USDA, Rural Energy for America Program
Date: 2021-09-17
In Washington, The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports the issuance last week of $473,320 in renewable energy grant funding to 40 projects at farms and other rural businesses in Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).

The funding was part of a total grant package of $464 million that include $129 million to 48 states and Puerto Rico, as well as distributed $335 million to build or improve 1,432 miles of power line through the Electric Loan Program.

The funding was distributed through the USDA Rural Development office. (Source: USDA, PR, Farm & Dairy, 15 Sept., 2021) Contact: USDA Rural Development, www.usda.gov, www.rd.usda.gov; Rural Energy for America Program, www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency

More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA,  Rural Energy for America Program,  Renewable Energy,  Energy Efficiency ,  

US DOE EERE
Date: 2021-09-17
Since 2013, the DOE Housing Innovation Awards have honored the very best in innovation on the path to zero energy ready homes by recognizing forward-thinking builders delivering American homebuyers with a better homeowner experience.

Award winners are selected in each of the following categories : Affordable Homes; Attached Homes; Custom Homes for Buyer; Custom Homes on Spec; Multi-Family Homes and Production Homes .

Download 2021 Housing Innovation Awards details HERE.

Tour of Zero details HERE. (Source: US DOE, EERE, PR, Sept., 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Energy news,  Energy Efficiency news,  US DOE EERE news,  

US Green Building Council
Date: 2021-09-17
The Salt Lake City Department of Airports reports the new New SLC Airport -- the first new U.S. hub airport built in the 21st Century -- has received US Green Building Council LEED Gold certification .

The New SLC Airport was designed and built to: be flexible, right-sized design for the future that is more efficient, sustainable and maintains competitive costs; withstand a major seismic event; provide more areas to plug in electronic devices and reflect the beauty of Utah . LEED qualifying features include: emission reduction; waste minimization; water conservation and renewable energy implementation. (Source: Salt Lake City Airport, PR, Sept., 2021) Contact: Salt Lake City Department of Airports , Bill Wyatt, Exec, Dir., www. slcairport.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

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

Ameresco
Date: 2021-09-15
Framingham, Mass-based energy efficiency and renewable energy specialist Ameresco, Inc. reports it has been selected by the City of Mesquite, Texas, to install a comprehensive smart metering infrastructure improvement project for the city of 159,000 residents' residential and commercial water utility customers.

The project will include installation of solid-state water meters and an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system to allow for wireless reading of water usage data. Ameresco will replace more than 42,000 water meters and 41,000 meter boxes citywide, all of which are expected deliver significant operational savings. (Source: Ameresco, PR, Website, 14 Sept., 2021) Contact: City of Mesquite City Manager Cliff Keheley, Water Dept., 972-216-6208, www.cityofmesquite.com/225/Utilities; Ameresco, Leila Dillon, 508-661-2264, www.ameresco.com/energy-efficiency

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Metering,  

Date: 2021-09-13
Near South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame University President Fr. John Jenkins, speaking at the annual Notre Dame Forum's Care for Our Common Home: Just Transition to a Sustainable Future , announced the University aims to achieve a 65 pct reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 compared to a baseline year of 2005, on its way to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

As a result of past renewable and energy efficiency initiatives -- the elimination of all coal usage, green roofs and other energy efficiency measures -- the university (12,600 enrollment) exceeded its 2010 goal of achieving a 50 pct reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and cut energy consumption by 11 pct since 2008, despite an increased demand for space. (Source: Notre Dame University, Observer, 12 Sept., 2021) Contact: Notre Dame University, Paul Kempf, Utilities and Maintenance, 574-631-5000, www.nd.edu

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

Notre Dame University
Date: 2021-09-13
Near South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame University President Fr. John Jenkins , speaking at the university's annual Notre Dame Forum, "Care for Our Common Home: Just Transition to a Sustainable Future" announced the University aims to achieve a 65 pct reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 compared to a baseline year of 2005, on its way to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Due to past energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives -- the elimination of all coal usage, large-scale solar installations, geothermal, green roofs and others -- the university (12,600 enrollment) has exceeded its previously reported 2010 goal of achieving a 50 pct reduction in carbon emissions per gross square foot by 2030 and cut energy consumption by 11 pct since 2008, despite an increased demand for space. (Source: Notre Dame University, Observer, 12 Sept., 2021) Contact: Notre Dame University, Paul Kempf, Utilities and Maintenance, 574-631-5000, www.nd.edu

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

US DOE
Date: 2021-09-08
The U.S. DOE reports it has recognized the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois, as part of its Building Envelope Campaign for the design of the Industrial Center Building Addition (ICB-A). The ICB-A was recognized as a new building that performs above code because it uses emerging high-performance technology for its building envelope -- windows, exterior walls and roofs. The Fermi building envelope surpassed the award's criteria of a 20 pct improvement over current building code, providing a 25 pct improvement. Building envelopes account for almost 33 pct of energy consumption in commercial buildings. For ICB-A, the building envelope specifications alone would have only achieved about a 15 pct improvement.

Because ICB-A connects two existing facilities, the addition was strategically located to provide direct access to surrounding assembly areas while eliminating over 7,000 square feet of building envelope exposed to the outdoor environment. Placement of the roughly 25,000-square-foot addition combined with energy-efficient windows, exterior walls and roofs gave the building its performance boost.

Fermilab is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. (Source: US DOE, Office of Science, PR, Sept., 2021) Contact: DOE Office of Science, www.energy.gov/science Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, www.fnal.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Building Energy Efficiency,  US DOE,  

Date: 2021-09-08
The U.S. DOE reports it has recognized the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois, as part of its Building Envelope Campaign for the design of the Industrial Center Building Addition (ICB-A). The ICB-A was recognized as a new building that performs above code because it uses emerging high-performance technology for its building envelope -- windows, exterior walls and roofs. The Fermi building envelope surpassed the award’s criteria of a 20 pct improvement over current building code, providing a 25 pct improvement. Building envelopes account for almost 33 pct of energy consumption in commercial buildings. For ICB-A, the building envelope specifications alone would have only achieved about a 15 pct improvement.

Because ICB-A connects two existing facilities, the addition was strategically located to provide direct access to surrounding assembly areas while eliminating over 7,000 square feet of building envelope exposed to the outdoor environment. Placement of the roughly 25,000-square-foot addition combined with energy-efficient windows, exterior walls and roofs gave the building its performance boost. Fermilab is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. (Source: US DOE, Office of Science, PR, Sept., 2021) Contact: DOE Office of Science, www.energy.gov/science Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, www.fnal.gov

Climate Change canada
Date: 2021-09-08
The sitting Liberal Government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, if returned to office, will keep the existing carbon tax in place for provinces without a plan of their own and allow it to continue to rise to $170 per tonne by 2030. It would also provide grants of up to $5,000 for home energy efficiency retrofits and interest-free loans of up to $40,000 for deep retrofits. The Liberals would also spend $700 million to add 50,000 new electric vehicle chargers and hydrogen stations. -- Liberal Party of Canada, www.liberal.ca

The Conservatives, led by Erin O'Toole are pledging to scrap the existing carbon tax and replace it with mandatory personal carbon savings accounts that Canadians pay into for their carbon use and then use those funds for environmentally friendly purchases. The charge for those personal carbon savings accounts would begin at $20 per tonne and rise to no higher than $50 per tonne. The Conservatives, if elected, would also require 30 pct of light-duty vehicles to be zero emission by 2030. -- Conservative Party of Canada, www.conservative.ca

NDP candidate Jagmeet Singh will, if elected, set a target of reducing Canada's emissions by at least 50 pct from 2005 levels by 2030 and kill any and all fossil fuel subsidies, including federal support for pipelines. -- NDP, www.ndp.ca

The federal election is on 20 September, 2021.

