Atlanta Gas Light,Chesapeake Utilities Corp.
Date: 2022-03-30
In the Peach State, Atlanta Gas Light and Dover, Delaware-based Chesapeake Utilities Corp. are touting the opening of a compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling station at the Port of Savannah. The station will serve local CNG fleets, renewable natural gas (RNG) fueled vehicles be used as a staging area for Chesapeake's Marlin Gas subsidiary to fill CNG transport trailers used in providing virtual pipeline services.

Atlanta Gas Light has a long history of supporting CNG initiatives and is committed to building a sustainable energy future for the state. In 1969, Atlanta Gas Light helped write the foundation for today's Natural Gas Vehicle Codes and Standards. CNG vehicles have been a part of the Atlanta Gas Light's fleet since the late 1970s, helping fuel the way forward for CNG vehicles across the state in a variety of businesses, according to the release. (Source: Atlanta Gas Light, PR, 23 Mar., 2022) Contact: Atlanta Gas Light, Pedro Cherry, CEO, 800-427-5463, www.atlantagaslight.com; Chesapeake Utilities Corp., www.chpk.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Atlanta Gas Light,  RNG,  CNG,  Chesapeake Utilities Corp.,  

Avista Utilities, NW Natural Gas,Cascade Natural Gas
Date: 2022-03-23
Spokane, Washington-based Avista Utilities, along with NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas, reports it has filed a lawsuit in the Oregon Court of Appeals requesting a judicial review of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality's (DEQ) Climate Protection Program (CPP). The companies also challenge the DEQ's authority to enact and enforce the CPP.

The CPP is to intended to create a program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Oregon sources by imposing declining limits (caps} on a covered fuel supplier's attributed emissions.

According to Avista Pres. and CEO Dennis Vermillion, "The CPP does not reflect our feedback or collaborative efforts, and it is not a constructive pathway for reducing emissions. We are disappointed in the outcome and the negative impact it will have on our customers. It will increase their cost of energy and may ultimately cause them to replace their natural gas heating systems and appliances. Our customers value energy choice. This is why we are taking this legal action now." (Source: Avista Utilities, Website, PR 22 Mar., 2022) Contact: Avista Utilities, www.myvista.com; NW Natural, Kim Heiting, Snr. VP of Operations, (503) 721-2472, www.nwnatural.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News NW Natural Gas,  Avista,  

Aypa Power, Clackstone, NRStor
Date: 2022-03-04
Blackstone portfolio company Aypa Power LLC -- fka NRStor C&I -- is reporting an agreement to purchase Charlottesville, Virginia-based East Point Energy's 100MW Yadkins battery energy storage (BESS) project in Chesapeake, Virginia. Torninto, Ontario-based Aypa is a battery-storage focused investment company, and has built a 10GW pipeline in North America since entering the sector in 2018.

The Virginia Clean Economy Act calls for the Old Dminion State to reach 100 pct clean energy by 2050 and targets 3.1 GW of energy storage to be deployed by utilities by 2035. (Source: AYPA, Website PR, Mar., 2022) Contact: AYPA Power LLC, www.aypa.com; East Point Energy, 434-465-6210, www.eastpointenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aypa Power,  Clackstone,  NRStor,  BESS,  Energy Storage,  East Point Energy,  

Sustainable Development Capital
Date: 2022-02-09
In London, Sustainable Development Capital LLP is reporting its SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust (SEEIT) will invest €2 million for an 80 pct equity interest in a high-efficiency biomass cogeneration plant in Portugal.

The plant generates heat and power from woody biomass and supplies critical on-site heat to an industrial facility manufacturing medium-density fibreboard, owned by Sonae Arauco PT (SAPT). SAPT supplies contracted biomass feedstock to the project, mainly waste wood from its own facility, as well as sustainably sourced wood waste biomass.

SEEIT -- the first London Stock Exchange-listed investment company of its kind to invest exclusively in the energy efficiency sector -- acquired an equity interest in the Sociedade de Iniciativa e Aproveitamentos Florestais -- Energia (SAIF) biomass facility in Mangualde from Capwatt -- a developer and operator of high-efficiency cogeneration and renewables facilities in Portugal and Spain. (Source: SDCL, Website PR, Feb., 2022) Contact: SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust, +44 (0) 20 7287 7700, F: +44 (0) 20 7287 7700, info@sdclgroup.com, www.seeitplc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Woody Biomass,  Biomas,  

AEGIS Hedging Solutions
Date: 2022-01-05
In the Lone Star State, The Woodlands-based AEGIS Hedging Solutions is reporting the acquisition of Houston-headquartered Emission Advisors, a leader in the environmental markets.

Emission Advisors works with companies across multiple sectors to understand, purchase, sell, and retire voluntary and compliance offsets in multiple environmental markets including: voluntary carbon offsets; emission reduction credits (ERCs); carbon allowances (California Cap and Trade Program and RGGI; regional emissions markets (Houston-Galveston-Brazoria Mass Emissions Cap and Trade Program and Regional Clean Air Incentives Market (RECLAIM); renewable energy Certificates (RECs); Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) credits; RINS under the Renewable Fuel Standard Program; and Cross State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) allowances. The company provides structured environmental compliance, brokerage, consulting, and portfolio optimization services to a large diverse client base.

AEGIS simplifies commodity and environmental markets for companies serious about managing their commodity exposures and/or emission footprints. AEGIS has unmatched technology and expertise to deliver market insights, tailored hedge strategies, efficient trade execution, and full-cycle management of hedge positions -- all designed for regulatory compliance. (Source: AEGIS Hedging Solutions, PR, 5 Jan., 2021) Contact: AEGIS Hedging Solutions, Bryan Sanbury, CEO; Emission Advisors , Mike Taylor , 713-385-3321, mtaylor@aegis-hedging.com, www.aegis-hedging.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News AEGIS Hedging Solutions ,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Market,  Carbon Offset,  

Nestle
Date: 2021-12-15
Swiss food giant Nestle is reporting its Australian unit, Nestle Australia, is switching its six Australian factories, two distribution center, three corporate offices, 20 retail boutiques, and laboratory to 100 pct renewable electricity, and, to that end, has partnered with CWP Renewables for its first wind energy power purchase agreement (PPA). The company is aiming to reduce its net emissions by 50 pct by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2050.

