Finance Club, Nov., 2020) Contact: International Development Finance Club, www.idfc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change news,  Carbon Emissions news,  

Yellow Door Energy
Date: 2020-11-04
In the UAE, Dubai-based solar energy and energy efficiency specialist Yellow Door Energy is reporting commissioning of a 2 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar plant for Future Pipe Industries (FPI) in Dubai Industrial City.

The 6,000 panel, 18,000 square-meter array is expected to generate 3,200 MWh of energy in its first year of operation -- equivalent to reducing 1,300 tpy of carbon emissions. (Source: Yellow Door Energy, PR, 25 Oct., 2020) Contact: Yellow Door Energy, Jeremy Crane, CEO, +971 4 454 3033, www.yellowdoorenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Yellow Door Energy ,  Solar,  

Qatar Airways ,Climate Car
Date: 2020-11-04
In Doka, Qatar Airways is reporting the launch of its voluntary carbon offset program that allows passengers to offset the carbon emissions associated with their journey with independently verified carbon reduction credits. Emissions will be offset with climate and sustainable development expert ClimateCare.

The program is built on a partnership with the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Carbon Offset Programme, providing customers to offset emissions. IATA's Carbon Offset Programme has been approved by the independent audit organization Quality Assurance Standard which assesses how organizations calculate emissions, select offset projects and how they communicate this information to their customers. IATA is one of only four organizations worldwide to meet this standard. (Source: Qatar Airways, FTN, 3 Nov., 2020) Contact: ClimateCare, Robert Stevens, CEO, +44 (0) 1865591000, business@climatecare.org, www.climatecare.org: IATA, Michael Gill, Director Aviation Environment, Alexandre de Juniac, CEO, +41 22 770 2967, (514) 874-0202 -- Montreal Office, www.iata.org; Qatar Airways, www.qatarairways.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Qatar Airways,  Carbon Offset,  Carbon Credits,  IATA,  ClimateCare ,  

Petronas
Date: 2020-11-04
In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian oil and gas giant Petronas is reporting plans to be the first state-owned Asian energy company to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

To that end, Petronas reports it will optimize hydrocarbon efficiency and carbon capture, employ more low-carbon and renewables-based solutions, and advance emission reduction technologies as part of its strategy to achieve its carbon neutrality goal.

Petronas produces roughly 1.8 million bpd of oil equivalent (boe/d), is a major LNG exporter and operates about 400,000 bpd of refining capacity. (Source: Petronas, PR, 3 Nov., 2020) Contact: Petronas, www.petronas,com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  

G20
Date: 2020-11-02
In their ministerial meeting on 27-28 September 2020, the G20 Energy Ministers endorsed the Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) Platform as a tool to manage emissions and foster greater world-wide access to energy. The Ministers also acknowledged the CCE Platform and its "4Rs" framework -- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Remove -- as a holistic, integrated, inclusive, and pragmatic approach to managing emissions.

According to the G20, the CCE "4Rs" will advance stable and secure energy markets and energy access for all while holistically managing emissions and advancing cleaner and more sustainable future.

The G20 presented the CCE Platform that includes the CCE Approach, Accelerator and Guide -- a toolkit of opportunities and recommended options to be utilized by G20 members, each according to their different national circumstances, needs, and priorities.

Collectively, G20 members represent roughly 80 pct of the world's economic output, two-thirds of global population and three-quarters of international trade. (Source: G20, Ritz Herald, 30 Oct., 2020) Contact: G20, www.g20.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Low-Carbon Economy,  Carbon Emissions,  G20,  

Maxol
Date: 2020-11-02
In Ireland, Dublin-based motor transportation fuel supplier Maxol Group has announced a carbon emissions offsetting programme to support domestic and global green initiatives, including the planting of 10,000 trees across Ireland, local community projects and global projects designed to offset duel and carbon emissions.

Launched in conjunction with international sustainability company GreenPrint, the programme aims to help balance out the environmental impact of Maxol's new Premium fuel range that is being rolled out across its fueling station network.

Under the Maxol plan, for every litre of Maxol premium fuel purchased, Maxol calculates the purchases carbon emissions and offsets them at 100 pct through investments in certified carbon offset projects around the world and Irish environmental initiatives. In addition, 10,000 trees will be planted in Ireland over the next two years in collaboration with Trees on the Land Initiative. (Source: Maxol, PR, Avondhu Press, 1 Nov., 2020) Contact: Maxol, Brian Donaldson, CEO, www.maxolcarbonneutral.ie; Trees on the Land Initiative, www.treesontheland.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Offset,  

Platte River Power Authority
Date: 2020-11-02
In Fort Collins, Colorado, not-for-profit wholesale electric power generation and transmission provider Platte River Power Authority reports it is moving ahead with its Integrated Resource Plan -- a road map for electric power production between 2021 and 2040 -- to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 90 pct of 2005 levels by 2030. To that end, the utility will shutter its coal-fired Rawhide Unit 1 power plant north of Wellington and possibly construct a new natural gas-powered plant.

Platte River previously adopted a goal to achieve 100 pct non-carbon electricity by 2030. 2030. (Source: Platte River, Coloradoan, Contact: Platte River Power Authority, Jason Frisbie, CEO, 970-226-4000, www.prpa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Platte River Power Authority,  Carbon Emissions,  

Environmental Defense Fund
Date: 2020-10-30
"The United States needs to stay focused on aggressive action to cut greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, we recognize the need for carbon removal technologies and solutions in order to reach the goal of net zero emissions across the economy by 2050 and avert the worst impact of climate change.