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

DOE Science
Date: 2021-09-03
The U.S. DOE reports it has recognized the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois, as part of its Building Envelope Campaign for the design of the Industrial Center Building Addition (ICB-A). The ICB-A was recognized as a new building that performs above code because it uses emerging high-performance technology for its building envelope -- windows, exterior walls and roofs. The Fermi building envelope surpassed the award’s criteria of a 20 pct improvement over current building code, providing a 25 pct improvement. Building envelopes account for almost 33 pct of energy consumption in commercial buildings. For ICB-A, the building envelope specifications alone would have only achieved about a 15 pct improvement.

Because ICB-A connects two existing facilities, the addition was strategically located to provide direct access to surrounding assembly areas while eliminating over 7,000 square feet of building envelope exposed to the outdoor environment. Placement of the roughly 25,000-square-foot addition combined with energy-efficient windows, exterior walls and roofs gave the building its performance boost. Fermilab is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. (Source: US DOE, Office of Science, PR, Sept., 2021) Contact: DOE Office of Science, www.energy.gov/science Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, www.fnal.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  

Lenovo, SBTi
Date: 2021-09-01
In its annual Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina-based Lenovo Group reports it is committing to new goals in the areas of climate change mitigation, circular economy, energy efficiency and sustainable materials.

Lenovo is committing to achieving 50 pct improvement in energy efficiency for desktops and servers and 30 pct for notebooks and Motorola products by FY 2029/30. The company also aims to purchase 90 pct of electricity from renewable energy sources and remove one million tons of GHG emissions from its supply chain by FY 2025/26.

These goals further support its 2030 science-based targets, which include reducing scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50 pct and decreasing emissions intensity throughout the products, suppliers and transportation value chain by 25 pct .

The company notes it is exploring a path to net-zero targets after being selected by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to road test science-based methodology for achieving net-zero emissions.

This is Lenovo's 15th annual ESG Report, covering the Fiscal Year 2020/21 (April 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021). Download Lenovo’s ESG Report HERE . (Source: Lenova, PR, 30 Aug., 2021) Contact: Lenova, www.lenovo.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change news,  Climate Change Mitigation news,  Carbon Emissions news,  Net-Zero Emissions news,  SBTi news,  

Australian Green Building Council
Date: 2021-09-01
In the Land Down Under, the Australian Green Building Council (GBCA) is touting a new Green Star Home Standard certification system that it says could cut residential energy bills by up to 75 pct.

The certification system, the world's first mass-market residential climate-positive certification, will see new homes throughout Australia constructed to withstand the effects of climate change with: solar power systems; water and energy efficiency features mitigating a number of potential emission or toxicity issues; smarter HVAC; energy efficient appliances: LED lighting; increased insulation and ventilation, all of which help drive down energy costs. The GBCA is presently collaborating with the Federal Government to usher the system into the current National Construction Code which presently only accounts for insulation levels.

Download Green Star Home Standard certification system details HERE . (Source: Green Building Council of Australia, PR, 31 Aug., 2021) Contact: Green Building Council of Australia, Davina Rooney, CEO, www.gbca.org.au

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

Mumbai International Airport
Date: 2021-09-01
In India, Mumbai International Airport reports receipt of the Confederation of India Energy Efficient Unit Award for Excellence in Energy Management 2021. The award lauds the airport for its sustainable and green initiatives, most importantly in assessing the reduction in specific energy consumption, innovation in identifying and implementing energy-saving projects, green supply chain, waste management, GHG Emission and climate change initiatives.

The Airport's initiatives include: a carbon management system, carbon neutrality, renewable energy installations, wastewater recycling and an effective waste management system enhancement in renewable energy capacity, and others that have delivered a 35 pct reduction in energy consumption and the reduction of 31,581 units (tCO2e) of GHG Emissions.

Mumbai International Airport is an ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System certified company committed to continuous reduction in energy consumption and carbon footprint through various initiatives. The airport is also the only in airport in India to publish the Sustainability Report as per the latest GRI Standards and the first platinum-rated Indian airport within the Existing Building (O&M) Rating System for its environmentally sustainable profile. In addition, the airport also owns an Organic Waste Converter (OWC) project with a solar capacity of 5kWp for providing green power for its operations. (Source: Mumbai International Airport, International Airport Review, 1 Sept., 2021) Contact: Mumbai International Airport, www.csmia.adaniairports.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Mumbai International Airport news,  

POSCO
Date: 2021-08-30
Seoul, South Korea-based POSCO Energy, a wholly owned energy unit of South Korean steelmaker POSCO, reports it is collaborating with with heat exchanger manufacturer Innowill Corp. and the Korea Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology to develop air turbine power generation technology that makes use of waste heat.

Under the terms of a collaboration agreement, POSCO Energy will be responsible for supporting the commercialization of energy efficiency improvement technology and Innowill will design and produce of the heat exchanger.

The new system will leverage air turbine technology, in which the turbine will be operated directly by heating the air efficiently and cost effectively. The company plans to complete the development and verification of the technology's economic feasibility by February 2022 and to make gradual forays into high energy consumption markets based on the feasibility study. (Source: POSCO, PR, 30 Aug., 2021) Contact: POSCO, www.posco.co.kr

More Low-Carbon Energy News Waste Heat,  POSCO,  

Ameresco
Date: 2021-08-27
Framingham, Mass.-based renewable energy and energy efficiency specialist Ameresco, Inc. reports inking an an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) with Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, to develop an energy and water conservation project.

Planned improvements at Tarleton State include light-emitting diode (LED) lighting retrofits and replacements, water fixture improvements, occupancy and similar controls and instrumentation improvements and HVAC upgrades and replacements, all of which are expected to cut the university's electric power and natural gas consumption by 21-23 pct and water consumption by 33 pct per year.

The project is slated to be completed by June, 2022, and will be self-funded using the utility savings. (Source: Ameresco, Inc., PR, 25 Aug., 2021) Contact: Ameresco, Leila Dillon, 508-661-2264, www.ameresco.com/energy-efficiency; Tarleton State University, 254-968-9000, www.tarleton.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  

IoEnergy Solutions
Date: 2021-08-27
Carmel, California-headquartered IoEnergy Solutions is touting its new On-Bill Finance division to help Bay Area PG&E businesses access utility-sponsored, zero out-of-pocket lighting efficiency upgrades.

