NYPA
Date: 2021-03-22
In the Empire State, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and the Town of Tonawanda and the City of Tonawanda have partnered for the installation energy-efficient LED streetlights throughout the municipalities under the state's Smart Street Lighting NY program that calls for at least 500,000 streetlights throughout the state to be replaced with LED technology by 2025.

The installation of more than 7,600 LED streetlights in Tonawanda is expected to begin this month for completion before the year end. The $7.5 million project will be implemented by NYPA. The town is financing the lighting installation and the more than $12 million purchase of the lights from National Grid through a municipal bond. (Source: NYPA, Niagara Gazette, 22 Mar., 2021) Contact: NYPA, Gil Quiniones, Pres., CEO, www.nypa.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News NYPA,  LED Light,  LED Streetlight,  

Mass Saves, Eversource, National Grd
Date: 2021-02-19
In the Bay State, Mass Save® program sponsors Eversource and National Grid are reporting the communities of Framingham, Andover, Cambridge, Chelsea, Haverhill, Lawrence, Marshfield, Methuen and Westborough have been selected to participate in the 2021 Municipal Partnership and will benefit from funding and support to implement energy efficiency outreach in their communities.

The Municipal Partnership provides grants of up to $25,000 to Massachusetts municipalities that meet the partnership's goals for implementing energy efficiency outreach in their residential and small business communities and achieve exceptional energy savings by completing energy assessments and the installation of energy upgrades. These incentives are in addition to energy efficiency incentives already available to residents.

The MassSave® program, which is open to homeowners and renters, includes a no-cost energy audit and report that makes it easy to improve a home's energy efficiency. Mass Save will also install energy-saving products such as ENERGY STAR LED light bulbs; advanced power strips; low-flow showerheads; faucet aerators; and programmable thermostats or discounted wireless thermostats, all at no cost to home owners and renters. Program participants may also qualify for additional offers, rebates, and incentives for insulation, energy efficient HVAC and others based on the Home Energy Assessment report and household income levels. Mass Save is a collaborative of Massachusetts' natural gas and electric utilities and energy efficiency service providers including Berkshire Gas, Cape Light Compact, Eversource, Liberty Utilities, National Grid and Unitil. (Source: Mass Save, City of Framingham, PR, 17 Feb., 2021) Contact: Mass Save, www.masssave.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News MassSave,  Eversource,  National Grid,  Energy Efficiency,  

Social Energy
Date: 2021-01-29
U.K.-based residential energy aggregator Social Energy reports it is planning an international expansion after receipt of "a significant investment" from Minneapolis-based alternative investment manager CarVal Investors.

Social Energy offers low-cost energy to residential customers and sells solar and Duracell home battery systems then aggregates their output using an artificial intelligence-based metering system called the Social Energy Hub. Social Energy uses the aggregated capacity to offer services such as demand response and frequency response to U.K. electricity system operator National Grid ESO, and flexibility services to distribution system operators such as U.K. Power Networks.

About 70 pct of the revenue from these services is split between Social Energy's customers, allowing the energy company to offer a faster payback than residential solar and battery owners would receive with a standard self-consumption model.

In the U.K., Social Energy claims it can help residential customers save an average of £226 ($310) per year and has 6,300 U.K. customers, according to the company. (Source: Social Energy, PR, Jan., 2021) Contact: Social Energy, www.social.energy; CarVal Investors, www.carvalinvestors.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Social Energy ,  Solar,  Battery,  Energy Storage,  

NOCO
Date: 2021-01-20
Tonawanda, NY-based diversified energy company NOCO is reporting a master agreement with developers to purchase the solar credits from approximately 15 community solar array installations generating roughly 60 million kWh per year across the National Grid and NYSEG service territories.

The $120 million contractis in keeping with the company's goal to offset 40 pct of its electric portfolio with solar purchases by its residential and commercial customers by 2024.

NOCO is a full-service energy company serving homes and businesses throughout Western and Central New York State since 1933. NOCO's products and services include renewable energy and clean air solutions, bio-products, natural gas, electric, propane, heating oil, commercial fuels, HVAC, used oil and fluid waste recycling.(Source: NOCO, PR, Website, Jan., 2021) Contact: NOCO, James Dentinger, Pres., 800-662-6776, www.noco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Community Solar,  

Gas Technology Institute,EPRI, National Grid
Date: 2021-01-18
National Grid US has joined the Low-Carbon Resources Initiative (LCRI), a five-year initiative to develop and demonstrate key clean energy technologies and decarbonisation solutions. These include bioenergy, renewable natural gas (RNG), and clean hydrogen. LCRI is jointly led by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and Gas Technology Institute (GTI).

Joining LGRI is in keeping with National Grid's effort to advance the potential of clean hydrogen, hydrogen R&D and hydrogen fuel blending as part of its Net-Zero by 2050 Plan. (Source: National Grid, PR, EPRI Website, 15 Jan., 2021) Contact: EPRI Low-Carbon Resources Initiative, 650-855-2121, www.epri.com/lcri; Gas Technology Institute, 847-768-0500 847-768-0501 - fax, info@gti.energy, www.gti.energy; National Grid US, Dean Seavers, Pres., www.nationalgridus.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Gas Technology Institute,  EPRI,  National Grid US,  Hydrogen,  Bioenergy,  

ACEEE
Date: 2021-01-08
According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), Rhode Island ranks fourth in the nation as a leader in cost-effective energy efficiency programs, incentives, and energy efficiency investments that help residents and businesses use less energy to provide the same output. In doing so, these investments reduce energy consumption and costs as well as shrink the state's carbon footprint and create jobs throughout the green economy.

