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Exploring Renewable Energy Projects On Royal Land

Prince of Wales Explores Renewable Energy Projects on Duchy of Cornwall Estate

The Prince of Wales is actively exploring opportunities to develop renewable energy and storage projects across the expansive Duchy of Cornwall estate. This initiative could transform over 52,000 hectares of private land, predominantly located in the southwest of England, into hubs for solar, onshore wind, and other renewable energy infrastructures as part of the estate’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2032.

A Kensington Palace spokesperson shared with reNEWS: “Achieving a balance between financial results, protecting the natural environment, and supporting our communities has always been at the heart of the Duchy. We continue to investigate opportunities for the generation and storage of renewable energy across the estate.”

According to a report in The Observer, the Prince of Wales, who serves as the steward of the duchy in his role as the 25th Duke of Cornwall, has commissioned a comprehensive review of renewable energy options on the estate. This review includes potential for large-scale solar farms, geothermal projects, and onshore wind turbines. The findings of this study are expected to be reviewed by the Prince later this year, with officials eager to explore support for wind turbines—a notable shift from King Charles’ earlier stance against onshore wind during his tenure as Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall.

Despite the potential for significant renewable energy developments, it is unlikely that the entire duchy land will be opened to developers. Any new proposals will need to carefully consider landscape and visual impacts due to the estate’s location in some of the most picturesque parts of the southwest.

Alastair Martin, Secretary and Keeper of the Records at the Duchy of Cornwall, emphasized at a recent press briefing: “The issue with the Duchy of Cornwall estate is that it happens to be in some of the most beautiful parts of the southwest of England particularly, and there are always aesthetic considerations. And I’m sure those are not going to go away because we’ve got a new Duke.”

This proactive move by the Prince of Wales underscores a strong commitment to sustainability and the future of renewable energy, balancing ecological integrity with community support and financial viability.

#RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #PrinceofWales #DuchyofCornwall #NetZero #SolarPower #WindEnergy #Geothermal #CleanEnergy #EcoFriendly #GreenFuture

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Indian Firm Unveils Ambitious 250MW Solar Project In Uzbekistan

Jakson Green Powers Up with 250MW Solar Project in Uzbekistan

Indian energy transition platform Jakson Green has secured a significant credit facility to construct a 250MW solar power plant in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. This ambitious project is a major step towards enhancing sustainable energy infrastructure in the region.

The INR 2.96 billion (€0.03 billion) facility from First Abu Dhabi Bank (Mumbai) will also fund a 63MW integrated battery energy storage system, ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply.

Chandan Goswami, Chief Financial Officer of Jakson Green, expressed his enthusiasm: “The support extended by First Abu Dhabi Bank empowers us to engage with diverse markets and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable growth. This project in Uzbekistan exemplifies Jakson Green’s dedication to delivering excellence in utility-scale renewable energy projects, both domestically and internationally. It highlights our commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and fostering global partnerships in the renewable energy sector.”

Nishad Kulkarni, Executive Director of First Abu Dhabi Bank India, echoed these sentiments: “We are pleased to support Jakson Green’s international expansion plans in the renewable space. This project aligns perfectly with our commitment to financing sustainable solutions and driving the transition towards a greener future. We are confident that Jakson Green’s expertise and experience will ensure the success of this landmark project globally.”

This partnership not only signifies a leap forward for renewable energy in Uzbekistan but also underscores Jakson Green’s pivotal role in the global transition to sustainable energy.

#SolarEnergy #RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #Uzbekistan #JaksonGreen #CleanEnergy #BatteryStorage #GreenFuture #GlobalPartnerships #EnergyTransition

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Nala Secures Impressive 34MW Solar Power Portfolio In The Baltic Region

Powering a Greener Future: Nala Renewables and Green Genius Join Forces in Lithuania

Renewable energy pioneer Green Genius has entered into a dynamic partnership with Nala Renewables (Nala), culminating in an agreement to transfer a 34MW solar portfolio in Lithuania to Nala.

