ENERGY STAR
Date: 2020-08-03
The US DOE ENERGY STAR® program is reporting a new focus on helping the commercial baking industry cuts energy consumption and costs with improved energy efficiency. With the new focus, bakers can use the ENERGY STAR Guidelines for Energy Management to build a bakery-specific energy management program focused on best practices from the industry.

ENERGY STAR plant energy performance indicator (EPI) tools assess the energy performance of plants relative to similar plants and provide a 1 -- 100 ENERGY STAR score for a quick understanding of how the plant is performing. Plants receiving a score of 75 or higher are eligible to earn ENERGY STAR certification.

Download details on EPIs and Benchmarking Industrial Energy Performance HERE.

Download Energy Efficiency Improvement and Cost Saving Opportunities for the Baking Industry HERE. (Source: US DOE, ENERGY STAR, Aug., 2020) Contact: US DOE, ENERGY STAR, www.energystar.gov

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

Connecticut Green Bank
Date: 2020-08-03
The Rocky Hill, Conn.-based Connecticut Green Bank is offering flexible repayment options to new borrowers who use its Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing to make energy saving improvements.

The C-PACE program helps commercial, industrial, and non-profit property owners access affordable, long-term financing for qualifying energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades. The C-PACE loans are repaid through a voluntary assessment on the building owner's property tax bill.

The Green Bank's new repayment options are intended to provide relief to property owners impacted by COVID-19. The repayment options will provide borrowers with immediate increased cash flow by significantly reducing operating expenses in the near term and deferring all or a portion of payments until a later date and more stable financial conditions.

New borrowers will have the option of deferring their first two payments on a new C-PACE assessment and/or making interest only payments for up to three years on a new C-PACE assessment. (Source: Conn. Green Bank. PR, Aug., 2020) Contact: C-PACE, www.cpace.com/offer; Connecticut Green Bank, Mackey Dykes, VP Financing Programs, 860-563-0015, www.ctgreenbank.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Connecticut Green Bank ,  C-PACE,  Energy Efficiency,  

European Investment Bank
Date: 2020-08-03
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is reporting it will provide &euro95 million to finance roughly 40 projects in Barcelona that aim to support climate change mitigation and adaptation in the city of 5.58 million residents.

In addition to strengthening the city's climate resilience, the funding will target approximately 20 projects within the city classified as "climate vulnerable." All new social infrastructure work will focus on zero-energy buildings, initiatives to improve energy efficiency, and reduce power consumption in public and municipal buildings.

Barcelona declared a climate emergency in January 2020 and the investments now being promoted are in line with the declaration's objectives. (Source: EIB, Eurasia Review, 3 Aug., 2020) Contact: EIB, www.eib.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Investment Bank,  Climate Change,  ,  

Citigroup
Date: 2020-07-31
NYC-headquartered banking giant Citigroup Inc., the 4th largest US bank by assets, reports it aims to lend $250 billion for low-carbon renewable energy, clean technology, water quality and conservation, sustainable transportation, green buildings, energy efficiency, circular economy and sustainable agriculture and land use over the next five years.

The bank noted it is working to measure, manage and reduce the climate risk and impact of its portfolio of clients and to that end is is participating in the development and rollout of the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials, a framework that will help it measure the carbon footprint of its lending portfolios. Additionally, Citi is testing the methodology for the 2016 Paris Agreement Capital Transition Assessment, a tool that will enable it to look at its most carbon-intensive sectors and clients and measure their progress toward reducing global warming.

Citigroup is also aiming for a 45 pct CO2 emission reduction reduction in its operations by 2025 from a 2010 baseline and, to that end, aims to only use renewable electricity to power its facilities globally by the end of 2020.

In 2019, Citigroup assets totaled $1.951 trillion, equity totaled $193 billion and net income came in at $19.471 billion. (Source: Citigroup, PR, MarketScreener, 29 July, 2020) Contact: Citigroup, www.citigroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Citigroup,  Low Carbon Energy,  

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
Date: 2020-07-31
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) reports it is extending a €8 million loan to help the city of Sarajevo (pop. 360,000) increase city building energy efficiency. The funding is in addition to a €2 million EU grant for the refurbishment of 40 school and health buildings in the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The energy efficiency works are a priority project under the Green City Action Plan for the Sarajevo Canton. The expected energy savings are estimated to be around 13.7 GWh and would result in 4,774 tpy of CO2 savings. Energy efficiency measures will include the introduction of cleaner and more efficient heating, better insulation, better lighting and overall improvements.

The 43-member EBRD Green Cities initiative is designed to help cities articulate a sustainable development vision and their strategic objectives as well as define actions and investments necessary to address priority environmental issues. (Source: EBRD, New Europe, 30 July, 2020) Contact: European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, www.ebrd.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Bank for Reconstruction and Development,  EBRD,  Energy Efficiency ,  

Property Assessed Clean Energy,PACE
Date: 2020-07-31
Commercial landlords and nonprofits in 22 Massachusetts communities have a new option for financing energy-efficiency upgrades. The Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Massachusetts program applies to commercial and industrial buildings, multifamily buildings with five or more units and buildings owned by nonprofits.

The PACE program, which is administered by MassDevelopment and the Department of Energy Resources, requires that energy savings pay for the cost of improvements. Projects can be financed up to 20 years.

The PACE program is available to building owners in the following participating communities: Acton, Agawam, Amesbury, Barnstable, Devens, Erving, Fall River, Fitchburg, Franklin, Gardner, Greenfield, Lexington, New Bedford, North Adams, Northampton, Orange, Pittsfield, Randolph, Rockland, Wendell, West Springfield and Yarmouth. Specifics on the guidelines and application materials are available at massdevelopment.com/pace. (Source: Various Media, Banker & Tradesman, 30 July, 2020)Contact: C-PACE Alliance, Cliff Kellogg (202) 744-1984, ckellogg@c-pacealliance.com, www.cpacealliance.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Property Assessed Clean Energy,  PACE,  Energy Efficiency,  

Climate Change
Date: 2020-07-31
The 2020 US Democratic presidential presumptive candidate Joe Biden's campaign has released the following position on clean energy and climate change:

Democrats commit to eliminating carbon pollution from power plants by 2035.

Wind and solar energy will be increased dramatically through the installation of 500 million solar panels and 60,000 made-in-America wind turbines.

Any clean energy infrastructure financed with federal support "through the tax code" should include robust wage and labor requirements.

Fossil fuel subsidies will be repealed.

California's primacy in Clean Air Act regulation of cars and trucks will be recognized and protected.

Oil and gas methane pollution will be reduced by the application of "robust" federal standards and targeted support for repairing and replacing aging distribution systems.

By 2030, all new buildings will achieve the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Within five years, the Democrats will "incentivize" tens of billions of dollars in private-sector investments to retrofit the energy efficiency of four million buildings.

