UPS
Date: 2019-10-11
In Atlanta, global delivery giant UPS is reporting plans to invest $450 million in the purchase of more than 6,000 CNG and RNG capable natural gas-powered trucks beginning in 2020 and running through 2022. The new vehicles will be equipped with CNG fuel systems provided Agility Fuel Solutions.

Vehicles equipped with CNG fuel systems can interchangeably use RNG and conventional natural gas. UPS has agreed to purchase 230 million gallon equivalents of RNG over the next seven years, making the company the largest consumer of RNG in the transportation industry.

Over the past decade, UPS has invested more than $1 billion in alternative fuel, advanced technology vehicles and fueling stations to help meet its target of reducing its global ground operations greenhouse gas emissions by 12 pct by 2025. (Source: UPS, PR, 9 Oct., 2019) Contact: UPS, 404-828-6000, www.ups.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News UPS,  Renewable Natural Gas,  Compressed Natural Gas,  RNG,  CMG,  

Israel Institute of Technology
Date: 2019-09-18
Researchers at the Israel Institute of Technology (Technion) are reporting development of an efficient, inexpensive, environmentally-friendly and safe hydrogen (H2) production technology.

Currently, most hydrogen production is derived from fossil fuel, and its production involves processes that emit carbon dioxide (CO2) -- which accelerates global warming. The main alternative so far is water electrolysis, where two electrodes -- anode and cathode -- are placed in alkaline or acid enriched water that increases conductivity. In response to passing an electrical current between the electrodes, the water molecules (H2O) are broken down into their chemical elements, such that hydrogen gas (H2) is produced near the cathode and oxygen (O2) is produced near the anode.

The energy efficiency of electrolysis is only about 75 pct and requires high electricity consumption. The new Technion E-TAC water splitting technology, improves hydrogen production efficiency to 98.7 pct and significantly reduces CO2 emissions.

Worldwide, about 65 million tpy of hydrogen is produced worth about $130 billion. (Source: Israel Institute of Technology, China.org.cn, Xinhua, 15 Sept., 2019) Contact: Israel Institute of Technology, www.technion.ac.il

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hydrogen,  Alternative Fuel,  

Alternative Fuel
Date: 2019-09-13
In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania officials report the Keystone State is participating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's Alternative Fuel Corridors program aimed at reducing electric vehicle range anxiety by filling in charging station gaps and increasing the availability CNG, propane, ethanol and other alternative fuels outside its major cities.

The Alternative Fuel Corridors program was created in 2015 under the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act which authorized $305 billion through 2020 to make infrastructure upgrades, including a provision to designate national road corridors for electric vehicle charging and alternative fuels fueling stations. More than 135,000 miles of highway in 46 states and Washington D.C. are presently in various stages of participation in the program.

Pennsylvania, which has designated 1,813 miles of Alternative Fuel Corridors, is also participating in the Transportation Climate Initiative, a regional collaboration among 12 Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states and Washington D.C. working to reduce transportation carbon emissions. (Source: Pennsylvania Dept. of Transportation, Energy News, 12 Sept., 2019) Contact: Transportation Climate Initiative, www.transportationandclimate.org/content/about-us; Alternative Fuels Corridors, www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/alternative_fuel_corridors

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  

American Public Transit Association
Date: 2019-09-11
The American Public Transit Association (APTA) reports the share of conventional diesel buses in public transit fleets dropped from 70 pct to 42 pct and were replaced with alternative fuels -- CNG, LNG, Biodiesel -- and advanced hybrid drive-trains powered vehicles in 2017 and 2018.

In the ten-year period from 2008 to 2018, natural gas and diesel hybrid drive-trains have replaced the greatest share of diesel buses followed by biodiesel, propane, hydrogen and electric. (Source: American Public Transportation Association, 2019 Public Transportation Fact Book, Washington, DC, April 2019, Green Car Congress, 10 Sept., 2019) Contact: American Public Transit Association, (202) 496-4324, www.apta.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  Biofuel,  CNG,  

Hydrogen Fuel
Date: 2019-09-11
South Korean automaker Hyundai is reporting the opening of the world's first hydrogen transportation fuel refilling station in the complex of the National Assembly in Seoul. The facility will be operated by Hydrogen Energy Network (HyNet).

HyNet, new Special Purpose Company (SPC) and a joint venture (JV) between auto manufacturer Hyundai a dozen other leading industrial companies, aims to expand the hydrogen fueling infrastructure in South Korea by installing 100 stations by 2022 and to operate them until 2029.

The city of Seoul also plans to build 11 hydrogen station within the capital city by 2022 and to provide more than 3,000 units of fuel cell electric vehicles by the same year. (Source: Hyundai, The Korea Herald/Asia News Network , 10 Sept., 2019) Contact: HyNet, www.nelhydrogen.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hydrogen,  Alternative Fuel,  

University of Idaho,USAF
Date: 2019-09-06
In Moscow, Idaho, University of Idaho and U.S. Air Force (USAF) researchers partnered to study a jet fuel additive report finding a substance which lowers the freezing point and improves the performance of jet fuel. The additive also cleans the fuel tank, adds antistatic properties to the fuel and begins to freeze at minus 58 degrees Celsius. Jet A, the most commonly used jet fuel, freezes solid at minus 40 degrees Celsius, the researchers stated.

The substance the team is studying as a jet fuel additive is entirely made of biological material. This makes the additive carbon neutral -- it continues the carbon cycle instead of adding excess carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. Initially, the team was working to create a jet fuel, not an additive.

. The researchers are participating in an AFWERX grant program and have been awarded $25,000 to continue their research. (Source: University of Idaho Argonaut , 5 Sept., 2019)Contact: Univ. of Idaho, 208-885-6111, www.uidaho.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Jet Fuel,  Alternative Fuel,  USAF,  

Rice University
Date: 2019-09-06
In Houston, researchers at Rice University report they've developed a cleaner and more efficient process to turn CO2 into a feedstock for chemicals and fuel -- including ethanol and propanol -- for electric power generation without using oil, natural gas or coal. Researchers developed an electrolyzer that uses carbon dioxide and electricity from renewable sources to produce purified, high concentrations of formic acid, a feedstock in the petrochemical industry for various products.

Typically, producing liquid fuel with an electrolyzer is costly and energy-intensive, since the process requires mixing CO2 in a liquid electrolyte, such as salty water, to conduct electricity. At the end of the reaction, the salts have to be removed from the end product, which takes more energy and money. The Rice research team was able to eliminate the need for the salt by using solid, highly conductive fibers to conduct the electricity. As a result, the end product is a purer fuel and cheaper to produce.