CWP Renewables' Crudine Ridge and Sapphire wind farms in NSW will generate sufficient electricity to meet Nestle Australia's needs each year -- the equivalent of powering approximately 19,000 households per year. With the switch to renewable, Nestlewill avoid around 73,000 tpy of carbon emissions. The company is also committing to achieving carbon neutrality for several of its brands as well as making 100 pct of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025 .

Download the Nestle Net Zero Roadmap HERE (Source: Nestle, Dec., 2021) Contact: Nestle, Nestle Oceania, Sandra Martinez, CEO, www.nestle.com; CWP Renewables, Jason Willoughby, CEO, www.wprenewables.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Nestle,  Renewable Energy,  Carbon Emissions,  

Vestas,Invenergy
Date: 2021-12-10
Danish wind energy giant Vestas Wind Systems A/S is reporting receipt of a 235 MW order for V150-4.2 MW turbines and V136-3.45 MW turbines in 3.6 MW operating mode from Chicago-headquartered Invenergy, the largest independent, privately held renewable energy provider in North America, to power the Sapphire Sky wind project in Illinois, USA.

The order includes a 10-year Active Output Management 5000 (AOM 5000) service agreement. Turbine delivery is slated to begin in Q2 of 2022 with commissioning scheduled for Q4 of 2022. (Source: Vestas, Website PR, 8 Dec., 2021) Contact: Vestas, Laura Beane, Pres. Vestas North America, www.vestas.com; Invenergy LLC, Ryan Van Portfliet, Renewable Energy Development, Michael Mulcahey, Business Development Manager, (312) 224-1400, www.invenergy.com

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

Sappi
Date: 2021-12-06
In Finland, paper maker Sappi Finland I Oy and Rauma-based materials handling specialist Finland BMH Technology Oy are reporting a contract for the delivery of a biomass fuel handling system to the Kirkniemi Paper Mill in Lohja, Finland. The new system will bring the existing boiler in line with current environmental goals as it ends the era of coal as fuel. The boiler's future fuel supply will consist of woody biomass, bark and forestry wastes.

The system incorporates a fuel receiving station with two back unloading units for trucks, a fuel quality control station, a silo storage with a rotating TYRANNOSAURUS screw reclaimer and all necessary fuel conveyors.

Sappi Group operates in more than 35 countries with manufacturing on three continents and produces everyday materials from woodfibre-based renewable resources. (Sappi Group, PR, Dec., 2021) Contact: Sappi Kirkniemi Mill, +358 10 4642999, www.sappi.com/kirkniemi-mill; BMH Technology Oy, +358 20 4866800, www.bmh.fi

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sappi,  Woody Biomass,  

Enviva
Date: 2021-11-10
Bethesda, Maryland-headquartered woody biomass pellet producer Enviva is reporting a contract with a European processor of solid biomass into refined liquids that become high-grade renewable fuels including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biodiesel.

According to the company website, Enviva aggregates a natural resource, wood fiber, and processes it into a transportable form, wood pellets. Enviva sells a significant majority of its wood pellets through long-term, take-or-pay off-take contracts with creditworthy customers in the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Japan. Enviva owns and operates 10 plants with a combined production capacity of approximately 6.2 million metric tpy in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi. In addition, Enviva exports wood pellets through its marine terminals at the Port of Chesapeake, Virginia, the Port of Wilmington, North Carolina, and the Port of Pascagoula, Mississippi, and from third-party marine terminals in Savannah, Georgia, Mobile, Alabama, and Panama City, Florida. (Source: Enviva, PR, Website, 3 Nov., 2021) Contact: Enviva, Dr. Jennifer Jenkins, VP, Chief Sustainability Officer, (301) 657-5560, www.envivabiomass.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enviva,  Sustainable Aviation Fuel,  Wood Pellet,  Woody Biomass,  

E.ON, Enel, Iberdrola, ABB
Date: 2021-10-27
Essen, Germany-headquartered E.ON SE reports it is cooperating with Enel, Iberdrola, ABB and SAP on "H2.Ruhr" and to build an industrial-scale green hydrogen value chain as to serve the European market. The firms will leverage their competitive advantage in renewable production to supply green hydrogen and green ammonia to industrial hubs in central and northern Europe -- with a special focus on the German Ruhr region.

H2.Ruhr includes the construction of a regional hydrogen pipeline infrastructure including direct connection to a broad spectrum of consumers in the Ruhr area and the development of a terminal to receive, store and distribute roughly 80,000 tpy green ammonia and green hydrogen. H2.Ruhr will also test new innovative technologies at a large-scale, such as the ammonia cracking technology, electrolysis, emission-free transport (via hydrogen or ammonia powered vessels or trucks), as well as the long-distance transport of electricity dedicated for hydrogen production. (Source: E.ON, Website Release, Oct., 2021) Contact: E.ON, +49 2 01 18400, info@eon.com, www.eon.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Amonia,  E.ON,  Enel,  Iberdrola,  ABB,  Green Hydrogen,  

Exxon,Climate Leadership Council
Date: 2021-08-09
Houston-headquartered oil giant Exxon Mobil is reported to have been suspended from the pro-carbon tax Climate Leadership Council (CLC) and the CLC's advocacy arm Americans for Carbon Dividends, after an Exxon lobbyist was secretly recorded by Greenpeace saying "the oil giant only voiced support for a carbon tax because it knew such a policy would be almost impossible to implement."

Exxon CEO Darren Woods responded that "the lobbyist's comments in no way represent the company's position" and that the "CLC's decision is disappointing and counterproductive" and that Exxon will "mull more aggressive objectives" on emissions.

Exxon was a CLC founding member in 2017. Participating members include BP Plc, Goldman Sachs Group Inc., World Resources Institute, Microsoft Corp. and others. The CLC advocates that any carbon tax proceeds should be directly returned to taxpayers through "carbon dividends" and wants simpler carbon regulations and similar fees charged on foreign imports to create a level playing field. (Source: Climate Leadership Council, World Oil, 8 Aug., 2021) Contact: Climate Leadership Council, Greg Bertelsen, CEO, www.clcouncil.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Leadership Council,  Exxon,  Carbon Tax,  

Royal Dutch Shell
Date: 2021-05-28
At the Hague, in what must certainly be a landmark ruling, a Dutch court has ordered Royal Dutch Shell to cut its emissions 45 pct by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. In its ruling, the Court found the oil giant's current climate strategy was "not concrete enough and full of caveats," and that the oil major has a legal obligation to reduce its emissions in line with international climate goals -- the Paris Climate accord and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Seven environmental groups argued that Shell is violating its international climate obligations and threatening the lives of these citizens by continuing to invest billions every year in expanding its oil and gas production. Shell's net-zero strategy allows for oil and methane gas production to expand until 2025.

