American Public Power Association
Date: 2020-11-18
In Washington State, the Clallam County PUD is reporting receipt of Smart Energy Provider (SEP) designation from the American Public Power Association (APPA) for demonstrating commitment to, and proficiency in, energy efficiency, distributed generation and environmental initiatives that support a goal of providing low-cost, quality, safe and reliable electric service.

The SEP designation, which lasts for two years recognizes public power utilities for demonstrating leading practices in : smart energy program structure; energy efficiency and distributed energy programs; environmental and sustainability initiatives, and customer experience.

The APPA advocates and advises on electricity policy, technology, trends, training and operations for not-for-profit, community-owned utilities in 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. More than 85 public power utilities nationwide presently hold the SEP designation. (Source: Clallam County PUD Contact: Clallam County PUD , Doug Nass, GM, 509-663-8121, www.chellampud.net; American Public Power Association

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Public Power Association news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Energy Management news,  

Pearl Certification
Date: 2020-11-16
In the Old Dominion State, Charlottesville-based Pearl Certification is reporting the launch of its Green Door Web App, the virtual entryway to manage, maintain and improve a home's energy efficient performance.

Pearl Certification drives demand for home improvements like efficient heating and cooling systems, solar, and smart home devices by capturing their value for resale and appraisal. Pearl qualifies a network of contractors who improve home performance, and real estate professionals who ensure these homes are properly marketed and valued when sold. When marketed correctly, Pearl Certified homes can add 5 pct or more to a home's sale price, according to a company release. (Source: Pearl Certification, PR, 16 Nov., 2020) Contact: Peral Certification Green Door App, www.greendoor.app; Pearl Certification, Rachel Davis, VP, Lindsay Bachman, 412.443.2996, lindsay.bachman@pearlcertification.com, www.pearlcertification.com

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

Espoo, Caverion
Date: 2020-11-11
In Finland, the City of Espoo is reporting the selection of Caverion Finland as its service provider for the energy efficiency and remote management of building automation in its roughly 400 properties as well as renovated buildings and future new buildings.

Under the agreement, Caverion is responsible for the continuous monitoring and reporting of energy use, energy audits and certificates. Caverion is also responsible for the remote management of building automation and developing the related technical infrastructure. With the 24/7 monitoring of the property conditions and energy use, negative developments can be prevented. The collected data can also be utilized to further improve and develop the buildings' infrastructure. A dedicated energy manager will follow the effectiveness of energy efficiency related actions, and guide and calculate the savings potential. (Source: City of Espoo, PR, 10 Nov., 2020) Contact: Caverion Finland, Laura Karotie, Head of Managed Services , +358 50 326 9314, laura.karotie@caverion.com, www.caverion.com; City of Espoo, Mauri Laurila, Head of Premises, www.espoo.fi/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Espoo,  Caverion,  Energy Efficiency,  Energy Management,  

BOEM
Date: 2020-11-11
In Baton Rouge, Gov. John Bel Edwards (D) is calling for the US DOI Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to establish a task force that will coordinate commercial leasing proposals for wind energy in federal waters off Louisiana's coast thus creating a business path for the development of wind farms in the Gulf of Mexico.

A single 600-MW wind farm in the Gulf would produce an estimated 4,400 jobs and $445 million in economic output during the construction phase, based upon modeling the by U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Operations would contribute 150 new permanent jobs, along with an estimated $14 million in annual spending. By 2035, industry forecasts suggest U.S. offshore wind energy capacity could grow to 22 gigawatts through $70 billion of new capital investment in manufacturing and port infrastructure, as well as 45,000 new direct jobs, according to the Governor's release.

BOEM studies estimate the Gulf of Mexico could produce as much as 10 pct of U.S. wind energy. (Source: Office of Gov. John Bel Edwards, KATC News, 9 Nov., 2020) Contact: Office of Gov. John Bel Edwards Harry Vorhoff, Dir., Governor's Office of Coastal Activities. (225) 342-7015, (866)366-1121, gov.louisiana.gov; BOEM, Connie Gillette, Public Affairs, Walter Cruickshank, Acting Dir., (202) 208-6474, www.boem.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News BOEM,  Offshore Wind,  

Belmont Light
Date: 2020-11-11
In the Bay State, Belmont Light recently announced CleanComfort, a new educational and marketing program to connect customers interested in installing energy efficient air-source heat pumps with expert research, guidance throughout the installation process and available rebates on the emerging technology.

Belmont Light partnered with energy consulting firm, Abode Energy Management (Abode) of Concord, to manage the CleanComfort program. In addition to the pre-installation assistance, Abode will also work with heat pump installation contractors to review plans and ensure that systems are being installed in the most beneficial manner for customers, as well as performing quality assurance checks after installation is complete and aiding the customer in the rebate process.

Rebates between $650 and $2,000, depending on system size, are currently available for Belmont Light customers who install air-source heat pumps in their homes, with additional rebates of up to $1,500 available for homeowners who completely replace fossil fuel systems with heat pumps. (Source: Belmont Light, WickedLocal Belmont, 9 Nov., 2020) Contact: Belmont Light, Craig Spinale, GM, EnergyServices@BelmontLight.com, www.belmomtlight.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency Rebate,  

Asian Development Bank
Date: 2020-11-09
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced that it approved a concessional loan worth $7.74 million and a project grant worth $2.73 million to advance the existing "Preparing Outer Islands for Sustainable Energy Development (POISED)" project in the Maldives.

In January 2020, the ADB and Maldives' environment ministry began installation of solar battery-diesel hybrid systems on 48 iof the 160 inhabited islands of the atoll nation. According to its press statement, the project will further expand renewable-based hybrid systems, energy management systems, distribution grid upgrades, and supervisory control and data acquisition systems on 12 outer islands. Besides, a climate and disaster-resilient electricity distribution system will be developed in an outer island of Maldives. It will also perform a pilot test for a solar photovoltaic-based operated ferry for transportation.

