Date: 2020-11-18
The British government has commissioned a new study looking at the potential to build an orbital solar power station by 2050. Led by Dorking-based Frazer-Nash Consultancy, the new study looks into the feasibility of space-based solar power (SBSP) systems that use giant solar arrays to generate electricity and beam it to Earth in the form of microwaves.

The British government is reviving the idea of orbiting solar power plants as a zero-emission alternative energy source and has commissioned Frazer-Nash Consultancy to consider the engineering, economics and feasibility of solar power satellites and how the satellites could be assembled in orbit on a huge scale. The firm has partnered with Oxford Economics for additional insight to the economic assessment of the system and its possible benefit to the UK economy. (Source: UK Government, PR, 14 Nov., 2020) Contact: Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Martin Soltau, Space Business Manager, +44 (0)333 032 9500, www.fnc.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

Monash University ,CSIRO
Date: 2020-11-18
In the Land Down Under, Monash University is touting Airthena™ technology which it describes as "the most cost-effective method of capturing CO2 yet devised." A two metres square solar cell powered Airthena unit can capture six kilograms of CO2 per day, according to the Monash release.

The Airthena device, which uses a metal organic framework (MOF) that acts like a sponge to soak up CO2, could be adapted so that greenhouses capture their own CO2, or the CO2 could be used to feed algae for biofuel production or to make sustainable cement, according to the developers website.

The developers are in discussions with industry partners and investors, and hope to finalize plans to scale up the technology in the near future. (Source: Monash University, Website PR, 17 Nov., 2020) Contact: Airthena - CSIRO, www.csiro.au/en/Do-business/Commercialisation/Marketplace/CO2Gen; Monash University, www.monash.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News CSIRO,  Carbon Capture,  CO2,  

Greenbacker Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-11-18
Greenbacker Renewable Energy has, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, purchased a to-be-constructed 80-MW solar project from Houston-headquartered Broad Reach Power. The project, Fall River Solar, is located in Fall River County, South Dakota and has a 20-year PPA in place with the investment-grade utility Black Hills Power. Greenbacker will oversee the construction which is expected to reach commercial operation in Q4 2022.

With this acquisition, Greenbacker will own roughly 753.5 MW of generating capacity (including assets that are to be constructed), comprising 529.8 MW of utility-scale and distributed solar facilities, 192.6MW of wind facilities, 19.1 MW of battery storage and 12.0MW of biomass facilities, according to the company. (Source: Greenbacker Renewable Energy , PR, Nov., 2020) Contact: Greenbacker Renewable Energy, Charles Wheeler, CEO, generalinquiries@greenbackercapital.com, www.greenbackercapital.com; Broad Reach Power, Steve Vavrik, CEO, www.broadreachpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Greenbacker Renewable Energy,  Solar,  Broad Reach Power,  

BayWa r.e.
Date: 2020-11-18
Following up on our 29th April report, BayWa r.e. Solar Projects LLC is reporting completion of its 133.6 MW Fern Solar farm in Edgecombe County, North Carolina. The 353,000 photovoltaic (PV) panel installation will generate 238 GWh of power -- sufficient for roughly 12,000 households. (Source: BayWa r.e., PR, 16 Nov., 2020)Contact: BayWa r.e. Solar Projects LLC , Jam Attari, CEO, Christine Owens, VP Marketing , www.us.baywa-re.com/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News BayWa r.e.,  Solar,  

DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Solar Energy Technologies
Date: 2020-11-16
In Washington , the U.S. DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) is reporting the selection of 67 research project across 30 states for a total of $130 million in grant funding to reduce the cost of solar, increase U.S. manufacturing competitiveness, and improve the reliability of the nation's electric grid.

Along with advancing research in photovoltaics (PV), concentrating solar-thermal power (CSP) and systems integration, the projects in DOE's SETO Fiscal Year 2020 Funding Program include research in artificial intelligence (AI), hybrid plants, and solar with agriculture. The following projects are being funded:

PV Hardware Research -- $14 million for eight projects that aim to make PV systems last longer and increase the reliability of solar systems made of silicon solar cells, as well as new technologies like thin-film and bifacial solar cells.

Integrated Thermal Energy Storage and Brayton Cycle Equipment Demonstration (Integrated TESTBED) -- $39 million will be awarded to Heliogen, Inc., which will build and operate a supercritical carbon dioxide power cycle that will serve as a test site to accelerate the commercialization of low-cost CSP plants.

Systems Integration -- $34 million for 10 research projects that will develop resilient community microgrids to maintain power during and restore power after man-made or natural disasters, improve cybersecurity for PV inverters and power systems, and develop advanced hybrid plants that operate collaboratively with other resources for improved reliability and resilience.

AI Applications in Solar Energy with Emphasis on Machine Learning -- $7.3 million for 10 projects that use AI and machine learning to optimize operations and solar forecasting, improve situational awareness on the distribution system and behind the meter, and enable the integration of more solar generation.

Innovations in Manufacturing: Hardware Incubator -- $14 million for 10 research projects that will advance innovative prototypes to a pre-commercial stage, including products that support U.S. solar manufacturing and reduce the cost of installation.

Solar Energy Evolution and Diffusion Studies 3 -- $9.7 million for six research projects that will examine how information gets to stakeholders to enable better decision-making about solar and combining solar with energy efficiency, energy storage, and electric vehicles.

Solar and Agriculture: System Design, Value Frameworks, and Impacts Analysis -- $7 million for four projects that will advance the technologies, research, and practices necessary for farmers, ranchers, and others to co-locate solar and agriculture.

Small Innovative Projects in Solar (SIPS): PV and CSP -- $5 million for 18 projects that advance innovative, novel ideas in PV and CSP that can produce significant results in one year. (Source: US DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office, Website PR, 12 Nov., 2020) Contact: US DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office , www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  US DOE EERE,  

Toledo Solar
Date: 2020-11-16
In the Buckeye State, Toledo Solar Inc. reports receipt of $1.7 million in grant funding from the US DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) to develop semitransparent cadmium telluride (CdTe) photovoltaics, a solar-cell material that could be suitable for use in windows, building facades, and rooftop solar modules a new solar-cell technology believed to be suitable for integration into building construction.