The country's entire fleet of school buses will transition to zero-emission buses to reduce harmful air pollution within five years.

The US will rejoin the the Paris Climate Agreement. A new Executive Order should be issued on climate and environmental Justice. There will be a strong emphasis on building environmental justice governmental institutions and practices. An environmental justice fund will be created to make "historic investments" in low-income communities, and remediating Superfund and other contaminated sites will address other issues afflicting these communities. Democrats will employ screening and mapping tools to ensure racial and socio-economic equity in federal climate, energy and infrastructure programs.

Fossil fuel companies will be held accountable for cleaning up abandoned mine lands ,oil and gas wells and industrial facilities so they can be safely "repurposed," especially in the coal country.

Innovative technologies will be advanced that create cost-effective pathways for industries to decarbonize, including carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) and "advanced nuclear" that eliminates risks associated with conventional nuclear technology.

America's natural carbon sinks on public lands will be increased by ensuring 30 percent of our lands and waters are conserved by 2030.

A new "climate test" will be applied to ensure that all major domestic and international infrastructure projects that require federal approval will avoid or minimize climate impacts, including impacts from export terminals.

The Federal Government should be reorganized by transforming the CEQ into a Council on Climate Change; establish a new office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice; create an Office of Climate Mobilization in the White House; establish a White House Council on frontline Environmental Justice where community and national leaders would inform the design and execution of climate change laws, policies and programs.

Editor's Note: To ensure unbiased and equal coverage to all candidates , this publication will provide detailed coverage of the incumbent Republican Donald Trump's position on clean energy and climate change if and when his position paper is released.

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

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-07-31
The 2020 US Democratic presumptive presidential candidate Joe Biden's position paper on clean energy and climate change includes the following energy efficiency measures:

"By 2030, all new buildings will achieve the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Within five years, the Democrats will 'incentivize' tens of billions of dollars in private-sector investments for energy efficiency retrofits for four million buildings."

Editor's Note -- To ensure unbiased and equal coverage to all candidates, this publication will provide detailed coverage of the incumbent Republican Donald Trump's position on clean energy,climate change and energy efficiency if and when his position paper is ever released.

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

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,  

Landsec
Date: 2020-07-29
In the UK, London-based property developer Landsec is reporting progress in its plans for what aims to be the UK's first net zero carbon commercial building --The Forge -- a 139,000 sq ft office development in Southwark, London. The project aimes to be the first UK commercial building to meet UK Green Building Council's (UKGBC) net zero carbon buildings framework and associated energy performance targets. Landsec notes all future developments will be built to, and operate in line with, UKGBC's net zero carbon buildings framework.

In November, Landsec became the first UK REIT to align its carbon reduction target to a 1.5 degree C pathway of global warming. The externally approved science-based target will see Landsec reduce absolute carbon emissions by 70 pct from a 2014 baseline over the next ten years aimed at becoming a net zero carbon business by 2030. Landsec is one of the largest real estate companies in Europe with a £12.8 billion portfolio spanning 24 million sq ft of retail, leisure, workspace and residential hubs, with a growing focus on London. (Source: Landsec, Pr, July, 2020) Contact: Landsec, Mark Allen, CEO, +44 (0) 20 7413 9000, enquiries@landsec.com, www.landsec.com; UKGBC, Julie Hirigoyen, info@ukgbc.org, www.ukgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  UK Green Building Council news,  

National Grid ESO
Date: 2020-07-29
According to a new research report from London-headquartered National Grid ESO, carbon emission from the UK's electricity systems could turn negative as early as 2033 and reach zero carbon emissions by 2050 or earlier with "immediate action across all key policy areas and technologies" -- fundamental changes for energy consumers, particularly in heating, transportation, and energy efficiency.

National Grid expects a significant boom in renewable energy projects, an extensive rollout of electric vehicles, significant transformation and reductions in consumer energy consumption, and better energy efficiency. The report also notes the on-going Covid-19 pandemic will have an impact on the energy landscape in the future. (Source: National Grid ESO, PR, July, 2020) Contact: National Grid ESO, Mark Herring, Head of Strategy, +44 (0) 1926 65 3000, www.nationalgrideso.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Grid ESO,  Carbon Emissions,  UK Carbon Emissions,  

Georgia Power
Date: 2020-07-29
Southern Company subsidiary Georgia Power reports its Smart Neighborhood Initiative -- a real-world R&D project -- has been recognized by the Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) as part of its annual awards that celebrate innovation and collaboration of utilities, industry players and individuals shaping the future of energy. The initiative was included in Southern Company's designation as a 2020 SEPA Utility Business Models Power Player of the Year.

Georgia's first-of-a-kind Smart Neighborhood, located in Atlanta, includes 46 technology-enhanced townhomes equipped with battery backed rooftop solar arrays, optimal insulation for maximum efficiency, advanced heating and cooling systems, LED lighting, home automation, including smart thermostats, smart locks and voice control.

The Smart Neighborhood is a real-world research and development (R&D) project, including a supporting partnership with the Southern Company Energy Innovation Center. The company collaborated with U.S. DOE Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) on the initiatives. The information and data collected from the distributed energy resources will provide researchers valuable operational experience as the company continues to evaluate microgrids along with residential battery storage and rooftop solar. Information from the HVAC systems, heat pump water heaters and other technologies will help inform new programs and services for customers.

Georgia Power also offers a full suite of smart-home options, which includes easy access to products and services to help make customers' homes more energy efficient and connected. The company brings together popular products in the Smart Neighborhood, including the latest in smart thermostats and smart home products such as smart filters, lighting, door locks, light switches, vents, smoke alarms and doorbells, to a single online portal.

Download Georgia Power Smart Neighborhood Initiative HERE. (Source: Georgia Power, PR, 28 July, 2020) Contact: SEPA, www.sepapower.org; Georgia Power, www.georgiapower.com

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

US DOE
Date: 2020-07-27
In Washington, the U.S. DOE is reporting approximately $64 million in Fiscal Year 2020 funding for 18 projects that will support the H2@Scale vision for affordable hydrogen production, storage, distribution, and use. These projects will fuel the next round of research, development and demonstration (RD&D) activities under H2@Scale's multi-year initiative.

The projects will be funded through the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy's (EERE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO). The projects will feature collaborations with EERE's Advanced Manufacturing Office on manufacturing reliable and affordable electrolyzers and with EERE's Vehicle Technologies Office on developing low-cost carbon fiber for hydrogen storage tanks. Other areas of focus include identifying durable and cost-effective fuel cell systems and components for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

The funding will also spur demonstrations of large-scale hydrogen utilization at ports and data centers and across industrial sectors like steel making, and help build a comprehensive training program for a robust hydrogen and fuel cells workforce in the U.S. (Source: US DOE, PR, July 20, 2020) Contact: US DOE , H2@Scale, www.energy.gov/eere/fuelcells/h2scale

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hydrogen,  US DOE,  

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries,
Date: 2020-07-27
MHI Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co ., division of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) firm Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, is reporting receipt of an order from Clean Authority of Tokyo to upgrade equipment and energy efficiency of the authority's 900 metric tpd, 22-Mw Minato waste-to-energy plant.

