Tata Power
Date: 2020-03-20
In India, Mumbai-based Tata Power subsidiary Tata Power Solar reports it is now offering its rooftop solar intallations and related services in 90 Indian cities. To date, the company has installed more than 375 MW of rooftop projects and 2.76 GW of utility-scale projects in 13 states. (Source: Tata Power, Various Media, 19 Mar., 2020)Contact: Tata Power Solar, www.tatapowersolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tata Power,  Solar,  Solar India,  Rooftop Solar,  

Virginia Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-03-11
In the Old Dominion State, the recently passed Virginia Clean Economy Act will create a state Renewable Energy Portfolio program requiring 30 pct or more of Virginia's electricity comes from renewable energy sources by 2030. By 2050, the Act requires that 100 pct of the state's electricity will be zero-emissions.

The Act includes measures to harness wind and solar power, expand home rooftop solar and reduce energy waste through mandatory efficiency standards. The act also sets a 5.2-gigawatt offshore wind power target, one of the largest state commitments to offshore wind to date and one with the potential to power up to 1.5 million Virginia homes. The Act also confirms the Old Dominion State's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) cap-and-invest program, which to date has provided net benefits of over $4 billion to participating members, while helping them slash carbon emissions over 50 pct. (Source: PR, Mar., 2020)

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

Australia
Date: 2020-03-09
In the Land Down Under, the Liberal government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison is touting the launch of a $350 million initiative to lead the energy grid away from fossil fuel, promote renewable energy and cut carbon emissions. It will also invest $68.5 million to create the Reliable Affordable Clean Energy for 2030 Co-operative Research Centre (RACE for 2030). And, in what seems a contradiction, the government will also fund a $4 million investigation of the economic case for a new coal-fired power station in north Queensland State.

Working with private industry, RACE for 2030 will fund research into a "distributed grid"; a national strategy for charging stations required under the forecast growth in electric vehicles; harnessing rooftop solar and paying householders for their energy; and trial community scale micro-electricity grids.

Under the Paris Agreement, Australia committed to reducing emissions by at least 26 pct on 2005 levels by 2030, but may have to use "carryover" credits gained under the previous Kyoto Protocol to achieve half of its Paris target, according to the Brisbane Times report. (Source: Various Media, Brisbane Times, 8 Mar., 2020) Contact: Office of Prime Minister Scott Morrison, twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP

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

Virginia Tech
Date: 2020-02-28
In the Old Dominion Sate, Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg reports approval of more than $3.1 million for the 5th phase of the school's ongoing Five-Year Energy Action Plan, a comprehensive blueprint to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption and costs within five years.

One of the cornerstones of the Energy Action Plan is leveraging data to optimize energy usage to achieve energy efficiency at scale on campus. Ten new buildings are added to the university's energy management platform during each phase. Proposed projects under Phase 5 (2019-20) of the Energy Action Plan include:

LED lighting overhaul in a range of buildings

Lab ventilation optimization and retro-commissioning of HVAC energy systems

Power plant compressed air system optimization

Integration of 10 additional energy-intensive

buildings into the university's energy management platform

Ongoing smart metering, meter replacement and maintenance, and

Implementation of a rooftop solar project at the Sterrett Facilities Complex. (Source: Virginia Tech, 25 Feb., 2020) Contact: Virginia Tech, Office of Energy Management, Christopher H. Kiwus, Associate VP, Chief Facilities Officer, 540-231-4300 www.facilities.vt.edu/energy-utilities/energy-reduction-efforts.html, www.vt.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Virginia Tech,  Energy Efficiency ,  

California Rooftop Solar
Date: 2020-02-26
Following up on our Dec. 18, 2019 coverage, the California Energy Commission (CEC) reports it has approved a proposal to amend its mandatory new building rooftop solar program to allow some new Sacramento housing developments to use offsite "community" solar in place of individual building rooftop solar installations.

The new solar rules were approved by the legislature and former California Governor Jerry Brown in 2018, making California the first state to mandate solar. The California Energy Commission (CEC) estimates the new mandates will add about $9,500 to the price of an average house while saving roughly $19,000 in reduced energy bills over 30 years. (Source: California Energy Commission, CalMatters, 23 Feb., 2020) Contact: California Energy Commission, (916) 465-4500, www.energy.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rooftop Solar,  California Rooftop Solar,  Soalr,  Rooftop Solar,  California Energy Commission,  

Safari Energy,Extra Space Storage
Date: 2020-02-03
New York City-based commercial solar developer Safari Energy is reporting completion of its 100th solar projects with Extra Space Storage. Spanning over a dozen states and more than 10 MW of capacity, the projects have, to date, produced more than 33 GWh of solar power, the equivalent of offsetting emissions from 5,000 cars driven each year.

Since 2008, Safari Energy has developed hundreds of commercial-scale solar projects that have generated approximately 300 million kWh of electricity, the largest project being a 531 kW rooftop solar system in Central Valley, New York.

Safari Energy also provides funding for solar projects developed by partners and clients throughout the project life-cycle. (Source: Safari Energy, PR, 31 Jan., 2020) Contact: Safari Energy, John Lind, Bus. Dev., 212-935-2500, info@safarienergy.com, www.safarienergy.com; Extra Space Storage, Joe Margolis, CEO, (888) 609-8483, www.extraspace.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Safari Energy,  Solar,  Energy Storage,  

Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation
Date: 2020-01-22
The Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP), a Saudi multilateral development bank, is reporting a contract with Dubai-based solar energy and energy efficiency specialist Yellow Door Energy (YDE) for the installation of rooftop solar panels at its headquarters in Dammam.

The solar installation is expected to generate up to 718 MWh of power and cut energy consumption by 35 pct when completed later this year.

YDE is reported to have more than 100 MW of solar assets under development in the UAE, Jordan, Pakistan and Egypt. (Source: APICORP, Renewables, 21 Jan., 2020) Contact: APICORP, www.apicorp.org; Yellow Door Energy, +971 4 454 3033, www.yellowdoorenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation ,  Solar,  Yellow Door Energy,  

New York City
Date: 2020-01-13
In the Big Apple, under recently enacted Climate Mobilization Act legislation, any roof undergoing major construction must now host either solar photovoltaic (PV) panels or a vegetation covered "green" roof system. Construction projects affected include new construction, vertical and horizontal extensions, and major modifications to any roof requiring a permit.

