Southwestern Electric Power
Date: 2019-10-16
Shreveport, Louisiana-based Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO), an American Electric Power (AEP) Company, is reporting payment of a $94,987.74 incentive check to Texarkana Aluminum for an energy efficient LED lighting project at its aluminum mill in Texarkana, Texas.

As part of the upgrade, the mill installed more than 200 LED fixtures. The SWEPCO incentive will help cover some of the upfront costs of this project, which has an expected payback period of less than two years with an annual savings of roughly $82,000.

This project is part of SWEPCO's Commercial Standard Offer Program. (Source: SWEPCO, PR, 15 Oct., 2019) Contact: Southwestern Electric Power Co., Malcolm Smoak, Pres., CEO, Mike Nix, Energy Efficiency and Consumer Program Coordinator, www.swepco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Southwestern Electric Power Co.,  Energy Efficiency,  LED Light,  

American Electric Power
Date: 2019-09-11
In the Buckeye State, Columbus-based American Electric Power (AEP) reports it is cutting carbon dioxide emissions faster than anticipated and has revised its 2030 reduction target to 70 pct from 2000 levels. The company's previous target was a 60 pct reduction from 2000 levels by 2030. The company will cut carbon dioxide emissions by more than 80 pct from 2000 levels by 2050, according to a release.

To that end, AEP will further invest in renewable generation and transmission and distribution technologies to enhance efficiency, and expanded demand response and energy efficiency programs. AEP's resource plans include adding more than 8,600 megawatts (MW) of new wind and solar generation to serve the company's regulated utility customers by 2030. Between 2019 and 2023, the company plans to invest approximately $2.2 billion in contracted renewables and renewables integrated with energy storage and approximately $25 billion over the next 5 years in its transmission and distribution systems.

To date, AEP has cut its carbon dioxide emissions by 59 pct since 2000. (Source: AEP, PR, 10 Sept., 2019) Contact: AEP Clean Energy Strategy, www.aep.com/investors/ESG .

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  CO2,  Carbon Emissions ,  

AEP,City of Shelby
Date: 2019-08-07
In the Buckeye State, Shelby City Council reports the passage of three resolutions entering into an agreement with American Electric Power (AEP) for a 2.5 MW photovoltaic (PV) electric generation facility on 14 acres in Shelby (pop. 9,000 +-). The installation would incorporate "several thousand" 370-watt photovoltaic panels to generate roughly 3,500 MWh per year.

The city will be the sole consumer of the solar facility's power production. When fully online, the solar installation is expected to save the city an estimated $3 million in energy costs over 10 years. (Source: City of Shelby, Richland Source, 5 Aug., 2019) Contact: City of Shelby, John Ensman, Dir. of Utilities, 419-342-4085, www.shelbycity.oh.gov; American Electric Power, Nicholas K. Akins, Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  AEP,  

American Electric Power,Public Service Co. of Oklahoma
Date: 2019-07-17
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered American Electric Power (AEP) reports two of its companies -- Public Service Co. of Oklahoma (PSO) and Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO) -- are seeking regulatory approvals for the approximate $2 billion purchase of three Oklahoma wind projects totaling 1,485 MW.

The projects, under development by Invenergy, include a 999 MW facility being built north of Weatherford, a 287 MW facility being built southwest of Enid and a 199 MW facility being built south of Alva. Collectively, the three facilities would provide more than 5.7 million MWh of new wind energy annually to serve customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas.

AEP notes it recently added 724 MW of wind and battery generation to its contracted competitive portfolio and has proposed adding more than 9,100 MW of new wind and solar generation and nearly 2,300 MW of new natural gas generation to its regulated power plant fleet by 2030. (Source: AEP, NA Windpower, 16 July, 2019)Contact: American Electric Power, Nicholas K. Akins, Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com; Public Service Co. of Oklahoma, www.psoklahoma.com; Southwestern Electric Power Co., www.swepco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  

Virginia State Corporation Commission,Appalachian Power
Date: 2019-05-06
Further to our 5th April report, meeting in Richmond, the Virginia State Corporation Commission is reported to have approved approximately $1 billion in new spending on energy efficiency programs designed to reduce energy consumption and the need to produce and distribute additional electricity in the Old Dominion State.

The regulator approved 11 new Dominion Energy programs totaling $226 million as well as energy efficiency spending by Appalachian Power, the state's second largest electric utility. In their approval, the two companies are required to track and report the effectiveness of their programs in reducing energy consumption at a future date. (Source: Virginia State Corporation Commission, NBC29, AP, 4 May, 2019) Contact: Virginia State Corporation Commission, www.scc.virginia.gov; Appalachian Power, Don Nichols, (800)956-4237, contact@aep.com, www.appalachianpower.com; Dominion Energy, Keith Windle, VP Business Development, www.dominionenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Virginia State Corporation Commission,  Energy Efficiency,  Appalachian Power,  Dominion Energy,  

Sempra Energy
Date: 2019-04-26
Further to our Feb. 13th coverage, San Diego-based utility holding company Sempra Energy is reporting the completion of its exit from its U.S. renewables business with the sale of 7 wind farms totaling 724 MW and battery assets to Columbus, Ohio-based American Electric Power (AEP) for $1.05 billion. The transaction is the latest in a series of divestitures over the past year to raise $2.5 billion in proceeds.