Using CO2 to produce liquid fuels could allow more power to be stored in less space. Formic acid can produce 1,000 times the energy of the same volume of hydrogen gas. Similarly, the process can provide a use for excess energy generated by renewable energy sources, providing the electricity to power the electrolyzer to create fuels. In essence, the excess energy is being stored as a new product. The electrolyzer could also be used to create ethanol and propanol fuels. (Source: Rice University, Houston Chronicle, 5 Sept., 2019) Contact: Rice University, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineer Haotian Wang, Lead Researcher, 713-348-0000, htwang@rice.edu, chbe.rice.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News CO2,  Carbon Dioxide,  Rice University,  Alternative Fuel,  Ethanol,  Propanol,  

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Date: 2019-08-28
In London, the UK government reports £300 million will be spent on the development of "green" transportation.

As part of the initiative, five new transport research networks will each receive £5 million for their work developing cleaner fuels and other tech innovations to reduce emissions and improve air quality.

The new transport research networks will be led by the University of Birmingham, the University of Leeds, the University of Durham, Cardiff University and University College London with funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). (Source: Air Quality News, 27 Aug., 2019) Contact: Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, +44 0 1793 444000, www.epsrc.ukri.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Clean Fual,  Alternative Fuel,  Clean Transportation ,  

Comtech Energy, Kraus Global
Date: 2019-08-23
Toronto-based compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling infrastructure developer ComTech Energ reports acquisition of a controlling interest in Winnipeg-headquartered alternative fuels dispenser manufacturer Kraus Global Ltd.

ComTech designs, builds and maintains CNG fueling infrastructure across Canada under the "Swift Fuel Solutions" moniker,

Kraus designs and manufactures transportation fuel dispensers, components and electronics for various types of alternative fuels. More than 6,000 Kraus dispensers have been installed in over 30 countries around the world. (Source: ComTech Energy, Yahoo, 22 Aug., 2019) Contact: ComTech Energy, www.comtechenergy.ca; Kraus Global, www.krausglobal.com.

More Low-Carbon Energy News CNG,  Alternative Fuels,  

Rosneft Deutschland,BP,Aviation Initiative for Renewable Energy in Germany
Date: 2019-08-02
The Aviation Initiative for Renewable Energy in Germany (AIREG) reports Berlin-based Rosneft Deutschland and BP Europa have become the organizations newest members.

AIREG aims to promote the research, production and usage of sustainable aviation fuels to reduce carbon emissions in aviation through the use of alternative fuels. AIREG members include universities, research institutions, plant manufacturers and operators, petroleum companies, engine and aircraft manufacturers, airports and airlines and others.

Rosneft Deutschland currently produces around 300,000 tpy of jet fuel annually and implements into-plane aviation fuel supply in Munich, Berlin-Tegel, and Berlin-Schonefeld airports. The Russian oil company subsidiary currently blends over 400,000 tonnes of biofuels annuals across three refineries for use in the transportation sector.

BP subsidiary BP Europa is committed to developing and commercializing sustainable aviation fuel to help its customers meet the International Air Transport Association target of a 50 pct reduction in carbon emissions by 2050, compared to 2005 levels. (Source: BP, Biofuels Int'l, 30 July, 2019) Contact: Rosneft Deutschland, +49 30 700142500, www.rosneft.de; BP Europa, Jurgen Kuper, Air BP Gen. Mgr., www.bp.com/en/global/bp-europa-se.html; Aviation Initiative for Renewable Energy in Germany, www.aireg.de/en/home-en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sustainable Fuel,  Aviation Biofuel,  

Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works
Date: 2019-07-31
Previously this week in Washington, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced the America's Transportation Infrastructure Act of 2019 which authorizes $287 billion in transportation funding over five years. The funding includes $1 billion in grant funding for electric vehicle charging and alternative fuels fueling facilities. The grant funds would be drawn from the federal Highway Trust Fund, which is financed by federal fuel taxes and related excise taxes, according to a statement from the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW).

On Tuesday, the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) and the Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America (SIGMA) noted that current fueling locations -- such as the more than 153,000 U.S. convenience stores -- represent the "most logical option" for locating alternative fuel infrastructure. (Source: Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, RigZone, 30 July, 2019) Contact: Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, www.epw.senate.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fue,  

Just Biodiesel
Date: 2019-07-19
In the Land Down Under, Just Biodiesel Pty Ltd. is reporting the re-launch of the 13.2 million gpy biodiesel production plant at Barnawatha, Victoria State, formerly owned by Australian Renewable Fuels (ARF) and Biodiesel Producers (BPL).

The plant processes locally sourced tallow and used cooking oil into biodiesel and is now supplying B5 and B20 fuel through distribution partners Refuelling Solutions and Viva Energy. The company also plans to begin exporting its product to the U.S. market in California in August.

The reopening of the formerly bankrupt plant is seen as a possible renaissance for the low-carbon alternative fuel which fell out of favour earlier in the decade due to falling conventional diesel prices, new federal governments excise of biofuels and the hangover from reliability and quality issues among some suppliers. (Source: Just Biodiesel, PR, ATN, 18 July, 2019) Contact: Justr Biodiesel, Greg Boyall,General Manager, +61 0401 700 543, greg.boyall@justbiodiesel.com.au, www.justbiodiesel.com.au

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  

Climate Change
Date: 2019-07-17
Last month in the UK, sfter declaring a "Climate Emergency" the Welsh city of Swansea's pension fund management reports it is moving £500 million of it £2 billion pension fund to Blackrock's ACS World Low Carbon Equity Tracker Fund -- a low-carbon index by the end of this month, July, 2019.

The Swansea City and Council Pension Fund, the largest in Wales, is the latest local authority pension fund to divest from fossil fuels, with plans to reduce its exposure by up to 50 pct by 2022. The fund seeks to invest in green infrastructure projects -- renewable energy, alternative fuels and clean technology -- that both optimize returns and deliver positive environmental outcomes. (Source: Swansea City and Council Pension Fund, Pensions Expert, 16 July, 2019) Contact: Swansea City and Council Pension Fund, www.swanseapensionfund.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  

Date: 2019-06-26
Chevron U.S.A. Inc. and California Bioenergy announced a joint investment in a holding company with California dairy farmers to produce and market dairy biomethane as a vehicle fuel in the state. The holding company, CalBioGas, secured funding from Chevron to build infrastructure for dairy biomethane projects in California’s San Joaquin Valley, adding to the investment from dozens of dairy farmers. Manure storage on dairy farms results in the release of methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas. CalBio brings technology, operational experience and capital to help dairy farmers build digesters and methane capture projects to convert this methane to a beneficial use as renewable natural gas. The dairy biomethane projects are designed to send dairy biogas to a centralized processing facility, where it will be upgraded to RNG and injected into the local gas utility’s pipeline. The RNG is then marketed as an alternative fuel for heavy-duty trucks, buses, and eventually off-road and farm equipment. (Source: Transport Topics, 24 June, 2019)

California Energy Commission
Date: 2019-06-17
In the Golden State, San Diego Miramar College, a public community college, is reporting receipt of a 5-year, $1.4 million contract from the California Energy Commission to develop the Alternative Fuel and Vehicle Training Enhancement Program to help participating students enter the alternative fuels, energy and technology fields.

