Birmingham Airport
Date: 2019-11-11
In the UK, Birmingham Airport is reporting plans to increase its use of onsite generated renewable energy and to cut its carbon emissions to net-zero by 2033. To that end, the airport intends toreview and revise its existing carbon management plan and develop a roadmap to set and prioritize actual carbon reduction objectives rather than carbon off-setting schemes, which it describes as "the least favourable option."

The airport has reduced its operations carbon emissions by a third since 2013, and emissions per passenger by over a half, despite growing passenger numbers by 40 pct. (Source: Birmingham Airport, Coventry Observer, 10 Nov., 2019) Contact: Birmingham Airport, Nick Barton, CEO, +44 871 222 0072, www.birminghamairport.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions,  

CNG Fuels
Date: 2019-11-08
In the UK, West Midlands-based bio-CNG fuel supplier CNG Fuels reports plans to become the UK's first supplier of carbon-neutral fuel sourced 100 pct from renewable biomethane for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). Bio-CNG is the lowest-carbon and most cost-effective alternative to diesel for HGVs, cutting vehicle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 85 pct and costs by 35-45 pct, according to the company.

CBG Fuels sources biomethane from food waste but is in the process of securing supplies of biomethane from manure to create a net-zero emissions fuel (on a well-to-wheel basis). The company aims to begin offering carbon-neutral biomethane from 2021 and is also developing a nationwide network of public access HGV refueling stations on major truck routes.

CNG Fuels began supplying RFTO-certified renewable biomethane three years ago. It is the UK's only dedicated provider of public access CNG refueling infrastructure. By spring 2020, it hopes to have six refueling stations in operation serving major trunk roads and cities, and capable of refueling up to 3,000 HGVs a day, according to the release. (Source: CNG Fuels, Bioenergy News, 6 Nov., 2019) Contact: CNG Fuels, . Philip Fjeld, CEO, (+44) 07971 541 000, {startlink]info@cngfuels.com], www.cngfuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CNG ,  Biomethane,  Methane,  Biofuel,  

DEFRA
Date: 2019-11-06
In the UK, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is launching a new £50 million Woodland Carbon Guarantee scheme to boost tree-planting rates to combat climate change. The scheme promises landowners and farmers a long-term income stream to encourage them to create new woodlands.

The government is committed to planting 11 million trees by 2022, as part of its effort to hit net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 to tackle climate change.

Under the new scheme, farmers can sell the carbon dioxide they capture by growing trees in the form of Woodland Carbon Units (verified carbon credits) to the government for a guaranteed price every five or 10 years up to 2055/56. (Source: DEFRA, Farmers Weekly, 5 Nov., 2019) Contact: Woodland Carbon Guarantee, www.gov.uk/guidance/woodland-carbon-guarantee; DEFRA, www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs

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

Coal,Climate Change,Nova Scotia Ministry of Environment
Date: 2019-11-04
Reporting from Halifax, the province of Nova Scotia nvironment Ministry reports the introduction of legislation aimed at cutting the province's greenhouse gas emissions by 53 pct below 2005 levels by 2030 as well as moving the province to a net-zero carbon footprint by 2050.

The new legislation updates the 12-year-old Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act which lays out new goals to fight climate change and grow the green economy. The legislation also requires the government to develop a province-wide plan with specific targets to reduce emissions by the end of next year. The legislation also calls for a government fund to support community projects aimed at climate change mitigation. (Source: Nova Scotia Ministry of Environment, Halifax Herald, Nov., 2019) Contact: Nova Scotia Ministry of Environment, Hon. Gordon Wilson, (902) 424-3600, www.novascotia.ca › nse

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

Vistra Energy
Date: 2019-10-30
Irving, Texas-headquartered electric power generator and provider Vistra Energy is reporting its long-term emissions reduction targets to achieve a greater than 50 pct reduction in CO2 equivalent emissions by 2030 as compared to a 2010 baseline and a greater than 80 pct reduction in CO2 equivalent emissions by 2050 as compared to a 2010 baseline. The company also aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions in the same timeframe assuming necessary advancements in technology and supportive market constructs and public policy, according to a release. Since 2010 Vistra's combined power generation portfolio has decreased CO2 equivalent emissions by more than 31 pct, removing nearly 170 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions from the atmosphere, according to the company which recently announced the anticipated retirement of approximately 2.5 GWs of coal assets in Illinois. The Illinois closure will further reduce the company's CO2 equivalents an additional 11 pct compared to a 2010 baseline.

In total, since 2010, Vistra and its predecessor companies have retired, or announced plans to retire, nearly 13 GW of fossil generation, including 14 coal generation plants and 3 natural gas generation plants.

Vistra notes it believes a national or regional, economy-wide carbon fee is the ideal public policy solution to appropriately incentivize investments in carbon-free and carbon-reducing technologies. (Source: Vistra, PR, 29 Oct., 2019) Contact: Vistra Energy, Curtis Morgan, CEO, www.vistraenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vistra Energy,  CO2,  Carbon Emissions,  Coal,  

ACI Europe, Airport Carbon Accreditation
Date: 2019-10-18
In Brussels, the European airport trade group ACI Europe reports European airports are delivering on their commitment to reach 100 carbon neutral airports by 2030 -- a major interim step towards their Net-Zero Emissions by 2050 vision & pledge. With the upgrade of six Lapland Airports to Level 3+ Neutrality of the global CO2 management standard, Airport Carbon Accreditation, there are now 50 carbon neutral airports in Europe.

Carbon neutrality is the highest level of carbon management performance under Airport Carbon Accreditation. In order to reach it, airports need to reduce CO2 emissions from those sources under their control as much as possible, and compensate for the remaining residual emissions with investment in high-quality carbon offsets. Carbon neutral airports at Level 3+ of the Airport Carbon Accreditation have to provide evidence of undertaking all the actions required by the programme prior to investing in carbon offsets. (Source: ACI Europe, Travel Daily News, 17 Oct., 2019) (Contact: ACI Europe, Olivier Jankovec, Director General, www.aci-europe.org; Airport Carbon Accreditation, www.airportcarbonaccreditation.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Airport Carbon Accreditation,  ACI Europe,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Offsets,  

Aroura Energy Research
Date: 2019-10-18
In a recently published report, Oxford, UK-headquartered Aurora Energy Research notes the UK will need more than 100GW of additional wind and solar capacity and 30GW of short duration energy storage to meet its net-zero grid system obligations.

The report presupposes capacity increases of more than 100GW of solar and wind, rising from 33GW today to more than 140GW in 2050, as well as 20GW of new nuclear and the inclusion of 3GW of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in the system.

In this scenario, there could be an 'excess' in renewable generation of 185TWh by 2050. Aurora suggests this could be used to produce hydrogen to decarbonise heating, transport or industry, however. To meet these necessary increases in storage and flexibility, Aurora has called on government, Ofgem, and the system operator to follow three principles: price the externalities, define the system needs and to let the market decide.