IoEnergy provides start-to-finish, on-site project identification, utility application management and retrofit implementation for buildings of 50,000 square feet and larger.

On-bill financing gives commercial building owners the opportunity to retrofit the lighting in their buildings with ultra-efficient LED luminaries and tech-forward sensors and controls. The projects are financed through the energy cost savings associated with the upgrade. For upgrades on large commercial facilities, these savings, combined with lowered maintenance costs over time, can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars per year, according to the company release. (Source: IoEnergy Solutions, PR, 26 Aug., 2021) Contact: IoEnergy Solutions, Danny Krueger, CEO, (831) 298-0048, www.ioenergyinc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News IoEnergy Solutions news,  PG&E news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

DOE Advanced-Manufacturing Office
Date: 2021-08-25
In the Empire State, Syracuse University reports it is among 32 schools that will work to help local manufacturers improve their energy efficiency, as part of a U.S. DOE $60 million investment aimed at helping small- and medium-sized manufacturers reduce their carbon emissions and lower energy costs while training the next generation of energy-efficiency workers.

The investment will help remove barriers to decarbonization across the manufacturing sector and advance the goal of reaching a clean-energy economy by focusing on: improving productivity; enhancing cybersecurity; promoting resiliency planning; providing training to entities located in disadvantaged communities; and engage in a new pilot project to expand to the commercial-building market.

To date, the program has provided nearly 20,000 no-cost assessments for small- and medium-sized manufacturers and more than 147,000 recommendations for improvement measures. Assessments typically identify more than $130,000 in potential annual savings opportunities. The program is managed by the DOE Advanced-Manufacturing Office. (Source: Syracuse University, PR, CNYBJ, 23 Aug., 2021) Contact: DOE Advanced-Manufacturing Office, www.energy.gov/eere/amo/advanced-manufacturing-office; Syracuse University, www.syracuse.edu

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

Alliant Energy
Date: 2021-08-25
In the Badger State, the Riverwood Senior Living-Eagle's Nest is discovering first-hand how "Focus On Energy" worked with Wisconsin Dells Power and Light and Alliant Energy incentives for using energy-efficient equipment including: LED lighting; occupancy sensors with in-place switches; in-floor heat throughout the building and other energy efficiency upgrades that earned the facility $10,458.52 in incentives from Focus on Energy, according to an Aug. 20 release.

Riverwood is the first senior living project in the state to use Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing for energy efficiency upgrades. Riverwood's PACE consultant noted the Eagle's Nest facility 38 pct more energy efficient than what is typically required by code. (Source: Wisconsin Dells Power and Light, Wisconsin Dells Events, 23 Aug., 2021) Contact: Wisconsin Dells Power and Light, www.citywd.org/index.asp?SEC=725C79B5-E2A5-417A-A4AC-76357C6E05A3&Type=B_BASIC

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  PACE Financing,  Alliant Energy,  

US DOE
Date: 2021-08-25
Cities Leading through Energy Analysis and Planning demonstration project teams are led by local governments and have been selected to develop and pilot data-driven decision frameworks. To develop these frameworks, the local governments have partnered with academic institutions, technology companies, utilities, regional planning bodies, and non-governmental organizations for the following demonstration projects:

Drivers of Change for Local Greenhouse Gas Emissions Toolkit -- The Bellevue, WA and ICLEI-USA developed a toolkit to give cities details on what has been driving year-to-year changes in GHG emissions inventories. Report and details HERE

Powering Energy Efficiency and Impacts Project Framework (PEEIF) -- The Upper Coastal Plain COG team piloted a new framework to enhance low income energy service delivery to households in northeastern North Carolina. Report and details HERE

Policy, Permit, Perform: Using City Benchmarking Data and Building Construction Permit History to Identify Energy Performance Improvements -- Portland, OR evaluated the use of the DOE Building Energy Asset Score Tool and rating system to commercial buildings disclosing their energy use. Report and details HERE. (Source: US DOE EERE,Aug., 2021) Contact: US DOE EERE, www.energy.gov/eere; ICLEIUSA, www.icleiusa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US DOE/EERE,  Energy Efficiency,  Energy Benchmarking,  

Schneider Electric,Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group
Date: 2021-08-23
International renewable energy and energy efficiency firm Schneider Electric reports it has joined the 50-member public-private Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group (ADSG), the capital’s leading initiative to champion sustainability issues for both government and the private sector. Schneider Electric and the ADSG will share knowledge on the latest research and solutions for topics such as carbon emissions reduction, energy efficiency and renewable energy. Schneider Electric will also support the ADSG in key focus areas including youth engagement and sustainability reporting. Both entities will work side by side to promote a greener future for the UAE’s capital.

The ADSG’s goals include capability building, knowledge sharing and advocacy for issues such as energy efficiency, sustainability reporting and the circular economy.

As previously reported, Schneider Electric launched its sustainability consultancy in the Gulf with services tailored to the identification of energy efficiency savings, carbon offset programs, offsite renewable energy sourcing, electric mobility advising, and supply chain and logistics optimization. The company has committed itself to delivering 800 million tons of saved and avoided CO2 emissions to customers throughout the world, including Abu Dhabi and the UAE, by 2025. (Source: Schneider Electrdi, PR, 22 Aug., 2021) Contact: Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group, Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi, www.adsg.ae

More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Renewable Energy news,  

Evergreen Consulting, DTE Energy
Date: 2021-08-23
Portland, Oregon-headquartered Evergreen Consulting Group, which designs and manages innovative energy and resource efficiency solutions for utilities and energy organizations, reports it has been hired by Detroit, Michigan-based utility DTE Energy to launch and manage two pilot programs and a controlled environmental agriculture (CEA) program that will help increase energy cost savings for indoor and hybrid agriculture sites and small business utility customers by reducing energy consumption.

The Main Street Energy Savings Pilot Program provides outreach and solutions to thousands of Michigan's small businesses and property owners. The pilot promotes more than 200 hundred utility incentive measures and energy efficiency improvement solutions including: HVAC, LED lighting, energy management systems, water and refrigeration efficiency systems and others.

To implement the pilots, Evergreen is partnering with Berkley, Michigan-based Energy Sciences LLC, a small energy consulting services and solutions to commercial, industrial and municipal clients. Both programs will deliver technical and participation support, as well as help contractors and customers calculate energy use and costs, develop estimates and identify incentives for eligible measures. (Source: Evergreen Eficiency, PR, 18 Aug., 2021) Contact: Evergreen Consulting Group, Matt Gibbs, Pres., 503-347-8601, emily.pearce@evergreen-efficiency.com, www.evergreen-efficiency.com; Energy Sciences, 248-792-9287, www.energysciencesllc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Evergreen Consulting,  DTE Energy,  Energy Efficiency,  

Schneider Electric,Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group
Date: 2021-08-23
Global renewable energy and energy efficiency firm Schneider Electric's consultancy unit reports it has joined the 50-member public-private Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group (ADSG), the capital's leading promoter of renewable energy and sustainability.