The company will work with the University of Toledo's Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization Center, the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), and Project Vision Dynamics Inc. "to complete development of attractive, low-cost, high-efficiency solar window units and solar building facades through manufacturing innovations in CdTe module technology," according to the release. Prof. Michael J. Heben, the managing director of UT's Wright Center for Photovoltaics noted "Previously proposed options for incorporating photovoltaic power into building structures ave not made sense from a manufacturing point of view -- Toledo Solar's approach is entirely novel, and entirely doable, so the University of Toledo is very excited to be part of this effort."

Toledo Solar is the only U.S. manufacturer of CdTe thin film PV for both residential and commercial rooftop markets, according to the company website. (Source: Toledo Solar,PR, Toledo Blabe, 14 Nov., 2020) Contact: Toledo Solar, 567-202-4145, info@Toledo-Solar.com, www.toledosolar-inc.com; US DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office, www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News Toledo Solar,  Solar,  

Ameresco
Date: 2020-11-16
In the Bay State, Framingham-based energy efficiency and renewable energy specialist Ameresco, Inc. is reporting closing of a construction loan facility for up to $30 million to finance solar projects and assets.

The financing was secured through Fifth Third Bank, National Association. This non-recourse facility allows Ameresco to draw loan proceeds for solar projects in construction as a bridge to their permanent financing or sale upon commercial operation.(Source: Ameresco, PR, Solar Builder, 13 Nov., 2020) Contact: Ameresco, David J. Anderson, EVP, (508) 661-2264, www.ameresco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameresco,  Solar,  

Pearl Certification
Date: 2020-11-16
In the Old Dominion State, Charlottesville-based Pearl Certification is reporting the launch of its Green Door Web App, the virtual entryway to manage, maintain and improve a home's energy efficient performance.

Pearl Certification drives demand for home improvements like efficient heating and cooling systems, solar, and smart home devices by capturing their value for resale and appraisal. Pearl qualifies a network of contractors who improve home performance, and real estate professionals who ensure these homes are properly marketed and valued when sold. When marketed correctly, Pearl Certified homes can add 5 pct or more to a home's sale price, according to a company release. (Source: Pearl Certification, PR, 16 Nov., 2020) Contact: Peral Certification Green Door App, www.greendoor.app; Pearl Certification, Rachel Davis, VP, Lindsay Bachman, 412.443.2996, lindsay.bachman@pearlcertification.com, www.pearlcertification.com

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

Houston Advanced Research Center,International Living Future Institute,
Date: 2020-11-16
In the Lone Star State, the Woodlands-based not-for-profit Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) reports recept of Zero-Energy status from the Seattle-headquartered International Living Future Institute, making it the first commercial building in Texas to accomplish the feat.

Today, 100 pct of HARC's energy is sourced from on-site renewable energy, made possible by a $136,000 Green Mountain Energy Sun Club grant that supported the purchase and installation of additional solar panels, associated inverters and hardware on the roof of HARC's LEED® Platinum building.

The HARC building and campus grounds is 50 pct more energy efficient when compared to LEED® base targets and employs several sustainable features in its design. The building footprint and impervious paving are minimized, bioswales are designed to retain and filter water on-site to reduce the impact to nearby waterways, and the site’s biodiversity is preserved by protecting and restoring native vegetation. The building is also oriented to maximize the daylight reaching the building's interior spaces and rooftop solar installation. Other sustainable strategies include an added high-performance building envelope and rain screen that performs 2.5 times better than a typical enclosure and low-flow fixtures to conserve water while mechanical systems utilize a geothermal heat exchange system for optimal energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and thermal comfort. (Source: Houston Advanced Research Center, PR, Nov., 2020) Contact: Green Mountain Sun Club , Diana Maddock, diana.maddock@greenmountain.com, 713-703-4989 www.gmesunclub.org; International Living Future Institute, 206 223 2028, www.living-future.org; Houston Advanced Research Center, Kacey Wilkins, kwilkins@harcresearch.org , 281-364-6092, www.harcresearch.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Houston Advanced Research Center,  International Living Future Institute,  ,  

BlueScope Steel
Date: 2020-11-16
In the Land Down Under, Melbourne-based Australian steelmaker BlueScope Steel reports it plans to invest $20 million to help deliver renewable energy infrastructure in keeping with the New South Wales State Government's recently announced $32 billion, 20-year strategy to transition away from coal-fired power to hydro, wind and solar.

Most of Australia's renewable energy infrastructure is manufactured offshore and imported. Under its plan, BlueScope "will invest directly in our own plant, but also partner with innovators and entrepreneurs to develop new technology solutions in key industries like renewables, infrastructure, defense, manufacturing and sustainable buildings. An immediate focus will be supporting the manufacture of wind tower, solar farm, pumped hydro, electricity transmission facilities," according to the BlueScope release. (Source: BlueScope Steel, ABC News Australia, 15 Nov., 2020) Contact: BlueScope Steel, www.bluescope.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy news,  Australia Renewable Energy news,  

Hanwha Q Cells
Date: 2020-11-13
Seoul-headquartered Hanwha Q Cells, South Korea's leading solar cell and module manufacturer, reports it will construct a 41-MW floating solar power plant in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, that will generate sufficient energy for roughly 60,000 people.

The project, which is expected to begin construction before the year end, will incorporate the company's Q.Peak Duo Poseidon modules specifically designed for floating solar farms and offering peak power of 420 watts and energy efficiency of 20.3 pct, according to the release. (Source: Hanwha Q Cells, Website PR, Nov., 2020) Contact: Hanwha Q Cells, www.q-cells.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Hanwha Q Cells,  Solar Cell,  Floating Solar,  

Toshiba
Date: 2020-11-13
Japanese conglomerate Toshiba reports it will no longer accept orders for the construction of coal-fired thermal power facilities.

The announcement is in keeping with the company's goal of cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct by 2030 from its base level of 2019 and the commencement of operations of a large-scale carbon capture facility in Fukuoka, Japan. The company also plans to expand its solar renewable energy business to ¥650 billion ($6.17 billion) by 2030, from ¥190 billion yen ($1.80 billion) in 2019.