Aurora Energy Research is a consultancy which offers data-driven analytics on European and global energy markets to provide intelligence on the global energy transformation through forecasts, reports, forums and consultancy services. (Source: Aroura Energy Research, Current News UK, 16 Oct., 2019) Contact: Aurora Energy Research, Ana Barillas, Principal, Richard Howard, Research Director, +44 (0) 1865 952 700, oxfordoffice@auroraer.com, www.auroraer.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  

Carbon Emissions
Date: 2019-10-18
In the Old Dominion State, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors reports the adoption of a 45 pct reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030, rising to a "net-zero" emissions target by 2050.

The emissions reduction target is part of the county's Climate Action Plan aimed at reducing the county's carbon footprint. The full plan is expected to be completed sometime this winter. (Source: Albemarle County Board of Supervisors, CBS19 News, 17 Oct., 2019) Contact: Albemarle County Board of Supervisors , 434-296-5843, www.annmallekforsupervisor.com

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

San Antonio
Date: 2019-10-18
In the Lone Star State, the San Antonio City Council reports the adoption of a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan aimed at slashing the city's GHG emissions to net-zero by 2050.

San Antonio is the second major Texas city to adopt the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Austin passed a similar climate plan in 2014 and Houston and Dallas are working on their own climate planning efforts. (Source: City of San Antonio, Rivard Report, 17 Oct., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Emissions,  Climate Change,  CO2,  San Antonio,  

British Airways
Date: 2019-10-11
In the UK, British Airways (BA) reports thet beginning in Jan., 2020, it will offset the carbon emissions from all of its 75 daily domestic flights that collectively emit roughly 400,000 tpy of CO2 Emissions. BA notes that from next year its carbon emissions on international flights will be capped through the UN's offsetting scheme. BA's parent company IAG has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

In its offsetting, British Airways will invest in verified carbon reduction (VCR) projects worldwide, including renewable energy, rainforest protection and reforestation programmes. (Source: British Airways, Business Traveler, Oct., 2019) Contact: British Airways, www.ba.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News British Airways,  Aviation Emissions,  CO2,  Climate Change,  VCR,  

Center for American Progress
Date: 2019-10-11
The Washington-based Center for American Progress (CAP) has released a framework for how the U.S. could cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 43 pct below 2005 levels by 2030 -- consistent with the IPCC's special report on 1.5 degrees C of warming -- and set the U.S. on a path to net-zero emissions by 2050. To that end, the report calls for strong economy-wide targets; sets specific sector-by-sector benchmarks for success; estimates the emission reductions these would deliver; and discusses how to spur the rest of the world to follow along.

The report lays out how we can build the 100 pct Clean Future in two parts. First, it highlights successful climate action by governors and legislatures in nine states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico that have committed to 100 pct clean goals. CAP recommends building on that success at the national level by embracing three key pillars from some of those states: an ambitious 100 pct clean target; a worker-centered approach to ensure good paying, quality jobs; and a plan that is committed to reductions in legacy pollution that has disproportionately affected economically disadvantaged communities and communities of color.

The second part of the report considers emissions by sector and recommends achievable benchmarks to guide a sustained, concerted, and urgent policy program to achieve a 100 pct Clean Future by 2050:

At least 65 pct of electricity must come from clean sources by 2030 and 100 pct no later than 2050.

Car and SUV sales must reach 100 pct zero-emission by 2035, and vehicle miles traveled in urban areas must be reduced 18 pct below baseline.

All new buildings and appliances must be electric and highly efficient by 2035.

The nation must invest at least $120 billion in agriculture by 2030, more than doubling conservation, research, and renewable energy funding.

We must cut manufacturing emissions 15 pct by 2030 and set in motion a technology agenda for deep decarbonization.

We must protect 30 pct of America's lands and oceans by 2030 and deploy climate-smart agricultural practices on 100 million acres, building toward a gigaton of new carbon sequestration by 2050.

CAP offers policy recommendations to accomplish these benchmarks and deliver additional emission reductions throughout the report, including a combination of sector-specific deployment policies, direct federal spending, a broad price on carbon pollution, and mandatory emissions reductions in communities historically overburdened by pollution.

Download the A 100 Percent Clean Future report HERE.

Download CAP fact sheet HERE. (Source: Center for American Progress, PR, Oct., 2019) Contact: Center for Amercian Progress, Neera Tanden, CEO, Sam Hananel, 202-478-6327, www.americanprogress.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Center for American Progress,  Climate Change,  Clean Energy,  Carbon Emissions,  

Bee Enterprises
Date: 2019-10-11
Vancouver-based Bee Enterprises Ltd. is touting a new patent pending vacuum insulation invention that incorporates vacuum panels that are rechargeable, repairable, and cheap>

The insulation and sound proofing Panels can offer as much as R60 per inch, but can be dropped instantly to R 5. The panels do not require hazardous materials either in the manufacture or installation and can be made with off the shelf, environmentally friendly materials.

It is now possible to eliminate heating and cooling costs with sustainable green super insulation made locally in low capital cost factories, while protecting worker and homeowner health, according to a company release. (Source: Bee Enterprises, PR, 10 Oct., 2019) Contact: Bee Enterprises Ltd., Larry Pierce, (250) 335-2189, ca.linkedin.com .company . bee-enterprises-ltd

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Insulation,  

Schneider Electric
Date: 2019-10-07
Global energy management and automation specialist Schneider Electric reports 13 of its buildings globally are now "net-zero carbon" -- carbon neutral through a combination of its Energy Sustainability Services (ESS, )EcoStruxure and digital energy management solutions as enablers to operate with net- zero CO2 emissions.

Schneider Electric aims to drastically cut CO2 emissions from its operations, following a 1.5 degree C trajectory in line with Science-Based Targets. To that end, Schneider Electric reduced CO2 emissions by 130,000 tonnes, a 22 pct decrease (2018 compared to 2017) in just one year.

Schneider Electric has adopted the World Green Building Council's definition of "net-zero carbon buildings" as a building that is highly energy efficient and fully powered from on-site and/or off-site renewable energy sources, to achieve net-zero carbon emissions annually in operation.

Schneider Electric has delivered over 30 pct energy savings globally over the past 10 years since the start of its Schneider Energy Action energy efficiency program. In addition, as of October 2019, 45 pct of Schneider Electric's operations are powered with renewable electricity. (Source: Schneider Electric, PR, voltimum, 6 Oct., 2019)Contact: Schneider Electric, Kakali Ray, VP Sales, www.schneider-electric.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Renewable Energy,  Schneider Electric,  Net-Zero Carbon,  Carbon Emissions ,  

Ofgem
Date: 2019-10-04
In London, the UK energy regulator OFGEM is reporting the UK's progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions slowed in 2918, falling by 2.5 pct from 3 pct in 2017 -- the smallest reduction since 2012.