Schneider and the ADSG will share knowledge on the latest research and solutions on carbon emissions reduction, energy efficiency and renewable energy and promote "a greener future for the UAE's capital."

The ADSG's goals include capability building, knowledge sharing and advocacy for issues such as energy efficiency, sustainability reporting and the circular economy.

As previously reported, Schneider Electric's sustainability consultancy in the Gulf offers services tailored to the identification of energy efficiency savings, carbon offset programs, offsite renewable energy sourcing, electric mobility advising and supply chain and logistics optimization. The company has committed itself to delivering 800 million tons of saved and avoided CO2 emissions to customers worldwide, including Abu Dhabi and the UAE, by 2025. (Source: Schneider Electric, PR, 22 Aug., 2021) Contact: Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group, Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi, www.adsg.ae; Schneider Electric, Vicki True, 774-613-1158, vicki.true@se.com, www.se.com, twitter.com/SchneiderElec

More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric,  Renewable Energy,  Energy Efficiency,  

Ameren Missouri
Date: 2021-08-23
In the Show Me State, Ameren Missouri is offering families across central Missouri free Nest Thermostats, provided they connect to a system aimed at helping reduce demands on the energy grid peak times. The Nest Thermostat works with Google Home and Amazon Alexa for voice control, and increases home energy efficient and saves customers an average of 15 pct on cooling costs, according to an independent study conducted by ENERGY STAR.

The Ameren offer is available until Oct. 11, 2021 or while supplies last, and customers only need pay the required sales tax for the device cost. Ameren explains the offer is possible due to instant discounts and required enrollment in the Peak Time Savings program. The Nest . (Source: Ameren Missouri, PR, Contact: Ameren Missouri, Shelly Harmon, Residential Energy Efficiency Programs Manager, www.AmerenMissouriSavings.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameren Missouri news,  Nest Thermostart news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Korea Institute of Energy Research
Date: 2021-08-20
In Seoul, the state-run Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) reports it has developed a non-destructive technique to recycle discarded solar panels to create high-performance solar cells. The new technique can recycle both undamaged and damaged panels to achieve up to 100 pct retrieval rate of glass component and roughly 80 pct of other materials can be retrieved and recycled into high-performance solar cells.

KIER Researchers were able to refine silicon collected from 72 discarded commercial panels into six-inch single crystal ingots and wafers. Recycled materials were used in the production of solar cells with a generation efficiency of about 20.52 pct. Normal solar cells have an energy efficiency of about 15 pct.

South Korea's total solar energy generation capacity stood at 3.65 GW in November 2020. (Source: Korea Institute of Energy Research, PR, Aug., 2021) Contact: Korea Institute of Energy Research, www.kier.re.kr/eng

More Low-Carbon Energy News Korea Institute of Energy Research ,  Solar,  

Toronto Atmospheric Fund,Toronto Community Housing
Date: 2021-08-20
In Ontario, the Toronto Atmospheric Fund (TAF) and Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) have signed a new partnership agreement to accelerate their program of tenant-centered social housing retrofits. The agreement enables both TAF and TCHC to move from single-project retrofits to multi-building, accelerated projects while supporting Toronto's climate target goals and contribute to TAF's mission to achieve net-zero communities by 2050.

TAF and TCHC have long cooperated on single-project retrofits to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy. Since 2015, TAF and TCHC : retrofitted more than 1,400 TCHC homes; completed more than $10 million in capital work; Reduced more than 20,000 tonnes of cumulative carbon (over the projects' life); and Saved more than $500,000 in annual utility bills with the installation of heat pumps, smart thermostats and other energy efficiency measures.

Under the new partnership agreement, retrofit work in TCHC buildings will scale up significantly . By the end of 2021, the partners aim to initiate deep retrofit design work for an additional 1,500+ TCHC homes, representing more than $33 million in future capital work, and design retrofits to achieve a minimum 40-pct carbon reduction and improve energy efficiency health and comfort conditions .

The Atmospheric Fund (TAF) is a regional climate agency that invests in low-carbon solutions for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area and helps scale them up for broad implementation. Toronto Community Housing is Canada's largest social housing provider, and home to nearly 60,000 households with low and moderate incomes. (Source: Toronto Community Housing, PR, 18 Aug., 2021) Contact: Toronto Atmospheric Fund , Julia Langer, CEO, Julie Leach, Communications, 416-393-6382, Jleach@taf.ca, www.taf.ca; TCHC, 416-737-1352, www.torontohousing.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Toronto Atmospheric Fund,  

Ameresco,Hannah Solar Government Services
Date: 2021-08-20
Framingham, Mass,-based renewable energy and energy efficiency specialist Ameresco, Inc. reports it is entering into a joint venture with Summerville, C.C.-based Hannah Solar Government Services (HSGS), a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) renewable energy company. The two firms will work collaboratively to bring cleantech solutions to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other Federal agencies.

The joint venture was facilitated as part of the SBA Mentor Protege Program which helps eligible small businesses gain exposure and win government contracts through partnerships with more experienced mentor companies.

HSGS is a solar PV project developer and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) firm specializing in the development, design, installation and maintenance of solar PV energy solutions to a range of organizations from medium-scale commercial to large-scale utility solar energy projects. (Source: Ameresco, PR, Website, 18 Aug., 2021) Contact: HSGS, 843)-718-1866, www.hsgs.solar; Contact: Ameresco, Leila Dillon, 508-661-2264, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Solar,  

Edmonton Alberta
Date: 2021-08-20
On the Canadian prairies, the City of Edmonton (pop. 1.49 million), Albert, City Council reports unanimous approval of a $12.4 million, two-year pilot program to finance energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades to 100 existing Edmonton buildings as part of the city's strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The program, which will launch in September, will be available to homeowners and organizations for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements to their properties. The project financing will be repaid over time through a clean energy improvement tax.

The program is primarily funded by a Federation of Canadian Municipalities loan of $8.4 million and a grant of $1.2 million and a $2.1 million contribution by the city. (Source: City of Edmonton City Council, PR, 18 Aug., 2021) Contact: City of Edmonton City Council, www.edmonton.ca/city_government/mayor-city-councillors

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  Renewable Energy Clean Energy news,  Edmonton news,  

Date: 2021-08-18
In Columbus, the Ohio Statehouse News Bureau is reporting the tabling of HB 389, bipartisan legislation that adds an incentive for electric power companies to push energy efficiency.

The bill (HB 389) would allow electric companies to submit a portfolio to Ohio's utility regulators that offer customers smart thermostats, energy efficient appliances and others. The legislation is reportedly broadly supported by the state's utility companie. (Source: Ohio Statehouse News Bureau, PR, Aug., 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

ENERGY STAR
Date: 2021-08-18
The U.S. EPA ENERGY STAR program reports it is expanding its efforts to drive energy efficiency improvements among U.S. data centers -- one of the most energy-intensive building types, consuming 10 to 50 times more energy per square foot than a typical office building. In 2014, data centers in the U.S. consumed an estimated 70 billion kWh, roughly 1.8 pct of total U.S. electricity consumption.

