City of Fairfield
Date: 2020-09-11
In the Buckeye State, the City of Fairfield in Butler County reports it expects to save upwards of $50,000 a year over the next four years by changing electric power providers from Dynergy to Dublin, Ohio-headquartered IGS Energy, a supplier of 100 pct renewable power.

IGS Energy's 100 pct renewable energy will power various city-owned buildings including the city's water and sewer plants which collectively cost $550,000 a year in electric costs. The four-year contract with IGS will provide a 7 pct decrease in city expenses during the term of the agreement. (Source: City of Fairfield, Journal-News, 9 Sept., 2020) . Contact: City of Fairfield, Adam Sackenheim, Public Utilities Director, 513-896-8153 asackenheim@fairfield-city.org; IGS Energy, www.igs.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Dynergy,  IGS Energy,  Renewable Energy,  

Ricardo
Date: 2020-09-09
Global engineering, environmental and strategic consultancy Ricardo plc is reporting its commitment to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions from its operations by the end of 2030.

To that end, the company will: maximize the use of renewable energy; make more energy- and space-efficient use of its commercial property portfolio as more flexible office working is implemented; maximize its 'digital-first' strategy and avoid unnecessary business travel; increase energy efficiency; use verified offsetting schemes to offset residual emissions.

Ricardo's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including 'scope 3' emissions from air travel, for the financial reporting year 2019/2020 have been independently verified by Lloyds Register. Ricardo plans to implement Science-Based Targets during the financial year 2020/2021 to meet the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, according to the release. (Source: Ricardo, Website, PR, 7 Sept., 2020) Contact: Ricardo, Dave Shemmans , CEO, info@ricardo.com, www.ricardo.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ricardo,  GHG,  Carbon Emissions,  NetZero Carbon,  

Enefit Green,Eesti Energia
Date: 2020-09-09
Tallnin, Estonia-headquartered Enefit Green, Eesti Energia's renewable energy subsidiary reports acquisition of the Tolpanvaara wind farm development from the Finnish state forest manager Metsahallitus. The 100-MW, 22-turbine Tolpanvaara wind farm will be owned by Enefit Green's Finnish subsidiary Tolpanvaara Wind Farm Oy.

Eesti Energia Group owns 20 wind farms, 4 cogeneration plants, 36 solar power plants, a wood pellet plant and a hydroelectric power plant. (Source: Enefit Green, ERR, 8 Sept., 2020) Contact: Enefit Green, Aavo Karmas, CEO, www.enefitgreen.ee; Metsahallitus, www.mesa.fi

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enefit Green,  Wind,  Eesti Energia,  Wind Finland,  

Mass. DOER,RGGI
Date: 2020-09-09
In the Bay State, the Mass. Department of Energy Resources (DOER) reports the awarding of $13,000,558 in Green Communities competitive grants to 103 municipalities to fund clean energy and energy efficiency projects in furtherance of the state's net zero by 2050 emissions goals.

These latest awards bring the total awards to more than $136 million to Green Communities in Designation Grants and Competitive Grants since 2010.

Under the Green Communities Act, cities and towns must meet five criteria to be designated a Green Community and receive funding; 271 Massachusetts cities and towns accounting for 84 pct of the state's population have earned the Green Communities designation. Funding for these grants is available through proceeds from carbon allowance auctions under the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). (Source: Mass. Department of Energy Resources , PR, Worchester Telegram, Sept., 2020) Contact: Mass. Department of Energy Resources, 617-626-7300, www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-energy-resources; RGGI, www.rggi.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RGGI,  Mass DOER,  Energy Efficiency,  Renewable Energy,  RGGI,  

Smithfield Foods
Date: 2020-09-09
Virginia-based pork producer Smithfield Foods has pledged to become the first major protein company to go carbon negative through carbon reduction infinitive s at its 40 company-owned facilities in the U.S. by 2030 without purchasing carbon credits to offset emissions.

. In 2016, the company announced plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 pct by 2025 across its entire supply chain and in 2017 launched Smithfield Renewables that united its carbon reduction and renewable energy efforts. The company is known for its anaerobic digestion biogas efforts to turn methane from hog manure into renewable natural gas, The company will also work to sequester more carbon in farmlands and natural ecosystems. It also intends to add more wind and solar energy; streamline distribution routes to reduce miles traveled; reduce energy consumption for refrigeration, lighting and equipment. (Smithfield Foods, PR, 8 Sept., 2020) Contact: Smithfield Foods, Kenneth M. Sullivan, Pres., CEO, Lisa Martin, (757) 365-1980, lvmartin@smithfield.com, www.smithfield.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Smithfield Foods,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Negative,  Biogas,  Methane,  Anaerobic Digestion,  

Iberdrola
Date: 2020-09-09
Spanish utility Iberdrola SA is reporting progress in the development of Saint Brieuc, its first commercial-scale offshore wind project in Brittany.

The €2.4 billion, 62-turbine project is expected to generate sufficient power for 835,000 people and avoid 100,000 tpy of CO2 emissions.

An Eiffage Metal and Engie Solutions JV will be in charge of the engineering and construction of the project's substation foundation and topside that houses the transformers and electrical equipment. ENGIE Solutions will carry out final assembly work and commissioning tests.

Fabrication work will be carried out by Eiffage in Belgium and Poland with a scheduled completion date early in 2022.

Over the next four years, Iberdrola notes it plans to invest up to €4 billion in offshore wind over the next four years. The company presently has operating facilities in the Irish Sea, in German waters of the Baltic and in the North Sea. The company has an installed capacity of 32,695 MW and a renewable energy project pipeline exceeding 58,000 MW, according to the news release. (Source: Iberdrola, Website News Release, Spt., 2020) Contact: Iberdrola, +34 91 784 32 32, comunicacioncorporativa@iberdrola.es, www.iberdrola.es

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,  Offshore Wind,  

DTE Energy
Date: 2020-09-04
In the Motor City, DTE Energy is reporting the upgrading of its MIGreenPower voluntary renewable energy plan to bring an additional 420 MW of solar energy online by 2022. Per the updated plan, the new solar assets will source clean energy purchases from corporate, municipal and industrial customers participating in the company's MIGreenPower program.

If approved by the the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) DTE would increase its solar generation capacity by nearly ten times by 2022 when its wind and solar energy portfolio would generate sufficient energy to power 900,000 homes as well as offset approximately 4.7 million tons of CO2e.

