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,  

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,  

US DOE
Date: 2021-08-25
The City of Bellevue Washington and Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) have developed a toolkit to give cities more detail on what is driving changes in local greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from year to year. Supported by a financial assistance award from the Department of Energy Cities Leading through Energy Analysis and Planning project.

the toolkit allows cities to attribute changes between two inventories to the impacts of policies and programs along with external drivers, such as growth or decline in the level of economic activity and changes to weather. This analysis will support policy-makers to better communicate about their progress and refine their policy approaches.

Download the Drivers of Change Analysis HERE. Download the toolkit HERE. (Source: US DOE EERE,Aug., 2021) Contact: US DOE EERE, www.energy.gov/eere; ICLEI-USA, www.icleiusa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHGs,  Greenhouse Gas,  Climate Change,  

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,  

American Coalition for Ethanol
Date: 2021-08-16
In a letter to President Joe Biden, the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) called for the President to set the maximum statutory volumes under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in the 2021 and 2022 Renewable Volume Obligation rule-making and to pursue all options to ensure uninterrupted market access for E15. The letter notes these actions are the quickest way to reduce GHG emissions from the U.S. transportation fleet in the near term and support net-negative biofuel production that can help achieve a fully decarbonized transportation future.

"We recognize your goal is to electrify the vehicle fleet in the future, but the inconvenient truth is there are hundreds of millions more people driving vehicles capable of using low-carbon substitutes to petroleum such as E15 and E85 today than any other alternative. Since this reality will exist well into the future, increasing the use of ethanol today will immediately reduce GHGs while the production of electric vehicles (EVs) ramps up" the letter notes.

"In the near-term, a properly implemented RFS and year-round availability of E15 will meaningfully reduce the carbon intensity of the U.S. transportation sector by capitalizing on the existing vehicle fleet's ability to use lower-carbon biofuels. In the mid-term, the pending RVO decision will act as a harbinger for companies on how much to rely on your commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050 when making investment decisions," the letter added.

"If the Administration is not willing to ensure the RFS will call for 15 billion gallons of low-carbon ethanol already being produced to replace petroleum at the pump, legitimate questions will be asked about the merits of non-binding executive orders setting national goals for less deployable decarbonization technologies," the letter concluded.

Download the full ACE letter HERE . (Source: American Coalition for Ethanol, Website PR,11 Aug., 2021) Contact: American Coalition for Ethanol, Brian Jennings, CEO, www.ethanol.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Coalition for Ethanol,  RFS,  E15,  Ethanol,  Renewable Fuel,  Biofuel,  

Carrier
Date: 2021-08-13
The Palm Beach Gardens, Florida-headquartered air conditioning, commercial refrigeration and transport refrigeration product manufacturer reports it has reduced its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in absolute terms by over 78,000 tonnes compared to its 2015 baseline, according to its just released Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Report .

In the UK, Carrier estimates its introduction of more energy efficient technologies and lower GWP refrigerants has led to the avoidance of 68 million tonnes of GHG emissions in 2020.

Carrier has pledged, where technically feasible, to employ “natural” or very low GWP refrigerant solutions and to deliver the right refrigerant for each application, depending on specific country or regional requirements. It says it will also continue to evaluate options to expand its offering of ultra-low GWP solutions of below 30. (Source: Carrier, PR, Website, Cooling Post, 11 Aug 2021; Contact: Carrier Corp., 561-365-2000, www.corporate.carrier.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carrier,  GHG,  

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 ,  

Isreal Carbon Emissions
Date: 2021-08-02
In Tel Aviv, the Israel Environmental Protection Ministry has submitted updated targets for cuts to Israel's global warming gas (GHG) emissions to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The targets commit the state to slashing economy-wide net global warming gas (GHG) emissions by 27 pct by 2030 and 85 pct by 2050, relative to 2015. In quantitative terms, this means cutting emissions from 79 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2015 to 58 MtCO2e by 2030 and to 12 MtCO2e by 2050.

In terms of Israel's submission, the gases comprise carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6).

Specifically, electric power generation GHG emissions will be cut by 30 pct by 2030, compared with 2015, and by 85 pct in 2050. Industry will be expected to cut emissions 30 pct or more by 2030, compared with 2015. In transportation, all new municipal buses will have to be electric by 2026 and total emission increases from transportation will be capped at 3.3 pct in 2030 compared with 2015. By 2050, they will be at least 96 pct less than those of 2015. Furthermore, all cars weighing up to 3.5 tons that are registered in 2030 will have to emit no more than 5 pct of the average global warming gases emitted by similar-sized vehicles registered in 2020. (Source: Israel Environmental Protection Ministry, PR, Times of Israel, 1 Aug., 2021) Contact: Israel Environmental Protection Ministry, www.gov.il/en/departments/ministry_of_environmental_protection/govil-landing-pag

More Low-Carbon Energy News Isreal Carbon Emissions,  UNFCCC,  

Renewable Fuels Association
Date: 2021-08-02
In a recent letter to U.S. President Joe Biden, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) wrote: "As members of the RFA we share your vision for decarbonizing the transportation fuels sector and applaud your commitment to addressing climate change. We support your goals of achieving a 50 pct reduction in U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 and reaching net zero emissions economy-wide by 2050.

"Low-carbon renewable fuels like ethanol are already helping our nation confront climate change by significantly reducing GHG emissions from the transportation sector. In fact, since 2008, the use of ethanol and other renewable fuels in the U.S. prevented nearly 1 billion metric tons of GHG from entering the atmosphere.

"Today's ethanol already reduces GHG emissions by 52 pct, on average, when compared directly to gasoline. Furthermore, many of us (RFA members) are already producing advanced and cellulosic ethanol that is certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as providing a 65-75 pct GHG reduction compared to gasoline. But given the urgency of the climate crisis and the need to reasonably decarbonize, the RFA are committing today to the pursuit of the following carbon performance goals:

By 2030, ensure that ethanol reduces GHG emissions by at least 70 pct, on average, when compared directly to gasoline. This equates to a 33 pct reduction in ethanol's average carbon footprint from 45 grams CO2-equivalent per megajoule (g/MJ) today to about 30 g/MJ by 2030.

By 2050, ensure that ethanol achieves net zero lifecycle GHG emissions, on average. As ethanol producers continue to adopt carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) and other low- and no-carbon technologies between 2030 and 2050, U.S. ethanol can achieve net carbon neutrality, on average, by mid-century or even sooner.

"Ethanol's carbon footprint continues to shrink rapidly, as new technology and innovation have improved the efficiency of the entire production process. In fact, a recent study by DOE scientists found that ethanol's carbon footprint shrunk by 23 percent between 2005 and 2019. While we are proud of these advances in efficiency and sustainability, many opportunities exist to deliver even greater GHG reductions in the near term," the letter noted. (Source: RFA, PR, 27 July, 2021) Contact: RFA, www.ethanolrfa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuels Association news,  GHG Emissions news,  CCUS news,  Ethanol Low-Carbon Fuel news,  

Norfolk Southern Railway
Date: 2021-07-30
Atlanta-headquartered Norfolk Southern Railway reports it plans to cut scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity by 43 pct from a 2019 base year by 2034. The rail carrier's target has been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Locomotive fuel accounts for over 90 pct of the railroad's carbon emissions. Norfolk Southern set a fuel-efficiency goal as part of its 2015 strategic plan, targeting an 8.6 pct improvement by 2020. The company exceeded that goal with a 9.4 pct improvement, which resulted in savings of more than 130 million gallons of diesel fuel and avoidance of approximately 1.3 million metric tonnes of emissions, according to the release. Norfolk Southern is making significant efforts to lower GHG emissions across the company, including:

$500 million of green bonds were recently issued by the company to fund eligible green projects. Norfolk Southern was the first Class I railroad in North America to launch green bond financing.

More than 700 locomotives were retired by the company in 2020, targeting older, less fuel-efficient models. Through precision scheduled railroading, the company has achieved operating efficiencies which allow for the movement of more freight with fewer locomotives, reducing fuel burn.

A company locomotive modernisation programme is converting older DC traction models to more reliable and efficient AC units, and quipping locomotives with smart energy management technology for increased fuel efficiency

An innovative public-private partnership program to recycle older locomotives into low-emission 'Eco' models is reducing emissions in urban communities on our rail network and enabling them to meet their Clean Air Act obligations.