Through its ENERGY STAR program, EPA has launched an updated specification for ENERGY STAR certification of data storage products, unveiled a brand-new website to serve as the "go-to place" for data center energy efficiency resources, and will be updating its 1-100 ENERGY STAR score for data centers.

Data center equipment that earns the ENERGY STAR label is independently certified to meet strict efficiency specifications set by the EPA. For example, labeled computer servers are on average 30 pct more efficient than non-certified products. In addition to servers, eligible products include uninterruptible power supplies, data center storage, and large network equipment like switches and routers. More than 190 data centers representing nearly 30 million square feet of floor space have earned ENERGY STAR certification.

Download the updated ENERGY STAR specification for data center storage products HERE. (Source: US EPA, ENERGY STAR, Aug., 2021) Contact: DOE ENERGY STAR, www.energystar.gov

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

Solarize Philly, Philadelphia Energy Authority
Date: 2021-08-18
In the Keystone State, the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is reporting the kick-off of the 3rd annual Philadelphia Solar Week and the opening of enrollment in Solarize Philly, a citywide program to encourage and support Philadelphia homes and businesses to go solar.

The Solarize Philly program offers new financing options to make solar more accessible to homeowners of all incomes and owners of commercial properties of all sizes. Solarize Philly will be open now through the end of November 2021.

Since Solarize Philly's 2017 launch, 750+ homes have gone solar and $12 million+ has been invested in communities across the city. Solarize Philly is the largest initiative of its kind in the country. Solarize Philly recently completed a pilot for low- and moderate-income households, which provided grants and low-cost loans to 50 households to go solar.

The Philadelphia Energy Authority's $1 billion, 10-year Philadelphia Energy Campaign has supported $167 million in energy efficiency and clean energy projects since 2017. (Source: Philadelphia Energy Authority, 16 Aug., 2021) Contact: Philadelphia Energy Authority, Emily Schapira, (215) 203-2906, eschapira@philaenergy.org, www,philaenergy.org; Solarize Philly, www.solarizephilly.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solarize Philly,  Philadelphia Energy Authority,  Solar,  

Victoria British Columbia, Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Date: 2021-08-18
In Victoria, British Columbia, the Capital Region District (CRD) reports it will receive $175,000 in grant funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to study the feasibility of a planned multi-year residential energy efficiency retrofits plan.

The money is part of a $1 million program for B.C. communities and will pay for industry experts to draft low-carbon retrofit packages for regional buildings, come up with methods for retrofit program delivery and determine potential funding schemes and target markets. A plan for the region-wide residential energy retrofit program will be presented to the CRD board this fall. (Source: Victoria Capital Region District , PR, 17 Aug., 2021) (Contact: Capital Region District, Nikki Elliot, Program Coordinator, 250.360.3000, www.crd.bc.ca; Federation of Canadian Municipalities, www.fcm.ca › programs › green-municipal-fund

More Low-Carbon Energy News Federation of Canadian Municipalities ,  

Birla Carbon
Date: 2021-08-16
Mumbai- India-headquartered global carbon black manufacturer Birla Carbon reports it plans to bring down its net carbon emissions to zero by 2050. The company's initiative, which is in line with The Paris Agreement and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development's Tire Industry Project SDG Roadmap, is in collaboration with sister companies to develop decarbonization initiatives through the Aditya Birla Science and Technology Center.

To reach net-zero carbon emission by 2050, Birla Carbon will focus on all three scopes in the measurement, reduction, and offsetting of carbon emissions. A majority of its carbon footprint reduction is expected to come from Scope 1 and 2 based on its direct and indirect emission reduction initiatives. A smaller portion of its reduction will come from scope 3 based on the operations of upstream and downstream industries in the value chain. The company will focus on research to discover new ways for the capture and conversion of carbons; reducing dependence on traditional manufacturing processes; increasing energy efficiency; increased use of alternative energy and feedstocks; and the addition of renewable energy solutions.

Part of the Aditya Birla Group, Birla Carbon provides innovative sustainable carbon black solutions that enhance the performance of paints and coatings, inks and toners, plastics, adhesives, sealants, textile fibers, mechanical rubber goods, and tires. The company's footprint extends across 12 countries with 16 manufacturing facilities and two technology centers in Marietta, Georgia (USA) and Taloja, India). (Source: Brila Carbon, 13 Aug., 2021) Contact: Birla Carbon, John Loudermilk, CEO, www.birlacarbon.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Black,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Neutral,  

Ohio State University
Date: 2021-08-16
In Columbus, The Ohio State University reports it plans to start work on more than $44 million in energy system improvements. The project, which will upgrade 40 of the Ohio State Campuses 100 or more academic, administration, medical, athletic and student residence buildings, is pending approval by the Board of Trustees this week. This will be the fourth of five phases of energy efficiency measures that are part of the Ohio State Energy Partners (OSEP) program.

The projects, which are guided by building-specific energy audits performed in 2020 include: changing heating and cooling elements in campus buildings; optimizing air-handling and airflow; and upgrading fans and pumps for optimally efficient circulation, and others, all of which are expected to reduce annual energy consumption for the optimized buildings by an average of more than 25 pct when completed.

To date, Ohio State Energy Partners has:

Converted a total of 107,000 indoor light fixtures and 1,700 outdoor light fixtures to energy-efficient LED technology over the past two years.

Completed the deployment of smart energy meters on campus -- now totaling more than 750 electricity, natural gas, steam and chilled water meters -- which are linked to a custom-built Digital Platform that allows ENGIE and Ohio State to monitor the utility system infrastructure and campus-wide energy consumption.

Completed infrastructure improvements to support utility systems for facilities around the "Oval" within the Arts District and for health sciences facilities. (Source: The Ohio State University, Ohio State News, 16 Aug., 2021) Contact: The Ohio State University, www.osu.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ohio State University,  Energy Efficiency,  

US DOE EERE
Date: 2021-08-16
In Washington, the US DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) has awarded $82.6 million in funding to 44 projects that will lower Americans' energy bills and help meet the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 by investing in new energy efficient building technologies, construction practices, and the U.S. buildings-sector workforce.

The 44 projects across 20 states will improve building energy efficiency through innovations in thermal energy storage, building envelopes, lighting, HVAC, water heating -- as well as by bolstering the energy efficiency workforce with trainings, educational programs, and other technical support. The following are among the 44 funded projects:

North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota will develop a novel absorption material that will efficiently store thermal energy.

Baryon Inc. based in Wilmington, Delaware will develop an innovative air-conditioning system based on a new method of evaporative cooling combined with dehumidification that can consume 50 to 85 pct less energy than traditional air conditioning systems.

In Sidney, Ohio, Emerson Commercial and Residential Solutions will design, fabricate, and validate a highly efficient refrigerated display case for use in supermarkets.