DTE's energy generation portfolio presently has 15 wind parks and 31 solar farms capable of producing enough clean energy to power more than 500,000 homes. with plans to add three additional wind parks to its portfolio by the end of 2020. (Source: DTE, Zacks, 2 Sept., 2020)Contact: DTE Energy, Trevor Lauer, Pres., COO, Irene Dimitry, VP Business Planning & Development, (313) 235-9994, dimitryi@dteenergy.com, www2.dteenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News DTE Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  Renewable Energy,  

Bank of Ireland
Date: 2020-09-04
In Dublin, the Bank of Ireland reports the launch of a framework that will enable the Bank to issue "Green" Bonds and finance additional renewable energy, green buildings, and clean transportation. This follows the 2019 launch of the Bank's Sustainable Finance Fund which has to date provided €600 million in green loans to home owners and businesses.

Bank of Ireland's Responsible and Sustainable Business Initiatives include:

50 pct carbon intensity reduction target for 2030 (on a 2011 baseline), within the Bank's operations and the 40 pct emissions reduction the Bank achieved since 2011.

€2 billion Sustainable Finance Fund encouraging and rewarding energy-efficient homes, investment in older properties to improve sustainability performance, and SME and agri investment in energy efficiency

The launch of Ireland's first Green Mortgage interest rate under which borrowers can receive a discount off fixed rate interest options -- from 1 to 10 years -- to finance the purchase, construction or renovation of residential buildings with an A-rated or to achieve an A-rated BER energy performance

Green Home Improvement Loan designed to fund energy efficient upgrades, borrowers offered loan a discounted rate for amounts from €2,000 to €65,000

Green Business Loan for businesses seeking to implement energy saving initiatives to reduce their energy costs and their carbon footprint

Providing finance to Renewable Energy projects which to date has provided the equivalent of 468,000 homes with renewable generated electricity

In its effort to address climate change and climate change related risks, the Bank of Ireland became a signatory to the UN Principles for Responsible Banking in 2019 and a supporter of the Task Force on Climate-related Finance Disclosures (TCFD) in 2020. (Source: Bank of Ireland, PR, Finextra, 3 Sept., 2020) Contact: Bank of Ireland: Mark Spain, CSO, www.bankofireland.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Bond,  Renewable Energy,  Climate Change,  Energy Efficiency,  

Siemens Gamesa,Enel Green Power
Date: 2020-09-04
In Madrid, Spanish wind energy giant Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy reports it will install 87 wind turbines covered by a 5-year service agreement at a 300-MW wind farm north-east of the city of Boujdour in southern Morocco. The roughly $435.4 million project is expected to come online in Q3, 2022.

The Boujdour wind farm, which is owned by a consortium of Moroccan energy company Nareva and Italian Enel Green Power, was acquired by the consortium in 2016 as part of an 850-MW tender under the Moroccan Integrated Wind Power Project.

Morocco aims to source 52 pct of its installed electrical capacity from renewable energy sources by 2030. Siemens Gamesa presently operates eight wind farms totaling 856 MW in Morocco representing over 72 pct of the local market share, according to the company. (Source: Siemens Gamesa, Morocco World News, 2 Sept., 2020) Contact: Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, www.siemensgamesa.com; Enel Green Power Chile,+56 2 2847 9000, www.enelgreenpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enel Green Power,  Siemens Gamesa,  Wind,  

Xcel Energy
Date: 2020-09-04
In Minnesota, the City of Richfield is the latest community to join Xcel Energy's Partners in Energy Initiative to help the city achieve its energy goals and assist local residents and businesses in reducing their energy bills and carbon footprints.

Partners in Energy provide communities with the tools and resources necessary to develop and implement an energy action plan that reflects the community's vision for shaping energy use and supply in its future. The program lasts for two years with the initial six to eight months dedicated to developing a strategic energy action plan and the remaining time focused on the implementing that plan.

Communities accepted into the Partners in Energy initiative work with an Xcel Energy team that provides guidance, education, and resources for city staff, businesses and residents as they work to achieve measurable energy goals by a specified target date. While each community's energy action plan is unique, all plans identify strategies to meet specific goals. For example, they could include an education plan on energy conservation, finding ways to finance renewable energy sources such as wind and solar for city buildings, or promoting green technologies to businesses and residents. (Source: City of Richfield, PR, 2 Sept., 2020) Contact: Xcel Energy, www.xcelenergy.com, Xcel Energy Partners in Energy Initiative, www.xcelenergy.com/working_with_us/municipalities/partners_in_energy

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

GE Renewable Energy,LM Wind Power
Date: 2020-09-04
GE Renewable Energy is reporting the installation and commissioning of the 53 MW Kirazli and 32 MW Meryem wind farms in Turkey.

The two wind farms are part of a larger 2019 order with Turkerler and RT Enerji to supply five onshore wind farms incorporating 49 of GE's 3 MW onshore wind turbines totaling 158 MW -- sufficient power for 183,000 homes.

GE produced the turbine blades at its LM Wind Power's wind turbines blades manufacturing site in Bergama, Izmir, Turkey. (Source: GE Renewables, STL News, 3 Sept., 2020) Contact: LM Wind Power, www.lmwindpower.com; GE Renewable Energy, www.ge.com/renewableenergy/contact-us, www.ge.com/renewableenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News GE Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Turkey Wind,  LM Wind Power,  

TOTAL
Date: 2020-09-02
Prais-headquartered multinational oil and gas giant TOTAL Group reports it has incorporated Nigeria in its plan of achieving zero carbon emissions in production activities by 2050, as part of its drive to address global climate challenge.

To reach Net Zero on Operations by 2050 or sooner, TOTAL will invest in renewable generated low carbon electricity, low cost oil, biofuels, and nature-based carbon sinks or carbon capture and storage (CCS). The company noted it would continue to strike a balance between enabling the energy transition by investing in renewable energy while continuing to provide oil and gas to meet the needs of customers and society. (Source: TOTAL, PR, This Day, 1 Sept., 2020) Contact: Total Group, www.total.com

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

Cloudberry Clean Energy,Scanvind2
Date: 2020-09-02
Oslo, Norway-headquartered renewable energy developer Cloudberry Clean Energy AS reports it has offered to acquire 100 pct of the shares in Oslo, Norway-based Scanvind2 AS, developer of the 16-turbine Rewind Vanern wind power project in Lake Vanern, Sweden's largest lake.