According to the press release, Rhode Island has set aggressive energy savings targets for electric and gas utilities' programs that help residential and commercial customers save energy as part of its energy efficiency resource standard. The State government is also adopting cost-saving efficiency measures that are reducing energy demands and operating costs and has also entered into an innovative Strategic Energy Management Plan (SEMP) with National Grid that is actively supporting the deployment of cost-effective efficiency investments across public sector facilities. (Source: State of Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families, PR, 8 Jan., 2021) Contact: State of Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families, www.dcyf.ri.gov; ACEEE, www.aceee.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News ACEEE,  Energy Efficiency,  

GE Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-12-30
GE Renewable Energy is reporting receipt of contract to supply eight units of its 3MW-137 wind turbines for the Phuoc Minh wind farm in Ninh Thuan region, Vietnam. of the country.

. A consortium of PowerChina Huadong Engineering Corporation, Henste Engineering and IPC Group will provide full engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for the project which is expected to generate more than 100 million kilowatt-hours of electricity a year to the national grid when fully operational in Q3, 2021. (Source: GE Renewable Energy, PR, renews.biz, 29 Dec., 2020)Contact: GE Renewable Energy, Onshore Wind South Asia, Gilan Sabatier, www.ge.com/renewableenergy

More Low-Carbon Energy News GE Renewable Energy,  Vietnam Wind,  

National Grid
Date: 2020-12-30
In the Empire State, National Grid is reporting the recent conversion of 2,300 roadway lights with the City of Lackawanna as part of its Streetlight Conversion Program. These new company-owned energy efficient LED streetlights will save on energy and maintenance costs to the City as well as improve visibility.

In total, the National Grid new LED Streetlight Conversion Program has saved upstate New York municipalities more than 18,000 MWh, or the equivalent of average energy consumed annually by approximately 1,660 U.S. homes. Additionally, National Grid has returned over $2 million in energy efficiency incentives to qualified municipalities that participated in the Streetlight Conversion program.

Since initially launching its LED Streetlight Conversion Program in 2017, National Grid has converted 40,000 traditional high-pressure sodium streetlight fixtures to LED.

Download the National Grid Streetlight Conversion Program details HERE. (Source: National Grid, PR, Dec., 2020) Contact: National Grid, National Grid, www.nationalgridus.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Grid,  LED Light,  LED Streetlight,  

Ofgem, Hydrogen
Date: 2020-12-02
In Scotland, 300 homes in Fife are slated to become the first in the world to use 100 pct green hydrogen to heat their properties as part of a 4-year trial that could help households across the country replace fossil fuel gas.

The test aims to determine whether zero carbon hydrogen, made using renewable energy and water, could help the UK meet its fossil fuels reduction and climate goals.

UK energy regulator Ofgem, has awarded £18 million to support the project and the Scottish government is adding £6.9 million in grant funding. Ofgem is also supporting a £12.7 million project from National Grid for "offline" hydrogen trials, using old gas grid pipes, to test the safety of transporting hydrogen. (Source: Ofgem, Guardian, 30 Nov., 2020) Contact: Ofgem, Jonathan Brearley, CEO, +44 0207 901 7225, www.ofgem.gov.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ofgem,  Green Hydrogen,  

Gresham House
Date: 2020-11-30
In the UK, Gresham House Energy Storage Fund is reporting completion of its investment in the 50MW battery project located near Wickham Market, Suffolk.

Wickham is a battery-only site with c.50MW/40MW export/import capacity, and 74MWh storage capacity. It is connected to the distribution network and expected to generate its revenues from trading whereby it imports and exports power in order to earn income from the wholesale market, and from National Grid's FFR tenders and Balancing Mechanism.

The project, which was acquired from Gresham House Devco Limited and Noriker Power Ltd., increases the total capacity of the 12 operational utility-scale battery storage projects in the portfolio to 315MW. (Source: Gresham House, PR, 30 Nov., 2020) Contact: Gresham House Energy Storage Fund, www.greshamhouse.com; Noriker Power Ltd., www.noriker.co.uk

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

Still Waters Green Technology
Date: 2020-11-27
In the UK, London-headquartered independent battery energy storage system (BESS) asset manager Still Waters Green Technology (SWGT) has announced the £12 million non-recourse Phase One Financial Close with Santander (Bank) UK, of a 30MW utility-scale, subsidy-free BESS asset in Swindon.

It is the first project finance funding structure that has adopted a multi debt tranche approach to the tiered risk profile of the BESS revenue model.

This project supports the growth of renewable energy sources by providing up to 65GWh of annual import and export capacity to the National Grid during its Phase One development -- critical to meeting the UK's carbon emission reduction target and Net-Zero ambition. (Source: Still Waters Green Technology, PR, Website, Business Leader, 26 Nov., 2020) Contact: Still Waters Green Technology, Olivia He, CEO, +44 (0) 207 519 6865, info@swgt.co.uk, www.swgt.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Storage,  Renewable Energy,  

Red Rock Powe,ESBr
Date: 2020-11-11
Edinburgh-based Red Rock Power Limited is reporting a 50:50 joint venture with ESB, the leading Irish energy group, for Inch Cape Offshore Limited and its offshore wind farm development The 72-turbine Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm will be one of Scotland's largest single sources of renewable energy projects and power up to 1 million homes when connected into the national grid at Cockenzie in East Lothian.

The project recently received approval to increase its capacity to up to one gigawatt having already secured both onshore and offshore consents in 2019. (Source: Red Rock Power Lyd, Website Press Release, 9 Nov., 2020) Contact: Red Rock Power, Guy Madgwick, CEO, +44 (0) 131 557 7101, www.redrockpower.co.uk; Inch Cape Wind, +44 (0) 131 557 7101, www.inchcapewind.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Inch Cape Wind,  Red Rock Power,  Wind,  Offshore Wind,  ESB,  

Glenn Falls
Date: 2020-11-09
In the Empire state, the city of Glen Falls reports it will replace its current leased streetlights with energy-efficient LED lighting, beginning next year. The $2.6 million project will be paid for over a 15-year period with the savings generated by the new lights.