In December 2018, the company completed the sale of its solar assets and battery storage development projects, along with one wind farm, to a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison for $1.6 billion. In February, it executed the sale of its non-utility U.S. natural gas storage facilities to an affiliate of ArcLight Capital Partners for $328 million in cash, marking its exit from the non-utility natural gas storage sector. The company is currently working to sell its equity interest in its South American businesses including its 83.6 pct stake in Luz del Sur S.A.A. in Peru and 100 pct stake in Chilquinta Energia S.A. in Chile.

The company said the move is consistent with a strategy to pay down debt and redeploy capital to support the growth of Sempra Energy in North America. (Source: Sempra Energy, Power Mag., 25 April, 2019) Contact: American Electric Power, Nicholas K. Akins, Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com; Sempra Energy, Jeff Martin, CEO (619) 696-2901, www.sempra.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sempra Energy,  Renewable Energy,  

Appalachian Power
Date: 2019-04-05
Further to our Jan. 30 coverage, in the Old Dominion State, Appalachian Power, along with Wheeling Power, reports it is requesting Public Service Commission of West Virginia approval for a new Economic Development Fund and changes to the company’s energy efficiency programs, including introducing two new offerings.

The new fund would be financed by a combination of a monthly customer meter charge of 12 cents, generating approximately $670,000 annually, and equal company matching funds, according to a company release.

Planned changes to the utility's energy efficiency programs are aimed at controlling electric power usage and lowering energy costs for program participants. One of the new programs -- the Low-Income Multi-Family Program -- will provide installation of measures such as energy-efficient lighting, water heating measures, appliance upgrades, HVAC replacement and maintenance, insulation and similar features in individual units of multi-family buildings, and will raise awareness and understanding of energy efficiency among participating building owners, managers and tenants.

A second new program -- the Small Business Direct Install Program -- will educate small-business owners about energy efficiency and provide financial incentives to encourage additional energy efficiency improvements. (Source: Appalachian Power, PR, Herald-Dispatch, 3 April, 2019) Contact: Appalachian Power, Don Nichols, (800)956-4237, contact@aep.com, www.appalachianpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Appalachian Power,  Energy Efficiency,  

ENERGY STAR, Honda
Date: 2019-03-08
For the 13th consecutive year, two of Honda's Marysville and East Liberty Ohio automobile manufacturing plants in have earned the US EPA ENERGY STAR certification. Honda Manufacturing of Indiana (HMIN) achieved the ENERGY STAR designation for the seventh year in a row while the Honda Anna Engine Plant (AEP) in Anna, Ohio, scored its first ENERGY STAR status.

EPA ENERGY STAR certification signifies that the facilities perform in the top 25 pct of similar facilities for energy efficiency and meet strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA. On average, ENERGY STAR certified plants consume 35 pct less energy and contribute 35 pct fewer greenhouse gas emissions than similar non-certified operations.

The ENERGY STAR label can be found on over 60 different kinds of products as well as new homes and commercial and industrial buildings. Over the past twenty years, American families and businesses have saved a total of nearly $450 billion on utility bills and prevented more than 3.1 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions with help from ENERGY STAR. (Source: Honda, EPA ENERGY STAR, Green Car Congress, 7 Mar., 2019) Contact: EPA Energy STAR, www.energystar.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News ENERGY STAR,  Energy Efficiency,  

American Electric Power,Sempra Renewables
Date: 2019-02-13
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered American Electric Power Company Inc (AEP) reports it plans to acquire Sempra Renewables LLC renewables business and its 724-MW portfolio of wind and battery storage capacity for $1.06 billion, subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and other approvals. The acquisition is based on $551 million cash, $343 million in project debt assumption, approximately $162 million in tax equity obligations plus closing and working capital adjustments.

AEP will absorb all of Sempra's shareholding in seven operational wind farms and a battery storage facility in Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota and Pennsylvania. A Q2 closing is expected. (Source: AEP, Renewables, 13 Feb., 2019)Contact: American Electric Power, Nicholas K. Akins, Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com; Sempra Energy, Inv. Relations, (619) 696-2901, www.sempra.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  AEP,  Sempra,  Wind,  Renewable Energy ,  

Appalachian Power
Date: 2019-01-30
In the Old Dominion State, Appalachian Power is touting its 2019 lineup of energy efficiency programs to help residential and business customers cut energy consumption and save on energy costs.

The new programs include: Bring Your Own "Smart" Thermostat (BYOT) Program; eScore home energy audits and savings Program; Commercial and Industrial Lighting energy efficiency Program; Commercial & Industrial non-lighting energy efficiency Standard Program; a Small Business Direct no-cost energy efficiency upgrades Install Program, and others.

Review Appalachian Power's energy efficiency program details HERE. (Source: Appalachian Power, Virginia First, 28 Jan., 2019) Contact: Appalachian Power, Don Nichols, contact@aep.com 1-800-956-4237 www.takechatgeva.com, www.appalachianpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Appalachian Power,  Energy Efficiency,  

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy
Date: 2019-01-18
Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE) is touting the launch of its SG 10.0-193 DD, the company’s first 10+ MW offshore wind turbine The 10 MW rating is made possible through a larger generator diameter, building on the proven SGRE Direct Drive generator technology. The SG 10.0-193 DD Offshore Wind Turbine features 193 m diameter rotor and 94-meter-long-blades.

The SG 10.0-193 DD turbine offers up to 30% more AEP than its predecessor, the SG 8.0-167 DD. Its 94-meter-long-blades -- almost the length as one soccer field.