Buildings are responsible for more than 70 pct of greenhouse gas emissions in NYC, according to the Climate Mobilization Act. (Source: silive, 12 Jan., 2020) Contact: NYC Climate Mobilization Act, www.council.nyc.gov/data/green

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Roof,  Solar,  Rooftop Solar,  NYC Solar,  

BOSCH,NEFIN
Date: 2020-01-10
Bosch Automotive Aftermarket (China) Co., Ltd., in partnership with solar developer NEFIN, is reporting completion of the first phase of its solar photovoltaic project at its Nanjing plant.

The project is divided into two phases, the first phase of which began in Aug, 2019, and incorporates 17,422 ground and roof-mounted solar modules producing 7,700,000 kWh solar energy per annum .

Founded by core management team of DuPont Solar Business, legal experts and investment bankers, NEFIN has collectively delivered over 180MW of utility-scale, commercial and industrial rooftop solar systems worldwide. (Source: Viet Nam News, MediaOutreach, 8 Jan., 2020) Contact: NEFIN, nefinco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

California Rooftop Solar
Date: 2019-12-18
In the Golden State, on Jan. 1, new state building codes requiring all new new homes constructed in the state to include solar collection panels will come into force on Jan. 1, 2010.

The new solar rules were approved by the legislature and former California Governor Jerry Brown in 2018, making California the first state to mandate solar. The California Energy Commission (CEC) estimates the new mandates will add about $9,500 to the price of an average house while saving roughly $19,000 in reduced energy bills over 30 years. (Source: CEC, CBS SF Bay, 16 Dec., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Jerry Brown,  Solar,  California Rooftop Solar,  

NV Energy
Date: 2019-12-06
In Las Vegas, the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUC) reports approval of NV Energy's Integrated Resource Plan to bring three projects totaling an additional 1,190 MW of new solar renewable energy projects to the state -- sufficient power for 230,000 homes -- and an additional 590 megawatts of energy storage capacity. The three new projects include:

Arrow Canyon Solar Project -- 200 mw solar photovoltaic project with a 75 mw -- 5 hour battery storage system being developed by EDF Renewables North America.

Southern Bighorn Solar & Storage Center -- 300 mw solar array that includes a 135 mw-4 hour Li-Ion battery energy storage system being developed by 8minute Solar Energy.

Gemini Solar + Battery Storage Project -- 690 mw solar PV array coupled with a 380 mw AC battery storage system in Clark County being developed by Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners in collaboration with Arevia Power.

The projects, which are expected to be online prior to January 1, 2024, will double NV Energy's renewable energy resources portfolio to include 57 geothermal, solar, hydro, wind, biomass and supported rooftop solar projects both in service and under development. (Source: NV Energy, PR, 5 Dec., 2019) Contact: NV Energy, Doug Cannon, Pres., CEO, Kristen Saibini, Corporate Communications,, 775-834-3891, ksaibini@nvenergy.com, www.nvenergy.com

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

sPower,Borrego Solar
Date: 2019-12-02
Six Flags Entertainment Corp. is reporting its Six Flags Discovery Kingdom theme park, in partnership with Salt Lake City-based sPower and Borrego Solar Systems, has switched to 80 pct solar power.

The project includes a 7.5 megawatt solar carport rooftop solar array producing 11.9 million kWh of energy annually. The installation will offset 8,400 tpy of CO2 equivalents each year, which is the same as taking 1,800 cars off the road.

sPower is owned by a joint venture partnership between The AES Corporation (AES), a worldwide energy company headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and the Alberta Investment Management Corporation. (Source: Six Flags, Businesswire, PR, 30 Nov., 2019) Contact: Six Flags, www.sixflags.com; Borrego Solar, www.borregosolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News sPower,  Borrego Solar ,  Solar,  

Traverse City Light & Power
Date: 2019-12-02
In Michigan, Traverse City Light & Power (TCL&P) reports its Board of Directors has approved a resolution seeking a $1.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Rural Development's Rural Energy Savings Program.

If granted, the funds would support TCL&P's on-bill financing program allowing customers to borrow up to $30,000 at no interest for 10 years for renewable energy and energy efficiency installations and upgrades. The repayment, plus a $5 administration fee, would be secured through a lien on the property and added to the customer's monthly power billing.

Qualifying borrowers could use the money for everything from insulation upgrades to new windows to renewable energy projects like rooftop solar, as previously reported.

TCL&P executive director Tim Arends previously touted the idea as a way to help curb the utility's peak energy demand. The USDA gave tentative approval to the utility's application, as previously reported. (Source: Traverse City Light & Power, Traverse City Record Eagle, 1 Dec., 2019)Contact: Traverse City Light & Power, Tim Arends, 231-922-4940, www.tclp.org

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

US Green Building Council
Date: 2019-11-20
The University of Illinois - Urbana is reporting receipt of its 21st US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification for its recently completed $98 million Electrical and Computer Engineering Building. The UI campus claims 4 Platinum, 10 Gold and 7 Silver certified buildings.

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Building was cited for: sustainable site development; construction and waste management; water savings; energy efficiency; materials selection; a $3 million rooftop solar array with 950 panels; stormwater storage system; passive heating and cooling features; and various other energy efficient features. (Source: University of Illinois, Champaign/Urbana News-Gazette, 18 Nov., 2019) Contact: US Green Building Council, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Green Building Council,  LEED Certification,  Energy Efficiency,  

Date: 2019-11-13
In Denver, the Auraria Sustainable Campus Program (ASCP), in partnership with the Auraria Higher Education Center (AHEC) and Namaste Solar of Boulder are reporting the near completion of a 779 kW solar array installation -- the largest single-roof solar array in downtown Denver -- atop the Auraria Library.