Shell as quick to respond that it "fully expects to appeal today's disappointing court decision" and that "urgent action is needed on climate change which is why we have accelerated our efforts to become a net-zero emissions energy company by 2050, in step with society, with short-term targets to track our progress." (Source: Royal Dutch Shell, Various Media Reports, 26 May, 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Royal Dutch Shell news,  Carbon Emissions news,  

Sapphire Gas Solutions
Date: 2021-05-14
In the Lone Star State, Conroe-based LNG and CNG specialist Sapphire Gas Solutions reports it has entered the renewable natural gas (RNG) market with the recent awarding of transportation and logistics contracts for seven farm-based RNG operations in central California.

The farms which utilize Redding, Califoria-based Maas Energy anaerobic digestion installations are not connected to local gas pipeline infrastructure. This created a need to compress and deliver the RNG to pipeline systems in the region via tractor trailer. Sapphire's solution was to utilize CNG-fueled transport to provide this service, according to the release. (Source: Sapphire Gas Solutions, Website, PR, 13 May, 2021) Contact: Sapphire Gas Solutions, Sam Thigpen, SEO, 833-662-5427, info@sapphiregassolutions.com, www.sapphiregassolutions.com; Maas Energy, (530) 710-8545, info@maasenergy.com, www.maasenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG,  Renewable Natural Gas,  Anaerobic Digestion,  

SK Innovation
Date: 2021-03-29
South Korean battery maker SK Innovation reports it is considering pulling the plug on its $2.7 billion electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant and halting construction of a second battery manufacturing plant in Commerce City, Georgia, as well as other U.S. operations. Combined, the two facilities would have a combined production capacity of 20 gigawatt-hours a year, enough for 250,000 electric vehicles and create 2,600 jobs.

The company's position is in response the US International Trade Commission's February finding that SK had "misappropriated" 22 trade secrets from its rival LG Chem. The two firms have as yet been unable to come to a mutually agreeable compensation settlement for SK's "misappropriation.

The ITC, while slapping the firm with a 10-year business ban, has allowed SK Innovation a grace period of up to four years for it to continue supplying Volkswagen and Ford. (Source: SK Innovation, Korea Herald, 28 Mar., 2021) Contact: SK innovation, www.eng.skinnovation.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News SK Innovation,  Battery,  LG Chem,  

Enviva
Date: 2020-12-04
Bethesda, Maryland-based wood bioenergy specialist Enviva Partners, LP reports its first shipment of approximately 28,000 metric tons of wood pellets made from low-value wood sourced in the U.S. Southeast is on its way from Port Panama City in Florida to Japan's Iwakuni Port.

Enviva Partners is a publicly traded master limited partnership that aggregates a natural resource, wood fiber, and processes it into a transportable form, wood pellets. The Partnership sells a significant majority of its wood pellets through long-term, take-or-pay off-take contracts with creditworthy customers in the United Kingdom and Europe. The Partnership owns and operates nine plants with a combined production capacity of approximately 4.9 million MTPY in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, and Florida. In addition, the Partnership exports wood pellets through its marine terminals at the Port of Chesapeake, Virginia and the Port of Wilmington, North Carolina and from third-party marine terminals in Savannah, Georgia, Mobile, Alabama, and Panama City, Florida, according to the company. (Source: Enviva Partners, PR, 2 Dec., 2020) Contact: Enviva Partners, LP, (301) 657-5560, www.envivabiomass.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enviva,  Biomass,  Wood Pellet,  

Orsted
Date: 2020-12-04
Offshore wind farm developer Orsted reports it is working with the Maryland Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) to create a virtual reality training program that simulates the experience of piloting through a commercial-scale offshore wind farm.

The MITAGS partnership is Orsted's latest step to forge ties with local stakeholders and to expand offshore wind related training in the Chesapeake region.

MITAGS recently received $300,000 in grant funding from the state to create the Global Wind Organization Basic Safety Training platform. Development of the full course is expected to be completed soon and offered in 2021. (Source: Orsted, Baltimore Business Journal, Dec., 2020) Contact: MITAGS, 410-859-5700, www.mitags.org; Orsted, +45 99 55 97 22, 857-284-1430 -- US Boston Office, www.orsted.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Orsted,  Offshore Wind,  

Renewable Fuels Association,National Farmers Union
Date: 2020-12-02
Commenting on the US EPA's again missing the annual statutory deadline for the release of the RVOs, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said:

"It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that EPA is missing its statutory deadline for publishing the final rule for 2021 RVOs, given that we still haven't even seen a proposed rule. And even if a proposed rule was released today, it would be next to impossible to have a final rule done by the end of the calendar year, or even by inauguration day.

"At this point, it likely makes more sense to let the new administration handle the 2021 RVO rulemaking process entirely. President-elect Biden has correctly noted that the RFS waivers granted by the current EPA have severely cut ethanol production, costing farmers income and ethanol plant workers their jobs. Thus, we are confident that the new EPA administrator, whoever that may end up being, will stop doing secret favors for oil refiners and ensure the RFS is implemented in a way that is consistent with the law and Congressional intent. We know it may take a few months for the new administration to get a final 2021 RVO rule done, but in the meantime, the statute is crystal clear that refiners must blend at least 15 billion gallons of conventional renewable fuel in 2021.

"So, while there may be some uncertainty around where the final advanced and cellulosic volume requirements may end up, the marketplace should be able to enter 2021 with some level of confidence around the conventional renewable fuel and biomass-based diesel requirements."

