Consumers Energy
Date: 2020-03-04
In its 2019 Clean Energy Plan, Jackson, Michigan-headquartered Consumers Energy announced it aimed to reduce 90 pct of the carbon emissions it generates by eliminating the use of coal and working with customers to use energy more efficiently in an effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Consumers previously committed to being coal-free by 2040 in its Integrated Resource Plan which included building 6,000 MW of new solar by 2030. The utility also launched a public outreach campaign focused on energy efficiency. The new commitment will supplement Consumers' existing plan to eliminate coal, expand renewable energy resources and help customers reduce their energy use. Consumers also may offset further emissions through strategies such as carbon sequestration, landfill methane capture or large-scale tree planting. (Source: Consumers Energy, PR, Grand Rapids Business Journal, Mar., 2020) Contact: Consumers Energy, Patti Poppe, CEO, (517) 788-0550, info@cmsenergy.com, www.ConsumersEnergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Consumers Energy,  Net-Zero Carbon,  

Honeywell
Date: 2020-03-04
Honeywell is touting it's cloud-based, closed-loop Honeywell Forge Energy Optimization solution that continuously studies a building's energy consumption patterns and automatically adjusts to optimal energy saving settings without compromising occupant comfort levels.

This autonomous building solution is focused on cutting energy consumption and costs and decreasing building's carbon footprint without significant upfront capital expenses or changes to a building's current operational processes.

Honeywell Forge Energy Optimization autonomously and continually optimizes a building's internal set points across hundreds of assets every 15 minutes to evaluate whether a building's HVAC system is running at peak efficiency. Honeywell Forge Energy Optimization offers plug-and-play capabilities. (Source: Honeywell, Facilities Exec., Mar., 2020) Contact: Honeywell, www.honeywell.com/en-us

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

Hungary
Date: 2020-03-04
In the capital city of Budapest, the Hungarian Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Climate Policy is reporting plans to meet European Union climate change targets with a two-phase planned €55 billion investment in solar energy 2030, and up to €152 billion by 2050.

Hungary's combined energy and climate change plan targets a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 40 pct compared to 1990 levels, and a minimum 21 pct share of renewable energy sources in gross energy consumption by 2030. The country plans to increase its photovoltaic capacity, almost six times the current installed solar capacity to 6,000 GW while maintaining its wind energy capacity at 330 MW. (Source: Hungary Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Climate Policy, Budapest Business Journal, 29 Feb., 2020) Contact: Hungary Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Climate Policy, Peter Kaderjak, www.bruegel.org/author/peter-kaderjak

More Low-Carbon Energy News Solar,  

CIM Group
Date: 2020-03-04
In the Golden State, Los Angeles-based CIM Group LLC reports construction of its 20,000 acre, 2.7 GW Westlands Solar Park (WSP) in the San Joaquin Valley is underway. When fully online, the solar park could generate sufficient electric power for as many as 1,200,000 homes.

The WSP project has a completed and certified programmatic environmental impact report and is one of the few renewable energy zones identified as a Competitive Renewable Energy Zone (CREZ) through the Renewable Energy Transmission Initiative (RETI) process. (Source: CIM Group, Mar., 2020) Contact: CIM Group, 323.860.4900, 323.860.4901 - fax, www.cimgroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CIM Group,  Solar,  

Carbon Brief
Date: 2020-03-04
Further to our 20 Mar., 2019 report, according to data from Carbon Brief, the UK's carbon emissions fell by 2.9 pct in 2019 to its lowest level since 1888. The drop is attributed to coal's ever decreasing role in the UK energy mix and the increased reliance on renewable energy in electric power generation.

Since 2010, UK emissions from coal power sank 80 pct, CO2 from gas dropped by 20 pct and from oil fell 6 pct, according to Carbon Brief data. The Carbon Brief analysis is in agreement with the UK Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) data which confirmed low carbon sources -- including renewables and nuclear generation -- for the first time provided more than half of the UK's electricity in 2019, while overall energy production fell for the first time since 2014.

Climate Brief is funded by the European Climate Foundation. (Source: Carbon Brief, BEIS, Mar., 2020)Contact: UK Business and Energy Department, www.gov.uk/.../department-for-business-energy-and-industrial-strategy; Carbon Brief, www.carbonbrief.org; European Climate Foundation, www.europeanclimate.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Brief,  Carbon Emissions,  CO2,  UK Carbon Emissions,  

OGCI Climate Investments
Date: 2020-03-04
OGCI Climate Investments, a $1-billion investment fund of The Oil and Gas Climate Initiative, is reporting the formation of a consortium of OGCI members -- BP, Eni, Equinor, Shell, and Total -- to accelerate the development of the Net Zero Teesside carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) project in the northeast of England.

Net Zero Teeside aims to capture up to 6 mtpa of CO2 emissions from local industries. There are also plans for a combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) facility with carbon capture technology which will provide low-carbon power as a complement to renewable energy sources and underpin the investment in the infrastructure. Net Zero Teesside also said it signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with three existing industrial partners demonstrating the strong local commitment to decarbonizing existing local industry. (Source: OGCI, OIL GAS Facilities, 2 Mar., 2020)Contact: OGCI Climate Investments, +44 (0) 203 922 0853, contact@climateinvestments.energy, www. oilandgasclimateinitiative.com › climate-investments; Oil and Gas Climate Initiative, www.oilandgasclimateinitiative.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News CCUS,  Teeside,  Oil and Gas Climate Initiative,  ,  

Central Electricity Authority
Date: 2020-03-04
India's Central Electricity Authority (CEA), an arm of the power ministry, is reporting the country's renewable energy power generation stood at 10.325 billion units (BU) in January 2020, a 9.46 per cent increase from 9.433 BU generated in the same month in 2019.

The combined generation from solar, wind turbines, solar thermal, small hydro, biomass, bagasse, and other sources stood at 10.647 BU in December 2019, as against 9.083 BU of green energy generation for the same month in 2018, the data showed. Among renewable sources, wind power generated the highest amount of power followed by solar at 3,943 million units (MU) and 3,932 MU, respectively, in December 2019. For the corresponding month in 2018, solar generated more power than wind energy at 3,182.12 MU and 2789.24 MU, respectively.

