Microsoft
Date: 2020-01-20
"We are getting extremely impatient, frankly, for policy action on climate change. We support a carbon fee because we believe it's a policy mechanism that works and accords with economic principles." -- Lucas Joppa, Chief Environmental Officer, Microsoft, 3 May, 2019

"It's important that what we build leaves a positive legacy, that we don't build it on the back of fossil fuels, but rather, we build it on the back of the next generation of energy technology of wind and hydro and solar." -- Brian Janous, Microsoft Lead Energy Manager, !9 July, 2019

More Low-Carbon Energy News Microsoft,  Climate Change,  Renewable Energy,  

Ameresco
Date: 2020-01-20
In Minnesota, the Stillwater City Council reports it is considering an energy assessment and proposal from Framingham, Mass.-based renewable energy and energy efficiency specialist Ameresco. The Ameresco assessment projects that $700,000 -- $1,000,000 in energy efficiency upgrades to nine city owned facilities could significantly cut energy consumption as well as reduce energy and future maintenance costs. The savings would cover the cost of the infrastructure upgrades or the difference would be covered by Ameresco.

Ameresco's proposed upgrades include: replacing fluorescent lighting with LEDs; occupancy controled lighting; installing mechanical insulation to pumps and piping; and building envelope improvements. (Source: City of Stillwater, 17 Jan., 2020) Contact: City of Stillwater, Mick Greiner,Facilities Manager, 651-430-8800, www.ci.stillwater.mn.us; Ameresco, Bob Georgeoff, VP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  

Iberdrola, DP Energy
Date: 2020-01-20
Madrid-headquartered energy major Iberdrola reports it has committed $500 million to construction of the 320-MW Port Augusta Renewable Energy Huba hybrid wind and solar project near Port Augusta in South Australia. Construction of the the DP Energy Ltd. developed project is slated to break ground in June.

The first stage of the project, which has bee sold to Iberdrola, will incorporate 210 MW of wind capacity and 110 MW of solar capacity has been sold to Iberdrola, DP Energy will hold a proposed second stage featuring more solar PV and a battery storage capacity. The Port Augusta Renewable Energy Hub will result in a significant increase in the share of wind and solar in the state's grid, and has been welcomed by the Liberal state government, which aims to reach net 100 per cent renewables by around 2030. (Source: Iberdrola, IEEF.org, 15 Jan., 2020)Contact: Iberdrola, Fernando Santamaria, Australia Manager, www.iberdrolarenewables.com; DP Energy, +353 22 23955, www.dpenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,  Wind,  Australia Wind,  DP Energy,  

MPower,Astronergy Solar
Date: 2020-01-20
In the Land Down Under, renewable energy developer MPower Ltd. is reporting work is underway on two, 5 MW solar farms in South Australia.

The projects, which will incorporate Astronergy Solar solar modules, are in keeping with the company's strategy of targeting locations and smaller size utility-scale projects that can be easily connected to the grid. (Source: MPower, PV Mag., 17 Jan., 2020) Contact: MPower, Nathan Wise, CEO, +61 3 9765 0555, +61 3 9765 0577 - fax, info@mpower.com.au, www.mpower.com.au; Astronergy Solar, +86 571 5675 8864, +86 571 5675 3388 - fax, www.astronergy.com; www,astronergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News MPower,  Solar,  Australia Solar,  

Pinnacle Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-01-20
In British Columbia, Vancouver-based Pinnacle Renewable Energy reports it has inked a new 40,000 deadweight-ton ship charter for the delivery of its industrial wood pellets from British Columbia, Canada to customers in Japan where it has signed three wood pellet contracts within the last six months, according to the company release. (Source: Pinnacle Renewable Energy, Bioenergy, 20 Jan., 2020) Contact: Pinnacle Renewable Energy, Pinnacle Pellet, Robert McCurdy, CEO, (604) 270-9613, investors@pinnaclepellet.com, www.pinnaclepellet.com

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

Clearway Energy Group
Date: 2020-01-20
San Francisco-headquartered Clearway Energy Group LLC, a US renewable energy generation and distribution company, said on Thursday it has completed financing on its Community Solar Fund V -- a portfolio of 21 projects totaling 76 MW (DC) in Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota and New York States. Part of the portfolio is expected to come online this year.

Clearway Energy Group LLC focuses on renewable energy generation and distribution, as well as owns renewable energy projects. The company has over 320 MW of community solar projects across the country, in addition to its utility-scale solar and wind operations. (Source: Clearway Energy Group, Renewables, 17 Jan., 2020) Contact: Clearway Energy Group, 415-627-1600, www.clearwayenergygroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Community Solar,  Clearway Energy Group,  Solar,  

Daybreak Power
Date: 2020-01-20
In the Old Dominion State, Vienna-based gigawatt-scale energy storage projects developer Daybreak Power Inc. is reporting the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has accepted the company's application for a preliminary permit for its proposed $3.6 billion, 2,200 MW Navajo Energy Storage Station at the retired Navajo Generating Station coal plant near Page, Arizona.

The Navajo Energy Storage Station (NESS) is a pumped storage hydropower facility that would use water from Lake Powell and a new reservoir on a plateau above the lake to create a gigantic battery. The facility would use solar and wind energy to pump water to the upper reservoir, then release it through turbines to generate 10 hours of renewable energy each day to power cities in California, Arizona and Nevada.

The NESS facility is Daybreak's second huge energy storage project, following its proposed 1,540 MW Next Generation Pumped Storage facility that would utilize water from Lake Mead and transmission infrastructure near Hoover Dam, according to the release. (Source: Daybreak Power,PR, Website, 17Jan., 2020) Contact: Daybreak Power, Jim Day, CEO, 703-624-4971,jim@gaybreakpower.com, www.daybreakpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Pumped Hydro,  Daybreak Power,  Battery,  Energy Storage,  

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association
Date: 2020-01-17
Westminster, Colorado-headquartered wholesale power provider Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association Inc. (Tri-State) reports it is contracting for a new solar power project in Moffat County and others in western Colorado as it works to end its coal-fired power generation in the state. The company also announced new renewable energy projects in Colorado and New Mexico that, along with its existing renewable power generation and previously announced projects that have yet to be built, will result in half of the energy consumed by its local cooperatives coming from renewable sources by 2024.