Toshiba's announcement comes as coal continues losing ground as Germany's Siemens Energy, U.S. multinational conglomerate General Electric (GE), India's largest coal-fired power generator, NTPC Ltd, and other energy sector majors increasingly abandon Old King Coal. (Source: Toshiba, Mercom India, Nov., 2020) Contact: Toshiba, www.toshiba.co.jp/worldwide/index.html

More Low-Carbon Energy News Toshiba news,  Coal news,  

FirstEnergy
Date: 2020-11-11
Akron, Ohio-headquartered FirstEnergy Corp. has released its Climate Position and Strategy Statement outlining the company's aggressive, business-wide plans to mitigate climate change risks, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The company also set an interim goal for a 30 pct reduction in greenhouse gases within the company's direct operational control by 2030, based on 2019 levels. Actions to achieve these goals include:

Hardening its transmission and distribution systems to reduce the physical risks of climate change;

Replacing conventional utility trucks with electric and hybrid vehicles and responsibly replacing other aging equipment that emits greenhouse gasses;

Reducing emissions at its small regulated generation fleet, while preparing for the transition away from coal-fired power in West Virginia by 2050;

Supporting renewable and distributed energy resources, including seeking approval in 2021 to construct a solar generation source of at least 50 MW in West Virginia;

Utilizing advanced technology to enable customers to manage their energy use;

Integrating carbon pricing into financial forecasting and empowering employees to identify opportunities that drive environmental responsibility.

In 2015, FirstEnergy announced plans to achieve a 90 pct reduction in CO2 emissions from 2005 levels by 2045. To date, the company has reduced CO2 emissions by approximately 80 pct by implementing new technologies and retiring or transferring generation assets. The new goals represent a significant expansion of this target and reflect FirstEnergy's transformation to a fully regulated utility. (Source: FirstEnergy Corp., PR, Website, 9 Nov., 2020) Contact: First Energy, www.firstenergycorp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News FirstEnergy news,  Carbon Neutral news,  Carbon Emissions news,  

More Low-Carbon Energy News FirstEnergy,  Carbon Neutral,  Carbon Emissions,  

Nashville , Vanderbilt University
Date: 2020-11-11
In the Volunteer State, the city of Nashville has announced a proposal to construct a 125-MW, utility-scale solar array project in partnership with Vanderbilt University, Nashville Electric Service (NES) and the Tennessee Valley Authority . The city will receive 100-MW of the proposed project’s output while Vanderbilt will take 25-MW.

Legislation to approve the project will go before city council on Nov. 17. The body previously approved a placeholder agreement between the city and TVA and NES this summer for purchase of renewable energy. If approved, the project is slated to be constructed in Oct., 2023 by Nashville-based Silicon Ranch. (Source: City of Nashville, PR, Tenneesean, 11 Nov., 2020) Contact: TVA, Doug Perry, VP Commercial Energy Solutions, (865) 632-2101, tvainfo@tva.com, www.tva.com; Nashville Electric Service, www.nespower.com; Vanderbilt University, 615-322-7311, www.vanderbilt.edu; Silicon Ranch, 615.577.4786, www.siliconranch.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Silicon Ranch,  Solar,  TVA,  Nashville Electric Service ,  

Sunman Energy
Date: 2020-11-11
In the Land Down Under, the Clean Energy Finance Corporation reports it has invested $9.6 million in the NSW-based solar tech company Sunman Energy.

The company's "eArc" solar cells are 70 pct lighter than glass solar cells, cheaper and easier to transport and install, malleable and durable enough to be glued onto roofs, incorporated into building materials and even shaped to fit refrigerated trucks.

The new funds will be used to expand the applications for the already proven technology and to ramp-up the company's international growth. (Source: Sunman, Sydney Morning Herald, 11 Nov., 2020) Contact: Sunman Energy, Shi Zhengrong, CTO, + 61 402 064 445, sales@sunman-energy.com, www.sunman-energy.com; Clean Energy Finance Corporation, Ian Learmonth, CEO, www.cefc.com.au

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sunman Energy,  Solar Cell,  

Wisconsin Public Service Corp.
Date: 2020-11-09
In Green Bay, Wisconsin Public Service Corp. (WPS) is reporting the state's first large-scale solar facility -- the Two Creeks Solar Park in Manitowoc County -- is now online.

The 150-MW, 500,000-panel solar facility is jointly owned by WEC Energy Group and Madison Gas and Electric.

WPS parent company-WEC Energy Group has committed to make its electric generation fleet net carbon neutral by 2050 and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 70 pct below 2005 levels by 2030. (Source: Wisconsin Public Service, EWC Energy Group, PR, 7 Nov., 2020) Contact: WEC Energy Group/Wind and Solar, Cody Craig, 414-221-2345, www.wecenergygroup.com; Wisconsin Public Service Corp., www.wisconsinpublicservice.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News WEC Energy Group,  Madison Gas and Electric,  Solar,  

Asian Development Bank
Date: 2020-11-09
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced that it approved a concessional loan worth $7.74 million and a project grant worth $2.73 million to advance the existing "Preparing Outer Islands for Sustainable Energy Development (POISED)" project in the Maldives.

In January 2020, the ADB and Maldives' environment ministry began installation of solar battery-diesel hybrid systems on 48 iof the 160 inhabited islands of the atoll nation. According to its press statement, the project will further expand renewable-based hybrid systems, energy management systems, distribution grid upgrades, and supervisory control and data acquisition systems on 12 outer islands. Besides, a climate and disaster-resilient electricity distribution system will be developed in an outer island of Maldives. It will also perform a pilot test for a solar photovoltaic-based operated ferry for transportation.

The ADB said that the existing diesel-based power generation grids have been replaced in 70 outer islands by installing over 9.5 MW of solar capacity, 5.6 MWh of battery storage, and 11.6 MW of energy-efficient diesel generators. (Source: ADB, PR, Nov., 2020)Contact: Asian Development Bank, Takehiko Nakao, Pres. +63 2 632 4444, www.adb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Maldives,  Asian Development Bank,  Solar,  PV,  

Statkraft,Solarcentury
Date: 2020-11-06
Oslo-headquartered Norwegian state-owned energy giant Statkraft AS reports it has agreed to acquire all of the shares in London-headquartered Solarcentury Holdings and its subsidiaries for a purchase price of £117.7 million. The transaction is conditional upon customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close before the year end.