According to the Australia-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, India's renewable energy sector needs between $500 billion and $700 billion by 2030 in new investments to meet its target of 450 GW of installed capacity. (Source: India Central Electricity Authority, PR reve, 2 Mar., 2020) Contact: India Central Electricity Authority, www.cea.nic.in

More Low-Carbon Energy News India Wind,  Wind,  

Energy Focus
Date: 2020-03-04
Solon, Ohio-headquartered sustainable LED lighting technologies specialist Energy Focus reports it has been awarded a $3.4 million contract to supply tubular LED (TLED) lighting products to the U.S. Navy by Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), a world-wide combat support agency in the U.S. Department of Defense.

The company expects to deliver on the contract beginning in the second quarter of 2020 with completion expected by year-end.

Since 2007, Energy Focus has installed approximately 650,000 lighting products including TLEDs, waterline security lights, explosion-proof globes and berth lights, saving more than four million gallons of fuel and 200,000 man-hours in lighting maintenance annually. (Source: Energy Focus, Renewable Energy, 3 Mar., 2020) Contact: Energy Focus Inc., James Tu, CEO, and President, (440) 715-1300, www.energyfocus.com

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

Kinetrex Energy
Date: 2020-03-04
Following up on our 8th Novemberm 2019 report, Indianapolis-based Kinetrex Energy is reporting the ribbon-cutting opening of of the Hoosier State's largest renewable natural gas (RNG) facility -- the $25 million Indy High BTU plant is capable of converting landfill methane gas into about 8 million gpy of RNG for transportation fuel.

Kinetrex developed the facility in conjunction with Australia-based sustainable energy producer EDL and South Side Landfill of Indianapolis.(Source: Kinetrex, Inside Indiana Bus., 2 Mar., 2020) Contact: Kinetrex Energy, Aaron Johnson, CEO, 317-886-8179, www.kinetrexenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Kinetrex Energy ,  Biogas,  Methane,  Landfill Methane,  RNG,  Renewable Natural Gas,  

RGGI
Date: 2020-03-04
Sitting in Richmond, Virginia State House and Senate legislators have given final approval to Virginia's proposed full participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). The legislation now awaits Gov. Ralph Northam's (D) signature into law.

RGGI member states include Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. New Jersey is expected to rejoin and Pennsylvania is in the process of joining this year. (Source: Shore Daily News. 3 Mar., 2020)Contact: RGGI, www.rggi.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RGGI,  Virginia RGGI,  Cap and Trade,  

Enexor BioEnergy
Date: 2020-03-04
Franklin, Tenn.-based Enexor BioEnergy is touting the release of its patented "Bio-200" Bio-CHP direct combustion system that converts various organic biomass waste into on-site energy.

The Bio-200 is a small-scale -- 75 kW power, 125 kW thermal -- modular unit that provides 24/7 continuous renewable power. The hurricane-proof unit is ideally suited for renewable energy microgrids and can be installed and commissioned within one day. The unit, which is fueled by a blend of on-site or locally sourced organic materials, offsets as much as 2,200 metric tpy of CO2 emissions.

The company's Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) partnership model eliminates upfront customer capital-outlay and delivers immediate cost savings unlike typical on-site energy projects, according to the company website. (Source: Enexor BioEnergy, PR , EngineerLive, 3 Mar., 2020) Contact: Enexor BioEnergy, Lee Jestings, CEO, (615) 656-0762, info@enexor.com, www.enexor.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enexor BioEnergy ,  

Ghana,Switzerland
Date: 2020-03-04
In Bern, the Swiss Federal Council is reporting the signing of a MoU with the Government of Ghana to strengthen cooperation between the two countries under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on climate actions.

The bilateral agreement will facilitate Ghana's National Clean Energy Access Programme (NCEP), which will enable the country to receive international financial support to implement projects in fulfilling its climate commitments. (Source: Various Media, Ghana Web, 3 Mar.,2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change,  Paris Climate Agreement,  Carbon Emissions,  

IFC,Standard Bank of South Africa
Date: 2020-03-04
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group and one of the world's largest green bond issuer, reports it has invested $200 million in the Johannesburg-based Standard Bank of South Africa Limited's green bond placed on the London Stock Exchange.

The 10-year green bond -- Africa's largest and South Africa's first offshore green bond issuance -- is compliant with the International Green Bond Principles and will enable Standard Bank Group's Sustainable Finance Business Unit to on-lend to and finance climate-smart projects in South Africa such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, water efficiency and green buildings. (Source: IFC, 2 Mar., 2020) Contact: IFC, www.ifc.org; Standard Bank of South Africa, Nigel Beck, Sustainable Finance, www.standardbank.co.za

More Low-Carbon Energy News IFC,  Green Bond,  Climate Change,  

India Biofuel
Date: 2020-03-04
The Times of India is reporting the Indian federal government plans to increase the country's ethanol from sugarcane and molasses production capacity from 3.55 billion lpy to 9 billion lpy within two years. The government has also "approved in principle" 362 new ethanol facilities in sugar mills and an increase in the national ethanol-petrol blending rate to 10 pct (B10) by 2022.

The increases are intended to redirect 700,000-800,000 tpy of surplus sugar in each of the next two years for ethanol production, cut fuel and oil imports and to maximize profitability of sugar companies, according to officials. (Source: Economic Times India, 3 Mar., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ethanol India Ethanol,  Biofuel Blend,  

Vestas,Nexif Energy
Date: 2020-03-04
Danish wind turbine manufacturer Vestas reports it has inked a long-term Active Output Management 5000 (AOM 5000) contract for the 35, M140 3.6 MW Senvion turbines at Nexif Energy's 212 MW Lincoln Gap wind farm in South Australia.

Under the agreement, Vestas will deliver to maximize the project's energy production. Delivery of service will commence immediately and will include scheduled maintenance for the substation, all high voltage equipment and the facility roads.

Nexif and Denham Capital partnered to form Nexif Energy, a South East Asian, Bangladesh and Australian focused independent power producer. (Source: Vestas, Mar., 2020) Contact: Nexif Energy, Matthew Bartley, Founder and Co-CEO www.nexifenergy.com;V estas, +45 97 30 00 00, vestas@vestas.com, www.vestas.com; Senvion, Jurgen Geissinger, CEO, +49 40 5 55 50 90 0, www.senvion.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Nexif Energy,  Vestas,  Senvion,  Wind,  Wind Turbine,  

Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association
Date: 2020-03-02
The Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association (UNICA) reports Brazil and India have inked a technical cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the use of Ethanol as an alternative fuel in India.