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association Inc is a not-for-profit cooperative power supplier to 46 members including 43 electric distribution cooperatives and public power districts in four states that together power to more than a million electricity consumers across nearly 200,000 square miles of the western U.S. (Source: Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association , PR, 16 Jan., 2020) Contact: Tri-State, Duane Highley, CEO, 303-452-6111, www.tristategt.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Wind,  Solar,  

Eesti Energia
Date: 2020-01-17
Estonian energy producer Eesti Energia reports it cutting the use of fossil fuels for power production in line with the country's goal of cutting its carbon emissions by 50-55 pct by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The company notes Estonia is ahead of that goal and has already reduced its emissions by over 60 pct.

Eesti Energia's renewable energy output tripled during the year, mostly coming from subsidiary Enefit Green, the largest wind energy producer in the Baltic States. Renewable energy production also increased in Ida-Viru County’s thermal power plants, where the company produces electricity from wood waste. There are also plans to develop Tootsi Wind Farm. (Source: Eesti Energia, Baltic News Network, 14 Jan., 2020) Contact: Eesti Energia, www.energia.ee

More Low-Carbon Energy News Eesti Energia,  Carbon Emissions,  CO2 ,  

Masdar, Infinity Energy
Date: 2020-01-17
In the UAE, Abu Dhabi-based Masdar and Egyptian renewable energy developer Infinity Solar are reporting an agreement to jointly develop African renewable energy projects.

Infinity will develop utility-scale and distributed solar energy and wind power projects in Egypt and Africa. Egypt's 2035 Integrated Sustainable Energy Strategy targets 20 pct of the electricity mix coming from renewables by 2022 and 42 pct by 2035.

Infinity Energy completed the development and construction of Egypt's first large-scale solar power plant in February 2018, followed by another three plants in Benban Solar Park, which is considered the largest solar park in the world to date. Infinity Energy now operates its six solar plants with a total capacity of 235MW.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) recently committed an investment in Infinity Energy of up to S$60 million in the form of capital increase in the company to finance the development, construction and operation of renewable energy projects and associated ancillary business including electricity distribution and electric vehicle charging stations in Egypt and across Southern and Eastern Mediterranean countries. (Source: Masdar, Infinity Energy, Arabian News, 16 Jan., 2020) Contact: Infinity Solar, Nayer Fouad, CEO,+20 2 25054345, info@infinitysolar.com, www.infinitysolar.com; Masdar, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO, Shaima Al Jarman, Marketing & Communications, +971 02 8109365, saljarman@masdar.ac.ae, www.masdar.ca.ae

More Low-Carbon Energy News Masdar ,  Infinity Energy,  Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  

Connecticut’s Green Bank
Date: 2020-01-17
The Rocky Hill, Conn.-based Connecticut Green Bank, the quasi-public agency tasked with attracting private investment in energy efficiency and renewable power projects, reports it is now offering commercial property Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) loans.

The C-PACE program allows building owners to finance qualifying energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements via a voluntary assessment on their property tax bill. (Source: Connecticut Green Bank, New Haven Insider, 15 Jan., 2020) Contact: Connecticut Green Bank, Mackey Dykes, VP Financing Programs, 860-563-0015, www.ctgreenbank.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Connecticut Green Bank,  C-PACE,  Energy Efficiency,  

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

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

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

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

African Development Bank
Date: 2020-01-15
The Ivory Coast-headquartered African Development Bank (AfDB) reports it has approved a $20 million investment in the Metier Sustainable Capital International Fund II in support of renewable energy and resource efficient infrastructure projects in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The investment is in line with AfDB's efforts to alleviate financing constraints in the renewable energy sector and will contribute to production of 178,5 MW of renewable power for commercial and residential use.

Metier is a well-established fund manager with a track record of deploying more than US$550 million in African countries, including solar, wind and hydro power projects in Southern and East Africa. Metier has been a key player in South African solar power, a maturing technology that offers significant benefits in terms of storage and dispatchability to the grid, unlike traditional photovoltaic options.

In other African renewable energy news , the AfDB has approved a $8.91 million grant drawn from the EU Africa Investment Platform (EU-AIP) to support Ruzizi IV, 287 MW Hydropower Project, to be situated on the Ruzizi River between Rwanda and Congo. The Ruzizi III, with a projected 147 MW output is under development with Bank support. (Source: African Dev. Bank, Chronicle, 14 Jan., 2020) Contact: AfDB, Amadou Hott, VP Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, +225 2026 3900, www.afdb.org/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News African Development Bank,  Africa Renewable Energy,  Renewable Energy,  

Montana Climate Change
Date: 2020-01-15
In Big Sky Country, Climate Smart Missoula, along with Missoula County, is reporting work on the Missoula Climate Resilency Plan aimed at reducing the effects of climate change in the Missoula area is underway.

According to its website, the plan focuses on various areas -- energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable development, clean transportation, land and water management, forest and open land management, green buildings, education and outreach -- all of which are crucial to Missoula's climate mitigation and resiliency efforts.

Download Climate Resiliency Plan details HERE and HERE (Source: Climate Smart Missoula, 8KPAX, 13 Jan., 2020) Contact: Climate Smart Missoula, 406-926-2847, www.missoulaclimate.org

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

Ocean Renewable Energy Action Coalition
Date: 2020-01-15
An international Ocean Renewable Energy Action Coalition has been formed to advance sustainable deployment of ocean-based renewable energy -- offshore wind, floating solar, tidal and wave power -- and at the same time mitigate the impacts of climate change while meeting roughly 10 pct of the annual greenhouse gas emissions reductions needed by 2050 to keep global temperatures under 1.5 degreeC above pre-industrial levels, according to a report released by the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy. Most of this climate change mitigation potential is expected to come from offshore wind.

The Action Coalition includes MHI Vestas, Orsted, Equinor, CWind, Global Marine Group, JERA, Shell, Mainstream Renewable Power, Siemens Gamesa, TenneT and The UK Crown Estate.

Download the The Ocean as a Solution to Climate Change -- Five Opportunities for Action Report HERE. (Source: High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, Various Media, Maritime Executive, 13 Jan., 2020) Contact: High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, www.oceanpanle.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ocean Energy,  

Minnesota Clean Energy Resource Team
Date: 2020-01-15
In Minneapolis, Minnesota Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) reports it is awarding Seed Grants to 35 innovative renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in communities statewide.

