Duke Energy, Evensol
Date: 2022-04-29
In North Carolina, Charlotte-headquartered Duke Energy reports it is investing in the Foothills Renewables and Upper Piedmont Renewables renewable natural gas (RNG) projects which are under construction for completion and startup in Q4 this year. The two projects are expected to produce roughly 500,000 dekatherms (Dth) per year of RNG -- equivalent to the average natural gas usage of nearly 17,000 North Carolina residential customers.

Both projects are being developed by Evensol, which develops and acquires renewable fuels-based assets in the biomass, biogas and biofuels sectors. Energyneering Solutions will construct and operate the plants. A portion of the RNG will be transported by infrastructure owned and operated by Duke Energy's Piedmont Natural Gas unit, and sold to third-party customers. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, April, 2022) Contact: Duke Energy, Brian Savoy, Exec. VP Strategy and Commercial Officer, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com; Evensol, David Wentworth, CEO, dwentworth@evensol.com, www.evensol.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Evensol,  Duke Energy,  RNG,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2022-02-11
Charlotte, N.C.- based Duke Energy, the second-largest U.S. electric company by market value, reports it intends to more than double its renewable energy capacity by 2030 and shutter its 11 remaining coal-fueled plants -- six across North Carolina and South Carolina, one in Florida and four in the Midwest by 2035 . Duke presently owns, operates or uses energy from more than 10,000 MW of solar and wind and aims to increase that number to 24,000 MW by 2030.

Duke expects to invest more than $130 billion in the next decade on projects and investments, 80 pct of which will go toward cleaner sources as it overhauls the grid to support more renewable energy and new technologies and address climate change. The company has added $4 billion to a five-year spending plan, as well, which is now about $63 billion. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, Feb., 2022) Contact: Duke Energy, Brian Savoy, Exec. VP Strategy and Commercial Officer, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Coal,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2021-11-10
In St. Petersburg, Duke Energy Florida reports its Duette Solar Power Plant in Manatee County is now online and fully operational .delivering on the company's commitment to expand its clean energy portfolio statewide. The 74.5-MW facility consists of approximately 227,000 single-axis tracking solar panels generating sufficient power for approximately 23,000 homes at peak production annually.

The Duette facility is part of Duke Energy Florida's $1 billion investment to provide customers with 700 MW of clean energy by 2022. With a combined investment of over $2 billion, Duke Energy Florida's solar generation portfolio will include 25 grid-tied solar power plants providing about 1,500 MW by 2024. The company notes it is well on its way to completing 10 new solar projects by 2022. Eight of those facilities are now in service, while the remaining two are under construction. Duke also expects to have six battery sites totalling more than 50 MW in operation in Florida by 2022. Duke is aiming to cut carbon emissions by at least 50 pct by 2030 and reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and to that end is investing in major electric grid upgrades, expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, Website, 9 Nov., 2021) Contact: Duke Energy, Melissa Seixas, Fla. State Pres., www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy news,  Solar news,  

Vestas,Duke Energy
Date: 2021-09-29
Danish wind energy giant Vestas Wind Systems A/S is reporting receipt of a 207 MW order for 46 units of its V150-4.5 MW wind turbines from Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions to power the Ledyard Windpower project in Iowa. The order includes turbine supply, commissioning and a 10-year Active Output Management 5000 (AOM 5000) service agreement.

With this order Vestas introduces the V150-4.5 MW and V136-4.5 MW turbines -- two new variants of the 4 MW platform -- that offer an annual energy production increase of more than 3 pct compared with the existing variants of V136-4.2 MW and V150-4.2 MW and leverages the proven 4 MW technology with a combined global order intake of more than 21 GW.

Turbine delivery for the Ledyard Windpower project is slated to begin in Q2, 2022 for Q4 ,2022 commissioning. (Source: Vestas-American Wind Technology, PR, 28 Sept., 2021) Contact: Vestas, Chante Condit-Pottol, , Marketing & Communications, (503) 708-6668, chcpo@vestas.com, www.vestas.com; Duke Energy, Brian Savoy, Exec. VP Strategy and Commercial Officer, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vestas,  Duke Energy,  Wind,  Wind Turbine,  

Reliance Ind., REC Solar
Date: 2021-09-03
Mumbai-based Indian industrial conglomerate Reliance Industries is reportedly planning to acquire Duke Energy Renewables subsidiary REC Solar for roughly $1 billion to $1.2 billion. Reliance is reportedly in talks with several unspecified lenders to support the transaction.

As previously reported, Reliance Industries, which focuses on the energy, petrochemical, natural gas, and other industries, plans to invest $8.1 billion over the next three years to build giga-factories for solar, green hydrogen, energy storage, electrolyzers, and fuel cells, including an integrated PV module factory in France.

REC Solar's annual production capacity stands at roughly 1.8 GW. (Source: Reliance Energy, PR, 2 Sept., 2021) Contact: Reliance Industries, www.ril.com; REC Solar, Singapre-based www.ril.com; REC Solar, Matt Walz, CEO, 805.471.0085, www.recsolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Reliance Industries,  REC Solar,  

Copenhagen Infrastructure,Transalta
Date: 2021-09-03
Calgary-based TransAlta Renewables Inc. is reporting definitive agreements for the acquisition of a 122 MW portfolio of operating solar facilities located in North Carolina from a fund managed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners for $96.65 million, subject to working capital adjustments and the assumption of existing tax equity obligations.