An initiative to replace diesel-powered overhead cranes with hybrid and fully electric cranes at company intermodal facilities is projected to reduce emissions at those facilities by approximately 75 pct. (Source: Norfolk Southern Railway, PR, July, 2021) Contact{ Norfolk Southern Railway, www.nscorp.com/content/nscorp/en/contact-us.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHG,  Carbon Emissions,  SBTi,  

Canadian Pacific Railway , Science Based Targets
Date: 2021-07-26
Calgary, Alberta-headquartered Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. has published its first comprehensive Climate Strategy outlining the railroad giant's plan to drive innovative climate action and a measured response to emerging climate-related risks impacting the rail sector. The Climate Strategy outlines CP's objectives: establishing a clear understanding of climate-related risk and opportunities ; reducing the 140 year-old company's carbon footprint; adapting operations to the physical risks of climate change; integrating climate factors across the business and engaging with stakeholders on climate action.

To guide implementation of the Climate Strategy, CP has established two science-based emissions reduction targets that address 100 pct of CP's Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, and more than half of Scope 3 emissions. CP commits to reducing Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions intensity of its locomotives -- the company's largest source of emissions -- by in excess of 38 pct by 2030. CP also commits to reducing absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions from non-locomotive operations by in excess of 27 pct t by 2030. These targets are based on the most current methodology available to the transportation sector through the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

CP has already taken significant steps to reduce GHG emissions, including installing a large solar farm at its Calgary corporate campus capable of generating more power than consumed annually by the main headquarters building. CP has also initiated a pioneering hydrogen locomotive program, and is currently building a hydrogen-powered locomotive using fuel cells and batteries to power the locomotives' electric traction motors. This initiative is important to generate critical industry knowledge and experience that will inform future development while supporting CP's emissions reduction targets.

CP participates in leading sustainability disclosure frameworks including CDP, Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Aligned with these frameworks, CP will continue to disclose annual emissions, management practices and ongoing energy efficiency initiatives, and commencing in 2022 will report to its shareholders on its progress on the Climate Strategy.

In other railroad emissions and climate news, Norfolk, Virginia-based railroad Norfolk Southern Corp. has announced its science-based target to achieve a 42 pct reduction in scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 2034 from a 2019 base year.

Norfolk Southern's emissions reduction target has been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate change. Validation from the SBTi -- a joint initiative of CDP, UN Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, and World Wide Fund for Nature -- confirms the company's target is consistent with reductions required to keep warming to well-below 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels. (Source: Canadian Pacific Railway, PR, 26 July, 2021) Contact: CP, Keith Creel, Pres., CEO, 888-333-6370, www.cpr.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Science Based Targets,  Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  CP Rail,  

Israel
Date: 2021-07-26
In Jerusalem, the Israel Environmental Protection Ministry has announced the country would reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 85 pct from 2015 levels by 2050, as part of an international push to limit global warming. The government approved the 2050 target and set an interim target of 2030 to reduce emissions by 27 pct from levels in 2015, the year when global climate accords were agreed in Paris.

Israel's national targets include a 96 pct cut in transportation related carbon, an 85 pct reduction from the electric power generation sector and a 92 pct cut in the municipal waste sector. (Source: Israel Environmental Protection Ministry, PR, Reuters, 25 July, 2021) Contact: Israel Environmental Protection Ministry , www.gov.il/en/departments/ministry_of_environmental_protection/govil-landing-page

More Low-Carbon Energy News Israel,  Carbon Enissions,  

American Airlines
Date: 2021-07-19
Dallas-headquartered American Airlines reports it is committed to set a science-based target for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net-zero emissions by 2050, and align its path with the global imperative of limiting temperature rise to well below 2 degree Celsius, and bring additional accountability to its approach to addressing climate change.

American is the first airline in North America to begin the validation process with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). In doing so, American is committing to develop a 2035 emissions reduction target that will be reviewed by the SBTi to confirm its consistency with the latest climate science.

By committing to SBTi, the air carrier becomes a signatory to the Business Ambition for 1.5 degrees C campaign and joins the UN-backed Race To Zero to rally support for a zero-carbon economy from businesses, cities, investors and other non-state actors. (Source: American Airlines, PR, AJOT, 16 July, 2021)Contact: American Airlines, www.headquarterscontacts.com/american-airlines; Science Based Targets, www.sciencebasedtargets.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Science Based Targets initiative ,  Carbon Emissions,  GHG,  

Province of British Columbia
Date: 2021-07-16
In Victoria, the Canadian Province of British Columbia is reporting amendments to its Greenhouse Gas Reduction Regulation (GGRR) to encourage and increase the production and use of renewable nature gas (RNG) as well as green and waste hydrogen while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The amendments support the Province's upcoming hydrogen strategy, which will include ambitious goals to increase the production and use of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen to help achieve climate targets under CleanBC.

The GGRR allows utilities like FortisBC Energy Inc. (FortisBC) and Pacific Northern Gas Ltd. to make time-limited investments, within spending and volumetric caps, to stimulate the domestic market for renewable gases and reduce GHG emissions. It also allows utilities to increase the amount of RNG, green and waste hydrogen, and other renewable energy they can acquire and make available to their customers by:

increasing the amount of renewable gas utilities can acquire and supply from 5 to 15 pct of their total annual supply of natural gas;

broadening the methods by which utilities can obtain hydrogen, RNG and other renewable gases to include producing it or upgrading it themselves for injection into the pipeline, paying a third party to produce it or upgrade it for pipeline injection, or purchasing hydrogen, synthesis gas or lignin to displace the use of natural gas at customers' facilities;

allowing the current price cap of $30 per gigajoule that utilities can pay to acquire any of these fuels to increase with inflation; and

enabling utilities to acquire and supply green and waste hydrogen, synthesis gas and lignin.

The changes to the GGRR will help to achieve CleanBC objectives, which commit to a 15 pct renewable gas content in the natural gas system by 2030.

Download the B.C. Greenhouse Gas Reduction (Clean Energy) Regulation, HERE. (Source: Province of British Columbia, Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, PR, July, 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Province of British Columbia news,  RNG news,  Hydrogen news,  GHG news,  

Opal Fuels
Date: 2021-07-14
Opal Fuels LLC, a producer and distributor of renewable natural gas (RNG) for heavy-duty truck fleets, reports it has contracted with Contract Transport Services to sell 15 million gasoline gallon equivalents (GGE) of RNG and construct a fueling station and related infrastructure at CTS's facility in Green Bay, Wisconsin. TruStar Energy, an Opal Fuels company, will manage the construction and operation of the station.

CTS, which owns 103 CNG-powered trucks, has partnered with the U.S. EPA as a SmartWay affiliate to help reduce GHG emissions and improve fuel efficiency. As a result of its sustainability efforts, CTS won Wisconsin Clean Cities' 2019 Forward Fleet Award and was named a Top Green Fleet of 2019 by Heavy Duty Trucking. (Source: Opal Fuels LLC, PR July, 2021) Contact: Opal Fuels, www.opalfuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Opal Fuels,  RNG,  

Dana Incorporated
Date: 2021-07-12
Maumee, Ohio-headquartered Dana Incorporated reports it will accelerate plans to reduce Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 50 pct by 2030 and, to that end, has inked a commitment letter with the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi) to help set its future emission targets. Dana is aiming to cut more than 300,000 tpy of carbon dioxide emissions.

SBTi is a partnership between the Carbon Disclosure Project, the United Nations Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, and the World Wildlife Fund. It focuses on partnering with companies to help guide emission reduction initiatives using science-based goals.

Dana Incorporated is an American supplier of axles, driveshafts, transmissions, and electrodynamic, thermal, sealing, and digital equipment for conventional, hybrid, and electric-powered vehicles. The company's products and services are aimed at the light vehicle, commercial vehicle, and off-highway equipment markets. (Source: Dana Incorporated, PR, 12 July, 2021) . Contact: DANA Corp, Doug Reedberg, Chief Compliance and Sustainability Officer, www.dana.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions news,  Carbon Disclosure Project news,  

Neste
Date: 2021-07-07
Helsinki-headquartered Neste Oyi reports its Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ is the first renewable diesel (RD) brand to receive TOP TIER™ Diesel Fuel certification for its high quality and powerful performance.

The TOP TIER standard was introduced in 2017 and has been endorsed by General Motors, Volkswagen, Detroit Diesel, Navistar, and Ford and other engine manufactureres.