The acquisition will give Statkraft access to Solarcentury's 6 GW project pipeline spanning Spain, the Netherlands, the UK, France, Greece, Italy and Chile. Solarcentury has developed 40 utility-scale projects total]ing approximately 1200 MWp across seven countries since 2013. (Source: Statkraft. PR, Nov., 2020) Contact: Solarcentury, Frans van den Heuvel, CEO, +44 (0) 20 7549 1000, www.solarcentury.com; Statkraft, Christian Rynning-Tonnesen, CEO, www.statkraft.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Statkraft,  Solarcentury,  Solar ,  

BNP Paribas
Date: 2020-11-06
South Korean asset management company Shinhan BNP Paribas Asset Management is reporting a $46 million commitment to ShinhanBNPP Green New Deal Fund No. 1, a new private fund targeting 17.325-MW wind turbines in South Jeolla Province, South Korea. The company also reports a second green finance fund -- Shinhan BNPP Green New Deal Fund No. 2 for photovoltaic power station on Jeju Island, South Korea. Shinhan BNP Paribas is also creating Shinhan BNPP Green New Deal Fund No. 3, a $178.2 million blind pool fund to finance wind power projects, fuel cells and biomass energy development projects.

Shinhan BNP Paribas is a 65/35 joint venture of Shinhan Financial Group and BNP Paribas Asset Management. Paris-headquartered BNP Paribas S.A. is the world's 8th largest bank by total assets with operations in 72 countries. (Source: BNP Paribas, Korea Herald, 5 Nov., 2020) Contact: BNP Paribas, www.group.bnpparibas/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News BNP Paribas,  Korea Renewable Energy,  Wind,  Solar,  Biomass,  

Iberdrola
Date: 2020-11-06
Spanish energy giant Iberdrola SA reports its €70 million ($81.9 million) 63-MW Herrera wind farm complex in Castile and Leon, Spain is underway.

The Herrera project will incorporate 14 Siemens Gamesa SG 4.5-145 turbines for three wind farms -- La Huesa, Valdesantos and Orbaneja -- and will generate sufficient power for 60,000 people and offset 50,000 tpy of CO2 when fully operational in 2021,

Iberdrola operates more than 5,100 MW in Castile and Leon -- 1,500 MW-- and plans invest over € 1.3 billion to construct over 1,800 MW of wind and solar projects in the region, according to the company website. (Source: Iberdrola, Website, PR, Renewables, 5 Nov., 2020) Contact: Iberdrola, +34 91 784 32 32, comunicacioncorporativa@iberdrola.es, www.iberdrola.es

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,  Wind,  

American Electric Power, ERCOT
Date: 2020-11-06
AEP Energy Partners (AEPEP), a subsidiary of Columbus, Ohio-headquartered American Electric Power Company (AEP) is seeking off-take proposals from new solar and new wind facilities located in Ohio and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).

In Ohio, AEP is seeking renewable energy purchase agreements of 10, 12 or 15 years for solar or wind facilities that begin operation between 2021 and 2023.

For the ERCOT sited projects, the company is seeking renewable energy purchase agreements of 12 years or less for solar facilities that begin operation between 2021 and 2023.

AEPEP will use the contracted off-take to support the company's growing loads in Ohio and Texas, including the recently passed City of Columbus Electric Service Aggregation Program.

Complete details about the Requests for Proposals are available at http://aep.com/rfp or by calling Ben Duckworth at (614) 583-7453. (Source: AEP Energy Partners, Website PR, 3 Nov., 2020) Contact: AEP, beduckworth@aepes.com, aepes.com, www.aep.com; ERCOT, www.ercot.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News AEP,  Wind,  Solar,  ERCOT,  

Iberdrola
Date: 2020-11-06
In Madried, Spanish energy giant Iberdrola AA chairman Ignacio Galan has announced the company will invest €75 billion over the next five years to double its renewable energy capacity and help it capitalize on the global move away from fossil fuels.

According to Galan, Iberdrola's renewables capacity will rise from 32 GW in 2019 to 60 GW in 2025 -- 26 GW of onshore wind, 16 GW of solar and 14 GW of hydro, with the remainder being offshore wind. (Source: Iberdrola Website News, 5 Nov., 2020)Contact: Iberdrola, +34 91 784 32 32, comunicacioncorporativa@iberdrola.es, www.iberdrola.es

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iberdrola,  Renewable Energy,  

ENGIE UK
Date: 2020-11-06
London-headquartered ENGIE UK reports it has been appointed by Sutton Housing Partnership (SHP) to use its recently launched whole house retrofit model "ENGIE Zero" to design, build and deliver a programme to transform existing properties across London into energy efficient, low maintenance, net-zero carbon homes.

ENGIE Zero offers a one-stop-shop for local authorities, housing associations and registered providers to decentralise, digitalise, decarbonise and increase home energy efficiency. Energy efficiency measures will include an airtight wrap to the eight selected properties, as well as installing a pre-fabricated super-insulated facade and roof system with integrated solar PV panels to generate electricity at the point of use. New high-performance windows and doors, air source heat pumps will also introduce renewable heating and a real-time monitoring and maintenance programme.

Planning approval has been granted and ENGIE will begin construction over the coming months, according to the release. (Source: ENGIE UK, PR, PBD Today, 6 Nov., 2020) Contact: ENGIE UK, James Cook, Divisional Director , +44 20 7320 8600, www.engie.co.uk

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

Forefront Power,Sunworks
Date: 2020-11-04
In San Luis Obispo, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) reports it will construct a new 2-MW ground mount solar array at California Men's Colony (CMC) as part of its ongoing effort to reduce its carbon footprint. CDCR has installed solar arrays and wind turbines at 17 institutions and expects to complete the CMC solar project next summer when it will generate approximately 25 pct of the institution's annual electric power requirements.

The system will be constructed by a third-party developer, Forefront Power, LLC. and their contractor Sunworks, Inc. and will be operated and maintained at the developer's expense with CDCR purchasing the solar array's power output at discounted rates under a 20-year ppa. (Source: CDCR, PR, 2 Nov., 2020) Contact: CDCR, Kathleen Allison, www.cdcr.ca.gov/green; ForeFront Power LLC, 855-204-5083, www.forefrontpower.com; Sunworks, Chuck Cargile, CEO, (866) 600-6800, www.sunworksusa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Forefront Power,  Sunworks,  

University of California San Diego
Date: 2020-11-04
The University of California San Diego (UCSD) reports it will receive $39 million in grant funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for construction of a test-bed to allow universities, utilities and industry to gain a better understanding of how to integrate renewable energy resources into the power grid and "to validate future technologies for autonomous energy grids in real-world scenarios."

The DERConnect tes-tbed will include more than 2,500 distributed energy resources on the UCSD campus' microgrid, including an energy storage facility, fuel cells and solar panels, a dozen classroom and office buildings and 300 charging stations for electric vehicles.