But that’s just the beginning. In an exciting move, Nala has also signed an agreement with Green Genius to acquire an additional 45MW of PV projects in the near future, bringing the total Lithuanian portfolio to a remarkable 79MW.

This full portfolio is set to generate approximately 96,000MW hours of clean energy annually, meeting the energy needs of around 9,500 households and slashing CO2 emissions by approximately 20,000 tonnes each year. With secure offtake agreements in place, Nala ensures revenue stability over the medium term.

Will Herlinger, Director of Nala Renewables, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re delighted to have expanded into Lithuania via the acquisition of this operational PV portfolio from Green Genius, a well-established counterparty for Nala. We see the Baltics as a key strategic region for our business and plan to continue to grow our presence there.”

Green Genius’ Chief Financial Officer, Rokas Bancevičius, shared his excitement as well: “We are thrilled that Nala Renewables has chosen projects developed and built by Green Genius as their entry point to Lithuania. This acknowledges the high quality of renewable energy projects our team delivers. We thank Nala’s team for their trust and professionalism.”

Adding to the positive sentiments, Tadas Balsys, Head of M&A at Green Genius, said, “This transaction with Nala Renewables marks an exciting milestone not only for Green Genius but also for Lithuania and the Baltics region. We are proud to contribute to the growth of the Baltics’ renewable sector by delivering additional PV capacity and attracting a new institutional investor.”

Together, these companies are making significant strides in renewable energy, ensuring a greener, more sustainable future for Lithuania and the Baltic region.

#RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #GreenEnergy #Lithuania #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #Baltics #GreenGenius #NalaRenewables #SolarExpansion #EcoFriendly #CO2Reduction #EnergyTransition

 

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UK Greenlights Trio Of Solar Farms To Power Up 1.3GW Of Clean Energy

UK Greenlights 1350MW Solar Projects in a Major Renewable Energy Push

In a significant move for renewable energy in the UK, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has awarded planning permission for a trio of solar projects, totaling 1350MW, across England. This landmark decision sees Development Consent Order permits issued for PS Renewables and Tribus Clean Energy’s 500MW Sunnica, Windel Energy and Canadian Solar’s 350MW Mallard Pass, and Low Carbon’s 500MW Gate Burton.

A New Era for Solar Energy

Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, expressed his enthusiasm for the approval, especially noting the swift action taken by the new Secretary of State in his first week in office following the UK general election. “This is just the kind of clear leadership that will increase investor confidence and show that Britain is serious about tackling the climate emergency with the urgency that is needed,” Hewett remarked.

Overcoming Delays

The decision on Sunnica had faced several delays, initially scheduled for last September but postponed multiple times by former Conservative Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho, who also delayed decisions on Mallard Pass. The prompt action by the new government is a welcome change, according to Pinsent Masons partner Gareth Phillips, who highlighted the importance of clearing the backlog of infrastructure planning applications.

Investor Confidence Restored

Mike Rutgers, Managing Director of UK Development at Low Carbon, emphasized the importance of timely decision-making for the success of clean energy infrastructure. “After months of political indecision on key projects, this provides a clear signal to investors and the supply chain that the government is serious about giving priority to energy projects in the planning system,” he said.

Pinsent Masons partner Richard Griffiths added, “These decisions send a clear signal of intent to the market that the UK is open to investment for major new renewables projects. The solar industry has been awaiting these decisions for quite a while. Now they have arrived, they will have a bearing on the projects that follow.”

A Bright Future Ahead

This decisive move by the UK government marks a new chapter for the solar energy sector, showcasing a commitment to tackling climate change and encouraging substantial investment in renewable energy projects. With these approvals, the UK is poised to make significant strides towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Stay tuned as these projects progress and continue to shape the renewable energy landscape in the UK.

#RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #UKGreenEnergy #ClimateAction #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #SolarProjects #UKGovernment #EnergyTransition

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Unsplash/Andres Siimon]

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Breakthrough For Renewables! Iberdrola Pilot Optimizes Battery Storage

Iberdrola and Multiverse Computing Launch Groundbreaking Battery Optimisation Pilot in Northern Spain

In an exciting collaboration, Iberdrola and Multiverse Computing have successfully delivered a pioneering pilot project in northern Spain aimed at optimizing the installation of grid-scale batteries. This initiative marks a significant leap forward in ensuring grid stability as renewable energy sources continue to proliferate.

Harnessing the Power of Quantum Computing

As the energy landscape evolves with the integration of renewable generation, electric vehicles, heat pumps, and other distributed energy resources, battery storage has become crucial for maintaining grid stability. Multiverse Computing’s cutting-edge solution leverages quantum and quantum-inspired algorithms to determine the optimal number, type, and locations of batteries within the grid network. This innovative approach not only reduces costs but also enhances network performance.

Pilot Project Highlights

Overseen by i-DE, Iberdrola’s distribution company in Spain, the pilot project focused on the electricity grid in Guipuzkoa, a region in the Basque Country. During the ten-month trial, quantum and quantum-inspired algorithms consistently matched or outperformed classical benchmarks, maximizing grid reliability and voltage control.

A Hub of Innovation

This project is part of Iberdrola’s Global Smart Grids Innovation Hub and the Gipuzkoa Quantum Program. The collaboration showcases how advanced technology can drive significant improvements in grid management and energy distribution.

Key Insights from Industry Leaders

“With the power of quantum computing, private and public institutions can meet sustainability goals while saving on both fixed and variable costs,” said Enrique Lizaso Olmos, CEO of Multiverse Computing. “We are proud to support the development of more reliable and economical green energy in Spain alongside a world-leading clean energy provider like Iberdrola.”

Estibaliz Goni, Process and Technology Director at i-DE, expressed optimism about the project’s future potential: “The results of this pilot project are encouraging, and we will continue exploring the deployment of this technology. There are many challenges to overcome to ensure we have the smart and robust grids required to deliver the energy transition, and innovations like this will help us get there.”

The Future of Smart Grids

The successful implementation of this pilot project signals a promising future for smart grids and renewable energy in Spain. By harnessing the capabilities of quantum computing, Iberdrola and Multiverse Computing are setting a new standard for efficiency and sustainability in the energy sector.

Stay tuned as Iberdrola and Multiverse Computing continue to lead the charge in the energy transition, paving the way for a greener and more resilient future.

#Iberdrola #MultiverseComputing #QuantumComputing #SmartGrids #RenewableEnergy #EnergyTransition #BatteryStorage #GreenEnergy #Sustainability #Innovation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit:[Image: Adobestock]

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The Future Of Fuel? Essar Unveils Groundbreaking 125MW Hydrogen Plant

Essar Energy Transition Launches Groundbreaking 125MW Hydrogen Power Plant at Stanlow Refinery

Essar Energy Transition (EET) is setting a new standard in the energy sector with the launch of EET Hydrogen Power, Europe’s first hydrogen-ready combined heat and power plant. This innovative project, located at EET’s Stanlow refinery, is slated for completion in 2027 and represents a major leap towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Revolutionizing Energy Production

EET Hydrogen Power is not just another power plant; it’s a game-changer. With a capacity of 125MW of power and the ability to produce 6000 tonnes of steam per day, this plant will replace Stanlow’s existing boiler units, which currently generate approximately 50MW of power. The introduction of hydrogen to replace hydrocarbons will result in a staggering reduction of 740,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, marking a significant step in EET’s journey to becoming the lowest carbon process refinery globally.

Pioneering Low Carbon Hydrogen Production

This ambitious project will be developed in two phases and aims to support EET Fuels’ goal of becoming the world’s lowest carbon refinery by 2030, with a target to cut total emissions by 95%. EET Hydrogen Power will operate as an independent vertical within EET, positioning itself as a leader in low-carbon hydrogen production in the UK.