The 35 projects received funding across a broad spectrum of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies including LED energy efficient lighting, components of energy education, outreach, community building, R&D and others.

These awards mark the tenth round of Seed Grants from CERTs, totalling over $1.3 million to 393 projects since 2006. (Source: Minnesota Clean Energy Resource Teams, Cookston Times, 13 Jan., 2020)Contact: Minnesota Clean Energy Resource Teams, 612-625-8759, info@cleanenergyresourceteams.org, www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org

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

BayWa r.e
Date: 2020-01-15
German renewable energy specialist Baywa re GmbH is reporting the sale of the 17.25-MW Fuerstkogel Wind Farm in the Austrian Alps to German insurance company insurance company advised by Encavis Asset Management AG, part of Encavis AG.

The Fuerstkogel Wind Farm was constructed by BayWa's subsidiary ECOwind utilizing 5 Vestas V126 turbines producing about 45 GWh of power per year. (Source: BayWa r.e., Renewables, 14 Jan., 2020)Contact: BayWa r.e., Hakan Wallin, CEO, +49 (89) 383932 131, www.baywa-re.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BayWa,  Wind,  

ExxonMobil
Date: 2020-01-13
"As we wrap up 2019, it's useful to take stock of the past year and keep looking ahead to the future and what we need to do to accomplish our energy goals. We need to do a lot. We are at a crucial inflection point with climate change, as is all too clear from the regular stream of updates in our news feeds every day. ExxonMobil’s annual Energy Outlook, which came out recently, discusses how the world is still offtrack to meet certain climate goals without a lot of additional effort.

"That further work means continued technology innovation. We have to keep finding and inventing solutions to the myriad of individual problems posed by the dual challenge. These different efforts -- both within and outside of our own research labs -- are all essential to moving us forward. They include the important renewables work being done with wind, solar and geothermal by so many around the world; they also include research focused on carbon capture technology and biofuels -- and everything in between. On ExxonMobil’s end, we are proud of our portfolio of innovative emission-lowering projects that have led to more than 10,000 patents in the last decade. Since 2000, we've spent $16.5 billion on this kind of R&D.

"Moving into 2020, we need to stay focused on several key themes related to solving the dual challenge: scale, speed, collaboration and training the next generation of scientists, engineers and other problem solvers. Scale is everything in our efforts. Reducing carbon emissions to fight climate change as we simultaneously deliver more and more energy to a growing world is a big job. And it's not just one job. As I said earlier this year, 'Not only are the sizes we are talking about so big they are sometimes unfathomable, but we must deploy solutions globally AND across countless end uses. It's not one equation with one unknown, but multiple equations with multiple unknowns.'

"As we work to solve for these multiple unknowns, we are pursuing projects big and small. What they share in common is the strict requirement that they must lead to a scalable solution. Energy is gigantic, from the infrastructure that supports it to the markets that drive its supply and demand. Any solution we find in the lab, however brilliant, must be ready to immediately scale.

"And it needs to happen quickly. As we know, scientific discovery is an ongoing endeavor -- you can't put a deadline on invention. But we can accelerate innovation. First, we can follow the example of parallel processing from computer science. In our labs, we don't wait for the basic science to be definitively 'concluded' (if it even can be). We start the engineering while we're still doing the science and iterate between the two. That requires collaboration between different types of researchers and innovators – between our corporate lab and government and academic labs, for example -- and that's the other way we speed up scalable solutions: with partnerships. Partnerships are a force multiplier. They are absolutely key when it comes to solving the dual challenge. When I look back on the past year, I am proud of the scope and variety of partnerships we undertook as a company. To name just a few:

National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the National Energy Technology Laboratory (and other DOE-funded labs) -- in a 10-year, $100 million collaboration to bring advanced energy technologies to market at scale, focused on reducing carbon emissions.

IBM -- to collaborate on quantum computing that could help make energy exploration and extraction enormously efficient.

MIT Energy Initiative -- to extend our existing relationship supporting this project, which is committed to discovering new emission-reducing technology.

Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) locations in Madras and Bombay -- to continue our research with scientists and students working on the ground in India to address the energy needs and challenges on the subcontinent, including studying life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in India's power sector.

Clariant and Genomatica -- to convert residue left over from farming into biofuel that can power trucks, ships and more. Clariant has expert processes to extract sugars from agricultural leftovers like wheat straw, while Genomatica turns sugars into biofuels.

Global Thermostat -- to evaluate the scalability of their innovative carbon capture technology, which removes CO2 from the atmosphere and industrial sources.

Microsoft -- to digitally transform 1 million acres of unconventional oil and gas fields in the Permian Basin, making it the largest-ever oil and gas acreage to use cloud technology, and also making it more efficient. Energy efficiency is an often overlooked area when we think about the dual challenge.

(Source: ExxonMobil, PR, , 31 Dec., 2019) Contact: ExxonMobil, Dr. Vijay Swarup, VP Research and Development , www.linkedin.com › dr-vijay-swarup-120a95159, (972) 444-1107, www.exxonmobil.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  ExxonMobil,  Vijay Swarup ,  

Ameresco,New Bedford Housing Authority
Date: 2020-01-13
In the Bay State, Framingham-headquartered energy efficiency and renewable energy specialist Ameresco and the New Bedford Housing Authority are reporting a $12.7 million Energy Performance Contract (EPC) that is expected to save the Housing Authority $19.6 million in energy and water cost savings over its sixteen-year term.

The project, which involves 15 public housing developments encompassing close to 1,500 households, includes water conservation, exterior and common-area lighting upgrades, boiler replacements, and roof-top mounted solar installations in conjunction with significant incentives available from the Commonwealth's Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program.

With more than 30 years of experience, Ameresco has implemented improvements for over 130,000 households under performance-based energy and water services contracts, according to the company. (Source: Ameresco, New Bedford Housing Authority, Framingham Source, 12 Jan., 2020) Contact: New Bedford Housing Authority, 508-997-4829; Ameresco, Bob Georgeoff, VP, (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  

Primary Energy,Fortistar,ArcelorMittal
Date: 2020-01-13
White Plains, New York-based Fortistar and its partners are reporting an agreement to sell 50 pct of the shares of Primary Energy to SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust (SEEIT).

Primary Energy Recycling has a 298 MW portfolio of waste heat-to-power (WHP) and combined heat and power (CHP) plants located at two of the most efficient steel mills in North America belonging to ArcelorMittal S.A. and United States Steel Corporation, selling discounted electrical and thermal energy to the mills under long-term stable contractual arrangements.

The transaction is expected to close in Q1 2020 with Fortistar continuing to manage the company.

Fortistar's portfolio of associated companies includes Generational Power, TruStar Energy, Primary Energy Recycling, Fortistar Methane Group, Fortistar Biomass Group, Carbonfree Chemicals, Golden Renewable Energy and ClockIN.

SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust plc is the first London Stock Exchange-listed company of its kind to invest exclusively in the energy efficiency sector. (Source: Fortistar, PR, Jan., 2020) Contact: SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust plc, www.sdcleeit.com; Primary Energy, Mo Klefeker, CEO, 630-371-0505, www.primaryenergy.com Forttistar, Mark Comora, CEO, (914) 421-4937, MComora@fortistar.com, www.fortistar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Primary Energy,  ArcelorMittal,  Fortistar,  Energy Efficiency,  

PACE, City of Guelph
Date: 2020-01-10
In Ontario, Our Energy Guelph (OEG), a public interest group has proposed the city of 132,000 residents adopt the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program to assist property owners with energy efficiency retrofit and renewable energy loans through OEG.

OEG is looking to administer approximately $100 million per year -- from private entities like financial institutions or insurance companies looking for investments in energy efficiency projects -- to finance projects under the PACE program, (Source: Our Energy Guelph, Guelph Mercury Tribune, Jan., 2020)Contact: Our Energy Guelph, Alex Chapman, Exec. Dir., www.ourenergyguelph.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News PACE,  Energy Efficiency,  Guelph,  

Excelsior Energy Capital,Invenergy
Date: 2020-01-10
Excelsior, Minnesota-based independent renewable energy investor Excelsior Energy Capital reports its North American Renewable Energy Fund has closed on the acquisition of 90.1pct of Invenergy's sponsor equity interests in the combined 109-MW Prairie Breeze II and Prairie Breeze III wind farms in Antelope and Boone counties, Nebraska.

Invenergy will remain a part-owner of the sponsor equity interests in the projects and Invenergy Services will continue to provide O&M and asset management services through a long-term contract. Both projects have 25-year power purchase agreements with Lincoln Electric Systems and the City of Grand Island. (Source: Excelsior Energy Capital, Jan., 2019) Contact: Excelsior Energy Capital , Ryan Fegley, Partner , info@excelsiorcapital.com, www.excelsiorcapital.com; Invenergy, Meghan Schultz, Snr VP, Finance & Capital Markets, (312) 224-1400, www.invenergyllc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Wind,  Excelsior Energy Capital,  Invenergy,  

China Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-01-10
Shanghai Securities News is reporting Beijing is considering scaling back or even abolishing subsidies to the offshore wind power sector in 2022. Beijing would, however, still encourage regional-level governments to subsidize construction of local offshore wind farms. In 2019, the central government cancelled subsidies for the solar power industry.

The cut backs are being viewed as a sign of the government's intention to completely eliminate financial support to renewable energy firms as their technology becomes more commercially competitive. (Source: Shanghai Securities News, CX Tech, 9 Jan., 2020)

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

State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine
Date: 2020-01-10
Reporting from Kiev, the Ukrainian State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine is claiming €3.7 billion was invested in record high 4,500 MW of renewable energy capacities in Ukraine in 2019.

According to the agency, 3,537 MW of solar power, 243 MW of wind power, 637 MW of biomass, 73 MW of biogas and 15 MW of mini hydropower facilities were installed in 2019. With these installation, Ukraine's total green energy capacity now stands at 6.8 GW, according to the agency's report. (Source: State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine, UNKRINFORM, Jan., 2020) Contact: State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine, www.saee.gov.ua

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  

Iberdrola
Date: 2020-01-08
Madrid-headquartered renewable energy giant Iberdrola is reporting completion of the 500-MW Nunez de Balboa solar project -- the largest in Europe -- according to Iberdrola. The facility is now being tested by Spanish grid operator Red Electrica de Espana (REE) and is slated for full commercial operation in Q1, 2020.

The €290 million ($325 million) facility incorporates solar panels from Chinese manufacturers Suntech, Longi and GCL-SI. The project was financed through the European Investment Bank (EIB)and the Spanish state-owned Instituto de Credito Oficial. (Source: Iberdrola, Various Media, GTM, 3 Jan., 2019) Contact: Iberdrola Renewables, Xabier Viteri, Dir. Renewables Business, www.iberdrolarenewables.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,  Solar,  

Iberdrola, BNDES,Brazilian Wind Power
Date: 2020-01-08
In Rio de Jan1ero, the Brazilian National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) reports approval of a 1.3 billion reais loan to Brazilian Wind Power to finance construction of 12 wind farms in Paraíba state totaling 1.6 billion reais ($395,765,440 US). The wind farms will have a total installed capacity of 370.8 MW when fully operational in 2022.

Brazilian Wind Power is controlled by Neoenergia, owned by Madrid-based renewable energy giant Iberdrola. (Source: BNDES,PR, reve, 3 Jan., 2019) Contact: National Bank for Economic and Social, Development, +55 21 2052-7447 / 3747-7447, www.bndes.gov.br; Iberdrola Renewables, Xabier Viteri, Dir. Renewables Business, www.iberdrolarenewables.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,  Wind,  Brazil Wind,  

Hecate Energy, Greenbacker Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-01-08
Kansas City, Missouri-based Greenbacker Renewable Energy Company, an externally managed energy company that acquires and manages income-generating renewable energy and energy efficiency projects and other energy-related businesses, reports that through a wholly-owned subsidiary, it has signed the rights to a 110 MW portfolio of solar projects located in Greene and Albany counties, New York, from Chicago-based Hecate Energy. Closings to take place throughout 2020 and the facilities are slated to be fully operational in 2021.