The New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark will design, prototype, install, test, and evaluate a high-performance residential wall retrofit that can achieve estimated heating and cooling energy savings of 30 pct or more.

The Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance in Atlanta, Georgia, will develop training resources on electrified building systems such as electric heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric vehicle charging systems, and battery storage systems. These resources will help members of the workforce learn how to educate consumers on the benefits of these technologies.

Download the full list of funded recipients HERE.

The mission of the DOE EERE is to accelerate the research, development, demonstration, and deployment of technologies and solutions to equitably transition America to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by no later than 2050, and ensure the clean energy economy benefits all Americans. (Source: US DOE EERE, PR, 13 Aug., 2021) Contact: US DOE EERE, Building Technologies Office, www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/building-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  DOE Building Technology Office news,  DOE EERE news,  

Date: 2021-08-13
In the Bay State, the Town of Arlington (pop. 42,600 +-) Select Board reports it has unanimously endorsed Arlington's net-zero action plan to "get Arlington on the path to reach net-zero greenhouse-gas pollution by 2050."

The plan has three pillars to help the town reach net zero: maximize and promote building energy efficiency; electrify everything -- heating, water heating, cooking and transportation (including school buses); and; "green the grid" including the town's electricity supply by generating more renewable power. (Source: Town of Arlington, 10 Aug., 2021) Contact: Town of Arlington, Ken Pruitt, Energy Manager, (781) 316-3428 , kpruitt@town.arlington.ma.us, www.town.arlington.ma.us

DOE Building Technology Office
Date: 2021-08-13
New DOE Health and Home Performance Infographic -- The Better Buildings Residential Network launched a new Health + Home Performance Infographic that illustrates the link between efficiency and health to better engage homeowners. Efficiency and also home health programs and contractors can use the infographic's easy-to-follow question-and-answer format to discover a homeowner's needs.

The infographic is ideal for the "kitchen table" conversations where people decide what to do -- and who they want to do it. It also has links for homeowners to find a qualified contractor if they do not already have one. Details: Health + Home Performance Infographic, www.energy.gov/eere/better-buildings-residential-network/articles/new-doe-health-home-performance-infographic

Map Offers Details of Energy Efficiency Careers -- An interactive career map funded by the DOE Building Technologies Office allows job seekers to explore 55 energy efficiency careers and provides information such as salary range, education requirements and future opportunities. Developed by the Interstate Renewable Industry Council and other industry groups, the Green Buildings Career map targets a broad group of workers with a variety of skills and education levels, providing hundreds of potential pathways to jobs in the green building industry. Details: Green Buildings Carrer Map, www.greenbuildingscareermap.org

CLEAResult Completes Over 263,000 Home Energy Upgrades -- Austin, Texas-based CLEAResult reports in fiscal year 2020, it completed 263,284 home energy upgrades, direct installations, and benefits to homes in 22 states, with 20 pct of upgrades completed in low-income homes. Contact: CLEAResult, 888-812-6146, www.clearesult.com

Efficiency Maine Completes 18,953 Upgrades -- Efficiency Maine reported 18,953 home energy upgrades in fiscal year 2020. Their residential customers are able to leverage a variety of programs, including Home Energy Savings, Low Income Initiatives, Retail Initiatives, and Distributor Initiatives. Contact: Efficiency Maine, 866-376-2463, www.efficiencymaine.com

DOE Home Energy Score Recognizes Partner Achievements, Upgrades Modeling Capabilities -- The DOE Home Energy Score™ team recognized three of its partners this month for their outstanding efforts to provide homeowners and renters with a Home Energy Score -- a miles per gallon-type rating that measures a home's energy efficiency. Award winners include the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, which produced nearly 6,000 scores over the past year; Detroit-based Walker-Miller Energy Services, which used the score to reach under-served households in Michigan; and Energize Connecticut, which helped lead Connecticut's innovative efforts to expand Home Energy Score, including to renters. Currently 25 Home Energy Score Partners exist with a network of nearly 300 assessors actively producing scores nationwide.

The latest improvement to Home Energy Score™ enhances the tool's modeling capabilities by incorporating EnergyPlus™, a whole-building energy simulation already considered the standard by engineers, architects, and researchers for measuring energy consumption in buildings. The switch to EnergyPlus enables Home Energy Score to produce more accurate energy estimates through comprehensive modeling calculations. Details: Home Energy Score, www.betterbuildingssolutioncenter.energy.gov/home-energy-score. (Source: US DOE Building Technology Office, 11 Aug., 2021) Contact: DOE Building Technology OfficeBetter Buildings Residential Network, www.bbresidentialnetwork@ee.doe.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News DOE Building Technology Office,  Energy Efficiency,  

Johnson Controls
Date: 2021-08-13
Cork, Ireland-headquartered "smart" and sustainable building specialist Johnson Controls and funds managed by affiliates of New York-based Apollo Global Management, Inc., a global alternative asset manager, are reporting a partnership to provide turn-key sustainability and energy efficiency services at no up-front cost to help U.S and Canadian customers address building decarbonization and cut operating costs.

The sustainability services will leverage Johnson Controls' energy efficiency performance contracting, along with its OpenBlue smart buildings technology and services, including the recently launched OpenBlue Net Zero Buildings as a Service. Apollo brings its infrastructure expertise and fund capital to offer customers flexible solutions to meet their energy savings and decarbonization objectives.

The venture targets a range of efficiency offerings tailored to schools, campuses, data centers, healthcare facilities as well as commercial and industry facilities, as more customers look to meet environmental standards to combat climate change and reach their carbon neutrality goals. The partnership provides a new strategic option for addressing the North American segment of the estimated $240 billion global market1 for decarbonization retrofit and services over the next decade, according to the release.

Download Johnson Controls recent survey on Net Zero buildings as a service offerings HERE (Source: Johnson Controls International plc, PR, 12 Aug., 2021) Contact: Johnson Controls, +41 52 6330374 Antonella Franzen, IR, 609.720.4665, antonella.franzen@jci.com, www.johnsoncontrols.com; APOLLO, Peter Mintzberg, Inv. Relations, (212) 822-0528 APOInvestorRelations@apollo.com , www.apollo.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Johnson Controls news,  Energy Efficiency news,   news,  

NRCAN
Date: 2021-08-13
In Ottawa, Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) is reporting a $40,000 investment in paper products manufacturer Kruger Products's effort to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and obtain ISO 50001 Energy Management Standard certification at its Crabtree plant in Quebec.

Through ISO 50001 certification, the plant commits to reducing its impact on the environment, conserving energy resources and improving its performance through the efficient management of all forms of energy. The average IS0 50001-certified facility will experience a cumulative energy performance improvement of almost 3 pct in the first two years alone.