The country's GHG emissions have fallen by 42 pct since 1990, more than any other large advanced economy, due largely to the decarbonisation of electric power generation. Even so, the agency notes "significant" investment and policy intervention, particularly in renewables, would be needed to meet the UK's legal goals of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

OFGEM has made decarbonizing the economy a priority in its new corporate strategy and has promised to set out more detail on this early next year. "OFGEM's latest state of the market report shows the progress made so far to decarbonise the economy but much more needs to be done. We want the UK to remain a global leader in bringing down greenhouse gas emissions, and our major objective is to help the country rise to the challenge of cutting emissions to net-zero by 2050 at the lowest possible price to consumers", OFGEM chief economist Joe Perkins said. (Source: OFGEM, Isle of Wight County Press, 3 Oct., 2019)Contact: OFGEM, Chris Lock, +44 0207 901 7225, www.ofgem.gov.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News CO2,  Ofgem,  Carbon Emissions,  CO2,  Climate Change,  

World Green Building Council
Date: 2019-10-02
The World Green Building Council (WGBC) is reporting 63 new signatories have joined the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment and pledged to ensure their own portfolios of buildings operate at net-zero carbon by 2030. Additionally, some cities, states and regions have pledged to enact regulations to ensure all new buildings operate at net zero carbon from 2030 and all buildings, including existing, operate at net zero carbon by 2050.

The Commitment positions energy efficiency as a central component to achieving decarbonization across global building portfolios, in addition to generating and procuring renewable energy to meet reduced energy demand. The WGBC notes energy efficiency is the most cost effective, best practice approach to ensuring buildings are fit for purpose, future-proofed against climate impacts and, provide healthy and comfortable environments.

Six states and regions as well as 26 cities, including Oslo, Heidelberg and Melbourne. are among the new participants. (Source: World Green Building Council, Oct., 2019)Contact: World Green Building Council, James Drinkwater, www.worldgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Carbon,  World Green Building Council,  Net Zero Carbon,  

Carbon Emissions
Date: 2019-09-30
In Scotland, the port city of Glasgow (pop. 600,000 +-) on the River Clyde reports it is aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 -- seven years ahead of the city's initial net-zero emissions plan. The goal of carbon neutrality follows a key recommendation made by the city's Climate Emergency Working Group as part of efforts in tackling climate change.

In May, the city of Glasgow followed the city of Edinburgh in declaring a climate emergency. (Source: City of Glasgow, Clyde 1, 26 Sept., 2019) Contact: City of Glasgow, www.nrscotland.gov.uk/files/statistics/council-area-data-sheets/glasgow-city-council-profile.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Neutral,  Net-Zero Emissions,  Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  

Crown Estate,Offshore Wind
Date: 2019-09-23
Further to our 30th August report, the Crown Estate in the UK is reported to have launched its first major auction of offshore wind farm leases in a decade, offering four new sites -- Dogger Bank Bidding Area, Eastern Regions Bidding Area, South East Bidding Area and Northern Wales and the Irish Sea Bidding Area -- with the combined potential of 7-8.5 GW -- sufficient power for more than six million UK homes. The first seabed rights could be awarded in early 2021, Crown Estate said.

The UK plans to generate one-third of its electricity from wind power by 2030 as part of efforts to reach its 2050 net-zero carbon emissions target.

Crown Estate acts as manager of the seabed around England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Crown Estate Scotland is expected to launch an offshore wind seabed licensing round for sites off the Scottish coast in October. (Source: Crown Estate, Aljazeera, 19 Sept., 2019) Contact: The Crown Estate, Judith Everett, COO, +44 0 20 7851 5000, enquiries@thecrownestate.co.uk, www.thecrownestate.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Crown Estate,  Offshore Wind,  UK Offshore Wind,  

South African National Energy Development Institute,Global CCS Institute.
Date: 2019-09-20
The Sandon, South Africa-based South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) reports it has joined the Melbourne, Australia-headquartered Global CCS Institute. The move is intended to further the activities of the South African Centre for Carbon Capture and Storage (SACCCS), a division of SANEDI.

SANEDI's international membership includes governments, global corporations, private companies, research bodies and HGOs that are committed to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) as an integral part of a net-zero emissions future.

The South African government has pledged to cut its total CO2 emissions through increased energy efficiency, renewable energy, nuclear, cleaner mobility and CCS and others. (Source: SANEDI, ESI Africa, 18 Sept., 2019) Contact: SANDEI, Barry Bredenkamp, General Manager, +27 11 038 4300, www.sanedi.org.za; Global CCS Institute. +61 3 8620 7300, , www.globalccsinstitute.com

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

World Biogas Association
Date: 2019-09-20
Following on from the recent publication of its Global Potential of Biogas report, which demonstrates that biogas could rapidly reduce world GHG emissions by 12 pct, the World Biogas Association (WBA) has issued recommendations to world governments, financial institutions and other key decision makers to support the industry becoming a key player in meeting Paris Agreement commitments and developing a low carbon circular economy.

The WBA emphasizes the need to move away from fossil fuels and invest in the infrastructure and incentives required to build a powerful anaerobic digestion and biogas industry that will provide a stable and flexible source of clean energy, as well as bio-fertilisers for agriculture and a potent waste management and sanitation solution. The key recommendations focus around:

National pledges to reduce GHG emissions, including the removal of fossil fuel subsidies, through their Paris Agreement Nationally Determined Commitments, energy plans, net-zero targets by 2050 and increases in renewable energy production and consumption over the next decade.

The inclusion of AD into these pledges and at the core of circular economy strategies, with targets set for the production of biogas, AD included in all incentive policies and AD nominated as the preferred method of treatment for all biodegradable wastes.

Policies to increase biodegradable wastes capture, including the provision by local governments of separate food waste collections in both urban centers and rural areas, and mandatory food waste collection and treatment for businesses of a certain size, combined with increased AD capacity to process the new waste stream.

The development of a robust infrastructure to enable the collection and processing of feedstock in large communities as well as remote rural areas, its treatment through both large and small scale facilities, and distribution through a network of refueling points for biomethane as a transport fuel and injection points for gas going into the grid.

The management of digestate and implementation of regulations and standards for its safe trading and use.

Measures to ensure land is managed with due diligence to environmental impact and energy crops are integrated into production in the most sustainable way.

The World Biogas Association is the global trade association for the biogas, landfill gas and anaerobic digestion (AD) sectors, dedicated to facilitating the adoption of biogas globally. It believes that AD and biogas technologies provide multifaceted opportunities to produce clean, renewable energy while resolving global issues related to development, public health and economic growth.