The MoU calls for the exchange of information on the production and sustainable use of ethanol as well as encouraging and increasing investment in biofuels, bioelectricity, and biogas. I also aims to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help redirect the sugar surplus in India, which currently requires government subsidies to guarantee competitive prices in the international market.

India has set an Ethanol blending target of 10 pct by 2022 rising to 20 pct by 2030. (Source: UNICA, EnergyInfraPost, 28 Feb., 2020) Contact: Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association, (202) 506 5299, (202)747-5836 - fax (Washington DC office), english.unica.com.br

More Low-Carbon Energy News Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association,  India,  Etanol,  

Pivot Power,Wartsila
Date: 2020-03-02
Finnish technology group Wartsila Energy is reporting receipt of an order from UK-based energy storage specialist Pivot Power, an EDF Renewables company, for delivery of 100 MW of lithium-ion battery energy storage, including 10-year service and support agreements, for two, 50 MW projects in the UK. The projects are both expected to be completed and online before the year end.

The two 50 MW lithium-ion battery projects will be the first projects completed as part of Pivot Power's programme to develop, own and operate up to 2GW of grid-scale energy storage and high volume power connections which are directly connected to the UK high-voltage transmission system.

The systems are based on Wartsila's advanced energy management software platform GEMS, which leverages AI and machine learning to enable the intelligent management of large-scale energy storage systems. (Source: Wartsila, PR, utilities, 29 Feb.,2020) Contact: Wartsila Energy, Christophe Demay Senior Business Development Manager, +33 6 7889 2182, christophe.demay@wartsila.com, Andrew Tang, VP, Energy Storage and Optimization, www.wartsila.com; Pivot Power, Matt Allen, CEO, www.pivotpower.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Lithium-Ion,  Battery,  Pivot Power,  EDF Renewables,  Energy Storage,  Wartsila,  

USDA
Date: 2020-03-02
In Washington,the USDA is reporting Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue has directed the agency to acquire alternative fueled -- biodiesel, E85 -- vehicles (AFV) when replacing conventionally fueled vehicles. USDA owns and operates 37,000 vehicles and replaces approximately 3,000 every year.More specifically, the USDA will:

Acquire E85 or biodiesel-capable vehicles that meet USDA mission requirements;

Use station locator websites and applications to fuel with E15, E85, and biodiesel where available;

Prioritize the purchase of E15 for gasoline vehicles without E85 capability and the purchase of renewable diesel blends for diesel vehicles without B20 capability

For USDA locations that have in-house refueling pumps, coordinate with fuel vendors to acquire and provide biofuel blends, including E15, E85, B20 and higher biodiesel blends, and renewable diesel blends.

These actions have the potential to increase USDA's annual consumption of E15 by up to 9 million gallons, E85 by 10 million gallons, and biodiesel and renewable diesel blends by up to 3 million gallons.

The agency also announced it will offer $100 million in grant funding this year for the newly created Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to help transportation fueling and biodiesel distribution facilities install, retrofit, and/or upgrade fuel storage, dispenser pumps, related equipment and infrastructure to be able to sell ethanol and biodiesel.

Download HBIIP program details HERE. Download the USDA order HERE. (Source: USDA, 28 Feb., 2020) Contact: USDA, Sonny Perdue, Sec.,www.usda.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA,  Biofuel Fleet,  Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  Biofuel Infrastructure,  

Finniar
Date: 2020-03-02
Finland's national airline Finnair reports it is adjusting its voluntary "Push for Change" emissions offset and biofuel programmes which to date have offset nearly 6,900 tonnes of CO2.

Going forward, instead of being voluntary, the company's carbon offset and biofuel purchase schemes will be sold to customers as they order tickets. The cost of offsetting a round trip domestic flight was €1 while European and international return flights cost €2 and €6 respectively.

The collected funds support emissions reduction projects in Mozambique, Africa through the Nordic Environment Finance Corporation (Nefco), a financial institution founded by governments of the five Nordic countries in 1990. The funds are applied to the purchase of biofuels and emissions reductions projects which support the use of fuel efficient stoves in Mozambique, according to the company. (Source: Finnair, Yle, 3 Mar., 2020) Contact: Finniar, www.finnair.com/fi/gb/pushforchange

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

DOE
Date: 2020-03-02
Reporting from Sacramento, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, and a coalition of 16 attorneys general and the City of New York, have filed a lawsuit in the Second Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the the US DOE's Dec. 27, 2019 final determination rejecting stronger energy efficiency standards for common light bulbs.

The DOE's "unlawful and ill-advised decision ignores direction from Congress to transition the nation to inexpensive, efficient, and widely available lighting sources. It would increase greenhouse gas emissions and consumers' energy costs," the suit claims.

According to the California AG release, approximately three billion lighting sockets -- nearly half of all lighting sockets in U.S. homes -- contain bulbs affected by this proposal. DOE's decision directly impacts consumers who stand to lose significant energy savings.

On December 27, 2019, DOE issued its final determination halting energy efficiency improvements to the lightbulbs in question, also known as General Service Incandescent Lamps (GSIL). It concluded that improved GSIL standards were not "economically justified." DOE's decision is part of an ongoing effort by the agency to stifle progress in energy efficiency. The agency's decision attempts to undermine a provision in federal law that moves retailers away from selling lightbulbs that do not meet the minimum standard of 45 lumens per watt. This decision would cost consumers $12 billion each year in lost electricity savings by 2025 -- a $100 loss per household per year, accoding the the California AG release.