"EDF (Environmental Defense Fund) thanks Reps. Kuster (D-NH), McKinley (R-WV), Tonko (D-NY), Gonzalez (R-OH), Peters (D-CA), Fortenberry (R-NE), O'Halleran (D-AZ) and Schweikert (R-AZ) for their leadership in introducing the Carbon Removal, Efficient Agencies, Technology Expertise (CREATE) Act, an important bipartisan bill that coordinates efforts across the federal government to research, develop, and demonstrate these crucial technologies." (Source: Environmental Defense Fund, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: Environmental Defense Fund, Elizabeth Gore, Senior VP, Political Affairs, 202-572-3298, www.edf.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Environmental Defense Fund,  Carbon Emissions,  CO2,  

CF Industries Holdings
Date: 2020-10-30
Deerfield, Illinois-based hydrogen and nitrogen products specialist CF Industries Holdings, Inc. has announced steps to support a global hydrogen and clean fuel economy through the carbon-free production of green and low-carbon ammonia.

To that end, the company Board of Directors has authorized carbon capture and storage and other carbon abatement projects across its production facilities. The company is aiming for a 25 pct reduction in CO2e emissions intensity by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Additionally, the company has signed low-carbon and CCS Memorandums of Understanding with ThyssenKrupp and Haldor Topsoe. (Source: CF Industries Holdings, PR, Contact: CF Industries Holdings, Tony Will, CEO, www.cfindustries.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Hydrogen,  CCS,  

CF Industries Holdings
Date: 2020-10-30
Deerfield, Illinois-based hydrogen and nitrogen products specialist CF Industries Holdings, Inc. has announced steps to support a global hydrogen and clean fuel economy through the carbon-free production of green and low-carbon ammonia.

To that end, The company Board of Directors has authorized construction of a 20,000 tpy green hydrogen production facility as well as CO2 sequestration and other carbon abatement projects across its production facilities. Additionally, the company has signed low-carbon and CCS Memorandums of Understanding with ThyssenKrupp and Haldor Topsoe and is in discussions with global utilities and maritime transportation providers interested in using low-carbon ammonia directly as a fuel.

The company is aiming for a 25 pct reduction in CO2e emissions intensity by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. (Source: CF Industries Holdings, PR, Contact: CF Industries Holdings, Tony Will, CEO, www.cfindustries.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  Clean Fuel,  Green Hydrogen,  

Arizona Corporation Commission
Date: 2020-10-30
In Phoenix, the Arizona Corporation Commission reports approval of new regulations requiring electric utilities to source half of their power from renewable energy by 2035 and phase out utility coal- and natural-gas-burning power plants to cut carbon emissions in half by 2032 and 75 pct by 2040, rising to net-zero emissions in 2050. The carbon reductions would be based on how much carbon a utility's power plants emitted on average in the years 2016-18.

The new rules update the state's 2006 Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff. (Source: Arizona Corporation Commission, PR, Arizona Republic, 29 Oct., 2020) Contact: Arizona Corporation Commission, www.azcc.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Arizona Corporation Commission news,  Renewable Energy Net-Zero Emissions news,  

Japan
Date: 2020-10-28
In Tokyo, recently sworn-in Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has pledged his country will achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050.

In a policy speech, Suga noted he intends to make a sustainable economy a pillar of his growth strategy and emphasized the need to shift away from fossil fuels to counter climate change as an opportunity rather than a burden. Under Japan's current energy plan, 56 pct of its energy requirements are met from fossil fuels. (Source: DD News, 27 Oct., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Japan Carbon Emissions,  

Luxembourg,Carbon Tax
Date: 2020-10-28
In Luxembourg, the government statistics office Statec is projecting the government's planned carbon tax will add about 5 cents per litre for transportation fuel and add roughly €148 million to the national treasury in 2020. The tax, which will increase to €25 per tonne of carbon emissions in 2022 and €30 in 2023, is expected the generate between €200 million and €300 million by 2024.

The carbon tax is intended to disincentivise the sale of combustion engine transportation. (Source: Delano.lu, 27 Oct., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Tax,  

BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell,Total
Date: 2020-10-28
International energy giants BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell and Total and National Grid are reporting their formation of the Northern Endurance Partnership, a joint alliance, and the submission of a £75 million bid for government funding from the second round of the UK's £170 million Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge for a project that will shuttle carbon emissions captured from the Teesside and Humber industrial hubs to a porus rock aquifer beneath the seabed for permanent sequestration. The partnership claims Endurance could potentially cut the UK's emissions in half.

The planned offshore pipeline network is key to the success of two major industrial decarbonisation projects being plotted on the UK's east coast -- Zero Carbon Humber and Net Zero Teesside -- aimed at capturing CO2 from local industry and then either finding other industrial uses for the CO2 or storing it under the North Sea. Both projects, Zero Carbon Humber and Net Zero Teesside, plan to capture and transport 17 million and 10 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions respectively every year, with commissioning in both cases earmarked for 2026. (Source: BP, UK Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge, Business Green, 27 Oct., 2020) Contact: UK Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge, www.idric.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News CCS,  BP,  Eni,  Equinor,  Shell,  Total,  UK Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge ,  

ACEEE
Date: 2020-10-28
According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy's (ACEEE) recently released Electrifying Heating in Existing Commercial Buildings Could Cut Their Emissions 44pct report , replacing gas-burning heating systems in commercial buildings with efficient electrified heat-pumps could reduce these buildings' total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 44 pct and ultimately become "zero carbon" as the electric grid moves toward renewable energy sources.

The report models the impacts of replacing several types of gas-based heating systems in existing commercial buildings with various electric heat pump systems. In some cases, electrifying heating already pays back for building owners. The report found that about 27 pct of commercial floor space heated with fossil fuel systems can be electrified today with a simple payback of less than 10 years. If policymakers enacted a package of public investments, incentives, and carbon pricing policies, the proportion of commercial building space that can be electrified with this payback would increase to 60 pct, the report notes.

Access the ACEEE Electrifying Heating in Existing Commercial Buildings Could Cut Their Emissions 44pct report HERE. (Source: ACEEE, PR, 28 Oct., 2020) Contact: ACEEE, 202-507-4000, www.aceee.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News ACEEE news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Carbon Emissions news,  

Blue Planet Systems
Date: 2020-10-26
Hanover, Maryland-based Blue Planet Systems Corp. reports it has raised $10 million for the commercialization of its carbon capture and utilization (CCUS) system. The system converts diluted CO2 from fossil fuel-fired electric generating stations, cement or steel mills and petroleum refineries to carbonate for mineralization into calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) -- coarse, concrete-grade synthetic limestone. The company contends their solution is scalable, economically viable and more than compensates for Portland cement's carbon footprint.