A SG 10.0-193 DD prototype is expected to be installed in 2019 with a commercial market launch slated for 2022. (Source: Siemens Gamesa, PR, 17 Jan., 2019) Contact: Siemens Gamesa, Andreas Nauen, CEO Offshore Business Unit, www.siemensgamesa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy,  Wind Turbine,  Offshore Wind ,  

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2019-01-04
In the Buckeye State, the Commits $9 New Albany-Plain Local School District reports it will spend more than $900,000 on building energy efficiency and upgrades beginning this April.

As part of the program, the school board is assessing its boilers campus-wide and is working with Columbus, Ohio-based utility American Electric Power (AEP)to improve overall campus-wide energy efficiency, energy efficient lighting, HVAC controls and trimming general energy related costs. The board' aims to save $650,000 in total by June 30, of this year. (Source: New Albany-Plain Local School District, This Week Community News, 30 Dec., 2018) Contact: New Albany-Plain Local School District, Superintendent Michael Sawyers, www.napls.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Alberta
Date: 2018-11-26
On the Canadian prairies, the government of oil-soaked Alberta reports its new $200 million renewable energy project subsidy program will help rural groups or co-operatives develop small-scale, local or community renewable energy projects.

To qualify for provincial support, projects must be in the five-to-25 MW range. Funding will be sourced from the provincial carbon tax and will be paid in the form of 20-year contracts.

Qualifying applicants must demonstrate community benefits, such as revenue from electricity production, local jobs and training opportunities and meet wildlife protection and other regulatory standards. standards.

The Alberta government aims to have 5,000 MW worth of generation from renewable sources by 2030, with 7,000 MW worth of projects presently ready to go. The province will promote the program before it launches in fall 2019. The Alberta Federation of Rural Electrification Associations, as well as the Alberta Community and Co-Operative Association and Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) support the program. (Source: Alberta Climate Change Office, Western Producers, 23 Nov., 2018) Contact: Alberta Climate Change Office, Hon. Shannon Phillips, Minister, aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alberta Climate Change Office,  Shannon Phillips,  Renewable Energy,  Community Renewable Energy,  

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alberta Climate Change Office,  Shannon Phillips,  Renewable Energy,  Community Renewable Energy,  

American Electric Power
Date: 2018-11-14
In the Buckeye State, Columbus-based American Electric Power (AEP) reports it plans to invest $33 billion in capital from 2019 through 2023, $2.7 billion of which is earmarked for new renewable generation, including approximately $2.2 billion for competitive, contracted renewable projects. The company will work with regulators to identify additional opportunities to add renewable generation in its regulated jurisdictions.

AEP operates the nation's largest electricity transmission system to deliver power to nearly 5.4 million regulated customers in 11 states. The company also has approximately 32,000 MW of generating capacity, including 4,340 MW of renewable energy. (Source: AEP, WindPower, Nov., 2018)Contact: American Electric Power, Nicholas K. Akins, Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  Renewable Energy,  

Kentucky Power,AEP
Date: 2018-10-19
In the Bluegrass State, the Ashland headquartered utility Kentucky Power, an operating company of Columbus, Ohio's American Electric Power (AEP), reports it is seeking to add up to 20 MW of solar energy to meet growing customer interest in solar options and to diversify its electric generation mix.

To that end, the utility is seeking bids for solar resources to be purchased. Qualifying projects must be located within Kentucky Power's service territory and be operational by Dec. 31, 2021.

Currently, Kentucky Power generates about 81 pct of 2,240 megawatts of electricity from coal and about 19 pct with natural gas. (Source: Kentucky Power, Sacramento Bee, 17 Oct., 2018) Contact: Kentucky Power, www.kentuckypower.com; AEP, Nicholas K. Akins, Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News AEP,  Kentucky Power,  Renewable Energy,  Solar,  AEP,  

Alberta Environment Minister Shannon Phillips
Date: 2018-09-28
Following up on our June 13th coverage, on the Canadian Prairies, the Province of Alberta Minister of the Environment, Hon. Shannon Phillips, has announced an expansion of the government's Non-Profit Energy Efficiency Transition (NEET) program which is overseen by Energy Efficiency Alberta, a government agency.

Currently through NEET, non-profits can receive audits to identify opportunities to save on energy costs. The audit phase of the program wrapped up this week. The next step in the program will see the government working with contractors to purchase and install the needed upgrades, which could be everything from LED lighting to new furnaces or solar energy systems.

Details and financial projections for the upgrade portion of the program are expected to be released in the near future. be released in the coming weeks. (Source: CBC News, Alberta Environment Contact: Alberta Environment Minister Hon. Shannon Phillips, aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office; Energy Efficiency Alberta, Jessica Shumlich, Program Manager, (403) 815-4876, www.efficiencyalberta.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency Alberta,  Energy Efficiency,  

AEP Ohio
Date: 2018-09-23
AEP Ohio has announced a commitment to eventually double wind and solar generation in Ohio. Supporters say the plan sends a signal around the country to clean energy companies. AEP Ohio’s proposal is the next step in their plan to move away from coal power. Neil Waggoner is with the Sierra Club, which agreed to support the plan in 2015. Waggoner says AEP’s project and the state’s renewable energy standards are a signal to solar and wind developers. “If we just get out of our own way we’re gonna see more commitments like what AEP is trying to do and we’re gonna see Ohio clean energy just really take off," Waggoner said. Ohio lawmakers have tried repealing the standards mandating wind and solar power. A bill to change those standards could come up again after the November election. (Source: AEP, WKSU, 22 Sept., 2018)

More Low-Carbon Energy News AEP Ohio news,  Renewable Energy news,  

American Electric Power
Date: 2018-07-30
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered American Electric Power (AEP) reports it is pulling the plug on its planned 2,000-MW Wind Catcher wind farm, which would have spanned two counties in the Oklahoma panhandle and delivered power to customers in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana. The move came a day after the Texas PUC denied approval of the project, which had already won approval from regulators in Arkansas and Louisiana. A decision was pending before an Oklahoma regulatory panel.