The 2,100-panel array will produce roughly 1 million kWh per year -- sufficient power for 2.5 pct of the annual campus-wide power consumption and increasing the Auraria Campus solar capacity to 854 kW.

Namaste Solar designs, installs, and maintains solar electric systems for homeowners, commercial property owners, and utility-scale developers. (Source: Auraria Higher Education Center, PR, Nov., 2019) Contact: Auraria Higher Education Center, Jane Hood , (303) 556.3441, jane.hood@ahec.edu, www.ahec.edu; Namaste Solar, Elliot Abel, Dir of Dev., www.namastesolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

Sunrun
Date: 2019-09-04
In Chicago, not-for-profit environmental and economic development organization Blacks in Green (BIG) reports it is partnering with residential solar, battery energy storage and energy services company, Sunrun, to expand access to solar energy and jobs in the Chicago area. The partnership aims to to increase opportunities for Southside Chicago homeowners to access solar energy and to increase clean energy career opportunities for residents in traditionally under-served and underrepresented communities.

Under the partnership, Sunrun commits to recruit solar trainees from the BIG network and support BIG at educational events throughout the community so residents can learn about rooftop solar, including the Illinois "Solar for All" low-income solar program to increase access to solar energy for underserved communities. (Source: Blacks in Green, Sunrun, Chiago Defender, 2 Sept., 2019) Contact: Blacks in Green, Naomi Davis, Pres., www.blacksingreen.org; SunRun, Lynn Jurich, CEO, Patrick Jobin, VP, Finance & Investor Relations, (415) 510-4986, investors@sunrun.com, www.sunrun.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Sunrun,  

Tesla
Date: 2019-08-21
Tesla announced through a series of tweets byTesla CEO Elon Musk, using social media as his messenger, has re-launched its Tesla Solar business by offering "cookie-cutter" solar systems to rent in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New Mexico. The rental options range from roughly $65 to $195 per month the following sized unites: Small -- 3.8 kW, ideal for a 1,000- to 2,000-sq-ft home; Medium -- 7.6 kW, ideal for a 2,000- to 3,000-sq-ft home; and Large -- 11.4 kW, ideal for a 3,000+-sq-ft home.

There is no upfront installation cost, no long-term contract, and the monthly rental payment can be canceled at any time. If homeowners want to remove the rented solar system, it will cost $1,500. There is no specification of what happens to the system if homeowners don't want to remove it but also don't want to pay the monthly rental fee. A Powerwall battery unit is not included but can be purchased -- not rented -- separately. (Source: Tesla, Various Social Media, Aug., 2019) Contact: Tesla, www.tesla.com/solar

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tesla,  Solar,  Tesla Solar,  

Lincoln Land Community College,WindSolarUSA
Date: 2019-08-05
In Illinois, the Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield reports it is working with Springfield-based WindSolarUSA and Senergy Electric on the installation of rooftop solar arrays at its Jacksonville and Litchfield campuses.

The Jacksonville campus installation is expected to start immediately for completion in mid-September. The project in Litchfield is presently underway and near completion. When fully operational, the solar installations are expected to offset 75 pct of the school's electrical consumption in Jacksonville and 95 pct in Litchfield. The college expects more than $100,000 in program incentive payments for each of the projects over a period of five years to help cover the cost of installation.

The project is a part of the Illinois Power Agency's Adjustable Block Program, which provides incentives for solar photovoltaic systems to help the state reach its goal of producing 25 pct of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2025. Source: Lincoln Land Community College, LMTonline, 1 Aug., 2019) Contact: Lincoln Land Community College, Tim Ervin, Dir. Construction and Environmental Health and Safety, 217-786-2200, www.llcc.edu; WindSolarUSA, (217) 825-4206, www.windsolarusa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Rooftop Solar,  WindSolarUSA,  

Portland General Electric
Date: 2019-07-31
In Oregon, Portland General Electric (PGE) is reporting the launch of a test bed pilot program in three neighborhoods aimed at encouraging residential and business customers to be more proactive in monitoring their energy consumption and cultivating good energy use habits.

As part of the test pilot, residential customers will be given incentives for using smart-home technologies as well as rebates for shifting their energy use during off-peak times. Commercial customers, meanwhile, will have the option of enrolling in PGE's Energy Partner Smart Thermostat program, which offers free thermostats and installation to qualifying businesses. The program will also give payments for businesses participating in load-control events. Other potential energy-saving opportunities include incentives for customers using rooftop solar or smart devices such as thermostats, water heaters and electric vehicle chargers and batteries.

PGE worked the Rocky Mountain Institute and an advisory panel to develop the program. PGE will also utilize the advanced communications capabilities and distribution system upgrades in three Oregon cities: Hillsboro, Portland and Milwaukie which have remote controls and other smart grid technologies installed to increase system reliability.

The launch of the test pilot comes as PGE submitted a new integrated resource plan to the Oregon PUC for approval to add more renewable power, increase energy efficiency and partner with customers to balance energy consumption during peak demand periods. (Source: PGE, PR, Daily Energy Insider, 30 July, 2019) Contact: PGE, Maria Pope, CEO, Steve Corson, (503) 464-8444, www.portlandgeneral.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Portland General Electric,  Energy Consumption,  Energy Use,  Energy Efficiency,  

Artisun Solar
Date: 2019-07-19
In the Show Me State, the Boulevard Brewing Company is reporting Artisun Solar has completed the installation of a 200-kW rooftop solar array at its Kansas City brewery facility.

The new solar installation was financed with CleanView Capital and is additional to Boulevard's existing solar portfolio. (Source: Boulevard Brewing Company, ClearView Capital, PV World, 17 July, 2019) Contact: Boulevard Brewing Company, www.boulevard.com; Artisun Solar, Kirk Kreisel, Pres., 816-265-1786, info@artisunsolar.com, www.artisunsolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Artisun Solar,  Solar,  

Rooftop Solar
Date: 2019-07-17
In Alaska, the municipality of Anchorage has unveiled the state's largest, and the municipality's first, rooftop solar project at the Egan Civic and Convention Center.