Supporting Regional Decarbonization and Employment

The benefits of EET Hydrogen Power extend beyond the refinery. By providing low-carbon power to other industrial users in the region, the plant will support their decarbonization targets and contribute to the wider HyNet industrial cluster’s goals. This project is more than just an investment in green energy; it’s an investment in the future of the North West, supporting and growing high-skilled employment in the region.

A Blueprint for Future Decarbonization

EET Hydrogen Power is a key infrastructure project, not only for EET but for the entire energy transition landscape. It forms a blueprint for future industrial and power decarbonization efforts. As part of EET’s $3 billion energy transition initiatives in the North West of England, this hydrogen-ready power plant is a testament to EET’s commitment to putting the UK at the forefront of low-carbon energy innovation.

Leadership in Action

“Launching EET Hydrogen Power shows the progress that Essar Energy Transition is making in delivering against its commitment to put the UK at the forefront of low-carbon energy,” said Tony Fountain, EET Managing Partner. “This project brings our commitment to life and demonstrates our intention to globally showcase the pathway to decarbonizing vital high-emitting industries.”

Rob Wallace, Chief Executive of EET Hydrogen Power, added, “We have bold ambitions for Stanlow to become a low-carbon transition hub at the center of the HyNet Industrial Cluster. EET Hydrogen Power will be Europe’s first 100% hydrogen-ready gas-turbine plant, supplied with EET Hydrogen’s low-carbon hydrogen. This project will create significant benefits by contributing to regional emissions reduction targets.”

Stay tuned as EET Hydrogen Power leads the charge in transforming the energy landscape and setting new benchmarks for sustainability and innovation.

#EET #HydrogenPower #EnergyTransition #LowCarbonFuture #SustainableEnergy #StanlowRefinery #HyNet #Decarbonization #GreenEnergy #UKEnergyInnovation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Essar Energy Transition]

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Swiss Life Plugs Into The Future With Acquisition Of Power-To-X Player

Swiss Life Asset Managers Acquires Vergia: Pioneering the Green Energy Transition in Norway

Exciting developments are unfolding in the world of green energy! Investment funds managed by Swiss Life Asset Managers have acquired Norwegian green energy transition platform Vergia from Arendals Fossekompani. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in the journey toward a sustainable future.

Fueling Growth and Innovation

The investment funds will provide essential financing to Vergia, fueling its growth and enabling the realization of key projects. One of the standout initiatives is a flagship green ammonia project in Arendal, Norway. This groundbreaking project will see the development and construction of a green ammonia plant and bunkering facility at the Eydehavn port, setting a new standard for sustainable energy solutions.

Vergia: A Visionary Platform

Established in 2022 and headquartered in Norway, Vergia is at the forefront of the energy transition sphere. By combining in-house expertise with strategic partnerships, Vergia focuses on developing infrastructure projects in alternative verticals, particularly Power-to-X and offshore wind. These initiatives are crucial in addressing Europe’s increasing need for renewable fuels to drive the energy transition.

Green Ammonia: The Future of Shipping Fuel

Swiss Life Asset Managers highlight the promise of green ammonia as a revolutionary fuel type poised to replace fossil fuels in the shipping industry. Emission-free and produced from water, air, and renewable energy, green ammonia offers a sustainable alternative that aligns perfectly with global decarbonization goals.

Strategic Insights from Swiss Life Asset Managers

“The acquisition of Vergia marks the first step in establishing a platform focusing on Power-to-X for our managed funds,” said Marc Schürch, Head of Renewable Energy at Swiss Life Asset Managers. He emphasized that Europe’s target to become climate neutral by 2050 can only be achieved through the decarbonization of all main forms of energy: electricity, heating, and fuels.

