Updates: Clean Energy

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The week ending May 17, 2025

 

United States: Policy Shifts and Grid Resilience

Congressional Proposals to Reduce Clean Energy Incentives

Republican lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives have introduced legislation aiming to significantly cut tax credits for clean energy established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The proposed rollback targets key incentives, including phasing out electric vehicle credits after 2026 and ending clean energy support by 2031. This move could jeopardize over $522 billion in clean tech investment and potentially cause a 70% decrease in clean energy deployment by 2035, along with higher electricity prices.

Trump Administration Targets Renewable Energy Policies

The Trump administration is working to reverse Biden-era climate policies, specifically targeting the rescission of a 2024 rule that reduced fees by 80% for wind and solar projects on federal lands. