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,  

Bank of America
Date: 2021-02-15
With assets of $2,031,940,000, the Bank of America -- the country' second largest bank by assets -- reports it is aiming to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in its financing activities, operations and supply chain by 2050.

To that end, Bank of America will need to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from its own operations as well as engage with its borrowers in order to "help accelerate their own transitions to net zero." The bank notes it plans to establish interim science-based emissions targets for "high-emitting portfolios, including energy and power."

In the announcement, Bank of America laid out initial steps to cut its operational emissions by 2030, which include purchasing 100 pct zero carbon electricity and reducing energy use and potable water use by 55 pct, among other initiatives. The bank is also set to disclose its financed emissions by 2023 through the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials. (Source: Bank of America, PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: Bank of America, www.bankofamerica.com; Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials, www.carbonaccountingfinancials.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Greenhouse Gas,  GHGs,  Bank of America,  Carbon Emissions,  Net-Zero Emissions,  

Ameresco
Date: 2021-02-12
In the Bay State, Framingham-headquartered energy efficiency and renewable energy specialist Ameresco, Inc. reports it has contracted to replace Wellesley College's Central Utility Plant to support the College's effort to increase energy efficiency, cut operating costs and reduce campus greenhouse gas emissions 37 pct by 2026, as compared to the school's 2010 baseline.

New energy efficient equipment upgrades and installations at the plant will include 4MW of power generation, paralleling switchgear, 800 ton efficient electric chillers, a 600HP firetube pony boiler, a 5-cell cooling tower and a 4,000 ton thermal energy storage system. The plant's electric generators will operate primarily in "peak shaving" mode for increased cost savings and decreased demand on the local utility during peak times of the year. Construction on the Central Utility Plant began in December of 2020 and is slated for commissioning in May 2021. (Source: Ameresco, Inc., Website PR, 10 Feb., 2021) Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2264, www.ameresco.com, [www.ameresco.com/energy-efficiency; Wellesley Ccllege, www.wellesley.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  

Growth Energy
Date: 2021-02-12
In Washington, in testimony at the EPA virtual hearing on the proposal to extend the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance deadlines for the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs), Growth Energy's Senior VP of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley called on the agency to reject calls to delay RFS compliance and instead take immediate steps to restore integrity to the RFS and restore lost biofuel demand.

"The intent of the RFS is to blend more biofuels into our nation's transportation fuel supply. Period. It is not meant to have oil companies use questionable legal tactics to avoid blending biofuels and then demanding that the agency further delay compliance," Bliley said.

Bliley also reminded EPA about the benefits of biofuels as America works toward its clean climate goals, stating that "With recent research showing that greenhouse gas emissions from corn ethanol are 46 pct lower than gasoline, it makes no sense why EPA should continue to exempt oil companies and further delay them from complying with their blending obligations."

EPA's proposal would extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2019 compliance year to November 30, 2021 and extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2020 compliance year to January 31, 2022. (Source: Growth Energy, PR, Website, 9 Feb., 2021) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, CEO, Chris Bliley, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy,  RFS,  

Carbon Leadership Forum
Date: 2021-02-10
Lever for Change is reporting the five finalist teams that will advance to the next stage of the 2030 Climate Challenge, a $10 million award launched in 2020 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. by 2030.

The Challenge, sponsored by an anonymous donor, will fund proven, data-driven solutions tackling greenhouse gas emissions in the buildings, industry, and/or transportation sectors in communities across the country. The finalists include:

Carbon Leadership Forum / Seattle, Washington -- Building with Biomass: Using Buildings to Sequester Carbon at Gigaton-Scale carbonleadershipforum.org

RMI / Boulder, Colorado -- Scale Zero: Healthy, Zero-Emission, Affordable Housing for All. www.rmi.org

Solar United Neighbors / Washington, District of Columbia -- First Statewide Virtual Power Plant: Equitable Transition to Clean Energy. www.solarunitedneighbors.org

World Resources Institute / Washington, District of Columbia -- Turning Point: Driving Climate Action through Southeast Transportation Electrification, www.wri.org

World Wildlife Fund / Washington, District of Columbia -- Decarbonizing U.S. Industry with Renewable Thermal Energy. www.worldwildlife.org

Finalist's project details are HERE. (Source: 2030 Climate Challenge, Website PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: 2030 Climate Challenge, www.2030climatechallenge.org Lever for Change, www.leverforchange.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Leadership Forum,  ,  

Coal
Date: 2021-02-08
In Montana, U.S. District Judge Susan Watters has ruled the former Trump administration Dept. of Interior (DOI) put economic benefits of the 2-square-mile expansion of Spring Creek coal operation unreasonably ahead of the the "social cost of carbon" -- a dollar value on every ton of greenhouse gasses emitted -- from burning coal. The Spring Creek mine produced over 9 million tonnes of coal in 2020.

The court ruled "Federal agencies cannot ignore more accurate scientific information when it is available and The agencies) failed to fully consider the social cost of carbon on every ton of greenhouse gasses emitted." In 2017, then President Trump ordered agencies not to use social cost of carbon estimates developed at the end of the Obama administration.

On his first day in office, Biden ordered government agencies to account for damages caused by increased greenhouse gas emissions. "An accurate social cost is essential for agencies to accurately determine the social benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions when conducting cost-benefit analyses," President Biden's order noted. (Source: Rocket Miner, Various Media, AP 6 Jan., 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Coal,  Carbon Emissions,  Social Cost of Coal,  

SSE,Scottish and Southern Electricity
Date: 2021-02-03
In the UK, London-headquartered utility Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution reports it is the first UK Distribution Network Operator to set science-based carbon emissions reduction targets.

Responsible for developing the electricity distribution networks vital to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, SSEN Distribution has signed a commitment letter to set science-based reduction targets for its own operations, which will see the network operator strive to cut emissions further and faster.

A science-based target is a target for greenhouse gas emissions reductions that is set based on the level of reduction that science says is required to prevent the worst impacts of climate change in line with the Paris Agreement -- to limit global warming to well-below 2 degree C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degree C. The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute and the World Wild Fund for Nature. (Source: SSE plc, Website, Jan., 2021) Contact: SSE, Shirley Robertson, ED2 Sustainability Strategy Lead, www.sse.com; Science Based Targets, www.sciencebasedtargets.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Science Based Targets,  Scottish and Southern Electricity ,  SSE,  Net-Zero,  Carbon Emissions,  

Paris Climate Accord
Date: 2021-02-03
A court in Paris has ruled that France's government is guilty of climate inaction in a ground-breaking legal case launched in March, 2019, by a group of NGOs with the support of two million French citizens, for failing to meet the country's commitments to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

The ruling makes it possible for direct victims of climate change in France to seek compensation from the French government. This puts increased pressure on lawmakers to focus on limiting global warming and mitigating environmental damage. Though the ruling is largely symbolic, it sets a precedent. The French state was ordered to pay compensation of €1 to show "moral prejudice" -- a common occurrence in France.