The portfolio will sell a portion of the renewable energy credits generated to an investment grade off taker through a 20-year fixed price contract and will sell the remaining portion of energy and Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) attributes generated to two utilities through fixed price 20-year contracts. (Source: Greenbacker Renewables, Energy Global, 7 Jan., 2020) Contact: Greenbacker Renewable Energy, 888-292-3178 www.greenbackerrenewableenergy.com;Hecate Energy LLC, Chris Bullinger, CEO, Solutions@HecateEnergy.com, www.hecateenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hecate Energy,  Greenbacker Renewable Energy,  Solar ,  

Maine Energy Storage
Date: 2020-01-08
In Augusta, a panel of Maine State lawmakers and stakeholders is recommending the state set an initial goal of adding 100 MW of energy storage by 2025. The panel is calling for "achievable" near-future policy actions, paired with further study and investigation to inform future policy action.

The panel's report noted energy storage could help Maine reach its renewable energy goals, which climb to 80 pct of retail sales by 2030 and 100 pct by 2050. To that end, the report recommended offering incentives for energy storage to be included with renewable energy procurements. The report also recommends the Efficiency Maine Trust, which oversees the state's energy efficiency programs, be given the authority to use energy storage to lower peak demand, and that the Maine PUC should consider time-of-use rates to support energy storage as well as clarify utility ownership for energy storage facilities. The report also suggested the Governor's Energy Office conduct an in-depth study on the costs and benefits of energy storage and propose future energy storage targets based on its study. (Source: Maine State Legislature Energy Storage Commission, American Public Power Assoc., 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: Maine State Legislature Energy Storage Commission, http://legislature.maine.gov/energy-storage-commission

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Storage,  

Fraunhofer
Date: 2020-01-06
Reuters is reporting renewable energy accounted for 46 pct of Germany's power in 2019 -- up roughly 5 pct from the previous year. Germany, which is Europe's biggest economy, is aiming for renewables to provide 65 pct of its power mix by 2030. The country also plans to completely abandon nuclear power by 2022 and is planning an exit from coal.

Out of last year's total power production of 515.6 TWh, solar, wind, biomass and hydroelectric generation together produced 237.4 TWh. In 2019, wind power, both onshare and offshore, produced 127.2 TWh for a 24.6 pct share of the total mix. Solar produced 46.5 TWh, biomass producers generated 44.4 TWh while hydropower generated 19.2 TWh of power, according to data from the Fraunhofer organisation of applied science. (Source: Successful Farming, Reuters,3 Jan., 2019) Contact: Fraunhofer, +49 36601 93010, www.fraunhofer.de/en.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News Fraunhofer ,  Renewable Energy,  German Renewable Energy,  

Enel Green Power North America
Date: 2020-01-06
Enel Green Power (EGP) reports it has begun operations at two renewable energy plants in the United States. The projects include the first 252 MW phase of the 497-MW Roadrunner solar project in Upton County, Texas, and the 66 MW Whitney Hill wind power project developed by Swift Current Energy in Logan County, Illinois.

This announcement follows the recent start of operations of 450 MW of EGP's High Lonesome wind farm in Texas bringing the company's total new renewable capacity added in the US in 2019 to nearly 800 MW with another 1 GW currently under construction across six renewable energy projects. (Source: Enel Green Power North America, PR, reve,3 Jan., 2019) Contact: Enel Green Power North America, Georgios Papadimitriou, Connor Branch, Bus. Dev., (978) 681-1900, www.enelgreenpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enel Green Power North America,  Wind,  

City of Grand Rapids,
Date: 2020-01-06
The city of Grand Rapids, Mich, (pop. 200,000 +-) is reporting construction of its $57 million wastewater treatment plant anaerobic biodigestion facility is nearing completion and commissioning.

The biodigester facility includes 3 tanks with a total capacity of 1.4 million gallons. Two tanks will be used for municipal biosolids and the other tank is an anaerobic membrane bioreactor to quickly reduce food waste and other organic waste to energy and increase energy efficiency. The project is part of the city's effort to use 100 pct renewable energy to power city buildings by 2025. (Source: City of Grand Rapids, WasteWater Management, Jan., 2019)Contact: City of Grand Rapids, Mike Lunn, Utilities Director, 616-456-3166, www.grandrapidsmi.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Anerobic Digestor,  Bioreactor,  

Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-01-06
White Plains, NY-based agribusiness major and ethanol producer Bunge Ltd is reporting the sale of its equity stake in an ethanol plant in Iowa to Council Bluffs-based Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy LLC (SIRE). Under the deal Bunge will purchase all of the plant's the ethanol production.

According to its website, SIRE is a dry-mill grain processing facility that produces over 110 million gpy of fuel grade ethanol, over 365,000 tpy of Dried Distillers' Grain (DDGs) with the ability to produce Wet Distiller Grains (WDGs), as well as approximately 90,000 ppd of corn oil. The facility will consume over 44.6 million bpy of corn feedstock from southwestern Iowa and several counties in southeast Nebraska. (Source: Bunge, Biofuel Int'l., 6 Jan., 2020) Contact: Southwest Iowa Renewable EnergyLLC, Mike Jerke, CEO, 712-366-0392 www.sireethanol.com; Bunge Ltd, (914) 684-2800, www.bunge.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Bunge,  Ethanol,  DDGs,  

British Airways,CORSIA
Date: 2020-01-03
Following up on our 11th October, 2019 coverage, British Airways reports it will begin offsetting carbon emissions on all flights within the UK, as part of its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Customers flying within the UK on flights operated by British Airways will have the carbon emissions from their flights offset by the airline and invested in verified carbon reduction projects such as renewable energy, protection of rainforests and reforestation programmes.

In addition, British Airways' carbon emissions on international flights will be capped at 2020 levels through the United Nations' worldwide carbon pricing scheme called CORSIA, (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation).

British Airways has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 through a range of initiatives, including offsetting emissions, flying more fuel-efficient aircraft, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and changing operating procedures, as well as working with stakeholders and governments to strengthen global climate policy.

The airline and its parent company, IAG will invest a total of $400 million on alternative sustainable fuel development over the next 20 years. (Source: British Airways, PR, 2 Jan., 2019) Contact: British Airways, www.ba.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News British Airways,  Aviation Emissions,  Carbon Offset,  CORSIA,  

US EIA
Date: 2020-01-03
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) is reporting utility-scale hydropower, wind, solar, geothermal and biomass accounted for 23 pct of the U.S. energy mix, while coal was only 20 pct in April, 2019. The EIA report noted that although generation output from large coal, gas and nuclear plants is typically lower during April and other demand lull periods, renewable capacity has been growing and coal-fired power falling in recent years.