Download the Global Potential of Biogas report HERE. (Source: World Biogas Association, PR, 19 Sept., 2019) Contact: World Biogas Association, David Newman, Pres., www.worldbiogasassociation.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News World Biogas Association,  Biogas,  Methane,  

Oil & Gas Technology Center
Date: 2019-09-04
In the UK, the Aberdeen-based Oil & Gas Technology Center (OGTC) , in partnership with industry, reports it will create a new Net-Zero Solution Center to accelerate the development and deployment of technologies to de-carbonize offshore operations and develop the UKCS as the first net-zero oil and gas basin globally, supporting the industry's Roadmap 2035.

The Center will focus on developing technologies to reduce operational carbon emissions, working with other parts of the energy sector to create integrated solutions and re-purposing infrastructure to accelerate carbon capture usage and storage, hydrogen production and gas-to-wire capacity.

BP, Shell, Wood, Chrysaor, Aker Solutions, INEOS, CNOOC International, Total, Siemens and Equinor are among the project's backers. (Source: Offshore Engineering, OGUK, PR, 3 Sept., 2019) Contact: Oil & Gas Technology Center, Colette Cohen, CEO, +44 1224 063200, www.theogtc.com

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

Green Building Council South Africa
Date: 2019-08-30
The University of Cape Town (UCT) Properties and Services Department is touting its sustainability plan aimed at reducing reduce energy consumption and achieving close to net-zero carbon emissions not later than 2050. The UCT sustainability plan includes:

extensive energy audits of building energy consumption;

intensified energy metering and monitoring;

improved, automated building management systems

energy efficient lighting and heating, ventilation and air conditioning installations and retrofits;

"green" energy efficiency certification on new buildings;

replacing diesel powered shuttle transportation with electric buses;

solar photovoltaic (PV) installations on rooftops and parking areas -- a feasibility study is presently under way to determine which buildings and locations are most suitable for solar PV installations.

Over the past 10 years UCT has converted electric hot water boilers in residences to energy-efficient heat pumps, conducted energy audits in some buildings and retrofitted energy-efficient lighting fixtures in one residence.

In 2012 the university committed to green designs for all new buildings -- independently certified by the Green Building Council South Africa.(Source: Univ. of Cape Town, 27 Aug., 2019) Contact: University of Cape Town, www.uct.ac.za; Green Building Council South Africa, +27 86 104 2272, www.gbcsa.org.za

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Building,  Energy Efficiency,  

Science and Technology Select Committee
Date: 2019-08-26
In London, the UK the government's Science and Technology Select Committee is warning country will miss its legally binding net-zero 2050 target with "dire consequences" unless climate policies are rapidly implemented.

In its warning, the Committee notes Governments policies and efforts to reduce emissions have been undermined by "unacceptable" grant funding cutbacks and policies to improve residential and other building energy efficiency. Hitting the target requires efforts to cut carbon emissions from heating systems, improve home energy efficiency, tackle vehicle pollution, support onshore wind and solar power and sustain nuclear power without growing the industry, the report said.

The committee's report calls government to advance a previous;y imposed ban on the sale of new conventional cars and vans planned for 2040 to 2035 at the latest. It also called for moves to tackle emissions from car manufacturing, and urged greater efforts to reduce vehicle ownership, and boost public transport and car sharing, as well as walking and cycling. The report also said the government must commit now to large-scale trials of low carbon heating technology such as heat pumps, and replacing gas with hydrogen. A policy to make new homes "zero carbon", which was scrapped before it was implemented in 2016, should be urgently reintroduced, and incentives are needed to encourage people to make energy efficiency improvements, it said.

The government should also publish an easily accessible central guide for members of the public explaining what measures individuals and households can take to support the UK's emissions-cutting. (Source: UK Science and Technology Select Committee, The Independent, 22 Aug., 2019) Contact: UK Science and Technology Select Committee, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science_and_Technology_Select_Committee

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

Propane Education & Research Council
Date: 2019-08-26
A recent survey by the Propane Education & Research Council of 2,200 U.S. adults planning to purchase, remodel or build a home, found most have a favorable opinion of Net-Zero Energy (NZE) homes. Of those surveyed, 83 pct of purchasers would consider an NZE home even if it meant paying more -- cost savings and environmental benefits of NZE homes being the prime motivation.

Of the survey respondents planning to remodel their existing homes, 81 pct said they'd be willing to pay 20 pct to 30 pct more on the cost of their projects to achieve NZE.

Construction professionals estimate, on average, that it would cost 36 pct more for a home to meet ZNE standards compared to a standard home. (Source: Propane Education & Research Council, Realty Business News, 25 Aug., 2019) Contact: Propane Education & Research Council, www.propane.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Energy,  Energy Conservation,  Energy Efficiency,  

Green New Deal,New York State
Date: 2019-08-16
New York State has adopted Gov. Andrew Cuomo's "Green New Deal of New York" -- the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) -- an aggressive carbon-emissions-reduction plan for the Empire State to derive 100 pct of its electricity from zero-carbon emissions sources by 2040.

The CLCPA also commits New York to net-zero carbon emissions, economy-wide, by 2050, with an interim target of slashing emissions 40 pct below the state's 1990 emission levels by 2030. The Act also requires the state and industry to reduce their emissions by 85 pct , with the remaining 15 percent of the net-zero goal coming from carbon offsets.

For oversight and administration, the act will create a 22 member commission a various advisory panels to deal with buildings and construction, industry, land use and zoning, local governments, transportation, and more. These advisory panels are required to consult with a climate justice working group composed of representatives from low-income communities and environmental justice groups. (Source: Office of Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), Heartland Institute, 15 Aug., 2019) Contact: Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), www.governor.ny.gov, www.governor.ny.gov/content/governor-contact-form

More Low-Carbon Energy News Andrew Cuomo,  Green New Deal,  Climate Change,  Renewable Energy,  

Bleutech Park Properties,
Date: 2019-08-12
In Nevada, Bleutech Park Properties, Inc. is reporting a planned December 2019 ground breaking date for its $7.5 billion Bleutech Park Las Vegas prject, the world's first city to boast a digital revolution in motion, redefining the infrastructure industry sector.

The six year project will be constructed of net-zero buildings within an own insular mini-city, featuring automated multi-functional designs, renewable energies from solar/wind/water/kinetic, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics and self-healing concrete structures.

The project's mixed-use environment will feature workforce housing, offices, retail space, ultra-luxury residential, hotel and entertainment. The project also expects to create as many as 25,000 jobs and attracting manufacturing to the Las Vegas Valley area. (Source: Bleutech Park Website Aug., 2019) Contact: Bluetech Park. www.bleutechpark.com

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,  

Aldersgate Group
Date: 2019-08-02
In London, only two weeks after moving into No.10 Downing Street, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is being lobbied by a green policy manifesto from the Aldersgate Group. The manifesto -- Building a Competitive, Net-Zero Emissions and Climate-Ready Economy -- outlines various measures Aldergate Group members believe will accelerate the UK's decarbonisation progress while boosting environmental protections and growing the economy.