The completed project would have included the construction of 800 wind turbines and a 360-mile transmission line from the wind farm to Tulsa, where the company said the existing electric grid would deliver power from the farm to customers. (Source: American Electric Power, Arkansas OnLine, Various Media, 27 July, 2018) Contact: American Electric Power, Nicholas K. Akins, AEP Pres., (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  Wind,  Wind Catcher,  

AEP Corp,Invenergy
Date: 2018-06-22
In the Buckeye State, Columbus-based utility American Electric Power (AEP) is reporting its proposed $4.5 billion Wind Catcher Energy Connection project has landed required approvals from Louisiana and Arkansas -- two of the four states it will ultimately serve. Texas and Oklahoma have not yet approved the proposed 2,000-MW wind farm to be constructed in Texas and in Cimaroon County on the Oklahoma panhandle.

The project would be developed by Chicago-based Invenergy LLC and will incorporate about 800 wind turbines supplied by GE Renewable Energy. Invenergy would sell the farm upon completion, expected in in 2020. AEP's Southwestern Electric Power Co. will own 70 pct of the project and Public Service Company of Oklahoma will hold the remaining 30 pct. Southwestern Electric Power Co. says the project will save customers $4 billion over its 25-year life, compared to what it would cost to buy the power on the open market, noting no fuel costs, tax credit benefits and cost-efficient delivery thanks to the dedicated power line. It serves 231,000 customers in Louisiana. AEP serves 5.4 million customers in 11 states. It has 33,000 megawatts of energy generation capacity, including 4,200 megawatts of solar energy as well as 224,000 miles of distribution lines. (Source: AEP, Columbus Business First, 20 June, 2018)Contact: AEP, (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com Southwestern Electric Power, www.swepco.com; Invenergy, Invenergy Wind LLC, (312) 224-1400, https://invenergyllc.com/what-we-do/wind

More Low-Carbon Energy News Invenergy ,  AEP,  American Electric Power,  Wind,  

Public Service Company of Oklahoma
Date: 2018-03-16
American Electric Power (AEP) subsidiary Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) reports it has reached an agreement with Walmart Inc. on the $4.5-billion Wind Catcher project which includes the acquisition of a 2,000-MW wind farm in the Oklahoma Panhandle from Invenergy. The wind farm and a power line to the Tulsa area are currently under construction. PSO's share of the investment is $1.36 billion.

PSO expects Wind Catcher to save its customers around $2 billion over its 25-year lifetime. (Source: Walmart, Renewables, 12 Mar., 2018) Contact: Walmart, Mark Vanderhelm, VP Energy, (800) 925-6278, https://corporate.walmart.com/contact-us; Public Service Company of Oklahoma, (888) 216-3523, www.psoklahoma.com; Invenergy Wind LLC, (312) 224-1400, https://invenergyllc.com/what-we-do/wind

More Low-Carbon Energy News Walmart,  Wind,  Public Service Company of Oklahoma,  Invenergy,  ,  

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2018-03-07
On the Canadian Prairies, Alberta Environment Minister Hon. Shannon Phillips reports the government will increase the Business, Non-Profit and Institutional Energy Savings Program maximum hospitality industry energy efficiency rebate from $60,000 to $100,000. The program is also adding 23 new eligible products used specifically by the hospitality industry, Rebates for lighting, water-heating and HVAC products have also been expanded and the application process simplified.

During the first eight months of the program, more than 1,200 participants received a total of $3.5 million in rebates for an average of $2,600 per project. These projects represent over $11 million that's been invested in upgrading facilities across the province and that investment will save 40,000 gigajoules of energy each year," according to the Ministry's release. (Source: Alberta Environment Minister , Global News, 5 Mar., 2018) Contact: Alberta Environment Minister, aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Energy Efficiency rebate,  ,  

American Electric Power
Date: 2018-02-16
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered utility giant American Electric Power (AEP) has announced it will pursue a strategy to reduce its CO2 emissions by 60 pct from 2000 levels by 2030, and 80 pct from 2000 levels by 2050. To meet its goal, AEP plans to increase its investments in renewable generation and advanced technologies and increase its use of natural gas for power generation. It will also invest heavily in transmission and distribution systems to enhance efficiency as well as in expanded demand response and energy efficiency programs.

According to Nicholas K. Akins, AEP Chairman, President and CEO, "The strategy doesn't mean AEP will become a purely clean energy company. We believe in an 'all of the above' strategy, which includes investments in energy efficiency, renewables, natural gas, nuclear, hydro-electric and pumped storage and coal." AEP notes it has "factored future carbon regulations into the company's evaluation of generation resource options for many years and will continue to do so."