To complete the conversion, the city recently secured a $2.6 million low-interest loan through the state's Power Authority, which will also carry out the work beginning sometime in January. The project is expected to take around three months to complete. The loan also comes with a separate $225,000 grant, which the city is currently deciding how to spend.

The currently leases its 1,500 streetlights through National Grid for around $140,000 a year. (Source: City of Glenn Falls, 7 Nov., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News LED Streetlight,  Energy Efficiency,  

BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell,Total
Date: 2020-10-28
International energy giants BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell and Total and National Grid are reporting their formation of the Northern Endurance Partnership, a joint alliance, and the submission of a £75 million bid for government funding from the second round of the UK's £170 million Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge for a project that will shuttle carbon emissions captured from the Teesside and Humber industrial hubs to a porus rock aquifer beneath the seabed for permanent sequestration. The partnership claims Endurance could potentially cut the UK's emissions in half.

The planned offshore pipeline network is key to the success of two major industrial decarbonisation projects being plotted on the UK's east coast -- Zero Carbon Humber and Net Zero Teesside -- aimed at capturing CO2 from local industry and then either finding other industrial uses for the CO2 or storing it under the North Sea. Both projects, Zero Carbon Humber and Net Zero Teesside, plan to capture and transport 17 million and 10 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions respectively every year, with commissioning in both cases earmarked for 2026. (Source: BP, UK Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge, Business Green, 27 Oct., 2020) Contact: UK Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge, www.idric.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News CCS,  BP,  Eni,  Equinor,  Shell,  Total,  UK Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge ,  

Zero Carbon Humber
Date: 2020-10-23
In the UK, Zero Carbon Humber has sent an open letter to energy minister Kwasi Kwarteng, calling on the government to back a major funding bid. This follows on from the 12 organisations behind the project submitting a bid to the second phase of the government's Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund for £75 million of funding.

The Zero Carbon Humber letter argues that if the bid was successful it would help unlock a potentially multi-billion pound project, reduce the UK's annual emissions by 15 pct and help the UK meet its international legally binding climate target.

The Zero Carbon Humber partnership, which was first announced in May 2019, members include: Drax, National Grid Ventures , Equinor, international trade bodies, business and investment groups, local authorities , academic institutions and others.

According to Zero Carbon Humber's website, "Industrial powerhouses like the Yorkshire and the Humber region are an essential and valued part of the UK's economy but produce high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions: the Humber is the most carbon intensive industrial cluster in the country, emitting 12.4 million tpy. Developing carbon capture usage and storage (CCS or CCUS) technology and hydrogen (H2) starting in Yorkshire and the Humber would preserve jobs by enabling energy intensive industries to continue to operate and thrive even against a backdrop of ever tighter emissions targets linked to the UK's carbon budgets. Without CCUS, the Humber will face perhaps insurmountable challenges. By drawing on the existing skills and infrastructure in it and the wider region, the Humber can become the base for the UK's first zero carbon industrial cluster, helping to create a cleaner environment for future generations whilst delivering new jobs and export opportunities for British businesses." 2021. (Source: Zero Carbon Humber, Current News, 23 Oct., 2020) Contact: Zero Carbon Humber, www.zerocarbonhumber.co.uk

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

DNV GL,National Grid ESO
Date: 2020-10-19
DNV GL, the world's largest resource of independent energy experts and certification body, has been appointed by National Grid ESO as a lead partner in the Offshore Wind Coordination project in Great Britain.

The project will analyze a coordinated approach for offshore grid development and shape the future national strategy of Great Britain's offshore grid through feeding into the UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy's (UKBESS) Offshore transmission network review. The UK regulator OFGEM is also participating in the project.

The project will review and recommend ways to improve how offshore wind farms are connected to the onshore transmission network. To that end, DNV GL will assess: technology availability (HVDC equipment); analyze technical and regulatory barriers and solutions; study implications on power system security and stability; develop offshore and onshore grid designs and; conduct societal cost-benefit analysis of the offshore grid.

As offshore infrastructure is anticipated to be shared among multiple projects, it is projected that a harmonized development approach will result in optimal utilization of infrastructure, higher integration of offshore wind energy, reduction of carbon emissions and consumer bills, and provision of operational benefits to the onshore grid. Offshore wind continues to be a key electricity source for the UK government and supports its commitment for the country to be net zero by 2050. (Source: DNV GL. National Grid ESO, Oct., 2020) Contact: DNV GL, www.dnvgl.com; National Grid ESO, www.natopnalgrideso.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News OFGEM,  DNV GL,  Offshore Wind,  National Grid ESO ,  

hode Island Office of Energy Resources
Date: 2020-10-12
In Providence, the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) is reporting the launch of a new $1.5 million incentives pilot program for residential and commercial energy storage paired with renewable energy systems. Storage projects must also meet the technical requirements of National Grid's demand response program, called ConnectedSolutions, with the aim of ensuring all systems have the capabilities to participate in demand reductions during peak events and help reduce energy costs for Rhode Island electric customers.

The incentive program is being made available through Rhode Island Commerce's Renewable Energy Fund and supported thanks to the state's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Incentives will be made available in four rounds between September 2020 and May 2021.

Download program details HERE. (Source: RI Office of Energy Resources, PR, Contact: RI Office of Energy Resources, www.energy.ri.gov; Rhode Island Climate Change Program, www.climatechange.ri.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources ,  Renewable Energy,  Energy Storage,  RGGI,  

Omni Navitas Renewables
Date: 2020-09-11
In the Pine Tree State, the Cattaraugus County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) reports it is considering Boston-headquartered Omni Navitas Renewables LLC application to construct three 5-MW solar installations in the town of Otto and two installations in Machias.