Blue Planet directly converts CO2 diluted in flue gas to carbonate, avoiding the costs and parasitic loads of purifying the greenhouse gas from a dilute stream in order to liquify it for underground disposal. Instead, the synthetic limestone is used in concrete where the CO2 is stored permanently.

The company's first commercial plant is now under construction in Pittsburg, California. (Source: Blue Planet Systems Corp., PR Concrete News, Oct., 2020) Contact: Blue Planet Systems Corp., 800-921-1144, www.blueplanet.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CO2,  Carbon Emissions,  CCUS,  Carbon Capture,  Cement,  

European Union,EC
Date: 2020-10-26
In 2019, the EU endorsed a new target of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, it is predicted that current policies will only reduce emissions by 60 pct (as against 1990 levels) by 2050.

To begin to address the challenge ahead, the European Commission (EC) published the 2019 Communication on the European Green Deal (EGD), a growth strategy to reset the EC's commitment to tackling climate change. The EGD outlined an all-sector approach to reducing emissions and decoupling economic growth from resource use. The EC committed to presenting an impact assessed plan to increase the existing target for 2030 of reducing emissions by 40 pct to at least 50 pct to 55 pct against 1990 levels.

Based on this impact assessment, the EC published a Communication on Stepping up 2030 Europe's Climate Ambition (Climate Target Plan) in September 2020 proposing to increase the 2030 target to at least 55 pct emissions reduction by 2030. Under the Climate Target Plan renewable energy would meet 38 pct to 40 pct of gross final consumption in 2030, and energy consumption would further reduce in 2030, achieving savings of 36--37 pct (final energy consumption -- total energy consumed by end users) and 39--41 pct (primary energy consumption -- total energy used to meet final energy needs).

Previously this month, the European Parliament (EP) voted to up the 2030 target to 60 pct , and urged the EC to explore options for setting 2040 targets and negative post-2050 targets. The EP also sought a greater role in setting the indicative trajectory for achieving the target, an EU carbon budget, and a more explicit focus on emissions in the maritime and aviation transport sectors.

Access the Climate Target Plan HERE. (Source: EU, EC, mondaq, 25 October, 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  Climate Change,  

Oxford University
Date: 2020-10-26
In the UK, a multi-disciplinary team from the University of Oxford has released The Oxford Principles for Net Zero Aligned Carbon Offsetting guidelines on how offsetting should be done to ensure it is trustworthy and effective in helping the world achieve carbon net-zero.

The Oxford guidelines recommend a shift to verified carbon removal offsetting and to long-lived carbon storage, stating "users of offsets should increase the portion of their offsets that come from carbon removals rather than from emission reductions, ultimately reaching 100 pct carbon removals by mid-century to ensure compatibility with the Paris Climare Agreement goals". To that end, the guidelines also recommend:

Cut emissions, use high quality offsets, and regularly revise offsetting strategy as best practice evolves: prioritise reducing your own emissions, ensure environmental integrity, and maintain transparency;

Shift to carbon removal offsetting -- Users of offsets should increase the portion of their offsets that come from carbon removals;

Shift to long-lived storage -- This refers to methods of storing carbon that have a low risk of reversal over centuries to millennia, such as storing CO2 in geological reservoirs or mineralizing carbon into stable forms;

Support the development of net-zero aligned offsetting -- Using long-term agreements; forming sector-specific alliances; supporting the restoration and protection of a wide range of natural and semi-natural ecosystems in their own right; and adopting and publicising these Principles and incorporate them into regulation and standard setting for approaches to offsetting and net-zero.

Access Oxford Principles for Net Zero Aligned Carbon Offsetting HERE. (Source: University of Oxford, Smith School Enterprise & Environment, Sept., Oct., 2020) Contact: University of Oxford, Smith School, +44 0 1865 614942, enquiries@smithschool,ox.ac.uk, www.smithschool.ox.ac.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Oxford University,  Carbon Offsetting,  Carbon Offset,  Carbon Emissions,  

Zero Carbon Humber
Date: 2020-10-23
In the UK, Zero Carbon Humber has sent an open letter to energy minister Kwasi Kwarteng, calling on the government to back a major funding bid. This follows on from the 12 organisations behind the project submitting a bid to the second phase of the government's Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund for £75 million of funding.

The Zero Carbon Humber letter argues that if the bid was successful it would help unlock a potentially multi-billion pound project, reduce the UK's annual emissions by 15 pct and help the UK meet its international legally binding climate target.

The Zero Carbon Humber partnership, which was first announced in May 2019, members include: Drax, National Grid Ventures , Equinor, international trade bodies, business and investment groups, local authorities , academic institutions and others.

According to Zero Carbon Humber's website, "Industrial powerhouses like the Yorkshire and the Humber region are an essential and valued part of the UK's economy but produce high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions: the Humber is the most carbon intensive industrial cluster in the country, emitting 12.4 million tpy. Developing carbon capture usage and storage (CCS or CCUS) technology and hydrogen (H2) starting in Yorkshire and the Humber would preserve jobs by enabling energy intensive industries to continue to operate and thrive even against a backdrop of ever tighter emissions targets linked to the UK's carbon budgets. Without CCUS, the Humber will face perhaps insurmountable challenges. By drawing on the existing skills and infrastructure in it and the wider region, the Humber can become the base for the UK's first zero carbon industrial cluster, helping to create a cleaner environment for future generations whilst delivering new jobs and export opportunities for British businesses." 2021. (Source: Zero Carbon Humber, Current News, 23 Oct., 2020) Contact: Zero Carbon Humber, www.zerocarbonhumber.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  UK Carbon Emissions,  

LafargeHolcim
Date: 2020-10-21
Swiss cement and building materials giant LafargeHolcim reports receipt of $1.5 million in US DOE grant funding to research and develop a system to capture and sequester CO2 emissions on a commercial scale at its cement plant in Florence, Colorado.