The ADB said that the existing diesel-based power generation grids have been replaced in 70 outer islands by installing over 9.5 MW of solar capacity, 5.6 MWh of battery storage, and 11.6 MW of energy-efficient diesel generators. (Source: ADB, PR, Nov., 2020)Contact: Asian Development Bank, Takehiko Nakao, Pres. +63 2 632 4444, www.adb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Maldives,  Asian Development Bank,  Solar,  PV,  

Building Engineering Services Association
Date: 2020-10-30
In the UK, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and the Energy Services Technology Association (ESTA) are reporting the establishment of the Energy Efficiency in Buildings Group to promote awareness and the economic benefits of energy demand reduction, energy management and building energy efficiency to government, business organisations and relevant trade associations.

BESA and ESTA will retain their independence, but plans for the Energy Efficiency in Buildings Group include a combined newsletter and webinars to share information with a wider audience. The group will also enable the associations to work together on areas such as the Youth Stem Summit and Young People in Engineering, where energy management is a link. (Source: BESA, Cooling Post, 29 Oct., 2020) Contact: BESA, www.thebesa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Buidling Energy Efficiency,  

Singapore
Date: 2020-10-28
In his opening remarks at the Singapore International Energy Week on Monday (Oct 26), Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing announced the government has set aside S$49 million to fund low-carbon energy R&D and test-bedding efforts in hydrogen and carbon capture utilization and storage. The Minister also noted the government "hopes its green initiatives and energy management system can be an inspiration to the urban societies across the world." (Source: Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry, PR, 27 Oct., 2020) Contact: Singapore Ministry for Trade and Industry, +65 6225 9911, www.mti.gov.sg

More Low-Carbon Energy News Low-Carbon Energy,  CCS,  CCUS,  

Orsted
Date: 2020-10-28
Danish renewable energy developer Orsted reports it is waiting for permitting "clarity" from the US DOI Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's (BOEM) environmental impact study of offshore wind projects on the Outer Continental Shelf.

Orsted now foresees clarity on the permitting timelines being pushed to late 2020 or even into 2021. "Even assuming the permitting process starts moving within the first quarter next year, it appears highly likely that the Revolution Wind, Ocean Wind, Skipjack and Sunrise Wind projects will be delayed beyond the previously expected 2023 and 2024 construction years," the company said. (Source: Orsted, PR, 28 Oct., 2020) Contact: Orsted, www.orsted.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Orsted,  Offshore Wind,  

BayWa r.e.,Alliander
Date: 2020-10-23
BayWa r.e. and its Dutch subsidiary GroenLeven are reporting a contract for the operation of the SinneWetterstof Hydrogen Pilot Project. The project is being built by the Netherland's largest energy developer and operator Alliander N.V. to research and test how local hydrogen production can follow the generation profile of a solar plant to ultimately reduce grid congestion.

This project, which is expected to be operational by late 2021, will source energy from a 50 MWp solar farm, previously built by GroenLeven, to generate green hydrogen as a storable form of energy by electrolysis of water.

Alliander N.V. provides utility services. The Company distributes electricity, gas, and heat, as well as offers solutions for energy metering and energy management (Source: Bay Wa r.e., Website PR, 21 Oct., 2020) Contact: BaWa r.e.,Manfred Groh, Strategy Manager, Corporate Strategy, Energy Policy & Sustainability, www.baywa-re.com; Alliander, +31 0 88 542 6363, www.alliander.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BayWa,  Hydrogen,  Solar,  Energy STorage,  

US DOE,
Date: 2020-10-23
One hundred and four U.S. companies, schools, governments, and institutions are taking their building energy savings to a new level with the 4-year US DOE Smart Energy Analytics Campaign funded through the Building Technologies Office (BETO) and facilitated by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) to expand the use of energy management and information systems (EMIS) in commercial buildings.

The Campaign helped drive approximately 4 trillion BTUs of annual energy savings -- enough to power more than 44,000 U.S. households for a year -- reducing the campaign participants' collective energy bills by $95 million a year. The research also enabled Berkeley Lab to create the world's largest collection of data on building energy analytics -- the first real-world, large-scale body of evidence of EMIS' value to commercial buildings. Nationwide, if buildings throughout the commercial sector adopted EMIS best practices, the resulting savings in annual energy costs could total $4 billion.

The campaign, a public-private partnership with businesses and public-sector organizations, has supported cutting-edge analytics technology use in over 6,500 buildings totaling 567 million sq-ft of floor space. It allowed Berkeley Lab experts to offer technical assistance and provide industry partners with frequent opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction, including exchanging best practices.

Researchers found that average installation and software costs ranged from two to eight cents per square foot, depending on the type of EMIS system. The median participant saved approximately $3 million in annual energy costs across their portfolio and re-couped associated costs over a two-year period.

Although the Smart Energy Analytics Campaign is concluding, its work will continue through DOE's Better Buildings program with ongoing support from the team of experts at Berkeley Lab. The Smart Energy Analytics Campaign is one of several successful Better Buildings Alliance technology drives, led by DOE's national laboratories, that aim to accelerate adoption of efficient building technologies by providing technical assistance, resources, and guidance on best practices. (Source: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, PR, Website, Oct., 2020) Contact: LBNL, Building Technology & Urban Systems Division, Jessica Granderson, Research Deputy, Better Buildings Campaign, HERE; BETO, www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/building-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News DOE Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory,  BETO,  Energy Efficiency,  

Storz Power, Lumin
Date: 2020-10-21
Charlottesville, Virginia-based energy storage and smart automation specialist Storz Power is reporting a strategic alliance with Scottsdale, Arizona's LUMIN®, maker of the leading energy management platform in the U.S. and Caribbean. The pairing enhances Storz Power's AI+Smart Access by providing grid-responsive load shedding technology, automating off-grid back up operation.