France's commitment to curb global warming comes from the Paris Agreement, which was signed at COP21 in 2015. This international accord holds countries responsible for limiting global warming to less than 2 degrees more than pre-industrial levels. (Source: euronews, Feb., 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Paris Climate Accord,  Climate Change,  

International Maritime Organization,Alfa Laval
Date: 2021-01-29
Lund, Sweden-headquartered fluids handling specialist Alfa Laval reports it has joined the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping advisory board.

The collaboration will focus on accelerating the development of low- and zero-carbon technologies and fuels through joint projects and activities such as the recently announced "SOFC4Maritime" green fuels program.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is targeting a 50 pct reduction of vessel-related greenhouse gas emissions amd overall decarbonization od the martime shipping industry by by 2050. (Source: Alfa Laval, PR, VPO, 27 Jan., 2021) Contact: Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center, Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO, info@zerocarbonshipping.com, www.zerocarbonshipping.com; Alfa Laval, +46 46 36 65 10, www.alfalaval.com; IMO, Stefan Micallef, Director of Marine Environment Division, +44 (0) 20 7735 7611, www.imo.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News International Maritime Organization,  Marine Biofuel,  Alfa Laval,  

Alfa Laval, IMO
Date: 2021-01-29
Lund, Sweden-headquartered fluid handling specialist Alfa Laval reports it has joined the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping advisory board to accelerate the development of low- and zero carbon technologies for the marine industry.

The collaboration will focus on accelerating the development of low- and zero carbon technologies through joint projects and activities such as the recently announced "SOFC4Maritime" initiative which targets solutions for green marine fuels.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) targets a 50 pct reduction of vessel-related greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. (Source: Alfa Laval, PR, 27 Jan., 2021) Contact: Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center, Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO, info@zerocarbonshipping.com, www.zerocarbonshipping.com; Alfa Laval, +46 46 36 65 10, www.alfalaval.com: IMO, Stefan Micallef, Director of Marine Environment Division, +44 (0) 20 7735 7611, www.imo.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News IMO,  Alfa Lava,  Zero-Carbon,  Maritime Emissions,  Shipping Emissions,  CO2,  

Enviva Biomass
Date: 2021-01-25

Together renewable fuels will further displace coal and natural gas -- As countries take aggressive action on climate change to decarbonize their respective economies by 2050, the direction is clear -- all carbon-neutral and carbon-negative renewable fuels will need to work together if we want to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century. As the global energy demand for alternative fuels increase, 2021 will mark a turning point for the industry as wind, solar, geothermal, woody biomass, hydrogen, and lithium-ion battery energy providers (among others) make a collective and coordinated effort to combat the global climate crisis.

The aftermath of COVID-19 will push economies into a renewable future -- The COVID-19 pandemic has forever changed how societies, businesses, and governments view the world. As various industries saw a decline in the demand for products and/or services throughout the pandemic, the energy industry witnessed the opposite. Energy production and distribution remained essential regardless of the pandemic.

Throughout the pandemic we've seen an increased global interest in reducing carbon emissions. Looking ahead, we expect renewable fuels will continue to play a crucial role in power generation for decades to come. For this reason, we don't foresee a job loss, rather a job transfer -- or perhaps a job boom - in renewables in 2021. For those currently working in fossil fuels, this shift will present a great opportunity to transition skills as the energy sector continues to evolve into a clean energy future.

Europe will continue to be the "Poster Child" for renewable energy implementation, but there will be some regulatory uncertainty. -- Delivering Europe's long-term ambition to become the first climate neutral continent by 2050 requires an extensive set of urgent measures to scale up action. At the very least, the world-leading sustainability criteria established by the Renewable Energy Directive II (REDII) will need to be fully implemented by all member states if Europe plans to meet their 2030 and 2050 emission reduction goals. At best, member states will need to further amend the directive if they wish to succeed in cutting carbon emissions by 55 pct in the next decade from 1990 levels.

Bioenergy is the largest renewable energy source in the EU and will be critical to increased deployment of wind and solar -- The use of bioenergy has more than doubled since 2000 as a result of its end-use as heat, transportation, and electricity. In fact, biomass is the only renewable fuel on the market that is readily available today and can replace fossil fuels for heat generation. In heavy industries such as steel, aluminum and cement, sustainably sourced wood-based biomass offers a carbon-neutral fuel replacement for coal and gas-fired furnaces (and combined heat and power plants). As a dependable and dispatchable renewable fuel, sustainably-sourced biomass represents a prime solution to complement the intermittency of wind and solar (among other renewables) that will reduce carbon emissions by more than 85% on a lifecycle basis.

Biomass to assist the development and deployment of a hydrogen economy -- Looking ahead to more future-oriented solutions, such as the development of the hydrogen economy, biomass is projected to play an important role. The most obvious is to use biomass directly to create hydrogen through gasification and thereby avoid carbon emissions that are associated with natural gas. Even further down the road, when surplus solar and wind could potentially be used to create hydrogen at scale, there will be an exciting opportunity to produce aviation and other fuels with carbon capture of biomass that could result in even fewer net greenhouse gas emissions. Likewise, as decarbonization efforts in the steel and cement industry rapidly increase, they too will look to bioenergy solutions for support.

BECCS on the short rise -- Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is one of the very few options on the table that can remove carbon from the atmosphere. Once matured, BECCS could mark the beginning of a new era for low-carbon fuel applications that will enable us to meet and/or exceed international net zero targets while still enjoying air travel and heavy goods transport, which is difficult and very expensive to decarbonize. We expect 2021 will be the year that we see true progress in climate change mitigation, as a result of new initiatives/policies, new innovations, and new collaborations that are already taking shape.

ENVIVA Holdings, LP is the world's largest producer of industrial wood pellets, a renewable and sustainable energy source used to generate electricity and heat. Through its subsidiaries, ENVIVA owns and operates wood pellet processing plants and deep-water export terminals in the Southeastern United States and exports pellets primarily to power plants in the UK, Europe and Japan that previously were fueled by coal, enabling them to reduce their lifetime carbon footprint by up to 85 pct. We make our pellets using sustainable practices that protect Southern forests. ENVIVA Holdings, LP conducts its activities primarily through two entities: ENVIVA Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership (NYSE: EVA), and ENVIVA Development Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned private company. (Source: Enviva Holdings, LP, Jan., 2021) Contact: ENVIVA Holdings, LP., www.envivabiomass.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enviv news,  Woody Biomass Wood Pellet news,  CCS news,  Renewable Fuel news,  

ENVIVA
Date: 2021-01-25
The following has been submitted by the world's largest industrial wood pellets producer, ENVIVA Holdings LP:

Bioenergy is the largest renewable energy source in the EU and will be critical to increased deployment of wind and solar -- The use of bioenergy has more than doubled since 2000 as a result of its end-use as heat, transportation, and electricity. In fact, biomass is the only renewable fuel on the market that is readily available today and can replace fossil fuels for heat generation.

In heavy industries such as steel, aluminum, and cement -- sustainably sourced wood-based biomass offers a carbon-neutral fuel replacement for coal and gas-fired furnaces (and combined heat and power plants). As a dependable and dispatchable renewable fuel, sustainably-sourced biomass represents a prime solution to complement the intermittency of wind and solar (among other renewables) that will reduce carbon emissions by more than 85 pct on a lifecycle basis.