The goal is to begin testing equipment in 2022, and to make the testbed available to outside research teams and industry by 2025. (Source: UCSD, PR, Times of San Diego, 2 Nov., 2020) Contact: UCSD, Prof. Jan Kleissl, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, (858) 534-8087, jkleissl@ucsd.edu, www.ucsd.edu; National Science Foundation, www.nsf.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News University of California San Diego,  Renewable Energy,  National Science Foundation,  Energy Storage,  

Yellow Door Energy
Date: 2020-11-04
In the UAE, Dubai-based solar energy and energy efficiency specialist Yellow Door Energy is reporting commissioning of a 2 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar plant for Future Pipe Industries (FPI) in Dubai Industrial City.

The 6,000 panel, 18,000 square-meter array is expected to generate 3,200 MWh of energy in its first year of operation -- equivalent to reducing 1,300 tpy of carbon emissions. (Source: Yellow Door Energy, PR, 25 Oct., 2020) Contact: Yellow Door Energy, Jeremy Crane, CEO, +971 4 454 3033, www.yellowdoorenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Yellow Door Energy ,  Solar,  

Atlas Renewable Energy
Date: 2020-11-04
Miami-headquartered Atlas Renewable Energy is reporting a $67 million (US) loan from IDB Invest and Norway's DNB Bank ASA to finance construction of its 187 MW Jacaranda solar project in the municipality of Juazeiro, State of Bahia, Brazil.

When fully operational, the Jacaranda solar project will generate 440GWh per year – sufficient power for 750,000 inhabitants -- and avoid approximately 35,000 metric tpy of CO2 emissions. The solar project has a 15-year PPA with a Brazilian subsidiary of the American material science giant Dow Inc.

Atlas Renewable Energy develops, builds, and operates renewable energy projects with long-term contracts across Latin America. The company's portfolio is 2.2GW of contracted projects in development, construction, or operational stages, and aims to expand by an additional 4GW in the next years. (Source: Atlas Renewable Energy, Website News, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: Atlas Renewable Energy, 786 358 5614, www.atlasrenewableenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Atlas Renewable Energy,  Solar,  

Vergy
Date: 2020-11-04
Denver-headquartered private alternative asset management company Bow River Capital is reporting the sale of Phoenix-based independent energy services company (ESCO) Veregy to middle-market private equity firm Court Square Capital.

Veregy offers energy efficiency solutions and smart building technologies that optimize building performance and reduce energy consumption. The company deploys mechanical, plumbing, lighting, solar, battery storage, geothermal, building automation, and demand management measures to complete eco-friendly infrastructure upgrades. Veregy has delivered billions in energy performance contracts for clients in K-12 education, local government, hHealthcare, higher education and commercial sectors. (Source: Bow River Capital, PR, 3 Nov., 2020) Contact: Bow River Capital, 303.861,8466, info@bowrivercapital.com, www.bowrivercapital.com; Vergy, John Hobbes, CEO, 800.460.0995, www.vergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Vergy,  Energy Efficiency,  

Alliant Energy
Date: 2020-11-02
Madison, Wisconsin-based utility Alliant Energy is touting its "Clean Energy Blueprint for Iowa" plan to to increase the use of renewable resources, battery energy storage, build out the state's connected energy network and discontinue coal-fired power generation in Lansing by the end of 2022 while transitioning their Burlington Generating Station to natural gas in 2021.

A key part of the Clean Energy Blueprint, which aligns with changing consumer preferences for more renewable energy, includes adding up to 400 MW of solar by 2023. When the 400 MW of solar is combined with the nearly 1,300 MW of owned-and-operated wind and the power generated by the company's existing solar farms in Dubuque, Marshalltown and Cedar Rapids, as well as other renewable sources, nearly 50 pct of Alliant Energy's Iowa generation portfolio will be from renewables.

As we previously reported, Alliant Energy's 9,500 solar panel equipped Marshalltown Solar Garden and battery energy storage pilot facility at its Marshalltown Generating Station is now online. The 2.55-MW AC solar system generates sufficient power for nearly 400 homes and the system's 548kWh battery can be fully charged within two hours.

Alliant has three solar + battery sites in Iowa, each of which is being used to pilot different combinations of solar power and energy storage technology. Alliant constructed its first solar system at the Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and has two solar gardens in Dubuque which have been generating clean energy since 2017. (Source: Alliant Energy, PR, Nov. 2020) Contact: Alliant Energy Iowa, Terry Kouba, President , www.alliantenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Alliant Energy,  Clean Energy Renewable Energy,  

LONGi
Date: 2020-11-02
Xi'an, Shaanxi, China-headquartered LONGi Solar reports it has inked a deal with Schleswig-Holstein-based German-based solar products wholesaler EWS to distribute LONGi products in the north of Germany and Scandinavia.

Under the agreement, EWS will stock different versions of two modules from LONGi's Hi-MO4 series of solar modules, launched last year. The Hi-MO4 series is based on the M6 66mm wafer and incorporates mono-PERC and half-cell technologies. While no specific variants have been confirmed, EWS will stock versions suitable for residential and commercial projects, the company said. (Source: LONGI, 1 Nov. 2020)Contact: Lomgi Solar, Dr. Lv Jun, VP, + 86-021-6104 7380, Ted Yang, +86-153-886-37121, en.longi-solar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News LONGi,  Solar,  

PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center
Date: 2020-10-30
In the Keystone State, the not-for-profit Philadelphia-based PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center has released its Renewables on the Rise 2020 study that documents and compares the growth of solar power, wind power, battery storage, energy efficiency and electric vehicle technologies in each state, as well as nationally, over the past decade.

According to the study, in 2019, the U.S. produced 30 times more solar power and more than triple the amount of wind energy than in 2010. Utility-scale battery energy storage increased 20-fold since 2010 and energy consumption per person declined thanks to improvements in energy efficiency, and more than one million electric vehicles were sold in the U.S.