Neste MY Renewable Diesel is available in the U.S. at more than 1,400 delivery points across California and Oregon as well as in Europe in Belgium, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

According to Neste, "Simply by switching to Neste MY Renewable Diesel, fleet operators can immediately transform any diesel powered vehicle or equipment to release no new GHG emissions from the tailpipe with no extra costs and no modifications to existing engines." (Source: Neste Oy, Website PR, 6 July, 2021) Contact: TOP TIER, www.toptiergas.com/why_top_tier; Neste Corp., Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste MY Renewable,  Neste,  

Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
Date: 2021-06-28
At Lake Tahoe Calif./Nev., the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) has released a comprehensive report on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory for the Tahoe Region and an evaluation of the environmental standards that measure Lake Tahoe's ecological health. Both show substantial improvements, according to the agency.

The Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report notes the Tahoe Region surpassed the initial target of 15 pct GHG emission reduction by 2020. From 2005 to 2018, overall GHG emissions in Tahoe declined 38.7 pct although emissions from 2015 to 2018 increased by 4 pct, primarily from the transportation sector. Over the full inventory period, natural gas became the top source of GHG emissions in the Tahoe Basin, largely due to the heat inefficiency of older homes and buildings.

Strategies to reach carbon neutrality in the region also support Lake Tahoe Regional Plan goals for mixed-use, environmentally beneficial redevelopment in town centers. (Source: Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, PR, South Tahoe Now, 26 June, 2021) Contact: Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Joanne S. Marchetta, Exec. Dir., (775) 588-4547, (775) 588-4527 fax, trpa@trpa.org, www.trpa.gov

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

Date: 2021-06-23
In Maryland, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has released the county's Climate Action Plan that aims to reduce GHG emissions by 80 pct by 2027 and by 100 pct by 2035 compared to 2005 levels. The plan, which outlines 86 climate actions, is "one of the most ambitious climate plans in the nation for a local government", according to the release.

The main elements of the Climate Action Plan include:

Reduce Emissions in the Energy, Buildings and Transportation sectors -- The plan recommends actions that include increasing the use of and investment in clean, reliable and affordable energy; implementing code requirements related to energy efficiency, solar installations and net-zero standards and building energy performance standards for existing buildings; expanding public transit service, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and a shared micro-mobility network; and supporting community-wide adoption of electric vehicles.

Center Racial Equity and Social Justice -- The plan considers the racial equity and social justice implications of each climate action through the identification of equity-enhancing measures. The plan also assesses impacts on communities most vulnerable to climate hazards.

Address Residual Emissions and Carbon Sequestration -- The plan identifies nature-based carbon sequestration actions including retaining, managing and expanding forests, wetlands, grasslands and urban tree canopy. It also seeks to increase carbon in soils through improved agricultural practices.

Reduce Climate Risk -- This will be achieved through actions that enhance the resilience of the community and infrastructure assets, including repairing and upgrading stormwater drainage and management systems; updating green streetscape and green infrastructure standards; hardening emergency shelters and installing resilience hubs; and updating floodplain maps.

Identify Ways to Pay for Climate Action -- Implementing the actions in the plan calls for commitment from the public and private sectors while leveraging local, State and Federal government resources. It will be critical to mitigate the cost impacts to low-and moderate-income residents in particular to ensure that the most vulnerable residents are not adversely impacted.

Enhance Climate Governance -- This will be accomplished through actions that institutionalize climate change considerations within Montgomery County Government processes and decision making; measure and report on progress; and foster creativity, collaboration and innovation to implement climate solutions.

Engage the Community as Partners in Climate Action -- Residents will be involved in the implementation of the plan through a climate communications coalition; a Community Justice Academy in which community ambassadors work with neighbors and the County to co-create community-based solutions; and enhanced partnerships with municipalities. The plan increases opportunities for climate change education in the public school system and calls for a statewide coalition of local governments and youth groups focused on advancing ambitious State climate policy.

Download the plan details HERE. (Source: Montgomery County, PR June, 2021) Contact: Montgomery County Maryland, Marc Elrich, Climate Action Plan, County Executive , www.montgomerycountymd.gov

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

NASA
Date: 2021-06-21
According to a new study from the NASA Langley Research Center Airborne Science Program, aircraft using cleaner-burning sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) can produce between 50 pct and 70 pct fewer ice crystal contrails at cruising altitude than those using conventional aviation jet fuels.

Contrails produce increases in temperature, further leading to climate change over time. Richard Moore, NASA's scientists, says that researchers know contrail formation from jet exhaust has more impact on climate than carbon dioxide emissions. The new study shows that a chance to use SAF that can help make immediate changes that could help save the planet.

Download the NASA-DLR Study Finds Sustainable Aviation Fuel Can Reduce Contrails study HERE. (Source: NASA, June, 2021) Contact: NASA, Richard Moore, (757) 864-6043, Mobile -- (757) 759-1951, www.airbornescience.nasa.gov/person/Richard_Moore

More Low-Carbon Energy News NASA,  GHG Emissions,  SAF,  

Greenfield Global
Date: 2021-06-18
In Quebec, the Montreal Port Authority is reporting a cooperation agreement with Ontario-based ethanol producer Greenfield Global to develop green hydrogen for an indirect shore supply of electrical power for the marine industry. The agreement is intended to identify and implement innovative green energy solutions, of which green hydrogen, ethanol and methanol are at the forefront.

The agreement aims to address commercial shipping's greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) which account for roughly 3 pct of global GHG emissions.

Greenfield is the largest ethanol producer in Canada and owns and operates five ethanol distilleries, four specialty chemical manufacturing and packaging plants and three next-generation biofuel and renewable energy R&D centers in the United States, Canada and Ireland. (Source: Port of Montreal, Website, PR, H2 View, 14 June, 2021) Contact: Montreal Port Authority, Martin Imbleau, Pres., CEO, 514 283-7011, www.port-montreal.com; Greenfield Global, Howard Field, CEO, (613) 698-0116, howard.field@greenfield.com, www.greenfield.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Greenfield Global,  Green Hydrogen,  Ethanol,  

Neste Oyi
Date: 2021-06-16
In Helsinki, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel producer Neste Oyi reports it is committed to using 100 pct renewable electricity in its global production operations and to become carbon neutral by 2035.

To that end, Neste has committed to approximately 40 pct of the electricity used at its Porvoo refinery will be renewable wind power in 2025 and will increase the share of renewable electricity with Guarantees of Origin, based on existing renewable electricity generation capacity. Guarantees of Origin will help increase the share of renewable electricity to 100 pct of Neste's electricity needs by 2023.

Neste aims to reduce the indirect greenhouse gas emissions of electricity purchases at its Porvoo refinery by approximately 50,000 tpy of CO2 equivalent. With all the wind power agreements combined, Neste will reduce indirect GHG emissions of its electricity purchases at its various Finnish production sites by approximately 120,000 tpy CO2 equivalent -- roughly the annual carbon footprint of more than 19,000 average EU citizens. (Source: Neste Oyi, PR, June, 2021) Contact: Neste Oy, Carl Nyberg, Exec. VP, +358 50 458 5076, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste Oyi,  Renewable Energy,  Carbon Neutral,  

Canadian Natural Resources
Date: 2021-06-09
On the Canadian prairies, Calgary-based Canadian Natural Resources, Cenovus Energy, Imperial, MEG Energy and Suncor Energy are touting the recent launch of the Oil Sands Pathways to Net Zero initiative. The Initiative will work collectively with the Canadian federal and Alberta governments is to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from oil sands operations by 2050 to help Canada meet its climate goals, including its Paris Agreement commitments and 2050 net zero aspirations.

Pathways vision is anchored by a major Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) trunkline connected to a carbon sequestration hub to enable multi-sector tie-in projects for expanded emissions reductions. The initiative pathways to address GHG emissions includes:

A core Alberta infrastructure corridor linking oil sands facilities in the Fort McMurray and Cold Lake regions to a carbon sequestration hub near Cold Lake via a CO2 trunkline. The trunkline would also be available to other industries in the region interested in capturing and sequestering CO2. There is also potential to link the infrastructure corridor to the Edmonton region.

Deploying existing and emerging GHG reduction technologies at oil sands operations along the corridor, including CCUS technology, clean hydrogen, process improvements, energy efficiency, fuel switching and electrification.

Evaluating, piloting and accelerating application of potential emerging emissions-reducing technologies including direct air capture, next-generation recovery technologies and small modular nuclear reactors.