The array's 216 solar panels are expected to generate sufficient power for up to 10 pct of the convention center's annual electric power consumption and to save the center between $20,000 and $25,000 per year in energy costs. The $200,000 installation was handled by Arctic Solar Ventures. (Source: Municipality of Anchorage, AP, KSFA-FM, July, 2019) Contact: Municipality of Anchorage, www.muni.org; Arctic Solar Ventures, Stephen Trimble, CEO, 907-268-4188, www.arcticsolarventures.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rooftop Solar,  

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

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

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

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

Sunworks,Bright Power
Date: 2019-07-12
Roseville, California-based solar power specialist Sunworks, Inc. reports receipt of an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract from Bright Power to develop a 567 kilowatt roof-top solar PV project for a Northern California residential complex.

Bright Power, which specializes in multifamily apartment buildings, works with building owners to increase their net operating income through energy and water savings while decreasing negative impact on the environment. The project is slated for completion in Q4, 2020. (Source: Sunworks, PR, Yahoo, 11 July, 2019) Contact: Bright Power Inc., 212.803.5868, 415.914.7171, www.brightpower.com, Sunworks, Chuck Cargile, CEO, (866) 600-6800, www.sunworksusa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Rooftop Solar,  Sunworks,  Solar,  Bright Power,  

NV Energy
Date: 2019-06-26
In the Silver State, Las Vegas-based NV Energy reports it will seek Nevada PUC approval for the addition of nearly 1,200 MW of new solar PV generation along with 590 MW of battery storage to be added to its energy mix in the form of three projects in southern Nevada. With the addition of these new projects, NV Energy will double its renewable energy by 2023.

Each of the three announced projects -- the 200-mw Arrow Canyon Solar Project with a 75 mw battery storage system; the 300-mw Southern Bighorn Solar & Storage Center with 135-mw Li-Ion battery energy storage system; and the 690-mw Gemini Solar + Battery Storage Project with a 380 mw AC battery storage system -- are expected to be online by the end of 2023.

NV Energy's current portfolio includes 57 geothermal, solar, hydro, wind, biomass and supported rooftop solar projects both in service and under development. (Source: NV Energy, PR, 24 June, 2019) Contact: NV Energy, Doug Cameron, CEO, Pres., www.nvenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News NV Energy,  Solar,  

Tesco
Date: 2019-06-21
In the UK, SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust (SEEIT) reports it will install 5 MW of rooftop solar at retail grocery chain Tesco stores across the country.

Under the deal, SEEIT will install, own, and operate up to 5MW of new rooftop solar capacity at Tesco buildings across the UK, with the retailer drawing down the power via a PPA for each site. Renewables developer Kingspan will collaborate on financing, building and operating the sites. Financial terms for the deal were not disclosed.

Tesco is targeting a switch to 100 pct renewable electricity by 2030, as part of its Science-Based Target to reach net zero emissions by 2050. (Source: TESCO, BusinessGreen, 20 June, 2019) Contact: SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust, Jonathan Maxwell, CEO, www.sdcleeit.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Tesco,  Solar,  

Chapel Hill Town Council
Date: 2019-05-13
In North Carolina, the Chapel Hill Town Council reports it is considering a petition from the Environmental Stewardship Advisory Board requiring all new building construction and renovations in Chapel Hill to install roof-mounted solar energy systems. The petition would cover over 80 percent of eligible roof areas, including all sunshade flat roofs and pitched roofs facing between southeast to southwest.

According to the mayor, the town should offer a range of different options as well as incentives for owners of existing properties to convert to solar and other renewable energy options. (Source: Chapel Hill Town Council, Chapelboro.com, 12 May, 2019) Contact: Chapel Hill Town Council, (919) 968-2757, www.townofchapelhill.org/town-hall/government/mayor-council

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Rooftop Solar,  

Green Mountain Energy
Date: 2019-04-22
In the Lone Star State, Houston-headquartered Green Mountain Energy and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) have announced the completion of solar installations totaling more than 67 KW producing over 95,000 kWh pf power at three state parks across Texas as part of their ongoing sustainability partnership.

Previously, Green Mountain Energy provided a 21 KW rooftop solar array at TPWD's Sea Center Texas, a marine aquarium, fish hatchery and nature center. Additionally, the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club made a $40,000 donation to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to help purchase and install a 11.2 KW solar array on the park's welcome center.

According to the company's website, "Green Mountain Energy Company is the nation's longest serving renewable energy retailer and believes in using wind, sun and water for good. The company was founded in 1997 with a simple mission: to change the way power is made. Green Mountain offers consumers and businesses the choice of cleaner electricity products from renewable sources, as well as a variety of carbon offset products and sustainable solutions for businesses. Green Mountain customers have collectively helped avoid more than 63 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions." (Source: Green Mountain Energy, April, 2019) Contact: Green Mountain Energy, www.greenmountainenergy.com; TPWD, www.tpwd.texas.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Mountain Energy,  Solar,  

Etihad Esco
Date: 2019-04-22
Etihad Esco, the Dubai-based energy efficiency company, is reporting Dubai is expected to roll out an efficiency programme targeting industry by 2021. Energy efficiency programmes have gained traction in the Middle East, with the UAE and now Saudi Arabia looking to generate higher energy savings.

To that end, Etihad Esco had set targets of 20 pct energy savings by 2021 and 30 pct by 2030 and is is eyeing Dh500 million ($136,127million) worth of energy savings by 2030 primarily from rooftop solar.

Over the last decade, Dubai has saved about Dh1.2 billion through efforts to conserve electricity and water, and plans to reduce carbon emissions by 16 pct cent by 2021 as well as energy and water use by 30 per cent by 2030, according to Dubai Electricity and Water Authority.