When completed in 2024, the facility will be the first in the U.S. to use carbon-capture technology on a commercial scale. As previously reported, LafargeHolcim worked with carbon capture technology provider Svante to build a pilot carbon-capture unit at a plant in British Columbia, Canada.

The cement sector is widely reported as the the world's third-largest industrial energy consumer and is the second-largest industrial emitter of carbon dioxide, accounting for 7 pct of the global emissions, according to the International Energy Agency. (Source: LafargeHolcim, PR, Denver Post, 20 Oct., 2020) Contact: LafargeHolcim Ltd, Magali Anderson, Chief Sustainability Officer, Stephanie Sulcer, Communications, 847 716 0368, stephanie.sulcer@lafargeholcim.com, www.lafargeholcim.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News LafargeHolcim,  CCS,  Carbon Emissions,  Cement,  

Maple Leaf Foods
Date: 2020-10-21
Mississauga, Ontario-based food processor Maple Leaf Foods -- the world's first major carbon-neutral food company and the only food company in Canada to adopt science-based emissions targets aligned with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change goals -- reports it will mark one year as a carbon neutral company November 7, 2020.

Maple Leaf's sustainability goals include a commitment to reduce its environmental footprint and food waste by 50 pct by 2025, and to cut absolute greenhouse gas emissions produced from its operations and electricity purchased by 30 pct by 2030 following science-based targets. To offset unavoidable emissions that cannot be reduced, the company has invested in 11 high-impact environmental projects across North America, including forestry, waste diversion and renewable energy initiatives to bring the company's net carbon footprint to zero. (Source: Maple Leaf Foods Inc., PR, 20 Oct., 2020) Contact: Maple Leaf Foods, www.mapleleaffoods.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Neutral,  Carbon Emissions,  

Emera
Date: 2020-10-19
For more than 15 years, Emera’s strategy has been rooted in its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments. This year’s sustainability report highlights Emera’s continued commitment to investing in cleaner and renewable energy, while focusing on increasing reliability and maintaining customer affordability. Some of the achievements highlighted in this year’s report include a 35 pct reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across Emera’s operations from 2005 levels and an increase in installed renewable capacity across Emera from 832 MW in 2018, to 1,107 MW.

Decarbonization is central to Emera’s strategy, work that started in its home province. Nova Scotia Power has delivered one of the fastest transitions to cleaner energy in Canada and has already achieved greenhouse gas reductions that exceed the targets set by Canada in the COP 21 Paris Agreement.

The utility boasts one of the highest integrations of wind energy in North America at 18 per cent of total generation. Emera also completed the $1.7 billion Maritime Link project, enabling clean hydro energy to flow between Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia in 2021. In Florida, Emera has increased its solar capacity at Tampa Electric from nearly zero just a few years ago, to approximately 600MW today, with another 650MW to be installed by 2023. Additionally, the $850 million Big Bend modernization project is underway to significantly reduce the use of coal at the facility by repowering one coal unit with natural gas and retiring a second coal unit. Of Emera’s $7.5 billion capital spending plan through to 2022, 60 per cent is committed to initiatives to make energy cleaner and more reliable.

Emera Inc. is a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with approximately $32 billion in assets and 2019 revenues of more than $6.1 billion. The company primarily invests in regulated electricity generation and electricity and gas transmission and distribution with a strategic focus on transformation from high carbon to low carbon energy sources.

Download the Emera Inc. sustainability report HERE (Source: Emera, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Emera, Scott Balfour, President and CEO, www.emera.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Emera news,  Renewable Energy news,  Carbon Emissions news,  

DNV GL,National Grid ESO
Date: 2020-10-19
DNV GL, the world's largest resource of independent energy experts and certification body, has been appointed by National Grid ESO as a lead partner in the Offshore Wind Coordination project in Great Britain.

The project will analyze a coordinated approach for offshore grid development and shape the future national strategy of Great Britain's offshore grid through feeding into the UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy's (UKBESS) Offshore transmission network review. The UK regulator OFGEM is also participating in the project.

The project will review and recommend ways to improve how offshore wind farms are connected to the onshore transmission network. To that end, DNV GL will assess: technology availability (HVDC equipment); analyze technical and regulatory barriers and solutions; study implications on power system security and stability; develop offshore and onshore grid designs and; conduct societal cost-benefit analysis of the offshore grid.

As offshore infrastructure is anticipated to be shared among multiple projects, it is projected that a harmonized development approach will result in optimal utilization of infrastructure, higher integration of offshore wind energy, reduction of carbon emissions and consumer bills, and provision of operational benefits to the onshore grid. Offshore wind continues to be a key electricity source for the UK government and supports its commitment for the country to be net zero by 2050. (Source: DNV GL. National Grid ESO, Oct., 2020) Contact: DNV GL, www.dnvgl.com; National Grid ESO, www.natopnalgrideso.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News OFGEM,  DNV GL,  Offshore Wind,  National Grid ESO ,  

Emera
Date: 2020-10-19
Halifax, Nova Scotia-headquartered energy services firm Emera Inc. is reporting an update of its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) sustainability report and the company's commitment to cleaner and renewable energy while increasing reliability and affordability.

To date this year the company reports a 35 pct reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across operations from 2005 levels and an increase in installed renewable energy capacity from 832 MW in 2018, to 1,107 MW. The report notes Emera's Nova Scotia Power unit delivered one of the fastest transitions to cleaner energy in Canada and has already achieved GHG reductions that exceed Canada's COP 21 Paris Climate Agreement commitments. Additionally, the utility boasts one of the highest integrations of wind energy in North America at 18 pct of total generation. In Florida, Emera has increased its solar capacity at Tampa Electric from nearly zero just a few years ago, to approximately 600MW today, with another 650MW slated for installation by 2023. Of Emera's $7.5 billion capital spending plan through to 2022, 60 pct is committed to cleaner energy initiatives.