In addition to plant heavy equipment renovations and replacements as needed, the facility will also be upgraded to utilize new motors and inverters for electric components to increase energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions by around 4 pct annually. The ¥7.6 billion ($72.2 million U.S.) project is scheduled for completion in January 2023. (Source: MHI Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Contact: MHI Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., www.mhiec.co.jp

More Low-Carbon Energy News Mitsubishi Heavy Industries news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Southwest Energy Efficiency Project
Date: 2020-07-27
A new report from the Boulder, Colorado-based Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP) guides local governments through policy options and pathways to electrify new buildings -- a key strategy for meeting climate and public health goals. The report -- Building Electrification: How Cities and Counties are Implementing Electrification Policies -- with Adoptable Code Language -- provides insight to local governments seeking to encourage more all-electric buildings as a way to improve energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and cut GHG emissions in the built environment.

The report notes that with the electric grid increasingly powered by renewables and with advanced technologies like heat pumps and induction stoves now widely available, most experts agree all electric is the quickest way to zero-carbon buildings.

Cities and counties across the country, large and small, are evaluating, adopting, and implementing building electrification ordinances proving that electrification is not only necessary, but doable. Electrification policies range from simple incentives to all-electric requirements for new construction, with several intermediary options such as electric-ready or electric-preferred.

SWEEP is a public-interest organization promoting greater energy efficiency in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. (Source: Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, Website News Release, 27 July, 2020) Contact: Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, Jim Meyers, Buildings Program Director, 303.447.0078, info@swenergy.org, www.swenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Southwest Energy Efficiency Project,  Energy Efficiency,  

SUNY New Platz, USGBC
Date: 2020-07-27
In the Empire State, the State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz is reporting it's new, 2-story, 19,500 sq-ft Engineering Innovation Hub (EIH) building has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Gold Certification.

The project's $13.5 million energy efficiency features include: building envelope and mechanical systems that have cut energy costs 28 pct; landscape water conservation and reuse features; SUNY New Platz, white reflective TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membrane roof system with added insulation to improve the R-value; energy efficient LED lighting with motion sensors; proximity to public transportation; water saving plumbing fixtures; and low-VOC emission locally sourced building materials. (Source: School Construction News, July, 2020) Contact: SUNY New Platz, www.newplatz.edu; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News SUNY New Platz,  USGBC,  LEED Gold,  Energy Efficiency,  

Ontario Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-07-24
As part of its Climate Change Action Plan, the Province of Ontario plans to invest up to $900 million in grant funding over 4 years to retrofit social housing apartments and multi-tenant buildings with energy efficient and renewable energy technologies.

The province is also planning to help improve efficiency in private residential apartment buildings by investing up to $400 million in an incentive program that will offer rebates or grants toward the purchase and installation of energy efficient technologies, such as boiler replacement and lighting retrofits. The plan will also prohibits landlords from passing along retrofit costs to tenants.

Download the Ontario Climate Change Action Plan details HERE. (Source: Province of Ontario, HVAC, Mag. July, 2020) Contact: Province of Ontario, www.ontario.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Energy Efficiency,Task Force For Resilient Recovery
Date: 2020-07-24
An independent panel of experts making up the Canadian Task Force for a Resilient Recovery has released a preliminary report that includes "5 Bold Moves for a Resilient Recovery", the first of which is a proposed $27.3 billion federal investment in climate-resilient and energy-efficient buildings. The building retrofit package serves as the keystone of a proposed total $49.9 billion clean economic recovery package.

The task force recommends the following related to improving the efficiency of the country's building stock:

Expand public-private financing facilities for building retrofits using a $13 billion public investment to leverage $35 billion in private capital through de-risking and co-investment strategies.

Spend $10 billion on expanding existing provincial and municipal building retrofit programs.

Invest $1.25 billion in workforce development for energy efficiency and climate resiliency.

Use $2 billion to select diverse large-scale demonstration projects through a competitive process, and apply innovative techniques to significantly reduce the cost, time and customer disruption of deep energy retrofits.

Introduce new national model building code incorporating net-zero and resiliency measures in the next year, while also providing incentives for provincial uptake; and invest $2 million to integrate a "ResiliGuide" rating to measure the climate resilience of buildings.

Create an Indigenous Infrastructure Fund (a rotating $1 billion-per-year non-lapsing fund) to bolster investment in sustainable infrastructure in Indigenous communities across Canada. (Source: Task Force For Resilient Recovery, Gov. of Canada, HVAC Mag., 22 July, 2020) Contact: Task Force For Resilient Recovery, www.recoverytaskforce.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Apple
Date: 2020-07-24
In its 2020 Environmental Progress Report, multinational technology giant Apple announced a 10-year roadmap to reduce emissions by 75 pct by 2030 while developing innovative carbon removal solutions for the remaining 25 pct of its comprehensive footprint.

The company is already carbon neutral for corporate emissions worldwide. By achieving the 2030 goal, the company would have brought its entire carbon footprint to net zero 20 years sooner than IPCC targets.

To that end, Apple will expand investments in energy efficiency and identify new ways to lower energy use at its corporate facilities and help its supply chain make the same transition. Through a new partnership with Apple, the US-China Green Fund will invest $100 million in accelerated energy efficiency projects for Apple's suppliers.

In 2019, the company invested in energy efficiency upgrades to over 6.4 million square feet of new and existing buildings, lowering electricity needs by nearly one-fifth and saving the company $27 million.

Download Apple's 2020 Environmental Progress Report HERE. (Source: Apple, July, 2020) Contact: Apple, www.apple.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Apple,  Energy Efficiency,  

DOE EERE
Date: 2020-07-22
The U.S. DOE reports its Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) is providing $139 million in funding for 55 projects that will research advanced batteries, electrification, and manufacturing in support of DOE's Energy Storage Grand Challenge -- a strategy to sustain U.S. global leadership in energy storage technology, utilization, and exports.

The projects, which will be managed by EERE's Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO), will aim to advance lithium-ion batteries using silicon-based anodes, reduce the need for critical minerals such as rare-earth materials, accelerate the development of smart charging technologies, improve efficiency for light-duty gasoline engines, increase demonstrations and infrastructure for advanced technology vehicles, develop lightweight and high-performance fiber-reinforced polymer composites for vehicle applications, and support mobility technologies such as connected and automated vehicles, as well as innovations in transit. (Source: US DOE EERE, PR, 21 July, 2020) Contact: DOE EERE Vehicle Technologies Office, www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/vehicle-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News DOE EERE,  Energy Storage,  Lithium-Ion Battery,  

Ameresco
Date: 2020-07-22
In the Bay State, Framinghan-based energy efficiency and renewable enrgy specialist Ameresco, Inc., reports it has been selected by the City of Lawrence to complete a large-scale municipal energy efficient LED Streetlight energy conservation project.