In addition to collaborating and investing together with industry, it is essential for governments to develop enabling policies, fiscal programs and regulations to provide certainty for this type of long-term, large-scale investment. This includes dependable access to carbon sequestration rights, emissions reduction credits (RECs) and ongoing investment tax credits. (Source: Canadian Natural Resources, PR, Website, 9 June, 2021) Contact: Canadian Natural Resources, Tim McKay, Pres., (403) 517-6700, Facsimile (403) 517-7350 , www.cnrl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Oil Sand,  Carbon Emissions,  

U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2021-06-07
In the Sunshine State, the state capital City of Tallahassee (pop. 195,000) reports it has been awarded U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED Gold for Cities certification.

To earn City LEED Gold certification, the City conducted an in-depth, cross-departmental data analysis and evaluation related to its strategic sustainability and resilience efforts. Following the receipt of a partial grant from USGBC in 2019, the city established a team to begin coordinating the certification of the City through the global LEED for Cities program. The following initiatives helped the City earn certification:

Integrative Planning -- The City received the maximum number of points available for its comprehensive planning and leadership.

Natural Systems and Ecology -- The City was awarded the maximum number of points available for its ecosystem assessment, green spaces availability, natural resource conservation and resilience planning.

Transportation and Land Use -- The City was awarded the maximum number of points available for its historical site preservation policies. It also received points for its transportation performance.

Water Performance -- The City earned LEED points for its annual water consumption per capita data and progressive water management policies.

Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions -- The City was awarded the maximum number of points available for energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions management, which included an assessment of Tallahassee’s per capita and total GHG emissions. The City also earned points for its renewable energy generation and declining GHG intensity (GHG relation to GDP). Lastly, the City received the maximum points allowed for its net metering practices.

Innovation -- The City received the maximum number of points available for its innovative approaches to advancing sustainability and resiliency.

Regional Priority -- The City received regional priority credits for membership and participation in the Capital Area Sustainability Compact, its disaster preparation efforts, initiatives to reduce housing insecurity, as well as the City's significant efforts to protect Wakulla Springs. (Source: City of Tallahassee, June, 2021) Contact: City of Tallahassee, www.talgov.com; US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News U.S. Green Building Council,  LEED for Cities,  

Diesel Technology Forum
Date: 2021-05-26
The not-for-profit Diesel Technology Forum is reporting newly released data from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) shows that low carbon transportation fuels powering internal combustion engines deliver the Golden State's biggest reduction in transportation-related sources of GHG emissions.

Biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel are the biggest carbon cutting technologies from the transportation sector, edging out ethanol and beating the benefits of electrified cars, trucks and buses by 3:1.

According to Diesel Technology Forum Exec, Dir. Allen Schaeffer, "Cumulatively, over the period of 2011-2020, California's consumption of biodiesel and renewable diesel fuels accounted for 43 pct (over 32 million tons) of all greenhouse gas eliminated from the transportation sector, while battery-electric transportation options accounted for only 13 percent (10 million tons)." (Source: Diesel Technology Forum, 18 May, 2021) Contact: Diesel Technology Forum, dtf@dieselforum.org, www.dieselforum.org; CARB, Richard Perry, CEO, Melanie Turner, Information Officer, (916) 322-2990, melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov, www.arb.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Diesel Technology Forum,  Biodiel,  GHG,  California Air Resources Board,  Renewable Diesel ,  

USDA
Date: 2021-05-26
In Washingto on January 27, 2021, Pres, Joe Biden signed Executive Order 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad, directing all Federal agencies to coordinate in a Government-wide approach to combat the climate crisis.

In compliance with the Order and recognizing the role agriculture and forestry will play in climate change mitigation and resilience, the USDA submitted the agency's recommendations for a climate-smart agriculture and forestry (CSAF) strategy covering CSAF practices that decrease wildfire risk fueled by climate change, CSAF as a source sustainable bioproducts and fuels, and conservation actions that provide measurable carbon reductions and sequestration.

The USDA report notes: "The adoption of on-farm biogas capture technologies and the production of biobased products can provide producers with new income streams while also reducing GHG emissions and improving water quality. Opportunities to generate income from these technologies include the generation of renewable electricity and the production of biobased products from manure, renewable natural gas (RNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). USDA should support producers as they enter these new markets and consider innovative finance mechanisms to provide upfront capital for biogas technologies and encourage the connection of multiple small operations to provide economical renewable energy production."

Download the USDA Climate-Smart Agriculture, Forestry Strategy; 90 Day Progress Report HERE. (Source: USDA, May, 2021) Contact: USDA, www.usda.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA,  Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  Bioenergy,  Biofuel,  

CNG Fuels
Date: 2021-05-24
In the UK, CNG Fuels Ltd reports it will open the world's largest public access Department for Transport's Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) approved biomethane refueling station for heavy transport trucks in Avonmouth, near Bristol, before the year end.

When fully operational, the facility will have the capacity to refuel as many as 80 heavy trucks per hour from 14 high-speed dispensers and joins six existing refueling stations already operational across the UK.

According to CNG Fuels, renewable biomethane is the lowest carbon, most cost-effective alternative to diesel for heavy trucks. It is also roughly one-third less expensive than diesel and cuts GHG emissions by nearly 90 pct. (Source: CNG Fuels Ltd. , PR, May, 2021) Contact: CNG Fuels, Philip Fjeld, CEO, www.cngfuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CNG Fuels ,  Biomethane,  RNG,  

Environmental Defense Fund
Date: 2021-05-24
On behalf ofthe Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and through its development of a framework to estimate life cycle emissions of delivered natural gas, Washington, D.C.-based environmental consulting firm M.J. Bradley & Associates has developed the Gas Company Climate Planning Tool to help natural gas utilities and other stakeholders quantify the impacts of alternative supply- and demand-side scenarios.

This Excel-based tool can provide analytical support to users by evaluating: company-specific life cycle GHG emissions associated with delivered gas; GHG emissions across business-as-usual (BAU) and user-defined scenarios; and impacts and changes in emissions, social cost of carbon savings, and gas demand resulting from gas company upgrades and application of supply- and demand-side strategies.

The tool is pre-populated with data publicly reported by U.S. natural gas utilities and allows users to define analysis parameters and apply custom scenarios. Results are updated in real-time as inputs, assumptions, and strategies are changed.

Download Gas Company Climate Planning Tool details HERE. (Source: M.J. Bradley & Assoc., PR, May, 2021) Contact: M.J. Bradley & Assoc., Brian Jones, Snr. VP, 978-405-1275, bjones@mjbradley.com, www.mjbradley.com; Environmental Defense Fund, www.edf.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Environmental Defense Fund news,  GHGs news,  Climate Change news,  Carbon Emissions news,  

White House
Date: 2021-05-24
In Washington, the Biden administration has announced new federal initiatives and investments in building energy efficiency and electrification in a move to achieve a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035 and put the United States on an irreversible path to a net-zero economy by 2050. The White House initiative includes:

Launching the low-carbon buildings pilot -- Through the Department of Energy's (DOE) Better Buildings Initiative and in coordination with Housing and Urban Development, DOE is announcing the first 55 commercial, industrial, and multifamily organizations to participate in the Low-Carbon Buildings Pilot program, which will share lessons learned for real world pathways to low and no emission buildings.

In partnership with the Advanced Water Heating Initiative, DOE is launching a new initiative to increase market adoption of high-efficiency, grid-connected Heat Pump Water Heaters which are two to four times more efficient than conventional water heaters in residential and commercial buildings.

New and expanded EPA partnership programs -- EPA is launching new residential and commercial sector partnerships to accelerate efficiency and electrification retrofits with a focus on under served residential households through the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade program, accelerate building electrification through an advanced ENERGY STAR certification for new residential buildings, and recognize commercial buildings through a new zero-carbon commercial building certification. It will also launch a new Greenhouse Gas tool linked to its Portfolio Manager tool.

New national research initiative focused on innovating clean and efficient building heating and cooling systems -- DOE will launch the Initiative for Better Energy, Emissions, and Equity (E3 Initiative), putting $10M toward accelerating the research and adoption of heat pump technologies. As part of the E3 Initiative, DOE will launch a Cold Climate Heat Pump Technology Challenge to accelerate the development of high performing cold climate heat pump technologies. Another important component will be new research efforts partnering National Laboratories and manufacturers to accelerate the development of lower to no global warming potential refrigerants that can be quickly commercialized.