Federal funding for this project is provided by the Industrial Energy Management Program, which offers financial assistance to help fund Canadian industrial facilities' energy management projects. This funding supplements the investments made by Kruger Products itself to carry out this energy efficiency project and obtain ISO 50001 certification, for a total combined investment of $660,000. (Source: Natural Resources Canada, PR, Website, Aug., 2021) Contact: NRCAN, www.nrcan.gc.ca; ISO 50001, www.iso.org target=_blank>Energy Efficiency,  

More Low-Carbon Energy News ISO 50001 ,  NRCAN,  Energy Efficiency,  

City of Green
Date: 2021-08-11
In Summit County, Ohio, the City of Green (pop. 25,700 ) City Council reports approval of a 10-year, $1.14 million energy efficiency improvement contract designed to make up for its own costs through efficiency savings.

The contract is with Gardiner Service Co., which operates out of Green and Solon, Ohio. The package includes LED lighting, automated control systems and purchase of energy efficient equipment, and ionization purification systems for city-owned facilities. Upon completion, the upgrade are expected to deliver more than $945,000 in energy cost savings over 10 years. (Source: City of Green, PR, Akron Beacon Journal, 11 Aug., 2021) Contact: City of Green, Planning & Dev., 330-896-6614 , www.greencity.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  

US DOE EERE
Date: 2021-08-11
In Washington, the U.S. DOE has announced nearly $34 million in funding for 11 projects that will support high-impact research and development to improve and produce biofuels, biopower and bioproducts from municipal solid waste (MSW) streams and algae for conversion into low-carbon transportation fuels.

Selected projects will both research and develop waste for energy conversion, improve algae farming practices to increase production, and further understanding of MSW potential as a fuel and energy source.

Awardees across six projects will investigate various strains and farming practices of algae and explore new ways to improve their growth.

Recipent list and details HERE. (Source: US DOE Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy , PR, Aug., 2021) Contact: DOE Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, www.energy.gov/eere/bioenergy

More Low-Carbon Energy News US DOE EERE,  Algae Biofuel,  Municipal Solid Waste,  Alternative Fuel,  

City of Green
Date: 2021-08-11
In Summit County, Ohio, the City of Green (pop. 25,700 ) City Council reports approval of 10-year, $1.14 million energy improvement contract designed to make up for its own costs through efficiency savings. The contract is with Gardiner Service Co., which operates out of Green and Solon, Ohio.

The package includes LED lighting, automated control systems and purchase of energy efficient equipment and ionization purification systems for city-owned facilities and is expected to deliver more than $945,000 in energy cost savings over 10 years. (Source: City of Green, PR, Akron Beacon Journal, 11 Aug., 2021) Contact: City of Green, Planning & Dev., 330-896-6614 , www.greencity.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  

JinkoSolar
Date: 2021-08-09
Shangrao, China-headquartered global solar energy specialist JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. reports it has received the first PV module LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) certificate in the Greater China region issued by TUV Rheinland (China) Ltd. The LCA certified modules are monocrystalline mainstream modules, with a total of 6 series and 43 sub-models.

The LCA certificate issued by TUV Rheinland is an important foundation for the Italian EPD certification. Based on the requirements of ISO 14040/ISO 14044, it adopts a life cycle assessment method focusing on environmental impact such as global warming potential, from raw material mining to the production of silicon wafers, cells, modules, upstream and downstream transportation, power station construction, operation and maintenance to final dismantling and disposal, and comprehensively evaluates and demonstrates multiple environmental impacts of JinkoSolar's photovoltaic products throughout their life cycle index.

Combining the world's carbon neutrality commitments and China's domestic 30/60 decarbonization goal, this certification can help companies fulfill their pledges on carbon emissions reduction through recognizing product low-carbon design, optimized energy management systems, and energy efficiency improvements, social responsibility for emissions and ecological impact, and achieve the ultimate goals of energy-saving and emissions reduction.

JinkoSolar has 9 production facilities and 22 subsidiaries globally and a vertically integrated solar product value chain, with an integrated annual capacity of 22 GW for mono wafers, 11.5 GW for solar cells, and 31 GW for solar modules, as of March 31, 2021. (Source: JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd., PR, 9 Aug., 2021) Contact: JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd., Kangping Chen, CEO, Stella Wang, +86 21-5180-8777 ext.7806 pr@jinkosolar.com, www.jinkosdolar.com; TUV Rheinland, www.tuv.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News JinkoSolar,  PV Modules,  TUV Rheinland,  

NRCAN
Date: 2021-08-09
In Ottawa, Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) is reporting a $547,500 investment to the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (OCHC) to retrofit affordable housing. The corporation is matching federal funding, for a project total over $1 million.

The pilot project -- the first of its kind in Canada -- aims to retrofit a four-unit townhouse in Ottawa , Ontario, into net-zero energy home while extending the building's life-cycle. The energy related upgrades and retrofits include; new roof, windows, prefabricated exterior panels, rooftop solar panels and others to increase energy efficiency and reduce the building's carbon footprint and the building's energy consumption by roughly 55 percent.

Canadian Federal funding is provided through the NRCAN Green Infrastructure Energy Efficiency for Buildings Program. This program supports the development and implementation of building codes for existing buildings and new net-zero energy-ready buildings through research, development and demonstration projects. CanmetENERGY-Ottawa is also collaborating with OCHC to monitor the performance of the retrofit, as well as providing ongoing research on Prefabricated Exterior Energy Retrofits (PEER). (Source: NRCAN, PR, 9 Aug., 2021) Contact: Ottawa Community Housing Corp, www.och-lco.ca; NRCAN Green Infrastructure Energy Efficiency for Buildings Program, www.nrcan.gc.ca/netzerobuildings

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  NRCAN,  

Michigan State University
Date: 2021-08-09
In East Lansing, Michigan State University (MSU) reports it has been awarded $2.25 million over the next five years from the U.S. DOE for the creation of an Industrial Assessment Center (IAC) to work with Michigan manufacturers to shrink carbon footprints, improve energy efficiency and cut energy costs. The funding is part of a 1976 DOE initiative that presently supports 32 IACs nationwide.

The MSU College of Engineering with provide the nucleus for the IAC which will capitalize on the experience found in MSU Extension, the Office of Sustainability, Infrastructure, Planning, and Facilities and the Construction Management programs. The IAC will also utilize the Construction Management Education and Research Lab space for student training and will capitalize on existing teaching, outreach and research efforts related to safety, green building, sustainability, and energy efficiency at all the partner institutions.

Download US DOE IAC details HERE (Source: Michigan State University, PR, dbusiness, 9 Aug., 2021) Contact: MSU College of Engineering, www.egr.msu.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Michigan State University news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Green Building news,  

USGBC
Date: 2021-08-09
Lincoln, Nebraska-based beef processor Certified Piedmontese reports its office buildings have received U.S, Green Building Council LEED Gold certification for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Green features contributing towards Certified Piedmontese's LEED certification include: installation of LED interior and exterior lights with zero-mercury to reduce energy costs more than 45 pct; air quality and HVAC controls; recycling of 76.7 pct of all on-site construction waste and others. (Source: Certified Piedmontese, PR, 9 Aug., 2021) Contact: Certified Piedmontese, www.piedmontese.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

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

Federation of Canadian Municipalities, NRCAN
Date: 2021-08-06
In Ottawa, Natural Resource Canada (NRCAN) and Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) have announced a $1.8 million investment to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, driving cost savings for Ontario communities through FCM's Green Municipal Fund (GMF). The following Ontario municipalities are being funded to design or conduct feasibility studies on implementing home energy efficiency retrofit financing programs:

Oakville Enterprises Corporation -- $70,000 to complete a feasibility study on a home energy retrofit financing program, in partnership with the Town of Oakville.