Etihad Esco currently has projects worth $250 million in the works with schemes worth between $150 million and $200 million planned for 2019. Etihad Esco is also looking at opportunities in Saudi Arabia, where it recently signed an agreement with holding company Vision Invest to establish a joint entity to provide energy efficiency solutions in the kingdom. (Source: Etihad Esco, The National, April 20, 2019) Contact: Etihad Esco, Ali Al Jassim, CEO, www.etihadesco.ae

More Low-Carbon Energy News Etihad Esco,  Energy Efficiency,  

Ameresco
Date: 2019-02-22
In the Golden State, National City -- in the San Diego metropolitan area -- reports it is set to launch a citywide energy and water conservation project expected to save $5.6 million in energy costs over the next 25 years.

The project is being funded by a $1.8 million bond designed to allow public agencies to finance renewable energy projects and took out a $3.7 million tax-exempt lease to pay for the project upfront. The city plans to pay off the lease and bond over the next 25 years with the savings generated by the lower consumption of energy and water at the 12 city facilities included in the project.

The project work to be completed includes:

Rooftop solar panels installed at City Hall, the police station, the public library, a fire station, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Community and ARTS centers;

Low-flush toilets and urinals put in place in restrooms at almost all of the 12 facilities, including Las Palmas and Kimball parks and the Kimball Senior and Manuel Portillo Casa de Salud Youth centers;

Upgraded heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment at almost all locations, excluding Las Palmas and Kimball parks;

Irrigation controllers at eight facilities, excluding the Kimball Senior Center, Fire Station 34, the Public Works Department and the Casa de Salud Center.

The project , which is expected to get under before the month end, has been in the works since 2014, when the city partnered with Framingham, Mass.-based energy efficiency specialist Ameresco , which will carryout the project work. (Source: San Diego Union Tribune, 21 Feb., 2019) Contact: Ameresco (508) 661-2288, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Energy Efficiency,  Energy Conservation,  

Consumers Energy
Date: 2019-02-20
Jackson, Michigan-headquartered Consumers Energy is touting plans for the Jackson Smart Energy District, an efficient, affordable, clean energy hub aiming to achieve the utility's 2040 Clean Energy goals 15 to 20 years ahead of schedule.

To that end, Consumers will work with private businesses and the city of Jackson to reduce the four square block Jackson Smart Energy District's carbon emissions by 90 pct by using on-site solar panels, battery energy storage, energy management, EV charging and advanced energy efficiency technologies.

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest energy provider, recently dedicated Michigan's first rooftop solar array and battery storage system in the Circuit West energy district of Grand Rapids.

Consumers Energy, the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy, supplies natural gas and/or electricity to 6.7 million Michigan residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. (Source: Consumers Energy, PR, 19 Feb., 2019) Contact: Consumers Energy, www.ConsumersEnergy.com, www.ConsumersEnergy.com/jacksonenergydistrict

More Low-Carbon Energy News Consumers Energy ,  

Sonnen,Shell Overseas Investment
Date: 2019-02-18
Oil giant Shell Overseas Investment B.V. -- Shell New Energies reports it will acquire German battery maker Sonnen and roll it into a wholly owned subsidiary that will accelerate both company's integrated energy services and electric vehicle charging solutions. As previously reported Shell invested in Sonnen in 2018.

According to Sonnen, 40,000 of its SonnenBatterie systems have been installed world wide, 3,000 of which are in Australia. Sonnen was the first battery manufacturer to participate in South Australia's Home Battery Scheme and the company has set up battery assembly operations in Adelaide.

Sonnen provides battery storage systems to households with rooftop solar panels in Germany, Europe's biggest solar market, in the areas of charging infrastructure and battery storage. (Source: Shell, SolarQuotes Blob, 18 Feb., 2019) Contact: Shell New Energies, www.shell.ca/en_ca/energy-and-innovation/new-energies.html; Sonnen Inc., www.sonnen-batterie.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sonnen,  Battery,  Solar Battery,  Energy Storage,  Shell,  

Providence Office of Sustainability
Date: 2019-01-30
In Rhode Island, the City of Providence Office of Sustainability is projecting that the city of 180,000 residents will see 9 feet of sea-level rise by 2100 and the city's climate will equal south Florida's average temperature of 80.3 degrees F.

To deal with that eventuality, the city has developed a Climate Justice Plan that pledges to make the city carbon neutral by 2050. To meet that goalthe city plans to slash building emissions which alone account for 71 pct of emissions in Providence. To reduce electricity use, the plan proposes a wholesale switch to renewable energy by 2050. This includes expanding rooftop solar installations, local microgrids, battery backup, and regional renewable energy power-purchase agreements. Emissions from heating will be reduced with enhanced energy-efficiency standards, green building codes, and the phasing out natural-gas use, according to the plan.

The Climate Justice Plan guarantees "social equity" to ensure that all of the city's business and residential regions benefit equally from climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and programs. .The plan was developed with input from the city's Racial and Environmental Justice Committee, a collaboration between the city, the Environmental Justice League of Rhode Island, and Groundwork Rhode Island.

The Climate Justice Plan proposes cleaning up the port by reducing emissions from vessels and eliminating the import and storage of hazardous and polluting material by 2040. A fee on fossil fuels shipped to the port and emissions produced there would be spent on environmental justice needs and climate-change adaptation along the waterfront.

Download Climate Justice Plan details HERE. (Source: Providence Office of Sustainability, ecoRI, 28 Jan., 2019) Contact: Providence Office of Sustainability, 401-680-5000, www.providenceri.gov/sustainability

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  

UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
Date: 2019-01-16
In London, the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) reports the release of its proposed guidelines intended to support the development of small-scale renewable energy technologies by ensuring remuneration for any and all electricity generated that is supplied to the grid by small-scale generators.

The proposed Smart Export Guarantee is intended to improve and replace existing Feed-in Tariff (FiT) schemes and a Generator Export Tariff incentive scheme for small-scale generators to supply electricity to the grid. Both schemes expire on 31 March,2019.

Those most obviously affected by such a shift are rooftop solar owners, but the UK boasts approximately 560,000 households and businesses generating small-scale electricity under the FiT scheme using a range of technologies including biomass anaerobic digestion, ,wind power and hydro-electricity.