DOE's decision amounts to a failure to enact a stronger standard in violation of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

Joining Attorney General Becerra in filing this lawsuit are the Attorneys General of New York, New Jersey, Oregon, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia, as well as the City of New York. (Source: Office of California Attorney General, Xavier Becerra, YubaNet, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: Office of California Attorney General, Xavier Becerra, www. oag.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency.Light Buld Energy Efficiency,  

IEA Bioenergy
Date: 2020-03-02
"Bioenergy already plays an important role in the global energy economy, and it's expanded use is a critical element in future low carbon scenarios, where it can especially play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the transport sector. Decarbonising transport will require a range of bio-based transport fuels, and especially advanced low carbon fuels which are suitable for long-haul transport applications including aviation. A number of appropriate technologies to produce such fuels are being developed and commercialised. However so far, their production has only reached a limited scale.

"The costs of these advanced Biofuels are currently higher than those of the fossil fuels which they can displace and of more conventional biofuels such as ethanol from sugar or corn, or biodiesel. It is therefore important to consider what scope there is to reduce the production costs of a range o advanced biofuels, and to identify under what conditions they could become affordable."

Download the full IEA Advanced Biofuels -- Potential for Cost Reduction report HERE. (Source: IEA Bioenergy, Feb., 2020) Contact: IEA Bioenergy, www.ieabioenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News IEA Bioenergy,  Biomass,  Biofuel,  Bioenergy,  

Repsol
Date: 2020-03-02
In Madrid, Spanish energy major Repsol SA is reporting the addition of the Delta 2, 860 MW wind farm project in Aragon, Spain to its renewables portfolio.

The project, which incorporates 26 separate wind farms in Huesca, Zaragoza, and Teruel provinces, will be constructed and operated by the subsidiary Repsol Electricidad y Gas and will be developed over the next three years. When fully operational, they will be able to supply electricity to around 1.8 million people.

Repsol's renewable assets under development total 2,045 MW. (Source: Repsol, Feb., 2020) Contact: Repsol SA, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, (+34) 91 753 8100, 91 753 8000, sacportal@repsol.com, www.repsol.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Repsol,  Wind,  Wind Spain,  

Ameren,Ameren Missouri
Date: 2020-03-02
St. Louis-based Ameren Missouri reports that under its Smart Energy Plan it will its will invest $7.6 billion over five-years in wind and solar energy, energy storage and smart meters to serve its customers, primarily in Missouri. The plan includes;

More than 2,000 infrastructure improvement projects across the state totaling $5.3 billion in capital investments over the next five years, including approximately $1 billion in electric investments in 2019.

Major renewable energy projects to continue the transition to a cleaner energy future for customers, including $1 billion for wind energy in 2020. This also includes modernizing the energy grid to allow Ameren Missouri to add more solar energy and battery storage on the system to cost-effectively boost reliability, particularly in rural areas.

New smart grid sensors, switches and self-healing equipment to rapidly detect and isolate outages- reducing the number of outages and speeding power restoration when service interruptions occur.

A stronger, more secure energy delivery backbone including installing 12,000 new utility poles for storm hardening, many fortified with composite materials to better withstand severe weather.

More than 400 miles of new underground cable and equipment to create a more efficient and reliable underground energy delivery system that better serves customers.

Over 70 new or upgraded substations to increase energy service reliability and serve more customers through a streamlined network that is more cost-effective and efficient.

Addition of 800,000 smart electric meters through 2023 to give customers more insight and control of their energy options and costs.

Details of Ameren's Smart Energy Plan are HERE. (Source: Ameren Missouri, Ameren Corporation, PR, Feb., 2020) Contact: Ameren Missouri, Michael Moehn, Pres., Andrew Kirk, 314.554.4859, akirk@ameren.com, www.ameren.com, Andrew Kirk, 314.554.4859, akirk@ameren.com, Twitter at @AmerenMissouri, Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.

More Low-Carbon Energy News Ameren Missouri,  

City of Manchester
Date: 2020-03-02
In the UK, the city of Manchester (pop. 2.8 million), in keeping with its pledge to reach net-zero carbon by 2038, has issued a call to "collective action" on the climate crisis with proposals to halve its greenhouse gas emissions by 2025, primarily through increased energy efficiency.

To that end, the city council wants to retrofit and upgrade the energy efficiency of as many of the 350 city-owned buildings, install solar and wind energy generation capacity on city owned sites and housing complexes, complete the ongoing replacements of the city's street lighting with energy efficient LED lighting, promote energy conservation, incentivize cleaner and more efficient transportation and other energy efficiency initiatives.

Under the plan, the city council will work with and continue to fund the Manchester Climate Change Agency to establish community-wide climate change related engagement activities and to encourage businesses to improve their energy efficiency reduce their carbon footprint. (Source: City of Manchester, Manchester Evening News, Mar.,2020) Contact: Manchester Climate Change Agency, www.manchesterclimate.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  

Canadian Federation of Independent Business
Date: 2020-03-02
A recently released report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has found that 82 pct of Canadian farmers say the federal carbon tax is negatively impacting their business. On average, farmers estimate they will pay almost $14,000 in federal carbon taxes in the first year it applies to them -- April 1st, 2019 to March 31st, 2020). The report also found:

Farmers care about the environment: When asked what motivates their business to implement measures to improve environmental quality, 87 pct of Canadian farmers said they were motivated by their own personal views;

78 pct of Canadian farmers have taken action in the last several years to lessen their environmental impact;

93 pct of farmers in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario agree the federal government should not charge GST (five per cent sales tax) on the federal carbon tax as it currently does;

Farmers cannot pass the federal carbon tax costs on to their customers, despite the government's assurances: 83 per cent of farmers in the field crop sector said they would be able to pass on less than 10 per cent of the federal carbon tax costs to customers between April 1st, 2019 and March 31st, 2020. Over 78 per cent of these farmers will have to absorb the entire cost.

To address the issue, CFIB recommends the federal government:: exempt natural gas, propane, and aviation fuel used by farmers for farming activities such as drying grain, heating livestock facilities, or spraying crops from the federal carbon tax, including those farm expenses from 2019; end the practice of charging GST on the federal carbon tax; stop further increases in the overall tax burden (e.g. CPP and carbon tax) on farmers; and work to improve Canada's overall tax and regulatory competitiveness in the agriculture sector. (Source: CFIB, Weyburn Review, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: CFIB, Marilyn Braun-Pollon, VP Western Canada and Ari-Business, 416-222-8022, 844-242-4400, 416-222-4337 - fax, www.cfib-fcei.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Canadian Federation of Independent Business,  Carbon Tax,  Canada Carbon Tax,  

City of Manchester
Date: 2020-03-02
In the UK, the city of Manchester (pop. 2.8 million), in keeping with its pledge to reach net-zero carbon by 2038, has issued a call to "collective action" on the climate crisis with proposals to halve its greenhouse gas emissions by 2025.