Students will receive workplace "on the job" training for jobs focusing on reducing carbon emissions from vehicles. The program will be additional to the college's existing automotive technology program. (Source: Miramar College, City News Service, 14 June, 2019) Contact: Miramar College, www.sdmiramar.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News California Energy Commission,  Alternative Fuels,  

C-Job, Marine Fuel,Alternative Fuel
Date: 2019-06-14
According to research from the Netherlands-based ship design and engineering firm C-Job Naval Architects, ammonia can be used as an alternative marine fuel to reduce harmful maritime ship emissions. The research is based on a new concept design of an ammonia carrier powered by the gas as its own cargo.

In 2017, C-Job Naval Architects established a consortium with Proton Ventures and Enviu to investigate ammonia as marine fuel. It further joined Ammonia Energy Association in 2018 to study the topic. With the completion of this theoretical research, C-Job Naval Architects is now moving towards the next phases, which includes laboratory testing, pilot and evaluation.

C-Jobs Naval Architects noted that with the IMO aiming to reduce total annual greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50 pct by 2050 compared to 2008 and eventually fully eliminate harmful emissions, the global maritime industry will need to seriously look into renewable fuels like hydrogen, ammonia and methanol. (Source: C-Job Naval Architects, Seatrade, 13 June, 2019) Contact: C-Job Naval Architects, Niels de Vries, +31 (0)88 02 43 700, info@c-job.com, www.c-job.com; Proton Ventures, +31 10 426 7275, www.protonventures.com/en; Ammonia Energy Association, www.nh3fuelassociation.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  Amonia,  Marine Fuel,  Maritime Fuel,  Amonia,  

Clean Energy Fuels Corp., UPS
Date: 2019-05-29
Atlanta-headquartered logistics company UPS reports an agreement with Newport Beach California-based Clean Energy Fuels Corp. to purchase 170 million gallon equivalents of renewable natural gas (RNG, aka biomethane) through 2026 -- the largest commitment for use of RNG to date by any company in the US with a range of 22.5 -- 25 million gallon equivalents per year.

RNG is a key part of UPS's strategy to increase alternative fuel consumption to be 40 pct of total ground fuel purchases by 2025, supporting the the company's efforts to reduce the absolute GHG emissions of its ground fleet 12 pct by 2025.

UPS has used more than 28 million gallons of RNG in its ground fleet since 2014. Since 2009, UPS has invested more than $1 billion in alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles.(Source: UPS, PR, 28 May, 2019) Contact: UPS, Mike Casteel, UPS Director of Fleet Procurement, (404) 828-6000; Clean Energy Fuels, Andrew Littlefair, President and CEO, Ashley White, Corporate Sustainability, www.cleanenergyfuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Clean Energy Fuels Corp.,  UPS,  RNG,  

FedEx
Date: 2019-05-22
Courier and delivery service giant FedEx reports a 37 pct reduction in CO2 emissions intensity on a revenue basis across the enterprise since 2009 while revenue grew by 84 per cent.

In its Global Citizenship report, FedEx highlights the fact that it will be adding 1,000 Chanje V8100 electric vehicles to its express fleet in California and will obtain 30 pct of jet fuel from alternative fuels by 2030. In reaching its goals, the company noted it is ahead of plan for its FedEx Cares goal of investing $200 million in more than 200 global communities by 2020. (Source: FedEx, PR, 20 May, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News FedEx,  Carbon Emissions,  

Alternative Fuel
Date: 2019-05-17
According to Zion Market Research's Alternative Fuel Vehicle Market Report, the alternative fuels market could reach approximately $592.30 billion by 2022.

The report provides all-inclusive, highly-effective, and thoroughly analyzed alternative fuel vehicle market coverage at both regional and global levels, identifies industry players, products, annual sales and revenues generated, markets and marketing trends and other relevant data.

Report details and Research Report Brochure HERE. (Source: Zion Market Research, 16 May, 2019) Contact: ZMR, (855) 465-4651, sales@zionmarketresearch.com, www.zionmarketresearch.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel Vehicles,  Alternative Fuel,  

HTEC
Date: 2019-05-08
Natural Resources Canada (NRC) and the provincial Government of British Columbia is reporting $3 million in funding for two North Vancouver-based Hydrogen Technology and Energy Corporation (HTEC) hydrogen filling stations in that province. HTEC is building a hydrogen filling station network to support the rollout of fuel cell electric vehicles.

HTEC will receive $2 million funding from NRC through its Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative (EVAFIDI), and $1 million from The Government of British Columbia through its Clean Energy Vehicle Programme.

The funding is part of Canada's $182.5 million investment to develop a coast-to-coast fast-charging network for electric vehicles and to establish natural gas stations along key freight corridors and hydrogen stations in metropolitan centres. The investment will also ensure Canada-US alignment of standards for low-carbon vehicles and refuelling infrastructure. (Source: HTEC, gasworld, May, 2019) Contact: HTEC, Colin Armstrong, CEO, (604) 904-0412, www.htec.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News HTEC,  Hydrogen,  

Neste
Date: 2019-05-08
In the capital city of Tallinn, Estonian public broadcaster ERR and other media are reporting Helsinki-headquartered renewable diesel fuel producer Neste will begin offering its palm oil biodiesel to Estonian motorists in July, subject to Estonian Environment Ministry approval.

In other Neste news, the effectiveness of Neste MY Renewable Jet Fuel in reducing black carbon emissions has been recognized in a competition organized by the Climate Leadership Coalition, the Bioenergy Association of Finland, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, the Finnish Environment Institute, and the Central Association of Chimney Sweeps. According to NASA, renewable fuel has the potential to cut particulate emissions by up to 70 pct from aircraft engines. (Source: Neste, Baltic News Network, May, 2019) Contact: Neste, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com; Bioenergy Association of Finland, www.bioenergia.fi/English

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  Alternative Fuel,  Biodiesel,  

Quantum Fuel
Date: 2019-04-29
Ventura, California-based alternative fuel systems provider Quantum Fuel Systems reports it has partnered with Quantitative BioSciences (QBI) on a new dairy biogas project in Modesto, California.