Self-funded by an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC), the project comes at no upfront cost to the City and will involve replacing more than 3,800 lighting fixtures with new energy efficient Light Emitting Diodes (LED). The total project will accrue $12.2 million in cost savings over the contract term. The project is slated for completion in September 2020.

Details on Ameresco's LED street and area lighting projects HERE. (Source: Ameresc, PR, Yahoo, 22 July, 2020) Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  LED,   Street Light.LED Light,  

McDonald's
Date: 2020-07-22
Fast food giant McDonald's has unveiled a new global flagship restaurant in Orlando, Florida that is aiming for the "ultimate efficiency" in energy usage and performance.

The new facility will generate sufficient renewable energy on-site to cover 100 pct of its annual energy needs. McDonald's will also use the flagship as a learning hub to test energy efficiency measures for future operations. Data and learnings from the new restaurant will also support McDonald's global sustainability efforts, including progressing toward the company's science-based target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 36 pct in restaurants and offices by 2030 compared to a 2015 base year.

The new flagship restaurant features: an 8,000 square-foot , 1,066 panel solar roof; photovoltaic glass panels integrated throughout the building, 1,700 square feet of green, plant-covered "living walls", low flow plumbing fixtures; waste water capture and reuse; and louvers that open and close automatically to inhale cool air in and exhale warm air.

To solidify the restaurant's Net Zero Energy status, McDonald's will also pursue the International Living Future Institute's Zero Energy Certification over the next year. (Source: McDonald's, PR, Catering Insight, July, 2020)

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

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities
Date: 2020-07-22
In Trenton, the New Jersey Clean Energy Equity Act (SB 2484) that creates the Office of Clean Energy Equity within the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), is reported to have passed the New Jersey Senate Environment and Energy Committee.

The legislation, which gives low and mid-income community residents equal access to clean energy , would allow $50 million a year for energy efficiency and renewable energy and energy storage projects and technologies totaling more than 400 MW in low-income communities within 10 years. The legislation also requires new construction in low-income communities to be built "solar ready" and recommends the establishment of solar programs to benefit 250,000 low-income households by 2030 as well as clean energy, energy efficiency and energy storage training programs. (Source: NJPUB, Daily Energy Insider, 22 July, 2020) Contact: NJ BPU, Joseph L. Fiordaliso, Pres., 800-624-0241, www.bpu.state.nj.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News New Jersey Board of Public Utilities,  

Vodafone
Date: 2020-07-20
In the UK, Berkshire-based telecommunications firm Vodafone Group Plc reports it remains committed to improving the energy efficiency of its base station sites and in its data and switching centres, which together account for 95 pct of the company's total global energy consumption. During 2020, Vodafone invested €77 million in energy efficiency and renewable projects, which led to annual energy savings of 186GWh. In 2019, the company achieving a 38.5 pct reduction in the total amount of GHG emissions per petabyte (PB) of mobile data carried.

Vodafone's energy efficiency initiatives are focused on sourcing and implementing more efficient network equipment, reducing energy demand by installing lower-energy power and cooling technologies, and cutting energy use by decommissioning and replacing legacy equipment. Vodafone's energy efficiency initiatives include:

Smart energy meters that enable businesses, municipal authorities and households to monitor, manage and reduce their energy use. Worldwide, Vodafone has over 12 million smart meter connections using its IoT technology, saving an estimated 1.6 million tonnes of CO2e.

Smart cities networked intelligently to improve the efficiency of energy-intensive services such as public transport, public road networks and street lighting. For example, in the city of Guadalajara, Spain, 13,500 LED lights were connected to a central management system, reducing street lighting energy consumption by 68 pct.

(Source: Vodafone Group Plc, IoT Business News, July, 2020) Contact: Vodafone Group Plc., www.vodafone.com

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

Canada Green Building Council
Date: 2020-07-20
In Halifax, the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and Mines (NSDEM), along with program partners Efficiency Nova Scotia and the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) are touting the recently launched Nova Scotia Energy Benchmarking Pilot Program aimed at helping building owners and operators reduce energy consumption and transition to the mandatory building energy labeling initiative announced by the federal government in the Pan Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

The Nova Scotia pilot, which is funded by Natural Resources Canada and NSDEM, plans to enroll 25 buildings in year one, 150 in year two, and 200 in its third year.

By using the free and secure web-based tool, ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®, owners of mixed-use, residential, commercial, and institutional buildings can discover the operational efficiencies of their properties, and benchmark against others in the sector to find ways to optimize energy and save money. (Source: Canada Green Building Council, July, 2020) Contact: Canada Canada Green Building Council, (866) 941-1184, info@cagbc.org, www.cagbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Benchmarking,  Energy Efficiency,  Canada Green Building Council ,  

Grid4C, Trilliant
Date: 2020-07-20
Cary, North Carolina-based Smart Grid and Smart City IoT solutions specialist Trilliant Networks reports it is partnering with Austin, Texas headquartered Grid4C to deploy its AI-powered solutions to Trilliant's smart metering platform.

Grid4C's AI grid edge solutions provide energy managers with real-time predictions and actionable insights for both their operations and customer-facing applications. When combined with Trilliant's communications and edge device integrations for metering, distribution automation, street lighting, environmental monitoring, and much more, the platform delivers valuable aggregated data for applications.

The data analytics further enhance the visibility of operational efficiency goals, improve proactive management of devices and assets, deliver insights into new revenue streams, and enhance security, enabling business outcomes and customer success.(Source: Trilliant Networks, PR, 20 July, 2020) Contact: Trilliant Networks, 919.495.6111, www.trilliant.com; Grid4C, Dr. Noa Ruschin-Rimini, CEO, 512-960-0684, www.grid4c.som

More Low-Carbon Energy News Grid4C news,   Trilliant news,  Smart Meter news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Canada Green Building Council
Date: 2020-07-20
New Nova Scotia energy benchmarking pilot to help building owners manage energy InIIiHalifax, the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and Mines (NSDEM), along with program partners Efficiency Nova Scotia and the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) are touting their recently launched Nova Scotia Energy Benchmarking Pilot Program aimed at helping building owners and operators reduce energy consumption and transition to the mandatory building energy labeling initiative announced by the federal government in the Pan Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

The Nova Scotia pilot is funded by Natural Resources Canada and NSDEM, supports building owners The Program plans to enroll 25 buildings in year one, 150 in year two, and 200 in year three.