To that end, the city council wants to retrofit as many of the 350 city-owned buildings with more efficient technology, install solar and wind energy generation capacity on city owned housing sites and complexes, and complete the ongoing replacements of the city's street lighting with low energy LED lighting. The city will also invest roughly £10 million to replace diesel power fleet vehicles with alternative fuel and electric vehicles. City staff will also be incentivized to use cleaner transportation and to conserve energy.

The council also intends to plant 2,000 trees, hedge trees and four community orchards per year beginning this year. The city's existing tree coverage stores 124,330 tonnes of carbon, absorbs 4,980 tonnes and removes 84 tonnes of pollution, according to the city release.

Under the plan, the city council will work with and continue to fund the Manchester Climate Change Agency to establish community-wide climate change related engagement activities and to encourage businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and sign up to the zero-carbon ambition. (Source: City of Manchester, Manchester Evening News, Mar.,2020) Contact: Manchester Climate Change Agency, www.manchesterclimate.com

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

Savion LLC,Dominion Energy Virginia
Date: 2020-03-02
Kamsas City, Missouri-based utility-scale solar and energy storage project developer Savion, LLC is reporting the finalization of a 20 MW PPA with Richmond-based Dominion Energy Virginia Inc. for the $30 million Westmoreland County Solar project. The project is expected to break ground this spring for startup and commissioning befor the year end.

The Westmoreland County project is one of three projects totaling 115 MW at a cost of roughly $150 million that Savion is expected to construct in the Old Dominion State this year. (Source: Savion. PR, Virginia Business, 28 Feb., 2020) Contact: Savion, LLC, Rob Freeman, CEO, Kelly Cooper, Parris Communications (816) 931-8900, kcooper@parriscommunications.com, www.savionenergy.com; Dominion Energy Virginia, Keith Windle, VP Business Development and Merchant Operations, www.dominionenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Savion LLC,  Solar,  Dominion Energy Virginia ,  

Blue Source,City of Lincoln
Date: 2020-03-02
In the Cornhusker State, the city of Lincoln reports it expects the sale of biogas generated at an upgraded city wastewater treatment plant to produce roughly $2 million per year in new revenue when an $8 million upgrade is completed this summer.

Salt Lake City, Utah-based energy management company Blue Source is leading the project. Bluesource works with companies, governments and NGOs to reduce and mitigate environmental impacts. the company develops projects that create land, water and climate benefits using strategic partnerships, finance, innovation and markets to achieve these goals, according to the company website. (Source: City of Lincoln, Yankton Press & Dakotan, AP, 28 Feb., 2020) Contact: Blue Source Inc., Will Overly, VP Bus. Dev., 801-322-4750, www.bluesource.com; City of Linclon, Elizabeth Elliot, Director Utilities, 402-441-7548, 402-441-7590 - fax, www.lincoln.ne.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biogas,  Blue Source,  

New Jersey
Date: 2020-03-02
In Trenton, Garden State Governor Governor Phil Murphy (D) has announced the offshore wind solicitation schedule to meet the 7,500 MW offshore wind goal by 2035 and called upon the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to implement the schedule. Reaching 7,500 MW will generate enough electricity to power more than 3.2 million homes and meet 50 pct of the state's electric power need.

The proposed schedule calls for the next 1,200 MW solicitation to be opened by September 2020, with an award made by Q2, 2021.

New Jersey aims to source 50 pct of it energy from renewables by 2030 and achieve a 100 pct clean energy economy by 2050. (Source: Office of Governor Phil Murphy, PR, 28 Feb., 2020) Contact: NJ BPU, www.bpu.state.nj.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News NJ BPU,  New Jersey Offshore Wind,  Wind,  Offshore Wind,  

University of Pittsburgh
Date: 2020-03-02
In the Steel City, the University of Pittsburgh reports it has committed to become carbon neutral on the Pittsburgh campus by 2037. Through partnerships, increased building and infrastructure efficiencies, expanded use of renewable energy sources and other measures, Pitt will build on the success of its ambitious Sustainability Plan and existing greenhouse gas emissions reduction of 22 pct between 2008 and 2017. Key initiatives to achieve this goal include:

Building Efficiency -- With 130 buildings, including 14 projects certified under U.S. Green Building Council standards, Pitt will continue pursuing its 50 pct reduction in energy use by 2030 in existing facilities. For new construction, the goal is an 80 pct reduction by 2030 in support of the 2037 neutrality goal.

Renewable Energy -- The University has committed to purchase at least 50 pct of campus electricity from renewable sources by 2030, including from a low-impact hydroelectric power plant in the Allegheny River that will come online by 2023.

Infrastructure Efficiency -- In 2009, Pitt built one of the most efficient steam plants in the nation which has helped reduce CO2 emissions to date. The University is also growing its current fleet of five zero emissions electric vehicles. Efficiencies in purchasing supply chains, materials diversion, greater utilization of active and shared transportation modes and offsets will also help Pitt to become carbon neutral.

Leadership and Collaboration -- Students, faculty and staff have embraced Pitt's commitment to sustainability and continue to develop new initiatives, many with funding support.

The University's pledge exceeds the carbon reduction targets of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Pittsburgh. Pitt's progress toward carbon neutrality will be shared via a newly created online "sustainability dashboard" updated by the University Office of Sustainability. (Source: University of Pittsburgh, PR 28 Feb., 2020) Contact: University of Pittsburgh, Office of Sustainability, Dr. Aurora Sharrard, Dir., (412) 624-5122, asharrard@pitt.edu, sustainability@pitt.edu, www.sustainable.pitt.edu

Acciona
Date: 2020-03-02
Madrid-headquartered engineering group ACCIONA Energia reports it will increase its wind energy capacity from the present 10.1 GW currently installed to 15 GW in the next five years, at a rate of 1 GW net per year.