Storz Power specializes in AI+ enabled energy storage and IOT technologies for the renewable industry. Connecting all things energy with real time automation at any level for a smarter, more robust and efficient deployment. Storz Power ESS and BESS are also compliant with the ADR 2.0 Alliance for all current and future distributed grid, utility and micro grid level controllable assets needing to be deployed.

The LUMIN® platform helps home and building owners automatically make decisions about their energy use based on a myriad of factors including; solar production, battery state of charge, battery output power, electricity pricing, and grid requirements. (Source: LUMIN, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: StorzPower, Everett Brewer, CEO, www.Storzpower.com ; LUMIN, Val Newcomb. VP Marketing, (434) 806-1159, val.newcomb@luminsmart.com, www.luminsmart.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Storz Power,  Lumin,  Energy Storage,  Battery,  

Enphase Energy, SunCool
Date: 2020-10-21
Freemnont, California-based Enphase Energy, Inc., a global energy technology company and solar microinverter supplier, reports Boca Raton-based SunCool Energy is now offering the Enphase Encharge™ storage system in South Florida.

Encharge storage systems feature Enphase Ensemble™ energy management technology, which powers the world's first fully integrated, grid-agnostic microinverter-based solar-plus-storage system.

With a grid-agnostic system and fail-safe design with multiple, redundant microinverters in each storage device and a passive cooling system with no moving parts, the Encharge storage system offers maximum reliability and energy independence when the grid goes down and saves money when the grid is up. Encharge storage systems offers a maintenance-free battery system, remote software upgrades, and a limited 10-year warranty. (Source: Enphase Energy Inc., PR, 20 Oct., 2020) Contact: Enphase, Christian Zdebel, (484) 788-2384, pr@enphase.com; SunCool Energy, Greg Gearhart, (855) 446-2786, info@suncoolenergy.com, www.suncoolenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enphase Energy,  Solar Energy Storage,  Solar,  Energy Storage,  

Dominion Energy,Orsted
Date: 2020-10-16
In the Old Dominion State, Richmond-based Dominion Energy is reporting the two-turbine, 12-MW Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) pilot project 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach has completed reliability testing and is ready to enter commercial service. Installation of the two pilot turbines was completed in June. Orsted served as the offshore engineering, procurement and construction lead for the pilot project.

The next significant regulatory step for CVOW is to submit the final documentation for the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to complete its technical review, which is expected to be complete by the end of the year. The turbines will remain in operation during this review process. CVOW is the only project currently permitted under the BOEM process and will be the first fully operational wind power generation facility in U.S. federal waters with the capability to generate enough electricity to power up to 3,000 Virginia homes.

Offshore wind generation is a major component of Dominion Energy's comprehensive clean energy strategy to meet standards mandated in the Virginia Clean Economy Act and to achieve the company's net-zero carbon dioxide and methane emissions commitment by 2050. (Source: Dominion Energy, PR, 15 Oct., 2020) Contact: Dominion Energy, Joshua Bennett, VP Offshore Wind, www.DominionEnergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Offshore Wind,  Dominion Energy,  Orsted,  

Equiwatt
Date: 2020-10-12

Electriq Power
Date: 2020-10-02
In the Golden State, San Leandro-based home energy storage, management, and monitoring solution specialist Electriq Power reports it will acquire Boston-based Lilypad Energy for an undisclosed sum.

Lilypad Energy offers data analytics solutions for the energy industry, with focusing on battery energy storage applications. The company's software was designed to evaluate and assess revenue generation opportunities from interventional curtailment for demand response, ancillary services, and other forms of system balancing grid-services (Source: Electriq Power, PR, 30 Sept., 2020) Contact: Electriq Power, CEO, Frank Magnotti, (855) 206-9462, info@electriqpower.com, www.electriqpower.com; LilyPad Energy, hmeyer@lilypadenergy.com, www.lilypad.energy

More Low-Carbon Energy News Electriq Power,  Lilypad Energy,  Energy Management,  

OpenRemote
Date: 2020-09-30
In the Netherlands, the city of Arnhem is reporting the selection of OpenRemote's open source data management platform to automate the city's distributed energy system, combining solar and wind power installation, battery storage at the Kleefsewaard industrial park.

OpenRemote's open-source IoT platform forecasts power generation, consumption and carbon costs for the upcoming 24 hours. These data points are used to define optimal charging and discharging cycles for the energy storage unit. The application will feature a dashboard to enable energy managers to supervise the whole system and monitor financial and carbon savings through a set of performance indicators. (Source: City of Arnhem, PR, Bunkerspot, 30 Sept., 2020) Contact: OpenRemote, www.openremote.io

More Low-Carbon Energy News OpenRemote,  Energy Management,  

Schneider Electric, Green Energy Options
Date: 2020-09-18
In the UK, energy management and automation specialist Schneider Electric is reporting a partnership with Cambridge-based smart home energy specialist Green Energy Options (GEO) to advance home energy management systems in the UK.

The partnership joind GEO's innovative, agile product development and data insights with Schneider's energy management technology and extensive channel network, according to the release.