Download the Renewables on the Rise 2020 study HERE. (Source: PennEnvironment Policy & Research Center, Website PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: PennEnvironment Policy & Research Center, David Masur, Exec. Dir, Kelly Flanigan, Global Warming Solutions Associate, (215) 732-5897, (215) 732-4599 -- fax, www.pennenvironmentcenter.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  

First Solar,Vistra Corp.
Date: 2020-10-30
Tempe, Arizona-based thin-film solar module maker First Solar Inc. is reporting Irving, Texas-headquartered electric power generator and provider Vistra Energy Corp has selected its high-performance photovoltaic (PV) solar modules to power its six recently announced solar energy projects across the Lone Star State. First Solar will supply 869 MW (DC) of Series 6 modules to power five utility-scale solar projects, developed by Vistra, ranging from 50 to 200 MW (AC),

Vistra is the largest competitive residential electricity provider and largest competitive power generator in the U.S. with a diverse generation portfolio of approximately 39,000 MW. (Source: First Solar, Website PR, 21 Oct., 2020) Contact: Vistra Energy, Curtis Morgan, CEO, Jim Burke, COO, www.vistraenergy.com; First Solar, Georges Antoun, Chief Commercial Officer, Kathryn Arbeit, VP, Project Dev., David Brady, Inv. Rel., (602) 414-9315, dbrady@firstsolar.com, www.firstsolar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News First Solar,  Vistra,  Solar Module,  

European Energy
Date: 2020-10-30
Soborg, Denmark-based large-scale wind and solar energy developer European Energy A/S reports it will construct a 300 MW solar power farm in the southern Denmark the municipality of Aabenraa. The $159 million project is expected to break ground early in 2021 for operation before the year end when it will generate sufficient energy for roughly 75,000 households, according to the release.

European Energy has installed 1.5 gigawatts of wind and solar capacity in 11 countries, according to its website.

Installed solar capacity in Denmark stands at about 5 GW, up from 3 GW a year ago, and could reach 16 GW in 2025, according to Danish transmission grid operator Energinet.dk. (Source: European Energy, PR, Balkan Green Energy, 27 Oct., 2020) Contact: European Energy A/S, +45 88 70 82 16, www.europeanenergy.dk

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Energy,  Solar ,  

Clenera,
Date: 2020-10-30
Boise, Idaho-headquartered privately-held renewable energy company Clenera reports the selection of Renewable Energy Systems (RES) as its EPC partner for the 127.5 MW Wapello Solar Project in Iowa.

When online, the 800-acre Wapello Solar farm will generate sufficient power for 45,000 households. Central Iowa Power Cooperative will purchase all of the Wapello Solar project's output.

Clenera acquires, develops, builds and manages utility-scale solar farms and energy storage facilities throughout the U.S. The company's current operating portfolio exceeds 1.3GW with more than 14GW of solar and storage assets in development. (Source: Clenera, PR, 27 Oct., 2020) Contact: CIPCO, Bill Cherrier, CEO, www.cipco.net; RES Group, Tim Jordan, Senior VP of Solar Construction, www.res-group.com; Clenera, www.clenera.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Clenera,  Renewable Energy Systems,  

University of York
Date: 2020-10-28
In the UK, a study led by researchers from the University of York in partnership with NOVA University of Lisbon reports designing solar panels in checkerboard lines improves diffraction to increase light absorption by 125 pct and lead to the production of thinner, lighter and more flexible solar panels.

Solar-grade silicon -- used to create solar cells -- is energy intensive to produce, so creating slimmer cells and changing the surface design would make them cheaper and more environmentally friendly, the study notes. The study suggests the design principle could impact not only the solar cell or LED sector but also applications such as acoustic noise shields, wind break panels, anti-skid surfaces, biosensing applications and atomic cooling. (Source: University of York, The Week, 27 Oct., 2020) Contact: University of York, Dr Christian Schuster, Department of Physics, +44 (0) 1904 320 000, www.york.ac.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News University of York ,  Solar Cell,  Solar Cell Efficiency,  

Asian Renewable Energy Hub
Date: 2020-10-26
In the Land Down Under, the 26 GW, $50 billion Asian Renewable Energy Hub (AREH), the world's largest new energy generator that will establish Australia as a major global producer and exporter of green energy in the form of hydrogen, is reported to have been granted Major Project Status from the Federal Government.

Major Project Status recognizes the strategic significance of a project for Australia. In this case, AREH dovetails with the Government's Technology Investment Roadmap, which highlights hydrogen as a priority technology for development. Major Project Status support will streamline necessary approvals for construction to break ground in 2026.

The AREH will harness the world-class wind and solar resources of Western Australia's East Pilbara region, dedicating up to 23 GW of capacity for production of green hydrogen and green ammonia and providing up to 3 GW of energy production to local Pilbara users such as mining and mineral processing operations. (Source: AREH, Website, Oct., 2020) Contact: AREH, Brendan Hammond, Project Dir., info@asianrehub.com, www.asianrehub.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy,  Asian Renewable Energy Hub,  Green Hydrogen,  Hydrogen,  

Mass. DOER
Date: 2020-10-26
In the Bay State, the Department of Energy Resources' (DOER) Municipal Energy Technical Assistance (META) program reports awarding $250,000 in grant funding to support the development of clean energy projects in 20 cities and towns across Massachusetts.

META grants are used by Massachusetts municipalities, regional school districts, and water/wastewater districts to aid in the management of projects or the performance of studies to support the development of clean energy and energy efficiency in the Commonwealth. Open to all 351 cities and towns, META grants fund the services of expert consultants and contractors to assist with a diverse array of local energy projects.

Projects and studies receiving funding will support the performance of solar photovoltaic site evaluation, heating system replacements, ASHRAE Level II audits, technical analysis of energy use at drinking water and wastewater facilities and technical assistance with efficient building planning, maintenance, and operation. Part of DOER's Green Communities Division, the grants are funded through proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

Under the Green Communities Act, cities and towns must meet five criteria to be designated a Green Community and receive funding. 271 Bay State cities and towns accounting for 84 pct of the state's population have earned the Green Communities designation. (Source: Department of Energy Resources, Worcester Telegram, 25 Oct., 2020)Contact: Mass. Department of Energy Resources, 617-626-7300, www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-energy-resources; RGGI, www.rggi.org

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

Iran
Date: 2020-10-26
In Tehran, the Iranian Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization (SATBA) is reporting 28 new renewable power plants -- 44 pct solar and 34 pct wind -- will come online across Iran by the end of the current Iranian calendar year (March 20, 2021).

Currently, 54 companies are constructing renewable power plants totaling 229.39 MW generating 493,500 MWh of electricity per year and while reducing 318,000 tpy od CO2.