The North Carolina Solar portfolio incorporates 20 solar photovoltaic facilities across North Carolina, with an aggregate capacity of 122 MW. The facilities are all operational and were commissioned between November 2019 and May 2021, and have PPAs in place with Duke Energy subsidiaries with an average remaining term of 12 years. Under the PPAs, Duke receives the renewable electricity, capacity, and environmental attributes from each facility. (Source: Transalta, PR, Sept., 2021) Contact: Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Kristina Negendahl Jessen, +45 70 70 51 51, cip@cip.dk, www.cip.dk; TransAlta, (855) 255-9184, www.transalta.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Copenhagen Infrastructure,  Transalta,  Solar,  Duke Energy,  

Date: 2021-09-02
Calgary-based TransAlta Renewables Inc. is reporting definitive agreements for the acquisition of a 122 MW portfolio of operating solar facilities located in North Carolina (collectively, “North Carolina Solar”).

The assets will be acquired from a fund managed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners for US$96.65 million, subject to working capital adjustments and the assumption of existing tax equity obligations. The acquisition will be funded using existing liquidity. Income distributions to the Company will be net of cash and tax attributes provided to the tax equity investor. The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2021. The transaction is structured so that at closing, TransAlta Renewables will acquire a 100% economic interest in North Carolina Solar from a wholly-owned subsidiary of TransAlta Corporation through a tracking share structure.

. The North Carolina Solar portfolio consists of 20 solar photovoltaic facilities across North Carolina, with an aggregate capacity of 122 MW. The facilities are all operational and were commissioned between November 2019 and May 2021. The facilities are secured by long-term power purchase agreements (“PPAs”) with two subsidiaries of Duke Energy (“Duke”), which have an average remaining term of 12 years. Under the PPAs, Duke receives the renewable electricity, capacity, and environmental attributes from each facility. North Carolina Solar is expected to generate an average annual EBITDA of approximately US$9 million and average annual cash available for distribution (“CAFD”) of approximately US$7 million. The $96 million acquisition is expected to produce approximately 195,000 MWh per year; average annual EBITDA and CAFD of approximately US$9 million, and US$7 million; respectively; an investment Tax Credit (ITC) Partnership flip-based tax equity structures with target flip dates in 2026-- 2028, with assumed tax equity obligations of US$28 million at close, reducing to US$11 million by end of 2021 upon monetization of the ITC; and long term contracted cashflows with investment grade counterparties. The portfolio includes: 20 operating facilities across North Carolina ranging in size from 3.2 MW to 6.7 MW;commercial operational dates ranging from November 2019 to May 2021, andaverage remaining PPA term of 12 years with Duke. (Source: Transalta, PR, Sept., 2021

Clean Air Biodiesel,Clean Cities Coalition
Date: 2021-08-18
In the Buckeye State, Columbus-based waste cooking oil biodiesel producer Clean Air Biodiesel reports it has joined the Columbus-based Clean Fuels Ohio coalition, a national Clean Cities Coalition member that provides insight on alternative transportation fuels. Other members include Duke Energy, Honda, Cummins, Ohio Soybean Council, RNG Coalition and the American Biogas Council.

In addition to joining Clean Fuels Ohio, Clean Air Biodiesel recently announced a waste cooking oil reclamation and recycling initiative for the City of Columbus. Clean Air Biodiesel is Ohio's newest biodiesel producer with a new 30,000 square-foot facility opening this autumn to produce more than 25 million gpy of biodiesel . (Source: Clean Fuels Ohio, PR, 17 Aug., 2021) Contact: Clean Air Biodiesel, Bruce Burke, Dir. Marketing, 614-948-8533, www.clean-air-biodiesel.com; Clean Fuels Ohio, Rachel Ellenberger, Busines Development and Communications , www.cleanfuelsohio.org; Clean Cities Coalition, www.cleancities.energy.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Clean Cities,  Clean Air Biodiesel,  Clean Cities,  Biodiesel,  Clean Fuels Ohio,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2021-07-30
Charlotte, N.C.-based Duke Energy reports that with the commissioning and startup of the 144-MW Pflugerville Solar project in Texas it now owns, operates, or purchases more than 10,000 MW of solar and wind energy throughout the U.S. from both its regulated and non-regulated businesses.

The company's renewables portfolio includes nearly 200 sites in 22 states, with over 1,000 MW of new projects under construction throughout the country, including Florida, Texas, and the Carolinas.

Duke Energy has set a goal of reaching 16,000 MW of renewables by 2025 and 47,000 MW by 2050. The company also aims cut carbon emissions by at least 50 pct by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050. (Source: Duke Energy, Website, PR, July 29, 2021) Contact: Duke Energy, Brian Savoy, Exec. VP Strategy and Commercial Officer, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

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

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions
Date: 2021-06-07
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, a non-regulated commercial brand of Duke Energy , reports construction is underway on its 250-MW Pisgah Ridge Solar project in Navarro County, Texas. When fully operational, the facility will be the largest utility-scale solar facility in Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions' fleet.