According to the Climate Change Committee (CCC), the UK will miss its 2050 zero carbon goals without almost entirely eliminating greenhouse gas emissions from Britain's 29 million homes. "Developing a net zero home requires smarter, more connected and more efficient mass market solutions", according to the Schneider release. (Source: Schneider Electric, PR, ECA Today, 17 Sept., 2020) Contact: Green Energy Options, Patrick Caiger-Smith, CEO , +44 (0)1223 850 210, www.geotogether.com; Schneider Electric, Mike Hughes, Zone President UK & Ireland, www.se.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric,  Energy Storage,  Energy Management,  Green Energy Options ,  

Smarter Grid Solutions,Stantec
Date: 2020-08-31
Glasgow-based energy software specialist Smarter Grid Solutions (SGS) reports the Thames Valley Live Lab has gone live. The project brings engineering consultancy Stantec, SGS and six local authorities together to implement their required moves towards net-zero carbon emissions.

In 2019, the cloud-based project partnership was awarded £4.5 million as part of the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) SMART Places Live Labs Programme -- two-year £22.9 million project funded by the Department for Transport and supported by project partners SNC-Lavalin's Atkins business, EY, Kier, O2, Ringway, and WSP.

Local authorities are working on 8 projects across England to introduce digital innovation across SMART mobility, transport, highways maintenance, data, energy and communications.

The Live Labs system is based on SGS's ANM Strata fleet distributed energy resources management system (DERMS) to create the Smart Energy Operations Platform (SEOP). (Source: Smarter Grid Solutions, Energy, 30 Aug., 2020) Contact: Smarter Grid Solutions, Graham Ault, executive director, www.smartergridsolutions.com; Stantec, www.stantec.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Stantec,  Smarter Grid Solutions,  Energy Management,  Smart Grid,  

Schneider Electric
Date: 2020-08-31
Energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy management and automation specialist Schneider Electric is reporting an agreement with Egypt's Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy to establish 14 distribution control centres across Egypt. The centres would be established in three phases within 30 months. Four would be operationalized in Phase 1, and five each in Phases 2 and 3 at a total estimated cost of $869 million.

The agreement is within the framework of a national plan to establish smart distribution and control centres that would accelerate the adoption of renewable energy and become the backbone of Egypt's energy grid.

Schneider Electric notes it is participating in the development of smart cities in Egypt including the New Administrative Capital and New El Alamein cities, supplying them with its EcoStruxure technology for the management of utilities. (Source: Schneider Electric Egypt, Zawya, 31 Aug., 2020) Contact: Schneider Electric Egypt, +20 2-2618-9189, www.se.com

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

Offshore Wind
Date: 2020-08-24
New England for Offshore Wind, a regional coalition that supports the development of offshore wind power, reports it expects to announce its official launch this week. According to the group, which includes environmental advocacy organizations, educational institutions, justice and health organizations, and business alliances, offshore wind power is necessary to address growing energy demands as more power plants go off line in the coming years.

The federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is currently weighing concerns from commercial fishermen, environmentalists, coastal communities and other stakeholders before deciding where leases on the Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of Maine might be allocated and where they wouldn't be allowed. The first offshore wind farm is still six to 10 years from operation, according to the New England for Offshore Wind release. (Source: New England for Offshore Wind, PR, reve, 22 Aug., 2020) Contact: New England for Offshore Wind, www.newenglandforoffshorewind.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Offshore Wind,  

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-08-21
In Iqaluit, the Nunavut Minister of Northern Affairs and the Canadian federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change have announced an investment to support the South Baffin Energy Management Project. The project will help improve energy efficiency and introduce renewable energy in 45 buildings owned by the Government of Nunavut in the six communities that make up the South Baffin region.

The South Baffin Energy Management Project will receive $18.3 million through the Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund and $8.6 million from the Nunavut Department of Community and Government Services. Over the project's lifetime it is projected to cut 24,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades will include: solar panel installations; LED lighting; mechanical and control-system upgrades; building-envelope improvements; measures, such as air sealing; low-flow water-saving fixtures, and others. (Source: CNW Group. 20 Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Schneider Electric, Huck Capital
Date: 2020-08-17
Global energy efficiency and energy management services specialist Schneider Electric and San Francisco-based Huck Capital have announced a partnership to create a new company that will deliver energy-as-a-service to commercial and industrial buildings -- combining Schneider's energy management and microgrid expertise with Huck's sustainability-focused investment and operational focus.

According to the release, this partnership creates an innovative alternative for building owners and operators who want to transition to renewable energy to lower emissions, increase resiliency, and reduce energy consumption and costs without investing in renewable energy assets and relying on specialists to operate the microgrid. (Source: Schneider Electric, PR, EC&M, 17 Aug., 2020) Contact: Huck Capital, Steve McBee, info@huckcapital.com, www.huchcapital.com; Schneider Electric, Emmanuel Lagarrigue, Chief Innovation Officer, www.schneider-electric.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric,  Energy Efficiency,  Energy-as-a-Service,  

Greece
Date: 2020-08-12
In Athens, the Greek Energy Ministry reports it is preparing a €850 million program to support energy efficiency in the private buildings sector.

The program aims to introduce energy saving measures and energy efficiency upgrade subsidies of as much as 85 pct -- to a maximum of €50,000 -- to 60,000 Greek households per year until 2030.

The program would cover: insulation improvements, solar system installations, energy storage, smart energy management systems, smart lighting with remote control, HVAC upgrades and other energy saving measures. The program is expected to launch this fall. (Source: Balkan Green Energy News, 11 Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Maryland Energy Administration
Date: 2020-08-07
In Maryland, Frostburg State University is reporting receipt of $100,000 in grant funding from the Maryland Energy Administration's "Resilient Maryland" program. The funding will be used to plan a campus-scale microgrid that will bolster campus energy resilience, improve energy efficiency and further the school's sustainability goals .