The five solar facilities will cost roughly $8.5 million and $8.8 million each to construct for an estimated $43 million total. Power from the facilities would be purchased by National Grid. (Source: Cattaraugus County Industrial Development Agency , Olean Times Herald, 10 Sept., 2020) Contact: IDA, Corey Wiktor, Exec. Dir., 716-699-2005, www.cattcoida.com; Omni Navitas Renewables LLC, 844-966-7652, www.omni-navitas.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Omni Navitas Renewables,  Solar,  

Apple
Date: 2020-09-04
Apple reports it is investing in the world's largest onshore wind turbines as part of its commitment to becoming 100 pct carbon neutral by 2030.

The wind turbines, which will be located near the Danish town of Esbjerg and will power an Apple data center in the town of Viborg, are expected to generate 62 gigawatt hours per year -- sufficient to power almost 20,000 homes with the excess power feeding into the Danish national grid. (Source: Apple, PR, 9TO5MAC, 3 Sept., 2020)Contact: Apple, www.apple.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Apple,  Onshore Wind,  Apple Data Center,  

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

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

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

Rye Development,National Grid
Date: 2020-07-06
In Oregon, Boston-based Rye Development and Portland-based National Grid are reporting their $740 million Swan Lake Energy Storage closed-loop pumped-hydro energy storage project is moving forward with a 15-year property tax break recently approved by Klamath County Commissioners in mid-June.

The 394-watt project, once constructed, will span a total 300 acres and include two 65-acre reservoirs, to be located about 11 miles northeast of Klamath Falls. Construction is slated to get underway in December 2021 and anticipated to be finished in 2025, according to developers. (Source: Rye Development, Herald & News, 5 July, 2020) Contact: National Grid Ventures , Nate Sandvig, Dir. U.S. Strategic Growth , www.nationalgrid.com; Rye Development, www.ryedevelopment.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rye Development,  Energy Storage,  Pumped Hydro,  National Grid,  

Utica
Date: 2020-07-01
In the Empire State, the city of Utica reports preparation work is underway on a $11.2 million project to purchase 7,500 streetlights, brackets and poles from National Grid and replace the existing streetlights with energy efficient LED units.

The LED upgrade will also allow localized dimming options, security cameras and outage reporting. The takeover and upgrade to LEDs is expected the save the city $80,000 per month in energy costs. The project was originally slated for March but was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. (Source: City of Utica, Utica Observer-Dispatch, 29 June, 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficient Streetlight news,  LED news,  

UK National Grid
Date: 2020-06-15
In the UK, National Grid is reporting Britain has completed two months without burning coal to generate electricity. The last time coal was burned at any of Britain's four coal-fired power stations was April 10, 2020, according to the National Grid, the utility company.

The UK government has pledged to close all coal-powered energy generation sites by 2024. (Source: National Grid, UK Business Insider, 12 June, 2020) Contact: UK National Grid, www.nationalgrid.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Coal news,  UK National Grid news,  

Asian Development Bank
Date: 2020-06-12
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) reports the inking of a $17.7 million financing package with Spectra Solar Park Limited (SSPL) for a 35-MW solar PV plant in Bangladesh. The solar park is one of the first private sector solar plants in Bangladesh to be financed by multilateral institutions.

When fully on line, the plant will generate more than 50 GWh per year of electricity for the national grid and avoid 33,200 metric tpy of carbon dioxide emissions. The project aligns with the Government of Bangladesh's aim to reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels through renewable energy under Bangladesh Vision 2021. (Source: ADB, Dhaka Tribune, 10 June, 2020) Contact: Asia Development Bank, Takehiko Nakao, Pres. +63 2 632 4444, www.adb.org

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

National Grid,UNFCCC
Date: 2020-06-10
National Grid reports it is supporting the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) global "Race to Zero Campaign" and has to date cut its emission by 70 pct over 1990 levels.

To future meet its goals, National Grid is also: reducing SF6 emissions used in electrical equipment and swapping for alternatives; increasing energy efficiency; moving to renewable energy sources; researching the potential of hydrogen and renewable natural gas; and promoting similar actions among its supply chain and communities, targeting indirect emissions in particular.

In the US, National Grid it is working with customers to improve energy efficiency, investing in future energy systems through National Grid Partners, and supporting both solar and wind developments through Geronimo Energy. (Source: National Grid, PR, Energy Insider, 9 June, 2020) Contact: National Grid, John Pettigrew, CEO, www2.nationalgrid.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Grid,  Carbon Emission,  UNFCCC,  

Ofgem, Energy Networks Association
Date: 2020-05-29
In the UK, Britain's five gas networks -- Cadent, National Grid, NGN, SGN, and Wales & West Utilities have outlined a "Zero Carbon Commitment" and plan to spend £904 million on zero-carbon energy infrastructure and hydrogen deployment across the UK, subject to Ofgem funding approval which is expected in July.

If approved, the spending would focus on projects across Britain between 2021 and 2026, under the RIIO-2 price control. The gas networks claim that spending could help the UK use "blue hydrogen" developed from carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects, and "green hydrogen" from renewable electricity -- with the latter becoming cost-competitive by 2030.

Under the plan, £446 million would be spent on a new network infrastructure for the industrial use of hydrogen, including £391 million for carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) projects in the north-west of England, Aberdeenshire and the Isle of Grain. A further £264 million would be spent on projects to expand the capacity of local gas networks by connecting hydrogen and bio-methane generation projects and transport refueling stations. £150 million would be used to run large-scale trials for domestic use of hydrogen heating, cooking and transportation and how these are connected to the gas grid. £43 million would be spent to research blending more zero-carbon hydrogen with the natural gas currently used in the UK's gas networks.