Emera Inc., which had approximately $32 billion in assets and more than $6.1 billion in revenue in 2019, primarily invests in regulated electricity generation and electricity and gas transmission and distribution with a strategic focus on transformation from high-carbon to low-carbon energy sources.

Download the Emera Inc. sustainability report HERE. (Source: Emera, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Emera, Scott Balfour, President and CEO, www.emera.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Emera,  Renewable Energy Sustainability,  Carbon Emissions,  Climate Change,  Low-Carbon Energy,  

Barclays Bank
Date: 2020-10-19
In the UK, a Barclays Bank survey of 1,000 farmers has found that 83 pct of respondents believe they could be carbon-neutral by 2035 -- five years ahead of the 2040 target set by the National Farmers Union (NFU) -- while 16 pct claimed they were already carbon neutral.

The survey found the average farmer is set to invest more than £195,000 over the next decade on renewable energy, improvements to their waste and slurry management and other in agri-technologies to achieve greater efficiency and sustainability. The survey also suggests that Brexit could accelerate the process of farmers becoming carbon neutral as more than two-thirds of respondents believed it could increase their farm's competitiveness after the UK leaves the EU. (Source: Barclays Bank, Farmers Weekly, 19 Oct., 2020) Contact: Barclays Bank, www.barclays.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Neutral,  

JERA
Date: 2020-10-16
In Tokyo, Japan's largest power generation utility JERA Co. Inc. reports it will close all of its "inefficient" coal power plants by 2030, as part of a roadmap to reach zero CO2 emissions by 2050. To that end, JERA plans to: cut carbon emission intensity of its thermal power plants by 20 pct; develop renewable energy resources such as offshore wind; gradually increase the ratio of mixed combustion of fossil fuels, ammonia and hydrogen at its power plants; and improve efficiencies.

Eighty pct of Japan's electricity presently comes from thermal power generation, which accounts for 40 pct of the country's total carbon emissions. (Source: JERA, PR 15 Oct., 2020)Contact: JERA, www.jera.co.jp/english

More Low-Carbon Energy News JERA,  Carbon Emissions,  

Blue Flint Ethanol.Midwest AgEnergy,CCS
Date: 2020-10-16
Following up on our June 22nd coverage, Blue Flint Ethanol, part of Midwest AgEnergy , reports test well drilling for its previously announced "Carbon Zero" carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiative at its corn-ethanol plant in Underwood, McLean County, Wyoming is underway. The roughly $35 million test well is expected to be complete within 6 weeks.

The Blue Flint ethanol plant's roughly 200,000 tpy of carbon emissions are the result of its corn fermentation process which uses enzymes to break down the starch into glucose. Yeast then converts the glucose to ethanol, and C02 is released in the process. (Source: Blue Flint Ethanol, Bismark Tribune, 14 Oct., 2020) Contact: Blue Flint Ethanol, Midwest AgEnergy, Jeff Zuger, CEO, (701) 442-7500, www.midwestagenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Blue Flint Ethanol,  COs,  CCS,  

International Energy Agency
Date: 2020-10-14
"Despite a record drop in global emissions this year, the world is far from doing enough to put them into decisive decline. Only faster structural changes to the way we produce and consume energy can break the emissions trend for good.

"Governments have the capacity and the responsibility to take decisive actions to accelerate clean energy transitions and put the world on a path to reaching our climate goals, including net-zero emissions." -- Fatih Birol, Exec. Dir., International Energy Agency (IEA, Oct., 2020 www.iea.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News International Energy Agency,  Carbon Emissions,  

CO2
Date: 2020-10-14
At this week's Tokyo International Conference on Carbon Recycling, Japan and the United States inked a memorandum of cooperation to accelerate the research and development of technology to recycle carbon dioxide and turn it into fuel and chemical materials and share the results as part of their efforts to fight global warming.

The two countries recognize "carbon recycling as one of the future's most promising options to achieve carbon neutral or net-negative carbon emissions and promote economic growth," the memorandum notes.

Japan sees the technology involving the capture, storage, utilization and recycling of carbon dioxide as a promising solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and securing a stable energy source, according to the memorandum. (Source: Mainichi Japan, 13 Oct., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News CO2,  CCS,  CCU,  GHGs,  Carbon Emissions,  

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Date: 2020-10-14
With the support of a grant from the Department of Energy, Miao Yu, the Priti and Mukesh Chatter '82 Career Development Chair of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, will develop a novel porous material capable of capturing even very small concentrations of CO2 in the air and collecting the gas for further use.

The researchers will use amine molecules to trap the CO2, but the bond formed during that chemical reaction must be broken so that the gas can be gathered. And in order to do that, the material has to be heated. Yu and his team will take a unique approach that involves loading amine molecules into a porous material, such as carbon or silica, through which CO2 can pass and get trapped. Another porous coating will cover this material, trapping the amine molecules inside.

The material will be electrospun into porous fibers, which can be woven into mats that could be hung vertically so that air could easily pass, or be blown, through them. In addition to reducing carbon emissions, Yu believes this technology has the potential to generate clean energy in remote places or after natural disasters. (Source: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 13 October 2020) Contact: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Miao Yu, yum5@rpi.edu. 518-276-6808, www.rpi.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute news,  

UNFCCC
Date: 2020-10-12
The Collaborative Instruments for Ambitious Climate Action (CiACA) workstream of the UNFCCC has concluded the first series of "virtual" regional dialogues on carbon pricing (REdiCAP) in Latin America, Caribbean, West Africa, East and Southern Africa and South East Asia.

The dialogues aim was to create a platform to provide an opportunity for peer learning to countries that have an interest in carbon pricing instruments, which are crucial to help countries green their economies. The dialogues came at a crucial time with Parties committed to revising their national climate action plans -- Paris Climate Agreement Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) -- and willing to explore economic instruments to increase their ambition to tackle climate change.