By using the free and secure web-based tool, ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®, owners of mixed-use, residential, commercial, and institutional buildings can discover the operational efficiencies of their properties, and benchmark against others in the sector to find ways to optimize and save money. (Source: Canada Green Building Council, July, 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Canada Green Building Council news,  Energy Benchmark news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Cook County Illinois
Date: 2020-07-17
In Illinois, Cook County has released its 100 pct renewables by 2030 Clean Energy Plan and achieving a 45pct reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and making County-owned facilities carbon neutral by 2050. To that end, the Plan calls for:

reducing carbon emissions through energy efficiency at County-owned buildings and maintaining the reductions through monitoring, education and other best practices;

renewing the County's electricity supply through on-site solar energy generation, procurement of renewable energy and energy storage; and

supporting the Clean Energy Plan action steps through policies such as new building standards for County facilities.

The County has begun implementing elements of the Plan and already reduced its GHG emissions by roughly one-third since 2010, primarily through energy efficiency. Solar installations are being designed for county buildings and lighting and a comprehensive building automation system upgrades are underway.

Download the Cook County Clean Energy Plan HERE. (Source: Cook County, IndiaPost, July, 2020) Contact: Cook County, Toni Preckwinkle, Pres., (312) 443-5500, www,cookcountyil.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  Clean Energy,  Energy Efficiency,  Climate Change,  

KB Homes, ENERGY STAR
Date: 2020-07-17
KB Home is reporting receipt of a record 21 EPA ENERGY STAR® Market Leader Awards in 2020 for energy-efficient construction and providing home buyers significant value through comfort, durability and energy utility bill savings. To date, KB Home has delivered more than 140,000 ENERGY STAR certified new homes.

KB Home's ENERGY STAR certified new homes are up to 20 pct more energy efficient than standard new homes built to code and are tested and certified by independent third-party inspectors.

The home builder estimates that its sustainably designed homes have cumulatively reduced energy utility bills for its homeowners by $780 million. Additionally, to date, the company has lowered its customers' CO2 emissions by an estimated 5 billion pounds, the equivalent of removing 490,000 cars from the road for one year, according to the release. (Source: KB Homes, PR, July, 2020) Contact: KB Homes, Jeffrey Mezger, CEO, Craig LeMessurier, 925-580-1583, clemessurier@kbhome.com, www. kbhome.com/sustainability; ENERGY STAR, www.energystar.gov .

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

Ameresco
Date: 2020-07-17
In the Bay State, Framingham-headquartered energy efficiency and renewable specialist Ameresco, Inc. reports it has partnered with the Bethel School District in Eugene, Oregon, on a comprehensive energy efficiency project at several of district's locations.

The improvements Ameresco will implement under this energy savings performance contract (ESPC) come at no upfront cost to the district, and will be paid for over a 16-year contract term with the guaranteed cost savings they generate.

Financed with a 2.37 pct loan, the $3.6 million project includes interior and exterior energy efficient LRD lighting upgrades, HVAC control improvements, low-flow plumbing, and other upgrades aimed at reducing the District's utility and operational costs as well as reducing its carbon footprint when completed in 2021. (Source: Ameresco, Framingham Source, 17 July, 2020)Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, Exec. VP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  

American Gas Association
Date: 2020-07-17
Natural gas utilities invested $1.47 billion -- $3.8 million per day -- in energy efficiency programs in 2018, according to a new report by the American Gas Association (AGA).

According to the report, natural gas utilities funded 132 natural gas efficiency programs in the U.S. and Canada in 2018 for a total investment of $1.47 billion -- an 8 pct jump from 2016 and a 20 pct increase from 2012. This includes programs to install tighter-fitting windows and doors, better insulation, and purchase more efficient natural gas appliances. One-quarter of their budget was spent on low-income efficiency programs, assisting over 214,581 participants in 2018. Further, more than 66,000 commercial customers and 72,000 industrial program customers were enrolled in natural gas efficiency programs that year.

Download AGA Natural Gas Efficiency Programs details HERE. (Source: American Gas Association , Website, 13 July, 2020) Contact: American Gas Association, Karen Harbert, CEO, 202-824-7000, www.aga.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Gas Association news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

EIG, Modern Energy
Date: 2020-07-17
Washington, DC-headquartered institutional investor EIG Global Energy Partners LLC is reporting a $100 million loan facility to Durham, North Carolina based energy efficiency and storage specialist holding company Modern Energy. Modern Energy reportedly has partnership firms such as Faro Energy , Upside Energy and American Efficient, which manages energy efficiency assets in the U.S..

EIG Global Energy Partners specializes in private investments in the energy generation and infrastructure sector, with more than $22 billion under management. Its investors include pension plans, insurance companies, endowments, foundations and sovereign wealth funds in the U.S., Asia and Europe. (Source: EIG Global Energy Partners, Power Eng., 17 July, 2020) Contact: EIG Global Energy Partners LLC, Andrew Ellenbogen, Managing Director, (202) 600-3300, www.eigpartners.com; Modern Energy, info@modern.energy, 919-590-0327, www.modern.energy

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

Tampa Electric
Date: 2020-07-15
In the Sunshine State, Tampa Electric is reporting the launch of more than 30 new and updated energy-efficiency programs for its customers.

For residential customers, the new Energy Star Smart Thermostat program will offer a rebate up to $50 for installing a qualifying smart thermostat in their home. Also new is the Energy Star Pool Pump program, which provides a rebate up to $350 for installing a high-efficiency pool pump. The utility is also updating its Prime Time Plus load-management program that will use its smart meters to control a customer's air handler, water heater, and/or pool pump at times of high energy use.

For commercial customer the Facility Energy Management System program provides a rebate of up to $25,000 for installing a system that enables the customer to reduce energy consumption and demand. Also, the Smart Thermostat program will offer a rebate of up to $4,500 for installing smart thermostats to help reduce demand and the Variable Frequency Drive Control for Compressors program will give a $50 per horsepower rebate for installing qualifying equipment on a customer's new or existing refrigerant or air compressor motors.

Additionally, the company is ramping up the Integrated Renewable Energy System which will incorporate an 800-KW PV solar array, two 250-kW batteries, and several vehicle and industrial truck battery-charging stations. This pilot program will be used to study its performance and to maximize energy-saving benefits. Tampa Electric also will expand the existing energy education program to include renewable energy education for both residential and commercial customers. (Source: Tampa Electric, July, 2020) Contact: Tampa Electric, www.tampaelectric.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tampa Electric,  Energy Efficiency,  

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-07-15
In the Keystone State, Council Rock School District in Newton reports receipt of a $1,641,916 matching-fund grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority's Alternative and Clean Energy High Performance Building program. The money will be used to upgrade portions of two schools to USGBC LEED Gold certification for greater energy efficiency reduced energy costs.