Each renewable resource set record high generation outputs sometime during 2018. Wind power generated 30.2 million MWh in April, a new monthly high, while a combination of utility-scale solar photovoltaics and solar thermal made history in June with 7.8 million MWh, the EIA report shows. (Source: US EIA, Power Eng., Jan., 2020) Contact: US EIA, www.eia.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  US EIA,  Coal,  

Date: 2019-12-31
A proposal that would require new commercial construction projects in Massachusetts to use only renewable energy has opponents and proponents drawing a line in the sand. Supporters say the net zero net energy proposal is needed to address global warming more quickly. Opponents argue that there is not sufficient technology and capacity to increase electrification to meet the demand. Opponents also say the proposal would greatly diminish housing development during the state’s housing crisis and that electricity bills for tenants would skyrocket. “As housing costs continue to skyrocket, we need more housing. To add an additional cost to housing production is essentially a barrier ... We’ll see a slowdown in housing production,” said Tamara Small, CEO of Needham-based NAIOP, the state’s commercial real estate development association. NAIOP has about 1,700 members in Massachusetts. The proposal basically requires new commercial construction and significant commercial renovations to generate as much renewable energy as needed on-site. What can’t be generated on-site can be purchased off-site. Only energy from solar, wind and hydro would be allowed. The use of all fossil fuels, including natural gas, propane, oil, coal and wood pellets, would be banned. While the proposal is primarily for commercial construction, it would affect some housing as well. The exemptions are single-family houses, multifamily homes of three stories or less, and mobile and modular homes. The proposal was written by the American Institute of Architects and submitted to the International Code Council to be considered for codes being compiled for 2021. All 50 states adopt some version of ICC’s residential, commercial and other codes. The AIA’s Massachusetts Chapter in November also submitted the proposal to the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards for consideration for inclusion in the 10th edition of the state’s building code. Massachusetts in 2009 became the first state to adopt a “stretch code,” an enhancement to its base building energy code that provides for more energy-efficient construction. To be designated as a Green Community, municipalities have to comply with the stretch code. While the stretch code initially resulted in a 10% jump in energy efficiency, that has decreased after two subsequent editions of the code, in part because the base energy code has gotten more efficient. “Now about 80% of the 351 cities and towns have become designated as Green Communities. A good majority are saying we need to take the next step, which is net zero,” Nunnari said. This would be another tool in their quest toward mandating a higher level of energy efficiency, he added. The hope, he said, is if ICC agrees to include the proposal in its 2021 documents, all 50 states would have the opportunity to adopt the net zero regulation or amend it to their liking. California, he noted, has already imposed a net zero energy requirement for new residential and commercial buildings by 2030. Similar regulations are being considered by several other states and regions, he said. The proposal has the backing of several hundred organizations. (Source: Worcester Telegram & Gazette, 28 Dec., 2019)

Credit Agricole,Daiwa Securities
Date: 2019-12-30
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (Credit Agricole CIB) and Daiwa Securities Group have jointly announced the issuance and sales of Green Securities. This is the first time that Credit Agricole CIB will issue index-linked structured uridashi as green bonds denominated in Japanese yens and distributed by Daiwa Securities Co Ltd to Japanese individuals and institutional investors.

An amount equal or equivalent to the net proceeds of the Green Securities will be used to finance and/or refinance one or more of the new or existing loans and investments including renewable energy -- wind and solar projects, bioenergy, energy efficiency, waste and water management, building sustainability, clean transportation and other "green" projects.

Credit Agricole Group, sometimes called "la banque verte" due to its historical ties to farming, is the world's largest cooperative financial institution. It consists of a network of Credit Agricole local banks, the 39 Credit Agricole regional banks, and a central institute, the Credit Agricole S.A.. Credit Agricole supports environmentally engaged companies and projects which implement best practices in terms of energy transition and climate change strategies in line with the COP25 Paris Agreement. (Source: Daiwa Securities, Credit Agricole, PR, 23 Dec 2019) Contact: Daiwa Securities , www.daiwa-grp.jp › english; Credit Agricole, www.credit-agricole.fr

More Low-Carbon Energy News Credit Agricole,  Green Bond,  Green Securities,  Daiwa Securities ,  

Orsted
Date: 2019-12-30
In Copenhagen, Danish renewable energy giant Orsted and six industrial partners -- Everfuel Europe A/S, NEL Hydrogen A/S, GreenHydrogen A/S, DSV Panalpina A/S, Hydrogen Denmark, and Energinet Elsystemansvar A/S -- is reporting receipt of €4.6 million in EUDP funding for construction of a 2MW H2RES electrolysis plant with appurtenant hydrogen storage in Denmark.

The H2RES project will use power directly from Orsted's two Siemens Gamesa 3.6-MW offshore wind turbines at the Avedore Power Station to produce renewable hydrogen for road transportation fuel. (Source: Orsted, Offshore Wind, 20 Dec., 2019) Contact: Orsted, Anders Nordstrom, VP Hydrogen, Henrik Poulsen, CEO, Daniel Lerup, Inv. Relations, +45 99 55 97 22, www.orsted.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Orsted,  Hydrogen,  Wind,  

UK Renewable Energy
Date: 2019-12-30
In London, the newly elected majority Conservative government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed its election manifesto pledge to "enable new floating turbines" and increase the country's new offshore wind capacity from 30GW to 40GW by 2030.

The Johnson government's commitment to wind energy is part of its effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The government also confirmed its planned £800 million investment in a carbon capture storage (CCS) cluster by the mid-2020s. A further £500 million will also be provided to help energy-intensive industries move to low-carbon techniques and a low-carbon economy. (Source: BBC, Various Media,Dec., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News CCS,  Offshore Wind,  UK Renewable Energy,  

Indianapolis Power & Light
Date: 2019-12-30
In the Hoosier State, Indianapolis Power & Light (IPL)Co., a utility unit of Arlington, Virginia-based AES Corp, is reporting plans to scuttle two of the four coal-fired units at its 1,700-MW Petersburg Generating Station south of Indianapolis.

The shutdown is part of the utility's 20-year strategy for power generation that all electric utilities are required to file every three years.

The Petersburg station has been described as a "super polluter" of sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxide particulate matter and sulfuric mist and has accumulated more than a dozen environmental violations in the past five years, according to the Indianapolis Business Journal.