Charles River Laboratories International Inc. , a provider of critical research tools and integrated support services that enable innovative and efficient drug discovery and development, has inked a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for 102 MW of the project over 15 years. This commitment will address the entirety of the company's North American electric power load with clean, renewable energy by 2023. (Source: Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, PR 7 June, 2021) Contact: Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, www. sustainablesolutions.duke-energy.com/solutions

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions news,  Solar news,  

Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2021-05-28
Duke Energy Corp reports construction is underway on the 22.6-MW solar park in Cabarrus County North Carolina.

The solar park, which will incorporate 77,000 Jinko Solar bifacial modules on single-axis trackers, will be owned and operated by Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions -- a new commercial brand of the utility.

The project is being constructed by California-based construction group Swinerton and is expected to be commissioned and operational by the end of the year when it will generate sufficient energy for roughly 5,000 homes. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, 27 May, 2021) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Jinko Solar,  Solar,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2021-04-30
US utility Duke Energy is reporting completion of the installation of roughly 2 million smart meters in the Sunshine State.

The smart meter installations are part of Duke's digital transformation initiative and to improve customer services, revenue collection and grid management. Smart Meters will also provide real-time energy usage data to help consumers make smarter choices regarding electric power use and improving energy efficiency. (Source: Duke Energy, PR 29 Apr., 2021) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Florida,  Smart Meter,  Energy Efficiency,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2021-04-28
In its just released 15th Sustainablilty Report, Charlotte, North Calolina-headquartered Duke Energy notes it plans to triple the amount of renewable energy it produces from company power plants and dramatically reduce carbon emissions by 2030.

Currently, 7 pct of Duke Energy's company-owned electrical output comes from wind, solar and hydroelectric plants. That figure is projected to grow to 23 pct by 2030. The company is also undertaking its aggressive renewable energy build-outs with wind and solar projects currently under construction in Florida, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Texas. Over the next three years, Duke will also add 280 mw of pumped storage hydro capacity at its Bad Creek facility in South Carolina.

The company is also overseeing the largest coal retirement in the industry and since 2010 has retired 51 coal-fired units and is aiming to cut carbon emissions 50 pct by 2030 to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. To that end, the company is on track to operate or purchase 16,000 mw of renewable energy capacity by 2025 and is investing in major electric grid upgrades, expanded battery storage, and exploring zero-emitting power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear, according to the release.

Duke Energy also announced Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, a new comprehensive brand for its non-regulated commercial renewables business. The brand unifies products and services offered by several Duke Energy subsidiaries, including Duke Energy Renewables, REC Solar and Duke Energy One. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, 28 Apr., 2021) Contact: Duke Energy, Katherine Neebe, VP National engagement & Strategy, Chief Sustainability Officer, Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Renewable Energy Carbon Emissions,  Net-Zero Emissions,  

Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2021-04-09
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy Renewables is reportedly planning a $180 million, 175 MW solar installation across 1,500 acres of reclaimed strip mine in Vigo and Sullivan Counties, southwest of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Construction could break ground in 2023 for commercial operation in mid-2024. (Source: Duke Energy Renewables, PV Mag., Apr., 2021) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Solar,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2021-02-24
In the Palmetto State, the Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) has approved Charlotte-based Duke Energy's Green Source Advantage program for large customers. The program enables large customers to negotiate all prices and contract length terms directly with a renewable energy supplier of their choice as well as retaining the renewable energy certificates (RECs) generated by the renewable facility.

The program will be available until the total capacity of 200 megawatts (MW) is fully subscribed. Of this 200-MW capacity, 35 MW will be set aside for local government and university customers for nine months. The remaining 165 MW will be reserved for large nonresidential customers -- 125 MW for Duke Energy Carolinas and 40 MW for Duke Energy Progress.

Download Green Source Advantage Program details HERE. (Source: Duke Energy, Website PR, 23 Feb., 2021) Contact: Duke Energy, www.duke-energy.com

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

Duke Energy
Date: 2021-02-19
In the Sunshine State, US power company Duke Energy Corp. reports its Florida subsidiary Duke Energy Florida has begun construction on the 74.5-MW Duette Solar Power Plant in Manatee County and the Charlie Creek Solar Power Plant in Hardee County totaling 149.4 MW. Both projects are expected to come online before the year end.

The Duette project will incorporate 227,000 single-axis tracking panels and the Charlie Creek installation will use 235,000 single-axis tracking panels. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, Website, 17 Feb., 2021) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Duke Energy,  

Appalachian Power ,LS Power Development
Date: 2021-02-10
In the Old Dominion State, Duke Energy reports it will acquire 400 MW of energy storage from Roanoke-based Appalachian Power's Bath County Pumped Energy Storage Station in the Allegheny Mountains north of Roanoke.

New York-headquartered LS Power Development holds a 24 pct interest in the Bath County Pumped Storage Station which is touted as the "largest of its kind in the world" capable of producing sufficient power for as many as 750,000 homes, according to Dominion Energy.

The Virginia Clean Economy Act, a landmark law passed last year by the General Assembly, requires Appalachian and Dominion to invest in energy storage as well solar and wind in order to meet the state's 100 pct renewable power portfolio by mid-century. (Source: Appalachian Power, PR, Roanoke Times, Feb., 2021) Contact: Appalachian Power, www.appalachianpower.com; LS Power Development, (212) 615-3456, www.lspower.com; Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Appalachian Power,  Pumped Energy Storage ,  

Siemens Energy, Duke Energy, Clemson University
Date: 2020-12-14
Siemens Energy, Duke Energy and Clemson University have teamed up to study the use of hydrogen for energy storage and as a low- or no-carbon fuel source to produce energy at Duke Energy's combined heat and power plant located at Clemson University in South Carolina.