The planned energy saving features include geothermal heating and cooling, energy-efficient lighting, automated energy control systems, low-flow water fixtures, occupancy-based temperature and lighting, an 85 kW solar PV array, and an improved thermal envelope.

The High Performance Building Program provides financial assistance in the forms of grants and loan funds to underwrite the cost premiums associated with the design and construction or major renovation of high performance buildings across Pennsylvania. The program is managed within the DCED Office of Business Financing. (Source: Newton Patch, 14 July, 2020) Contact: Pennsylvania Commonwealth Financing Authority Alternative and Clean Energy High Performance Building program, dced.pa.gov/programs-funding/commonwealth-financing-authority-cfa/energy-programs; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  USGBC,  

Fairbanks Energy Services
Date: 2020-07-15
Hingham, Mass.-based Fairbanks Energy Services, a full-service design/build energy efficiency firm and developer of comprehensive commercial and industrial (C&I) projects, reports completion of an interior LED lighting project at one of WernerCo's Illinois-based, equipment manufacturing facilities.

Fairbanks Energy ugraded of more then 1,750 outdated, inefficient lighting units to LED for an expected 1,473,000 kWh cut in energy consumption and an annual $156,000 savings. (Source: Fairbanks Energy Services, PR, July, 2020) Contact: Fairbanks Energy Services, Rob Golden, VP Midwest Region , Caroline Haley, Marketing Manager, (978) 394-8670, caroline.haley@fairbanksenergy.com, info@fairbanksenergy.com, www.fairbanksenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Fairbanks Energy Services,  LED LIght,  Energy Efficiency,  

Excelon
Date: 2020-07-15
In Chicago, Excelon Corp and the Exelon Foundation, an independent not-for-profit, have selected 10 startups to receive a combined $1 million in direct funding to develop new technologies to mitigate and build resiliency to the impacts of climate change in the inaugural year of the company's $20 million Climate Change Investment Initiative (2c2iSM).

The Exelon Foundation invests directly in projects and people helping to address climate change mitigation and build resiliency to health and environmental pressures in under-resourced communities within Exelon's service area. Startup applicants were also required to demonstrate how their projects would meaningfully advance state and local jurisdictions' own sustainability goals under the US Climate Alliance.

Of the startups selected in the first round of funding, 50 pct are minority or women-owned businesses, 60 pct of the projects are focused on greenhouse gas mitigation, 40 pct are addressing climate change resiliency and adaptation. First-round startups will receive $100,000 each from the Exelon Foundation. They are:

ATP-MD, a Maryland-based startup with two patented and cost-effective processes that generate multiple environmental benefits using specially-bred, non-evasive plants (bio-crops) and their resulting biomass;

BlocPower, a software platform developer for analyzing, financing, monitoring and managing clean energy projects, allowing building owners to identify and complete energy efficiency and electrification upgrades in urban communities.

Dynamhex, developer of a software platform leveraging complex energy consumption data that enables close collaboration among a range of city, community and utility stakeholders to achieve local carbon-reduction goals.

Greenprint Partners reduces water pollution and flooding by working with water utilities and landowners to design, build, finance and maintain high-impact green storm water infrastructure (GSI).

GrowFlux, a horticultural tech company that specializes in data-driven cultivation technology and offers an ecosystem of commercial-scale, wireless controls and sensors enable emerging indoor farms and automated greenhouses.

NETenergy, a Chicago-based hybrid energy storage/air conditioner technology specialist with the potential to reduce peak energy demand by over 50 pct, reduce peak energy consumption by 20 pct, and reduce overall energy consumption by more than 10 pct over standard air conditioners.

New Ecology, developer of a remote monitoring and optimization (ReMO) system to improve the performance of buildings with central boilers for increased efficiency and reduced utility costs.

Propagate Ventures developed an analytics and project development platform that reduce the cost and provide the resources needed for agroforestry, which is the strategic integration of fruit, nut and timber trees with agriculture crops to ensure long term resiliency.

Radiator Labs invented the Cozy™, a wireless, low-cost and easily installed retrofit that drops on top of steam heat radiators, providing a solution to the chronic problem of uneven heating in apartment buildings.

The Exelon Foundation and Exelon Corporation are now accepting startup applications for year two of 2c2i. In partnership with Freshwater Advisors, 2c2i leaders are actively scouting for promising new startups and projects relevant to: greenhouse gas mitigation; protect urban infrastructure against flood, storm water and rising temperatures; climate change adaptation; and city sustainability and climate goals.

For more information, visit www.exelonfoundation.org/environment.html. (Source: Exelon, PR, 13 July, 2020) Contact: Exelon, Bill Gibbons, Communications, 708-932-6123, William.Gibbons@exeloncorp.com, www.exeloncorp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Excelon news,  Climate Change news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Exelon
Date: 2020-07-15
In Chicago, Excelon Corp and the Exelon Foundation, an independent not-for-profit, have selected 10 startups to receive a combined $1 million in direct funding from the company's $20 million Climate Change Investment Initiative (2c2iSM).

Of the startups selected in the first round of funding, 50 pct are minority or women-owned businesses, 60 pct of the projects are focused on greenhouse gas mitigation, 40 pct are addressing climate change resiliency and adaptation. First-round startups will receive $100,000 each from the Exelon Foundation. Building energy management and efficiency and energy storage related winners include:

BlocPower, a software platform developer for analyzing, financing, monitoring and managing clean energy projects, allowing building owners to identify and complete energy efficiency and electrification upgrades in urban communities. www.blocpower.io

Dynamhex, developer of a software platform leveraging complex energy consumption data that enables close collaboration among a range of city, community and utility stakeholders . to achieve local carbon-reduction goals. www.dynmhx.io

NETenergy, a Chicago-based hybrid energy storage/air conditioner technology specialist with the potential to reduce peak energy demand by over 50 pct, reduce peak energy consumption by 20 pct, and reduce overall energy consumption by more than 10 pct over standard air conditioners. www.netenergytes.can

New Ecology, developer of a remote monitoring and optimization (ReMO) system to improve the performance of buildings with central boilers for increased efficiency and reduced utility costs. www.netecology.org

The Exelon Foundation and Exelon Corporation are now accepting startup applications for year two of 2c2i. In partnership with Freshwater Advisors, 2c2i leaders are actively scouting for promising new startups and projects relevant to: greenhouse gas mitigation; protect urban infrastructure against flood, storm water and rising temperatures; climate change adaptation; and city sustainability and climate goals. For more information, visit www.exelonfoundation.org/environment.html (Source: Exelon, PR, 13 July, 2020) Contact: Exelon, Bill Gibbons, Communications, 708-932-6123, William.Gibbons@exeloncorp.com, www.exeloncorp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Exelon news,  Energy Storage news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Wyoming Energy Authority
Date: 2020-07-13
In Casper, the Wyoming Energy Authority reports it will oversee the distribution of competitive federal grant funds to improve energy efficiency in buildings statewide.