Since 2000, AEP has slashed CO2 emissions by 44 pct. Only 47 pct of AEP's generation fleet is coal-fired, compared to 70 pct in 2005 while renewable capacity is up from 4 pct in 2005 to 13 pct today. (Source: AEP, Feb., 2016)Contact: AEP, (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  Carbon Emissions,  

American Electric Power
Date: 2018-02-09
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered American Electric Power (AEP) has released a report outlining the company's strategy for a clean energy future.

The report outlines a business strategy that will lead to reductions in CO2 emissions from its power plants of 60 pct from 2000 levels by 2030 and 80 pct from 2000 levels by 2050 through increased investments in renewable energy and other initiatives.

Specifically, AEP plans to add 3,065 MW of solar generation and 5,295 MW of wind generation to the portfolio serving its regulated utility customers by 2030. AEP's largest planned renewable energy investment is the $4.5 billion, 2,000-mw Wind Catcher Energy Connection project in Oklahoma. If approved, Wind Catcher will be the largest contiguous wind farm in the U.S. and will deliver nearly 9 million MWh of low-cost wind energy annually to AEP customers in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas. Between 2018 and 2020, the company also plans to invest approximately $1.2 billion in contracted renewables and renewables integrated with energy storage.

AEP has factored future carbon regulations into the company's evaluation of generation resource options for many years and will continue to do so. The company already has cut its carbon dioxide emissions by 44 pct since 2000.

Download AEP's Strategic Vision for a Clean Energy Future 2018 HERE. (Source: American Electric Power, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  Carbon Emiossions,  Climate Change,  Renewable Energy,  

American Electric Power
Date: 2018-02-09
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered utility giant American Electric Power (AEP) has released its Strategic Vision for a Clean Energy Future 2018 report outlining the company's strategy for a addressing climate change and a clean energy future. The strategy includes new carbon dioxide emission reduction goals , investments in renewable energy resources and advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency of the power grid.

Between 2018 and 2020, the company plans to invest approximately $1.2 billion in contracted renewables and renewables integrated with energy storage. AEP has factored future carbon regulations into its evaluation of generation resource options and has cut its carbon dioxide emissions by 44 pct since 2000.

Download AEP's Strategic Vision for a Clean Energy Future 2018 HERE. (Source: American Electric Power, Feb., 2018) Contact: AEP, (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  Carbon Emissions,  Climate Change,  Renewable Energy,  

Rockies Institute,Alberta Environment Minister
Date: 2018-02-05
On the Canadian prairies, the Alberta Environment Ministry reports it has funded a $230,000, two-year climate change education partnership between the Kainai First Nation and the Canmore-based Rockies Institute. The grant is intended to boost climate change education, research and planning in the community and to better understand climate change and how it impacts Indigenous peoples within the Blackfoot confederacy.

According to the Alberta environment minister, the Rockies Institute will design and deliver an adaptation plan that includes research and recommendations to help the community adjust to a changing environment. (Source: Rockies Institute, CBC Calgary, 2 Feb., 2018) Contact: Rockies Institute, admin@rockiesinstitute.ca, www.rockiesinstitute.ca; Alberta Environment Minister Shannon Phillips, aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  Alberta Environment Minister ,  

Solar
Date: 2018-01-26
In Katmandu, the Nepali government reports China has donated over 32,000 sets of solar power generation system to Nepal. The donated items included 32,000 sets of household solar power generation system (10Wp) and 325 sets of solar power generation system (1200Wp), battery, controller, LED bulb and case that includes a status indicator and system cable.

The solar systems will be distributed by the Alternative Energy Promotion Center (AEPC) in districts affected by a devastating earthquake in 2015, many of which are not connected to the national electric grid, Source: Xinhua, 21 Jan., 2018)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

Alberta Carbon Tax
Date: 2018-01-05
On the Canadian Prairies, oil soaked Alberta's carbon tax has increased from $20-Cdn per tonne of CO2 emissions to $30-Cdn, effective January 1, 2018. Alberta's carbon levy entered into force on January 1, 2017, at an initial rate of $20-Cdn per tonne of CO2 emissions. A $10 increase scheduled for January 1, 2018, has now entered into effect.

The Albertan levy is charged on all fuels that emit greenhouse gases when combusted. The rate is based on the amount of carbon pollution released by the fuel when it is combusted.

The Government said that revenue from the levy will continue to be invested in the province, through green infrastructure, energy efficiency, renewable energy, bioenergy, and innovation. The Government estimates that 60 pct of households will receive a full or partial carbon levy rebate in 2018. (Source:(Source: Alberta Environment Minister, Various Media, CBC News, 10 Jan., 2017)Contact: Alberta Environment Minister, Hon. Shannon Phillips, (780) 310-3773, http://aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office/default.aspx

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alberta Carbon Tax,  

Alberta Bioenergy Producers Group
Date: 2017-12-22
In oil-soaked Alberta, the provincial government reports it plans to award $63 million in grant funding over seven years to support ethanol, biodiesel, biomass power generation and other bioenergy projects province-wide. An additional $440 million will support oil sands innovation, $225 million will support new technologies that reduce emissions, $240 million will support industrial energy-efficiency projects, and $400 million in loan guarantees will be available to support investment in efficiency and renewable energy measures to reduce risk for financial institutions and make it easier for companies to invest.