Peterborough -- $175,000 for a feasibility study on Peterborough's more equitable energy efficiency program.

Windsor -- $175,000 for a feasibility study on designing a residential deep energy efficiency retrofit (R-DEER) financing program.

Brampton -- $175,000 for a feasibility study on the Peel residential energy program (PREP).

Clean Air Partnership -- $175,000 for a feasibility study to develop a locally-tailored finance program for home energy retrofits with the County of Dufferin, London, Barrie and Huntsville.

Clean Air Partnership -- $175,000 for a feasibility study conducted in partnership with the Municipality of Clarington, the City of Kawartha Lakes and Tay Valley Township to develop locally-tailored home energy retrofit financing programs.

REEP Green Solutions -- $175,000 to complete a residential energy retrofit loan program design study in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo.

City of Greater Sudbury -- $170,000 for a study comparing home-retrofit financing models for Greater Sudbury.

Newmarket -- $133,700 for a feasibility study on the Newmarket energy efficiency retrofit (NEER) business implementation plan.

City of Thunder Bay -- $116,800 for a community efficiency financing feasibility study.

City of Burlington -- $100,000 for a feasibility study on a home energy efficiency retrofit program.

Municipality of Leamington and Essex Energy Corporation -- $91,200 for a study examining utility on-bill financing for home renewable energy projects in Essex County.

Town of Cobourg -- $71,500 for a community efficiency financing feasibility study. GMF's Community Efficiency Financing initiative helps communities of all sizes implement innovative local financing programs that directly help homeowners cut their GHG emissions, make their homes more energy-efficient.

To date, the Government of Canada has invested $1.65 billion in GMF since its inception. (Source: Natural Resource Canada, Federation of Canadian Municipalities, PR, Oakville News, 4 Aug., 2021) Contact: Federation of Canadian Municipalities, www.fcm.ca; NARCAN, www.nrcan.gc.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News NRCAN,  Energy Efficiency,  Federation of Canadian Municipalities ,  

Vantage Data Centers
Date: 2021-08-04
Denver-based Vantage Data Centers, a global provider of hyper-scale data center campuses, reports the company will achieve net zero carbon emissions globally by 2030, by reducing emissions that the company directly controls -- Scope 1 and 2 emissions, as well as reductions that it can guide or influence throughout its supply chain. The company's reduction targets are in alignment with the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi) methodology.

To reach its net zero goal the compay will focus:

Emissions Reduction -- Vantage is investing in technologies that target reductions in emissions, starting with a focus on energy efficiency and emissions reductions from on-site generators. The company will also develop processes and partnerships to reduce Scope 3 emissions outside of its control, such as emissions associated with customer IT and cooling loads.

Renewable Energy -- Vantage has already taken a proactive approach in designing highly efficient data center campuses with industry-leading Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE). The company offers renewable energy options to customers across all campuses globally and works with energy providers to advocate for and invest in additional renewable energy sources globally.

Supply Chain -- Vantage is working closely with its vendors and suppliers to decarbonize its supply chain.

Carbon Offsets -- Only in areas where emissions are unavoidable, Vantage will purchase offsets. The offsets purchased will provide funding for carbon removal projects and investments in communities where the company operates its data centers. (Source: Vantage Data Centers, PR, Aug., 2021) Contact: Vantage Data Centers, Amanda Sutton, Director of Sustainability, 408) 748-9830, www.vantage-dc.com/features/sustainability

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vantage Data Centers,  Net Zero Carbon,  Carbon Emissions,  

Newfoundland Ministry of Environment and Climate Change
Date: 2021-08-04
In Atlantic Canada, the Newfoundland Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is reporting a cost-shared funding more than $1 million for Efficiency and Fuel Switching projects for the Bruce II Sports Complex and Ralph Bennett Memorial Fire Hall in Channel- Port aux Basques.

The funding will be used for heat pump system HVAC improvements, installation of energy star rated glazing, air sealing and lighting retrofits at the Bruce II Sports Complex. The Ralph Bennett Memorial Fire Hall will be switched from oil to electricity, with installation of insulation and more efficient windows and doors.

The Town of Channel-Port aux Basques is receiving $490,000 from the Federal Government and $408,292 from the Provincial Climate Change Challenge Fund with the town contributing $326,707 in support of the project for the Bruce II Sports Complex. Funding of $58,631 is being provided by the Federal Government, along with $48,854 from the Provincial Climate Change Challenge Fund toward the Ralph Bennet Memorial Fire Hall project, with the Town contributing $39,092 in support of the project.

The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador's Climate Change Challenge Fund is a competitive grant-based program to fund greenhouse gas reduction projects and supports capital projects that lower greenhouse gas emissions. Funding is available to organizations across commercial, municipal, not-for-profit sectors and, Indigenous governments and organizations. (Source: Gov. of Newfoundland and Labrador, PR, 2 Aug., 2021) Contact: Newfoundland Environment and Climate Change Ministry, Lynn Robinson, 709-729-5449, 691-9446, lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca, www.gov.nl.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

SK Innovation
Date: 2021-08-02
South Korean battery manufacturer SK Innovation reports publication of its Net-Zero Roadmap 1.0 detailing outlining the company's plan to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

SK Innovation set a step-by-step goal to achieve 100 pct Net Zero before 2050 after reducing 12.43 million tons of CO2 generated in Scope 1 and 2 as of 2019 to 25 pct in 2025 and 50 pct in 2030. The company plans to invest roughly $1.3 billion to cut down 2.5 million tons of carbon emissions by 2030 by improving energy efficiency, transitioning to 25 pct renewable energy by 2025 and 100 pct by 2030. The company also plans to adopt Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology, develop environmentally-friendly products, elevate factory operation efficiencies participate in carbon offset programs to further cut battery and materials business emissions 13.6 million tons by 2035. (Source: SK Innovation, PR 2 Aug., 2021)Contact: SK innovation, www.eng.skinnovation.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News SK Innovation,  Battery,  Net-Zero Emissions,  

Ameresco
Date: 2021-08-02
Framingham, Mass,-headquartered renewable energy and energy efficiency specialist Ameresco the completion of its roof mount solar PV project with the United Kingdom's Ministry of Justice.

The centrally funded £1.1 million ($1.389 million) project saw the delivery of roof-mounted solar to seven courts and three prisons in the U.K.'s Midlands. (Source: Ameresco, Website PR, 27 July, 2021) Contact: Ameresco, Leila Dillon, 508-661-2264, news@ameresco.com, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Rooftop Solar,