The proposed Guarantee would specifically replace the FiT scheme and would require electricity suppliers to pay new small-scale energy producers for excess electricity generated from homes and businesses which is supplied to the grid. (Source: UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, CleanTechnica, 13 Jan., 2019) Contact: UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, https://www.gov.uk/.../department-for-business-energy-and-industrial-strategy

More Low-Carbon Energy News UK Department for Business,  Energy and Industrial Strategy ,  

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development
Date: 2019-01-14
The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the leading national entity for international development aid, reports the signing of a $10 million concessionary loan agreement with the Government of Mauritius to fund a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) kits project. The project, which aims to provide 10,000 solar PV kits to low-income communities, is being financed through the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility.

The project will contribute to Mauritius achieving its national goal of 35 pct renewable electricity by 2025.

Since 1971, ADFD has financed development projects in 88 countries across the globe, including 40 African nations. (Source: ADFD, arabianindustry.com, 13 Jan., 2019) Contact: ADFD, Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General , www.adfd.ae/english/Pages/Home.aspx

More Low-Carbon Energy News Abu Dhabi Fund for Development ,  Solar,  Rooftop Solar,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2019-01-11
Duke Energy North Carolina is reporting its $62 million rebate program in North Carolina is driving both residential and commercial solar adoption statewide.

Duke Energy claimed 5,000 rooftop solar customers in Jan, 2019, but now has approximately 9,000. Since January 2, 2019, the company's solar rebate program has received more than 2,000 applications.

The rebate program helps customers with the upfront costs of installing on-site solar. With the program, nonresidential customers are eligible for a rebate of 50 cents per watt. Church, scholl, and other Nonprofit customers are eligible for 75 cents per watt for systems of 100 kW or less. Installed systems 100 kW or greater are eligible for a maximum rebate of $50,000 for nonresidential customers, or $75,000 for nonprofit customers. Customers also have a solar leasing option. (Source: Duke Energy, Energy Manager, Jan., 2019)Contact: Duke Energy, www.duke-energy.com; Rebate details www.duke-energy.com/home/products/renewable-energy/nc-solar-rebates

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Solar,  Solar Rebatesa,  

Hawaiian Electric Companies
Date: 2019-01-02
Reporting from Honolulu, the Hawaiian Electric Companies (HECO) -- Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light -- notes that in 10 years since the creation of the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative, the companies have reduced fossil fuel use by 26 pct, or 48 million fewer gpy of imported oil for electric power generation.

HECO also reports nearly 3,000 new private rooftop solar systems came online in 2018 for a total of about 77,000 systems -- one of every three single-family homes on Oahu has rooftop solar, the highest percentage in the U.S.

In 2018, the HECO companies also laid the foundation for the largest surge in renewable energy in Hawaii history with solar-plus-storage projects and a major wind project that together, pending regulatory approval, will add 325 MW of clean electric generation across the islands of Oahu, Maui, Molokai and Hawaii. Two solar-plus-storage projects on Maui and two on Hawaii Island will be the largest grid-scale solar facilities on those islands and are in addition to nearly 200 MW of new renewable generation planned or presently under construction.

Many Hawaii residents hope to join the 77,000-plus customers using private rooftop solar and the HECO continue working to make that choice available to more families. New programs launched in 2018 made it possible for customers to: receive credit on electric bills for electricity sent to the grid only during peak demand hours; get credit for sending electricity to the grid while allowing utilities to limit it, if necessary, for grid stability; and for present net metering customers to add capacity and energy storage if new equipment does not send electricity to the grid.

To integrate existing and new customer-sited and grid-scale renewable energy, HECO is modernizing the electric grid for the 21st century. In 2018, the utilities received approval to start a $205-million, strategic, grid modernization plan, developed with the greatest stakeholder input ever. HECO also launched the Community-Based Renewable Energy solar program allowing customers on all islands who cannot take advantage of private rooftop solar. (Source: Hawaiian Electric, PR, 30 Dec., 2018) Contact: Hawaiian Electric, www.hawaiianelectric.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hawaiian Electric Companies,  HECO,  Wind,  Solar,  Renewable Energy,  

NV Energy
Date: 2019-01-02
In Reno, the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) is reporting approval of NV Energy's planned addition of more than 1 GW of solar power to its portfolio for a doubling of its overall renewable energy capacity by 2023.

The plan foresees PPAs for 1,001 MW of solar PV parks coupled with a total of 100 MW of battery storage facilities at a cost of $2 billion, or more, by the end of 2021.

The proposed projects projects -- Battle Mountain Solar Project, Dodge Flat Solar Center, Fish Springs Ranch, Eagle Shadow Mountain Solar Ranch, Copper Mountain Solar 5, and the Techren Solar 5 project -- will expand NV Energy's renewables portfolio to around 3,000 MW. NV Energy's portfolio presently 50 solar, geothermal, hydropower, wind, biomass, and supported rooftop solar projects. (Source: NV Energy, Renewables, 31 Dec., 2018) Contact: NV Energy, Dave Ulozas, VP Renewable Resources, (702) 402-5000, www.nvenergy.com

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EnSync
Date: 2018-12-21
In a deal that includes the implementation of integrated energy efficiency and smart home initiative in 23 buildings on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, Koae Workforce Housing has inked a PPA with Internet of Energy solutions firm EnSync Energy Systems based in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.

Under the terms of the agreement, EnSync is providing its smart home energy systems which include a 516KW rooftop solar, 603KWh of energy storage and smart home energy communications, command and control platform that helps manage the impact of vacancy rates, time of day absences and unit level micro-loading effects in multi-unit properties or communities, facilitating energy efficiency across the network. (Source: EnSync Energy, Smart Energy Int'l, 21 Dec., 2018) Contact: EnSync Energy, Brad Hansen, CEO, (262)253.9800, (808) 478-2163 - Honolulu Office, www.ensync.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency. EnSync,  Solar,  Energy Storage,  

Duke Energy
Date: 2018-12-19
Duke Energy says it expects rebates for rooftop solar panels in North Carolina to total about $10 million this year. Applications for the second year of the five-year program will be available beginning Jan. 2. Duke will hand out a total of $62 million in solar rebates over the five years under the program required by a 2017 state law. Homeowners can get up to $6,000 in rebates, businesses up to $50,000 and nonprofits up to $75,000.