National grid-interactive efficient buildings roadmap -- DOE is releasing the Grid-interactive Efficient Buildings (GEB) Roadmap with 14 recommendations to better integrate buildings with solar and wind power through smart operation of electricity demand and storage. Smart buildings allow consumers to have more choice over building operations and provide the ability to manage energy loads and reduce energy bills. Over the next two decades, national adoption of GEBs would create savings of $100 -- $200 billion across the electric power system and could decrease emissions in the power sector by 6 pct per year.

New Federal Building Performance Standards -- Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is launching an inter-agency Federal sustainability effort with General Serivices Administration (GSA), DOE, and EPA to develop the first-ever building performance standards (BPS) for the federal government. The BPS will establish metrics, targets, and tracking methods to reach federal carbon emissions goals. The performance standards will identify progressive performance milestones as well as the resources that agencies need to meet them.

Blueprint to integrate GEB Technologies into Energy Savings Contracts -- GSA is releasing a blueprint to integrate grid-interactive technologies into federal building renovation and improvement projects, particularly using energy savings, and utility energy savings contracts. The blueprint puts practical guidance and tools into the hands of building operators to help them integrate GEB technologies into current and future performance contracts.

New ENERGY STAR standards to advance heat pump technology and fast chargers for electric vehicles -- If all heat pumps, central air conditioners, and electric water heaters sold in the U.S. met the new ENERGY STAR standards, the energy cost savings would grow to $11 billion a year, and 255 billion ppy of GHG emissions would be avoided. These new standards will increase American households' and businesses' access to affordable heating, cooling, water heating, and transportation options.

These actions -- involving the General Services Administration (GSA), Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) -- focus on key levers available within the administration's existing authority now, without waiting for the anticipated infrastructure package, the release notes. (Source: The White House, PR, 17 May, 2021)

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

National Renewable Energy Laboratory,nternational Marine Organization
Date: 2021-05-21
NREL reports it is investigating the use of marine biofuels to reduce sulfur and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping in an effort to meet the International Marine Organization (IMO) allowed amount of sulfur oxides emissions from ships.

The IMO's newest upper limit, which took effect at the start of 2020, reduced the sulfur content of ships' fuel oil to 0.5 pct from 3.5 pct targeting at least a 50 pct reduction in GHG emissions from international shipping by 2050, relative to 2008 levels. To reach the IMO goal, ship owners can either install sulfur scrubbers to reduce emissions, or they can adopt a different, low-sulfur fuel. Both options carry an additional cost.

The NREL-directed research provides a starting point for establishing the feasibility of ships using biofuels, including the economics of marine "drop-in" biofuels weighed against the cost of burning heavy fuel oil (HFO), which presently accounts for roughly 75 pct of the fuel used.

The research concluded that, if shipping had no competition, the U.S. has sufficient bio-feedstocks for producing substantial amounts of marine biofuels to displace fossil fuels. With ships using 400 million metric tpy of fuel, a blend of 5 pt biofuels translates to about 5 billion gallons.

The research was funded by the U.S. DOE Bioenergy Technologies Office and by the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration.

Download Biofuel Options for Marine Applications: Techno-Economic and Life-Cycle Analyses report details HERE. (Source: NREL, May, 2021) Contact: NREL, Eric Tan, Snr. Research Engineer, www.nrel.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Renewable Energy Laboratory,  Marine Biofuel,  Maritime Biofuel,  nternational Marine Organization,  

Climate Change
Date: 2021-05-21
Farmers are among the most-qualified people to help address greenhouse gases (GHGs) and related climate issues, according to How U.S. Agriculture Can Be Part of the Climate Change Solution, a new report commissioned by the Farm Journal Foundation.

While U.S. agriculture contributes about 10 pct of the total greenhouse gas emissions of the entire national economy, farmers could greatly reduce those emissions if they were provided with the right government incentives, according to the report. Expanding existing government programs could enable farmers to become more sustainable – helping them improve their soil health, increase livestock efficiency, convert animal waste into clean energy, and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. Farm businesses run on tight margins and are affected by volatile commodity markets, so farmers need incentives – such as tax breaks, cost share, technical assistance, or favorable loan terms – in order for sustainable investments to make financial sense.

The report makes the following recommendations: increase funding for federal programs that help farmers reduce GHG emissions; increase funding for agricultural research that helps farmers adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change; reintroduce and pass the Growing Climate Solutions Act; and make it more affordable for farmers to adopt more radical -- and highly impactful --interventions to improve their energy efficiency.

Download the full report HERE.

The report was co-authored by John Reilly of MIT's Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change and Stephanie Mercier, senior policy adviser at Farm Journal Foundation. (Source: Farm Journal, May, 2021) Contact: Farm Journal Foundation, www.farmjournalfoundation.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  

Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Date: 2021-05-19
In Ottawa, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) is reporting a $14.1-million investment through FCM's Green Municipal Fund (GMF) to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) and drive cost savings in communities in Prince Edward Island (PEI) and Nova Scotia (NS).

The $14.1 million investment supports PACE Maritimes (Property Assessed Clean Energy), a multi-provincial program that will operate in Stratford and Charlottetown, P.E.I., and Wolfville, N.S. The program will finance residential energy efficiency, renewable energy and energy storage projects across the three municipalities. Of the total, $175,000 is earmarked for City of Charlottetown to study the feasibility of energy retrofits to cut energy consumption in 22 municipal buildings

CEF helps communities of all sizes implement innovative local financing programs that directly help homeowners cut GHG emissions and improve energy efficiency. The Canadian Government has invested $1.65 billion in GMF since its inception 20 years ago. (Source: Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Natural Resources Canada, PR, 19 May, 2021)Contact: Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Green Municipal Fund, T. 613-241-5221, F. 613-241-7440, www.fcm.ca/en/programs/green-municipal-fund, www.fcm.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Property Assessed Clean Energy .PACE news,  PACE-C news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Energy STorage news,  

BrainBox
Date: 2021-05-10
Montreal-headquartered autonomous building technology specialist BrainBox AI reports it has partnered with GWL Realty Advisors to pilot its artificial intelligence (AI) technology in a GWL managed office tower and multi residential property in downtown Toronto.

BrainBox AI uses deep learning, cloud-based computing, algorithms, and a proprietary process to support a 24/7 self-operating HVAC system that requires minimal human intervention and enables maximum energy efficiency.

In the pilot project, the office tower saw a preliminary reduction in energy consumption of 29 pct on HVAC, with an expected reduction of its carbon emissions by 218 metric tpy. Accounting for 45 pct of buildings' energy consumption, HVAC systems are one of commercial real estat's leading contributors to energy usage and GHG emissions. The multi-residential building saw a preliminary reduction in energy consumption on HVAC of 25 pct avoiding 180 metric tpy of carbon emissions.

BrainBox AI was created in 2017 with the goal of redefining building automation through artificial intelligence to be at the forefront of a green building revolution. BrainBox AI's technology is currently impacting over 100,000,000 sq. ft. of real estate across 16 countries. (Source: BrainBox, PR, May, 2021) Contact: BrainBox, 888 585 2630, www.brainboxai.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BrainBox,  Energy Efficiency,  

Hexion Inc
Date: 2021-05-10
Columbus, Ohio-headquartered resins and coatings producer Hexion Inc. reports that in order to help address climate change, it has committed to reduce absolute carbon emissions by 20 pct by 2030, compared to 2017 levels. The company's commitments includes Scope 2 and 3 emissions -- direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions -- from operations and consumed energy.

To reach its goal, Hexion has determined its most important areas of focus, which included formalizing the following:

Minimizing climate change impact -- Hexion will strive to protect against climate change throughout its business lifecycle by efficiently using natural resources, optimizing existing processes and enhancing products and technologies through continuous innovation.

Developing innovative sustainable products -- Hexion is committed that by 2030, all new products will incorporate sustainable attributes.

Reducing spills and releases -- Hexion has committed to reduce spill mass and releases by 80 pct by 2025.

Maintaining product stewardship -- Hexion remains committed to implementing the Responsible Care Product Safety Code and will continue to be transparent and communicate to key stakeholders regarding its stewardship programs such as risk reviews and reduction of substances of concern.