At the end of 2019, Acciona had a portfolio of green power generation facilities of 10,117 MW installed -- 56 pct in Spain and 44 pct in international markets -- 13 GW of renewable energy between consolidated and semi-consolidated, 835 MW under construction., according the company release. (Source: Acciona, PR, Mar., 2020) Contact: Acciona SA, +34 91 663 28 50, +34 91 663 28 51 - fax, www.acciona.com

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

MHI Vestas
Date: 2020-02-28
MHI Vestas and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) are reporting financial closure on the Changfang and Xidao offshore wind projects totaling 589 MW in Taiwan.

The two projects will incorporate 62 units of Vesta's flagship V174-9.5 MW wind turbines. Changfang Phase 1 will comprise 10 wind turbines for an installed capacity of 95 MW and will be installed in 2022. Changfang Phase 2, comprising 47 wind turbines with an installed capacity of 446.5 MW, and Xidao, comprising 5 wind turbines with an installed capacity of 47.5 MW, will be installed in 2023.t

MHI Vestas Offshore Wind is a 50-50 joint venture between Vestas Wind Systems A/S and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI). The company designs, manufactures, installs and services wind turbines for the offshore wind sector. (Source: MHI Vestsa. PR, reve, 25 Feb., 2020) Contact: MHI Vestas, Philippe Kavafyan, CEO, +45 97 30 00 00, vestas@vestas.com, www.vestas.com; Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Kristina Negendahl Jessen, +45 70 70 51 51, cip@cip.dk, www.cip.dk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Taiwan Wind,  Offshore Wind,  Wind Turbine,  MHI Vestas,  Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP),  

Mexican Wind Energy Association
Date: 2020-02-28
According to the Mexican Wind Energy Association (AMDEE), the wind Mexican wind power sector expects to invest roughly $1.3 billion in the development of 11 projects totaling roughly 1,200 MW of wind power in 2020.

More than 1,279 MW were developed incorporated into the installed capacity, so a total of in 2019, bring the country's total wind capacity to 6,237 MW. (Source: Mexican Wind Energy Association, PR, reve, 25 Feb., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Mexican Wind Energy Association,  Wind,  Mexico Wind ,  

Xcel Energy,ONE Future
Date: 2020-02-28
Minneapolis-headquartered Xcel Energy is reporting its largest single-year drop in emissions in 2019, cutting carbon by 5.6 million tons -- more than 10 pct reduction in one year.

Since 2005, Xcel has reduced carbon emissions by 44 pct due in part to the completion of three significant wind projects in 2018 and 2019, including Rush Creek in Colorado, and Hale and Bonita in Texas. Other factors include flexible coal plant operations, strong performance from the company's nuclear fleet and low natural gas prices, which allowed Xcel Energy to continue reducing coal generation, according to the release.

Xcel Energy notes it has joined ONE Future -- a consortium of natural gas companies working to voluntarily reduce methane emissions below 1 pct by 2025 -- and has pledged to keep its own methane emissions to less than .2 pct in its natural gas operations. The company has also invested more than $1 billion to improve its natural gas pipelines and tighten its system. The company also participates in EPA's voluntary Natural Gas STAR and its Methane Challenge program. (Source: Xcel Energy, PR, Bus.Wire, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: Xcel Energy, Media, (612) 215-5300, www.xcelenergy.com; ONE Future, www.onefuture.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Methane,  Xcel Energy,  Carbon Emissions,  

Naturgy Energy
Date: 2020-02-28
Madrid-based Naturgy Energy Group SA reports its 24-MW Parque Eolico Frescano wind farm in the aautonomous community of Aragon, Spain is now fully operational.

The € 25 million ($27.1 million), 7-turbine installation is expected to generate sufficient electric power for 30,000 homes and avoid around 63,157 tpy of pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions.

Overall, the autonomous community has 3,033 MW of wind and 980 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) parks in operation, and a project pipeline of 5,400 MW. (Source: Naturgy, Renewables, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: Naturgy Energy Group, www.naturgy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Naturgy Energy ,  Wind,  

Southwestern Electric Power, Oklahoma. Public Service Co
Date: 2020-02-28
The Public Service Co. is reporting the Oklahoma Corporation Commission has given the nod for its acquisition of a 45.5 pct, 675-MW share of Southwestern Electric Power Co's (SWEPCO) proposed 1,485-MW wind farm project covering seven counties in north-central Oklahoma.

Shreveport, Louisiana-based Southwestern Electric Power Co will own the remaining lion's share of the project which includes three wind farms in Alfalfa, Blaine, Custer, Kingfisher, Garfield, Major and Woods counties in the Oklahoma panhandle region. (Source: Oklahoma. Public Service Co, Lexington Herald-Leader, AP, 23 Feb., 2020)Contact: Oklahoma. Public Service Co., 888-216-3523, www.psoklahoma.com; Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority, 405-340-5047, www.ompa.com; Southwestern Electric Power, www.swepco.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Southwestern Electric Power,  Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority,  Wind,  

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

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

LED lighting overhaul in a range of buildings

Lab ventilation optimization and retro-commissioning of HVAC energy systems

Power plant compressed air system optimization

Integration of 10 additional energy-intensive

buildings into the university's energy management platform

Ongoing smart metering, meter replacement and maintenance, and

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

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

Light Bulb Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-02-28
"The Trump Administration's obsession with dismantling common sense standards that save consumers money and help the environment is breathtaking. The only people who benefit from this dim-witted plan are those profiting from inefficient energy use." -- Xavier Becerra, California Attorney General, www.oag.ca.gov

To refresh your memory, on Dec 11, 2019, we quotes "The Donald" as saying -- "It (standard light bulb) gives you an orange look, I don't want an orange look. Being a vain person, that's really important to me." -- Trump commenting on his administration's move to kill the Obama administration's light bulb energy efficiency standards.

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency,  Light Bulb Efficiency,  Trump,  

Energy Efficiency
Date: 2020-02-28
The Scottish Government is reporting approval of regulations governing the energy efficiency and setting energy efficiency standards for the Scottish Private Rented Sector properties. Approximately 68,000 properties will come under the legislation.