The awards will come from the province's Climate Leadership Plan. (Source: Alberta Environment and Parks, Alberta Bioenergy Producers Group, Biomass Mag., Others, Dec. 20, 2017) Contact: Alberta Environment and Parks, http://aep.alberta.ca/climate-change/programs-and-services/bioenergy-producer-program.aspx; Alberta Climate Leadership Plan, www.alberta.ca/documents/climate/climate-leadership-report-to-minister.pdf

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alberta Bioenergy Producers Group,  Bioenergy,  Biofuel,  

Tendril
Date: 2017-12-18
Boulder, Colorado-based energy management specialist Tendril is touting its Orchestrated Energy platform which it says calculates a home's thermal mass, predicts consumer behavior and integrates with connected devices to create an energy dispatch schedule that reduces utility HVAC load by 85 pct during demand response events while also delivering an additional 14 pct of HVAC energy efficiency savings.

Tendril initially rolled out the platform in 15 states, including the territories of AEP's Indiana Michigan where it initially cut overall energy consumption by as much as 20 pct. (Source: Tendril, Utility Dive, Dec., 2017) Contact: Tendril Inc., Adrian Tuck, CEO, (720) 921-2100,info@tendrilinc.com, www.tendrilinc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tendril,  Energy Management,  Energy Efficiency,  

NextEra Energy Resources,AEP,Appalachian Power
Date: 2017-12-11
Following on our August 30th coverage, NextEra Energy Resources reports the commissioning of the Bluff Point Wind Energy Center in Jay County, Indiana.

The Bluff Point Wind Energy Center incorporates 57 General Electric wind turbines capable of generating almost 120 MW which is being purchased by American Electric Power. AEP will, in turn, service roughly 1 million customers of Appalachian Power in West Virginia, Tennessee and Virginia with the energy generated from Bluff Point. (Source: NextEra Energy Resources, Connerville News Examiner, 8 Dec., 2017) Contact: NextEra Energy Resources LLC, Zack Melda, Project Director, (561) 691-7171, www.nexteraenergyresources.com; Appalachian Power, www.appalachianpower.com; AEP, (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News NextEra Energy Resources,  AEP,  Appalachian Power,  

WV Energy Efficiency Program Likely to Survive PSC Challenge (Ind. Report)
Date: 2017-12-11
In Charleston, Energy Efficiency West Virginia (EEWV) reports the American Electric Power (AEP) administered West Virginia energy efficiency program is expected to survive a challenge by the state's Public Service Commission (PSC) which has questioned the program's cost effectiveness. AEP runs the program for consumers of Allegheny Energy and Wheeling Power. Energy Efficient West Virginia and AEP have indicated that they want to maintain and expand the program.

The program, which helps people reduce their power bills through better insulation, efficient lighting and similar energy efficient upgrades, is a good investment and a cost effective way to meet the customer's energy requirements, have a better and more robust electrical system, create jobs and promote economic development, according to EEWV. The utilities are also finding it cheaper to reduce demand than to build more generating capacity, which saves money, even for ratepayers who don't participate in these programs, EEWV added. The program is largely the result of proposals made by EEWV during PSC consideration of a 2009 rate increase. (Source: EEWV, Public News Service WV, 11 Dec., 2017) Contact: AEP, Energy Efficiency West Virginia, www.appalachianpower.com; Public Service Commission of West Virginia, www.psc.state.wv.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Electric Power,  ,  Energy Efficiency,  

Alberta Environment Minister
Date: 2017-12-08
In Calgary, the Alberta Environment Minister the Hon. Shannon Phillips has announced the oil-soaked province is setting aside close to $1.4 billion from climate levies to help industry reduce carbon emissions.

The funding, spread over seven years, is intended to encourage industries to invest in new technologies, stay competitive and create jobs.

Of the total funds, the oilsands industry will receive $440 million to update and upgrade facilities so they can better meet new provincial and federal guidelines for large emitters. A further $240 million will go to industrial energy efficiency, which will be available to a range of sectors including agriculture, manufacturing and energy. The plan also sets aside $400 million in loan guarantees for climate reduction programs, reducing the cost and challenges for businesses to fund projects. Industries of all kinds will be able to apply for a further $225 million for carbon reduction innovations, including $80 million to Emissions Reduction Alberta and $145 million for the Climate Change Innovation and Technology Framework. (Source: Alberta Environment Minister, CTV, 5 Dec., 2017)Contact: Alberta Environment Minister, Hon. Shannon Phillips, (780) 310-3773, http://aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office/default.aspx

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  Alberta Environment Minister ,  

Whiffle University of Technology
Date: 2017-11-29
A consortium of Dutch organizations led by weather forcasting specialist Whiffle, reports it is developing the Dutch Offshore Wind Atlas (DOWA, an offshore wind industry resource containing accurate North Sea winds data and other information.

The rationale behind the DOWA project is that weather related uncertainties are a major cost driver of offshore wind energy. Consequently, numerical weather prediction (NWP) models are crucial to create resource assessments and annual energy production (AEP) estimates, as well as short-term trading, wind farm design, and other applications.

The consortium includes Whiffle -- a Delft University spinoff company , the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) and the Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN). (Source: Whiffle Maritime Journal, 24 Nov., 2017) Contact: Whiffle Remco Verzijlbergh, Co-founder and Director of Operations, www.weatherfinecasting.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Offshore Wind,  

Battelle, AEP
Date: 2017-11-01
In the Buckeye State, the Columbus-based Battelle Memorial Institute -- a private nonprofit applied science and technology development company -- is reporting the conclusion of one of the first tests for geologic storage of carbon dioxide at a commercial, coal-fired power plant at the American Electric Power (AEP) Mountaineer Plant in New Haven, West Virginia.