A total of 14 grant applications were awarded $1.05 million in funding in this pilot program. Funded projects -- including microgrids -- will be designed to optimize a mix of technologies providing resiliency, cost savings and/or simplified energy management for renewable energy, combined heat and power, energy efficiency, energy storage and energy management software. (Source: Maryland Energy Administration, Frostburg State Univ., Garret County Republican, 7 Aug., 2020) Contact: Maryland Energy Administration Resilient Maryland program, energy.maryland.gov/business/pages/ResilientMaryland.aspx; Frostburg State University, 301-687-4000, www.frostburg.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Maryland Energy Administration news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Energy Management news,  Energy Storage news,  

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,  

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,  

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,  

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,  

Panasonic,Span
Date: 2020-07-06
N.J.-based Panasonic is reporting a strategic alliance with "smart" electric panel maker Span to deliver a combined energy storage and management offering that will give homeowners a new level of control over their battery backup power with intuitive energy management for the entire home.

When paired with EverVolt, Panasonic's residential home energy storage solution, consumers gain more control over battery backup power and access to simple whole-home energy management. Panasonic's EverVolt, available in AC- and DC-coupled versions, supports existing or new solar systems, and can be scaled down to as little as 11.4kWh of energy storage or expanded to 34.2kWh and comes equipped with advanced software. (Source: Panasonic, kerala, July, 2020) Contact: Panasonic Residential Solar www.na.panasonic.com/us/solar; Span, Arch Rao, CEO, www.span.io/panasonic-evervolt

More Low-Carbon Energy News Panasonic news,  Span news,  Battery news,  Energy Storage news,  Energy Management news,  

Australia Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-07-06
In the Land Down Under, the Australian Government's Energy Efficient Communities Program is offering a total of $9 million in grants of up to $20,000 each to small businesses for energy audits, to upgrade equipment to reduce energy consumption, energy management systems and other energy efficiency initiatives and technologies aimed at cutting power consumption and costs. These grants build on other Government policies like retail price caps that are already delivering lower energy costs for small business owners.

The Energy Efficient Communities Program was announced as part of the Government's Climate Solutions Package in the 2019 Federal Budget. The Government is also offering free advice to help small businesses and their representatives get better energy deals and increase their energy efficiency through the Business Energy Advice Program (BEAP). (Source: Gov. of Australia, BEAP, July, 2020) Contact: BEAP , Energy Efficient Communities Program , www.energy.gov.au

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

Legend Power Systems
Date: 2020-06-26
Vancouver-based intelligent power management specialist Legend Power® Systems is reporting its 304th SmartGATE™ platform installation.

The SmartGATE platform: decreases operating costs and improves operating income; increases uptime and lifetime of key systems and machinery; significantly contributes to corporate ESG measures and mandates; and improves tenant experience and occupancy, according to the company release.

Collectively the installations have operated trouble-free for 2.044 million hours and saved 110.736 million kWh of energy for more than $17.7 million in energy costs savings for US and Canadian commercial buildings.

SmartGATE Insights™ metering and analytics is available as a portable diagnostic service to scope building priorities before installation and continuing to supply detailed power analytics on an ongoing basis post-installation. Legend is also enhancing SmartGATE's overall capabilities with SmartGATE 2.0 for additional electrical savings, more detailed power quality data and improved ease of installation, the company notes. (Source: Legend Power Systems Inc., PR, 27 June, 2020) Contact: Legend Power Systems, Randy Buchamer, CEO, Steve Vanry, CFO, (6040 671-9533, svanry@legendpower.com, www.legendpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Legend Power Systems,  Energy Management,  Energy Efficiency ,  

City of Lisbon,Sharing Cities
Date: 2020-06-24
In Porutgal, the city of Lisbon is reporting energy consumption at Lisbon's 1880 vintage City Hall has been reduced by 36 pct through what has been hailed as the "first deep energy-efficiency retrofit for a heritage building in Portugal."

Measures to reduce energy usage included replacing the building's HVAC system, switching to LED lighting, installing solar panels and a Sustainable Energy Management System (SEMS) to monitor the loads from the PVs, HVAC, water heaters and other equipment.

Developed by Sharing Cities, the SEMS advanced modular system centralises information and control of local energy systems and devices, and optimises the energy network.

Lisbon originally planned a full energy retrofit of the building in 2016 under the EU Horizon 2020 Sharing Cities programme. (Source: City of Lisbon, Cities Today, 23 June, 2020) Contact: EU Horizon 2020 Sharing Cities, www.sharingcities.eu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency news,  Sharing Cities news,  

SoCalGas, Southern California Gas
Date: 2020-06-22
In the Golden State, Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) and the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) have announced completion of two joint energy efficiency projects that will save UCSB 66,000 therms per year of energy -- equal to removing about 350 metric tpy of greenhouse gas emissions.

Both projects were part of California's joint Energy Efficiency Partnership between state universities and investor-owned utilities. Over the last five years, SoCalGas has supported 184 energy-efficiency projects, saving university campuses 6,000,000 therms of energy -- a $6 million savings -- and providing more than $6,300,000 in incentives through this state program.

The first of the two UCSB projects began in 2018 as part of the university's high opportunity projects and programs (HOPP's) initiative. SoCalGas and Southern California Edison co-funded the project which investigated how best to update two important laboratories at the university.

The utilities conducted an energy management plan to document and list the savings, costs and measures to implement an energy efficient system. The utilities identified multiple measures to reduce energy consumption in the building's lighting and HVAC systems by installing occupancy sensors, wireless thermostats and low-power LED lights. The campus also added high efficiency dedicated natural gas boilers to each building. A new chilled water system including a cooling tower, and pumps were also installed. The project resulted in natural gas savings of 60,959 therms, and the university received an incentive from SoCalGas of $152,000.