The State Energy Program provides several grant opportunities including the K-12 Schools Lighting Grants, the Small Business Energy Audits/Retrofit Grants and the Local Government Energy Retrofit Grants for local municipalities, schools and businesses hoping to conduct energy audits or retrofit their facilities to lessen utility costs and energy consumption. (Source: Wyoming Energy Authority, Casper Star Tribune, Contact: Wyoming Energy Authority, Ashlee Erickson, Program Coordinator, ashlee.erickson1@wyo.gov, www.wyoenergy.org; Wyoming State Energy Program, www.wyoenergy.org/2020-grants

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  Energy Efficienct fundin news,  

IPCC,Kamloops,Climate Change
Date: 2020-07-13
In British Columbia, the city of Kamloops (pop. 90,200) city council reports it will this week begin considering a major community climate action plan to address greenhouse gas emissions from three major sources -- transportation, buildings and solid waste. Under the proposed plan, each sector 'must set a course to achieve zero-carbon emissions by 2050 to be congruent with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) direction.'

The Kamloops community climate action plan proposes the following:

Car-light community -- By 2050, 50 pct of trips in Kamloops to be active transportation and transit. Policy options could potentially include low-emissions "superblocks" prioritizing low-emissions vehicles , cycling and walking networks.

Zero emissions transportation -- By 2050, 85 per cent of kilometres driven by Kamloops-registered passenger vehicles owners to be zero-emissions vehicles. Immediate actions could include adopting an EV-ready bylaw, planning and budgeting for publicly accessible EV charging and policy review and financing for retrofitting buildings for EV charging.

Zero-carbon homes and buildings -- By 2030, all new and replacement heating and hot water systems to be zero emissions. Policy options could include setting targets for zero-carbon new buildings, encouraging low-carbon new buildings, calling for provincial zero-carbon building regulations, incentives for energy efficiency, incentives for energy efficient building materials and a retrofit program for existing buildings.

Zero-waste/circular economy -- Kamloops to be a zero-waste community by 2040. Policy options include: creation of a zero-waste research and innovation centre, collection and processing of organic waste, investigation into biofuel production from local organics for city uses such as for heating of civic facilities or fuel for vehicles, requirements for diverting waste and materials from construction and demolition sites. Immediate actions could include a feasibility study for biogas capture from organics collection and policy review to require or encourage building deconstruction and materials be reused.

Renewable energy (No target identified) -- Policy options could exploration of community and neighbourhood scale renewable energy systems and storage, support for related R&D. Immediate actions could include exploration of renewable energy opportunities with partners and renewable energy utility opportunities.

Zero-carbon civic operations -- Strive to reduce carbon emissions from municipal operations by 40 pct by 2030 and 100 pct by 2050. Policy options could include a corporate energy review, phasing out of fossil fuels in buildings and fleets, support for green commuting, internal carbon pricing and a creative community engagement and marketing plan. Immediate actions could include a corporate energy review, committing all new city buildings to zero carbon, transitioning buildings and fleets to electric/zero emissions and incentives for staff for e-bikes and transit passes.

Healthy urban ecosystem -- Increase the city's urban forest canopy cover to 20 pct by 2030 and 30 pt by 2050 to increase forests' carbon storage capacity and support biodiversity, The plan also calls for carbon off-setting linked with biodiversity and conservation and integrating green technologies with infrastructure upgrades.

The city notes that, in addition to emissions reductions actions already in place, the above efforts could potentially reduce GHG emissions by 538,000 to 556,000 tonnes of CO2 by 2050. In 2019 the city committed to maintain a 1.5 C temperature increase, as set out in the Paris Agreement as well as IPCC targets for emissions to be reduced by between 40 and 60 pct by 2030 or sooner. (Source: City of Kamloops, Civic Web, July, 2020) Contact: City of Kamloops , www.kamloops.civicweb.net; IPCC, www.ipcc.ch

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  IPCC,  

Arizona State University
Date: 2020-07-13
In Tempe, Arizona State University (ASU), home of the world's first school of sustainability and the first university-issued sustainability degree, reports its new $120 million Biodesign Institute C R&D center has been awarded Lab Manager magazine's Excellence in Sustainability prize, part of the first annual Lab Design Excellence Awards.

Biodesign Institute C, which is also LEED Platinum certified by the US Green Building Council, is the third building in a set of four ASU scientific complexes focused on bio-inspired research for global impact. The building's sustainability and energy conservation features include: active chilled beams, which permit decoupling of space cooling loads from the required ventilation air; an enhanced run-around loop (ERAL) system in the air handling units; and other energy efficiency features.(Source: ASU, Lab Manager, July, 2020) Contact: ASU Biodesign Institute C, www.cfo.asu.edu/biodesign-c, USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Arizona State University,  USGBC,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2020-07-13
In Washington, DC, City View, a three-story, 58-unit affordable community in the Anacostia neighborhood has received U.S Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Gold certification.

The $12 million project's LEED qualifying sustainable features include: a rooftop solar panel array. Energy Star rated windows; individual energy efficient HVAC and hot water heater units; low-consumption plumbing fixtures and appliances; and others. (Source: USGBC, Multi Housing News, 13 July, 2020) Contact: USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Gold,  Energy Efficiency,  

University of Toronto
Date: 2020-07-13
In Ontario, the University of Toronto (UT) has announced that Pomerleau Construction has been awarded a design-bridge-build contract for the construction of a new 265,000 sq-ft residence hall to be built to ultra energy efficient Passive House standards in Toronto's Scarborough community. Pomerleau will construct and own the building which is expected to break ground this summer.

Unlike a program like LEED, which features a checklist with parameters such as proximity to transit, Passive House focuses on energy efficiency. For the U of T project, attention will be paid to minimizing the potential for thermal bridging and selecting the best materials for high performance, stuffing the exterior cladding with extra insulation, installing triple-glazed windows and ensuring the clips used to fasten the cladding are as efficient as possible. (Source: University of Toronto, Daily Commercial News, 13 July, 2020) Contact: Pomerleau Construction, www.pomerleau.ca; University of Toronto, www.utoronto.ca; Passive House, International Passive House Association www.passivehouse-international.org, www.passivehousecanada.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Passive House,  Energy Efficiency,  

Telstra
Date: 2020-07-10
Telstra, Australia's largest telecommunications company , reports it has been "officially certified" as as carbon neutral by the Australian Climate Active Program

To reach its goal, the company undertook a range of measures to reduce its emissions footprint, including the purchase of zero emissions renewables generated electricity, improved energy efficiency at some of its operational sites, and the purchase of carbon offsets from overseas, particularly in India, because of a lack of opportunities to invest in local carbon abatement projects. Of the remaining 2.33 million tonnes of Telstra's emissions footprint leftover to be offset 11,000 tonnes was offset using emissions reductions purchased from Australian based projects. (Source: Telstra, PR, July, 2020) Contact: Telstra, www.telstra.com.au; Australian Climate Active Program, www.climateactive.org.au

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

Northumbria University
Date: 2020-07-10
In the UK, Northumbria University reports it has been selected to participate in a €4.8 million RINNO project to make renovating residential buildings in Europe more energy efficient.