The Aldersgate Group's recommendations include: binding energy efficiency targets; fiscal incentives for energy efficient buildings; tightening of emission standards for road transport; and an outline of the powers and limitations of the nation's new post-Brexit watchdog for green standards, and others.

Earlier this week, Johnson pledged to place climate change at the "absolute core" of his Government's actions during his first appearance in the House of Commons as Prime Minister.

The Aldersgate Group currently represents more than 50 organisations from across the private, public and non-profit spaces, including Orsted, Siemens, Willmott Dixon and Cemex.

Download the Aldersgate Building a Competitive, Net-Zero Emissions and Climate-Ready Economy manifest HERE. (Source: Aldersgate Group, edie newsroom, 1 August 2019) Contact: Aldersgate Group, Nick Molho, Exec. Dir., info@aldersgategroup.org.uk, +44 (0) 20 7841 8966, www.aldersgategroup.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aldersgate Group,  Net-Zero Emissions,  Climate Change,  Boris Johnson,  

Low-Carbon Energy, UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS)
Date: 2019-07-29
In London, the UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is touting renewable and nuclear energy fund proposals it says are critically important in reaching net-zero emissions. The proposals explore the use of the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) finance approach to attract significant private investment in major infrastructure projects like the Thames Tideway Tunnel which used the RAB model to reduce the cost of financing and risk for developers while limiting the long term impact on consumer energy costs.

The RAB funding model could also be used to reduce the costs of carbon dioxide storage. A funding model similar to the Contracts for Difference scheme, which provides developers with a set price for low-carbon electricity will be explored alongside other options to deliver investment in Carbon Capture Usage and Storage (CCUS) power projects while cutting emissions. The government aims to roll out the technology at scale by the 2030s, subject to costs coming down, as part of its commitment to become a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.

To that end, the government has committed £170 million towards deploying technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen networks in industrial clusters to support establishment of the world's first net-zero industrial cluster by 2040. Additionally, industry will consider investing up to £261 million in new technologies to reduce emissions. Plans have also been announced to make it easier to recycle oil and gas infrastructure for use in CCUS projects, including using some of the 20,000 km of pipelines and depleted oil and gas reservoirs to transport and store CO2. Great Britain is aiming to completely phase out coal by 2025. (Source: UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) , PR, 23 July, 2019) Contact: BEIS, +44 0 20 7215 5000, enquiries@beis.gov.uk, www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-business-energy-and-industrial-strategy

More Low-Carbon Energy News CCUS,  CCS,  CO2,  Carbon Dioxide,  Net-Zero Emissions,  BEIS,  

PSEG
Date: 2019-07-26
In the Garden State, Newark-based Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG), which claims one of the lowest carbon emissions rates among the largest U.S. power producers, reports it expects to cut its power fleet's carbon emissions by 80 pct by 2046, from 2005 levels, and attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, assuming advances in technology and public policy. PSEG also notes it has no plans to build or acquire new fossil-fueled power plants and is committed to reporting annually on sustainability and climate using the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework, starting in 2020.

PSEG claims a long history of addressing climate change as an embedded part of its business and culture including:

PSEG's emission rate in 2017 was 461 lb/MWh, below the International Energy Agency's (IEA) "Beyond 2C Scenario" 2030 projected CO2 emission rate for the U.S. electric sector of 510 lb/MWh. PSEG's projected emission rate upon the completion of our coal exit strategy will be 334 lb/MWh.

PSEG's Salem and Hope Creek nuclear generating plants supply more than 90 pct of the Garden State's emissions-free power.

By 2021, PSEG will have retired or exited through sales more than 2,400 MW of coal-fired generation, thus nearing completion of its coal exit strategy. In June 2019, PSEG announced an agreement to sell its interest in the Keystone and Conemaugh coal plants in western Pennsylvania.

PSE&G energy efficiency programs are currently saving participants $242 million a year in energy costs and avoided emissions equal to removing 37,000 cars from the road for one year.

Looking forward, PSE&G's $2.5 billion Clean Energy Future investment proposal for 22 energy efficiency programs would allow participating customers to save $5.9 billion on their bills by helping them use less energy and reduce carbon emissions.

PSEG is also a leading developer of solar energy resources having invested approximately $1.8 billion in 674 MW of solar, including 262 MW in New Jersey and 412 MW in 13 other states. PSEG also supports New Jersey's efforts to develop offshore wind facilities.

PSEG is a publicly traded diversified energy company with approximately 13,000 employees. Headquartered in with operating subsidiaries -- Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G), PSEG Power and PSEG Long Island. (Source: PSEG, PR, 25 July, 2019) Contact: PSEG, Ralph Izzo, Pres., CEO, www.corporate.pseg.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News PSEG,  Carbon Emissions ,  

Canadian Natural Resources
Date: 2019-07-26
Calgary, Alberta-based Canadian Natural Resources, Canada's largest oil and gas producer reports it is aiming to achieve zero emissions in its oil sand operation by procuring innovating technologies, but has not indicated when or how it intended to achieve its goal.

The company also noted it was one of the biggest carbon capture players in the market ranking fifth when it comes to carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) capacity. The also noted it cut its GHG emissions by 20 pct in the year 2014 and has stopped venting at primary heavy oil operations in Alberta by 72 pctt since 2014. (Source: Canadian Natural Resources, OilPrice, Industry Journal Pro, CBC News, 25 July, 2019) Contact: Canadian Natural Resources, Steve Laut, https://twitter.com, www.cnrl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHG Emissions,  Net-Zero Carbon Emissions,  CO2,  CCS,  

Heathrow
Date: 2019-07-24
Britain's busiest airport, Heathrow has urged the government to invest some of the nearly £4 billion raised from Air Passenger Duty (APD) every year to scale up the production of cleaner, more sustainable fuels -- specifically biofuels and other sustainable energy sources.

Heathrow reports it has invested over £100 million on sustainability initiatives over the past six years aiming to operate "carbon neutral airport infrastructure” from 2020. "We support the government's goal to make the UK economy net-zero carbon by 2050, but we believe there is further scope for the government to help the aviation industry move faster by working with other governments to prioritize sustainable fuels for aviation, which is the hardest sector to decarbonize, and set common and progressive targets for the percentage of aviation fuel that must be from sustainable sources," according to a Heathrow update. (Source: Heathrow Airport, ttg media, 23 July, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aviation Biofuel,  Sustainable Fuel,  

UN Global Compact,Science Based Targets initiative
Date: 2019-07-24
In a joint press release from the United Nations Global Compact, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and the We Mean Business have committed themselves to more ambitious climate targets aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degree C above pre-industrial levels and reaching net-zero emissions by no later than 2050. The joint commitment from the coalition 28 companies with a total market capitalization of $1.3 trillion heeds the most recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which warned of catastrophic consequences should global warming exceed 1.5 degree C.