Iran is aiming for a 5,000 MW increase in renewable capacity to meet growing domestic demand and expand its presence in the regional electricity market by 2025. (Source: SATBA, Tehran Times, 25 Oct., 2020) Contact: Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Organization, +98 (21) 880 85006-9, www.satba.gov.ir

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

University at Buffalo,U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center
Date: 2020-10-26
University at Buffalo engineering researchers are reporting receipt of $1.4 million in U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory funding to develop a portable solar still -- a device that generates clean water using the power of the sun.

Solar stills use heat from the sun to evaporate water, leaving salt, bacteria and grime behind. Then, the vapor cools and condenses as purified water in a clean container.

Project leader Prof., Qiaoqiang Gan and colleagues have launched a startup, Sunny Clean Water, to bring the solar still to consumers.

The new federal funding will support further studies , research and testing promising materials and solar still designs, including scalable systems that work in cold environments. The project is also supported by Launch NY, Columbia Technology Ventures and NEXUS-NY, the National Science Foundation Small Business Innovation Research program and others. (Source: University at Buffalo, PR, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: University at Buffalo, Sciences, Economic Development, Charlotte Hsu News Content Manager, 716-645-4655, chsu22@buffalo.edu; Qiaoqiang Gan, PhD, professor of electrical engineering UB School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, www.buffalo.edu; U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, www.erdc.usace.army.mil

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

C-PACE,Energy Select LLC
Date: 2020-10-23
Leonardtown-based, Energy Select LLC, is now the only Maryland C-PACE registered contractor in Southern Maryland. Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) focuses on making commercial buildings more energy-efficient. This, in turn, allows county governments to create jobs, retain businesses, and help the local economy.

Government C-PACE policies are structured in such a way as to consider commercial and non-profit energy projects to be just as beneficial to the public as other vital infrastructure. C-PACE allows counties to access funding from private capital. This upfront financing enables commercial property owners to make any necessary energy efficiencies. The improvements are repaid via surcharges on property taxes.

Energy Select provides numerous clean energy solutions that qualify for the C-PACE initiative -- Solar Energy Equipment and High-Efficiency Lighting and Building Systems. The company also provided solar panel installation, energy audits, lighting retrofits, and other money-saving services for both residential and commercial customers. partner with local contractors to provide solutions such as Building Shell or Envelope Improvements. (Source: Energy Select LLC, PR, 22 Oct., 2020) Contact: Energy Select, Steven Tripp, Marketing, (301) 475-6727, info@energyselectllc.com, www.energyselectllc.com : C-PACE, www.MD-pace.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Select ,  C-PACE,  PACE,  Energy Efficiency,  

Enel Green Power North America
Date: 2020-10-23
Enel Green Power North America reports construction of the 284 MW1 Azure Sky solar + storage project in Haskell County, Texas, is underway. The project is the company's second hybrid project in North America that integrates a renewable energy plant with utility-scale battery storage.

The Azure Sky solar + storage project's nearly 700,000 PV bifacial panels are paired with an 81 MW battery and is expected to be operational by summer 2021.

Enel Green Power North America is a leading owner and operator of renewable energy plants in North America, with a presence in 19 US states and one Canadian province. The company operates 70 plants with a managed capacity of about 5.8 GW powered by wind, hydropower, geothermal and solar energy. (Source: Enel Green Power North America, Steel Guru, 22 Oct., 2020) Contact: Enel Green Power North America, Georgios Papadimitriou, Connor Branch, Bus. Dev., (978) 681-1900, www.enelgreenpower.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enel Green Power North America,  Solar,  Solar+Storage,  Energy Storage,  

BayWa r.e.,Alliander
Date: 2020-10-23
BayWa r.e. and its Dutch subsidiary GroenLeven are reporting a contract for the operation of the SinneWetterstof Hydrogen Pilot Project. The project is being built by the Netherland's largest energy developer and operator Alliander N.V. to research and test how local hydrogen production can follow the generation profile of a solar plant to ultimately reduce grid congestion.

This project, which is expected to be operational by late 2021, will source energy from a 50 MWp solar farm, previously built by GroenLeven, to generate green hydrogen as a storable form of energy by electrolysis of water.

Alliander N.V. provides utility services. The Company distributes electricity, gas, and heat, as well as offers solutions for energy metering and energy management (Source: Bay Wa r.e., Website PR, 21 Oct., 2020) Contact: BaWa r.e.,Manfred Groh, Strategy Manager, Corporate Strategy, Energy Policy & Sustainability, www.baywa-re.com; Alliander, +31 0 88 542 6363, www.alliander.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BayWa,  Hydrogen,  Solar,  Energy STorage,  

Microsoft
Date: 2020-10-23
"We are getting extremely impatient, frankly, for policy action on climate change. We support a carbon fee because we believe it's a policy mechanism that works and accords with economic principles." -- Lucas Joppa, Chief Environmental Officer, Microsoft, 3 May, 2019

"It's important that what we build leaves a positive legacy, that we don't build it on the back of fossil fuels, but rather, we build it on the back of the next generation of energy technology of wind and hydro and solar." -- Brian Janous, Microsoft Lead Energy Manager, 19 July, 2019, Microsoft Corporate Offices, www.headquartersinfo.com/microsoft-headquarters-information

More Low-Carbon Energy News Microsoft,  Climate Change,  

Alliant Energy
Date: 2020-10-23
In the Hawkeye State, Alliant Energy reports its more than 9,500 solar panel equipped Marshalltown Solar Garden and battery energy storage pilot facility at its Marshalltown Generating Station is now online. The 2.55-MW AC solar system generates sufficient power for nearly 400 homes and can the system's 548kWh battery can be fully charged within two hours.

Alliant has three solar + battery sites in Iowa, each of which is being used to pilot different combinations of solar power and energy storage technology. Alliant constructed its first solar system at the Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and has two solar gardens in Dubuque which have been generating clean energy since 2017. (Source: Alliant Energy, PR, KWBG, 22 Oct., 2020) Contact: Alliant Energy Iowa, Terry Kouba, President , www.alliantenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  Energy Storage,  Solar + Storage,  Alliant Energy,  

Storz Power, Lumin
Date: 2020-10-21
Charlottesville, Virginia-based energy storage and smart automation specialist Storz Power is reporting a strategic alliance with Scottsdale, Arizona's LUMIN®, maker of the leading energy management platform in the U.S. and Caribbean. The pairing enhances Storz Power's AI+Smart Access by providing grid-responsive load shedding technology, automating off-grid back up operation.