Cloudberry notes it has completed operational, financial, and legal due diligence for the acquisition. The sale price is reported to be a combination of reversal of ScanVind2's existing sales credit to Cloudberry, an issuance of about 2.2 million Cloudberry shares at €1.2 and a cash payment not greater than €670,408. (Source: Cloudberry Clean Energy, Website PR, 1 Sept., 2020) Contact: Cloudberrry Clean Energy, Anders Lenborg, CEO, +47 48 89 56 92, tap@cloudberry.no, www.cloudberry.no/en; Scanvind2 AS, www.proff.no/selskap/scanvind2-as/oslo/energiforsyning/IF4HS8400BD

More Low-Carbon Energy News Offshore Wind,  Wind,  

TOTAL,Macquarie Green Investment Group
Date: 2020-09-02
Paris-headquartered French energy major TOTAL reports it is partnering with Macquarie Green Investment Group to develop five floating offshore wind farms off the eastern and southern coasts of South Korea. The first 500-mw project is expected to begin construction by the end of 2023.

Total notes it holds a majority stake in a floating wind project off Wales and is increasing its renewable energy investments overall with the intent of holding stakes in at least 25 gigawatts of renewable generation capacity in 2025. (Source: TOTAL, BNN, Sept., 2020) Contact: TOTAL, www.total.com; Macquarie Green Investment Group, www.greeninvestmentgroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News TOTAL,  Floating Wind,  Offshore Wind,  Wind,  Macquarie Green Investment Group ,  

Tidal Power
Date: 2020-08-31
The Sustainable Solutions Lab at the University of Massachusetts Boston produced the "Feasibility of Harbor-wide Barrier Systems" report for flood damage reduction in Boston in May 2018. Two scenarios were studied that combined shore-based systems and a barrier-wide system in terms of the time when barrier construction would be complete.

Scenario 1 was for completion in 2070 with shore-based systems needing damage protection to elevation +14 ft. Scenario 2 finished construction in 2050 with shore-based systems protection reduced to elevation +12 ft. for reducing flood damage.

When evaluating the outer-harbor barrier benefits, The SSL scenario analysis considered the integrated benefits of a combined shore-based system and harbor- wide barrier system as well as a design that combines storm surge flood damage reduction benefits with tidal-flow turbines for renewable energy generation.

The incorporation of turbines would generate electricity and an endless source of funding to help pay for the cost of the project. Similar tidal-flow turbines have been functioning in the East River, NYC, since 2006, according to the article. (Source: David R. Basco, Ph.D., Prof. emeritus of civil engineering and a former director of the Coastal Engineering Centre at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., Boston Herald, 30 Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tidal Power,  

California,Southern California Edison
Date: 2020-08-31
In the Golden State, according to a plan developed by utility Southern California Edison (SCE), if California is to meet it goal of becoming carbon neutral within 25 years the state's electric power grid will need to deliver 100 pct clean power to consumers through the addition of more wind, solar, and energy storage capacity.

SCE also foresees half of the state's households having solar panels and vehicles and buildings running primarily on electricity. The utility estimates that 75 pct of cars , space and water heating need to be electric by 2045.

Download the SCE PATHWAY 2045 -- Update to the Clean Power and Electrification Pathway whitepaper HERE. (Source: SCE, Yale Climate Connections, Aug., 2020) Contact: SCE, Ignacio Fernandez, Climate Policy Aadvisor, William Walsh, VP Energy Procurement & Management, www.sce.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Southern California Edison ,  SCE,  Carbon Neutral,  Renewable Energy,  

USDA Rural Development
Date: 2020-08-31
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports it is investing more than $7.4 million in loan and grant funding to support renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in rural New York State. Projects in the Hudson Valley include: Aeon Holdings, LLC in Catskill has been awarded a Rural Development investment of $15,943 in grant funding to be used for the purchase and installation of a 37.6-kW Solar array. Aeon Holdings is a REHC that leases the property to Hearthstone Care which provides social adult daycare in Catskill. The project will realize more than $5,000 per year in savings and will replace a 40,783 kWh per year

AIREAGO Corp. is a construction technology small business that designs, builds, and improves furniture, tools, and structures in Bloomingburg. The investment of $20,000 in grant funding will be used to purchase and install a 46.97 KW solar energy system.

Ellenville's 209 Storage Vault, Inc. is receiving $15,011 in grant funding that will be used to purchase and install a 24-kW solar energy array. 209 Storage Vault is a self-storage facility. This project will realize $3,668 per year in savings and will replace 26,198 kWh per year.

USDA Rural Development loans and grants support infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety, and others. (Source: USDA Rural Development, Mid-Hudson News, 30 Aug., 2020) Contact: USDA Rural Development, www.rd.usda.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA Rural Development,  Renewable Energy,  

Egyptian Minister of International Cooperation
Date: 2020-08-31
In Cairo, the Egyptian Minister of International Cooperation and the Minister of Electricity are reporting an agreement with the Danish Energy Agency for a 2019-2022 Egyptian-Danish Energy Partnership Program aimed at helping Egypt shift towards low-carbon new and renewable energy.

Under the agreement, the Danes and Egyptians will form a joint committee to develop comprehensive plans and initiatives to utilize renewable energy and consolidate commercial relations and share technologies to further integration in wind energy and other renewable energy projects. The 2035 energy strategy is intended to increase renewable energy's shares of Egypt's electric power generation capacity by by 42 pct, according to the release.

Download Egyptian-Danish Energy Partnership program details HERE. (Source: Egypt Ministery of International Cooperation, Egypt Independent, Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Egypt Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  

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

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

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

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

USGBC
Date: 2020-08-30
In India, Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt reports its SRK House, the 2,25 million sq. ft. crafting unit of one of the largest diamond companies, has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification -- the US GBC’s highest rating for sustainable and environment-friendly building operations .

SRK House scored 86 points out of 100 in LEED certification eligibility eith energy efficiency initiatives that included: addressing the increasing demand of energy due to growth with the ISO 50002 Energy Audit; improved waste management practices; increased use of renewable energy sources; increased recycling; energy benchmarking; regular CIO2 disinfection for the indoor areas ; Natural Cooling through out; low-flow plumbing fixtures for water conservation; rainwater harvesting and other energy conservation and efficiency initiatives and features. (Source: SRK House, PR, Instore Mag., 25 Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinum news,  Energy Efficiency news,  

More Low-Carbon Energy News LEED Platinum,  Energy Efficiency,  

JA Solar,Daemyoung Energy
Date: 2020-08-28
Beijing-based PV products manufacturer JA Solar reports it will supply modules to the 133-MW hybrid solar-wind Yeongam Solar Power Generation Project which is being constructed by South Korea's EPC LS Electric in South Jeolla Province, South Korea. The 93 MW PV section of the facility will be deployed on the grounds of an existing 40 MW wind farm.