Biomass to assist the development and deployment of a hydrogen economy -- Looking ahead to more future-oriented solutions, such as the development of the hydrogen economy, biomass is projected to play an important role. The most obvious is to use biomass directly to create hydrogen through gasification and thereby avoid carbon emissions that are associated with natural gas. Even further down the road, when surplus solar and wind could potentially be used to create hydrogen at scale, there will be an exciting opportunity to produce aviation and other fuels with carbon capture of biomass that could result in even fewer net greenhouse gas emissions. Likewise, as decarbonization efforts in the steel and cement industry rapidly increase.

ENVIVA is the world's largest producer of industrial wood pellets, a renewable and sustainable energy source used to generate electricity and heat. Through its subsidiaries, ENVIVA Holdings, LP owns and operates wood pellet processing plants and deep-water export terminals in the Southeastern U.S. and exports primarily to previously coal-fired power plants in the U.K., Europe and Japan. We make our pellets using sustainable practices that protect Southern forests and employ about 1,100 people and support many other businesses in the U.S. South. ENVIVA Holdings, LP conducts its activities primarily through two entities: ENVIVA Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership (NYSE: EVA), and ENVIVA Development Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned private company. (Source: ENVIVA Holdings, LP, Jan., 2021) Contact: ENVIVA Holdings, LP. ENVIVA Biomass, Enviva Partners, LP, (301) 657-5560, www.envivabiomass.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enviva,  Woody Biomass,  Wood Pellet,  Renewable Fuel,  CCS,  

2030 District
Date: 2021-01-25
In British Columbia, a new sustainability organization Greater Victoria 2030 District, part of North American network of cities, working to reduce emissions by promoting the concept of green buildings to significantly reduce the region's carbon footprint.

Greater Victoria 2030 District is part of a North American movement that gives property managers resources and guidance to retrofit existing buildings with energy efficiency features, as an investment and marketability tool, one that also addresses climate change.

Members commit to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct over 2007 levels by 2030. That means encouraging and helping property owners and managers create bench-marking reports, set efficiency targets, and create long-term plans to improve their building's performance in 10 to 15 years.

A partnership between the Building Owners and Managers Association of B.C., City of Victoria, District of Saanich and UVic, Greater Victoria 2030 District has a wide variety of properties on its list including municipal and provincial office buildings. (Source: Greater Victoria 2030 District, PR, Website, Saanich News, 23 Jan., 2020) Contact: Greater Victoria 2030 District, Cora Hallsworth, Manager, www.2030districts.org/greater-victoria; 2030 Districts Network, Dave Low, davelow@2030districts.org, www.2030districts.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

ENVIVA
Date: 2021-01-25
The following has been submitted by ENVIVA Holdings, LP, the world's largest industrial wood pellets producer:

Together renewable fuels will further displace coal and natural gas -- As countries take aggressive action on climate change to decarbonize their respective economies by 2050, the direction is clear -- all carbon-neutral and carbon-negative renewable fuels will need to work together if we want to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century. As the global energy demand for alternative fuels increase, 2021 will mark a turning point for the industry as wind, solar, geothermal, woody biomass, hydrogen, and lithium-ion battery energy providers (among others) make a collective and coordinated effort to combat the global climate crisis.

Europe will continue to be the "Poster Child" for renewable energy implementation, but there will be some regulatory uncertainty. -- Delivering Europe's long-term ambition to become the first climate neutral continent by 2050 requires an extensive set of urgent measures to scale up action. At the very least, the world-leading sustainability criteria established by the Renewable Energy Directive II (REDII) will need to be fully implemented by all member states if Europe plans to meet their 2030 and 2050 emission reduction goals. At best, member states will need to further amend the directive if they wish to succeed in cutting carbon emissions by 55 pct in the next decade from 1990 levels.

Bioenergy is the largest renewable energy source in the EU and will be critical to increased deployment of wind and solar -- The use of bioenergy has more than doubled since 2000 as a result of its end-use as heat, transportation, and electricity. In fact, biomass is the only renewable fuel on the market that is readily available today and can replace fossil fuels for heat generation. In heavy industries such as steel, aluminum, and cement, sustainably sourced wood-based biomass offers a carbon-neutral fuel replacement for coal and gas-fired furnaces (and combined heat and power plants). As a dependable and dispatchable renewable fuel, sustainably-sourced biomass represents a prime solution to complement the intermittency of wind and solar (among other renewables) that will reduce carbon emissions by more than 85 pct on a lifecycle basis.

Biomass to assist the development and deployment of a hydrogen economy -- Looking ahead to more future-oriented solutions, such as the development of the hydrogen economy, biomass is projected to play an important role. The most obvious is to use biomass directly to create hydrogen through gasification and thereby avoid carbon emissions that are associated with natural gas. Even further down the road, when surplus solar and wind could potentially be used to create hydrogen at scale, there will be an exciting opportunity to produce aviation and other fuels with carbon capture of biomass that could result in even fewer net greenhouse gas emissions. Likewise, as decarbonization efforts in the steel and cement industry rapidly increase, they too will look to bioenergy solutions for support.

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) -- is one of the very few options on the table that can remove carbon from the atmosphere. Once matured, BECCS could mark the beginning of a new era for low-carbon fuel applications that will enable us to meet and/or exceed international net zero targets while still enjoying air travel and heavy goods transport, which is difficult and very expensive to decarbonize. We expect 2021 will be the year that we see true progress in climate change mitigation, as a result of new initiatives/policies, new innovations, and new collaborations that are already taking shape.

COVID 19 Pandemic aftermath -- Throughout the pandemic we've seen an increased global interest in reducing carbon emissions. Looking ahead, we expect renewable fuels and energy will continue to play a crucial role in power generation for decades to come.

ENVIVA Holdings, LP is the world's largest producer of industrial wood pellets, a renewable and sustainable energy source used to generate electricity and heat. Through its subsidiaries, ENVIV Holdings owns and operates wood pellet processing plants and deep-water terminals in the Southeastern U.S. and exports pellets primarily to formerly coal-fired power plants in the U.K, Europe and Japan. ENVIVA makes pellets using sustainable practices that protect Southern forests and employ about 1,100 people and support many other businesses in the U.S. South. ENVIVA Holdings, LP conducts its activities primarily through two entities: Enviva Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership (NYSE: EVA), and ENVIVA Development Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned private company. (Source: ENVIVA Holdings, LP, Jan., 2021) Contact: ENVIVA Holdings, LP, www.envivabiomass.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News ENVIVA,  Renewable Energy,  Woody Biomass,  Wood Pellet,  

En+ Group
Date: 2021-01-22
London and Moscow-based Russian energy and aluminum company En+ Group, the world's largest aluminium maker, is reporting it aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions 35 pct by 2030 and achieve carbon net-zero by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal and supportive of the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

The company plan covers Scope 1 and 2 emissions across the group's entire operations, including aluminum production, heat and electricity generation. To that end, the company will convene a En+ Climate Change Taskforce and publish its final net-zero strategy in September 2021 ahead of the UN COP26 in Glasgow.