Several participating countries expressed interest in receiving the support provided through the CiACA initiative to explore the adoption of carbon pricing instruments. In response to a request for support, the CiACA team through the RCCs can assist the targeted institutions in facilitating consultations with key stakeholder and providing technical assistance to identify economic instruments that can be adopted by the country to contribute to achieving a low carbon future. (Source: UN Climate Change News, 9 October 2020) Contact: REdiCAP and CiACA , Monique Nardi, mnardi@unfccc.int, www.unfccc.int

More Low-Carbon Energy News UNFCCC,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Price,  

CarbonStore
Date: 2020-10-12
Scotland-based forestry company Tilhill reports the launch of CarbonStore, a new service for landowners looking to sell woodland generated carbon credits to companies aiming to offset their carbon emissions. Under the service, landowners will have the opportunity to use the CarbonStore website to openly market their woodland carbon, offering market leading value while also securing an honest price for companies and helping them maximise their carbon offsetting ambitions.

Both Tilhill and CarbonStore are part of BSW, the UK's largest integrated forestry group. Also in partnership with CarbonStore are Maelor Forest Nurseries, a progressive commercial tree nursery and also part of the BSW Group. Together, the partnership can grow the tree seeds, design the new woodland creation schemes, plant the saplings, manage the trees and sell the carbon units. (Source: Tilhill, PR, Scottish Farmer, 11 Oct., 2020} Contact: Tilhill, David McCulloch, +44 0 1786 435000, Fax-- 01786 435001, enquiries@tilhill.com, www.tilhill.com; CarbonStore, +44 1786 649387, www.carbonstoreuk.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CarbonStore,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Offset,  

HSBC Bank
Date: 2020-10-12
London-listed, Asia-focused HSBC Bank reports it aims to "align its financed emissions -- the carbon emissions of its portfolio of customers -- to the Paris Climate Agreement goal to achieve net zero by 2050 or sooner." The bank -- Europe's largest with €2,219 billion in assets -- also aims to be net-zero in its operations and supply chain by 2030, according to a release.

HSBC has earmarked between $750 billion and $1.0 trillion to assist the transition. Banking major Barclays committed to zero-carbon by 2050 in March as have oil giants BP and Shell which recently confirmed their commitment to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. (Source: HSBC, The Edition, 9 Oct., 2020) Contact: HSBC, www.hsbc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News HSBC Bank,  Paris Climate Agreement,  Net-Zero Emissions,  Climate Change,  BP,  Shell,  

KPGM
Date: 2020-10-09
New York-headquartered global professional services firm KPMG is touting a new patent-pending blockchain solution intended to help organizations track, measure, report and offset their greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the company release, its Climate Accounting Infrastructure (CAI) platform is intended to complement an organization's existing systems including IoT sensors with outside data sources to set up an indelible record of emissions on a blockchain. (Source: KPGM, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: KPMG, Arun Ghosh, KPMG U.S. Blockchain Leader, www.home.kpmg/xx/en/home.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News KPMG,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Offset,  

UK Concrete
Date: 2020-10-07
UK Concrete, the London-headquartered trade body representing the UK's concrete and cement industry, is reporting CCS can tackle 61 pct of the industry's annual emissions by 2050, if the Government and industry collaborate to ensure that investment in arrays and related transport and carbon capture and storage (CCS) infrastructure is scaled up. The remainder of the emissions reductions needed for the sector to reach net-zero can be achieved through decarbonising transport; switching to biomass and hydrogen for heat; using lower-carbon materials and transitioning to renewable electricity. A smaller proportion of reductions can also be achieved by rolling out automated technologies in manufacturing facilities, according to UK Concrete.

To go beyond net-zero, the sector will need to develop innovative concrete blends which absorb CO2 from the atmosphere through a process called carbonation. Concrete produced in the UK is currently not performing in line with the global average carbonation rate -- but if it was, an amount of CO2e equivalent to 12 pct of the sector's footprint in mid-century could be captured, according to the trade group's UK Concrete and Cement Sector Roadmap for Beyond Net Zero report.

According to the International Energy Agency , CCS is "virtually the only technology solution for deep emissions reductions from cement production."

Download UK Concrete's UK Concrete and Cement Sector Roadmap for Beyond Net Zero report HERE. (Source: UK Concrete, PR,edie, 6 Oct., 2020) Contact: UK Concrete, +44 (0) 207 963 8000, info@thisisukconcrete.co.uk, www.thisisukconcrete.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Concrete news,  Carbon Emissions news,  Cement news,  

UK PM Boris Johnson
Date: 2020-10-07
In London, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a £160 million investment in wind power in a bid to fuel every home in the country with renewable energy within 10 years.

The announcement earmarks next-generation wind turbines for Teeside, Humber, Scotland and Wales as part of the government's plan to raise the country's renewable energy output from 30 to 40 GWs and become a "world leader in clean power."

According to the UK Committee on Climate Change (the CCC) the UK needs approximately 7,500 offshore wind turbines to meet a carbon emissions target of net-zero by 2050. (Source: TheCCC, Energy Digital, 6 Oct., 2020) Contact: The CCC, +44 (0) 75 8510 4950, private.secretary@theccc.org.uk, www.theccc.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News theCCC,  Green Energy,  Renewable Energy,  Wind,  

Forest Carbon Works
Date: 2020-10-07
Forest Carbon Works reports raising an additional $5M in growth capital from AXA Investment Managers Impact Fund: Climate and Biodiversity. The funds will be used to increase membership-based services throughout nation-wide.

Forest Carbon Works delivers premium payments to landowners for long-term conservation and climate outcomes on properties as small as forty acres. As members of Forest Carbon Works, some landowners are already getting paid more than $50,000 each year. Membership payments are substantial because carbon credits generated using the platform are legally recognized by the first enforced cap-and-trade program in the United States.