The facility, which is planned to be connected to a battery capacity of 242 MWh, is being developed by Korean wind specialist Daemyoung Energy which will sell renewable energy certificates (RECs) from solar power generation to local utility Korea South-East Power Co. under a 20-year contract. The project is expected to come online before the year end. end of the year. (Source: JA Solar, PR, Aug., 2020) Contact: JA Solar Holdings, www.jasolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News JA Solar,  Solar,  Wind,  RECs,  

US Energy Information Administration
Date: 2020-08-28
According to the just released US Energy Information Administration (EIA) Electric Power Monthly Report for the period January -- June 2020, solar-generated electricity -- including distributed solar -- jumped by 22 pct year-on-year and provided nearly 3.4 pct of the U.S. total. Wind was up 14.5 pct and accounted for more than 9.1 pct of total generation. Combined, net wind and solar power generation is 16.4 pct more than a year ago and generated 12.5 pct of total US electrical production during the first six months of 2020.

Together with hydropower, biomass, and geothermal, renewables provided 22.3 pct of total electrical output -- a 19.9 pct increase over the previous year. Renewables produced close to one-third more electricity than coal through June 2020.

Total electrical generation by all renewable energy sources combined rose by 16.3 pct, driven primarily by a 31.4 pct expansion by wind and an 18.1 pct increase in solar generation while biomass fell by 10 pct and geothermal power dipped by 1.5 pct. (Source: US EIA, Aug., 2020) Contact: US EIA, www.eia.gov/electricity/monthly/epm_table_grapher.php?t=epmt_es1a

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Energy Information Administration ,  EIA,  Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  

BHP
Date: 2020-08-28
In the Land Down Under, Melbourne-based mining giant BHP reports the revamping of its strategy to reduce the company's operational emissions and set concrete targets to be reached by 2030 and its ultimate goal to become carbon-neutral by 2050.

The company noted that carbon capture and storage (CCS), an increased reliance on renewable energy and other initiatives will be funded through a $400 million climate investment program announced in 2019. The company also plans to update its portfolio assessment to take into account its Paris Climate Agrement agreement goals, and will sell or demerge some of its coal mines to help meet those goals. Additionally, future executive remuneration will include an element tied to climate change actions. (Source: BHP Billiton, mining.com, 27 Aug., 2020) Contact: BHP Billiton, Dr. Fiona Wild, VP Sustainability and Climate Change, +61 3 9609 3333, www.bhpbilliton.com, www.bhp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BHP,  Climate Change,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Neutral,  CCS,  

Nordex,Voltalia
Date: 2020-08-26
Nordex is reporting receipt of a supply and installation order from Sao Paulo-based TODA Energia do Brasil for 8 units of its AW132/3465 wind turbines for a 27.7 MW wind farm in Paris-headquartered renewable energy developer Voltalia's 2.4 GW Serra Branca wind and solar cluster in north-eastern Brazil. The order includes a 15-year service contract.

Project construction is slated to break ground in March, 2021. The wind power project is part of the 2.4 GW Serra Branca cluster to which the Nordex Group previously provided wind turbines totaling 341 MW. (Source: Nordex, PR, reve, 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: TODA Corp., TODA Energia do Brasil, +55-11-3886-5844, www.toda.co.jp/english; Voltalia, +33 1 81 70 37 00, accueil.paris@voltalia.com, www.voltalia.com/en; Nordex, Felix Losada, +49 40 300 30 1000, +49 40 300 30 1101, flosada@nordex-online.com, www.nordex.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Nordex,  Wind Turbine,  Voltalia,  

UNEP,ReNew Power
Date: 2020-08-26
In Delhi, India's largest renewable energy company, ReNew Power, and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) are reporting a partnership agreement to promote increased access to renewable energy and improved energy efficiency as part of the progressive strategies India has adopted to realize its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Climate Agreement.

ReNew Power will partner with the UNEP District Energy in Cities Initiative to support market transformation efforts to shift the heating and cooling sector to renewable and energy efficient solutions. The Initiative supports local and national governments on building local know-how and implementing enabling policies to accelerate investment in modern -- low-carbon and climate resilient -- district energy systems. The Initiative also works with cities and industry to identify, assess and tender bankable district energy projects based on international best practices.

Renewable energy sources constitute about 23.6 pct of total installed capacity in India which has targeted 175 GW of renewables capacity by 2022. (Source: UNEP, PR, 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: ReNew Power Private Ltd., District Energy in Cities Initiative, www.districtenergyinitiative.org; UNEP, Office for Asia and the Pacific, +91- 9811609245, www.unenvironment.org]

More Low-Carbon Energy News UNEP,  ReNew Power,  Energy Efficiency,  Renewable Energy,  

USDA
Date: 2020-08-26
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports it is investing $631,993 on the Rural Energy for America Program in Rural Puerto Rico, to increase energy resilience and decrease the demand for energy through energy efficiency. The following are among the 16 participants that received funding to develop renewable energy projects and to perform energy audits for agri-businesses:

Ana G. Mendez University System -- $59,267 to conduct approximately 25 energy audits for agri-business. These audits will provide the analysis to make energy efficiency improvements and/or installations of renewable energy systems.

Supermercados Selectos Mana, in San Sebastian -- $287,500, for the purchase and installation of a 743 kW solar energy system expected to yield $230,580 in annual savings.

Vaqueria Maria in Morovis -- $28,750 for the purchase and installation of a 44.84 kW solar energy system expected to deliver $16,115 in annual energy cost savings. (Source: USDA, Website, NewsIsMyBusiness, 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: USDA, Rural Energy for America Program, www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency

More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA,  Renewable Energy,  Energy Efficiency,  Rural Energy for America Program ,  

Iowa State University
Date: 2020-08-26
Iowa State University researchers are studying ways to increase farmer interest in and profits from anaerobic digestion (AD) and renewable natural gas (RNG) made from manure and other low-value biomass. The research team is aiming to help resolve technical, economic and social issues believed to be hindering the growth of AD technology in the US.

The researchers see abundant possibilities for RNG in Iowa and beyond to address greenhouse gas emissions and to diversify farm income and reduce pollution in the state's waterways.

The development of biofuels is a major recommendation in Iowa's 2016 energy plan and the state economic development authority's 2018 Biomass Conversion Action Plan which has been funding research into various anaerobic digestion techniques.