In 2017, the Indianapolis City-County Council passed a resolution that called for a reduction in carbon emissions, increased energy efficiency and renewable energy use. City officials later created a plan for the city to be powered by 100 pct renewable energy by 2050. (Source: Indianapolis Power & Light, Journal Review, 28 Dec., 2019) , Contact: City of Indianapolis, City Council, (317) 327-4242, www.indy.gov; Indianapolis Light & Power, Vince Parisi, CEO, www.iplpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Indianapolis Power & Light,  Carbon Emissions,  Coal,  

Westervelt,Pinnacle Renewable Energy
Date: 2019-12-30
In "The Heart of Dixie", Tuscaloosa-based Westervelt Co. reports it is partnering with Vancouver, B.C.-based Pinnacle Renewable Energy to construct a woody biomass-wood pellet production plant in the city of Demopolis. The 360,000 metric tpy plant is aiming for an early 2021 startup, according to a statement.

Pinnacle will reportedly hold a 70 pct stake in the plant, Westervelt will hold 20 pct and Two Rivers Lumber Co. which will supply the plant with sawmill waste for pellet production, will hold the remaining 10 pct. (Source: Westervelt Co., Various Media, San Francisco Chronicle, 28 Dec., 2019) Contact: Westervelt, Brian Luoma, CEO, 205-562-5800,www.westerveldtlumber.com; Pinnacle Renewable Energy, Pinnacle Pellet, Robert McCurdy, CEO, (604) 270-9613,investors@pinnaclepellet.com, www.pinnaclepellet.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Westervelt,  Pinnacle Renewable Energy ,  Wood pellet,  

EDP Renewables,First Solar, ConnectGen
Date: 2019-12-23
Following up on our 13th November report, First Solar reports EDP Renewables and Houston-headquartered ConnectGEN LLC's acquisition of three First Solar projects totaling 278MW AC in the US has been completed . The projects include the 154MWAC Sun Streams 1 project in Maricopa County, AZ, the 20MWAC Windhub A project in Kern County, CA, and the 103MWAC Sunshine Valley project in Nye County, Nevada.

EDP Renewables North America commissioned its first two solar parks in California in January 2015, subsequently adding three solar parks in South Carolina to its operational portfolio.

Houston-headquartered ConnectGen develops renewable energy and energy storage projects across North America. The company is backed by Quantum Energy Partners, a provider of private equity capital to the global energy industry. (Source: EDP Renewables, First Solar, Printed Electronics, 30 Dec., 2019) Contact: EDP Renewables North America, Miguel Prado, CEO, (713) 265-0350 - Houston, +351 21 001 25 00, www.edpr.com; First Solar, Kathryn Arbeit, VP, Project Dev., David Brady, Inv. Rel., (602) 414-9315, dbrady@firstsolar.com, www.firstsolar.com; ConnectGEN LLC, (346) 998-2020, www.connectgenllc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News EDP Renewables ,  Solar,  First Solar,  ConnectGen ,  

Highview Power Storage
Date: 2019-12-23
In the U.K., London-headquartered cryogenic energy storage system specialist Highview Power Storage, Inc., and Encore Renewable Energy, a developer of renewable energy generation and storage projects are jointly reporting plans to develop the United States' first long duration, liquid air energy storage system -- a minimum of 50MW sytem providing 400MWh stroage -- in northern Vermont.

Highview Power's CRYOBattery™ proprietary liquid air energy storage system relies on low-risk, proven technology, generates zero emissions, has zero water impact and can be delivered at a cost of approximately half of the current cost of traditional lithium-ion batteries. When paired with renewables, the systems are equivalent in performance to fossil fuel powered thermal and nuclear baseload power. (Source: Encore Renewable Energy, Highview Power, PR, 18 Dec., 2019) Contact: Highview Power Storage, Inc., Javier Cavada, CEO , Salvatore Minopoli, VP, salvatore.minopoli@highviewpower.com, www.highviewpower.com; Encore Renewable Energy, Chad Farrel, CEO, www.encorerenewableenergy.com

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

DOE SETO
Date: 2019-12-20
Cleveland-headquartered power management specialist Eaton Corp is reporting receipt of $3 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) to pursue research and development initiatives that enable more widespread adoption of solar power and energy storage.

Eaton's research will focus on developing a real-time controller for behind-the-meter distributed energy resources and loads, such as solar generation and battery storage. The project will integrate data from smart meters to enable enhanced grid services that improve reliability in distribution systems with high solar penetration.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Electric Power Research Institute, Pecan Street, Provo City Power and Commonwealth Edison will participate in Eaton's research. m will work with existing utility infrastructure.

SETO supports early-stage R&D to improve the affordability, reliability, and performance of solar technologies on the grid. (Source: Eaton, PR, BusinessWire, 19 Dec., 2019) Contact: Eaton, Cara Klaer, Media, (248) 226-1755, CaraLKlaer@eaton.com, www.eaton.com; DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office, www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Eaton Corp,  SETO,  U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies ,  

Broc Oil, REGI,B20
Date: 2019-12-20
In the Bay State, Haverhill-headquartered Broco Oil reports it has contracted to provide Renewable Energy Group (REGI) produced biodiesel-blended heating oil to Boston city-owned buildings and municipal facilities.

Under its contract, Broco will deliver an estimated 90,000 gpy of B-20 heating oil that will reduce the City's CO2 equivalent (CO2e) building emissions by 322,560 ppy -- equivalent GHG emissions of 357,728 passenger vehicle miles according to the U.S. EPA. (Source: Broco Oil, PR, 17 Dec., 2019) Contact: Broc Oil, www.brocoil.com: Renewable Energy Group, Marc MacLean, 603-812-1248, marc.maclean@regi.com, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  Biodiesel Blend,  B20,  Renewable Energy Group,  B20 ,  

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities
Date: 2019-12-20
On December 6, 2019, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) issued an order effective December 16, 2019, establishing a Solar Transition Incentive Program (TREC), the key provisions of the Order are as follows:

The TREC Program will be available to all solar projects that submitted complete SREC Registration (SRP) Applications after October 29, 2018 that have yet to commence operations but otherwise remain in good standing in the SRP pipeline at the time the BPU determines that 5.1 pct of all electricity sold in New Jersey comes from solar generation;

All TREC Program projects will generate a factored Transition Renewable Energy Certificate for each MWh of electricity generated;

TRECs will be generated for 15 years and will be purchased by a TREC Administrator who will allocate the TRECs amongst the load serving entities;

The Clean Energy Act of 2018 established a cap that prohibits the cost of Class 1 RECs (excluding the cost of offshore wind RECs), which includes the TREC, from amounting to more than 9 pct of the total electric sales during Energy Years 2020 and 2021, and amounting to more than 7 pct of total electric sales during subsequent energy years;

The TREC is valued at $65 for energy years 2021, 2022 and 2023, and $189 for each remaining energy year of the projects' 15 year TREC eligibility. The BPU will provide further guidance as to whether the TREC value will remain as set forth above or will be changed to a flat $152 for all 15 years of generation eligibility;

TRECs may be sold in the energy year (June 1 -- May 31) in which they are generated and the following energy year. If the TREC is not sold within the applicable window, they may be sold as Class 1 RECs.