The US DOE awarded Siemens Energy a $200,000 grant for the "H2-Orange" research pilot to be launched in March. 2021. The project will include studies on hydrogen production, storage and co-firing with natural gas as well as evaluate multiple forms of hydrogen production, including green hydrogen, which has the potential to store larger quantities of energy more efficiently and for longer durations than lithium-ion battery technology.

Duke Energy has actively evaluated hydrogen as a low- or no-carbon fuel source to help meet its net-zero carbon goal by 2050, as have Siemens Energy and Clemson University as they aim for net-zero carbon by 2030. (Source: Siemens Energy AG,Website PR, Dec., 2020) Contact: Siemens Energy, www.siemens-energy.com; Duke Energy, www.duke-energy.com; Clemson University, 864-656-3311, www.clemson.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hydrogen,  Energy Storage,  Siemens Energy,  Duke Energy,  Clemson University,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2020-10-14
Charlotte, North Carolina-based gas and electric utility Duke Energy reports it expects to invest $123 billion -- $133 billion on a 10-year plan to significantly reduce its carbon footprint through accelerating coal plant retirements and achieving net- zero methane emissions in its natural gas business by 2030. Of the total proposed expenditures, $58 billion would be spent in 2020-24 and $65 billion -- $75 billion in 2025-29.

According to a release, Duke plans to achieve net-zero methane emissions by 2030 partly with new technologies to enhance measuring and monitoring, operational efficiencies and damage prevention initiatives. The company also plans to: retire all coal-only units in the Carolinas by 2030; double the company's renewable portfolio to 16 GW by 2025; at least triple the renewable capacity for Duke's regulated utilities by 2030 and increase regulated renewable capacity to 40 GW by 2050, and add more than 11,000 MW of energy storage by 2050. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, Website, NGI, Oct., 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Methane Emissions,  Renewable Energy,  Coal,  Carbon Footprint,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2020-10-14
Charlotte, North Carolina-based gas and electric utility Duke Energy reports it expects to invest $123 billion -- $133 billion on a 10-year plan to significantly reduce its carbon footprint through accelerating coal plant retirements and achieving net- zero methane emissions in its natural gas business by 2030. Of the total proposed expenditures, $58 billion would be spent in 2020-24 and $65 billion -- $75 billion in 2025-29.

According to a release, Duke plans to achieve net-zero methane emissions by 2030 partly with new technologies to enhance measuring and monitoring, operational efficiencies and damage prevention initiatives. The company also plans to: retire all coal-only units in the Carolinas by 2030; double the company's renewable portfolio to 16 GW by 2025; at least triple the renewable capacity for Duke's regulated utilities by 2030 and increase regulated renewable capacity to 40 GW by 2050, and add more than 11,000 MW of energy storage by 2050. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, Website, NGI, Oct., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Renewable Energy,  Methane,  Coal,  

Duke Energy,Ameresco,Fort Bragg
Date: 2020-09-30
In North Carolina, Charlotte-based Duke Energy is reporting it expects to begin construction on a 1.1-MW floating solar facility on Big Muddy Lake at the U.S. Army's Fort Bragg military base. The solar array will be paired with a 2-MW battery energy storage system and supplement power to the military installation from the local grid, providing backup power during electric service outages.

Duke Energy's prime contractor Ameresco will construct the facility, while Fort Bragg will own and operate the system once construction is completed. The project is part of Duke Energy's $36 million energy services contract with Fort Bragg.

Duke Energy owns 40 solar facilities in NC, including the 80-MW Conetoe Solar Facility in Edgecombe County, the 65-MW Warsaw Solar Facility in Duplin County and the 60-MW Monroe Solar Facility in Union County. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, WRAL, 30 Sept., 2020)Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com; Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP , (508) 661-2264, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Amerseco,  Floating Solar,  Solar,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2020-08-28
Charlotte, North Carolina-headquartered utility Duke Energy reports it has begun operating the largest battery storage system in the Tar Heel State.

Duke noted it plans to invest about $600 million for 375 MW of energy storage across its regulated businesses. The utility aims to reduce carbon emissions by at least 50 pct by 2030 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, according to a company statement.

The 9-MW lithium-ion Samsung battery system in Ashville came in at roughly $15 million and will provide energy support to the electric system including frequency regulation and other grid support services. (Source: Duke Energy, News Center PR, 27 Aug., 2020)Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Energy Storage,  Lithium-Ion Battery,  

Duke Energy Renewables, REC Solar
Date: 2020-08-21
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy Renewables reports the closing of $109.4 million in a preferred tax equity funding from Goldman Sachs' Alternative Energy Investing Group.

The investment will be used over 18 months to fund a diverse portfolio of approximately 75 MW of solar and solar-plus-storage projects to be developed and constructed by Duke Energy Renewables' subsidiary REC Solar. Projects will feature ground-mount and rooftop commercial and industrial projects, as well as community solar projects in several states.