According to a 2013 National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) inventory, Iowa produces more manure than any other state but the sources are not sufficiently concentrated to make digestion feasible or economically profitable.

Researchers hope to enhance the efficiency, reduce the costs and create ancillary income streams that will persuade farmers in Iowa and beyond to add AD to their operations. To that end, the researchers will explore the use of mixed prairie grasses and winter cover crops, such as annual rye, for AD.

The project is funded with a $10 million grant from the USDA. (Source: Iowa State University, PR, Aug., 2020) Contact: Iowa State University, Prof. Lisa Schulte Moore, Natural Resource Ecology and Management, (515) 294-7339, , www.iastate.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iowa State University ,  RNG,  Biogas,  Anaerobic Digestion,  

USGBC
Date: 2020-08-26
In India, Shree Ramkrishna Exports Pvt reports its 2,25 million sq. ft. SRK House diamond manufacturing unit has scored US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification for energy efficient, sustainable and environment-friendly building operations.

SRK House scored 86 points out of 100 in LEED certification eligibility with energy efficiency initiatives that included: addressing the increasing demand of energy due to growth with the ISO 50002 Energy Audit; improved waste management practices; increased use of renewable energy; increased recycling; energy benc-hmarking; regular CIO2 disinfection for the indoor areas; natural cooling and lighting; low-flow plumbing fixtures for water conservation; rainwater harvesting and other energy conservation and efficiency initiatives and features. (Source: SRK House, PR, Instore Mag., 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org; Shree Ramkrishna Exports, +91 261 404 0544, www.srkexport.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News USGBC,  LEED Platinum,  Energy Efficiency,  

Climate Change, Nevada
Date: 2020-08-26
In Las Vegas, Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak has launched the new State of Nevada Climate Initiative (NCI) to further advance the Silver State's efforts to address climate change.

The initiative is intended to serve as the State's official online climate resource providing a Nevada-wide framework for climate action. It will also provide a framework for Nevada policymakers to evaluate the alignment of various climate policies and programs with the timelines and benchmarks necessary for Nevada to achieve greenhouse gas emission reduction goals established by the Legislature in 2019 and reinforced in the Governor's Climate EO and Nevada's membership in the U.S. Climate Alliance.

Nevadans are encouraged to weigh in on a variety of climate topics, including clean transportation policies, energy-efficient homes and buildings, renewable energy, climate justice focused on socio-economic and urban/rural disparities, and more. (Source: State of Nevada, KNTV Las Vegas, 24 Aug., 2020) Contact: State of Nevada Climate Initiative, climate@dcnr.nv.gov, www.climateaction.nv.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  

UNEP,ReNew Power
Date: 2020-08-26
In Delhi, India's largest renewable energy company, ReNew Power, and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) are reporting a partnership agreement to promote increased access to renewable energy and improved energy efficiency as part of the strategies India adopted to realize its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Climate Agreement.

The two organizations will support the heating and cooling market transformation to renewable energy and increased energy efficiency. The Initiative helps local and national governments build "local know-how" and implement enabling policies to accelerate investment in modern low-carbon and climate resilient district energy systems. The Initiative also works with cities and industry to identify, assess and tender bankable district energy projects based on international best practices.

Renewable sources constitute about 23.6 pct of total installed capacity in India which has targeted 175 GW of renewables capacity by 2022. (Source: UNEP, PR, 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: ReNew Power Private Limited District Energy in Cities Initiative, www.districtenergyinitiative.org; UNEP, Office for Asia and the Pacific, +91- 9811609245, www.unenvironment.org] More Low-Carbon Energy News UNEP news, ReNew Power news, Energy Efficiency news, Renewable Energy news,

More Low-Carbon Energy News UNEP news,  ReNew Power news,  Energy Efficiency news,  Renewable Energy news,  

EASAC, Biomass
Date: 2020-08-26
In Germany, the European Academies' Science Advisory Council (EASAC) is reportedly calling for EU legislators to introduce a new requirement that net carbon emissions from "biomass power stations be properly accounted for and declared under the Emissions Trading System (ETS)."

The European Commission is presently reforming the rules on monitoring and reporting for the ETS the period 2021-2030. The draft regulation requires that biomass complies with the Renewable Energy Directive Sustainability criteria to be considered carbon neutral. This is a critical point to ensure that biomass comes from sustainable managed forests, that it does not lead to a decrease to the forest carbon stock, and it doesn't damage biodiversity or soil and water quality.

The current EU ETS only accounts for smokestack emissions and rates the carbon emissions of biomass burning at zero. However, EASAC said in a statement that it "should not be possible to just assume that millions of tons of carbon coming out of a power station stack are 'zero'. The ETS should be reformed to link accounting to the real effects on CO2 levels in the atmosphere. This will require calculating the 'carbon payback period' for each biomass facility and its supply chain. Regulators need to know how long it will take until the initial perverse effects of biomass on climate are overcome and net reductions in atmospheric CO2 concentrations achieved', according to the release.

"The European Commission, in its recent biodiversity strategy, has recognised that sustainable bioenergy is a win-win solution for energy generation and a key tool to achieve carbon neutrality in 2050. EU member states, as shown in their national energy and climate plans, rely on efficient and sustainable bioenergy to decarbonise their energy mix," the release added. (Source: EASAC, Website, PR, Aug., 2020) Contact: EASAC, Professor Michael Norton, Environment Programme Director, info@easac.eu, +32 2550 2332 www.easac.eu

More Low-Carbon Energy News EU ETS news,  Biomass news,  Biomass Emissions news,  

Omega Geracao,EDF Renewables
Date: 2020-08-24
Sao Paulo, Brazil-based renewable energy company Omega Geracao SA is reporting it will acquire a 50 pct stake in EDF Renewables' 182.6-MW Ventos da Bahia 1 and 2 wind energy complexes in Brazil's Bahai State for $118 million -- 55 pct in cash and long-term debt assumption.

Omega currently has wind, solar and small hydro plants totaling roughly 1.19 gigawatt in capacity. The Eletrobras acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the year. (Source: Omega Geracao, Reuters, 23 Aug., 2020) Contact: Omega Geracao, www.omegageracao.com.br; EDF Renewables, Tristan Grimbert, Pres., CEO, www.edf-re.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News EDF Renewables,  Wind,  Brazil Wind,  

Clean Energy Infrastructure
Date: 2020-08-21
Zug, Switzerland based asset management firm Capital Dynamics subsidiary Clean Energy Infrastructure reports it and Omaha-headquartered Tenaska will develop nine battery energy storage systems (BESS) with approximately 2,000 MW of capacity in the Cal-ISO market to "help integrate" renewable energy.