The order now provides some certainty to solar developers and will provide a transition program until the BPU establishes a new long-term incentive program. (Source: NJ BPU, Dec., 2019) Contact: New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, 800-624-0241, www.bpu.state.nj.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Solar Incentive,  New Jersey Board of Public Utilities ,  

BuildSmartNY ,New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
Date: 2019-12-20
In Albany, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees reports approval of $1.5 billion over seven years in additional program funding for energy efficiency as part of the Governor's BuildSmartNY program.

The funding will support a wide variety of energy technology and renewable energy services, including energy audits, project engineering, design, installation and construction management. This strategic support will ensure that NYPA continues to meets its goal of substantially reducing energy usage by investing $300 million annually on energy efficiency and renewable measures at public facilities.

BuildSmartNY energy efficiency projects include high efficiency lighting retrofits, occupancy and day-lighting and lighting sensors, building and energy management systems, boilers, chillers, air-handling systems, thermal storage, micro-grids, solar photovoltaic systems, digester gas systems, and emerging energy technologies.

Over the last 20 years, the NYPA has approved nearly $4 billion in spending on energy efficiency and energy saving projects statewide. (Source: Office of NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo, RE Mag., 19 Dec., 2019)Contact: NYPA, Gil C. Quiniones, CEO , Pres., www.nypa.gov; BuildSmartNY, www.buildsmart.ny.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News BuildSmartNY,  NYPA,  Cuomo,  Energy Efficiency Funding,  Energy Efficiency,  

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2019-12-18
In the capital city of Ljubljana, the Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology has published a call for tenders for tourism industry micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in a push to increase material and energy efficiency.

The €22.6 million scheme is for cofinancing renewable energy and energy efficiency projects undertaken by registered companies, proprietorships and limited liability cooperatives engaged in the hotels, inns and similar accommodation industries. The program covers costs in energy renovation of buildings and material efficiency, information and communication and outsourcing services. Funds are awarded as "de minimis" state aid, as regulated by the European Union. (Source: Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, Balkan Green Energy News, 17 Dec., 2019) Contact: Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, www.gov.sl

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Gulf Pacific Power
Date: 2019-12-18
Alabama-headquartered Harbert Management Corporation (HMC) reports Gulf Pacific Power, LLC (GPP) has acquired an 80 pct stake in Enel Green Power North America Inc. (EGPNA) Renewable Energy Holdings' 812 MW portfolio of five operating wind projects in the U.S. and Canada.

GPP formed Gulf Plains Wind, LLC to acquire the interest in REP from GE Energy Financial Services and from (EGPNA) which has retained a 20 pct stake in REP and will continue to operate the Portfolio. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The Portfolio includes the 235 MW Chisholm View facility in Grant and Garfield Counties, Oklahoma; the 200 MW Prairie Rose facility in Rock and Pipestone Counties, Minnesota; the 200 MW Goodwell facility in Texas County, Oklahoma; the 150 MW Origin facility in Murray and Carter Counties, Oklahoma; and the 27 MW St. Lawrence facility in Newfoundland, Canada, all of which have term PPAs in place.

Hogan Lovells acted as legal counsel and CohnReznick Capital acted as financial advisor to GPP on the transaction. (Source: Harbert Management Corporation, PR, 18 Dec., 2019) Contact: HMC, (205) 987-5500, ir@harbert.net, www.harbert.net; Gulf Pacific Power, https://privatefunddata.com/private-funds/gulf-pacific-power-llc

More Low-Carbon Energy News Gulf Pacific Power,  Wind,  

National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Date: 2019-12-18
Researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are reporting discovery of a novel oxygenate molecule that can be produced from biomass to be used as a blend for diesel fuel. The initiative focuses on improving fuel economy and vehicle performance while reducing emissions.

The team used corn stover-derived molecules as the starting point for a range of potential fuel candidates. From here, the researchers relied on predictive models to determine which molecules would be best to blend with and improve traditional diesel. With the goal of developing drop-in biofuels that work with existing infrastructure. The intention is to blend the 4-butoxyheptane molecule into diesel fuel at a mixture of 20 - 30 pct Initial results suggest the potential to improve ignition quality, reduce sooting and improve fuel economy of the base diesel at these blend levels.

NREL is working with Yale University, Argonne National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory as part of the US DOE Co-Optimization of Fuels and Engines (Co-Optima) initiative which is funded by the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy's Bioenergy Technologies.

Performance-Advantaged Ether Diesel Bioblendstock Production by a Priori Design, the initiative's research paper was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. (Source: NREL,PR, Dec., 2019) Contact: NREL, Derek Vardon, Senior Research Engineer, (303) 384-7763, Derek.Vardon@nrel.gov, www.nrel.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Renewable Energy Laboratory,  

Costa Rica
Date: 2019-12-18
In Costa Rica, the Costa Rica National Center for Energy Control (CENCE) reports the National Electric System (SEN) added more than 99 pct more renewable power generation from run-of-river water, wind, geothermal energy, biomass and solar energy in 2018.

Since 2015, Costa Rica has exceeded 98 pct of electricity generation with clean resources. Presently, Costa Rica has 18 wind plants managed by public, private, municipal and cooperative companies as well as the third-largest geothermal park on the continent with 262 mw. (Source: National Center for Energy Control, PR, bnamericas, 16 Dec., 2019) Contact: Costa Rica National Center for Energy Control, www.energetskiportal.rs/en/tag/costa-ricas-national-centre-for-energy-control-cence

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,