According to the Energy Networks Association (ENA), £182 billion could be invested to make hydrogen cost-competitive with the current natural gas-based system and would reduce energy system costs to the UK public by £189 billion by 2050. (Source: ENA, edie, 28 May. 2020) Contact: Energy Networks Association, www.energynetworks.org; OFGEM, Chris Lock, +44 0207 901 7225, www.ofgem.gov.uk

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

First Solar,Geronimo Energy
Date: 2020-05-08
Tempe, Arizona-headquartered thin-film solar module maker First Solar Inc. is reporting a framework supply agreement with Minneapolis, Minnesota-based Geronimo Energy, a National Grid company, for 415 MW of its high-performance, eco-efficient Series 6 photovoltaic (PV) modules for delivery in 2022. 2022.

Geronimo Energy has more then 2.4 GW of wind and solar operational or under construction, and a multi-gigawatt development pipeline.

First Solar recently expanded its manufacturing capacity to meet the demand for Series 6 modules, starting production at its new module manufacturing facility in Lake Township, Ohio, in October 2019, making First Solat the largest solar manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere. (Source: First Solar, May, 2020) Contact: Geronimo Energy, Ben Adamich, (952) 988-9000, info@geronimoenergy.com, www.geronimoenergy.com; First Solar, Kathryn Arbeit, VP, Project Dev., David Brady, Inv. Rel., (602) 414-9315, dbrady@firstsolar.com, www.firstsolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News First Solar,  Solar,  Geronimo Energy ,  

Aura Green Energy, WWB Corp
Date: 2020-04-29
Japan's Aura Green Energy Co. is reporting a 50-50 joint venture with solar panel system provider WWB Corp. for the construction of a rice husk fueled power generation plant that incorporates solar panels near Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The biomass-solar hybrid power plant is expected to launch in 2021.

The ¥400 million ($3.7 million) project will have a total of 1,500 kilowatts. Any surplus power is to be sold to the national grid or a local power company as an IPP. The project is partly subsidized by the Japanese government, at about ¥110 million under the Joint Crediting Mechanism, a greenhouse gas emission reduction plan to exchange reduced carbon dioxide emissions. (Source: Aura Green Energy, Khmer Times, Mainichi News, 28 April, 2020) Contact: WWB Corp., +81 3 64332789, www.enfsolar.com/directory/panel/48599/wwb; Aura Green Energy, +81 17-752-0682, www.gec.jp

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aura Green Energy,  Solar,  WWB Corp,  

ACEEE
Date: 2020-02-24
According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy's (ACEEE) just released 2020 Utility Energy Efficiency Scorecard, the 52 largest U.S. electric utilities have dramatically increased their overall energy savings as they adopt innovative ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Utilities leading the way are National Grid Massachusetts and Eversource Massachusetts, which tied for first place for the second time, followed by San Diego Gas & Electric, Commonwealth Edison in Illinois, Baltimore Gas and Electric and Pacific Gas & Electric, in that order. Rounding out the top 10 are the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), DTE in Michigan, Portland General Electric, and Eversource CT in that order.

The scorecard notes that, as a group, the utilities boosted their annual energy savings by 20 pct since 2015, saving almost 20 TWh of electricity in 2018 from programs administered that year -- enough to power 1.8 million homes.

The report highlights the ways in which the utility landscape has transformed since 2015, the baseline for the 2017 scorecard. New technologies are emerging -- states, utilities, and other stakeholders are increasingly focused on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the important role of energy efficiency with more than 900 different efficiency programs in 2018, about 300 more than in 2015. Additionally, 32 utilities piloted new programs that involve smart thermostats, online marketplaces for energy-saving products, commercial energy efficiency financing, and integration of efficiency with other DERs such as demand response and storage.

While overall energy savings increased, this upward trend was not universal, and seven utilities saw their energy savings decrease by more than 20 pct since 2015.

The scorecard also found that, while there is increased focus on changing utility business models nationally, utilities are generally slow to change these models and are often reluctant to give customers access to energy usage data.

The scorecard, which received no utility funding, increases the availability of utility-sector energy efficiency data to enable benchmarking and help utilities strengthen their programs. ACEEE focuses on the 52 largest electric utilities by retail sales volume, including all 51 utilities from its 2017 Scorecard, plus Tampa Electric.

Download the 2020 Utility Energy Efficiency Scorecard at www.aceee.org/utility-scorecard. (Source: ACEEE, 21 Feb., 2020) Contact: ACEEE, Steven Nadel, Exec. Dir., www.aceee.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News ACEEE,  Energy Efficiency,  

IRENA
Date: 2020-01-27
IRENA is reporting the Kingdom of Jordan's investments in the renewable energy sector have reached more than $5 billion, placing the country of 10.4 million inhabitants among leading countries in providing a legislative environment and attracting investment in the sector.

According to the report, "2014 witnessed the kingdom's serious development of the solar and wind energy projects supplying clean energy to the national grid with a total capacity of approximately 1,500 megawatts, which account for some 20 pct of total electricity generated." (Source: IRENA, Jordan Weekly, 26 Jan., 2020) Contact: IRENA, www.irena.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News IRENA,  Jordan,  Renewable Energy,  

SSE Renewables
Date: 2020-01-20
SSE Renewables is reporting construction is underway on the world's largest offshore wind farm -- Dogger Bank Wind Farms -- a joint venture between SSE Renewables and Equinor -- near the coastal village of Ulrome, East Riding of Yorkshire, England.