From 1 October 2020 all new residential rentals will be required to have a minimum EPC rating of E and as of the 1 April 2022 all new rentals s must have a minimum EPC rating of D. The regulations will be enforced by local authorities. . (Source: ARLA/Property Mark, 26 Feb., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Energy Efficiency ,  

energyOrbit,Wabash Valley Power Alliance
Date: 2020-02-28
In Indianapolis, the Wabash Valley Power Alliance (WVPA) reports it has adopted the San Francisco-based energyOrbit Marketplace portal to encourage and streamline energy efficiency for its 23 partner utilities serving 311,000 residential members.

The energyOrbit Marketplace, housed and powered on the Salesforce cloud platform, simplifies the application process for energy efficiency incentive offerings from utilities into a single platform, making it accessible on-demand to any customer in any utility territory or on a statewide basis. energyOrbit Marketplace also enhances customer engagement opportunities through simplified collaboration in the EE ecosystem. Specifically, WVPA will use energyOrbit Marketplace to provide self-service functionality to its distribution members for its Power Moves program, a portfolio of rebates and EE incentives for WVPA membership area residents.

As of 2018, energyOrbit has helped utilities and third-party implementers collectively manage more than 15.2 TWh of electricity savings. Additionally, 9.5 GW of peak demand has been reduced by efficiency measures tracked by energyOrbit, and more than $2.6 billion in incentive dollars were managed and prepared for payment, according to energyOrbit. (Source: Wabash Valley Power Alliance. PR, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: energyOrbit, Lance Maxwell, Director of Strategic Accounts, North America, www.energy-orbit.com; energyOrbit Marketplace portal www.energy-orbit.com/marketplace.php; Wabash Valley Power Alliance, Laura Matney, Energy Efficiency & Marketing Manager, 317-481-2800, 317-243-6416 – fax, info@wvpa.com, www.wvpa.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News energyOrbit,  Energy Efficiency,  

Charlotte,Duke Energy
Date: 2020-02-28
In North Carolina, the city of Charlotte City Council reports it will participate in the construction of a 35-MW solar farm expected to generate sufficient power for 10,000 homes in Iredell County. The project, which will be developed and constructed by Carolina Solar Energy and Ecoplexus, is expected to be operating by 2022.

With 860,000 +- residents, Charlotte will be the most populous U.S. city to obtain renewable energy through a utility "green tariff" such as Duke's Green Source Advantage program that lets large customers negotiate directly with solar developers.

Under the program, customers enter into trilateral agreements among the customer, the solar developer and Duke. Duke buys the solar energy generated by the projects and credits the customer's account. The customer keeps renewable energy certificates that prove that a percentage of its energy use is from a renewable source. (Source: City of Charlotte, Tribune News Serv. 27 Feb.,2020) Contact: City of Charlotte, Heather Bolick, Energy and Sustainability Coordinator, www.charlottenc.gov; Duke Energy North Carolina, Stephen De May, Pres., www.duke-energy.com

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

U.S. Green Building Council
Date: 2020-02-28
In the Sunshine State, the city of Tampa (pop. 400,000 +-) reports it has been selected by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for its 2020 LEED for Cities and Communities Grant Program aimed at accelerating progress on resiliency, social equity and climate change planning.

The program provides climate change and resiliency educational resources, data, performance bench marks and establishes a peer network for increased communications and idea sharing. More than 100 cities and communities worldwide have already participated in the program. (Source: City of Tampa, FLAPOL, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: US Green Building Council. LEED for Cities and Communities Program, www.usgbc.org/leed/rating-systems/leed-for-cities, Mahesh Ramanujam, Pres., CEO, (202) 552-1500, www.usgbc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News U.S. Green Building Council,  Climate Change,  Energy Efficiency,  

RGGI, Pa DEP
Date: 2020-02-28
Following up on our 4 Oct., 2019 coverage, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Patrick McDonnell has defended Gov. Tom Wolf's (D) executive order directing the agency to develop rules for joining RGGI, a cap and trade regional program that charges power producers for the pollution they emit.

McDonnell's comments came in response to concerns from the House Appropriations Committee over how the state's share of the RGGI programs quarterly auction program would be used by the state, relative to climate change issues rather than unrelated programs and projects.

Sec. McDonnell assured the Appropriations Committee "improvements to public transportation, installing energy efficient windows, insulation, or appliances, or building out alternative fuel vehicle infrastructure" were among the projects the RGGI funds would be applied to.

Governor Wolf's executive order follows the implementation of aggressive clean energy targets announced last year, including a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 26 percent by 2025. Pennsylvania also became the 24th state to join the U.S. Climate Alliance -- a group formed in 2017 after President Donald Trump withdrew the nation from the Paris Agreement.

Critics of RGGI argue it will cripple Pennsylvania's economy, force fossil fuel plants into early retirement and drive up electricity prices. Critics note that Pennsylvania is the nation's number two natural gas producer and the region's top power exporter -- making it very different, economically, from the other RGGI participants. (Source: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, The Center Square, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, www.dep.pa.gov; C RGGI, www.rggi.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RGGI,  Carbon Emissions,  ,  

California-Quebec Cap-and-Trade
Date: 2020-02-28
The Western Climate Initiative (WCI) is reporting the results of February's joint California-Quebec auction.

The auction raised roughly $600 million for the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, which California will use for programs that further reduce climate and local air pollution and advance environmental equity.

Quebec raised over $240 million (Cdn) ($185 million) to support climate action in the province.

Western Climate Initiative Inc is a non-profit corporation formed to provide administrative and technical services to support the implementation of state and provincial greenhouse gas emissions trading programs. (Source: Western Climate Initiative, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: Western Climate Initiative, www.wci-inc.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Western Climate Initiative,  Cap-and-Trade,  

Renewable Fuel
Date: 2020-02-28
Reuters is reporting U.S. renewable fuel prices were up by 25 pct the week following a Bloomberg reports that the Trump administration has decided to cut back on "hardship waiver" exemptions for oil refineries from the renewable fuel standard biofuel blending laws.

Following the Bloomberg report, renewable fuel credits for 2019 traded at 35 cents each , up 7 cents while credits for 2020 traded at 40 cents each.