The carbon capture and storage (CCS) research project, which began in 2002, was supported by the United States DOE National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL). Based on the positive findings from the exploratory well drilling and seismic survey, AEP decided in 2007 to proceed with a 20 MW pilot test facility, with on-site CO2 capture, compression, transport, and injection. Battelle was then hired by AEP to continue providing geologic CCS expertise followed by a post-injection monitoring and site closeout phase ending in 2017.

It was the first CCS project at a working coal-fired power plant, it was funded primarily by private sources and helped establish the technical viability of CCS to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power plants, and to store carbon dioxide in geologic layers with limited prior data.

The project demonstrated the full life-cycle, from inception, characterization well-drilling to find suitable storage zones, reservoir analysis, integration with pilot-scale system for a CO2 supply, injection, storage assessment, monitoring and final close-out in 2017. (Source: Battelle, PR. 28 Oct., 2017) Contact: Battelle, Katy Delaney, (614) 424-7208, delaneyk@battelle.org, www.battelle.org; AEP, Matt Usher, Director of New Technology Development & Policy Support, (800) 672-2231, www.aepohio.com; Midwest Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership, www.mrcsp.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News CCS,  CO2,  Battelle,  AEP,  

AEP OnSite Partners,NYSERDA
Date: 2017-10-20
In the Empire State, AEP OnSite Partners, owner of a new solar array with 7,752 ground-mounted PV panels at the Madison County landfill, reports it will sell 100 pct of the facility's power production to the county under the terms of a 25-year PPA. The solar power is expected to run both the county office building and the county jail, saving more than $3 million over the 25 years, according to a press release.

The project was funded through a $974,616 award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) NY-Sun Competitive PV program. Madison County is not invested in the project. (Source: AEP OnSite Partners, Observer-Dispatch Oct 19, 2017] Contact: Madison County Buyea Landfill, https://wastebits.com; AEP OnSite Partners, http://aep.com/about/majorbusinesses/aepenergypartners; NYSERDA, John B. Rhodes, Pres., CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  AEP OnSite Partners,  NYSERDA,  

AG Processing
Date: 2017-08-28
AG Processing Inc. (AGP) is reporting the completion of its previously announce expansion of its soybean biodiesel production facility in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa. The expansion doubled the 1996 vintage plant's production capacity from 30 to 60 MMgy. The biodiesel expansion was in concert with construction of co-op's new on-site soybean oil refinery which supplies feed stock to the biodiesel plant.

AGP is the largest farmer-owned cooperative represents over 250,000 soybean farmers from 16 states and Canadian provinces. AGP operates nine soybean processing plants including six plants in Iowa, located at Eagle Grove, Emmetsburg, Manning, Mason City, Sergeant Bluff, and Sheldon. Other AGP processing plants are in Dawson, Minnesota, St. Joseph, Missouri, and Hastings, Nebraska. AEP operates three biodiesel production facilities with installed capacity totaling 150 MMgy. (Source: AG Processing, Biodiesel Mag, 25 Aug., 2017) Contact: AG Processing, (800) 798-4282, www.agp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Soybean Biodiesel,  AG Processing,  

Quanta Services,American Electric Power
Date: 2017-08-02
Houston-headquartered Quanta Services, Inc. reports it has been selected by American Electric Power (AEP) to provide turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) solutions for the approximate 350 mile Wind Catcher Generation Tie Line. The 765kV single circuit power line will run between Guymon and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and two new substations.

Upon completion, the Wind Catcher Tie Line will deliver energy from the Wind Catcher wind farm in western Oklahoma to customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas.

Subject to regulatory and other approvals, the work is expected to get underway in late 2018 for 2020 completion. (Source: Quanta Services, Inc., PR, 31 July, 2017) Contact: Quanta Services, Duke Austin, Pres., CEO, (713) 341-7260, www.quantaservices.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Quanta Services,  American Electric Power,  Wind Catcher,  

Invenergy
Date: 2017-07-31
In Oklahoma, Invenergy is developing the world's second largest wind farm -- the 2,000 MW Wind Catcher and an accompanying 350-mile high-voltage transmission line. Upon completion, the massive $4.5 billion installation, which will utilize General Electric 2.5 MW wind turbines, will be sold to Columbus, Ohio-headquartered American Electric Power. (Source: Invenergy, MotelyFool, 29 July, 2017)Contact: Invenergy, Michael Mulcahey, Business Development Manager, (312) 224-1400, www.invenergyllc.com; Ameriscan Electric Power, (614) 716-1000, www.aep.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Invenergy,  Wind,  American Electric Power,  

Greensmith Energy
Date: 2017-04-07
Herndon, Virginia-headquartered energy storage software specialist Greensmith Energy is reporting the installation of its GEMS software platform at an existing American Electric Power (AEP) energy storage site, enabling it to offer new services including qualifying for the PJM frequency regulation market.