Dogger Bank Wind Farms is comprised of three offshore wind farm sites in the North Sea, totaling 3.6 GW -- Creyke Beck A (1.2GW), Creyke Beck B (1.2GW) and Teesside A (1.2GW). The three wind farms will make use of the world's most powerful turbine, GE's Haliade-X, and will be capable of generating sufficient power for over 4.5 million homes each year.

Jones Bros Civil Engineering, one of the UK's leading civil engineering contractors, headquartered in Ruthin, North Wales, has been awarded the contract to install the onshore cable infrastructure for the Creyke Beck A and Creyke Beck B sites. The onshore infrastructure includes the installation of approximately 20 miles of electrical cables that will connect to the existing National Grid substation at Creyke Beck, Cottingham. The works will also involve completing bulk earthworks at the onshore HVDC convertor station locations in East Riding. (Source: SSE Renewables, PR, 17 Jan., 2020) Contact: SSE Plc, www.sse.co.uk; Equinor, Eldar Saetre, CEO, Pal Eitrheim, VP New Energy Solutions, www.equinor.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News SSE Renewables,  Equinor,  Offshore Wind,  

National Grid
Date: 2020-01-15
In the UK, National Grid reports it is launching a €500 million green bond issuance to finance its expanded efforts in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable energy management and climate related initiatives. The offer is the British utility firm's first foray into the green bonds market since publishing its Green Financing Framework in November last year.

Of the total €500 million issuance, 74 pct would be used for renewable energy, 13 pct for environmentally sustainable management, 11 pct for energy efficiency, and 2 pct for clean transportation and pollution prevention.

BNP Paribas is acting as the sole green structuring advisor and joint book runner. (Source: National Grid, Business Green, 14 Jan., 2019) Contact: UK National Grid, Kayte O'Neill, Head of Strategy and Regulation, www2.nationalgrid.com/uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Grid ,  Green Bond,  

EDF Renewables
Date: 2020-01-13
EDF Renewables reports the submission of its revised application for the proposed 5-MW, 22-turbine Garn Fach wind farm to be constructed east of Llanidloes in mid-Wales. The proposal replaces a previous unsuccessful application, involving 29 turbines producing 2.3 MW each.

EDF currently operates two wind farms in Wales with a maintenance amd operations base in Aberystwyth. Subject to upcoming public consultations, the company will apply for a link to the National Grid submit the full application for regulatory approvals and permitting before the end of 2020. (Source: EDF Renewables, PR, reve, 11 Jan., 2020) Contact: EDF Renewables, www.edf-re.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News EDF Renewables,  Wind,  

Gresham House Energy Storage Fund
Date: 2019-12-16
In the UK, Gresham House Energy Storage Fund is reporting the acquisition of two operational battery storage facilities totaling 50 MW. The £29.2 million($38.6 million) acquisitions were from VLC Energy, a joint venture between Low Carbon and VPI Immingham, a subsidiary of Vitol Group.

The acquisitions include a 40 MW facility in Kent and a 10 MW project in Cumbria that were commissioned in January 2018. The plants are two of the UK's largest energy storage facilities and their combined 50 MW capacity represents a quarter of National Grid's 2016 Enhanced Frequency Response (EFR) capacity. (Source: Gresham House Energy Storage Fund, PEI, 16 Dec., 2019) Contact: Gresham House Energy, www.greshamhouse.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Storage,  

Highview Power
Date: 2019-10-23
In the UK, London-based cryogenics specialist Highview Power is reporting plans to develop a 50MW/250MWh commercial cryogenic battery energy storage facility at a thermal power station in North England. The facility will be used by National Grid to provide market arbitrage, frequency management and stability, reserve and grid constraint management services.

The project is said to be the UK's first, and the largest of its kind in Europe, according to Highview. (Source: Highview Power, Smart Energy, 22 Oct., 2019) Contact: Highview Power, Javier Cavada, CEO, +44 (0) 203 350 1000, www.highviewpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Highview Power,  Energy Storage,  

Power Companies Climate Coalition
Date: 2019-09-18
Reuters is reporting New York-based Con Edison and eight other U.S. utilities -- the Power Companies Climate Coalition -- have filed a legal challenge to the Trump administration's Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) plan to cut carbon emissions from power plants. Trump's plan replaces the Obama administration's Clean Power Plan that would have cut power plant carbon emissions by more than a third from 2005 levels by 2030 by virtually eliminating coal-fired power production.

According to the filing, Trump's Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) rule undermines efforts already under way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by investing in renewable energy, electric vehicle infrastructure and energy efficiency and other clean technologies.

ACE allows states three years to devise their own plans to cut emissions mainly by encouraging coal-fired power plants to improve efficiency.

The coalition members include: Con Edison, Exelon Corp, National Grid, PG&E Corp, Public Service Enterprise Group Inc, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Seattle City Light, Sacramento Municipal Utility District and New York Power Authority. (Source: Con Edison, Guardian, Reuters, 16 Sept., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Power Companies Climate Coalition,  Obama Clean Power Plan,  Affordable Clean Energy Plan ,  

National Grid
Date: 2019-08-30
In the Bay State, the town of Harvard Select Board reports it has, om behalf of the community's roughly 6,600 residents and businesses, approved a switch to 100 pct wind generated electricity. To that end, the towns present electric power supplier National Grid will be replaced by an as yet identified company whose electricity is generated entirely by the wind, and at a lower cost per kilowatt hour than their current rate. More than 120 other Massachusetts communities have enacted similar Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) plans. The town's initiative is in accordance with the state's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard, which prescribes how much of a utility's electricity must come from renewable energy, but is cheaper than the 100 pct renewable plan.