(Source: Forest Carbon Works, PR, 6 Oct., 2020) Contact: Forest Carbon Works , (415) 475-8966, inquire@forestcarbonworks.com, www.forestcarbonworks.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Credits,  Forest Carbon Works,  Carbon Sequestration,  Carbon Emissions,  

Enchant Energy, Public Service Co. of New Mexico
Date: 2020-10-07
In New Mexico, Enchant Energy is proposing to acquire Public Service Co. of New Mexico's coal-fired San Juan Generating Station, which is slated for closure in 2022.

Under Enchant's proposal, the plant would undergo a $1.4 billion overhaul that would allow it to continue producing power for at least another decade while meeting stricter environmental requirements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Under Enchant Energy's proposal, 90 pct of the CO2 could be stripped from the plant's emissions, with some being sold for enhanced oil production operations some being injected into the ground as part of a research project.

If the project proceeds, the San Juan Generating Station would be the largest carbon capture project and the lowest carbon-emitting, large-scale fossil fuel power plant in the world. (Source: Enchant Energy, ManufacturingNet, AP, 6 Oct., 2020) Contact: Public Service Co. of New Mexico, Pat O'Connell, Dir. Resource Planning, (505) 241-2700, www.pnm.com; Enchant Energy, Cindy Crane, CEO, (505) 436-1828, info@enchantenergy.com, www.enchantenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enchant Energy,  CCS,  Public Service Co. of New Mexico,  Enhanced Oil Recovery,  CO2,  Carbon Emissions,  

EU,European Commission
Date: 2020-10-05
On Monday, the European Union (EU) Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Executive VP Frans Timmermans presented the EC plan to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 pct by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.

Timmermans noted that although GHG emissions are not currently falling fast enough he underlined that becoming carbon neutral is both feasible and beneficial for the EU. He called for the European Parliament (EP) to confirm the proposed 55 pct 2030-target as the EU's new Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Climate Agreement, and to submit this to the UNFCCC by the end of this year. The EP is expected to vote next week on the EU Climate Law, which calls for 60 pct emission reductions in 2030. Timmermans also noted the EC would come up with proposals by June 2021 to revise key EU legislation such as the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), energy efficiency and renewable energy policies and strengthening CO2 standards for road vehicles to enable the EU to reach a more ambitious target.

As previously reported this past March, the EC proposed climate legislation requiring the EU to become climate-neutral by 2050 as part of the European Green Deal. This follows the December 2019 EC decision to endorse the 2050 climate-neutrality objective. On 17 September, the Commission amended its proposal to incorporate a new 2030 emissions reduction target. (Source: European Commissions, PR, EU News Room, Oct., 2020) Contact: EU, www.europa.eu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Neutral,  European Commissions,  EU ETS,  Climate Change,  

DHL Group
Date: 2020-10-05
Global maritime forwarding specialist DHL Global Forwarding has announced it will be neutralising the carbon emissions of all its LCL ocean freight shipments from the 1st January 2021 in keeping with its commitment to clean and sustainable sea freight transport and to become the first logistics service provider to offer fully climate neutral ocean freight shipments.

To that end, DHL's new "GoGreen" service allows freight forwarders to select vessels that use sustainable marine biofuel rather than the regularly used heavy bunker oil and thus reduce their carbon footprint at no additional cost. (Source: DHL, PR, Supply Chain, 29 Sept., 2020) Contact: DHL Group, www.dhl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  Marine Biofuel,  

BP
Date: 2020-10-05
In response to growing public concern over sustainability and climate change, global energy giant British Petroleum (BP) recently announced it plans to reduce its oil and gas outputin the next 10 years by 40 pct from the present levels, with an emphasis on low carbon technologies especially on renewables, bioenergy, hydrogen and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCS). Similarly, global oil major Shell has announced similar moves to a zero carbon future.

Sustainability and climate change has become an integral strategy of all the global firms, especially in the energy and downstream area, thanks to public pressure as well as due to the sustained efforts of think tanks and activist organizations like Greenpeace, according to the BP release. (Source: BP, Sept., 2020)Contact: BP, www.bp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BP,  Carbon Emissions,  Renewable Energy,  

UK National Health Service
Date: 2020-10-05
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) has announced a comprehensive plan to become the first national health system to eliminate nearly all of the greenhouse gases from their facilities, the use of electricity, vehicles and supply chains for medicines and medical devices, and others by 2040, on its way to zero-emissions by 2050.

The National Health Service pumps out 4 to 5 pct of England's carbon emissions. Globally, in the 36 countries with the largest economies, healthcare sectors accounted for more than 4 pct of global carbon dioxide pollution, more than aviation or shipping, according to the release. (Source: UK National Health Service, eg24 news, Oct., 2020) Contact: UK National Health Service, Sercimon Stevens, CEO, www.nhs.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHG,  Greenhousew Gas Emissions,  

Israel
Date: 2020-10-02
In Jerusalem, the Israeli Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with Israeli ministries of economy, environment protection and finance, is reporting the launch of a $20.1 million national plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance energy efficiency.

Under the plan, industrial plants, small and medium businesses as well as local authorities will be awarded grant funding for cutting their energy consumption and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The grants will be allocated for replacing old, wasteful and expensive technologies with new cost-effective systems in various fields, such as indoor and outdoor lighting systems, air conditioning, heat pumps, compressed air systems and manufacturing machines. Grant will also be given to projects that integrate new Israeli technologies in the areas of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction. (Source: Israeli Ministry of Energy, Xinhua, October 1, 2020) Contact: Israeli Ministry of Energy, Yuval Steinitz, Minister, www.gov.il/en/departments/ministry_of_energy

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHG news,  Carbon Emissions news,  Climate Change news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Green Fuel
Date: 2020-10-02
In the UK, Green Fuels Ltd reports receipt of €86,000 ($100,000) in grant funding to support and amplify the impact of its work as a global producer of sustainable transport fuels and its work in addressing the immediate and long term challenges resulting from used cooking oil and other organic wastes collection for biofuel production on the global pandemic.