Storz Power specializes in AI+ enabled energy storage and IOT technologies for the renewable industry. Connecting all things energy with real time automation at any level for a smarter, more robust and efficient deployment. Storz Power ESS and BESS are also compliant with the ADR 2.0 Alliance for all current and future distributed grid, utility and micro grid level controllable assets needing to be deployed.

The LUMIN® platform helps home and building owners automatically make decisions about their energy use based on a myriad of factors including; solar production, battery state of charge, battery output power, electricity pricing, and grid requirements. (Source: LUMIN, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: StorzPower, Everett Brewer, CEO, www.Storzpower.com ; LUMIN, Val Newcomb. VP Marketing, (434) 806-1159, val.newcomb@luminsmart.com, www.luminsmart.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Storz Power,  Lumin,  Energy Storage,  Battery,  

Enphase Energy, SunCool
Date: 2020-10-21
Freemnont, California-based Enphase Energy, Inc., a global energy technology company and solar microinverter supplier, reports Boca Raton-based SunCool Energy is now offering the Enphase Encharge™ storage system in South Florida.

Encharge storage systems feature Enphase Ensemble™ energy management technology, which powers the world's first fully integrated, grid-agnostic microinverter-based solar-plus-storage system.

With a grid-agnostic system and fail-safe design with multiple, redundant microinverters in each storage device and a passive cooling system with no moving parts, the Encharge storage system offers maximum reliability and energy independence when the grid goes down and saves money when the grid is up. Encharge storage systems offers a maintenance-free battery system, remote software upgrades, and a limited 10-year warranty. (Source: Enphase Energy Inc., PR, 20 Oct., 2020) Contact: Enphase, Christian Zdebel, (484) 788-2384, pr@enphase.com; SunCool Energy, Greg Gearhart, (855) 446-2786, info@suncoolenergy.com, www.suncoolenergy.com

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

Netherlands
Date: 2020-10-21
At the Hague, the Netherlands government is reportedly planning to phase out subsidies for woody biomass power stations, subject to the availability of affordable and environmentally suitable alternative fuel sources. To that end, the government has asked the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) for its recommendations.

Under the present subsidies program, 628 Netherland biomass installations will receive roughly €11.4bn in subsidies over the next few years.

The PBL previously noted the use of biomass may be unavoidable if the Netherlands is to meet the EU targets on energy neutrality, adding that without using biomass the Netherlands will have to increase solar and wind energy installations at a faster rate than presently underway.

The government's advisory body SER has also recommended that subsidies for biomass power be phased out. Despite the subsidy decision, the government said it "remains convinced that the use of biomass is necessary in the transition to a climate neutral and circular economy by 2030 and 2050." (Source: Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, DutchNews.nl, 19 Oct., 2020) Contact: Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, www.pbl.nl

More Low-Carbon Energy News Woody Biomass,  Biomass Subsidies,  

Electrochaea
Date: 2020-10-21
Munich, Germany-headquartered renewable methane technology provider Electrochaea GmbH reports the opening of its U.S. subsidiary, Electrochaea Corporation, in Sacramento to develop commercial opportunities and partnerships in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Electrochaea offers a climate-friendly solution to store wind and solar generated electricity and recycle CO2 in the form of renewable methane -- a substitute for fossil fuels and major advancement in transitioning to a clean energy economy.

Over the past six years, Electrochaea developed renewable methane from the lab to industrial-scale pilot plants in Denmark and Switzerland, feeding the national gas grids. In 2019 the company opened a third pilot plant at the U.S. DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado, with support from SoCalGas. The company also has renewable methane projects under development in the U.S. (Source: Electrochaea Corporation , PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Electrochaea Corporation, Mich Hein, CEO, Beth Bray US Communications Director, (773) 241-4948, beth.bray@electrochaea.com, www.electrochaea.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Electrochaea,  Methane,  

UK Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-10-19
In the UK, under the new Green Homes Grant, the Government is providing vouchers of up to £10,000 to help cover the cost of residential energy efficiency and low-carbon heating improvements .

The vouchers will cover up to two-thirds of the cost for homeowners and landlords up to £5,000. Low-income households will be able to access £10,000 worth of vouchers to cover the full cost of insulation -- solid wall, cavity wall, under-floor, loft or roof insulation -- and low-carbon heating, such as air-source or ground-source heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and other renewable home heating . Vouchers also cover "secondary" measures such as draught proofing and double glazing completed prior to the voucher being issued. The voucher must be redeemed, and improvements completed by March 31, 2021.

Download Green Homes Grant program details HERE. (Source: Oxford Mail, 17 Oct., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Energey Efficiency Grants,  

Emera
Date: 2020-10-19
For more than 15 years, Emera’s strategy has been rooted in its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments. This year’s sustainability report highlights Emera’s continued commitment to investing in cleaner and renewable energy, while focusing on increasing reliability and maintaining customer affordability. Some of the achievements highlighted in this year’s report include a 35 pct reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across Emera’s operations from 2005 levels and an increase in installed renewable capacity across Emera from 832 MW in 2018, to 1,107 MW.

Decarbonization is central to Emera’s strategy, work that started in its home province. Nova Scotia Power has delivered one of the fastest transitions to cleaner energy in Canada and has already achieved greenhouse gas reductions that exceed the targets set by Canada in the COP 21 Paris Agreement.

The utility boasts one of the highest integrations of wind energy in North America at 18 per cent of total generation. Emera also completed the $1.7 billion Maritime Link project, enabling clean hydro energy to flow between Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia in 2021. In Florida, Emera has increased its solar capacity at Tampa Electric from nearly zero just a few years ago, to approximately 600MW today, with another 650MW to be installed by 2023. Additionally, the $850 million Big Bend modernization project is underway to significantly reduce the use of coal at the facility by repowering one coal unit with natural gas and retiring a second coal unit. Of Emera’s $7.5 billion capital spending plan through to 2022, 60 per cent is committed to initiatives to make energy cleaner and more reliable.

Emera Inc. is a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with approximately $32 billion in assets and 2019 revenues of more than $6.1 billion. The company primarily invests in regulated electricity generation and electricity and gas transmission and distribution with a strategic focus on transformation from high carbon to low carbon energy sources.

Download the Emera Inc. sustainability report HERE (Source: Emera, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Emera, Scott Balfour, President and CEO, www.emera.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Emera news,  Renewable Energy news,  Carbon Emissions news,