Under the agreement, QBI will purchase Quantum's newest ten Virtual Pipeline trailers for use in the biogas facility funded by the California Energy Commission. The project is being developed by QBI and Fiscalini Cheese Company, and will result in the construction of a biofuels production facility to purify and compress biomethane from anaerobic digesters into transportation fuel. When fully operational, the he project is expected to produce 450 diesel gallon equivalent of CNG per day, According the Quantum, (Source; Quantum Fuel Systems, BioiEnergy Insights, 25 April, 2019) Contact: Quantum Fuel Systems, Mark Arnold, Pres., 805-308-6067, www.qtww.com; Quantitative BioSciences Inc., Natalie Cookson, CEO, https://ca.linkedin.com/company/quantitative-biosciences-inc

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biogas,  Methane,  Niomethane,  Anaerobic Digestion,  CNG,  

Neste
Date: 2019-04-24
In the Golden State, the City of Oakland and Helsinki-headquartered Neste report they are partnering to turn used restaurant cooking oils and residues into renewable diesel for use in the city's transport fleet.

According to a release, switching from petroleum diesel to renewable diesel reduces harmful emissions, reduces fuel costs and allows the city's oldest and most polluting vehicles to "go clean". The fuel is compatible with all diesel engines and cuts engine nitrogen oxides emissions by 9 pct, carbon monoxide emissions by 24 pct and fine particulate matter emissions by 33 pct. The switch to renewable diesel will also help the city fleet cut its greenhouse gas emissions by a total of 74 pct compared to fossil fuel-based diesel. (Source: Neste, Energy Live, 23 April, 2019)Contact: Neste, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com, Jeremy Baines, VP Sales, (713)407-4400, usa@neste.com, www.NesteMY.com; City of Oakland Fleet Office, www.oaklandca.gov/staff/richard-battersby

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  Alternative FUel,  

SynTech Bioenergy,Waste Resource Technologies
Date: 2019-04-24
Englewood, Colorado-based carbon-negative clean energy specialist SynTech Bioenergy is reporting an agreement with Waste Resource Technologies, Inc. (WRT) to immediately begin deploying SynTech's proprietary BioMax® power generation solution to convert green waste collected by WRT, as well as fruit processing waste from certain agricultural operations on Oahu, HI, to renewable energy. This initial project will keep an estimated 1300 tpy of waste out of landfills or otherwise kept from normal decay, the methane from which would have been 21 times more harmful to the Hawaiian environment than CO2 -- up to 8000 tons of carbon, which will be removed from the local environments through the elimination of waste transportation, elimination of methane release and displacement of fossil fired power and heat by BioMax®

Waste Resource Technologies, Inc. (WRT) is a waste collection, recovery and conversion company with operations in California and Hawaii. WRT uses technologies from leading bioenergy companies to transform waste into sustainable resources such as baseload electricity, renewable natural gas, alternative fuel pellets, and biochar. (Source: SynTech Bioenergy, PR, 23 April, 2019) Contact: SynTech Bioenergy, Wayne McFarland, Chairman and CEO, www.syntechbioenergy.com; Bioenergy Hawaii, www.bioenergyhawaii.com; Waste Resource Technologies, Kosti Shrivanian, CEO,

More Low-Carbon Energy News SynTech Bioenergy,  Waste Resource Technologies,  

TruStar Energy
Date: 2019-04-22
White Plains, New York-based compressed natural gas (CNG) and renewable natural gas fuel specialist TruStar Energy is reporting the completion and opening of its 250th CNG transportation fuel station in Plainfield, Indiana.

Continuing to provide the industry reliable and cost-effective natural gas transportation fuel, this year the company expects to build approximately 35 pct of the market’s new stations. TruStar Energy will also embark on major growth initiatives of supplying renewable natural gas, sourced from landfills and digesters, to fleets and introducing new products for smaller fleets, so they too can realize the benefits of transitioning away from diesel. (Source: TruStar Energy, PR, 22 April, 2019) Contact: TruStar Energy, www.trustarenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CNG,  Alternative Fuel,  Renewable Diesel,  

Kwik Trip, Dane County Landfill
Date: 2019-04-15
In the Badger State, LaCrosse-based convenience store and gasoline filling station chain Kwik Trip reports it plans to purchase compressed natural gas from Dane County Landfill when its $28 million biodigester-biogas production facility is completed and online later this year.

The facility is expected to supply about 3 million gpy of fossil fuels and will fuel about 80 pct Kwik Trip's fleet of delivery trucks which are already powered by CNG. The Dane County Landfill is one of several in the state that collect landfill methane gas. (Source: Kwik Trip, Wisconsin State Journal, 14 April, 2019)Contact: Kwik Trip, www.kwiktrip.com; Dane County Landfill, (608) 838-9555, https://pwht.countyofdane.com/recycle/landfill.aspx

More Low-Carbon Energy News CNG,  Alternative Fuels,  

dynaCERT
Date: 2019-04-12
Toronto-headquartered dynaCERT Inc is reporting receipt of a purchase order from Ontario-based Newport Environmental Technologies for ten (10) HG145 units of its HydraGEN™ which enhances vehicle engine combustion and tracks greenhouse gas emissions.

All vehicles that are to be outfitted with dynaCERT's HydraGEN Technology are highway tractors that on avergae consume 198,000 gpy of diesel fuel and produce over 2,000 tpy of GHGs.

According to Newport's Trevor McCagherty, "This purchase is part of our overall strategy that is looking to transform single-use plastics into synthetic fuel to be used to power our fleet and lower our carbon footprint. Our team is familiar with the benefits provided by hydrogen enhanced combustion. HydraGEN™ Technology is particularly important to us as a proven catalyst which increases the burn rate while reducing emissions and improving torque and power. As the company continues to look at developing alternative fuel mixtures, HydraGEN Technology can enhance all our endeavors including in synthetic diesel as well as in biofuels. What becomes even more interesting is the ability of the patent-pending HydraGEN Technology to measure and track GHG reduction," McCagherty added.

dynaCERT Inc. manufactures, distributes, and installs Carbon Emission Reduction Technology for use with internal combustion engines. The technology creates hydrogen and oxygen on-demand through electrolysis and supplies these through the air intake to enhance combustion, resulting in lower carbon emissions and greater fuel efficiency. (Source: dynaCERT Inc., PR 11 April, 2019) Contact: dynaCERT Inc. Jim Payne, CEO, (416) 766-9691 x 2, jpayne@dynaCERT.com, www.dynaCERT.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News dynaCERT,  HydraGEN ,  CO2 Emissions,  

EDF
Date: 2019-04-08
Paris-headquartered French energy supplier Electricite de France (EDF) is reporting the establishment of Hynamics B.V., a new subsidiary headquartered in Dongen, the Netherlands. The new company will develop a range of hydrogen solutions for industrial and mobility customers through ivestments in hydrogen production plants and infrastructure solutions such as filling stations for commercial vehicle fleets, and has identified around 40 target projects in Europe, according to a press release.