Presently, Clean Energy Infrastructure and Tenaska jointly own two solar facilities in California's Imperial Valley area and are developing additional solar projects. (Source: Capital Dynamics, Website Press Release, , 18 Aug., 2020) Contact: Capital Dynamics, Benoit Allehaut, +41 41 748 84 44, 212 798 3400 – NYC Office, www.capdyn.com; Tenaska, Jerry Crouse, CEO,(402) 691-9700, info@tenaskacapital.com, www.tenaskacapital.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Clean Energy Infrastructure,  Tenaska,  Energy Storage,  

RWE AG,Nordex
Date: 2020-08-21
German renewable energy major RWE AG is reporting the conclusion of a roughly €2-billion ($2.39 billion) capital hike.

The company will invest the net proceeds in additional short-term capacity build-out, pipeline enhancements and in further visible mid- and long-term growth opportunities in renewables -- on top of RWE's goal of expanding its renewable energy portfolio to above 13 GW net. A portion of the funds will be used ti finance the company's previously reported planned purchase of Nordex SE's 2.7-GW onshore wind and solar project development pipeline. (Source: RWE AG, Website News, 19 Aug., 2020) Contact: RWE AG, Rolf Martin Schmitz, CEO, www.rwe.com; Nordex, Felix Losada, +49 40 300 30 1000, +49 40 300 30 1101, flosada@nordex-online.com, www.nordex.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News RWE AG,  Renewable Energy,  Nordex,  

Neoen
Date: 2020-08-21
Paris-based independent renewable energy developer Neoen reports the filing of its development application for its $3 billion, 163-turbine Goyder South wind, solar and storage project in South Australia . The plan proposes a total of 1,200MW of wind energy, 600MW of solar PV, and 900MW/1800MWh of lithium-ion battery storage.

Each stage would be delivered in three equal tranches of 400MW wind, 200MW solar and 300MW/600MWh of lithium-ion battery storage. Combined, they would generate around 4.8 terawatt hours of zero emissions power each year, nearly doubling the current output of wind and solar in the state, and taking South Australia close to the Liberal government's net 100 pct renewables target just on its own.

The solar farm would be spread across 3,000 hectares, the lithium-ion batteries would deliver 900MW with two hours of storage, and associated infrastructure for connection to the electricity grid would include three substations, access tracks, underground connection cabling and transmission lines. (Source: Neoen, ReNew Economy, 20 Aug., 2020)Contact: Neoen, www.neoen.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neoen,  Wind,  Solar,  Energy Storage,  

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

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

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

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Date: 2020-08-19
Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy SA reports receipt of a firm order from Indian renewables developer Adani Green Energy Ltd for 215 units of SG 2.2-122 turbines totaling 473 MW for Adani's wind project in Fatehgarh , Rajasthan state, India. The order includes supply, installation and pre-commissioning. . The wind farm is expected to be commissioned and online in September 2021. (Source: Siemens Gamesa, Renewables, 17 Aug., 2020) Contact: Adani Green Energy More Low-Carbon Energy News Siemens Gamesa news, Wind news, Adani Green Energy news, Philadelphia Energy Launches Second Annual Solar Week (Ind. Report) In the Keystone State, the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is reporting the launch of its second annual “Solarize Philly” program that provides free remote solar assessments and a new Solar Savings Grant Program to households of all income levels. The program , which is the largest of its kind in the nation, has facilitated a $10 million investment in Philadelphia's clean energy economy since 2017.

PEA also heads up Bright Solar Futures, a workforce development program aimed at establishing the nation's first Solar Energy Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, with U.S. DOE support and PECO utility sponsorship.

The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is an independent municipal authority created in 2010 to advance clean and affordable energy goals for the City. PEA has facilitated over $100 million in clean energy projects in Philadelphia since 2017, creating more than over 1,000 jobs. PEA’s $1 billion Philadelphia Energy Campaign, which launched in 2016, will create 10,000 jobs by 2026 through the implementation of clean energy and energy efficiency projects. (Source: Philadelphia Energy Authority, PR, 14 Aug., 2020) Contact: Philadelphia Energy Authority, www.philaenergy.org; Solarize Philly, www.solarizephilly.org More Low-Carbon Energy News Solarize Philly news, Philadelphia Energy Authority news, Solar news, Statkraft Plans Berry Burn Wind Farm Expansion (Int'l. Report) Norwegian state owned Statkraft AS reports it is seeking Scottish government approval to expand its 66.7-MW Berry Burn wind farm in Moray, Scotland to 104.5 MW with nine additional turbines totalling 37.8 MW. The additional turbines are expected to generate 139.1 GWh of electricity per year, or enough to supply over 35,500 homes. The 29-turbine Berry Burn wind farm originally came online in 2014. (Source: Statkraft, PR, Renewables, 18 Aug., 2020) Contact: Stakraft, More Low-Carbon Energy News Statkraft news, Wind news, Scotland Wind news, Azelio Announces Masdar Renewable Energy Storage Project (Intl. Report) Gothenburg, Sweden-headquartered global engineering firm Azelio AB reports along with Masdar and Khalifa University its will install a verification project in Abu Dhabi in Q3 2020 to evaluate Azelio’s renewable energy storage technology for inclusion in the Masdar product portfolio for current and future renewable energy projects. The evaluation project will be set up and installed by ALEC Energy, the solar business division of ALEC Engineering and Contracting LLC, part of the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Azelio and ALEC Energy have signed an MoU, covering a collaboration over 49MW installed capacity of Azelio’s energy storage until 2025. (Source: Azelio, Middle East Technical Review, 18 Aug., 2020) Contact: Azelio, Jonas Eklund, CEO, +46 709 40 35 80, jonas.eklind@azelio.com, www.azelio.com More Low-Carbon Energy News Azelio news, Energy Storage news, Renewable Energy news, Dominion Energy Snares 62.5MW Virginia Solar Project (M&A, Ind. Report) In the Old Dominion State, Richmond-based Dominion Energy is reporting acquisition of a 62.5-megawatt solar power project in Orange County from Cypress Creek Renewables . The facility is expected to go online in 2022. Falls Church-based Northrop Grumman Corp. will purchase the facility's renewable energy from the grid to power its operations. (Source: Dominion Energy, PR, 17 Aug., 2020) Contact: Dominion Energy, Robert Blue, Exec. VP, . Cypress Creek Renewables More Low-Carbon Energy News Dominion Energy news, Solar news, Cypress Creek Renewablse news,

Siemens Gamesa,Adani Green Energy
Date: 2020-08-19
Spanish wind energy major Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy SA reports receipt of a firm order from Ahmedabad, India-headquartered renewables developer Adani Green Energy Ltd for 215, 2.2-122 turbines totaling 473 MW for Adani's wind project in Fatehgarh , Rajasthan state, India. The order includes supply, installation and pre-commissioning.