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew added, "By punting a decision on 2021's RVOS to the next administration, EPA is introducing yet more uncertainty to the biofuels industry -- uncertainty that most farmers and biofuels producers can't afford right now. Despite promising again and again to uphold RFS, the Trump administration has consistently undermined the program with its misappropriation of small refinery exemptions, preferential treatment of oil corporations, and disregard for its legal responsibility to restore lost demand, all of which has cost America's farmers and biofuel producers dearly. To add insult to injury, fuel use -- and, consequently, ethanol use -- has dropped significantly during the pandemic, cutting deeply into profits.

"Trump's EPA has almost invariably fallen short in its handling of biofuels, and today's decision, or lack thereof, is no different. We sincerely hope Biden's EPA learns from their mistakes and takes biofuels policy in a much more promising direction." (Source: National Farmers Union, Renewable Fuels Association, FencePost, 30 Nov., 2020) Contact: National Farmers Union, Rob Larew, Pres., (202) 554-1600, www.nfu.org; Renewable Fuels Association, Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuels Association,  RFS,  National Farmers Union ,  

Vietnam
Date: 2020-11-06
The Vietnam Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is reporting plans to develop a roadmap to implement market-based carbon pricing -- carbon tax -- tools as part of its effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Ministry has proposed adding the carbon market -- carbon tax to the revised draft Law on Environmental Protection which is expected to be approved by at the upcoming 10th legislative session.

In 2012, Vietnam joined the Partnership for Market Readiness (PMR) which aims to establish carbon markets in developing, emerging countries like Vietnam. Vietnam became a member of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1994 and ratified the Kyoto Protocol in 2002.

Vietnam is one of five countries most affected by climate change. If sea levels rise by one meter, one-fifth of the country's population could become homeless and 12.3 pct of farmland could disappear, experts have warned./. (Source: Vietnam Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, VNA, 5 Nov., 2020) Contact: Vietnam Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, (0243) 7956868, (0243) 8359221 -- fax, portal@monre.gov.vn, www.monre.gov.vn/English

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Tax,  Vietnam,  Climate Change,  

CarbonStore
Date: 2020-10-12
Scotland-based forestry company Tilhill reports the launch of CarbonStore, a new service for landowners looking to sell woodland generated carbon credits to companies aiming to offset their carbon emissions. Under the service, landowners will have the opportunity to use the CarbonStore website to openly market their woodland carbon, offering market leading value while also securing an honest price for companies and helping them maximise their carbon offsetting ambitions.

Both Tilhill and CarbonStore are part of BSW, the UK's largest integrated forestry group. Also in partnership with CarbonStore are Maelor Forest Nurseries, a progressive commercial tree nursery and also part of the BSW Group. Together, the partnership can grow the tree seeds, design the new woodland creation schemes, plant the saplings, manage the trees and sell the carbon units. (Source: Tilhill, PR, Scottish Farmer, 11 Oct., 2020} Contact: Tilhill, David McCulloch, +44 0 1786 435000, Fax-- 01786 435001, enquiries@tilhill.com, www.tilhill.com; CarbonStore, +44 1786 649387, www.carbonstoreuk.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CarbonStore,  Carbon Emissions,  Carbon Offset,  

Zero Carbon Fund
Date: 2020-08-19
Havant, England-headquartered Zero Carbon Fund Ltd reports that after raising more than £1.5 million over the last 6+ months it is now moving into investment mode.

The company aims to invest in ten EIS-eligible start-ups with breakthrough ideas that can scale to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least half a gigaton per year in some of the big unsolved problem areas in the climate space, such as energy storage, cooling, food & agriculture, industrial heat and carbon capture.

Zero Carbon Capital delivers the fund in partnership with Sapphire Capital Partners and aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of hard science solutions to the most pressing issues of climate change.

The Zero Carbon Fund is an EIS fund investing in early-stage companies on a mission to address climate change through technology innovation. The company invests in ambitious teams with breakthrough ideas that can scale to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by half a gigaton per year and deliver long-term value, according to its website. (Source: Zero Carbon Fund, PR, 18 Aug., 20200 Contact: Zero Carbon Capital, Zero Carbon Fund, Pippa or Alex Cawley, info@zerocarbon.capital, www.zerocarbon.capital; Sapphire Capital Partners, www.sapphirecapitalpartners.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Zero Carbon Fund,  GHGs,  Low-Carbon Energy,  

Palm Oil Biofuel
Date: 2020-07-17
In Oslo, the Norwegian Parliament has voted to ban the biofuels industry from purchasing and using unsustainably produced palm oil and palm oil related products that are directly or indirectly associated with deforestation and climate change.

In September 2018, Greenpeace reported at least 25 palm oil exploiting companies -- Colgate-Palmolive , General Mills, Hershey, Kellogg's , Kraft Heinz, L'Oreal , Mars, Mondelez, Nestle , PepsiCo , Reckitt Benckiser, Unilever and others -- were to blame for the disappearance of 1,300 square kilometers of Indonesian jungle. (Source: The Swamp, Tewodros Kore News, 16 July, 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Biofuel,  Climate Change,  Deforestation,  

Honeywell,SAP
Date: 2020-06-17
To help pass the benefits of Cloud Computing, AI and Automation to real estate customers in the US and Canada, global tech firms Honeywell and SAP have partnered together. Honeywell, the Fortune 100 tech Company, will use SAP’s Cloud for Real Estate solution to improve overall building performance and deliver operational intelligence.

The SAP-Honeywell Cloud-based automated real estate Business Intelligence tool, building owners can deliver on their promised KPIs, including building safety, zero/ low-carbon footprint and energy savings (HVAC efficiency). For example, AI-powered Honeywell Forge can save up to 25 pct of energy costs within the first year of deployment. (Source: AITHORITY Blog, Honeywell USA/ SAP, PR, June, 2020) Contact: SAP, Christian Klein, CEO , 800-872-1727, www.sap.com; Honeywell Fotge, (480) 353-3020, www.honeywell.com/en-us/honeywell-forge/buildings

More Low-Carbon Energy News SAP,  Honeywell,  Building Energy Efficiency,  Artifical Intelligence,  

Bioenergy DevCo, Chesapeake Utilities Corporation
Date: 2020-06-05
Columbia, Maryland-based anaerobic digestion facilities designer, builder, operator and financier Bioenergy DevCo (BDC) reports it has partnered with Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (CHPK) to bring renewable natural gas (RNG) to customers on the Delmarva Peninsula on the US east coast.