Hynamics plans to generate hydrogen through water electrolysis, which would reduce CO2 emissions to zero. The prerequisite for this is that the electricity used for production also comes from renewable sources, the releases motes. (Source: EDF, PR, 6 April, 2019) Contact: EDF Group, Jean-Bernard Levy, CEO, www.edf.fr; Hynamics BV, +31 162 323 286, www.hynamic.com;

More Low-Carbon Energy News EDF,  Hydrogen,  Alternative Fuel,  

Carbon Emissions, Climate Change
Date: 2019-03-22
"People say Republicans are deniers and Democrats want to do something about it. Republicans like me want to do something about it too. And we've done things about it. We actually have a reduction in CO2 emissions in this country at a time when other countries are increasing their emissions. We have done it through a lot of different ways through having more alternative fuel vehicles out there -- including using ethanol -- and through energy conservation and efficiency." -- Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) Mar., 2019 Contact: Sen. Rob Portman, (R-Ohio), (513) 684-3265, https://twitter.com/robportman, www.portman.senate.gov

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

China ,Methanol
Date: 2019-03-20
In Beijing, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has announced plans to promote the use of cars running on methanol fuel and offer policy support to improve the manufacturing of vehicles, methanol fuel and other alternative fuels. The move represents a latest effort by the Chinese government to pursue new alternative energies for the world's largest car market in a more environmentally friendly development path.

To that end, the government will enhance policy guidance and services to improve technology for the manufacturing of methanol-fueled engines and vehicles. Policy support will also be offered to improve efficiency in producing methanol fuel, making equipment that absorbs carbon dioxide emissions, and the construction of methanol fueling stations. Additionally, the use of methanol cars for official trips, rental services and other areas will be encouraged. (Source: China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Global Times, 19 Mar., 2019) Contact: China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, www.miit.gov.cn

More Low-Carbon Energy News Methanol,  Ethanol,  Alternative Fuels,  

Alternative Fuels
Date: 2019-02-15
More than 700 transportation fuel related industry organizations representing users, retailers, customers, fleet managers, utilities, and producers of clean alternative transportation fuels submitted the following Chairmen Grassley and Neal, and Ranking Members Wyden and Brady:

"We ask your support for including a reinstatement of the $0.50/gallon alternative fuels tax credit (AFTC) in a fiscal year 2019 government spending package. The AFTC is a credit of $0.50 per gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) of certain transportation fuels, including natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, P Series Fuels, liquefied hydrogen and others.

" Extending the AFTC retroactively for 2018 and prospectively for 2019 will allow businesses and customers to continue to deploy cleaner alternative fuel technologies. A full five-year extension of the AFTC would provide business certainty along with a significant contribution to our nation's economic growth.

"Unfortunately, the credit has currently lapsed as of December 31, 2017 and many fleets, businesses, and manufacturers are unable to plan future investments as they manage current uncertainty. Immediately reinstating the AFTC for 2018 and 2019 is necessary to encouraging further deployment of new, clean transportation technology.

" Extending the AFTC will bring significant environmental benefits, improved air quality, and enhance our energy independence by lowering our dependence on foreign oil. Renewal of the AFTC also promotes increased private sector investment in infrastructure and equipment, which leads to more jobs and economic output." (Source: NGT News, Various Other Media, 15 Feb., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  Alternative Fuel Tax Credit,  

Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition
Date: 2019-02-08
Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition (CFC) reports it will join other clean transportation leaders representatives next week in Washington D.C. in an effort to educate and lobby federal policymakers on the benefits of expanding alternative fuels.

"Despite the recent drop in gasoline prices, gas prices remain extremely volatile and we continue to send more than $200 billion per year to OPEC and other nations for oil," said Mark Bentley, Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition's executive director. "We are going to Washington to help our representatives understand that Alabama and the United States must aggressively expand our use of alternatives to petroleum-based fuel if we are to stabilize gas prices, decrease our reliance on foreign oil and maintain and create domestic jobs in the transportation energy industry."

There are approximately 1.8 million alternative fuel vehicles currently on the road in the United States and nearly 70,000 alternative fueling stations, according to the US DOE. (Source: Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition, Alabama Reporter, 7 Jan., 2019) Contact: Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition, Mark Bentley, (205) 402-2755, www.alabamacleanfuels.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition,  Alternative Fuel,  

AB InBev
Date: 2019-02-06
International brewing giant Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) reports it is trialing liquified natural gas (LNG) in its UK delivery vehicles run out of its UK brewery in Samlesbury, Lancashire. The company is launching a two-week pilot to reduce CO2, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions by using natural gas, the most environmentally friendly fuel for deliveries.

The pilot will be closely monitored to quantify environmental and cost savings and, if successful, AB InBev has pledged to put LNG fueled tractors on the road permanently. The pilot is expected to deliver emissions reductions of up to: 15-80 pct of CO2 (mission dependent); 60 pct of NOx; 99 pct of PM; and 19dbs of noise pollution.

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV is a multinational drink and brewing holdings company based in Leuven, Belgium. Additional main offices are located in São Paulo, New York City, London, St. Louis, Mexico City, Bremen, Johannesburg and others. (Source: AB InBex, SHD Logistics, 5 Feb., 2019) Contact: AB InBev, www.ab-inbev.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News LNG,  Alternative Fuel,  

Preferred Utilities Manufacturing Corp
Date: 2019-01-14
Conn.-based Preferred Utilities Manufacturing Corp. is touting BRO, a new bio-residual oil produced from recycled vegetable grease and animal fat that it is using to power its 50,000-square-foot plant in Danbury this winter. The company is further developing the bio-residual oil on behalf of and in cooperation with Ames, Iowa-based Renewable Energy Group (REGI).

According to REGI, BRO produces up to 135,000 BTUs per gallon, a higher BTU value than coal or wood-fiber material, with approximately 100 to 125 pct more energy per pound than wood chips or pellets and burns cleaner by creating less particulate matter and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to alternative fuels. BRO also has the lowest carbon intensity of any commercially available liquid fuel.

Commercialization of the product could begin within a couple of years. Preferred notes it would partner with REGI to sell the product and that it previously worked to develop a "liquid wood" burner system for Canadian biocrude producer Ensyn Corp.,

Preferred Utilities Manufacturing Corporation is an engineering-based manufacturer of products for commercial, institutional, industrial and nuclear power facilities. Products include fuel oil handling systems and components, boiler instrumentation and controllers, high quality burners and nuclear power plant outage reduction tools and component parts. (Source: Preferred Utilities Manufacturing Corp., Jan., 2019) Contact: Preferred Utilities Manufacturing Corp., David Bohn, Pres, CEO, (203) 743-6741, www.preferred-mfg.com; REGI, Randy Howard, CEO, Katie Stanley, 515-239-8184, katie.stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  Renewable Energy Group,  ,  Biodiesel,  

Renaissance Technologies
Date: 2019-01-04
East Setauket, NY-headquartered Renaissance Technologies LLC reports it has raised its position in Clean Energy Fuels Corp. by 58.4 pct, according to its most recent SEC filing.. With this move,the firm holds 3.35 pct of Clean Energy Fuels worth $17,708,000, according to the SEC filing.