National Grid will remain the distributor, providing the transmission lines and equipment by which electricity is delivered, regardless of source. (Source: Town of Harvard, Harvard Press, 29 Aug., 2019) Contact: Town of Harvard, www.harvard.ma.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  Wind,  National Grid,  

Amesbury Mass
Date: 2019-08-28
In the Bay State, the city of Amesbury reports the upgrading of its 1,250 "cobra head" streetlights to LEDs program is slated to get underway in early Sept. The Essex County city of 16,700 resident recently purchased all of its 1,250 "cobra head" streetlights from National Grid for $23,267 and has entered into a contract with Rhode Island-based Arden Engineering Constructors to begin converting the halogen/mercury vapor lights to light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

The $469,748 upgrade to LEDs is expected to cut the city's energy consumption by roughly 5 pct. The project received grants from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, the Massachusetts Department of Energy, and expects to receive rebates from National Grid. (Source: City of Amesbury, PR, Daily News, 27 Aug., 2019) Contact: City of Amesbury, Tom Barrasso, Director of Energy and Environmental Affairs, (978) 388-8110 x314, www.amesburyma.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News LED Light,  Energy Efficient Lighting,  

Mozambique,Gigawatt Global
Date: 2019-08-28
In Maputo, the capital city of of Mozambique, the government's director of Mineral Resources and Energy is reporting the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Anglican church in Niassa and Amsterdam, the Netherlands-based Gigawatt Global for the construction of $200 million photovoltaic power plant in Lichinga, the capital of Niassa province, in northern Mozambique.

The 50 MW project, which is expected break ground in September, will deliver its power production to the national grid. (Source: Construction Review Online, 27 Aug., 2019) Contact: Gigawatt Global, +31 20 262 3893, info@gigawattglobal.com, www.gigawattglobal.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  PV,  

China Solar Energy
Date: 2019-08-16
China has reportedly reached a "tipping point" where home-generated solar is cheaper than electricity generated from the national grid.

In March, a Chinese report noted that in 74 pct of cases, building new solar and wind capacity in a given area was cheaper than maintaining an existing coal-powered plant. Where levelized costs for wind reach $15 per MWh and $28 per MWh for solar, marginal costs for existing plants can jump as high as $104 per MWh.

China is aiming to consume 20 pct of its energy from non-fossil fuels by 2030. (Source: Xinhua, Inverse, 14 Aug., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News China Solar,  Solar,  

Neoen
Date: 2019-08-09
French renewables developer Neoen reports the South Australian governmentit has approved its planned 125 MW of wind generation, 150 MW solar PV generation and 130MW/400MWh of lithium-ion battery storage project that could also integrate up to 50 MW of on-site hydrogen production capability.

The solar project would incorporate 400,000‐500,000 solar panels mounted on single-axis trackers. The wind farm would utilize 26 turbines and 130 MW/400 MWh lithium-ion energy storage facility connected to the national grid. The energy storage facility will be located on a separate site and connected to the wind park and solar farm via underground transmission cables.

To date, Neoen has invested more than $1 billion in South Australia. (Source : Neoen Australia, PV Mag., 8 Aug., 2019) Contact: Neoen Australis, Garth Heron, Head of Development, +33 805 160 022, www.neoen.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neoen,  Renewable Energy,  PV,  Solar,  

UK National Grid
Date: 2019-08-09
According to the UK National Grid's latest Future Energy Scenarios (FES) report, Great Britain could reach net-zero carbon in its electricity grid by 2050 -- if "immediate action" is taken across all key energy technology and policy areas, such as increased energy efficiency and carbon capture and storage (CCS), and "at a significantly greater scale than assumed."

The report outlines five "credible pathways and scenarios for the future of energy" over the next 30 years. Two of the scenarios meet the country's old 2050 target of an 80 pct reduction in GHG emissions by 2050, and a new "standalone sensitivity analysis on how net-zero carbon emissions could potentially be achieved by 2050."

The report notes that achieve net-zero, British homes would need to use at least one-third less energy for heating by 2050 than today, while the electricity system would need to operate using only zero-carbon generation, and the power sector would need to deliver negative emissions, using technologies like biomass and carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS).

Report details HERE. (Source: UK National Grid, July, 2019) Contact: UK National Grid, Kayte O'Neill, Head of Strategy and Regulation, www2.nationalgrid.com/uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News UK National Grid,  Net-Zero Carbon,  CCUS,  CCS,  CO2,  

Mali,Solar
Date: 2019-07-29
The landlocked African nation of Mali reports it is set to begin construction of a 33 MW Segou solar photovoltaic power plant in southern Mali. The $53.7 million project, which will incorporate 104,764 ground mounted solar panels, is being developed with Norwegian assistance in the design, construction and operations of the plant and 2.8 km of a 33kV transmission line.

The project will be implemented by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under a 25-year Build, Own and Operate & Transfer (BOOT) Concession Agreement with the Government of Mali (GoM) and a 25-year Take-or-Pay Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Energie du Mali (EDM), the country's national utility. When fully operational, the project will be connected to Mali's national grid via the substation of the state-owned Mali Electricity Company (EDM). (Source: Mali Electricity Company, CR, 29 July, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

UK National Grid
Date: 2019-07-17
According to the UK National Grid's latest Future Energy Scenarios (FES) report, Great Britain could reach net-zero carbon in its electricity grid by 2050 -- if "immediate action" is taken across all key energy technology and policy areas, such as increased energy efficiency and carbon capture and storage (CCS), and "at a significantly greater scale than assumed."

The report outlines five "credible pathways and scenarios for the future of energy" over the next 30 years Two of the scenarios meet the country's old 2050 target of an 80 pct reduction in GHG emissions by 2050, and a new "standalone sensitivity analysis on how net-zero carbon emissions could potentially be achieved by 2050."

The report notes that achieve net-zero, British homes would need to use at least one-third less energy for heating by 2050 than today, while the electricity system would need to operate using only zero-carbon generation, and the power sector would need to deliver negative emissions, using technologies like biomass and carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS).