The company notes its target of emitting less than 2.7 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per tonne of aluminum (scope 1 and scope 2 from electrolysis) by 2025, was met in 2017. (Source: En+ Group, PR, Website, Platts, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: En+ Group (London), +44 207 747 4900, Fax: +44 207 747 4910, Sustainable Dev . (Moscow), +7 495 642 7937, csr@enplus.ru, www.enplusgroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Caebon Neutral,  Carbon Emissions,  

Vermont Gas
Date: 2021-01-20
In South Burlington, Vermont Gas Service (VGS) has filed its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) reaffirming its commitment to climate change action, a decarbonized thermal energy future and an affordable pathway to Net Zero by 2050.

The filing represents a shift from prior planning models. While the Company will continue to add customers within its existing footprint, this plan considers decreasing natural gas loads and strategies under which VGS can promote such further reductions through efficiency and weatherizations, as well as meeting the needs of customers through expanded energy services.

VGS serves over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties and plays an important role in Vermont's clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30 pct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and full elimination by 2050. (Source: Vermont Gas, PR, 18 Jan, 2021) Contact: Vermont Gas, Neale Lunderville, CEO, Beth Parent, Brand Manager, (802) 865-1460 / (802) 578-2776, bparent@vermontgas.com, www.vgsvt.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vermont Gas,  Energy Efficiency,  Smart Energy,  

Vermont Gas
Date: 2021-01-20
In South Burlington, Vermont Gas Service (VGS) has filed its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) reaffirming its commitment to climate change action, a decarbonized thermal energy future and an affordable pathway to net-zero emissions by 2050.

The Filing represents a shift from prior planning models. While the Company will continue to add customers within its existing footprint, this plan considers decreasing natural gas loads and strategies under which VGS can promote such further reductions through efficiency and weatherizations, as well as meeting the needs of customers through expanded energy services.

VGS serves over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont's clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30 pct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and full elimination by 2050. (Source: Vermont Gas, PR, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: Vermont Gas, Neale Lunderville, CEO, Beth Parent, Brand Manager, (802) 865-1460 / (802) 578-2776, bparent@vermontgas.com, www.vgsvt.com

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

Honeywell
Date: 2021-01-15
Charlotte, N.C.-based Honeywell reports the introduction of a new UOP Ecofining technology for the production of renewable diesel fuel.

The single-stage Ecofining process produces Honeywell Green Diesel fuel which is chemically identical to petroleum-based diesel and can be used as a drop-in replacement in vehicles with no modifications. It also delivers an 80 pct lifecycle reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared with petroleum diesel.

The new process uses a combination of catalysts to clean and remove oxygenates and other contaminants from the feedstock, and then "isomerize" the feed to improve its cold-flow properties.

The UOP Ecofining process is used in most 100 pct biofeed units producing renewable diesel worldwide. UOP currently has licensed 20 Ecofining units in nine countries processing 12 different types of renewable feedstocks, according to the compamy release. (Source: Honeywell, PR, Website, 13 Jan., 2021) Contact: Honeywell Sustainable Technology Solutions, Ben Owens, VP, GM, (480) 353-3020, www.honeywell.com/us/en/company/sustainability

More Low-Carbon Energy News UOP Ecofining,  Renewable Diesel.UOP Honeywell,  Diamond Green Diesel,  

PepsiCo
Date: 2021-01-15
Beverage giant PepsiCo Inc. is pledging to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. The company's goals include curbing absolute emissions across its direct operations by 75 pct and its Scope 3 emissions -- those generated in the supply chain or by customers using the products -- by 40 pct from 2015 levels by 2030. Currently, Scope 3 emissions account for about 91 pct of PepsiCo's carbon footprint, according to Jim Andrew, chief sustainability officer.

PepsiCo's climate goals were approved by the Science Based Targets initiative, a collaboration of leading nonprofits that helps companies ensure their strategies match scientific need. The company has also signed on to the Business Ambition for 1.5 degree C pledge. (Source: PepsiCo Inc., Website PR, Jan., 2021) Contact: PepsiCo, www.pepsico.com/contact; Science Based Targets Initiative

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Emissions news,  Carbon Emissions news,  Science Based Targets Initiative news,  

NOrway, Carbon Tax
Date: 2021-01-11
In Oslo, the Norwegian Environment Ministry's recently released Climate plan 2021-30 plan is aiming to more than triple the country's national tax on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the present 590 crowns to 2,000 Norwegian crowns ($237) per tonne by 2030.

As previously noted, Norway -- western Europe's largest oil and gas producer -- aims to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct or more by 2030 compared with 1990 levels. (Source: Gov. of Norway, Ministry of Climate and Environment, Jan., 2020) Contact: Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment, Sveinung Rotevatn, Minister, +47 22 24 57 11, postmottak@kld.dep.no, www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/kld/id668

More Low-Carbon Energy News Norway Carbon Tax,  Carbon Tax,  GHGs,  

GEVO
Date: 2021-01-08
Englewood, Colorado-headquartered ethanol and isobutanol producer GEVO Inc. reports that, as of December 31, 2020, the company has paid off the outstanding balance of $12.7 million in 12 pct convertible senior secured notes exchanged and issued to Whitebox Advisors LLC last January.

On December 23 and December 29, the holders of the notes converted the remaining $12.7 million into an aggregate of 5.6 million shares of Gevo common stock. The conversion saved GEVO $12.7 million in cash and reduced the group's general corporate secured debt balance to zero, according to the release.

GEVO is commercializing the next generation of gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel fuel with the potential to achieve zero carbon emissions, addressing the market need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions with sustainable alternatives, according to its website. (Source: GEVO Inc., PR 6 Jan., 2021) Contact: GEVO Inc., Patrick Gruber, 303-858-8358, pgruber@gevo.com, www.gevo.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News GEVO,  

California State University Dominguez Hills
Date: 2021-01-08
In the Golden State, the California State University Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) in Carson is reporting receipt of over $1.18 million in performance payments from the Clean Energy Optimization Pilot, a four-year, $20 million effort for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The Southern California Edison (SCE) administered program payments are funded through SCE's cap-and-trade auction revenues and is based on actual metered results. Success is measured on greenhouse emissions avoided, rather than the standard method of measuring reduced energy use.

In qualifying for the payment, CSUDH upgraded its natural gas absorption chillers with electric chillers, and one large natural gas boiler with eight small condensing staged boilers for a 57 pct reduction in natural gas usage, a 2.8 million gallons drop in water usage in one year, and significantly cut to CSUDH's greenhouse gas emissions. Other energy savings initiatives included installation of new LED lighting and smart sensors in several campus buildings. (Source: California State University Dominguez Hills, PR, Daily Breeze, 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: California State University Dominguez Hills, 310-243-3696, www.csudh.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Southern California Edison,  GHGs,  Greenhouse Gas Emissions,  

United Airlines
Date: 2021-01-08
Further to our 14th Dec, 2020 coverage, US air carrier United Airlines notes it recognizes the role it plays as an airline in contributing to climate change, its responsibility in solving it and has accordingly set a goal of going 100 pct green by reducing 100 pct of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

To that end, United notes "true sustainability is about taking on the biggest culprit in our industry -- the emissions generated by our aircraft." Accordingly, the company notes it is looking beyond using carbon offsets which "simply don't go far enough to address the emissions caused by our operations."

To achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, United aims to tackle its emissions from their source by continuing and accelerating development and investment in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). United well also make a multimillion-dollar investment to help fund start-up company 1Point Five's planned Direct Air Capture plant to capture, remove and store 1 million metric tpy of CO2 -- equivalent to the work of 40 million trees. (Source: United Airlines, PR, 6 Jan., 2021)Contact: United Airlines, www.corporate-office-headquarters.com/united-airlines 1Point Five, www.1pointfive.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Capture,  CCS,  SAF,  Direct Air Carbon Capture,  United Airline,  Carbon Neutral,  ,  

Climate Change,International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis
Date: 2021-01-08
Grasslands play a critical role in carbon sequestration. But a recent study -- Climate Warming from Managed Grasslands Cancels Cooling Effect of Carbon Sinks in Sparsely Grazed and Natural Grasslands -- found human activity is causing grasslands to become a source of greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the USDA Climate Change Resource Center, grasslands cover approximately 25 pct of the earth's surface, contain nearly 12 pct of the land-based carbon stocks and are essential in supporting food and livestock production. Yet, citing the expansion of pasture lands and higher livestock numbers, researchers warn current management of grasslands is accelerating climate change.

Until recently, natural and managed grasslands emitted and removed an equal amount of greenhouse gases, canceling each other out. Researchers from the Austria-based International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) investigated how these fluctuations in greenhouse gases have contributed to climate change in both managed pastures and natural grasslands, between the years of 1750 and 2012. The IIASA researchers found that the ability for natural and sparsely grazed grasslands to absorb more carbon has intensified while grasslands heavily managed by humans became a source of greenhouse gases, emitting similar quantities of greenhouse gases to that of croplands.

While nearly half of all temperate grasslands and 16 pct of tropical grasslands have been transformed for agricultural or industrial use and conserving grasslands to preserve soil health and reduce emissions from managed grasslands could deliver a significant reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the study.

Download the Climate Warming from Managed Grasslands Cancels Cooling Effect of Carbon Sinks in Sparsely Grazed and Natural Grasslands report HERE. (Source: Nature Communications, EcoWatch, 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: USDA Climate Change Resource Center, www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc; International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, www.iiasa.ac.at

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

China Carbon Market
Date: 2021-01-04
In Beijing, the Chinese Ministry of Ecology and Environment is reporting China will set up the trading platform of its long-awaited nationwide emission trade scheme (ETS) in Shanghai and the registry platform in the central city of Wuhan. Shanghai and Wuhan are among seven cities that have carried out pilot trading schemes since 2011.

The long-delayed scheme is expected to cover 2,267 power plants across China in its first phase and encourage firms to cut their greenhouse gas emissions through the purchase and sale of emission permits. Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged to bring the country's carbon emission to a peak before 2030 and to reach carbon neutrality around 2060. Chine is presently the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases.

As reported in Dec., the China Securities Regulatory Commission is considering emissions trading futures to boost green development and help Beijing fulfill its promise to peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.(Source: China Daily, Various Others, Jan., 2020)Contact: China Securities Regulatory Commission, www.csrc.gov.cnChinese Ministry of Ecology and Environment, english.mee.gov.cn

More Low-Carbon Energy News China Carbon Markets,  China ETS,  

NYSERDA,New York Department of Environmental Conservation
Date: 2021-01-04
In Albany, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced a partnered state effort leveraging new drone technology and magnetic surveillance to spot methane emitting abandoned oil and gas wells and related infrastructure statewide.

To date, the DEC effort has located over 2,000 "orphan" wells that can continue to release methane -- which accounts for nearly 10 pct of the state's annual greenhouse gas emissions.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has pledged support for existing DEC efforts and committed to invest up to $400,000 in custom drone and imaging equipment for well assessments. The DEC reports short-lived methane is second only to long-lasting carbon dioxide in its overall contribution to global climate change.

The DEC has the regulatory authority to take possession of abandoned wells and initiate plugging and re-plugging under Article 23 of state Environmental Conservation Law. Additionally, the state's Climate Act mandates a 40 pct reduction of 1990 greenhouse gas emission levels by 2030, and an 85 pct reduction by 2050. (Source: New York Department of Environmental Conservation, PR, Watertown Daily Times, 2 Jan., 2020) Contact: New York Department of Environmental Conservation, contact@dec.ny.gov , www.dec.ny.gov; NYSERDA, Doreen Harris, Acting CEO, (518) 862-1090, www.nyserda.ny.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Methane,  NYSERDA,  

Earthworks
Date: 2020-12-30
"The Biden-Harris administration's energy policies will ready our nation for the just, equitable, and fair renewable energy transition. We hope this will result in more science-led decisions with greater focus on renewable energy and less on fossil fuels, especially from our public lands and waters.

"We may see a few major steps within the first 100 days, by re-entering the Paris Climate Accords and a new climate Executive Order redirecting agencies' missions toward sustainability. The environmental agencies like the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will again take climate change seriously. CEQ will take a 'hard look' at climate impacts across all our government's decisions while the EPA tackles methane emissions from oil, gas, and other sources.

"Our public lands agencies like the Departments of Interior and the Agriculture Department's Forest Service will plan for net zero greenhouse gas emissions. This, of course, means fewer oil and gas leases while scaling up renewable energy. These agencies will manage our resources with a renewed climate emphasis on restoring ecosystems, preserving wetlands, reclaiming abandoned mines and oil wells, and better forest management, paired with other techniques to naturally sequester carbon." (Source: Earthworks, Power Tech, 23 Dec., 2020) Contact: Earthworks, Aaron Mintzes, Senior Policy Council, 202-887-1872, info@earthworks.org, www.earthworks.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Earthworks,  Renewable Energy,  

Growth Energy
Date: 2020-12-30
"Canada continues to be a trailblazer in addressing climate change and cutting greenhouse gases through biofuels." -- Emily Skor, Growth Energy, CEO commenting the Canadian governments recently announced nationwide Clean Fuel Standard draft regulation.

The Canadian regulation is an initiative to reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of fuels and energy used in Canada and achieve a more than 20 million tpy reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The Canadian Clean Fuel Standard aims for an average 15 pct (E15) ethanol-gasoline blend rate by 2030. (Source: Growth Energy, Dec, 2020) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News E15,  Growth Energy,  Ethanol,  Ethanol Blend,  Canada Clan Fuels Standard,  

US EPA,ICAO
Date: 2020-12-30
In Washington, the US The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) it is adopting greenhouse gas (GHG) emission standards applicable to certain classes of engines used by civil subsonic jet airplanes and larger subsonic propeller-driven airplanes. These new standards are equivalent to the airplane CO2 standards adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 2017 and apply to both new type design airplanes and in-production airplanes.