Clean Energy Fuels Corp. provides natural gas as an alternative fuel for vehicle fleets in the United States and Canada. The company supplies renewable natural gas (RNG), compressed natural gas (CNG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG) for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles; and provides operation and maintenance services for vehicle fleet customer stations. (Source: Renaissance Technologies, Clean Energy Fuels, Fairfield Current, 4 Jan., 2018) Contact: Renaissance Technologies, www.rentec.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renaissance Technologies news,  Clean Energy Fuels news,  RNG news,  

Heathrow, ICAO
Date: 2018-12-05
In a first for the UK aviation industry, London's Heathrow Airport has revealed its four-part action plan to reduce and offset the growth in emissions from a planned carbon-neutral expansion in summer 2019

Heathrow's plan builds on the momentum of technological change within the aviation industry to make travel more sustainable. The plan outlines action on four key areas including: cleaner aircraft performance and technology; improvements to airspace and ground operations; increased use of sustainable aviation fuels; and developing and promoting new carbon offsetting technologies and options. Additionally, Heathrow is calling on the ICAO -- the UN body for international aviation -- to develop global goals for the uptake of sustainable alternative fuels, and calling for the UK Government to engage ICAO and fellow member states to agree on a 2050 carbon emissions reduction goal for international aviation. (Source: Heathrow Airport, Various Aviation Media, Dec., 2018) Contact: Heathrow Airport, John Holland-Kaye, CEO, +44 0 8443 351801, www.heathrow.com; ICAO, +52 55 52 50 3211, icaonacc@icao.int, www.icao.int

More Low-Carbon Energy News ICAO,  Carbon Emissions,  Aviation Emissions,  

British Airways
Date: 2018-12-05
In the UK, air carrier British Airways, In collaboration with Cranfield University, is touting its new "BA 2119: Future of Fuels" challenge aimed at encouraging academics across the U.K. to develop a sustainable alternative fuel able to power a commercial aircraft on a long-haul flight, with up to 300 customers and zero net emissions. BA's challenge is the first time the industry has tasked experts from both aerospace and fuel fields to work in collaboration to tackle this environmental issue.

The Challenge winning team will receive £25,000 ($31,000) to support further research and a commitment from British Airways to work together to advance the idea. Nominations will be judged by a panel of industry experts based on the potential carbon reduction, innovation, value to the U.K. economy and feasibility of the idea.

As an early proponent of renewable jet fuels, IAG -- BA's parent company -- has committed to invest as much as $400 million on alternative sustainable fuel development over the next 20 years -- the highest ever financial commitment from an airline group. (Source: British Airways, Airline Geeks, 3 Dec., 2018) Contact: British Airways, www.britishairways.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Jet Biofuel,  Aviation Biofuel,  Biofuel,  Sustainable Fuel,  Renewable Fuel,  

Eindhoven University of Technology
Date: 2018-11-28
In Beijing, the National Institute of Clean-and-Low-Carbon Energy and Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands are touting a breakthrough which they claim cuts and captures the CO2 emissions and improves the financial viability of coal to liquid (CTL) fuels.

The key is a new type of catalyst to be used in the Fischer-Tropsch reactor, the part of the process in which carbon monoxide and hydrogen are converted into liquid hydrocarbons. In the CTL process coal is first converted to syngas -- a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen -- and then to a liquid. Some of the CO is taken out of the syngas by converting it to CO2, in a process called water-gas shift. The researchers discovered that the CO2 release is triggered because the iron-based catalysts in the reactor are not pure. Accordingly, the researchers developed an alternative catalyst using a type of iron carbide -- epsilon iron carbide -- which they say generates almost no CO2 at all. Any that is been produced can be easily removed at the water-gas shift stage.

The researchers expect the new catalyst will play a role in the future energy and basic chemicals industry. The feedstock will not be coal or gas, but waste and biomass. Syngas will continue to be the central element, as it is also the intermediate product in the conversion of these new feedstocks. (Source: National Institute of Clean-and-Low-Carbon Energy Cosmos, Oct., 2018)Contact: National Institute of Clean-and-Low-Carbon Energy, www.nicenergy.com/en; Eindhoven University of Technology, www.tue.nl/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  Synfuel,  

Nebraska Public Power District,Wartsila Energy Solutions
Date: 2018-11-21
The Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) reports the signing of a MOU with Finland's Lappeenranta University of Technology and Wartsila for the development of a business case for the use of alternative fuels with Wartsila generating sets.

The aim of the business case is to achieve a technically and commercially viable solution that will allow NPPD to proceed with an industrial scale pilot project to accelerate the development and commercial-scale production of methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and other low-carbon alternative fuels.

Working together, the parties will evaluate performance and commercial information on the various fuels, provide input for the economic model, and develop an economic evaluation model. By demonstrating the results with Wartsila test engines, it is envisioned that the conversion of hydrogen to methanol using CO2, then burning the methanol as fuel to produce electricity.(Source: Nebraska Public Power, PR, 15 Nov., 2018)Contact: Wartsila Energy Solutions, Mikael Backman, Regional Director, USA & Canada,www.wartsila.com/energy; Nebraska Public Power District, Pat Pope, CEO, Pres., www.nppd.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Wartsila,  Nebraska Public Power District,  Alternative Fuel,  

California Energy Commission
Date: 2018-11-09
In Sacramento, the California Energy Commission reports approval of $8 million in grant funding for the development of a high-capacity hydrogen fueling station at the Port of Long Beach.

The facility would service and promote the expansion of zero-emission fuel cell electric Class 8 drayage trucks used at the port facility. The station will source its hydrogen "from 100 percent renewable biogas," the Commission release notes. (Source: California Energy Commission, Nov., 2018)Contact: California Energy Commission, (916) 465-4500, www.energy.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biogas,  California Energy Commission,  Alternative Fuel,  Hydrogen ,  

Alt Fuel
Date: 2018-10-29
Reuters is reporting a group of 20 U.S. states and several major cities have petitioned the Trump administration to abandon its "unlawful and reckless" proposal to freeze fuel efficiency standards after 2020 and to strip California of the ability to impose its own vehicle emissions rules.

California, NY, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and the other states and cities are threatening court action if the Trump proposal is advanced. The potential litigants claim Trump's proposal "would deal a substantial blow in the fight against climate change."