The $10 million in rebates for 2018 includes about $6 million paid to 1,300 property owners, plus money still to be paid for systems installed this year. About 96 pct of the rebates were paid to homeowners to cover approximately one-third of the cost of a typical solar installation, according to the Duke press release.

Access information on the Duke Solar Rebate program HERE. (Source: Duke Energy, NPR, 18 Dec., 2018) Contact: Duke Energy, www.duke-energy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Duke Energy,  Solar,  Solar Rebates,  

California Rooftop Solar
Date: 2018-12-10
Following up on our May 11th coverage, in Sacramento, the California Energy Commission (CEC) reports it has given the final approval to the state's 2019 Title 24, Part 6, Building Energy Efficiency Standards requiring all new homes under three stories high install solar panels starting January 1, 2020. The solar solar systems must be sized to net out the annual kilowatt-hour energy usage of the dwelling.

The codes also incentivize "demand responsive technologies" including battery storage and heat pump water heaters. Combined with a host of other energy efficiency upgrades, the revised building codes are expected to slash energy use in new homes by more than 50 pct. (Source: Calif. Energy Commission, 5 Dec., 2018) Contact: California Energy Commission, (916) 465-4500, www.energy.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News California Energy Commission,  Rooftop Solar,  Solar,  

sonnen
Date: 2018-11-09
In Los Angeles, residential energy storage specialist sonnen reports it has partnered with Sarasota, Florida-headquartered Pearl Homes to bring the vision of solar + storage, home automation and home construction to life, resulting in a "Net-Zero-Plus and Climate-Positive community."

The community, which will launch at Hunters Point in Cortez, FL., will include 148 LEED standard homes equipped with rooftop solar, a new and affordable sonnen energy storage system designed for mass market appeal, a smart thermostat and an EV charger -- all controlled by sonnen's energy automation and artificial intelligence (AI) software platform.

The Hunter's Point sonnen community represents the first time an energy storage system has worked in concert with Google Home in a master-planned development capable of maximizing the intelligent use of each household's renewable energy. In total, the Hunter's Point sonnenCommunity projects represent 9MWh of storage capacity and 7.2MW of power. (Source: sonnen, PR, 7 Nov., 2018) Contact: Pearl Homes, Monique Viehman, MV@pearlhomesfl.com, www.pearlhomesfl.com; sonnen, Blake Richetta, Snr. VP, sonnen U.S. operations, www.sonnenusa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News sonnen,  Solar,  Energy Storage,  

EPA Green Power Partnership
Date: 2018-10-31
In the Silver State, Wynn Las Vegas resort is reporting acceptance into the U.S. EPA Green Power Partnership, a collective of organizations that are voluntarily leading innovation and the production and use of efficient green energy in America.

The Wynn announcement follows on the heels of the Wynn Solar Facility, a new 160-acre solar complex dedicated to generating renewable energy to power the Las Vegas resort. Combined with 103,000 square feet of on-site rooftop solar panels, Wynn Las Vegas is creating and using more than 45 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power annually, which is enough green power to meet 25 percent of the resort's electric load.

Wynn Las Vegas becomes the largest Green Power Partner in the hotel industry in the nation and remains dedicated to increasing sustainable design practices, creating and sourcing renewable energy, energy efficiency and exceeding US Green Building Council LEED Gold Building Certification standards.

The Green Power Partnership aims to increase the use of green energy and advance the green power market. The 1,500-strog partnership -- which counts Microsoft, Intel, Bank of America, Apple, Johnson & Johnson and Starbucks among its members -- voluntarily uses nearly 53 billion kWh of green power annually. (Source: Wynn Las Vegas, PR, 29 Oct., 2018) Contact: Wynn Las Vegas, www.wynnlasvegas.com; EPA Green Power Partnership, www.epa.gov/greenpower

More Low-Carbon Energy News EPA Green Power Partnership,  

EPA Green Power Partnership
Date: 2018-10-31
In Nevada, Wynn Las Vegas Resort is reporting acceptance into the U.S. EPA Green Power Partnership, a collective of organizations that are voluntarily leading the innovation, production and use of renewable energy in America.

The distinction comes less than five months after the debut of the Wynn Solar Facility, a new 160-acre solar complex solely dedicated to generating renewable energy to power the Las Vegas resort. Combined with 103,000 square feet of on-site rooftop solar panels, Wynn Las Vegas is creating and using more than 45 million kWh of green power annually, which is enough green power to meet 25 pct of the resort's electric load.

Other Green Power Partners, The Green Power Partnership is a voluntary program that helps increase green power use among U.S. organizations to advance the American market for green power and development of those sources as a way to reduce air pollution and other environmental impacts associated with electricity use. The Partnership has over 1,500 partners -- including Microsoft, Intel, Bank of America, Apple, Johnson & Johnson and Starbucks -- voluntarily using nearly 53 billion kWh of green power per year.. (Source: Wynn Las Vegas, PR, 29 Oct., 2018) Contact: Wynn Las Vegas, Erik Hansen, Chief Sustainability Officer, www.wynnlasvegas.com; EPA Green Power Partnership, www.epa.gov/greenpower

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy news,  Green Energy news,  EPA Green Power Partnership news,  

Enertiva
Date: 2018-10-22
Central American alternative energy specialist Enertiva reports construction is underway on a 3,300 panel, 1.1-MW PV array that is being installed on the rooftop of a recreational and commercial complex in Costa Rica. When fully operational, the facility will reportedly be one of the regiuon's largest solar installations. The facility will also host wind turbines as well as solar trees. (Source: Enertiva, Renewables Now, 19 Oct., 2018) Contact: Enertiva, +502 2277-3000, info@enertiva.com, www.enertiva.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enertiva,  Solar,  Rooftop Solar,  PV ,  

Apple
Date: 2018-10-19
In Herzliya, Isreal, Apple's R&D centre, the company's second largest development facility, has been awarded US Green Building Council LEED Gold and Silver certification, according to the facility's designer Yashar Architects.