As further validation of its commitment to more sustainable operations, Hexion received its first ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year award and has been recognized for numerous successes in waste reduction and energy efficiency throughout the company since 2014. In that time, Hexion has reduced global energy intensity by 28 pct, executed more than 250 sustainability projects, and produced water and energy savings of approximately $14 million, including $2 million in 2020 alone. (Source: Hexion, PR, 10 May., 2021) Contact: Hexion, Craig Rogers, CEO, www.hexion.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hexion Inc.,  GHGs,  Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  

China, Climate Change
Date: 2021-04-19
China and the United States have issued a joint statement addressing the climate crisis after talks between China Special Envoy for Climate Change Xie Zhenhua and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry from Thursday to Friday in Shanghai. The following is the full text of the statement:

China and the United States are committed to cooperating with each other and with other countries to tackle the climate crisis, which must be addressed with the seriousness and urgency that it demands. This includes both enhancing their respective actions and cooperating in multilateral processes, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. Both countries recall their historic contribution to the development, adoption, signature, and entry into force of the Paris Agreement through their leadership and collaboration.

Moving forward, China and the United States are firmly committed to working together and with other Parties to strengthen implementation of the Paris Agreement. The two sides recall the Agreement's aim in accordance with Article 2 to hold the global average temperature increase to well below 2 degrees C and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees C. In that regard, they are committed to pursuing such efforts, including by taking enhanced climate actions that raise ambition in the 2020s in the context of the Paris Agreement with the aim of keeping the above temperature limit within reach and cooperating to identify and address related challenges and opportunities.

Both countries look forward to the US-hosted Leaders Summit on Climate on April 22/23. They share the Summit's goal of raising global climate ambition on mitigation, adaptation, and support on the road to COP 26 in Glasgow.

China and the United States will take other actions in the short term to further contribute to addressing the climate crisis: both countries intend to develop by COP 26 in Glasgow their respective long-term strategies aimed at carbon neutrality/net zero GHG emissions; both countries intend to take appropriate actions to maximize international investment and finance in support of the transition from carbon-intensive fossil fuel based energy to green, low-carbon and renewable energy in developing countries; each county will implement the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbon production and consumption reflected in the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

China and the United States will continue to discuss, both on the road to COP 26 and beyond, concrete actions in the 2020s to reduce emissions aimed at keeping the Paris Agreement-aligned temperature limit within reach, including: policies, measures, and technologies to decarbonize industry and power, including through circular economy, energy storage and grid reliability, CCUS, and green hydrogen; increased deployment of renewable energy; green and climate resilient agriculture; energy efficient buildings; green, low-carbon transportation; cooperation on addressing emissions of methane and other non-CO2 greenhouse gases; cooperation on addressing emissions from international civil aviation and maritime activities; and; other near-term policies and measures, including with respect to reducing emissions from coal, oil, and gas.

The two sides will cooperate to promote a successful COP 26 in Glasgow, aiming to complete the implementation arrangements for the Paris Agreement (e.g., under Article 6 and Article 13) and to significantly advance global climate ambition on mitigation, adaptation, and support. They will further cooperate to promote a successful COP 15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Kunming, noting the importance of the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, including its relevance to climate mitigation and adaptation. (Source: China.org Xinhua, 17 Apr., 2021)

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

United Airlines
Date: 2021-04-16
In Chicago, United Airlines reports it and a group of more than a dozen other companies have committed to purchase some 3.4 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) that would eliminate 31,000 metric tonnes of GHG emissions this year under its newly launched Eco-Skies Alliance program.

United reports it will be the airline industry's largest single purchaser of SAF. Eco-Skies Alliance inaugural participants, which represent a range of business sectors, include Siemens, Nike, Deloitte, and Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

Download Eco-Skies Alliance details HERE. (Source: United Airlines, AINonline, 13 Apr., 2021) Contact: United Airlines, Scott Kirby, CEO, www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/contact/headquarters.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News SAF,  Aviation Biofuel,  Unitded Airlines ,  

Novozymes
Date: 2021-04-16
"As the world's largest industrial biotechnology company, with bio-innovation operations from Copenhagen in Denmark to Milwaukee in the U.S., Novozymes is proud to support the call for at least halving emissions by 2030.

"We can harness the renewable potential of millions of acres of cropland, sequester GHG emissions, boost yields and increase the production of renewable energy made from farm crops, such as corn or soybeans. With smart policy and smart science, the Biden Administration can raise the bar for nations around the world, but to do that, it is vital that biofuels are core in the U.S. strategy.

At Novozymes, we specialize in tapping into the power of nature to deliver advanced biology that does everything from boosting crop yields without added fertilizer, to improving laundry detergents to cut energy and water waste. Our (Novozymes) innovation helps biofuel producers get more energy out of every harvest. These technologies have already helped the U.S. replace about 10 pct of liquid fuels with renewable alternatives.

"The vital importance of these bio-based solutions to address the climate crisis is already recognized, but ideas must be turned into action. Incentives that would allow the entire agricultural supply chain to invest in the future and a fuel market that is open to higher-biofuels blends -- such as E15 -- that allow drivers to save money, while reducing consumption of fossil fuel, are essential. These opportunities would not only drive green economic growth in the U.S., but could also offer a roadmap for other countries." -- Brian Brazeau, North America Novozymes, Apr., 2021)Contact: Novozymes, Brian Brazeau, VP Bioenergy, 646-671-3897, www.novozymes.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Novozymes,  Biofuel,  Climate Change,  

National Grid
Date: 2021-04-16
"There is a long road ahead to slow climate change, but we are optimistic. We support the Biden Administration in their dedication to tackling climate and now we need to raise the bar. We urge the U.S. to adopt the ambitious target of cutting GHG emissions by at least 50 pct below 2005 levels by 2030. We care deeply about the future of this planet and the well-being of the millions of people we serve." -- Badar Khan, President, Badar Khan, President, National Grid, US, Apr., 2021) Contact: National Grid US, Badar Khan, President, www.nationalgrid.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Grid,  Climate Change,  

We Mean Business Cooalition
Date: 2021-04-16
On Tuesday, in an open letter organized by the We Mean Business coalition to President Biden, 310 businesses and investors with a footprint in the U.S. signed their support for the Biden administration's commitment to climate action and for setting a federal climate target to reduce emissions.

An excerpt from the letter states, "To restore the standing of the U.S. as a global leader, we need to address the climate crisis at the pace and scale it demands. Specifically, the U.S. must adopt an emissions reduction target that will place the country on a credible pathway to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. We, therefore, call on you to adopt the ambitious and attainable target of cutting GHG emissions by at least 50 pct below 2005 levels by 2030."

The letter demonstrates the U.S. business and investor communities' strong support for a highly ambitious 2030 emissions reduction target, or Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) pursuant to the Paris Agreement, in pursuit of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Latest climate modeling shows that at least halving emissions by 2030 is achievable, and provides strong economic benefits. The Biden administration is expected to announce its NDC prior to the Leaders Summit on Climate.

Business signatories of the letter collectively represent over $3 trillion in annual revenue and employ nearly 6 million U.S. workers across all 50 states. They range in size from small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large multinational corporations, and represent a number of industries. Investor signatories collectively represent more than $1 trillion in assets under management and include CalSTRS, the New York State Comptroller, the New York City Comptroller and the California State Controller's Office, among others.

"The U.S. business community is committed to doing its part to reduce emissions because it is good for the economy and helps us build back better. Companies want to work with the Biden administration toward a better future for all," said Maria Mendiluce, CEO of the We Mean Business coalition. "I applaud businesses and investors for raising their voices in support of at least halving U.S. emissions by 2030. This is what the climate crisis requires, and will strengthen the country's competitiveness and create more good jobs"

"A strong national emissions reduction target is just what we need to catalyze a net-zero emissions future and build back a more equitable and inclusive economy," said Anne Kelly, vice president of government relations at Ceres. "Businesses of all sizes recognize that reducing emissions is vital to keeping the U.S. competitive, and protecting the health and well-being of people and the planet. By setting a strong target, the Biden administration can ensure the U.S. is ready to return to its role as a global climate leader and spur further action from the private sector."

We Mean Business is a global coalition of nonprofit organizations working with the world's most influential businesses to take action on climate change. The coalition brings together seven organizations: BSR, CDP, Ceres, The B Team, The Climate Group, The Prince of Wales's Corporate Leaders Group and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. Together we catalyze business action to drive policy ambition and accelerate the transition to a zero-carbon economy.