UCSB also installed an ozone laundry system to support its laundering of uniforms and sports gear for the university's athletic department which was eligible for a rebate from SoCalGas in the amount of $5,850 and will save the university about 5,880 therms of energy. (Source: SoCanGas, PR, Noozhawk, 19 June, 2020) Contact: SoCalGas, Brian Prusnek, Director of Customer Programs , (800) 427-2200, www.socalgas.com; UCSB, Jordan Sager, Energy Manager, 805-893-8000, www.ucsb.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Southern California Gas ,  Energy Efficiency,  

Panasonic,Span
Date: 2020-06-10
U.S.-based electric panel manufacturer Span Inc reports it is partnering with Panasonic to offer a combined energy storage and residential energy management product that pairs Panasonic's EverVolt residential battery system, which comes in two sizes: 11.4 kWh and 17.1 kWh , with Span's electric panel.

Span's electric panel is designed to monitor and control up to 32 circuits, all managed through a smartphone app . The Panasonic systems are intended for indoor usage and are available in DC-coupled or AC-coupled versions and can be retrofitted to existing solar systems. (Source: Span Inc., PV Mag., June, 2020) Contact: Span Inc, Arch Rao, CEO, www.span.io, www.span.io/panasonic-evervolt

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Storage news,  Panasonic news,  Battery news,  

Cork Ireland, ISO 50001
Date: 2020-06-05
In Ireland, the Cork City Council has achieved international certification for its commitment to energy efficiency within the organisation and therefore to reducing its carbon footprint. The international ISO 50001 standard outlines international best practice in energy management within an organisation.

Cork City Council's certification was achieved after an extensive audit of the organisation's energy management system. The achievement assists Cork City Council in meeting national energy efficiency targets of a 33 pct improvement in energy efficiency by the end of this year and a 50 pct efficiency improvement by 2030.

Cork City Council achieved a 31.5 pct improvement in energy efficiency up to the end of 2018 compared to the baseline year of 2009. This puts Cork City Council 5 pct ahead of the target glide-path to meet its 2020 target. It will also contribute to the implementation of the Cork City Council's Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and the Sustainable Energy Climate Action Plan. (Source: Cork City Council, Cork Safety Alerts News, 4 Jun, 2020) Contact: Cork City Council, +353 21 496 6222, www.corkcity.ie; ISO 50001, www.iso.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News ISO 50001 news,  Energy Management news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

Q Cells
Date: 2020-06-03
In the Land Down Under, Newcastle, New South Wales-based SwitchDin is reporting receipt of a $5 million investment from global solar giant Q-Cells. The investment will help further develop SwitchDin's DER energy management and storage technology while helping Q Cell move beyond rooftops to vertically integrated clean energy solutions.

SwitchDin gives energy companies -- network operators, electricity retailers and integrated utilities -- the tools they need to securely integrate and manage diverse mixes of small-scale distributed energy resources (DERs) to optimise system-wide outcomes for everyone.

The company works with players across the energy sector, with clients and partners that include not only utilities, but also equipment manufacturers, solar installers and energy end-users themselves, according to the company website. (Source: SwitchDin, Website, One Stop Off the Grid, June, 2020) Contact: SwitcheDin, Andrew Mears, CEO, +61 2 4786 0426, www.switchdin.com; Hanwha Q Cells, Charles Kim, CEO, www.hanwha-qcells.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Q Cell,  

National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Date: 2020-06-01
The US DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) reports it is exploring the possibilities of using blockchain for renewable energy. To that end, NREL will work with energy utility, Exelon, and the Energy Web Foundation (EWF) to research blockchain for community-based energy markets.

The project will focus on enhancing coordination between utilities and consumers and finding ways to connect distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar panels to local distribution networks by using digital identity and hardware created by NREL's Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF).

NREL plans to leverage blockchain to create a scalable solution for electricity feeders, which can be customized as desired. Currently, they are running a virtual pilot that connects electric vehicles, smart appliances, batteries, and other components, to a blockchain.

NREL is a member of Blockchain for Optimized Security and Energy Management (BLOSEM), and provides expertise on accelerating blockchain adoption in the energy sector. The BLOSEM project is led by the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) and is funded by the Grid Modernization Laboratory Consortium. (Source: NREL, COINGEEK, 30 May, 2020) Contact: NREL, Dane Christensen, dane.christensen@nrel.gov, www.nrel.gov; Excelon, www.exeloncorp.com; Web Foundation, www.energyweb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Renewable Energy Laboratory ,  NREL,  Renewable Energy,  Exelon,  ,  

Puget Sound Energy,Klickitat Public Utility District
Date: 2020-05-20
Bellvue, Washington-based Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is reporting an agreement to purchase renewable natural gas (RNG) from Klickitat Public Utility District (PUD) from July 2020 to June 2040. Klickitat PUD has been a leader in the renewable energy sector for more than 20 years. The RNG will be produced at the H.W. Hill Renewable Gas facility in Roosevelt, Washington. The volume of energy produced at the facility is the equivalent of 18 million gpy of gasoline.

Under the first phase of the agreement, PSE will purchase around 550,000 dekatherms (dth) per year for the first three years. In the second phase, PSE will purchase around 1.65-1.9 million dth per year, which could grow to 2.5 million for the remainder of the contract. (Source: Puget Sound Energy, Bioenergy Insights, 18 May, 2020) Contact: Klickitat PUD, Dan Gunkel, Board President, 509-493-2255, www.klickitat.com; PSE, David Mills, Snr. VP, CSO, Bob Stolarski, Director Energy Management and Renewables, (425) 454-2000, www.pse.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Puget Sound Energy,  RNG,  

Ameresco, New Hampshire
Date: 2020-05-13
In the Bay State, Framingham-headquartered energy efficiency and renewable energy specialist Ameresco Inc. Ameresco reports it and the State of New Hampshire have entered into an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) for energy conservation measures at 21 state facilities in New Hampshire's Seacoast Region.