"Green Fuels has been pioneering the technology and chemistry of sustainable fuels since 2003. Waste-derived biodiesel is one of the most carbon-efficient fuels available, and Green Fuels equipment has displaced an estimated 6.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions (CO2 equivalents) to date. The company was founded from a desire to transition from the use of fossil fuels into net zero carbon fuels -- a mission that is embedded into everything we do," according to the company website. (Source: Green Fuels Ltd., PR Website, Sept., 2020) Contact: Green Fuels , James Hygate, CEO, +44 333 011 8522, www.greenfuels.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel news,  Biodiesel news,  

C40 Cities
Date: 2020-09-30
In New York, 12 of the world's most influential cities representing over 36 million residents have signed on to C40 Groups Divesting from Fossil Fuels, Investing in a Sustainable Future declaration. The declaration champions fossil fuel-free, green finance as a key strategy for rebuilding equitable, sustainable urban economies and increasing resilience against future crises. Signatories pledge to use their financial might to promote a just and clean energy transition through concrete actions at the city, national and international levels.

Cities signing on to the new declaration -- Berlin, Bristol, Cape Town, Durban, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New Orleans, New York City, Oslo, Pittsburgh, and Vancouver -- commit to build momentum for fossil-free and sustainable investment by:

Taking all possible steps to divest city assets from fossil fuel companies and increasing financial investments in climate solutions to help promote decent jobs and a just and green economy.

Calling on pension funds to divest from fossil fuel companies and increasing financial investments in climate solutions to help promote decent jobs and a just and green economy.

Advocating for fossil-free and sustainable finance by other investors and all levels of government, including by promoting the importance of strong, long-term climate policies and demanding greater transparency.

According to Energy Policy Tracker, more than $200 billion in COVID-19 recovery funds are being pledged to fossil fuels, though risky investments in coal, oil, and gas are key drivers of the climate emergency. Continued investment in fossil fuels drives emissions that endanger the Paris Climate Agreement goals, jeopardize efforts to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees C, and threaten to lock dangerous carbon emissions into economies.

The Divesting From Fossil Fuels, Investing in a Sustainable Future declaration is a critical next step towards realizing the vision for a Global Green New Deal, announced last October at the C40 World Mayors Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark. Endorsed by a broad coalition of business and labor leaders, youth activists, and civil society representatives, the Global Green New Deal reaffirms a commitment to protecting the environment, strengthening the economy, and building more equitable communities through inclusive climate action, according to the release.

C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, Inc. is a non-profit organization and is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. (Source: C40 Cities, PR, 22 Sept., 2020) Contact: C40 Cities Group, www.c40.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News C40 Cities,  Climate Change,  Renewable Energy,  

DHL Global
Date: 2020-09-30
Global maritime forwarding specialist DHL Global Forwarding has announced it will be neutralising the carbon emissions of all its LCL ocean freight shipments from the 1st January 2021 in keeping with its commitment to clean and sustainable sea freight transport and to become the first logistics service provider to offer fully climate neutral ocean freight shipments.

To that end, DHL's new "GoGreen" service allows freight forwarders to select vessels that use sustainable marine biofuel rather than the regularly used heavy bunker oil and thus reduce their carbon footprint at no additional cost. (Source: DHL, PR, Supply Chain, 29 Sept., 2020) Contact: DHL Group, www.dhl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News DHL Global,  

DHL Global
Date: 2020-09-30
Global maritime forwarding specialist DHL Global Forwarding has announced it will be neutralising the carbon emissions of all its LCL ocean freight shipments from the 1st January 2021 in keeping with its commitment to clean and sustainable sea freight transport and to offer fully climate neutral ocean freight shipments.

To that end, DHL's new "GoGreen" service allows freight forwarders to select vessels that use sustainable marine biofuel rather than the regularly used heavy bunker oil and thus reduce their carbon footprint at no additional cost. (Source: DHL, PR, Supply Chain, 29 Sept., 2020) Contact: DHL Group, www.dhl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Marine Biofuel news,  Biofuel news,  

Poland Coal
Date: 2020-09-28
In Warsaw, the Polish government and the powerful unions representing more than 80,000 workers are reporting an agreement to phase out and eliminate Polish coal mines by 2049 to enable the country to meet the EU target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Warsaw and the unions previously rejected the existing the 2050 date insisting the country's heavily coal-dependent economy needed until 2060 to completely cut its coal production and transition to a low-carbon economy. The government also expressed concern that a proposal by EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to raise the 27 member EU trading bloc's 2030 target for cutting greenhouse gas emissions from 40 to 55 pct.

Poland depends on heavily subsidized coal for 80 pct of its power needs but the industry is plagued with losses. Poland's state-owned PGG, one of Europe's largest coal companies, reported a €107 million loss in 2019 and expects dramatically larger losses in 2020. (Source: Various Media, EurActiv, 27 Sept., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Poland Coal,  Coal,  Carbon Emissions,  Paris Climate Agreement,  Carbon Emissions,  

EC
Date: 2020-09-28
Reporting from Munich, European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen has confirmed that the European Union (EU), with its "Green Deal", has committed to wide-ranging plans to direct the economy through enforcement mechanisms and a taxonomy for the "greenness" of private investment projects that, together with complementary actions by the European Central Bank, will effectively differentiate the interest rates at which European companies can borrow in the capital market.

Additionally, "the EC has shown no indication that it is willing to abandon central planning in favor of a comprehensive emissions trading system. By turning its back on the market, it exposes itself to the suspicion that its main concern is not with combating climate protection, but rather with crafting an industrial policy whose true motives and aims can only be a matter of speculation." (Source: University of Munich, Japan Times, 26 Sept., 2020) Contact: EC,University of Munich, Hans-Werner Sinn, Professor of Economics, +49 (0 89/9224-1279, Fax: +49 (0) 89/9224-1901, sinn@ifo.de, www.en.uni-muenchen.de

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  European Commission,  European Green Deal,