Report details HERE. (Source: UK National Grid, ReNew Economy, July, 2019) Contact: UK National Grid, Kayte O'Neill, Head of Strategy and Regulation, www2.nationalgrid.com/uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News UK National Grid,  Net-Zero Carbon,  

Energy Assets Utilities
Date: 2019-07-12
In the UK, Energy Assets Utilities (EAU) is reporting an unnamed biomethane plant near Pontefract in West Yorkshire is set to begin production and to meet the energy needs of around 6,000 homes, thanks to a 3km directionally drilled pipeline installed by EAU. The plant is due to come on stream in October.

The plant's four, 6,800 cubic-meter capacity digester tanks will create methane from chicken litter, food waste and other organic matter produced by local farms. The gas will be purified and fed into the national grid. The gas will also power the site's combined heat and power (CHP) unit, while the digester waste will be turned into fertiliser. (Source: Energy Assets Utilities, Bioenergy Insight, 11 July, 2019) Contact: Energy Assets Utilities, +44 0 1254 819 600, www.energyassets.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biogas,  Biomethane,  

National Grid UK
Date: 2019-06-24
In the UK, the National Grid is reporting 48 pct of the country's electricity is now being sourced from wind and solar, 47 pct from natural gas and coal with the remaining 5 pct being generated by biomass.

National Grid notes it is the first time since the Industrial Revolution that more electricity has been produced from zero and low-carbon sources rather than fossil fuels. It also notes the majority of energy imported from Europe this year has also come from carbon free sources, at an estimated 63 per cent. The bulk of this has come from nuclear power stations in France. Imported power coming from greener sources is only set to increase with the UK seeking to acquire more energy from hydropower generators in Norway. (Source: National Grid UK, BBC, The Parliamentary Review, 22 June, 2019)Contact: National Grid UK, John Pettigrew, CEO, ttps://twitter.com/nationalgriduk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  National Grid UK,  

Renewable Energy
Date: 2019-06-12
In the Bay State, the City of Melrose (pop. 28,367) reports it has rebooted the Community Energy Aggregation (CEA) program which is intended to provide price stability for National Grid customers in Melrose and to increase the percentage of renewable energy used by Melrose residents and businesses.

The CEA program, which was created under Massachusetts General Law, allows a municipality to arrange for electricity supply on behalf of consumers in a city or town. Melrose launched its first CEA program in January 2016 but the program was discontinued in June 2017 after an analysis of available supplier rates determined it was in the best interests of Melrose residents to terminate the program . Melrose residents who did not opt out will be enrolled in the Melrose Local Green option which provides customers with 5 pct more renewable energy at a slightly lower cost than current National Grid rates. The Melrose CEA Program supplier is Next Era Energy Services. (Source: Melrose Energy Commission, 11 June, 2019) Contact: City of Melrose, Melrose Energy Commission, Martha Grover, Energy Efficiency Manager, (781) 979-4195, mgrover@cityofmelrose.org, www.melrose-cea.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  Green Energy,  

Vidullanka PLC
Date: 2019-06-05
In Sri Lanka, Vidullanka PLC is reporting the commissioning and grid connection of its 3.3MW Dehiattakandiya Dendro power plant through its joint venture company, Vidul Biomass (Pvt.) Ltd. The facility will use only locally sourced , fast growing gliricidia -- aka "qickstick" -- as a feedstock.

The project is a Rs.1.45 billion investment jointly undertaken by Vidullanka and OC Energy Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd, a fully-owned subsidiary of the Japanese construction giant, Obayashi Corporation. The investment in Vidul Biomass (Pvt.) Limited is the first of its kind for the Japanese conglomerate in Sri Lanka. The power plant is expected to supply 22 GWh of annual energy to the national grid. (Source: Vidullanka PLC, Daily Mirror, 4 June, 2019) Contact: Vidullanka PLC , Chamil Silva, CEO, + 94 11 4760000 + 94 11 4760076, info@vidullanka.com, www.vidullanka.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biomass Energy,  

Aggreko,National Grid US
Date: 2019-06-05
Glasagow, Scotland-based Aggreko reports the installation of a 2MW/3.8MWh battery storage system for National Grid US in Pulaski, New York. The system, which is the first of its kind in National Grid's U.S. service area, will provide supplementary electricity load relief at peak demand times, lower customer energy costs and enhance grid stability in the upstate New York area.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has pledged to deploy 1,500 MW of energy storage by 2025. (Source: Aggreko, National Grid US, Smart Energy, 4 June, 2019) Contact: Aggreko, www.aggreko.com; National Grid US, Dean Seavers, Pres., www.nationalgridus.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Grid US,  Aggreko,  Energy Storage,  

Orsted,Revolution Wind Farm
Date: 2019-06-03
In Warwick, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC) reports its unanimous approval of the 20-year PPA under which National Grid will buy power from the 400-MW Revolution Wind Farm being developed in Rhode Island Sound by Danish-owned Orsted U.S. Offshore Wind and Boston-based energy company Eversource.

National Grid will pay 9.8 cents per kilowatt-hour as part of a deal that state energy officials estimate could save Rhode Island electric consumers $90 million over the life of the contract -- roughly 50 cents per month for the typical customer.

The Revolution project is expected to generate sufficient energy for approximately 270,000 homes when it comes online in 2023. (Source: Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, Fall River Herald, 29 May, 2019) Contact: Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, (401) 941-4500, www.ripuc.org; Orsted, Martin Neubert, Exex. VP and CEO of Offshore, Daniel Lerup, Inv. Relations, +45 99 55 97 22, danil@orsted.dk, www.orsted.dk; National Grid, www.nationalgridus.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Eversource,  Revolution Wind Farm,  Orsted,  Offshore Wind,