Separately, a group representing major automakers is calling for "the federal government to set achievable future standards that continue to advance environmental and energy goals while recognizing marketplace realities." The automakers are pressing California and the federal government to retain nationwide emissions rules and avoid a prolonged legal battle. The Trump administration's plan would freeze standards at 2020 levels through 2026, hike U.S. oil consumption by about 500,000 bpd by the 2030s but reduce automakers regulatory costs by more than $300 billion, and prohibit California from requiring automakers to sell a rising number of electric vehicles. (Source: Reuters, Various Media, 28 Oct., 2018)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuels,  Fuel Efficiency,  

Neste Oil
Date: 2018-10-29
The Jerusalem Post is reporting Bar-Ilan University and Finland's Dr. Lars Peter Lindfors of Neste Oil will share the Eric and Sheila Samson Prime Minister's Prize for Innovation in Alternative Fuels for Transportation. The $1 million award is the largest prize in the field of innovation of alternative fuels for transportation worldwide.

Neste Oil Snr. VP of Technology Dr. Lars Peter Lindfors and his team have developed innovative methods to produce biodiesel from organic waste, including organic oils and used cooking oils. Through these newly-developed methods, Neste has been able to produce millions of tons of biodiesel annually to power trucks and boats, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90 pct. (Source: Jerusalem Post, 28 Oct., 2018) Contact: Neste Oil Corp., Kaisa Hietala, VP Renewable Products , +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste Oil,  Alternative Fuel,  Biodiesel,  

Methanol Institute
Date: 2018-10-24
The Washington-based Methanol Institute is reporting the findings of the MethaShip Research Project which has concluded that renewable Methanol offers a long term solution for the maritime shipping industry's carbon emission reduction strategy.

The MethaShip research found that Methanol can offer a dramatic improvement in emissions reduction across multiple ship types once the IMO has established the statutory framework conditions necessary for an industry-wide reduction of CO2 emissions.

The MethaShip research project concluded that: the properties of Methanol surpass other alternative fuels in shipping; the major benefit is the storage at ambient temperature and ambient pressure without loss; in terms of ship design, Methanol is space-saving, simple and practical with the established advantages of a liquid fuel; methanol offers compelling environmental properties and has the most promising lifecycle analysis when produced from renewable sources; and an already widespread availability could be a key enabler for methanol. (Source: The Methanol Institute, Shipping News, 23 Oct., 2018) Contact: Methanol Institute, (703) 248-3636, www.methanol.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Methanol Institute,  Methanol,  Marine Fuel,  

Auburn Universit
Date: 2018-10-22
Researchers at Auburn University (AU) and the University of Alabama (UA) are working on a bio-based additive to make diesel fuel burn cleaner as part of a $2 million U.S. DOE funded project. The Auburn project is part of about $10 million in funding from the DOE for the co-optimization of engines and fuels.

The AU project focuses on a process to efficiently produce a bio-based fuel additive called "butyl acetate" -- a naturally occurring organic compound in various fruit but that can also be produced in a lab. The traditional petrochemical-based production is energy consuming and not environmentally friendly, according to Yi Wang, principal investigator for the project and assistant professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering in Auburn's College of Agriculture.

Auburn researchers have developed a process using a genetically engineered strain of the bacteria Clostridium that has resulted the highest butyl acetate production ever reported in a microbial host. A patent has been filed from this work.

The additive can be blended with diesel fuel to reduce soot and greenhouse gas emissions and yield cleaner engine operation in cold-weather conditions. Blends with different amounts of butyl acetate will be studied by the engineering researchers at UA.(Source: Auburn University, Tuscaloosa News, 20 Oct., 2018) Contact: Auburn University, Prof. Ajay K. Agrawal, Mechanical Engineering, www.eng.ua.edu/people/aagrawal

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  US DOE,  Clean Fuel,  Alternative Fuel,  Green Fuel,  

NATSO
Date: 2018-10-03
NATSO Inc., the Alexandria, Virginia-headquartered national association representing the travel plaza and truckstop industry, and the Alternative Fuels Council are reporting the launch of a new RIN Management Service designed to help fuel retailers that blend and sell renewable fuels -- ethanol, biodiesel, renewable cng -- to more efficiently participate in the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program and manage their compliance and Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs). Under the RIN Management program, participants will:

consult with experts on the RFS and Low Carbon Fuel Standard compliance;

get help registering for EPA's RFS program as well as for the IRS Blenders License;

access sources for fuel supply options;

secure advice and assistance for state incentive programs;

monitor the status of impending IRS Blender's Tax Credits;

participants can access an exclusive software program that provides real-time RIN management, a system of record for all RIN transactions, as well as RIN account reconciliations. Through this software, blenders and marketers can reduce the staff time that it takes to comply with the RFS by as much as 75 pct;

knowledgeable Alternative Fuels Council staff will perform EPA-required quarterly reporting as well as end-of-year third-party CPA audits.

The new RIN Management Service marks the second offering from the Alternative Fuels Council this year. The Alternative Fuels Council previously unveiled a Biodiesel Fuel Quality Plan designed to help those who blend, market, and distribute biodiesel blends ensure the final product meets a minimum standard of quality. A step-by-step guide to the blending process directs users through fuel quality management, including sampling procedures, protocols and proposed schedules, to help ensure that alternative fuel meets the required ASTM fuel quality standards. The Alternative Fuels Council also helps facilitate fuel testing and analysis for marketers at a substantially discounted price.

The Alternative Fuels Council is a NATSO, Inc. subsidiary created to help NATSO members and the entire retail fuels industry understand alternative fuels markets, including available government incentives, to effectively incorporate alternative fuels into their supply offerings. (Source: NATSO, PR, Oct., 2018) Contact: NATSO, Lisa Mullings, Pres., CEO, Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman, (703) 739-8578, twlazlowski@natso.com, www.natso.com; Alternative Fuels Council, Jeff Hove, jhove@natsoaltfuels.com, www.NATSOAltFuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News NATSO,  Biofuel,  Alternative Fuel,  

KLM,SkyNRG
Date: 2018-09-19
Aviation biofuels specialist SkyNRG is reporting plans to establish a bio-kerosene alternative fuel production facility in the Netherlands. A location for the plant has not yet been finalized but Groningen, Rotterdam and Amsterdam have reportedly been shortlisted.

Bio-kerosine is made from woody biomass, agricultural and food processing wastes. The Dutch Airline KLM currently imports bio-kerosine from Los Angeles and uses the fuel primarily on fights to the US east coast. (Source: SkyNRG, DutchNews.nl, Sept., 2018) Contact:SkyNRG, Maarten van Dijk, Director, Merel Laroy, +31 6 3083 3505. merel@skynrg.com, www.sktnerg.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  Aviation Biofuel,  SkyNRG,  

NY State,Gov. Andrew Cuomo
Date: 2018-09-19
In the Empire State, the office of Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) has announced that more than 200 communities statewide have earned the Clean Energy Community designation and, as such, are eligible to seek grant funds for energy efficiency projects.