Norway: A Prime Location for Green Energy

Schürch further highlighted Norway’s strategic importance in the green energy landscape, noting its attractive locations and the experienced management team at Vergia. With a robust project pipeline and strong partnerships, the acquisition of Vergia provides an excellent foundation for building a successful platform dedicated to decarbonizing various sectors.

A Step Towards a Greener Future

This acquisition not only strengthens Swiss Life Asset Managers’ portfolio but also aligns with their ESG ambitions. By investing in innovative projects like the green ammonia plant, they are making significant contributions to the global effort to combat climate change.

Stay tuned as Vergia embarks on this exciting journey, driving forward the green energy transition and setting new benchmarks in sustainability.

#GreenEnergy #SustainableFuture #SwissLifeAssetManagers #Vergia #GreenAmmonia #RenewableEnergy #PowerToX #EnergyTransition #ClimateNeutral2050 #Norway #ESG

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit:  [Image: Vergia]

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Luminus Charges Up With Plans For Massive Belgian Battery

Belgium’s Luminus Unveils Ambitious 100MW Battery Project in Ghent

Exciting news is coming out of Ghent! Belgian energy producer Luminus is taking a major step towards a sustainable future with their latest venture: a 100MW battery project at the Ringvaart power plant.

Powering Up with Innovation

Luminus has officially submitted a permit application for this groundbreaking storage park, which will seamlessly connect to the ELIA grid in the Ghent canal zone. This project is set to be a game-changer, addressing the ever-growing need for flexibility and stability in our electricity grid.

A Boost for the Community

Imagine a site with a 100MW capacity and an impressive storage capacity of 400MWh—enough to cover the daily consumption of 42,000 families! This ambitious project aims to be up and running by the end of 2026, bringing significant benefits to the community and beyond.

Leading the Renewable Energy Charge

“As number one in wind energy on the mainland and hydropower in Belgium, we are fully committed to renewable energy,” says Luminus CEO Grégoire Dallemagne. With battery projects like the ones in Ringvaart and Lixhe in Wallonia, Luminus is paving the way for greater grid flexibility and the continued growth of renewable energy sources.

A Sustainable Shift

Interestingly, the 400MWh battery project at Ringvaart will replace Luminus’ previous plan to install two to six open-cycle gas turbines at the same location. This shift underscores their dedication to sustainable energy solutions. Rest assured, the existing power plant will remain operational, ensuring no disruption to current energy supplies.

Stay tuned as this exciting project progresses and join us in celebrating another step towards a greener, more sustainable future!

#Luminus #RenewableEnergy #BatteryStorage #Sustainability #GreenEnergy #Ghent #EnergyInnovation

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Luminus]

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Siemens Energy Makes Major Move

Siemens Energy to Hire Over 10,000 Employees in Major Grid Expansion

In a bold move to expand its electricity grid business, Siemens Energy has announced plans to hire more than 10,000 new employees. This initiative is part of a €1.2 billion, six-year growth plan aimed at bolstering the company’s Grid Technologies division, its largest revenue driver.

 A Strategic Response to Industry Challenges

As reported by the Financial Times, this ambitious expansion plan is expected to help Siemens Energy navigate the challenges faced by its wind turbine subsidiary, Siemens Gamesa. The Grid Technologies division, which already stands as the world’s second-largest manufacturer of electricity transmission equipment, is set to increase its workforce by two-thirds by 2030. The €1.2 billion capital expenditure will be allocated towards new factories and enhanced manufacturing capacities across the US, Europe, and Asia.

 Meeting Surging Demand

Tim Holt, head of the Grid Technologies division, emphasized the growing need for robust grid infrastructure. “Surging demand for electricity, a wave of renewable projects requiring better grid connections, and widespread ageing infrastructure are driving the need for advanced grid equipment,” Holt explained. This surge in demand is a clear indicator of the global shift towards renewable energy and the necessity for upgraded electricity transmission systems to handle the increasing loads.