Duke Energy Renewables, a non-regulated unit of Duke Energy, operates U.S. wind and solar generation facilities totaling 3,000 MW as well as energy storage and microgrid projects. (Source: Duke Energy News Center, Website, 18 Aug., 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Chris Fallon, (704) 594-6200, chris.fallon@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com; REC Solar, www.recsolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Solar,  Solar Storage,  REC Soilar,  

Duke Energy,SustainRNG
Date: 2020-08-19
North Carolina utility Duke Energy is reporting partnering with Charlotte-based SustainRNG, a North Carolina start-up firm, to work with southeastern US dairy farmers to develop biogas as an alternate fuel.

SustainRNG will engineer, finance, construct and operate RNG sites in collaboration with dairy farmers. Duke Energy has a minority share in SustainRNG and the option to invest in future operating projects.

Methane (biogas) is more than 80 times more potent as a global warming agent in its first 20 years in the atmosphere compared with CO2. (Source: Duke Energy, PR, 17 Aug., 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com; SustainRNG, Michael Shore, CEO, michael@SustainRNG.com, www.sustainrng.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG,  Biogas,  SustainRNG,  Duke Energy,  

Duke Energy, SustainRNG
Date: 2020-07-31
Charlotte, North Carolina-based utility giant Duke Energy reports it has taken a minority stake in SustainRNG, a company that plans to capture bovine emissions of methane on dairy farms in the Southwest with the potential scale up nationwide. SustainRNG's first farm-based project is slated to start in late 2021.

Methane is more than 80 times more potent as a global warming agent in its first 20 years in the atmosphere compared with CO2. (Source: Duke Energy PR, BNN, 30 July, 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com; SustainRNG, www.sustainrng.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG,  Duke Energy,  SustainRNG,  Methane,  Biogas,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2020-07-31
In North Carolina, the Energy Efficiency for All (EEFA) project partners are reporting a settlement with Duke Energy in the pending rate cases that includes a $6 million contribution over two years to the state's Helping Home Fund. The Fund delivers a suite of energy efficiency improvements and critical health and safety repairs, including heating and cooling upgrades and appliance replacement. The settlement also included a commitment to develop new energy-efficiency pilot programs in North Carolina that will serve the needs of low-income households.

As of 2018, the Helping Home Fund has assisted over 4,300 North Carolinians most burdened by high energy bills. A study from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy and EEFA found the median household in Charlotte, for example, spent 4 pct of their income on energy, while the median low-income household spent about twice that much. And the most under-resourced households spent more than 3.5 times as much.

The Helping Home Fund is administered by the North Carolina Community Action Association and provides funding for its member agencies that provide energy efficiency weatherization assistance to low-income households. (Source: Duke Energy, NRDC, 31 July, 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Helping Home Fund, www.duke-energy.com/home/products/income-qualified/helping-home-fund; EFFA, www.eefa.net

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2020-07-15
REC Solar, a subsidiary of Duke Energy Renewables, is reporting completion of a 1 MW rooftop solar installation for the Cincinnati-based grocery chain Kroger Co. The installation is at a 300,000-square-foot bakery facility serving two Kroger subsidiaries in California. The installation includes nearly 3,000 solar panels and can produce more than 2 GWh per year of power -- sufficient to power 240 homes.

The city of La Habra, California, supported the project. (Source: Duke Energy Renewables, PR, Charlotte Business Journal, 14 July, 2020) Contact: REC Solar, www.recgroup.com; Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Solar,  REC Solar,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2020-04-29
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy reports the release of its 14th Sustainability Report highlighting the company's progress toward its sustainability goals:

Energy efficiency -- Duke Energy's goals to reduce customer energy consumption and peak demand were both exceeded in 2019. The company has set even more aggressive energy efficiency goals for 2020.

Renewable enewable energy -- Duke Energy plans to double its renewable energy portfolio within five years. In 2019, the company owned, operated and contracted over 8,000 megawatts (MW) of capacity. In the new report, Duke Energy is establishing a goal of 16,000 MW by the end of 2025.

Download the Sustainability report HERE. (Source: Duke Energy, April, 2020) Contact: Duke Energy, Randy Wheeless, 704-382-8379, randy.wheeless@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Renewable Energy,  Energy Efficiency,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2020-04-29
According to Duke Energy's 2020 Climate Report the company reduced carbon emissions from electricity generation by an additional 8 pct in 2019 from 2005 levels, bringing total reductions to date to 39 pct -- on track to achieve its 2030 goal of reducing carbon emissions from electricity generation by at least 50 pct from 2005 levels and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Download the 2020 Climate Change Report HERE. (Source: Duke Energy, April, 2020) Contact: Duke Energy, 2020 Climate Report, Phil Sgro, 800.559.3853, www.duke-energy.com

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

Duke Energy Renewables ,Colorado Springs Utilities
Date: 2020-04-17
Duke Energy Renewables and Colorado Springs Utilities are reporting the start of operation for the 60 MW, 220,000 panel Palmer Solar project on roughly 700 acres southeast of Colorado Springs, Colo. The project is the largest solar project contracted by Springs Utilities to date and the first solar project to interconnect with its transmission system.