Over the next four years, the RINNO project will develop new ways to increase a building's energy efficiency, environmental performance and occupant satisfaction. The project will investigate novel technologies, processing and business models, and develop solutions to enable the construction industry to make significant improvements to energy inefficient buildings around Europe.

Northumbria University researchers will join experts from Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Poland and Spain to investigate new building systems, the use of robots and 'cobots' for building assembly, artificial intelligence, augmented reality and Blockchain-enabled crowd equity funding to improve current processes relating to building renovation. Northumbria will also develop state-of-the-art energy monitoring software systems and use its Smart Connected Homes tool which shows how residents use electricity, light and move around their homes, as well as internal room temperatures and levels of humidity. The Northumbria team will also develop a project collaboration platform that will integrate the actors and workflows involved in the deep renovation of buildings.

The RINNO project is funded by the European Commission's Horizon 2020 programme. The solutions developed by RINNO will be demonstrated in four real-life renovation projects in France, Denmark, Greece and Poland. (Source: Northumbria University, PR, pbctoday, 10 July, 2020) Contact: RINNO Project , +39 010 3196643, arianna.amati@rina.org, www.rina.org, www. rinno-h2020.eu; Northumbria University, www.northumbria.ac.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  Building Energy Performance news,  

Date: 2020-07-10
On Tuesday in Richmond, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam (D) launched Clean Energy Virginia, a new initiative to drive investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency and help meet the Commonwealth's goals for clean energy production, which include powering 100 pct of the state's electricity from carbon-free sources.

The initiative follows the recent enactment of the Virginia Clean Economy Act and other signature solar, wind, and energy efficiency legislation. These clean energy policies require all carbon emitting sources of electricity to retire by 2045, while replacing them with new investments in solar, onshore wind, offshore wind, energy efficiency, and battery storage. (Source: Office of Gov. Ralph Northam, Shore Daily News, 9 July, 2020)Contact: Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, www.governor.virginia.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Virginia Governor Ralph Northam,  

RGGI, Carbon Tax
Date: 2020-07-10
In Harrisburg, the Keystone State Republican-controlled House of Representatives on Wednesday forwarded legislation aimed at blocking Gov. Tom Wolf (D) from imposing a price on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and from the Governor's previuosly announced plan to bring Pennsylvania into the 10-state Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

Both RGGI and a carbon tax are central to the governor's strategy to fight climate change. If Wolf's plan is successful, Pennsylvania would become the first major fossil fuel state to adopt a carbon pricing policy.

Proponents claim the RGGI cap-and-trade program would inject new life into Pennsylvania's economy by prioritizing energy efficiency and cleaner energies. (Source: Office of Penna. Gov. Tom Wolf, CBS Pittsburgh, AP, 9 July, 2020) Contact: Office of Penna. Gov. Tom Wolf, 717-787-2500, www.facebook.com › governorwolf, www.governor.pa.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News RGGI,  Carbon Tax,  Tom Wolf,  

ENERGY STAR
Date: 2020-07-10
Salisbury, North Carolina-based 400-store across 10 states grocery retailer Food Lion reports receipt of the U.S. DOE ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award for a 19th consecutive year.

In addition to energy conservation, Food Lion adheres to sustainable sourcing standards, increased recycling to divert more waste from landfills, the use of motion sensor equipped energy efficient LED lighting and other sustainability and energy efficiency efforts.

Since 2000, Food Lion's energy reductions in carbon emissions are equivalent to supplying the energy needed to charge more than 75.3 billion smart phones or providing 70,717 neighbors homes' energy for one year. (Source: Food Lion, PR, 10 July, 2020) Contact: Food Lion, Matt Yates, VP Brand Strategy, Kelly Powell, 704-310-3886, Kelly.powell@foodlion.com, www.foodlion.com; ENERGY STAR , energystar.gov/about and energystar.gov/numbers

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

Deloitte
Date: 2020-07-10
According to Deloitte Resources' Energy Management: Paused by Pandemic, but Poised to Prevail 2020 study, the COVID-19 pandemic might be partially responsible for driving more efforts to reduce carbon emissions and manage energy use.

The study notes roughly 60 pct of companies surveyed were under stakeholder pressure to disclose climate risks and to disclose plans to address those risks. The study also noted:

63 pct of businesses surveyed have increased emission reduction goals;

75 pct of business respondents said customers are asking them to procure renewable energy;

51 pct were working to procure more electricity from renewable;

60 pct of businesses citing have onsite generation -- 15 pct from cogeneration and 13 pct from renewables ;

44 pct of business respondents have considered a microgrid.

The study also noted more businesses are adopting technologies to manage and control electricity use and sources. Download the study HERE. (Source: Deloitte Resources , July, 2020) Contact: Deloitte, www2.deloitte.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Deloitte,  Energy Efficiency,  Energy Management,  Climate Change,  

European Investment Bank
Date: 2020-07-08
"Investments in energy efficiency improvements are vital to ensure Europe's future as a sustainable, yet prosperous economy. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, however, there is a great risk of losing sight of the benefits of energy efficiency investments by European firms. The EIB Investment Survey (EIBIS) provides a unique source of data that highlights how more investment in energy efficiency is needed.

"This report examines the quality of firms' building stock, their spending on energy efficiency measures and the factors that influence their decisions regarding that investment. It highlights that both high-quality information and advanced management practices make a crucial difference in the likelihood of investment in energy efficiency. The regulatory framework needs to be supportive, yet also push for higher energy building performance standards, while financing conditions should facilitate timely investment by firms to realize the enormous gains that can be achieved through energy efficiency improvements."

Download the Who is Investing in Energy Efficiency and Why It Matters report HERE. (Source: European Investment Bank, July, 2020) Contact: EIB, www.eib.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Investment Bank news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Connecticut Green Bank
Date: 2020-07-06
The Connecticut Green Bank, the quasi-public agency tasked with attracting private investment in energy efficiency and renewable power projects, is reporting the launch of a new type of bond designed to attract middle-class investors to support projects that deal with climate change.

Download Connecticut Green Bank details HERE. (Source: Connecticut Green Bank, July, 2020) Contact: Connecticut Green Bank, 860-563-0015, www.ctgreenbank.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Connecticut Green Bank,  CT Bank,  Energy Efficiency,  Renewable Energy,