Participating companies include: Acciona, AstraZeneca, Banka BioLoo, BT, Dalmia Cement Ltd., Eco-Steel Africa Ltd., Enel, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Iberdrola, KLP, Levi Strauss & Co., Mahindra Group, Natura &Co, Novozymes, Royal DSM, SAP, Signify, Singtel, Telefonica, Telia, Unilever, Vodafone Group PLC and Zurich Insurance, amongst others, collectively representing over one million employees from 17 sectors and more than 16 countries. (Source: UN Global Compact, PR, COMTEX, 23 July, 2019) Contact: UN Global Compact, (212) 907-1301, www.unglobalcompact.org; Science Based Targets Initiative, +44 (0) 20 3818 3916, Sarah.Savage@cdp.net, www.sciencebasedtargets.org; We Mean Business Coalition, Kristen King, (904) 608- 1745 kristen@wemeanbusinesscoalition.org www.wemeanbusinesscoaltion.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Science Based Targets initiative,  UN Global Compact,  Carbon Emissions,  Climate Change,  

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,  

Entegrity
Date: 2019-07-15
In Little Rock, Entegrity -- f.k.a. Viridian -- is reporting its recent $500,000 office building renovation saves or creates enough power to balance out all of its energy use.

With the energy efficient upgrades, the building has electrochromatic windows that tint at the command of a Wi-Fi signal; composting and recycling; high-control HVAC systems; a rooftop solar array; and all-LED lighting.

The building is "one of the only net-zero buildings in the state. and the second building in the world to get LEED Zero certification, and the first in the United States," according to Entigrity. (Source: Entegrity, USGBC, Arkansas Business, July, 2019)Contact: Entegrity Partners, Rob Guthrie, Bus. Dev., (800) 700-1414, info@entegritypartners.com, www.entegritypartners.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Entegrity Energy,  Energy Efficiency,  LED Light,  

Schneider Electric
Date: 2019-07-15
In the UK, Telford-based Schneider Electric UK his reporting the launch of its 'Rethink Energy" initiative aimed at changing business, consumer and government attitudes to energy waste and help combat climate change.

A Schneider Electric commissioned study of 2,000 UK adults and over 600 UK businesses revealed that just 10 pct of consumers want to do more to curb their current energy use, while 74 pct believe they already do enough. 68 pct of business leaders reported their organizations wasted energy, particularly in the form of inefficient building and office space, while 43 pct of corporate CEOs said their organization had not implemented any measures aimed at tackling these inefficiencies in 2018.

The 'Rethink Energy' initiative is focused on: the role for energy in achieving a zero-carbon economy by 2050; £1 trillion price tag -- cost or opportunity; and what will drive change in the UK's demand for energy.

"HM Treasury recently suggested it could cost the UK around £1 trillion to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, but it's not about cost, it's about huge savings. Sustainability is a cost that pays for itself and technology and innovation will be key to meeting the energy efficiency challenge," according Mike Hughes, Zone President, Schneider Electric UK & Ireland (Source: Schneider Electric UK, PR, voltimum, 13 July, 2019) Contact: Schneider Electric Ltd UK, +44 0870 608 8608, gb-customerservices@gb.schneider-electric.com , www.schneider-electric.co.uk/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Schneider Electric,  Energy Efficiency,  Net-Zero Carbon,  Climate Change ,  

University of Oxford,
Date: 2019-07-12
In the UK, according to Myles Allen, a professor of Climate Dynamics at the University of Oxford, farming can become completely "climate neutral" if agricultural methane emissions are reduced by just 20 pct over the next 30 years.

Prof. Allen claims UK farmers have been cutting methane emissions by 10 pct every 30 years, through measures such as better slurry storage and application, and didn't need to reach the Government's net-zero by 2050 target to stop, or actually reverse, warming caused by agriculture. This is because when methane is released into the atmosphere, it has a much stronger warming impact than the same amount of CO2, but unlike CO2 or nitrous oxide, which have a constant warming effect even when emissions fall to zero, cutting the amount of methane -- which is far more potent the CO2 -- emitted will actually cause global cooling, Prof. Allen suggests.

Prof Allen contends that cutting agricultural methane emissions to zero over the next 35 years would cause global cooling, taking the industry's contribution to global warming back to the level it was in the 1960s. (Source: University of Oxford, Farmers Guardian, 11 July, 2019) Contact: University of Oxford, Prof. Myles Allen, +44 (0)1865 275895. myles.allen@ouce.ox.ac.uk, www.eci.ox.ac.uk/people/mallen.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News Methane,  Climate Change,  Emissions,  Global Warming,  

Clean New Deal,Cuomo
Date: 2019-07-10
In Albany, the New York State legislature is reporting the passage of SB 6599/AB 8429, the Climate Leadership And Community Protection Act (CCPA) requiring the Empire State to source 100 pct carbon-free electricity by the year 2040 and reach net-zero carbon emissions across the state's entire economy by 2050.

Under the CCPA, electric utilities will be forced to purchase around 9,000-megawatts of clean energy by 2035. The capital development and construction work related to converting the existing capacity to wind, solar and other clean and renewable sources will fall under the regulatory purview of the act which will make it illegal for hydroelectric power to receive subsidies because wind and energy will not be able to compete if long-term savings and reliability are taken into account..

"The [bill] will virtually eliminate New York's greenhouse gasses, foster renewable energy production, create green jobs, invest in lower-income communities, and protect our planet," according to the bill's sponsor and chair of the NY Senate Environmental Conservation Committee Sen. Todd Kaminsky (D). Both chambers of the state Legislature passed CCPA and it now awaits the expected signature of Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo. (Source: Various Media, Post Journal, 7 July, 2019) Contact: Office of NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo, www.governor.ny.gov, https://twitter.com/NYGovCuomo

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  Clean New Deal,  Renewable Energy,  Cuomo,  

Minister of State for Energy and Clean Growth
Date: 2019-07-08
In London, the UK Minister of State for Energy and Clean Growth, Hon. Chris Skidmore, is reporting the release of the government's Green Finance Strategy, outlining how the finance sector and better climate disclosure from publicly-listed corporations can drive progress towards wider action on climate change and the push towards net-zero emissions by the year 2050.

The strategy features investment and funding increases into green projects, infrastructures and homes and is built on findings from the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). The strategy calls corporations and asset owners to disclose climate risk and impact data by 2022 and to work with regulators as to whether this becomes a mandatory requirement.

In addition, a £5 million Green Home Finance Fund has been established for green finance education, home energy efficiency grants, green mortgages and other green finance mechanisms. An additional £5.8 billion has been set aside for international climate finance to encourage other nations to act on climate collaboratively.