The standards meet the EPA's obligation under the Clean Air Act to adopt GHG standards for certain classes of airplanes as a result of the 2016 Finding That Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Aircraft Cause or Contribute to Air Pollution That May Reasonably Be Anticipated To Endanger Public Health and Welfare for six well-mixed GHGs emitted by certain classes of airplane engines. Airplane engines emit only two of the six well-mixed GHGs, CO2 and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Download HERE.(Source: US EPA, Dec., 2020) Contact: US EPA, www.epa.gov; ICAO, 514-954-8219, 514-954-6077 -- fax, icaohq@icao.int, www.icao.int

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aviation Emissions,  ICAO,  

European Union,EC
Date: 2020-12-28
In Brussels, leaders of the 27 member states have agreed to cut their net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 pct from 1990 levels by 2030, substantially toughening an existing 40 pct target and putting the bloc "on a clear path towards climate neutrality in 2050".

To that end, EU emissions trading market already seeks to put a price on the carbon emissions that drive climate change. The price of permits rose to an all-time high above €31 euros a tonne on expectations that the supply of permits would be cut, to force deeper emissions cuts. The target is a compromise between wealthier, mostly western and Nordic EU countries that want more ambitious action and eastern states with coal-dependent power sectors and energy-intensive industries, which wanted specific conditions attached to emissions cuts.

The final deal gives a commitment to address "imbalances" in carbon market funding that could leave poorer countries worse off. The leaders agreed to meet again next year to tackle the question of GDP-based emissions targets. The Commission's proposals will speed a shift to electric vehicles and aim to mobilise investments in the huge low-carbon infrastructure that will now be needed - including a requirement for extra energy sector investments of €350 billion ($420 billion) per year this decade. (Source: EU, ET Auto, Dec., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Union,  European Commission,  Carbon Emissions,  

Princeton University
Date: 2020-12-23
In New Jersey, Princeton University has released its Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions to Net Zero program to achieve carbon neutrality by 2046. The program calls for:

Building new construction to higher standards including LEED and Passive House standards:

Phasing out nonrenewable energy sources, including natural gas used today to produce steam heat and power;

Expand solar array installations and geo-exchange technology;

Tightening the energy efficiency of existing buildings;

Installing a new, more efficient hot water distribution system;

Building highly efficient heat pump facilities;

Increased use of renewable energy, and other energy efficient and climate friendly initiatives.

Download the program HERE. (Source: Pronceton University, Dec., 2020)

CVR Energy
Date: 2020-12-23
Sugarland, Texas-based CVR Energy Inc is reporting Board approval to advance work on a $110-million renewable diesel plant in Wynnewood, Oklahoma.

When commissioned and fully operational, the facility will produce almost 100 million gpy of renewable diesel and roughly 6 million gpy of renewable naphth and significantly lower the company's annual Renewable Identification Number (RIN) exposure under the Clean Air Act's Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

The use of RNG as a transportation fuel has reportedly increased 291 pct over the past 5 years, displacing close to 7.5 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). That is the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent of driving 18.6 trillion miles in a typical passenger cat. It is the CO2 emissions equivalent of consuming 842 million gallons of gasoline. This equates to the total amount of fuel used by 63,171 transit buses every year, according to trade data(Source: CVR Energy, PR, 22 Dec., 2020) Contact: CVR Energy Inc., David Lamp., CEO, (281) 207-3200, www.cvrenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News RINs,  CVR Energy,  Renewable Diesel,  

Securities Regulatory Commission
Date: 2020-12-21
Yesterday, the China Securities Regulatory Commission reported it is considering emissions trading futures to boost green development and help Beijing fulfill its promise to peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

As previously reported, China has piloted emissions trading in seven provinces and cities, including Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, since 2011 to explore market-based mechanisms to control greenhouse gas emissions. (Source: China Securities Regulatory Commission, China.org, Xinhua, 20 Dec., 2020) Contact: China Securities Regulatory Commission, www.csrc.gov.cn

More Low-Carbon Energy News China Carbon Markets,  

Peat
Date: 2020-12-21
In the UK, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) analysis has revealed the scale of the challenge that the Northern Ireland Assembly and the other UK governments and agencies face to restore and maintain the country's peatlands, which play a pivotal role in combating climate change.

Peatland covers approximately 12 pct of the land area of Northern Ireland, but 86 pct of peatlands have been damaged by pressures, including drainage, overgrazing, afforestation, burning and extraction in lowland areas.

The RSPB's analysis shows peatlands avoid 1,992 tpy of CO2 emissions -- equivalent to 5 pct of total UK greenhouse gas emissions every year. According to Martin Harper, RSPB Director of Global Conservation, "Peatlands are an incredibly important habitat in the UK both for wildlife and for storing carbon. If our peatlands are not restored, they will emit twice as much carbon as would be captured by tree planting in the Committee on Climate Change's UK forestry targets for 2050."

(Source: RSPS, Farm Week, 20 Dec., 2020) Contact: RSPB, www.community.rspb.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Peat,  Carbon Storage,  Methane,  

Airports Council International,Airport Carbon Accreditation
Date: 2020-12-21
The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) has bagged the prestigious gold award in Telangana State Energy Conservation Awards-2020 (TSECA). The award was presented for the airport's energy efficiency and conservation initiatives. Over the last three years, GHIAL energy conservation initiatives led to substantial energy savings and rapid dip in greenhouse gas emissions at the airport.

RGIA is a carbon neutral airport with level 3 + Neutrality accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) under its Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. (Source: RGIA, PR, Telangana Today, 20 Dec., 2020) Contact: Airports Council International,Airport Carbon Accreditationwww.aci.aero

More Low-Carbon Energy News Airports Council International,  Airport Carbon Accreditation ,  

Date: 2020-12-21
In Ottawa, the CBC is reporting the Canadian federal government has proposed rules for its Clean Fuel Standard (CFS) that producers and distributors would have to follow under the Canadian climate plan. The CFS to intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the carbon in transportation fuels and heating oil.

The regulations would require fossil fuels producers and distributors to reduce their products carbon content by 2.6 pct by 2022 increasing to 13 pct by 2030. Companies could achieve that by reducing carbon emitted during production and use of those fuels or by earning credits to apply against emissions. Import rules would be tightened to ensure biofuels brought into Canada were actually reducing carbon emissions in their country of origin. The rules would also enable fuel distributors to earn credits by helping drivers switch to electric vehicles by, for example, building charging stations.

Current biofuel and fossil fuel blending requirements would remain and become part of the new regulations which are projected to reduce emissions by nearly 21 megatonnes by 2030. (Source: CBC News, 20 Dec., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Canada Clean Fuel Standard,  

Hailey
Date: 2020-12-18
In Idaho, the Hailey City Resiliency Coordinator Rebecca Bundy has released results of the city's 2020 Greenhouse Gas Inventory conducted in partnership with Local Governments for Sustainability, an international organization of more than 1,750 local and regional governments.

The study -- which began in January -- takes a holistic look at CO2 and methane emissions in the broader Ketchum, Sun Valley and Blaine County Idaho community. Using the most recent available data from utility companies, the study found residential and commercial emissions from natural gas and electricity made up 33 and 29 pct, respectively, of the total community greenhouse gas emissions. Transportation emissions from fossil fuels represented 30 pct, solid waste emissions, 5 pct and industrial emissions and natural gas leaks finished at 3 pct. The audit does not include data from Friedman Memorial Airport, which accounts for over 40 pct of the city's ground-level emissions.

Additionally, the city of Hailey is considering a standalone agreement with Idaho Power that would see the utility regularly update the city on renewable energy projects and provide the city with aggregated data on energy use starting in 2022.