Springs Utilities will purchase the electricity Palmer Solar generates from Duke Energy Renewables under the terms of a 20-year PPA. The project was acquired by Duke Energy Renewables from juwi Americas in May 2019. (Source: Duke Energy Renewables, Colorado Springs Utilities, Env+Energy Leader, 15 April, 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com; Colorado Springs Utilities, www.csu.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Colorado Springs Utilities,  Duke Energy Renewables,  Solar ,  

Bidgely
Date: 2020-04-08
Mountain View, California-based utility artificial (AI) intelligence specialist Bidgely is reporting its Home Energy Reports HER 2.0 Solution increases energy savings by 80 pct and enables utilities to design more accurate treatment groups for behavioral energy efficiency programs -- including lower base-load consumption users and low-income households.

Having partnered with numerous utilities and the largest energy retailers around the world, like TEPCO in Japan and Rocky Mountain Power and Duke Energy in North America, to improve behavioral energy efficiency programs, drive substantial $/kWh savings and expand the customer reach with the Bidgely HER 2.0 Solution, customer results have shown:

41GWhs of energy savings in less than one year at a 25 pct program cost savings and 80 pct "Likes" from customer satisfaction for the program;

2 times higher energy savings in peak months compared to paper-only based programs, as a result of multiple touch points and tailored messages throughout the customer journey;

40 pct expansion of treatment population at no additional cost through AI-powered personalized energy profiles of each home;

50 pct reduction in high bill calls and a correlation to an increased JD Power score of two quartiles.

Bidgely has over 15 energy patents, $50 million in funding, retains more than 30 data scientists, and serves residential customers around the world, according to the company. (Source: Bidgely, Oleans Times Herald, 7 April, 2020) Contact: Bidgely, Colin Gibbs, VP Strategy, www.bidgely.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Bidgely ,  Energy Efficiency,  

Ohio Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-03-04
In the Buckeye State, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) last week ruled that the state's energy-efficiency mandates for utilities will begin wrapping up on Sept. 30 and end completely on Dec. 31, 2020, as required under House Bill 6. That includes programs such as reduced-price LED bulbs, rebates on smart thermostats and energy-saving appliances, financial incentives to build energy-efficient homes and businesses, and free energy-efficiency and repair services for low-income households.

With the ruling, Ohio utilities have the option of seeking PUCO approval to voluntarily continue some or all of their energy-efficiency programs beyond 2020, but most haven’t yet decided their course of action.

FirstEnergy, whose subsidiaries provide power to Northeast Ohio and the Toledo area, has announced it will end two programs -- one $75 rebate for smart thermostats, and another that pays money for recycling old appliances.

AEP Ohio, which serves much of Central and Southeast Ohio, plans to continue at least some of its energy-efficiency programs, but has yet to determine the make-up and scope of the programs.

Dayton Power and Light has not yet decided which, if any, of its programs will continue past 2020.

In Southwestern Ohio, Duke Energycurrently offers a variety of energy-efficiency programs, including (among others) rebates for customers who install energy-saving devices, a monitor that offers bill credits to ratepayers who reduce energy usage during high demand periods, and discounted or even free LED lights, which cost anywhere between $1 and $8 per bulb.

As of last year, Ohioans were charged on their electric bills a fee averaging of $3.36 per month to support energy-efficiency programs, as well as programs (such as Duke’s energy monitors) designed to reduce power usage during peak demand times, according to the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund. That fee, as well as a renewable-energy mandate fee, has been eliminated by House Bill 6 and replaced with a new 85-cent surcharge that goes to bail out two Northern Ohio nuclear power plants owned by FirstEnergy Solutions, which changed its name to Energy Harbor late last month. (Source: Cleveland.com, 3 Mar.,2020)

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

Charlotte,Duke Energy
Date: 2020-02-28
In North Carolina, the city of Charlotte City Council reports it will participate in the construction of a 35-MW solar farm expected to generate sufficient power for 10,000 homes in Iredell County. The project, which will be developed and constructed by Carolina Solar Energy and Ecoplexus, is expected to be operating by 2022.

With 860,000 +- residents, Charlotte will be the most populous U.S. city to obtain renewable energy through a utility "green tariff" such as Duke's Green Source Advantage program that lets large customers negotiate directly with solar developers.

Under the program, customers enter into trilateral agreements among the customer, the solar developer and Duke. Duke buys the solar energy generated by the projects and credits the customer's account. The customer keeps renewable energy certificates that prove that a percentage of its energy use is from a renewable source. (Source: City of Charlotte, Tribune News Serv. 27 Feb.,2020) Contact: City of Charlotte, Heather Bolick, Energy and Sustainability Coordinator, www.charlottenc.gov; Duke Energy North Carolina, Stephen De May, Pres., www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Solar,  Renewable Energy,  

Duke Energy,Smithfield Foods, OpyimaBio
Date: 2020-01-15
In the Old Dominion State, Smithfield Foods Inc., in partnership with Duke Energy and OptimaBio LLC, reports it is now producing renewable natural gas (RNG) from the wastewater treatment system at its Tar Heel, N.C. pork processing facility.