 Global Expansion and Job Creation

Siemens Energy’s expansion is set to unfold rapidly, with the majority of the growth materializing within the next two years. Of the new jobs, 40% will be based in Europe, 20% in the US, 20% in India, and the remaining 20% spread across the rest of Asia and Latin America. This global distribution of new positions underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening its presence and capabilities worldwide.

 Impressive Order Growth

The Grid Technologies division has seen remarkable growth in recent years. From 2021 to 2023, orders doubled from €7 billion to €15 billion, with €12 billion in orders recorded in just the first half of this year. This impressive performance highlights the increasing demand for Siemens Energy’s grid solutions and the company’s ability to meet these needs effectively.

 Looking Ahead

Siemens Energy’s strategic expansion not only aims to address current industry challenges but also positions the company for long-term success in the evolving energy landscape. By investing in new infrastructure and significantly expanding its workforce, Siemens Energy is poised to play a crucial role in the global transition to sustainable energy. #SiemensEnergy #GridExpansion #RenewableEnergy #SustainableFuture #EnergyInfrastructure #GlobalGrowth #JobCreation #ElectricityGrid #EnergyTransition #CleanEnergy #TechnologyInnovation #IndustryLeadership #TimHolt

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Siemens Energy]

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Wind Power Gets An Upgrade: ABO Wind Evolves Into ABO Energy

ABO Wind Becomes ABO Energy: A New Chapter in Renewable Energy

German renewable energy developer ABO Wind has officially transitioned from a stock corporation (AG) to a partnership limited by shares (KGaA), changing its name to ABO Energy GmbH & Co KGaA. This pivotal move marks the beginning of a new era for the company, reflecting its expanded focus and international ambitions.

 A Strategic Transformation

The change was solidified with the new company’s entry into the commercial register of the Wiesbaden District Court. The transition, overwhelmingly approved by 87% of shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting in October 2023, underscores a strategic shift aimed at preserving the influence of founders Jochen Ahn and Matthias Bockholt on future company decisions and corporate culture, especially amid anticipated capital increases.

 Embracing a Broader Vision

ABO Wind has long outgrown its original name. The rebranding to ABO Energy more accurately represents the company’s diverse expertise across four key technologies of the energy transition: wind, solar, storage, and hydrogen. This name change mirrors the company’s broadened vision and international reach, aligning with its growing pipeline of projects.

 Overcoming Challenges

The path to transformation wasn’t without hurdles. Despite the overwhelming shareholder support in October 2023, legal challenges delayed the implementation of the new structure. The April 2024 General Meeting was still held under the name ABO Wind AG. However, with all necessary documents submitted, the Wiesbaden District Court has now formalized the change, allowing ABO Energy to step confidently into its future.

 Looking Forward

Founding director Jochen Ahn expressed enthusiasm about the transition: “We are very pleased that we can now begin a new chapter in our company history as ABO Energy KGaA.” With a robust pipeline of 23GW across various technologies and an additional 20GW dedicated to hydrogen projects, Ahn remains optimistic about the future.

“Our business model and values remain steadfast,” Ahn continued. “As ABO Energy, we aim to build upon and expand the many good partnerships we’ve cultivated over the past 28 years. Transparency towards our shareholders is crucial, and we strive to make our company even more attractive on the capital market. Our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) will undoubtedly support this endeavor.”

 A Bright Future Ahead

The rebranding to ABO Energy signifies more than a name change; it’s a commitment to a more sustainable future. By leveraging its extensive experience and expanding its technological portfolio, ABO Energy is poised to play a pivotal role in the global energy transition. This transformation highlights the company’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and growth, setting the stage for continued success in the renewable energy sector. #ABOEnergy #RenewableEnergy #EnergyTransition #WindEnergy #SolarPower #EnergyStorage #HydrogenPower #Sustainability #CorporateGovernance #CleanEnergy #EnvironmentalCommitment #EnergyInnovation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: ABO Energy]