The study is considered a starting point for the community's plan to transition to 100 pct renewable electricity by 2035. (Source: City of Hailey, Idaho Mountain Express, 16 Dec., 2020) Contact: City of Hailey, Rebecca Bundy, 208-788-4221, www.haileycityhall.org; Idaho Power, Megan Ronk, Director of Business Innovation and Dev., Local Governments for Sustainability, www.iclei.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHG,  Greenhouse Gas Emissions,  

UNEP
Date: 2020-12-18
Each year, the UN Emissions Gap Report assesses the gap between anticipated emissions and levels consistent with the Paris Agreement goals of limiting global warming this century to well below 2 degrees C and pursuing 1.5 degrees C. The report finds that in 2019 total greenhouse gas emissions, including land-use change, reached a new high of 59.1 gigatonnes of CO2 equivalent (GtCO2e). Global greenhouse gas emissions have grown 1.4 pct per year since 2010 on average, with a more rapid increase of 2.6 pct in 2019 due to a large increase in forest fires.

A green pandemic recovery, however, can cut up to 25 pct off the emissions we would expect to see in 2030 based on policies in place before COVID-19. A green recovery would put emissions in 2030 at 44 GtCO2e, instead of the predicted 59 GtCO2e -- far outstripping emission reductions foreseen in unconditional NDCs, which leave the world on track for a 3.2 degrees C temperature rise. Such a green recovery would put emissions within the range that gives a 66 pct chance of holding temperatures to below 2 degrees C, but would still be insufficient to achieve the 1.5 degrees C goal.

The report also notes that the growing number of countries committing to net-zero emissions goals by mid-century is a "significant and encouraging development" with 126 countries covering 51 pct of global greenhouse gas emissions adopting, announcing or were considering net-zero goals.

Download the Green Pandemic Recovery Essential to Close Climate Action Gap report HERE. (Source: UNEP, Dec., 2020) Contact: UNEP, www.unep.org

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

European Commissions
Date: 2020-12-16
The European Commission (EC) reports the adoption of the Renovation Wave Strategy and other energy proposals and strategies fundamental to the implementation of the EU Green Deal and to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as well as emission reduction targets by 2030.

The Renovation Wave Strategy aims to at least double the office building renovation rate in the next ten years and make sure renovations lead to higher energy and resource efficiency, save energy, reduce Europe's greenhouse gas emissions, foster digitalization and improve the reuse and recycling of materials, according to a press release. The release noted that by 2030, 35 million buildings could be renovated and up to 160,000 additional green jobs created in the construction sector.

Buildings are responsible for about 40 pct of the EU's energy consumption, and 36 pct of greenhouse gas emissions. But only 1 pct of buildings undergo energy efficient renovation every year, so effective action is crucial to making Europe climate-neutral by 2050. (Source: EU, New Europe, Oct., 2020) Contact: EU Green Deal, ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  EU Green Deal,  

Clean Energy Fuels
Date: 2020-12-16
In the Golden State, Newport Beach-based Clean Energy Fuels Corp. is reporting new and extended contracts for more than 58 million gallons of Redeem™ renewable natural gas (RNG) to accommodate the continued demand for the sustainable fuel from key business segments including heavy duty trucking, solid waste and public transit.

Clean Energy's Redeem™ was the first commercially available RNG vehicle fuel derived from biogenic methane from dairy, landfill, and wastewater treatment plant wastes. Redeem reduces climate-harming greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70 pct and up to 300 pct depending on the source of the RNG, making it a negative carbon fuel.

Clean Energy Fuels operates a network of 540 CNG and LNG fueling stations and natural gas liquefication facilities in California and Texas, and transports bulk CNG and LNG to non-transportation customers around the U.S. (Source: Clean Energy Fuels, Website PR, 15 Dec., 2020) Contact: Clean Energy Fuels, Raleigh Gerber, Nate Jensen, VP, 949-437-1397, raleigh.gerber@cleanenergyfuels.com, www.CleanEnergyFuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Clean Energy Fuels,  RNG,  CNL,  LNG,  

Phillips 66
Date: 2020-12-16
Houston-headquartered petroleum giant Phillips 66 has announced its 2021 capital budget of $1.7 billion.

The Refining budget includes pre-construction engineering and design costs related to the company's plan to reconfigure its San Francisco Refinery in Rodeo, California, to produce 800 million gpy of renewable fuel, making it one of the world's largest facilities of its kind.

The conversion is expected to reduce the facility's greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct and help the Golden State meet its low carbon objectives. (Source: Phillips 66, Dec., 2020) Contact: Phillips 66, Jeff Dietert , IR, 832-765-2297, jeff.dietert@p66.com, www.p66.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Phillips 66,  Renewable Fuels,  

Quadrise Fuels International
Date: 2020-12-16
In the UK, London-based Quadrise Fuels International is reporting the launch of bioMSAR®, a synthetic alternative to heavy fuel oil (HFO) with significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

The new product uses the company's MSAR technology to combine renewable glycerol with water and refinery residues to produce an oil-in-water emulsified synthetic fuel with 20 to 30 pct less carbon dioxide and lower nitrous oxide and particulate levels.

A switch to bioSAR fuel has similar benefits to using liquified natural gas (LNG) instead of HFO, according to Quadrise.

Moving forward, the company is planning engine and combustion testing of bioMSAR®, new fuel developments, and commercial discussions with stakeholders in the biofuel supply chain. (Source: Quadrise Fuels International PLC, Proactive, 14 Dec., 2020) Contact: Quadrise Fuels International PLC, Jason Miles, CEO, +44 20 7031 7321, info@quadriseduels.com, www.quadrisefuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Quadrise Fuels International ,  

European Commission
Date: 2020-12-16
The European Commission (EC) reports it has approved, under EU state aid rules, a €30 billion scheme to support projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Netherlands while contributing to the EU environmental objectives and supporting the EU Green Deal.

The €30 billion scheme, which will run until 2025, will support cost effective renewable energy, use of waste heat, hydrogen production, carbon capture and storage(CCS) and other environmentally-friendly projects in line with EU rules.

Scheme beneficiaries will receive support via a variable premium contract of up to 15 years, according to the EC release. (Source: European Commission, EU Reporter, 15 Dec., 2020)Contact: EU Green Deal, ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Commission ,  European Green Deal,  Carbon Emissions,  GHGs,  

Advanced Biofuel Solutions,InnovateUK
Date: 2020-12-14
In the UK, Swindon-based Advanced Biofuel Solutions Ltd (ABSL)reports receipt of £250,000 in grant funding from Innovate UK to design a production line that makes high purity biohydrogen for fuel cell electric vehicles.

ABL will convert household waste into bio-substitute natural gas (BioSNG) that is injected into the local gas grid and then sold to compressed natural gas (CNG) filling stations. The project will focus on purifying a slipstream of syngas to meet the stringent specification for proton electron membrane fuel cells. The hydrogen would then be compressed and transferred to tube trailers that will take it to hydrogen refueling stations for use in buses and other hydrogen vehicles.