To qualify for funding, a community must complete at least four of 10 high-impact clean energy actions to earn the designation, which recognizes community leadership in reducing energy use, cutting costs and driving clean energy. Local governments holding the designation can seek up to $250,000 to finance additional clean projects, or up to $100,000 if the community has fewer than 40,000 residents.

The high-impact actions municipalities can complete include:

Benchmarking energy use at municipal and large privately-owned buildings;

Performing energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to municipal buildings;

Replacing street lights with energy-efficient LED lighting;

Streamlining local approval processes for solar projects through the adoption of the state Unified Solar Permit;

Undertaking a community-based Solarize campaign to reduce solar project costs through joint purchasing;

Providing energy code enforcement training to code officers;

Earning Climate Smart Communities Certification by reducing the community's impact on the environment;

Passing a local law to allow aggregation of residents to gain greater choice and control over energy use as a group, called Community Choice Aggregation;

Installing electric vehicle charging stations and using alternative fuel vehicles for municipal business; and:

Establishing an Energize NY Finance Program that enables long-term, affordable Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects at commercial buildings and not-for-profits.

To date, approximately 450 New York state local governments representing more than 86 pct of the state's population in 60 counties and all 10 Economic Development Council regions, have completed more than 1,250 high-impact actions. The $16 million Clean Energy Communities initiative supports energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable development projects. The state's clean energy goal aims to supply 50 pct of its electricity from renewable energy resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 pct by 2030. (Source: Office of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, The Recorder, 17 Sept., 2018) Contact: NY Clean Energy Communities Program, www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Programs/Clean-Energy-Communities; NYSERDA, Alicia Barton, Pres., CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News NYSERDA,  Clean Energy Community,  Energy Efficiency,  Gov. Andrew Cuomo ,  

American Farm Bureau Federation
Date: 2018-08-27
"Though pleased with EPA's proposal to increase renewable fuel volumes, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) warned that the agency's excessive use of small refinery "hardship" waivers diminishes the likelihood that volume targets will be met.

"EPA's excessive use (of small refinery waivers) will undermine the goals that were set by Congress to create a more robust renewable fuels industry and greater energy independence. EPA's actions could result in an estimated 1.5 billion gallons of lost demand for renewable fuels," the AFBF said.

"EPA's proposed renewable fuels volume standards for 2019 would maintain the statutory requirement for conventional renewable fuel at 15 billion gallons, increase cellulosic fuels to 381 million gallons and bump up total advanced biofuels to 4.88 billion gallons. It would also increase the biomass-based diesel volume to 2.43 billion gallons for 2020.

"The AFBF touted the Renewable Fuel Standard's many successes, including the growth it spurred within the agriculture sector as corn and soybean farmers expanded their crop production to meet growing demand for corn- and soybean-based biofuels.

"Beyond the boost to the agricultural economy, the RFS2 is intended to spur investment in cleaner, domestic fuels; give consumers more choices at the pump; lower gas prices; and boost the country's energy security. But EPA has allowed dozens of oil refineries off the hook from their legal obligations to blend renewable fuels with gasoline and diesel fuel, which is jeopardizing this progress, according to Farm Bureau.

"Given the accomplishments of the RFS program to date, EPA's excessive and unreasonable use of the small refinery waiver dampens the prospects for reduced emissions and increased energy security," the organization cautioned.

"AFBF also addressed the RIN market as it relates to the current RFS2 program, noting that RINS are functioning properly and providing incentives for refiners to offer higher blends of ethanol in the market at prices that are increasingly competitive with conventional gasoline. A RIN is a serial number assigned to a batch of biofuel for the purpose of tracking its production, use and trading.

"In addition, the organization emphasized that the petroleum industry's unwillingness to offer higher blends of biofuels should not be taken as evidence that the RFS2 is unworkable. Rather, it is evidence that they are unwilling to adapt to policies enunciated by Congress. But making space in the market for alternative fuels that contribute to energy independence, environmental improvement, and economic development is exactly the point of RFS2." (Source: American Farm Bureau Federation, FBNews, 21 Aug., 2018) Contact: American Farm Bureau Federation, Sarah Brown Dirkes, Exec. Director, Industry Relations, (202) 406-3684, sarahd@fb.org, www.fb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS,  Hardship Waiver,  EPA,  

India Biofuel
Date: 2018-08-03
On the subcontinent, the state of Rajasthan has become the first Indian state to implement the national policy on biofuels unveiled by the national Biofuel Authority in May this year.

In accordance with the Biofuel National Policy:

the State Government will be putting emphasis on increasing production of oilseeds;

the State Government is promoting research in the fields of alternative fuels and energy resources;

the State has installed an 8 tpd biodiesel plant;

the State will promote and advertise biofuels to increase public consumption and awareness. of biofuels; encourage the establishment of a supply chain mechanism for biodiesel production from non-edible oilseeds -- used cooking oil and short gestation crops.

In other Indian biofuel news, My Eco Energy (MEE) reports it will open more than 300 biofuel filling stations in the Indian state of Gujarat by 2019. The new MEE biofuel sites will offer Indizel, the only renewable fuel in India which complies with EN 590, BS-VI, and EURO 6 quality standards. Indizel can be used in all diesel engines without engine modification or blending limits, according to the company. (Source: India Today, Hindu Business Line, Petrol Plaza, 1 Aug., 2018)

More Low-Carbon Energy News India Biofuel,  Biofuel,  

Materials Lifecycle Management Co
Date: 2018-08-01
In the Sunshine State, Hillsborough County Commissioners are expected to vote today on a tax rebate for Tampa-based Materials Lifecycle Management Co. which is planning to invest as much as $9 million its Plant City manufacturing facility.

Materials Lifecycle Management Co. is seeking incentives under the state's Qualified Target Industry program, which would provide rebates totaling half of the property taxes on its expansion. The total rebate is equal to $225,000 in tax refunds, $180,000 of which would come from the state. A local match from Hillsborough County is required to leverage state funds. In order to receive the tax rebates, the company pledges to create 45 new higher-wage jobs that are at least 115 percent of Hillsborough County's private sector average wage.

MLMC is a rapidly expanding materials management company, with patented and proprietary materials optimization and alternative fuels technology. Cost-effective and cleaner burning than traditional fossil fuels, MLMC's Enviro Fuelcubes® (EFCs) are an EPA designated "Legitimate Fuel" capable of fully or partially replacing coal and other fossil fuels as the primary fuel used in energy intensive industrial processes such as cement and power production, among others. (Source: Materials Lifecycle Management Co., Tampa Bay Business Journal, 31 July, 2018) Contact: Materials Lifecycle Management Co, think@notwaste.com, www.notwaste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Waste-to-Fuel,  Biofuel,