By utilizing an Energy Savings Performance Contract, the State will save energy without incurring any up-front costs and pay for the energy improvements with the realized energy savings, estimated to be over $4 million over the 20-year contract term.

Specific energy conservation measures include: lighting system improvements, new energy management systems, demand-controlled ventilation, chiller replacement, new windows, high-efficiency pumps, infiltration reductions, pipe insulation, new transformers, three solar PV arrays and automatic temperature controls, all of which is expected to be complete in March 2021. (Source: Ameresco, PR, Renewables 11 May, 2020) Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, Exec.VP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  

New York City
Date: 2020-05-11
In the Empire State, the Big Apple is reporting the updating its New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) which will be current with the New York State 2020 Energy Conservation Construction Code.

The State code is based on the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2016. The 2020 NYCECC will become effective May 12, 2020, the same effective date as the state's energy code which aligns the code with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) NYStretch Energy Code-2020, as adopted by the New York City Council on March 29, 2020.

The 2020 New York City Energy Code includes energy efficiency requirements help to improve overall building envelope performance through installation of better performing and more energy efficient windows and other initiatives.

Access the 2020 NYC Energy Conservation Code HERE (Source: NYC City Council, Door & Window Market, 8 May, 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Building Energy Eficiency,  Energy Management,  Energy Conservation,  ASHRAE,  NYSERDA,  

energyOrbit
Date: 2020-05-08
A new Energy Efficiency Impact Report from San Francisco-based cloud energy efficiency and Demand-Side Management specialist energyOrbit unveils the energy and cost savings for residents and businesses by aggregating data from its customers, including utility companies and other energy efficiency (EE) organizations.

The report notes that $3.7 billion in incentives were paid to businesses and households and benefited customers participating in energy rebate programs. Enterprises also contributed to a cleaner atmosphere, taking the equivalent of 3.6 million passenger cars off the road, while avoiding 16.7 million metric tons of COշ.

For its report, energyOrbit tallied data from investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives and third-party implementers in the U.S. and Canada since 2008. The numbers have been charted in two areas: Total Energy Savings and Incentive Payments. The report also highlights the following savings reference points: Annual electricity use of 2.8 million homes; 4.4 coal-fired plants not in use; 3,600 wind turbines running for a year; 22 million acres of U.S. forests planted in one year , and 54 percent of New York City electricity consumption per year.

As of 2019, energyOrbit has helped utilities and third-party implementers manage more than 24 TWh of electricity savings. Additionally, 11 GW of peak demand has been reduced by efficiency measures tracked by energyOrbit. Additionally, over $3.7 billion in incentives have been managed and prepared for payment. (Source: energyOrbit, PR, 5 May, 2020) Contact: energyOrbit, Udi Merhav, CEO , 866-628-8744, www.energy-orbit.com

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

Deutsche Energie-Agentur
Date: 2020-05-04
In Berlin, the Deutsche Energie-Agentur (German Energy Agency) reports the launch of its Energy Efficiency Award 2020 and is seeking submissions from private and public organizations that will help companies cut energy consumption and emissions that have an impact on the climate.

The €30,000 Energy Efficiency Award 2020 is focused on cutting industrial energy consumption, increasing energy efficiency, reducing emissions and generally stimulating the transition to clean energy. The award is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi).

Companies of any size and from any industry in Germany or abroad can submit one or more competition entries in the following categories:

Complex energy efficiency projects -- For a long time, companies have been implementing multi-layered energy efficiency projects where a large number of measures have to be coordinated with one another. Here systematic thinking and integrated solutions are being sought.

From clever to digital / the broad spectrum of energy efficiency -- In this category, low-investment measures are being sought just as much as mature technologies, or digitally supported optimization using software solutions or artificial intelligence, e.g. as part of an energy management system.

Achieving more together -- Energy Services as enabler of the energy transition The involvement of service providers is particularly useful where ambitious ideas hit up against limited finances, resources or lack of expertise. Such involvement can range from conception, planning and implementation of a system to finance, system control and maintenance.

Concepts for carbon neutral companies -- Innovative ideas and new approaches for a green economy. The energy transition needs innovative ideas. Companies that pursue new approaches to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, or conceive the energy transition in cross-sectoral or holistic terms.

Download Energy Efficiency Award 2020 details at www.EnergyEfficiencyAward.de. (Source: Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH, May, 2020) Contact: Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH, Tom Raulien , +49 (0)30 66 777-652, +49 (0)30 66 777-699 - fax, raulien@dena.de; www.dena.de

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Wartsila
Date: 2020-05-01
Wartsila reports it is finalizing a 70MW energy storage and energy management system project in the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) energy market. The system will be paired with Wartsila's GEMS software platform to maximize system efficiencies and add renewable power to the grid as needed. The project is expected to be complete by mid-2020.

This project is Wartsila's largest energy storage deployment tied to a renewable resource in the western U.S. To date the company has deployed more than 70 energy storage systems worldwide. (Source: Wartsila, PR, April, 2020) Contact: Wartsila, Risto Paldanius, Energy Storage Bus. Dev., www.wartsila.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Wartsila,  Energy Storage,  

TalkPool,Semtech
Date: 2020-05-01
Camarillo, California-based performance analog and semiconductor specialist Semtech Corporation reports Talkpool, a provider of global Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and telecommunication network services, has incorporated Semtech's LoRa® devices and the LoRaWAN® protocol into its new line of sensor solutions for smart home energy monitoring and energy consumption reduction applications.