More than 780 organizations reportedly support of the TCFD, including the world's largest banks, asset managers and pension funds, responsible for assets of $118trn, highlighting the appetite for green finance. (Source: UK Minister of State for Energy and Clean Growth, edie News, 2 July, 2019) Contact: Minister of State for Energy and Clean Growth, UK Energy and Clean Growth Minister, Chris Skidmore, www.gov.uk/government/people/chris-skidmore

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

Airports Council International Europe
Date: 2019-07-01
Airports Council International Europe (ACIE), which represents over 500 European airports, is reporting passage of a resolution committing the industry to becoming net-zero for carbon emissions under its control by 2050 at the latest , without resorting to carbon offsets. In addition, 194 non-ACIE member airports have individually committed to the same goal, according to ACI Europe.

In 2018, Europe's airports handled a total of 2.34 billion passengers. The new net-zero commitment is expected to eliminate a total of 3.46 million tpy of CO2 emissions as of 2050, the organization says. In 2016 the industry committed to reaching 100 carbon-neutral airports by 2030 (Source: ACIE, Energy Manager, June 28, 2019 ) Contact: ACIE, www.aci-europe.org

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

Tata Chemical
Date: 2019-06-28
Tata Chemicals Europe (TCE) plans to construct Britain's first industrial-scale carbon capture and utilization (CCU) demonstration plant to trap emissions for use in sodium carbonate manufacturing. The £16.7 million ($21.2 million) project will be located at Tata's Northwich industrial site in Cheshire, England and should start operations in 2021, according to a Reuters report.

Tata's CCU plant will capture, purify and liquefy as much as 40,000 tpy of CO2 from the flue gases of its 96-mw gas-fired combined heat and power plant. The gas will be used in sodium bicarbonate manufacturing. The operation is expected to cut Tata's carbon emissions by 11 pct.

The UK aims to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. (Source: Tata Chemicals Europe, Reuters, 26 June., 2019) Contact: Tata Chemicals Europe, +44 0 1606 724000, www.tatachemicalseurope.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tata Chemical,  Carbon Capture,  CCS,  

Armstrong Fluid Technology
Date: 2019-06-28
Toronto, Ontario-based international HVAC specialist Armstrong Fluid Technology reports it has signed on to the World Green Building Council Net-Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment positioning energy efficiency as a central component to achieving decarbonization across global portfolios. Signatories to the Net-Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment pledge to reach net-zero carbon operating emissions within their portfolios by 2030.

To meet this commitment, Armstrong will: implement energy efficiency measures to lower electricity and fossil fuel consumption; generate renewable energy on-site; and procure renewable generated electricity and carbon offsets.

The WGBC pledge calls for cities, states and regions to require all new buildings to operate at net-zero carbon from 2030, and all buildings, including existing buildings, operate at net-zero carbon by 2050. In addition to generating and obtaining renewable energy to meet reduced energy demand, the Commitment positions energy efficiency as a central component to achieving decarbonization. (Source: Armstrong Fluid Technology, PR, The News, 27 June, 2019) Contact: Armstrong Fluid Technology, Charles Armstrong, CEO, (416) 755-2291, info@armstrongfluidtechnology.com, www.armstrongfluidtechnology.com; World Green Building Council, Cristina Gamboa, CEO, World Green Building Council www.worldgbc.org/advancing-net-zero-status-report-2019

More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Carbon,  Energy Efficiency,  World Green Building Council,  

Building Controls Industry Association
Date: 2019-06-26
In the UK, the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) is reporting the launch of its One Small Change Campaign to drive a shift towards lower energy demand in buildings at an individual, as well as organizational level.

BCIA is seeking to encourage initiatives that increase energy efficiency; bring building performance in line the UK government's recent commitments to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050; and cut building energy waste. To that end, BCIA is calling on the buildings control industry to share knowledge on different means of saving energy in buildings. (Source: Building Controls Industry Association, PR, 24 June, 2019) Contact: Building Controls Industry Association, Jon Belfield, CEO, +44 0 118 940 3416 www.bcia.co.uk

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

Net-Zero Energy
Date: 2019-06-24
The Eastern Mediterranean island country of Cyprus reports the incorporation of EU Directive -- 2010/31 / EU -- which aims to improve the energy performance of buildings while taking into account the external climatic conditions and indoor climate requirements.

Under the new legislation, photovoltaic (PV) systems will be mandatory in homes, business and government buildings to hlp Cyprus meet energy consumption and near zero-energy goals.

Buildings constructed after 31 December 2018 are required to hold an Energy Performance Certificate classifying them as Energy efficiency class B. This means that buildings will have to be built with materials insulating the interior and generate part of their energy needs from renewable energy sources. Housing units built after the end of 2018 should be producing up to 25 pct, blocks of flats 3 pct and other building types 7 pct -- rising in 2020 when all buildings must be classified as class A. This entails high-performance thermal insulation (walls, ceilings, windows, exposed floors), very low heating requirements, and have a primary annual energy consumption of under 100 kWh per m2. (Source: Cyprus Energy Ministry, Financial Mirror, June, 2019) Contact: Cyprus Energy Ministry, +357 22 867100, www.mcit.gov.cy

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

Committee on Climate Change
Date: 2019-06-21
In London, the UK's top climate change advisory body, The Committee on Climate Change's (CCC) May report calls for "clear" climate change leadership across all government departments and agencies with delivery in partnership with businesses and communities.

According to the report, emissions reductions "must be vital to the whole of government and to every level of government in the UK. Policies must be fully funded and implemented across all sectors of the economy to drive the necessary innovation, market development and consumer take-up of low-carbon technologies, and to positively influence societal change."

Download the CCC Net Zero-- The UK's Contribution to Stopping Global Warming report HERE. (Source: The Committee on Climate Change, May, 2019) Contact: Committee on Climate Change, www.theccc.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News TheCCC,  Committee on Climate Change,  Climate Change,  

European Union
Date: 2019-06-19
Reuters is reporting U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on the European Union to aim for a 55 pct cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 -- in excess of the 28 member trading bloc's present 40 pct reduction target. The Secretary General also asked EU leaders to phase out burning coal and approval of new coal-fired power plants beyond 2020.

The European Parliament and the EU's climate chief Miguel Arias Canete have called for the bloc to aim for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, saying legislation passed since the Paris Climate Agreement puts the EU on track to surpass its current emissions reduction target.

Poland and other EU member states that rely on coal for power production , along with Germany and its its powerful automotive sector, balk at deeper emission cuts. (Source: Various Media, Reuters, CNBC, June, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Coal,  GHGs,  Carbon Emissions,  EU,  

Built Green Canada
Date: 2019-06-07
Concurrent with National Environment Week, Built Green Canada announces its sixth annual challenge to municipalities across the country to raise awareness of the importance of sustainable building practices, to challenge municipalities to encourage green building, and to highlight those builders leading the way.