BDC and CHPK will work on a project to remove and process poultry waste into RNG which will be transported and distributed by CHPK affiliate firms Eastern Shore Natural Gas, Chesapeake Utilities and Marlin Gas Services to multiple regional suppliers. (Source: Bioenergy DevCo, Bioenergy, June, 2020) Contact: Bioenergy DevCo, Shawn Kreloff, CEO, info@bioenergydevco.com, www.bioenergydevco.com; Chesapeake Utilities Corporation, Jeff Householder, Pres., CEO, 302.734.6799, www.chpk.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Bioenergy DevCo news,  RNG news,  Anareobic Digestion news,  Chesapeake Utilities Corporation news,  

Climate Change,Colorado Institute of Arctic and Alpine Researc
Date: 2020-02-10
A study from the University of Colorado Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) in Boulder has found the possibility of abrupt permafrost thawing will likely occur in less than 20 pct of permafrost frozen land. The study found the evidence is mixed as to whether this not-so-permanent, slowly thawing permafrost has started to vent significant quantities of methane or CO2.

Global Permafrost covers an area almost equal to Canada and the United States combined, and holds about 1,500 billion tonnes or carbon -- twice as much as in the atmosphere and three times the amount humanity has emitted since the start of industrialization.

According to the UN's scientific advisory body for climate change, the IPCC, global permafrost areas show a decrease of 24 pct by 2100. The IPPC also notes that 70 pct of permafrost could gradually disappear if fossil fuel emissions continue growing over the next 50 years and release 60 to 100 billion tonnes of carbon by 2300. This is in addition to the 200 billion tonnes of carbon expected to be released in other regions, according to the study. (Source: Arctic and Alpine Research, Nature, AFP, Feb., 2020) Contact: INSTAAR, Merritt Turetsky, (303) 492-6387, (303) 492-3287 - fax, www.colorado.edu › innovate › institute-arctic-and-alpine-research

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

Climate Change
Date: 2020-01-10
In the nation's capitol, U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.) has released the legislative framework of the draft Climate Leadership and Environmental Action for the (CLEAN) Future Act -- an ambitious new climate plan to ensure the U.S. achieves net-zero greenhouse gas pollution and 100 pct clean energy no later than 2050. The draft bill incorporates both proven and novel concepts, presenting a set of policy proposals that will put the U.S. on the path to a clean and prosperous economy. Specific to carbon emissions and climate change, the draft legislation:

Directs all federal agencies to use all existing authorities to put the country on a path toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. It does not stipulate which energy sources or strategies qualify, instead taking a technology-inclusive approach to reaching net-zero emissions by mid-century. To ensure federal agencies' collective efforts remain on track, the draft legislation directs the EPA to evaluate each agency's plans, make recommendations and report on progress each year.

Empowers the states to complete the transition to a net-zero economy, based on the existing federalism model in the (Obama administration) Clean Air Act. The bill sets a national climate standard of net-zero greenhouse gas pollution in each state by 2050. States are then granted flexibility to develop plans to meet the 2050 and interim standards based on their policy preferences, priorities and circumstances. Each state must submit a climate plan to EPA, which then reviews and approves or disapproves each plan.

Establishes a National Climate Bank to mobilize public and private investments in low- and zero-emissions energy technologies, climate resiliency, building efficiency and electrification, industrial decarbonization, grid modernization, agriculture projects, and clean transportation.

The draft legislation reduces transportation emissions, the largest source of GHG emissions, by improving vehicle efficiency, accelerating the transition to low- to zero-carbon fuels and building the infrastructure needed for a clean transportation system. The bill directs EPA to set new, increasingly stringent greenhouse gas emission standards for light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, including off-road modes of transportation. (Source: Office of Congressman Frank Pallone Jr., Jan., 2020) Contact: Congressman Frank Pallone Jr , Chairman, Energy and Commerce Committee, (202) 225-4671 (202) 225-9665 - fax, https://pallone.house.gov

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

Renewable Volume Obligations
Date: 2019-12-30
The High Plains Journal is reporting corn growers and renewable fuel standard (RFS) advocates were more then a little disappointed by the recent EPA Renewable Volume Obligations (RVO) rule as signed on Dec. 19 by EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.

"I'm disappointed the EPA chose to ignore the concerns voiced by renewable fuels producers, farmers and consumers. The flawed formula used to account for waived gallons creates unnecessary uncertainty in our markets, detrimental to so many across rural America. We must continue to work together to hold the EPA accountable for ensuring the 15 billion gallons mandated by the RFS are met. We must also continue to invest in infrastructure that builds demand and increases the availability of higher blends of biodiesel and ethanol across the state of Iowa."-- Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship administers the Iowa Renewable Fuel Infrastructure program, which offers cost-share grants to help fuel retailers install infrastructure to increase the availability of ethanol and biodiesel. To date, the program has distributed or obligated over $33 million with $200 million added in private economic activity. (Source: Iowa Department of Agriculture, High Plains Journal, 29 Dec. 2019) Contact: Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Mike Naig, Sec., 515-281-5321, www.iowaagriculture.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News ANdrew Wheeler,  Renewable Volume Obligations,  RVO,   RFS,  "Hardship" Waiver,  Ethanol.Ethanol Blend,  EIA,  

RFS,EPA,National Farmers Union
Date: 2019-12-23
In Washington, the US EPA's just released final renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for the year 2020 is already drawing flak.

As outlined, RVOs will account for a portion of the 4 billion gallons of demand for biofuels eliminated over the past three years due to the rampant misappropriation of small refinery "financial hardship" sexemptions (SREs). Rather than determine relief using an actual three-year average of exempted gallons, the agency has instead used much lower values recommended by the DOE The former would have increased the amount of biofuels in the transportation sector by approximately 1.35 billion gpy, while the latter will increase it by just 770 million gpy.

National Farmers Union (NFU), a strong proponent of biofuels and the RFS, reports it was disappointed with EPA's proposal when it was first released and urged the agency to account for all 4 billion gallons worth of demand in the final rule. In a statement, NFU Vice President of Public Policy and Communications Rob Larew restated the organization's mounting frustration with the administration's destructive approach to biofuels policy.