Additionally, Talkpool's LoRa-based solutions assist in establishing building compliance with leading sustainability initiatives including LEED and BREEAM certifications. IoT networks based on the LoRaWAN® specification have been deployed in 100 countries. (Source: Semtech, PR, April, 2020) Contact: TalkPool, www.talkpool.com; Semtech, Ronda Grech, (805) 250-1263, rgrech@semtech.com, www.semtech.com

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

CLEAResult
Date: 2020-05-01
Austin, Texas-based utility energy efficiency program specialist CLEAResult reports it is bringing its Virtual Assessment and Assurance offering to market through a partnership with Streem, an award-winning technology firm and part of the Frontdoor portfolio of brands.

The Virtual Assessment and Assurance remote-support platform enables professional energy consumption and energy efficiency assessments and post-assessment quality checks to be conducted remotely.

CLEAResult is the largest provider of energy efficiency and demand response solutions in North America. The company's innovative technology has helped over 250 utilities change the way people use energy, according to the company release. CLEAResult is a portfolio company of the private equity firm TPG and The Rise Fund, a global impact fund led by TPG. (Source: CLEAResult, PR, 30 April, 2020) Contact: CLEAResult, CEO Scott Boose. 888-812-6146 www. clearesult.com; Streem, Ryan Fink, www.angel.co/p/rynfnk

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

Asian Development Bank
Date: 2020-04-27
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) reports approval of a $100 million loan to help supply renewable energy to coal dependent Mongolia by installing its first large-scale advanced battery energy storage system (BESS).

The project will install 125 mw of advanced BESS, making it among the largest battery storage systems globally. The system will include a battery energy management system enabling it to be charged entirely by renewable electricity. The project is expected to come in at $114.95 million, of which $3 million is co-financed by a grant from ADB's High-Level Technology Fund, financed by the Government of Japan. The Mongolian government will provide $11.95 million toward the cost of the project, which is due for completion in September 2024. (Source: Asian Dev. Bank, April, 2020)Contact: Asia Development Bank, Takehiko Nakao, Pres. +63 2 632 4444, www.adb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Asian Development Bank,  Battery Energy Storage,  BESS,  

US DOE
Date: 2020-04-27
The U.S. DOE has announced $25 million in funding for 10 projects as part of the Performance-based Energy Resource Feedback, Optimization, and Risk Management(PERFORM) program. These projects will work to develop innovative management systems that represent the relative delivery risk of each asset, like wind farms or power plants, and balance the collective risk of all assets across the grid.

PERFORM teams will design risk scores that communicate the delivery risk of an asset's offer, such as the reliability of electricity from a solar plant due to the weather on a given day. They will also develop grid management systems that internally capture uncertainty and evaluate the system risk to meet or exceed a set baseline. This risk-driven paradigm will enable grid operators to better maintain a supply-demand balance and system reliability, even with the intermittency of renewables. In turn, they can optimally manage the system and assess the true value of essential reliability services in real time, allowing for a more diverse energy mix.

Details and sampling of PERFORM projects HERE. (Source: US EPA, April, 2020) Contact: US DOE ARPA, www.arpa-e.energy.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News US DOE,  Energy Management,  Smart Grid,  

Virginia Green Travel Alliance
Date: 2020-04-27
The Virginia Green Travel Alliance is reporting the Capital Region Airport Commission (Richmond Airport) is receiving the Virginia Green Travel Star Award as the 2019 Green Transportation Facility of the Year for its concerted efforts to reduce its environmental impacts.

The Virginia Green program is run through a partnership between the Virginia DEQ, Virginia Tourism Corporation, the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association, and the Virginia Green Travel Alliance. Recent Sustainability Measures at RIC include:

The Airport maintains over 75 recycling containers and encourages travelers and employees to participate in the recycling program. In the past four years, over 100 tons of material has been recycled;

In addition to purchasing Green Seal Certified products, the Airport also ensures that paper products are made from recycled material;

Water-efficient products have been installed to reduce consumption by 50 pct;

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) EasyPark parking shuttles effectively reduce tailpipe emissions and ambient noise;

Various lighting systems have been upgraded to T5, T8 and LEDs and compact florescent lighting has replaced incandescent lights in canned lighting;

Electric carts replaced light-duty maintenance vehicles for use by Baggage Handling Systems Department and Utilities and Grounds Department;

Automated building management, mechanical, and LED lighting systems are utilized across airport property;

Energy-efficient glass is utilized throughout public spaces; Energy-efficient white thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) membrane roofing is used to reflect heat and cools roofs;

An Energy Management System is utilized to ensure optimal operation of all HVAC equipment. (Source: Virginia Green Travel Alliance. WWBT , 24 April, 2020) Contact: Virginia Green Travel Alliance; Tom Griffin, Exec. Dr., www.virginiagreen.net; Capital Region Airport Commission, Perry J. Miller, A.A.E., I.A.P., Pres., CEO, 804-226-3000, www.flyrichmond.com

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

Dominion Energy
Date: 2020-04-22
In the Old Dominion State, Richmond-headquartered Dominion Energy is reporting turbine components and monopiles for its pilot Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) pilot project are en-route to North America.

The project's foundations, consisting of the turbines' monopiles, transition pieces and anode cages were fabricated by EEW SPC. Installation of the two 6-megawatt Siemens Gamesa turbines 27 miles offshore, is expected to begin later this spring for commissioning and startup by the end of the year. At peak production, the pilot project will power 3,000 homes.

Also this month, Dominion Energy is conducting ocean surveys to map the seabed of the 112,800-acre lease area where the company's 2,600-MW CVOW project will be built beginning in 2024. These surveys will support the development of the project's Construction and Operations Plan to be submitted to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) later this year. (Source: Dominion Energy InsideNova, 21 April, 2020) Contact: Dominion Energy, Mark D. Mitchell, VP Generation Construction, www.dominionenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Dominion Energy,  Offshore Wind,  Siemens Gamesa,