ABSL's RadGas technology converts waste into a high-quality synthesis gas which Wood's VESTA technology converts into BioSNG. Wood will adapt the VESTA system to switch flexibly between the biohydrogen and BioSNG production enabling ABSL to deliver either product to meet market demand. University College os London will test the biohydrogen at their Electrochemical Innovation Lab as well as assess the greenhouse gas emissions associated with biohydrogen and compare them to blue and green hydrogen.

Overall, the project aims to develop a new source of hydrogen to help give transport providers in the public and private sectors the confidence to adopt this important new fuel. (Source: Advanced Biofuel Solutions Ltd., PR, Dec. 2020) Contact: Advanced Biofuel Solutions Ltd., Andy Cornell, CEO, +44 0 1793 832 860, info@absl.tech, www.absl.tech

More Low-Carbon Energy News Advanced Biofuel Solutions news,  Innovate UK news,  

Neste Corp
Date: 2020-12-11
Espoo, Finland-headquartered renewable diesel specialist Neste reports that the beginning of January 2021, will mark the launch of its Neste MY Non Road Diesel™ fuel oil produced from 100 pct renewable raw materials. Neste MY Non Road Diesel is comparable to Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ used in road transport, in terms of the 100 pct raw material base and emissions reduction.

At the beginning of 2021, the Finnish government bio mandate for renewable fuels will be extended to fuel oil. The mandate is intended to promote the use of biofuel oil to replace light fuel oil in heavy equipment, stationary motors and heating to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support Finland's and the EU's climate goals. (Source: Neste, PR, All Things Arb, 10 Dec., 2020)Contact: Neste Corp., Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  

IEA
Date: 2020-12-09
According to the International Energy Agency's Energy Efficiency 2020 report, global improvements in energy efficiency, as measured by primary energy intensity, have been declining since 2015.

The Covid-19 crisis adds an extra level of stress. As a result of the crisis and continuing low energy prices, energy intensity is expected to improve by only 0.8 pct in 2020, roughly half the rates, corrected for weather, for 2019 (1.6 pct) and 2018 (1.5 pct) -- well below the level needed to achieve global climate and sustainability goals and worrying because energy efficiency delivers more than 40 pct of the reduction in energy-related greenhouse gas emissions over the next 20 years in the IEA's Sustainable Development Scenario.

Download the IEA Energy Efficiency 2020 report HERE. (Source: IEA, Dec., 2020) Contact: IEA, www.iea.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News IEA,  Energy Efficiency,  

Arauco
Date: 2020-12-09
Santiago, Chile-headquartered global forest products manufacturer Arauco reports it is the first forest products company to achieve carbon neutrality by following two complementary paths -- efficiencies at an operational level that allow the company to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and at the same time an increase in CO2 captures by the native forest, forest plantations, and carbon stored in forestry products. The company plans to further reduce its emissions by incentivizing suppliers to reduce their own footprints, continuing to replace fossil fuels, and increasing its use of by-products.

According to Arauco Human Resources and Sustainability VP Charles Kimber, "Climate change is without a doubt one of the most serious problems being faced by our planet." (Source: Arauco, Woodworking Network, 7 Dec., 2020) Contact: Arauco, Charles Kimber, VP Sustainability, na.arauco.com

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

Braskem
Date: 2020-12-07
Polyolefins and biopolymers producer Braskem reports that under its 2009 long-term climate change and sustainability goals for 2020 the company aims to provide solutions that address climate change and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Under the plan, Braskem has invested in the development of I'm green ™ products sourced from renewable sources and recycled content, while in the same period reducing the intensity of carbon emissions from its operations by 20 pct. In 2018, Braskem further committed to 100 pct of plastic packaging being reused, recycled, or recovered by 2040. Braskem further committed to:

expand its I'm green ™ portfolio to include sales of 300,000 tons of recycled content products per year by 2025;

continue to expand the I'm green ™ portfolio to include sales of 1 million tpy of recycled content products by 2030;

work to divert 1.5 million tons of plastic waste away from incineration, landfill, or the environment by 2030;

deliver a 15 pct reduction in carbon emissions from Braskem operations by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality for Braskem's global operations by 2050.

Braskem's I'm green™ brand was born in 2010 together with the world's first bioplastic (green polyethylene (PE)) produced on an industrial scale, using responsibly sourced sugarcane as raw material. Cultivation of sugarcane utilized in the production of I'm green ™ polyethylene captures CO2 and releases oxygen which means Braskem's bioplastic has a negative carbon footprint. From a cradle-to-gate life-cycle perspective, every ton of I'm green ™ Polyethylene produced equates to 3.09 tons of CO2 captured from the atmosphere, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Braskem's carbon neutrality strategy focuses on reducing emissions, offsetting emissions, capturing emissions, improving energy efficiency and increased use of low carbon and renewable energy in current operations. Additionally, Braskem will continue to explore and invest in new low carbon intensity process technologies. (Source: Braskem, Website PR, Nov., 2020) Contact: Braskem, imgreen@braskem.com, www.braskem.com.br/imgreen/home-en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Braskem,  Bioplastic,  Carbon Emissions,  

Glencore
Date: 2020-12-07
Following up on our June 1st report, Swiss-headquartered and London listed coal mining giant Glencore has raised its pledge to reduce its direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions footprint by 40 pct compared to 2019 levels by 2035, before reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

To that end, Glencore noted it would: be "investing in the commodities the world needs" such as copper, cobalt, and nickel which are all essential for battery technologies and renewable energy infrastructure ; curbing coal production; supporting the deployment of low emission and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology and "engaging with its customers and supply chain partners." (Source: Glencore, PR, Dec., 2020) Contact: Glencore, Ivan Glasenberg, CEO, www.glencore.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Glencore,  Coal,  Carbon Emissions,  Net-Zero Emissions,  

New Zealand
Date: 2020-12-04
In Wellington, New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reports her government's recently declared "climate emergency" was based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's findings that New Zealand's emissions would need to fall by around 45 pct from 2010 levels by 2023 and reach zero by around 2050.

To meet its goal, the government promised the public sector will achieve carbon neutrality by 2025. Government agencies would be required to measure and report emissions and offset any they can't cut by 2025.

The Prime Minister's first term Zero Carbon Bill banned new offshore oil and gas exploration, but exempted agriculture from emissions regulations. Nearly half of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions, mainly methane, come from agriculture.

As we reported in July, the New Zealand Ministry for the Environment (MfE) is projecting the country's net greenhouse gas emissions will peak at 72.04 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (Mt CO2e) in 2025 -- more than double 1990 levels.

Although these figures do not take into account the impact of the recently-strengthened Emissions Trading Scheme, the impact of that policy is expected to be limited over the next decade -- in 2030, net emissions will be 64.01 Mt CO2e with the stronger ETS as opposed to the 66.07 Mt CO2e projected in the MfE figures. They will also be well above where they need to be for New Zealand to meet its commitment under the Paris Climate Agreement. (Source: New Zealand Ministry for the Environment, newsroompro, Reuters, Dec., 2020) Contact: New Zealand Ministry for the Environment, www.mfe.govt.nz

More Low-Carbon Energy News New Zealand,  Carbon Emissions,  Climate Change,  Carbon Neutral,  Methane,