The wind farm is expected to be commissioned and online in September 2021. (Source: Siemens Gamesa, Renewables, 17 Aug., 2020) Contact: Adani Green Energy, +91-79-2656 5555, info@adani.com, www.adanigreenenergy.com; Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, www.siemensgamesa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Siemens Gamesa,  Wind,  Adani Green Energy ,  

Azelio
Date: 2020-08-19
Gothenburg, Sweden-headquartered global engineering firm Azelio AB reports along with Masdar and Khalifa University its will install a verification project in Abu Dhabi in Q3 2020 to evaluate Azelio's renewable energy storage technology for inclusion in the Masdar product portfolio for current and future renewable energy projects.

The evaluation project will be set up and installed by ALEC Energy, the solar business division of ALEC Engineering and Contracting LLC, part of the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Azelio and ALEC Energy have signed a collaborative MoU covering 49 MW installed capacity of Azelio's energy storage until 2025. (Source: Azelio, Middle East Technical Review, 18 Aug., 2020) Contact: Azelio, Jonas Eklund, CEO, +46 709 40 35 80, jonas.eklind@azelio.com, www.azelio.com

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

Austrocel
Date: 2020-08-19
Austria's dissolving pulp producer AustroCel Hallein GmbH reports construction is underway on its 30 million lpy bioethanol production facility at the pulp mill in Hallein. The plant is expected to be commissioned in November for biofuel production in December, this year.

As previously reported , Autrocel has a multi-year biotehanol supply agreement with Austria's Vienna-headquartered oil and gas company OMV which will blend Autrocel supplied biofuel with gasoline to reduce the carbon intensity of OMV's fuel products and fulfill legal additive requirements under the Renewable Energy Directive II (RED II).

The REDII consumption target of 32 pct was introduced for the EU member states for 2030. The directive also requires fuel suppliers to supply a minimum of 14 pct of the energy consumed in road and rail transport by 2030 as renewable energy. (Source: Austrocel, EUWID Pulp & Paper, 19 Aug., 2020) Contact: AustroCel Hallein GmbH, Jorge Harbring, CEO, +43 6245 8900, www.austrocel.com; OMV, www.omv.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Austrocel,  Ethanol,  Bioethanol ,  

Masdar,EDF Renewables
Date: 2020-08-17
MASDAR is reporting its second strategic investment in the U.S. in a deal with EDF Renewables North America that will see it acquire a 50 pct stake in a 1.6-GW portfolio of three utility-scale wind farms totaling 815 MW and five photovoltaic (PV) solar projects totaling 689 MW including 75 MW of lithium-ion battery energy storage. All of the portfolio projects are under construction and expected to come online before the year end.

The portfolio includes the 243 MW Coyote wind project in Scurry County, Texas; the 273 MW Las Majadas wind project in Willacy County, Texas; and the 300 MW Milligan 1 wind project in Saline County, Nebraska. In Riverside County, California, the Desert Harvest 1 and Desert Harvest 2 PV projects total 213 MW of solar and 35 MW / 140 MWh of battery storage. Also in Riverside County are the 173 MW Maverick 1 and 136 MW Maverick 4 solar PV projects. These four projects are also under construction and slated for commercial operations in the fourth quarter of 2020. The final project in the portfolio is Big Beau, a 166 MW solar PV and 40 MW/160 MWh battery energy storage projectin Kern County and will reach commercial operation in 2021. (Source: MASDAR, EDF, Construction Business News, 16 Aug., 2020) Contact: EDF Renewables, Tristan Grimbert, Pres., CEO, www.edf-re.com; MASDAR, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO, +971 2 653 3333, www.masdar.ae

More Low-Carbon Energy News Mardar,  EDF Renewables,  Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  

Vestas
Date: 2020-08-17
Vestas is reporting receipt of its second and final order for the 34 MW Dreieck Spreeau wind project in Brandenburg, eastern Germany.

The final order includes supply, installation and commissioning of eight V150-4.2 MW turbines as well as a 15-year Active Output Management 5000 (AOM 5000) service agreement and a VestasOnline Business SCADA solution to optimize energy output.

Deliveries are expected to begin in Q4, 2021, for commissioning in Q1 the following year. (Source: Vestas, PR, Renewable Energy, 17 Aug., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vestas news,  Wind Turbine news,  

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

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

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

FedDev Ontario,IGP Ethanol
Date: 2020-08-14
In Ontario, London West MP Kate Young is reporting FedDev Ontario has invested $10 million to support Ontario-based renewable fuel producers Forge Hydrocarbons and Aylmer-based IGPC Ethanol Inc.

In addition to FedDev Ontario's repayable contribution, FORGE Hydrocarbons has leveraged $25.6 million from private investors. FedDev Ontario's repayable contribution to IGPC supports a $112 million project leveraging more than $107 million in other investments.

The Province of Ontario's renewable energy industry and agricultural sectors produce 380 million lpy of high-octane fuel grade ethanol and 340,000 tpy of distillers' grains (DDGs) from 36 million bushels of Ontario corn.

FedDev Ontario has invested over $123 million in 60 Ontario clean technology projects since 2015. (Source: FedDev Ontario, Website News, CTV News, 12 Aug., 2020) Contact: FedDev Ontario, www.feddevontario.gc.ca; IGPC Ethanol, 519-765-2575, www.igpc.ca; Forge Hydrocarbons, www.forgehc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News FedDev Ontario,  IGPC Ethanol,  FORGE Hydrocarbon,  

DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-08-14
In Washington, the U.S. DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). has announced $20 million in funding to advance perovskite solar photovoltaic technologies. When used to create solar cells, perovskites have shown potential for high performance and low production costs. To be competitive in the marketplace, perovskite’s long-term durability must be tested and verified, the aim of this funding opportunity announcement.

The DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office is aiming to improve understanding of perovskite stability; establish methods to produce high-efficiency, stable perovskite devices using industry-relevant fabrication techniques; and develop test protocols that enable high confidence in long-duration field performance of perovskite-based photovoltaic technologies. DOE will fund projects in three topic areas: Device R&D (Efficiency and Stability); manufacturing and R&D; and validation and Bankability.