Greensmith's software upgrade enhanced the safety and reliability of AEP's sodium sulphur battery energy storage system which had been used as a backup system for AEP's distribution network in the region. The upgrade also enabled the 2MW / 14MWh West Virginia system to pass PJM's qualification tests with a high performance score on par with lithium-ion battery systems purpose-built for frequency regulation applications. In August, 2016, AEP, one of the country's largest electric utilities, made a strategic investment in Greensmith. (Source: Greensmith, Bus.Wire, AEP, 4 April, 2017) Contact: Greensmith Energy, John Jung, President and CEO, Mallory Sass, Marketing, (408) 966-5950, msass@greensmithenergy.com, www.greensmithenergy.com; AEP, Ram Sastry, Vice President, Infrastructure and Business Continuity, , (800) 672-2231, www.aepohio.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Greensmith Energy,  Energy Storage,  American Electric Power,  Lithium-Ion Battery,  

University of Calgary
Date: 2017-03-27
In oil soaked Alberta, the University of Calgary reports that province's new carbon tax will likely drive up the school's utility and energy costs by $3.5 million in the 2018-2019 school year. The higher costs are attributed to increased utility, heating and gasoline costs for the university's campus and 174 vehicle fleet.

Alberta's carbon tax is currently set at $20 per tonne of carbon emissions but will rise to $30 per tonne in 2018 and jump to $50 per tonne in 2022. Under the Alberta Climate Leadership Plan, institutions that emit over 100,000 tpy of greenhouse gases are categorized as "high emitters" and eligible for subsidies to maintain competitiveness in the province's energy sector and other carbon-intensive industries. The university's heating and cooling plant alone accounted for 65,500 tonnes of carbon emissions in 2014. (Source: University of Calgary, The Gauntlet, 24 Mar., 2017)Contact: University of Calgary, Bart Becker, Facilities VP, (403) 220-2043, bbecker@ucalgary.ca, www.ucalgary.ca; Alberta Environment Minister, Hon. Shannon Phillips, (780) 310-3773, http://aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office/default.aspx

More Low-Carbon Energy News University of Calgary,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Tax,  Alberta Carbon Tax,  

Utilidata,American Electric Power
Date: 2017-03-06
Providence, R.I.-headquartered energy security and efficiency software specialist Utilidata, Inc. is reporting a new project that will delivery energy savings to American Electric Power (AEP) customers in Ohio through Utilidata's patented optimization technology that captures real-time, apparently random signals from the electric grid.

As part of AEP Ohio's efforts to expand its use of smart grid technology, the company will deploy Utilidata's AdaptiVolt™ technology on 160 circuit of the electric system throughout Ohio. The technology leverages real-time information from the distribution grid to optimize the delivery of electric power and save energy as electricity travels from substations through the electric distribution system.

The AdaptiVolt™ technology is expected to save AEP Ohio customers 235,390 MWh annually -- the equivalent of $210 million in overall bill savings over 15 years. In addition to its work with AEP, Utilidata has partnered with major utilities across the country, including National Grid, Pacific Gas & Electric, Ameren Illinois, and Vectren. (Source: Utildata, 2 Mar., 2017) Contact: Utilidata, Josh Brumberger, CCO, (401) 383-5800, info@utilidata.com, www.utilidata.com; American Electric Power Ohio, www.aepohio.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Utilidata,  American Electric Power,  Energy Software,  

Alberta
Date: 2017-02-13
In oil soaked Alberta, the Environment Minister Hon. Shannon Phillips (NDP) reports the provincial government is doling out $60 million from its carbon tax revenues to help bioenergy producers in the province. The money will support 500 direct jobs in an industry it says powers the equivalent of 200,000 homes and contributes $800 million to the provincial economy.

The money is short-term funding to "keep operations going" while it looks at ways to keep the sector sustainable in the long run. Under the program, producers receive credits for their products. Those producing first-generation biofuels, for example, will receive $0.10 per litre for the first 150 million litres produced. That drops to $0.06 per litre for anything over 150 million litres. In 2006, the then-Progressive-Conservative government offered $239 million to the industry. (Source: Gov't. of Alberta, Press Release, CBC, 9 Feb., 2017) Contact: Alberta Environment Minister, Hon. Shannon Phillips, (780) 310-3773, http://aep.alberta.ca/

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alberta,  Bioenergy,  Biofuel,  Environment Minister Shannon Phillips ,  

Energy Efficiency Alberta
Date: 2017-01-25
On the Canadian Prairies, the Alberta Environment Minister reports that Energy Efficiency Alberta, a Crown agency launched last fall, will be in charge of designing and delivering a series of provincial energy efficiency initiatives being launched in March and early April. The programs are based on the recommendations of a seven-person advisory panel.

The first program will install low-cost, energy efficiency products such as LED lights, smart power bars, low-flow shower heads and aerators in single-family homes and multi-family dwellings at all income levels, at no charge.

A second program offers cash incentives to encourage individuals to purchase and install energy efficient appliances and electronics through online, mail-in and point-of-sale rebates.

The third program is targeted towards businesses and non-profits to reduce their emissions and energy use by offering incentives on products and installation of energy-saving lighting, heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and water heating. (Source: Alberta Environment Minister Shannon Phillips, CBC, 23 Jan., 2017)Contact: Alberta Environment Minister, Hon. Shannon Phillips, (780) 310-3773, http://aep.alberta.ca/about-us/ministers-office/default.aspx; Energy Efficiency Alberta, www.alberta.ca/energy-efficiency-alberta

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency Alberta,  Energy Efficiency,  Shannon Phillips,  LED Light,  Energy Efficiency Incentives,  Energy Efficiency Rebates,