The NFU NFU represents more then 200,000 family farmers, fishers and ranchers across the country, with formally organized divisions in 33 states. (Source: National Farmers Union, Aberdeen News, 20 Dec., 2019) Contact: National Farmers Union, Roger Johnson, Pres., (202) 554-1600, www.nfu.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS,  EPA,  National Farmers Union,  

COP25
Date: 2019-12-18
"We're disappointed with the lack of willingness by some parties to work together to ensure environmental integrity, to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable communities, and to build upon rather than undermine the Paris agreement." -- Sonam Wangdi, Chair, Least Developed Countries negotiating group.

"Some countries are championing double counting and pre-2020 rollovers... they are undermining environmental integrity” -- Grenada Environment Minister

"It's time to move on. Countries that are serious about using carbon markets to increase ambition should move forward to set their own strong rules for high integrity international emissions trading." -- Nat Keohane, Snr. VP Climate, US Environmental Defense Fund. (Source: Various Media, Montel, 17 Dec., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News COP25,  

COP25
Date: 2019-12-16
"Never have I seen such a disconnect between what the science requires and what the climate negotiations are delivering in terms of meaningful action. Most of the world's biggest emitting countries are missing in action and resisting calls to raise their ambition." -- Alden Meyer, Union of Concerned Scientists, Director of Strategy and Policy

"The US has not come here in good faith. They continue to block the world's efforts to help people whose lives have been turned upside down by climate change."

"Developing countries came to this climate conference with the expectation that the people who have lost their crops to drought, or who have lost their homes to cyclones, will finally get help from the UN system. Instead, they have faced bullying, arm-twisting and blackmail. Rich countries most responsible for the crisis have refused to provide a single penny of new money to support communities to recover from the devastation caused by increasingly frequent and severe climate disasters." -- Harjeet Singh, ActionAid Climate Lead

"Major players who needed to deliver in Madrid did not live up to expectations. But thanks to a progressive alliance of small island states, European, African and Latin American countries, we obtained the best possible outcome, against the will of big polluters." -- Laurence Tubiana, European Climate Foundation, CEO, France's Top Climate Negotiator and Architect of the Paris Agreement.

"The only thing more disastrous than the state of UN climate negotiations at COP 25 is the state of the global climate. This is nothing less than a breakdown in the Paris Agreement. This is not climate leadership, this is a betrayal of humanity and future generations," -- Eric Holthaus, Meteorologist

"What's happening today at COP 25 is a clear and present threat to civilization itself. The Trump administration and its fossil fuel allies around the world have sabotaged the Paris Agreement -- the only global treaty we have to fight climate change. This is a betrayal of humanity.

"For so many people gripped by devastating floods, fires, and storms, time is up. And instead of helping them, rich countries hold on to your dollars and hold up loss and damage. Public mobilizations are swamping the streets. The status quo you are working so stubbornly to protect is not working for people or the planet." -- Catherine Abreu, Climate Action Network Canada

(Source: COP25 Wrap-Up, Various Media, 15 Dec. 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News COP25,  Climate Change,  

California Independent Petroleum Association
Date: 2019-11-13
In Sacramento, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has vetoed AB 1195, a bill to allow the use of renewable natural gas (RNG)-- biomethane -- in the production of traditional transportation fuels in the Golden State. The governor alleged it would misapply the state's low-carbon fuel standard (LCFS) regulation.

Newsom claimed AB 1195 would require the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to allow RNG deliveries via common carrier pipelines to crude oil production or transport facilities from a source that CARB determines reduces methane emissions under the state's LCFS regulations.

The bill was supported by the California Independent Petroleum Association (CIPA) on the grounds that it would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in support of the state's climate change initiatives. (Source: NGI Daily, 11 Nov., 2019) Contact: California Independent Petroleum Association, 916-447-1177, www.cipa.org; California Air Resources Board, Melanie Turner, Information Officer, (916) 322-2990, melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov, www.arb.ca.gov; Calf. Gov. Gavin Newsom, (916) 445-2841, (916) 558-3150 - fax; https://govapps.gov.ca.gov/gov40mail

More Low-Carbon Energy News ,  California Air Resources Board,  RNG,  Biomethane,  

RFS
Date: 2019-10-21
"All along, I've said what farmers and biofuels producers want is what was promised by Congress. And that's adhering to the biofuels blending targets in law. Ultimately, this will come down to trust and implementation at EPA. The ethanol and biodiesel industries have a lot of cause to distrust EPA and that is understandable. But President (Donald) Trump brokered this deal and any attempt to undermine it from EPA would represent a betrayal of the president. I expect EPA would not do that after all the work that's gone into this issue." -- Sen. Chuck Grassley, (R-Iowa) www.grassley.senate.gov

"We're incredibly frustrated and very disappointed." -- Emily Skor, CEO, Growth Energy, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Chuck Grassley,  Emily Skor,  RFS,  

RFS,Sonny Perdue
Date: 2019-08-30
Speaking Wednesday in Decatur, Illinois -- corn country -- U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said President Trump will "take action to soften the effects of oil refinery exceptions for blending corn-based ethanol in motor fuel." It is "disappointing" that the Trump EPA granted the waivers, Sec. Perdue added.

Perdue either couldn't or wouldn't say what action the president will or might take, but noted that Trump believes the EPA waivers were "way overdone." Ethanol advocates contend that oil refinery waivers have reduced ethanol production by 2.6 billion gallons since Trump moved into the White House.

When grilled on the Trump administration's biofuels, trade and Renewable Fuel Standard and related policies Perdue replied "EPA will continue to consult with our federal partners on the best path forward to ensure stability in the Renewable Fuel Standard. The president will always seek to engage with stakeholders to achieve wins for the agriculture and energy sectors." So sayeth Sonny!(Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch, CBS, Various Media, 28 Aug., 2019) Contact: Office of US Sec of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, (202) 720-2791, feedback@oc.usda.gov, www.usda.gov, twitter.com/SecretarySonny

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS,  "Hardship" Waivers,  Ethanol,  Sonny Perdue,  Trump,  

Trump
Date: 2019-08-23
Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford would be "very disappointed if he saw his modern-day descendants wanting to build a much more expensive car, that is far less safe and doesn't work as well, because execs don't want to fight California regulators" (over vehicle emissions legislation).