As previously noted, "hardship waivers" were intended for refineries producing 75,000 bpd or less and suffered "disproportionate economic hardship" from the costs of RFS compliance. The waiver frees the refineries from an obligation to provide the EPA with biofuels credits proving compliance. Under the now vanquished administrator Greg Pruitt's direction, the EPA handed out 54 exemptions over two years and not a single request for an exemption was denied.Under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard, the nation's oil refineries are required to blend billions of gallons of biofuels such as ethanol into the fuel or buy credits from those that do. But the EPA can waive their obligations if they prove compliance would cause them financial distress.

(Source: Various Media, Successful Farming, Reuters, 26 Feb., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuel Standard,  RFS,  "Hardship" Waiver,  

BP
Date: 2020-02-28
Petroleum industry giant BP reports it is dropping its affiliation with three industry trade association on the grounds that the associations' climate change related policies and positions do not align with BP's.

BP is dropping the Western Energy Alliance because its interests did not aligned on federal regulation of methane in the US, and the Western States Petroleum Association and American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers over carbon pricing positions.

As previously reported on 14 Feb., BP plans to:

Achieve a 50 pct cut in the carbon intensity of its products by 2050 or sooner

Install methane measurement at all BP major oil and gas processing sites by 2023 and reduce methane intensity of operations by 50 pct.

Increase its investment in non-oil and gas businesses over time.

More actively advocate for policies that support net-zero, including carbon pricing -- carbon tax.

Further incentivise the company's workforce to deliver aims and mobilize them to advocate for net- zero and set new expectations for relationships with trade associations.

Aim for recognition as a leader for transparency of reporting, including supporting the recommendations of the TCFD, and launch a new team to help countries, cities and large companies decarbonize.

BP's current worldwide greenhouse gas emissions from its operations stand at 55 million tpy of CO2 equivalent (MteCO2e), and the carbon in the oil and gas that it produces is equivalent currently to around 360 MteCO2e emissions a year -- both on an absolute basis. Taken together, delivery of these aims would equate to a reduction in emissions to net zero from what is currently around 415 MteCO2e a year, according to the BP release. (Source: BP Website, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: BP Press Office, +44 (0) 20 7496 4076, bppress@bp.com, www.bp.com

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

Sodra,Emmelev
Date: 2020-02-28
Vaxjo, Sweden-based forest products and lumber producer cooperative SODRA is reporting construction of the world's first commercial-scale biomethanol -- a sustainable fuel from forest biomass -- plant at its pulp mill in Monsteras. The plant's first delivery will go to Emmelev A/S, a customer that will be using biomethanol in its biodiesel production.

Biomethanol is produced from the crude methanol recovered from the manufacturing process at Sodra's pulp mills. It is part of the circular process in which all parts of forest products are used for the best possible effect.

Emmelev A/S is a Danish family-owned agricultural company that has developed large-scale biodiesel production from local canola, but uses fossil methanol as a raw material in production. (Source: Sodra, Website, PR, 20 Feb., 2020) Contact: Sodra, Henrik Brodin, Strategic Business Development Manager, +46 (0)470-856 24, henrik.brodin@sodra.com, www.sodra.com; Emmelev A/S, Morten Simonsen, www.emmelev.dk

More Low-Carbon Energy News Woody Biomass,  Forest Biomass,  Sodra,  Emmelev,  Biomethanol,  Biodiesel,  

US Grains Council,Nebraska Ethanol Board
Date: 2020-02-28
The Washington-based US Grains Council (USGC) is reporting the Nebraska Ethanol Board has become its newest member.

The Nebraska Ethanol Board serves and advocates for the state's 25 ethanol plants with a combined total capacity of over 2.5 billion gpy of ethanol.

In addition to building consumer support for biofuels and guiding public policy, the Nebraska Ethanol Board helps market growth through targeted strategies and programmes. (Source: USGC, 26 Feb., 2020) Contact: Nebraska Ethanol Board, Roger Berry, (402) 471-2941, www.ethanol.nebraska.gov; U.S. Grains Council, Tom Sleight, Pres., (202) 789-0789, (202) 898-0522, www.grains.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News US Grains Council,  Nebraska Ethanol Board,  

Darling Ingredients ,Diamond Green Diesel
Date: 2020-02-28
In the Lone Star State, Irving-based Darling Ingredients Inc. is reporting its joint venture with Valero Energy Corporation -- Diamond Green Diesel (DGD) has entered into a long-term lease agreement allowing DGD use of the St. Rose IMTT Terminal as a logistics hub for DGD's expanding renewable diesel facility in Norco, LA.

Under the agreement, IMTT will construct two pipelines connecting the terminal with the DGD Norco, LA renewable diesel facility, as well as re-purpose approximately 790,000 barrels of storage capacity from petroleum storage to renewable diesel feedstock and finished product prior to the end of 2021 -- coinciding with the anticipated startup of DGD's current 400-million gpy expansion project. (Source: Darling Ingredients, PR, 25 Feb., 2020) Contact: Darling Ingedients, Melissa A. Gaither, VP IR , (972) 281-4478, mgaither@darlingii.com, www.darlingii.com;Diamond Green Diesel, sales@diamondgreendiesel.com, www.diamondgreendiesel.com; Valero Renewable Fuels, Joe Gorder, Pres., (800) 324-8464, www.valero.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Darling Ingredients ,  Diamond Green Diesel,  

Gevo
Date: 2020-02-28
Englewood, Colorado-based biobutanol producer GEVO Inc. reports receipt of part of The Queensland Waste to Biofutures (W2B) Fund to support the development of waste to biofutures projects in Queensland, Australia.

The W2B fund provides targeted funding for pilot, demonstration or commercially scalable biorefinery projects in Queensland that use conventional waste streams or biomass to produce bioenergy, biofuels and high-value bioproducts.

For this project, Gevo is evaluating the most likely 2G biomass to carbohydrate conversion process to use in conjunction with its proven carbohydrate to low carbon biofuel process. (Source: GEVO Website, PR, 27 Feb.,2020) Contact: GEVO, Patrick Gruber, CEO, 303-858-8358, pgruber@gevo.com, www.gevo.com; Queensland Waste to Biofutures Fund, www.qtic.grantguru.com.au/grant/queensland-waste-to-biofutures-fund-w2b-fund-/

More Low-Carbon Energy News GEVO,  Biobutanol,  Biomass,  Biofuel Feedstock,