The challenge is marked by a growing number of municipalities who have proclaimed June 5 as BUILT GREEN Day. This reflects the growing concern faced by public and private industry on climate change and the heightened expectations of the municipality's role in addressing this social problem. In response to meeting environmental targets, all orders of government are developing climate mitigation strategies, while for those working in the residential building industry, increased energy performance and other regulations continue to change.

The increased stringency of codes and standards is driving costs up for the industry -- the unintended consequence is the further deterioration of housing affordability. With the intersection of these two social problems, there is possibility for further collaborative actions between government and industry collaboration that considers the environment, costs, and the pace of change given realizing sustainability targets requires the support of private industry.

Built Green Canada works with its builders to support the successful certification of their builds, assist them in meeting compliance requirements, while its programs' four levels of certification offer industry a means to voluntarily stay ahead of code and incrementally improve in preparation to be net-zero energy ready for 2030 regulations.

Though some municipalities are exclusively focused on energy performance, Built Green's programs are complementary as they take a more holistic approach that may reduce the load on civic infrastructure including water, power, and waste. Built Green recognizes municipalities may not be able to favour one program over another and therefore encourages municipalities to include its programs, alongside others, as an option to endorse.

Meanwhile, Built Green Canada has partnered with the Green Builder® Coalition to bring the first performance-based water rating to Canada through the water conservation section of their builder programs. Though parts of Canada, and the world, are increasingly experiencing droughts, and freshwater ecosystems are shown to be under stress, water conservation in the residential building industry has not received the attention energy efficiency has, though they are both connected and significant. The Water Efficiency Rating Score (WERS) is based on measurable parameters, along with a scoring scale that considers indoor and outdoor water use, reuse via rainwater, greywater and blackwater catchment calculations.

Built Green Canada is an industry-driven, national, non-profit organization offering programs for residential building. Since its inception, builders have worked with Built Green to complete over 32,750 certified homes represented in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Ontario -- including the units in multi-storey projects, the total is over 36,090. At the end of 2018, the cumulative impact of these single family certified homes translated into more than half a million (588,505.29) tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions saved (up to December 31, 2018). (Source: Built Green Canada, PR, June, 2019) Contact: Built Green Canada, Jenifer Christenson, CEO, (855) 485- .0920, jchristenson@builtgreencanada.ca, www.builtgreencanada.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Built Green Canada ,  Energy Efficiency,  Green Building,  

Carbon Brief,Committee on Climate Change
Date: 2019-06-07
Following up on our 6th May report, the UK, Chancellor of the Exchequer (Treasury) Philip Hammond has reportedly warned outgoing prime minister Theresa May that reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2050 could cost the UK over £1 trillion, according to the Financil Times newspaper. The Chancellor also noted the target would render some industries "economically uncompetitive without huge government subsidies." adds the FT.

The 2050 net-zero target was recently recommended by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC), the UK's independent climate advisory body which estimated that reaching net zero would come in at £50 billion a year. The UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy puts the figure at £70 billion, according to the FT.

The Chancellor and Under-Treasurer of Her Majesty's Exchequer, commonly known as the Chancellor of the Exchequer, or simply the Chancellor, is a senior official within the Government of the United Kingdom and head of Her Majesty's Treasury. The office is a British Cabinet-level position. (£1 = $1.27 US) (Source: Financial Times, Carbon Brief, Various Media, June, 2019) Contact: The Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP - GOV.UK www.gov.uk/government/people/philip-hammond; Committee on Climate Change, www.theccc.org.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Committee on Climate Change,  Net-Zero Emissions,  Carbon Emissions,  

Climate Change, Carbon Emissions
Date: 2019-06-05
Democratic former Vice President and 2020 Presidential hopeful this week launched his Climate Plan to attack climate change. The Biden climate plan calls for $1.7 trillion in federal money along with a mix of executive orders and legislation that would transition the U.S. to net-zero emissions "no later than 2050" while also protecting workers' rights to organize and a just transition for fossil fuel workers and communities of color. In short, Biden's plan is in line with freshman Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez' (D-N.Y.) Green New Deal and various climate plans released by other presidential wannabes and contenders.

"The Biden plan will be paid for by reversing the excesses of the Trump tax cuts for corporations, reducing incentives for tax havens, evasion, and outsourcing, ensuring corporations pay their fair share," according to a Biden campaign press release.

Download Biden's Climate plan outline HERE. (Source: Joe Biden Presidential Campaign, Various Media, Earther, 4 June, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  Net-Zero Emissions,  Green New Deal ,  

World Green Building Council
Date: 2019-05-31
The World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) reports 50 organizations have now signed up to the Net-Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment and pledged to ensure their individual portfolios of buildings operate at net-zero carbon by 2030.

The pledge also calls for cities, states and regions to require all new buildings operate at net-zero carbon from 2030, and all buildings, including existing buildings, operate at net-zero carbon by 2050.

In addition to generating and obtaining renewable energy to meet reduced energy demand, the Commitment positions energy efficiency as a central component to achieving decarbonization.

The WorldGBC's Advancing Net Zero Status Report 2019 details efforts to take on the challenge of decarbonizing the global building stock, and highlights leadership action from global businesses, governments and NGOs tthe goal of: certifying nearly 390 buildings globally as net zero carbon; raising awareness through advocacy activities of the urgency and achievability of net zero carbon buildings; and developing industry capacity through educational programmes and industry events.

Download Net-Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment details HERE. (Source: World Green Building Council, Canadian Architect, 30 May, 2019) Contact: World Green Building Council, Cristina Gamboa, CEO, World Green Building Council www.worldgbc.org/advancing-net-zero-status-report-2019

More Low-Carbon Energy News World Green Building Council,  

Madison Wisconsin
Date: 2019-05-29
In the Badger State, the city of Madison is touting the launch of its Backyard Solar grants program to help low-income residents install solar panels.

Grants will be available to community organizations and housing developers through a competitive process and will fund up to 20-pct of a project's total cost. The city has reserved $10,000 for grants in 2019, but there is a resolution circulating among council members to add another $30,000.

The Backyard Solar program is an addition to the MadiSUN residential program, which helps homeowners put solar panels on their rooftops. The City also offers a program that includes $30,000 in rebates for businesses that install solar.

In 2017, Madison became the first city in Wisconsin to set a goal of 100 percent renewable energy and net-zero carbon emissions for both city operations and residents. (Source: City of Madison, 28 May, 2019) Contact: MadiSUN Program, https://madisunsolar.com; Renew Wisconsin, Heather Allen, program director for Renew Wisconsin, which administers the MadiSUN programs for the city, Tyler Huebner, Executive Director, (608) 255-4044, www.renewwisconsin.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Community Solar,  MadiSUN,  Renew Wisconsin,