The facility is composed of two separate buildings joined by a five-floor suspended atrium. The energy efficiency features include: a building envelope consisting of four types of curtain walls, each one with a different type of glazing to maximize indoor comfort; glass panels printed with dots that filter the light for better and cost efficient temperature control; rooftop solar panels; a smart automatic on-off lighting system; and a climate control system designed to consume 40 pct less electricity than comparable systems. (Source: Yashar Architects, FloorNature, 18 Oct., 2018) Contact: Yashar Architects, +972 3-620-3220, https://yashararch.com; USGBC, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Apple,  Energy Efficiency,  LEED Certification,  US Green Building Council,  

Amazon
Date: 2018-10-17
Amazon reports it is set to install 20 MW of solar panels at its fulfillment centers across the U.K. The panels are expected to "generate the equivalent amount of electricity required to power over 4,500 U.K. homes." and cut the company's carbon footprint by 6,000 tpy of carbon dioxide.

The company plans to deploy large scale rooftop solar systems at 10 of its U.K. fulfillment centers over the next 18 months. This solar generated electricity will be backed by UK Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin certificates, which means that the energy bought for fulfillment centers and other buildings will have come from sources such as wind and solar. (Source: Amazon, CNBC, 16 Oct., 2018)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Amazon,  Solar,  

City of Helsinki
Date: 2018-09-19
Finland's capitol city of Helsinki reports its fully owned energy company, Helen Ltd, a producer of district heating, power, and district cooling, is converting its largely coal and natural gas energy production processes to climate-neutral renewable energy production and thereby minimize its carbon emissions by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

In the near term, Helen will utilize biomass-based energy production. The utility will also close its largely coal-fired Hanasaari power plant and develop modifications for new plants. Longer term solutions will entail energy recycling, increased utilization of locally produced renewable energy, energy storage and other initiatives.

The City of Helsinki is aiming to source 15 pct of its power demand from rooftop solar and geothermal energy. (Source: City of Helsinki, Sept., 2018) Contact: City of Helsinki, Helen Ltd, 09 617 8080, www.helen.fi/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News City of Helsinki ,  Helen Ltd,  Renewable Energy,  

Climate Change
Date: 2018-09-17
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D) is a 29 year old American politician, educator, and political activist. On June 26, 2018, Ocasio-Cortez won the Democratic primary in New York's 14th congressional district. She is widely heralded by the media as the "possible new face" of American politics.

"In order to address runaway global climate change, Ocasio-Cortez strongly supports transitioning the United States to a carbon-free, 100 pct renewable energy system and a fully modernized electrical grid by 2035. She believes renewable fuels must be produced in a way that achieves our environmental and energy security goals, so we can move beyond oil responsibly in the fight against climate change. By encouraging the electrification of vehicles, sustainable home heating, distributed rooftop solar generation, and the conversion of the power grid to zero-emissions energy sources, Ocasio-Cortez believes we can be 100% free of fossil fuels by 2035.

"Ocasio-Cortez believes in recognizing the relationship between economic stability and environmental sustainability. It's time to shift course and implement a Green New Deal -- a transformation that implements structural changes to our political and financial systems in order to alter the trajectory of our environment. Right now, the economy is controlled by big corporations whose profits are dependent on the continuation of climate change. This arrangement benefits few, but comes at the detriment of our planet and all its inhabitants. Its effects are life-threatening, and are especially already felt by low-income communities, both in the U.S. and globally. Rather than continue a dependency on this system that posits climate change as inherent to economic life, the Green New Deal believes that radically addressing climate change is a potential path towards a more equitable economy with increased employment and widespread financial security for all.

"Climate change is the single biggest national security threat for the United States and the single biggest threat to worldwide industrialized civilization, and the effects of warming can be hard to predict and self-reinforcing. We need to avoid a worldwide refugee crisis by waging a war for climate justice through the mobilization of our population and our government. This starts with the United States being a leader on the actions we take both globally and locally", Ocasio-Cortez says. (Source: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Sept., 2018) Contact: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, (929) 388-6141. us@ocasio2018.com, https://twitter.com/Ocasio2018

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  

Battery,Energy Storage
Date: 2018-09-12
In the Land Down Under, the Victoria state Labor government reports that if re-elected it will provide $40 million in subsidies of up to $5,000 per-household to help 10,000 households install battery storage in their homes. The program is in addition to its suite of household energy incentives that include rebates, zero interest loans for rooftop solar, and a package for solar hot water systems. The battery storage assistance will be available only to those with existing rooftop solar systems, and with an annual household income of less than $180,000.

Eligible homeowners can expect to save up to $4,838 on a battery storage unit installation tapering down to $3,714 by 2026 as the price of batteries continues to drop.

(Source: Various Media Sources, RENew Economy, 11 Sept., 2018)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Storage,  Home Energy Storage Battery,  Solar,  Renewable Energy Storage,  Solar,  

Namaste Solar
Date: 2018-09-10
In Ephrata, Pennsylvania, the Four Seasons Family of Companies Inc. reports it has flipped the switch on a $1.6 million rooftop solar array at its main refrigerated distribution center. The 1.3 MW installation is expected to provide approximately one-sixth of the building's total demand for electricity and reduce power consumption by over 20 pct, water use by over 30 pct and natural gas usage by more than 50 pct.

Four Seasons partnered with Boulder, Colorado-based Namaste Solar which designs, installs and maintains solar electric systems for homeowners, commercial property owners and utility-scale developers. Namaste worked with New York-based Positive Energy NY LLC, PowerStream Solar & Electric LLC in Salisbury Township and Delta Electric Services LLC in Lebanon, Pa. to install the 3,900 solar panels.

The project is expected to pay for itself in approximately five years. (Source: Four Seasons Companies,PR, Various Media, 7 Sept., 2018) Contact: Four Seasons Group, Nelson Longenecker , VP, 717-721-2800; Namaste Solar, 303.447.0300 www.namastesolar.com

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