"The Legendary Henry Ford and Alfred P. Sloan, the Founders of Ford Motor Company and General Motors, are 'rolling over' at the weakness of current car company executives willing to spend more money on a car that is not as safe or good, and cost $3,000 more to consumers. Crazy! -- President "The Donald" Trump, Aug., 2019.

Ford, GM, Honda, BMW and Volkswagen -- which interestingly was recently paid a more than $10 billion fine for deliberately skewering their vehicle emissions tests and cheating on excessive emissions levels -- have all struck a voluntary deal with California on emissions rules, defying Trump's bid to strip the state of its right to fight climate change by setting its own standards. According to California attorney general Xavier Becerra, Trump's proposed rules would create an extra 540 million metric tonnes of greenhouse gases. (Scource: City A.A., 22 Aug., 2019)

Editor's Note: It's hard not to ask -- "When will the Trump circus end?"

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vehicle Emissions,  Trump,  

Climate Change,NOAA
Date: 2019-08-19
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is reporting July, 2019 was Alaska's warmest month on record as well as the hottest month measured on Earth since records began in 1880.

The state's average temperature in July was 14.5 degrees -- 3 degrees above average and 0.4 higher than the previous warmest month of July 2004. Anchorage, the state's largest city, soared to 32.22 degrees for the first on the 4th of July, 2019.

As a sign of things to come, sea ice off Alaska's north and northwest shore and other Arctic regions retreated to the lowest level -- 7.6 million square kilometres -- ever recorded for July, according to the National Snow and Ice Data Centre at the University of Colorado. By way of comparison, the previous high sea ice loss was the size of South Carolina in July in 2012. (Source: NOAA, New Daily, AAP, 18 Aug., 2019) Contact: Alaska Division of Forestry, (907) 269-8463, Tim Mowry, forestry.alaska.gov; University of Alaska Fairbanks International Arctic Research Centre, Brian Brettschneider, Climate Researcher, (907) 474-2484, www.uaf-iarc.org; NOAA, Benjamin Friedman, (301) 713-1208, www.noaa.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  NOAA,  

NBB
Date: 2019-08-16
"Here we go again. Last week, the U.S. EPA granted 31 out of 38 retroactive small refinery exemptions for 2018. I can't contain the frustration and utter disappointment I have with how this administration is handling its responsibility of administering the RFS.

"Congress passed the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) back in 2007, signed into law by George W. Bush -- a lifelong oil and gas guy. The law was passed to encourage investment in advanced biofuels like biodiesel, renewable diesel and renewable jet fuel. Biodiesel producers responded, making the investments and building an industry that today produces more than 2 billion gallons of transportation fuel each year. This market also provides added value to feedstocks such as soybean oil, used restaurant oil and animal fats.

"The oil industry feverishly insists that the ethanol industry isn't harmed by small refinery exemptions because production has grown. But what about biodiesel? They never mention us because they know that small refinery exemptions disproportionately affect biodiesel because of the way the RFS is constructed.

"We have said again and again -- biodiesel is very different from ethanol. The president (Trump) was instrumental in clearing the path for higher blends of ethanol year-round when he lifted the RVP waiver this summer, which we were supportive of. He and his EPA administrator have mentioned E15 when they have spoken about what they believe to be the minor impact of exempting RFS gallons. It's as though they think we are dumb enough to not understand that they are giving with one hand but taking away with the other.

"Now, back to biodiesel. E15 does nothing to expand demand for biodiesel. Ethanol is not biodiesel. In fact, the RFS recognized this by establishing its own category for biodiesel, separate from ethanol, called biomass-based diesel. Policymakers at the time recognized the need to segment biodiesel and renewable diesel within the bigger RFS pool so that growth in those products could be differentiated in the overall program and we would see advancements of biofuels in both the gasoline and diesel sector.

"Fast forward to 2019 and we now have an EPA that, two months ago, proposed a draft rule to hold the biomass-based diesel category flat for 2020, keeping it at 2.43 billion gallons for the second year in a row and then, just last week, the same EPA grants nearly one-half billion gallons of biomass-based diesel waivers. To highlight the hypocrisy in this action, while filing the draft rule two months ago, the EPA documented, in writing, the fact that they expected to grant zero (that's zero as in none, zilch, nada) gallons of small refinery waivers in 2020. And we're supposed to understand and accept that move?

"Biodiesel and renewable diesel year after year fill more than 90 percent of the RFS volumes reserved for advanced biofuels. But EPA complains that advanced biofuels have not materialized quickly enough to meet the goals of the RFS. Now -- as seen last week -- the agency is holding its thumb on the industry and blocking growth. Not only blocking growth, but helping to reduce demand through small refinery exemptions.

"As the agency continues to hand them out to every refiner that asks, the damage could reach $7.7 billion or 2.54 billion gallons, according to Scott Irwin, an agricultural economist from the University of Illinois. A 'small' oil refinery, by RFS definition -- one that processes 75,000 bpd of oil and produces nearly a billion gallons of fuel a year -- would have an RFS obligation to use just 20 million gallons of biodiesel or renewable diesel. Many U.S. biodiesel producers are smaller than that -- just one small refinery exemption would eliminate their entire market. And the EPA granted 31 of them.

"President Trump vowed to protect and defend American farmers. In fact, he calls them patriots. But his actions will put the biodiesel producers those same farmers depend on for their market, out of business. It's already happening, and it's having a devastating impact on rural communities across the nation.

"President Trump and EPA Administrator Wheeler should clearly know what this means to the workers, producers, farmers and investors in the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry -- their new round of unwarranted RFS exemptions just destroyed jobs and a valuable marketplace for hardworking Americans, including those patriotic soybean farmers who Trump has called on to be his willing allies in the trade dispute with China. If this is how the EPA administrator treats the president’s allies, I'd hate to see how he treats his enemies. (Source: NBB, 15 Aug., 2019) Contact: NBB, Donnell Rehagen, CEO, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News NBB,  Biodiesel,  

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

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

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

NFU,EPA,RFS
Date: 2019-07-19
The US EPA's recently proposed renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for the year 2020 would set required biofuel use at 20.04 billion gallons next year, a marginal increase over this year's 19.92 billion gallons. The difference is primarily attributable to an expansion of cellulosic biofuel, from 420 million to 540 million gallons. The rule maintains the current 15-million-gallon target for corn ethanol, according to a NFU release.