The $14 million project produces approximately 140,000 dekatherms of RNG per year. The company also has "wastewater-to-energy" projects at its plants in Milan, Missouri; Grayson, Kentucky; and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. (Source: Smithfield Foods,, 13 Jan., 2020) Contact: Smithfield Foods, Ken Sullivan, Pres, CEO, Lisa Martin, (757) 365-1980, lvmartin@smithfield.com; Duke Energy North Carolina, Stephen De May, Pres., www.duke-energy.com; OptimaBio, LLC, Mark Maloney, CEO, www.pig.energy

More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG,  Methane,  OptmaBio,  Smithfield Foods,  Duke Energy,  RNG,  Manure-to-Fuel,  

Duke Energy,Smithfield Foods, OpyimaBio
Date: 2020-01-10
Smithfield Foods, OptimaBio LLC and Duke Energy North Carolina are reporting biofuel production at their $14 million hog waste-to-biofuel project at Smithfield's Tar Heel pork processing plant in North Carolina is now underway. The project can produce up to 140,000 dekatherms per year of renewable natural gas (RNG).

The Tar Heel project utilizes a gas upgrading and injection system operated by OptimaBio, LLC, a bioenergy project developer, which leverages the facility's 3 million gpd wastewater treatment system to collect and clean biogas through an existing on-site anaerobic digester and convert it into RNG.

Smithfield operates similar hog wastewater-to-energy projects at its Milan, Mo.; Grayson, Ky.; and Sioux Falls, S.D. facilities, which are used to power their modified steam boilers. (Source: Duke Energy, Smithfield Foods, Power Eng., Jan., 2020) Contact: Smithfield Foods, Ken Sullivan, Pres, CEO, Lisa Martin, (757) 365-1980, lvmartin@smithfield.com; Duke Energy North Carolina, Stephen De May, Pres., www.duke-energy.com; OptimaBio, LLC, Mark Maloney, CEO, www.pig.energy

More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG,  Methane,  OptmaBio,  Smithfield Foods,  Duke Energy,  RNG,  Manure-to-Fuel,  

Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2020-01-08
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy Renewables, a commercial business unit of Duke Energy, reports its 200-MW) Mesteno Windpower project in Starr County, Texas began commercial operation on Dec. 31, 2019. It is Duke Energy's fourth wind generation facility in Starr County and its eleventh in Texas.

The project's output will be sold into the ERCOT market and Duke Energy Renewables has entered into a long-term hedge agreement covering the majority of the expected wind energy production. The 200-MW Mesteño wind facility will generate sufficient power for about 60,000 average homes.

Duke Energy Renewables, a non-regulated unit of Duke Energy, operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., with a total electric capacity of 3,000 MW. Duke Renewables also operates energy storage and microgrid projects. (Source: Duke Energy News Center, 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres., www.duke-energy.com/renewable

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Wind,  

Dominion Energy,Open Road Renewables.
Date: 2019-11-04
In the Old Dominion State, Duke Energy is reporting plans to invest roughly $330 million in two Pittsylvania County renewable energy projects.

Of the total, $200 million is earmarked for a 500 mw combustion turbine power plant at the Southern Virginia Megasite at Berry Hill, in Pittsylvania County. The power plant is slated for completion and startup by April 2022.

A second investment of approximately $130 million is targeted for the 120 mw Maplewood Solar project northwest of Chatham. Dominion purchased the Maplewood Solar project from Austin, Texas-based Open Road Renewables which had obtained the necessary special use permit from Pittsylvania County zoning, but still requires Virginia Department of Environmental Quality approval. (Source: Dominion Energy, Danville Register & Bee , 3 Nov., 2019) Contact: Dominion Energy, Keith Windle, VP Business Development, www.dominionenergy.com; Open Road Renewables, 512-524-1195, www.openroadrenewables.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Dominion Energy,  Open Road Renewables.Solar,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2019-10-16
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy reports it is planning a 5-megawatt/5-megawatt-hour battery energy storage project to support the Anderson Civic Center in Anderson, South Carolina. The battery capacity should keep the center running for 30 hours without grid power, based on typical consumption, the utility said.

Subject to regulatory approval, the battery installation could be online in early 2021. The project, which is subject to regulatory approval, is in accord with Duke's recently released 15-year resource plan. (Source: Duke Energy, gtm, 14 Oct., 2019) Contact: Duke Energy North Carolina, Stephen De May, Pres., www.dukeenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Battery Energy Storage,  Duke Energy,  

Duke Energy,Sprint
Date: 2019-09-20
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy Renewables is reporting plans to construct and own a 182 MW wind farm in Nolan County, Texas after signing a 12-year virtual power purchase agreement with communications giant Sprint for the majority of the wind farm's power production. most of the power produced by the project.

Construction on the Maryneal Windpower project -- Duke Energy Renewables' eighth announced this year -- in is expected to get underway in early 2020 for commercial production starting by year-end 2020. (Source: Duke Energy Renewables, PR, Seeking Alpha, 18 Sept., 2019) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Wind,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2019-09-16
In Charlotte, the North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) is reported to have approved Duke Energy's Green Source Advantage (GSA) program enabling the company to expand renewable energy options for customers.

The GSA program give large energy users flexibility in selecting and negotiating all contract prices and terms directly with a renewable supplier of their choice, including the purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs) generated by that renewable facility. The GSA program will be available until the total capacity of 600 MW is fully subscribed. Of this 600-MW capacity, 100 MW will be set aside for military installations and 250 MW set aside for University of North Carolina institutions, according to North Carolina's Competitive Energy Solutions legislation. The remaining 250 MW will be reserved for large nonresidential customers -- 160 MW for Duke Energy Carolinas and 90 MW for Duke Energy Progress. Facilities that are used for the GSA program will be owned and operated by eligible renewable energy developers.