This topic area seeks to establish a neutral, independent validation center that can be used to verify perovskite device performance and address acceptance and bankability challenges. Independence and neutrality are required to ensure there are no conflicts of interest between this effort and other projects seeking to demonstrate high-performance devices. This center will be responsible for developing and refining test protocols, including accelerated life testing that closely correlates with long-term field performance. The center will also be responsible for operating an extensive field testing effort using devices produced by the R&D community to iteratively refine all test protocols and improve community understanding of remaining stability and performance issues. The center will investigate the environmental impact of perovskite technologies and serve as an objective source of information and analysis for the investment and finance communities. Teams must be led by a DOE Federally Funded Research and Development Center/National Laboratory. (Source: US DOE, EERE Solar Energy Technology Office, PR, 13 Aug., 2020) Contact: EERE Solar Energy Technology Office, www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,  Solar,  

Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company
Date: 2020-08-12
In Cairo, the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC) reports the cancellation of its 200 MW tender to establish a solar photovoltaic power plant in the West Nile area due to the country achieving surplus electricity amid lower demand, and other projects already in progress.

By 2022, the Egyptian Ministry of Electricity aims to produce 20 pct of the country's energy from renewable sources by 2022 increasing to 42 pct by 2035. The total installed capacity of renewable energy will be 5.5GW -- 2.8GW from hydroelectric, 2.7GW from wind and solar plants, and 1.4GW from the Benban Solar Complex. (Source: Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company, Energy Egypt Newsletter, ESI, 11 Aug., 2020) Contact: Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company, www.energyegypt.net/tag/eetc

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Egypt Solar,  

European Commission
Date: 2020-08-12
In Brussels, the European Commission (EC) reports it is considering more ambitious 2030 targets on renewable energy and energy efficiency action with the aim of ensuring the EU delivers on its pledge to become climate neutral by 2050.

The review will sharpen the EC's view of the renewable energy and energy efficiency's contribution to meeting the European Green Deal's goal of reducing the 28-member trading bloc's greenhouse gas emissions by 50-55 pct by 2030.

For renewables, the EC seeks to assess if the renewables target of at least 32 pct for 2030 should be raise and that other directives and initiatives should be modified to be in line with the Energy System Integration Strategy and the Hydrogen Strategy. The outcome of the review and possible proposals are expected in June 2021. (Source: European Union News, European Commission, Balkan Green Energy News, Aug., 2020)

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

Sunamp
Date: 2020-08-12
UK-based thermal energy storage specialist Sunamp Ltd reports it raised £4.5 million in Series A funding led by Chilean venture capital firm Aurus Capital, the Scottish Investment Bank and existing private investors. The funding will support its commercial scaling in the UK as well as international expansion in Central Europe, Asia and North America.

Sunamp batteries store energy from renewable and non-renewable sources allowing more renewable energy to be used both behind-the-meter and in the electricity grid by helping to absorb peaks of renewable generation, deal with intermittency and reduce curtailment. (Source: Sunamp, PR, Solar Power Portal, 11 Aug., 2020) Contact: Sunamp, Andrew Bissel, CEO, +44 1875 610001, www.sunamp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sunamp.Thermal Energy STorage,  Energy Storage,  

Visa
Date: 2020-08-12
San Francisco-based global payments technology company Visa Inc. is reporting its inaugural green bond offering totaling $500 million, paying a semi-annual coupon of 0.75 pct and maturing August 15, 2027.

According to the Visa Green Bond Framework, the bond proceeds will be used to fund: upgrades to buildings, energy efficiency improvements, expanded usage of renewable energy sources, water efficiency projects, employee commuter programs, research and initiatives focused on sustainable consumer behaviors, and other related projects. The proceeds also will support projects to inspire and foster sustainable living in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

These projects build on Visa's sustainability leadership, including its transition to 100 pct renewable electricity across its operations achieved at the start of 2020. (Source: Visa Inc., PR,Business Wire, 11 Aug., 2020) Contact: Visa Inc., Lindy Mockovak , lindy.mockovak@visa.com, usa.visa.com/about-visa.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News VISA,  Green Bond,  Renewable Energy,  Energy Eficiency,  

Apple
Date: 2020-08-10
In its 2020 Environmental Progress Report, multinational technology giant Apple announced a 10-year roadmap to reduce emissions by 75 pct by 2030 while developing innovative carbon removal solutions for the remaining 25 pct of its comprehensive footprint.

The company notes it is already carbon neutral for corporate emissions worldwide. By achieving the 2030 goal, the company would have brought its entire carbon footprint to net zero 20 years sooner than IPCC targets.

Apple will implement the following and other measures to meet its carbon-neutral goal:

Invest in renewable energy -- Apple will remain at 100 pct renewable energy for its operations -- focusing on creating new projects and moving its entire supply chain to clean power. Apple has commitments from over 70 suppliers to use 100 pct renewable energy for Apple production -- equivalent to nearly 8GW in commitments to power the manufacturing of its products. Once completed, these commitments will avoid over 14.3 million metric tpy of carbon emissions . New and completed projects in Arizona, Oregon, and Illinois bring Apple's renewable capacity for its corporate operations to over 1GW -- equivalent to powering over 150,000 homes a year. Over 80 pct of the renewable energy that Apple sources for its facilities are now from Apple-created projects, benefiting communities and other businesses.

Expand investments in energy efficiency -- Apple will identify new ways to lower energy use at its corporate facilities and help its supply chain make the same transition. Through a new partnership with Apple, the US-China Green Fund will invest $100 million in accelerated energy efficiency projects for Apple's suppliers. In 2019, Apple invested in energy efficiency upgrades to over 6.4 million square feet of new and existing buildings, lowering electricity needs by nearly one-fifth and saving the company $27 million.

Carbon removal -- Apple is investing in forests and other nature-based solutions around the world to remove carbon from the atmosphere. The company has announced a first-of-its-kind carbon solutions fund to invest in the restoration and protection of forests and natural ecosystems globally.

In partnership with Conservation International, the company will invest in new projects, building on learnings from existing work like restoring degraded savannas in Kenya and a vital mangrove ecosystem in Colombia. Through its work with The Conservation Fund, the World Wildlife Fund, and Conservation International, the company has protected and improved the management of over 1 million acres of forests and natural climate solutions in China, the US, Colombia, and Kenya.

Download Apple's 2020 Environmental Progress Report HERE. (Source: Apple, July, 2020) Contact: Apple, www.apple.com

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