Business signatories to the letter include Apple; Ben & Jerry's Homemade, Inc.; BT Americas; Boston Consulting Group; Burton; Coca-Cola; Danone North America; DSM North America; Edison International; Facebook; GAP Inc.; General Electric; Google; H&M; Hewlett Packard Enterprise; HP Inc.; IKEA Retail U.S.; Johnson & Johnson; Kellogg Company; LafargeHolcim; Levi Strauss & Co.; Lyft, Inc.; MARS; Mastercard; McDonald's Corporation; Microsoft; National Grid; New Belgium Brewing; Nestle; Nike; Novozymes North America; Orsted North America; Ralph Lauren Corp.; Schneider Electric; Siemens; Solvay; Starbucks; Tiffany & Co; Unilever; Verizon; VF Corporation; and Walmart, among others. (Source: We Mean Business Coalition, PR, Apr., 2021) Contact: We Mean Business Coalition, Maria Mendiluce, CEO, Kristen King, 904-608-1745, kristen@wemeanbusinesscoalition.org, www.wemeanbusinesscoalition.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  

Airlines for America
Date: 2021-04-02
Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization representing the leading U.S. airlines, announced the commitment of its member carriers to work across the aviation industry and with government leaders in a positive partnership to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. As part of that commitment, A4A carriers pledged to work with the government and other stakeholders toward a rapid expansion of the production and deployment of commercially viable sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to make 2 billion gallons of SAF available to U.S. aircraft operators in 2030.

A4A and its member carriers are committed to working in partnership across the commercial aviation sector and beyond to help advance and deploy commercially viable technology, operations, infrastructure and SAF to meet these ambitious climate goals. At the same time, it is imperative that the U.S. federal, state and local governments implement supportive policies and programs that enable innovation, scale-up, cost-competitiveness and deployment in each of these areas, while avoiding the implementation of policies that would limit the aviation industry's ability to invest in emissions-reducing measures.

Many A4A members have set net-zero emissions goals and are already investing in SAF, but the aviation industry requires a similar urgent commitment from policymakers, fuel producers and others in the feedstock and fuel supply chain to achieve meaningful scalability.

U.S. airlines greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions currently accounts for less than two percent of the nation's GHG emissions inventory. U.S. airlines improved their fuel efficiency by more than 135 pct between 1978 and year-end 2019, saving over five billion metric tons of CO2 -- equivalent to taking more than 27 million cars off the road on average in each of those years. Additionally, A4A has helped launch the nascent SAF industry and committed to CORSIA to help facilitate achieving carbon-neutral growth in international aviation beginning in 2020, according to the organization's website. (Source: Airlines for America, PR, Website, 30 Mar., 2021) Contact: Airlines for America, Nicholas E. Calio, Pres., CEO, www.airlines.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Airlines for America ,  Aviation Emissions,  SAF ,  

UK BEIS
Date: 2021-03-26
In London, the UK Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has released the North Sea Transition Deal, a landmark climate transition agreement to support the offshore oil and gas industry work force and supply chain during the switch to renewable energy and a net-zero emissions economy.

The Deal includes an agreement for early reductions in production-site GHG emissions (not including emissions from product utilization) totaling 10 pctt by 2025, 25 pct by 2027 and 50 pct by 2030, with a goal of reaching net zero by 2050 -- a 15 million tonne reduction in CO2 emissions over the next ten years.

Additionally, the deal commits to delivery of investments of up to $22 billion in new energy technologies, including hydrogen production and carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS). The government has pledged to spend $1.4 billion on CCUS projects by 2025, and expects to provide additional support for the development of CO2 pipelines, storage sites and wells. The deal also commits to a voluntary industry target of 50 pct local, UK-made content for all new energy technology projects by 2030, with the same set-aside for oil and gas decommissioning activity. (Source: UK BEIS, PR, 24 Mar., 2021) Contact: BEIS, +44 0 20 7215 5000, enquiries@beis.gov.uk, www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-business-energy-and-industrial-strategy

More Low-Carbon Energy News UK BEIS,  CCS,  Carbon Emissions,  Low-Carbon Energy,  

U.S. Grains Council
Date: 2021-03-24
"As fuel demand begins its recovery around the world, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) is taking steps to ensure ethanol will continue to expand as a part of policy solutions that address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and offer a comprehensive portfolio of other benefits including air quality improvement and economic value.

"USGC's ethanol team and consultants offered an update this week to the Council's Ethanol Advisory Team the member-driven group of grain producers and agribusiness representatives that identify opportunities, set priorities and chart the course of the Council every year, giving them background on ethanol's role in the Paris Agreement -- of which the US is again a member -- explaining what it means to have the U.S. rejoin and presenting an outlook for ethanol as it relates to the Paris Agreement as whole.

"As many countries have listed their transportation sectors and named biofuels or ethanol specifically to contribute to overall emissions reductions outlined in the Paris Agreement, the case can be made for U.S. ethanol to help meet these countries' global initiatives.

"Even with policies in place some countries are not meeting the intended goals or mandates, leaving room for further GHG emissions reductions. India for example has recently announced its national plan to blend 20 pct ethanol nationwide by 2025. In the most recent market year, it blended just above a 5 pct rate from a nationwide average standpoint. Filling in that blend gap will be critical to fully realize these benefits. Identifying these gaps and demonstrating the benefit and how to fill them is an ongoing role the Council provides with its global partners.

"For instance, new research from Environmental Health and Engineering Inc. demonstrates that U.S. corn-based ethanol cuts GHG emissions by 46 pct providing benefits nationally, but also globally, as ethanol trade expands. In terms of emissions reductions, this means the U.S. saved more than 4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2020 from ethanol exports alone and could provide other countries a pathway to meeting their own Paris Agreement commitments.

“Elevating the contribution that ethanol has already made to abate emissions globally is critical, and these reductions are expected to continue as further investment in abatement technologies take place and policies expand around the globe." (Source: U.S. Grains Council, PR, Website, Mar., 2021) Contact: US Grains Council, Brian D. Healy, Director Global Ethanol Market Dev, Bryan Jernigan, bjernigan@grains.org, www.grains.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News U.S. Grains Council,  Paris Climate Agreement,  Ethanol ,  

Argonne National Laboratory
Date: 2021-03-10
The Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) Systems Assessment Center reports its evaluation of the well-to-wheel (WTW) greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of Fischer-Tropsch (FT) fuels produced via various electrolytic H2 pathways and CO2 sources -- found that using nuclear or solar/wind electricity, the stand-alone FT fuel production (Naphtha, jet, diesel) from various plant designs can reduce WTW GHG emissions by 90–108 pct relative to petroleum fuels.

When integrating the FT fuel production process with corn ethanol production, the WTW GHG emissions of FT fuels are 57--65 pct lower compared to petroleum counterparts.

The report modeled the FT fuel synthesis process using Aspen Plus, which showed that 45 pct of the carbon in CO2 can be fixed in the FT fuel, with a fuel production energy efficiency of 58 pct. (Source: ANL. PR, Mar., 2021)Contact: ANL, 630-252-2000, www.anl.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Fischer-Tropsch,  Argonne National Laboratory,  

Wells Fargo
Date: 2021-03-10
San Francisco-based banking giant Wells Fargo -- the country's 6th largest bank with $1.9 trillion in assets -- reports it is setting a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions -- including its financed emissions -- by 2050.

To that end, Wells Fargo will: measure and disclose financed emissions for select carbon-intensive portfolios; set interim emission reduction targets; deploy more capital to finance climate innovation; and continue to work with its clients on their own emissions reductions efforts.

The bank will also launch an Institute for Sustainable Finance to manage the deployment of $500 billion of financing to sustainable businesses and projects by 2030, as well as support science-based research on low-carbon solutions and advocate for policies that enable client transitions. (Source: Wells Fargo & Company, PR, 8 Mar., 2021) Contact: Wells Fargo, www.wellsfargo.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Wells Fargo,  Carbon Emissions,  Net-Zero Emissions,  

Zemo Partnership
Date: 2021-03-08
In London, the soon to be launched Zemo Partnership Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme has found the introduction of E10 petrol-biofuel blend and the widespread use of high blend renewable fuels (HBRF) could reduce truck emissions by 46 million tonnes over the next decade.

The HBRF study covers renewable fuels including biodiesel, hydrotreated vegetable oil and biomethane and identifies the opportunities and barriers to adoption and the GHG-saving opportunities available for sustainable, renewable fuel adoption by heavy duty vehicles.