Duke Energy's $62 million solar rebate program for residential, commercial and nonprofit customers in North Carolina has helped 3,000 customers go solar in its first two years. Duke Energy will continue offering these rebates over the next three years. In 2018, Duke Energy launched a competitive bidding process for new solar capacity and connected over 500 MW of new solar capacity. To date in 2019, Duke Energy has contracted for more than 600 MW of new solar capacity. The company also offers a solar leasing program. (Source: Duke Energy North Carolina, , PRN, 15 Sept., 2019) Contact: Duke Energy North Carolina, Stephen De May, Pres., www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy North Carolina,  ,  Solar,  Renewable Energy Rebates,  

Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2019-09-09
Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy is reporting the closure of its previously announced sale of a minority interest in a portion of its commercial renewable energy portfolio owned and operated by its affiliate, Duke Energy Renewables, to the John Hancock Infrastructure Fund -- part of Manulife Investment Management and John Hancock Life Insurance Company. (Source: Duke Energy PR, 6 Sept., 2019) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Renewable Energy,  

Duke Energy,SolAmerica
Date: 2019-08-28
Duke Energy Renewables is reporting commissioning of 9 Georgia solar power plants totaling 14.1 MW under a partnership with Atlanta-based SolAmerica Energy. The nine projects, which range from 960 kW and 2.3 MW, were developed under an engineering, production and procurement (EPC) agreement between REC Solar, a unit of Duke Energy Renewables, and SolAmerica. The complex's 54,590 photovoltaic (PV) panels will generate electricity and renewable attributes that will be sold under a 35-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Georgia Power, as part of the latter's Renewable Energy Development Initiative. (Source: Duke Energy, Renewables, 26 Aug., 2019) Contact: Solamerica Energy, 404-351-8175, www.solamericaenergy.com; Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  Solar,  

Atlantic Power,Fortistar,CMS Energy
Date: 2019-08-16
In the Bay State, Dedham-based independent power producer Atlantic Power Corporation reports completion of its $20 million acquisition of the equity ownership interests held by AltaGas Power Holdings in Craven County Wood Energy in North Carolina and the Grayling Generating Station contracted biomass plants in Michigan.

The 48 MW Craven County Wood Energy facility has been in service since October 1990 . Atlantic Power acquired a 50 pct interest from AltaGas with the remaining 50 pct held by CMS Energy. Craven County burns wood waste, wood chips, poultry litter, forestry residues, mill waste, bark and sawdust, and has PPA with Duke Energy Carolinas.

In Michigan, the 37 MW Grayling Generating Station has been in service since June 1992 . Atlantic Power acquired a 30 pct interest from AltaGas , leaving Fortistar with 20 pct and CMS Energy with 50 pct. Grayling has a PPA with Consumers Energy. The plant burns wood waste from local mills, forestry residues, mill waste and bark. Both plants are operated by an affiliate of CMS Energy. (Source: Atlantic Power Corp., CNW Group, 14 Aug., 2019) Contact: Atlantic Power Corporation, (617) 977-2700, info@atlanticpower.com, www.atlanticpower.com; , Mark Comora, CEO, (914) 421-4937, MComora@fortistar.com, www.fortistar.com; CMS Energy, www.cmsenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Fortistar,  Atlantic Power,  Biomass,  Woody Biomass,  CMS Energy,  

Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2019-06-28
Duke Energy subsidiary Duke Energy Renewables reports its 150-MW North Rosamond solar project in Kern County, California, has begun commercial operation. The 1188 acre, 477,000 panel solar farm will generate sufficient power for 71,000 homes and is the largest in Duke Energy Renewables' fleet.

Electric power generated from the North Rosamond solar project is being sold to Southern California Edison (SCE) under a 15-year PPA. The facility was designed and completed by First Solar Electric California's engineering, procurement and construction subsidiary under a fixed-price EPC agreement. (Source: Duke Energy Renewables, T&D World, 26 June, 2019) Contact: Duke Energy Renewables, Rob Caldwell, Pres, (704) 594-6200, rob.caldwell@duke-energy.com, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy Renewables,  

REC Solar, Duke Energy Renewables
Date: 2019-06-21
In the Golden State, Duke Energy Renewables subsidiary REC Solar reports it is working with the Pleasanton Unified School District in Pleasanton, Calif., to utilize solar-plus-energy storage solutions to significantly cut emissions and save on energy costs.

The project will install 1 MW of solar carports and a 660 kWh battery energy storage system at Pleasanton Unified's Amador Valley High School for a $2.2 million projected energy costs savings over the term of a 25-year PPA. The installation will be financed by Duke Energy Renewables.

Duke Energy Renewables operates wind and solar generation facilities across the U.S., with a total electric capacity of 3,000 MW. (Source: Duke Energy Renewables, PR, 18 June, 2019) Contact: Duke Energy, www.duke-energy.com; REC Solar, Matt Walz, CEO, 805.471.0085, www.recsolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News REC Solar,  Solar,  Energy Storage,  Duke Energy Renewables,