In the face of the EPA's proposal, the National Farmers Union (NFU) has expressed its disappointment in the almost unlimited issuance of RFS refinery "hardship waivers", the newly released RVO's and the that the agency's failure not only to factor the lost demand into its proposed RVOs but to increase biofuel use at all. "At every turn, EPA and this (Trump) administration have undermined the intent of RFS and destroyed demand for billions of gallons of ethanol", NFU President Roger Johnson added. (Source: The Cattle Site, National Farmers Union, PR, July, 2019) Contact: National Farmers Union, Roger Johnson, Pres., (202) 554-1600, www.nfu.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS news,  NFU news,  National Farmers Union news,  "Hardship Waiver" news,  

Renewable Fuel Standard
Date: 2019-07-17
"I am incredibly disappointed to see that the EPA has failed to reallocate the millions of lost gallons due to their brazen and unprecedented use of small refinery exemption ("hardship") waivers. A robust RFS (renewable fuel standard) is essential to a healthy ag economy in Iowa and across the country." -- Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R), July, 2019 Contact: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, 515-281-5211, www.governor.iowa.gov/contact

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS,  "Hardship Waiver",  

Nebraska Ethanol Board
Date: 2019-07-10
The Nebraska Ethanol Board and the Cornhusker States Governor Peter Ricketts (R) have expressed their disappointment with the US EPA's recently proposed renewable volume obligations (RVOs) for 2020 under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

"While Nebraska appreciates the EPA's timely release of renewable volume obligations, this proposal does not reflect the agency's legal duty to enforce a robust RFS or the president's commitment to our farmers," Governor Ricketts said while urging the EPA to "reallocate waived gallons and ensure that the agency is giving our farmers and ethanol producers the predictability they need, especially during tough times for agriculture."

Nebraska Ethanol Board Administrator Roger Berry said the "Nebraska Ethanol Board is "extremely disappointed in the proposed Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) numbers released by the EPA. The fact that EPA did not account for any of the lost gallons due to Small Refiner Exemptions directly undermines demand for the quality fuel produced by our hard-working farmers and the 1,400 Nebraskans employed in the ethanol industry."

Nebraska is the second-largest ethanol producer in the U.S. with over 2 billion gallons production capacity from 25 ethanol plants processing over 700 million bpy of corn for a $5 billion per year economic impact in the state. (Source: Nebraska Ethanol Board, The Independent, 9July, 2019) Contact: Office of Gov. Pete Ricketts, www.governor.nebraska.gov; Nebraska Ethanol Board, Roger Berry, Administrator, (402) 471-2941, www.ne-ethanol.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS,  Renewable Fuel Standard,  RVO,  Nebraska Ethanol Board ,  

RFS,EPA,National Farmers Union
Date: 2019-07-08
Last Friday, the EPA released its proposed renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for the year 2020. The proposal would set required biofuel use at 20.04 billion gallons next year, a marginal increase over this year's 19.92 billion gallons. The difference is primarily attributable to an expansion of cellulosic biofuel, from 420 million to 540 million gallons. The rule maintains the current 15-million-gallon target for corn ethanol.

In the face of the EPA's proposal, the National Farmers Union (NFU) has expressed its disappointment in the almost unlimited issuance of RFS refinery "hardship waivers", the newly released RVO's and the that the agency's failure not only to factor the lost demand into its proposed RVOs but to increase biofuel use at all.

"At every turn, EPA and this (Trump) administration have undermined the intent of RFS and destroyed demand for billions of gallons of ethanol", NFU President Roger Johnson added. (Source: The Cattle Site, National Farmers Union, PR, 8 July, 2019) Contact: National Farmers Union, Roger Johnson, Pres., (202) 554-1600, www.nfu.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News "Hardship Waiver",  RFS,  National Farmers Union,  Biofuel,  Ethanol Blend,  

Date: 2019-06-24
In St. Micheal's on Maryland's Eastern Shore, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) has been recognized a Maryland Green Registry 2019 Leadership Award recipient. The awards recognize a commitment to sustainable practices, the demonstration of measurable results and the continual improvement of environmental performance.

CBMM sustainability achievements include efforts supporting energy efficiency, clean marina and boating practices, and the addition of rain gardens, swales, and a living shoreline to reduce stormwater runoff into the Miles River and Chesapeake Bay, while providing habitat for wildlife. (Source: Maryland Green Registry, Star Democrat, 23 June, 2019) Contact: Maryland Green Registry, .www.green.maryland.gov; Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, (410) 745-2916, www.cbmm.org

All Party Parliamentary Group for British Bioethanol
Date: 2019-06-12
In the UK, the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Bioethanol is reporting release of its its interim Introducing E10 in the UK report considering the to barriers to the introduction of E10 ethanol blended transportation fuel into the UK. The report notes:

The UK economy will likely lose its £1 billion ($1,272,225,000 US) bioethanol industry without the introduction of E10 by 2020 at the latest, and will continue to decline and likely disappear.

Introducing E10 would help the UK meet its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets, saving the equivalent of taking 700,000 cars off the road.

Petrol fuel sales volumes in the UK are now increasing, due to the decreasing popularity of diesel cars. With widespread adoption of electric vehicles still decades away, the use of increasing blends of biofuels in petrol to make cars greener and cleaner must be a priority.

E10, or a higher blend of bioethanol, could help tackle the UK's air quality problems and health issues caused by high particulate levels.

If the British bioethanol industry is lost, the UK is unlikely to attract further investment, including for the next generation of biofuels and enhanced animal feed co-products, which would deliver further economic and environmental benefits.

Lose of the UK Biofuels industry could also increases the country's dependence on imported biofuels, force British farmers to source animal feed from less sustainable sources, and contribute the the UK missing its fuels quality directive target -- 4 pct rising to 6 pct in 2020 -- and miss its GHG emissions targets. (Source: All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Bioethanol, June, 2019) Contact: All Party Parliamentary Group for British Bioethanol, info@britishbioethanol.com, www.britishbioethanol.com/about-the-appg

More Low-Carbon Energy News UK Bioethanol,  Ethanol,  Biofuel,  Biofuel Blend,  B10,