The study notes that with a market average of 30 pct HBRF used in place of diesel and natural gas by 2030, the sector could save an additional 46 million tonnes in GHG emissions over the next decade.

The Zemo Partnership Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme is an initiative designed and managed by Zemo Partnership that aims to give fleet operators independent assurance of purchasing sustainable, low carbon fuels approved under the RTFO, and customer supply chain specific GHG emission performance data. The scheme is open to all UK suppliers of renewable fuels including those that supply blends of renewable fuels. Companies are required to apply to Zemo Partnership to become an approved Renewable Fuel Supplier and demonstrate compliance with the scheme performance criteria and undergo an annual compliance check. This entails independent verification of company procedures, processes and renewable fuel production data by an auditor, according to the Zemo website.

Once approved renewable fuel supplier will be able to issue their customers with 'Renewable Fuel Declarations' every three months for batches of sustainable low carbon fuels sold. The declaration will identify the carbon intensity and GHG emissions savings specific to the renewable fuel supply chain as well as information on feedstocks, the Zemo website notes. (Source: Zemo Partnership, PR, Website, 8 Mar., 2021) Contact: Zemo Partnership, Gloria Esposito, Sustainability Head, +44 (0)20 7304 6880, hello@zemo.org.uk, www.zemo.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuel,  E10,  Biofuel Blend,  

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Date: 2021-03-01
In the nation's capitol, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (National Academies) reports it is forming a committee to study the current methods for life cycle analyses (LCA) of low-carbon transportation fuels in the U.S.

Low carbon fuel standards, such as the Federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and the California Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), are major US programs for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation fuels. These standards rely on life cycle assessment (LCA) as a tool to estimate fuel GHG emissions.

The National Academies aims to develop a reliable and coherent approach for applying LCA to low-carbon fuel standards via a methodological assessment to identify the general characteristics and capabilities of GHG emissions estimation methods commonly needed across various types of low-carbon fuels programs applied at a national level. The committee will include the following considerations:

Direct GHG emissions over the entire lifecycle of a given transportation fuel, including feedstock generation or extraction, feedstock conversion to a finished fuel or blendstock, distribution, storage, delivery, and use of the fuel in vehicles.

Potentially significant indirect GHG emissions, such as those associated with indirect land use changes attributed to biofuels production.

Key assumptions, input parameters, and data quality and quantity for application of lifecycle GHG emission models for different regions of the U.S.

Needs for additional data, methods for data collection, standardized inputs for lifecycle analyses, and model improvements.

The National Academies is seeking approximately 14 members with expertise in the fields of: life cycle analysis (LCA); fuel production and use (including fossil fuels, biofuels, and electricity); economics; greenhouse gas (GHG) emission modeling; uncertainty analysis; terrestrial ecosystems; and environmental policy decision-making.

Details HERE (Source: National Academies. PR, 1 Mar., 2021) Contact: National Academiers, 202-334-2000, www.nationalacademies.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Low-Carbon Fuel,  Biofuel,  RFS,  GHGs,  

Maryland Energy Administration
Date: 2021-02-26
In Baltimore, the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) is touting its Clean Fuels Incentive Program's (CFIP) support for both the purchase of fleet alternative fuel vehicles and funding to expand the state's alternative fueling infrastructure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions via proven technology. The CFIP is designed to permanently "green" the state's transportation profile and improve air quality by reducing fossil fuels consumption.

The fiscal year 2021 (FY21) CFIP awards of $1.3M will fund an array of clean fuel projects across the state, including one of the largest electric school bus deployments in the country, electric vehile charging stations and emission-reduced propane autogas vehicles.

The MEA notes the transportation sector is responsible for the majority of Maryland's greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Maryland Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act Plan. The law requires the State to reduce GHG emissions 25 pct from a 2006 baseline by 2020, in a way that ensures a positive impact on Maryland's economy, protects existing manufacturing jobs and creates new jobs in the State. (Source: Maryland Energy Administration, PR, Feb., 2021)Contact: Maryland Energy Administration, Mary Beth Tung, Exec. Dir., Kaymie Owen, CMP 443-694-3651, kaymie.owen@maryland.gov, www.Energy.Maryland.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alternative Fuel,  Transportation Emissions,  GHGs Electric Vehicle,  

CARB
Date: 2021-02-26
In Sacramento, the California State Auditor's assessment of transportation programs intended to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has determined the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has not collected or evaluated sufficient data to allow it to determine how well or whether its existing incentive programs are performing and meeting their goal of cutting GHG emissions.

CARB's existing incentive programs pay consumers in exchange for purchasing low- and zero-emission vehicles to reduce GHG emissions beyond what CARB's regulations already require.

According to the auditor's report, CARB has done little to measure the extent to which its incentive programs lead to emissions reductions by causing individuals and businesses to acquire clean vehicles that they otherwise would not have purchased.

The auditor's report notes CARB has overstated the GHG emissions reductions its incentive programs have achieved, although it is unclear by how much. Additionally, CARB has not consistently collected or analyzed data to determine whether some of its programs provide the socioeconomic benefits that CARB has identified for those programs, such as maximizing participants' economic opportunities.

Because these programs may cost significantly more than other incentive programs from the perspective of reducing GHG emissions, CARB must do more to measure and demonstrate specific benefits to disadvantaged communities and low-income communities and households that the programs intend to serve, the auditor's report adds. (Source: Office of California State Auditor, Website, 23 Feb., 2021) Contact: California State Auditor, Elaine M. Howle, CPA, (916) 445-0255, www.auditor.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News CARB,  California Air Resources Board,  Transporation Emissions,  CO2,  Carbon Emissions,  

American Petroleum Institute
Date: 2021-02-17
The American Petroleum Institute (API) is reporting receipt of $100 million funding under the US DOE's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy programme. The program aims to identify and develop innovative technologies to further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and tackle climate change.

According to API, over the past decade, the oil and gas industry has provided low-cost natural gas, while reducing CO2 emissions in the electric power sector and addressing methane emissions. Methane emissions have declined by nearly 70 pct between 2011 and 2019 in five of the largest US oil and gas producing regions, according to the EPA's new Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program data.

API notes its members are already investing in direct air carbon capture, carbon capture use astorage, CCS, decarbonisation infrastructure such as CO2 pipelines, sustainable and efficient fuels, and lower cost, low-carbon hydrogen. (Source: API. PR, Website, 16 Feb., 2021) Contact: API, Mike Sommers, CEO, (202) 682-8114, www.api.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News American Petroleum Institute,  GHG,  Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  Methane,  

Enviva Biomass, Finite Carbon
Date: 2021-02-17
Bethesda, Maryland-headquartered ENVIVA, a leading global renewable energy company specializing in sustainable wood bioenergy, has announced its goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its operations by 2030.

This commitment to climate action reinforces ENVIVA's core purpose to displace coal, grow more trees, and fight climate change. It sets forth an ambitious plan for eliminating GHG emissions from its operations in keeping with international climate goals, including the Paris Agreement's goal to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degree C. To that end, ENVIVA will:

Reduce, eliminate or offset all of its direct emissions. Enviva will immediately work to minimize the emissions from fossil fuels used directly in its operations -- its Scope 1 emissions.

Source 100 pct renewable energy by 2030with an interim target of at least 50 pct by 2025.

Drive innovative improvements in its supply chain and proactively engage with partners and other key stakeholders to adopt clean-energy solutions.

Transparently report progress. Enviva will track and publish its progress in reducing its emissions annually and intends to disclose climate-relevant data and risks through CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project) by the end of 2022.

ENVIVA's sustainably sourced wood is used to manufacture wood pellets as a drop-in alternative to fossil fuels. ENVIVA exports its sustainable wood pellets primarily to the U.K., Europe, the Caribbean and Japan, enabling its customers to reduce their carbon emissions by more than 85 pct on a lifecycle basis, helping them reach their greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets with renewable energy, according to the ENVIVA release. (Source: ENVIVA, PR, 17 Feb., 2021) Contact: ENVIVA Partners, LP, (301) 657-5560, www.envivabiomass.com; Carbon Disclosure Project, CDP, Lance Pierce, Pres. North America, (212) 378 2086, info.northamerica@cdp.net, www.cdp.net

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Disclosure Project,  ENVIVA,  Enviva,  Net-Zero Emissions,  Wood Pellet,  Woody Biomass,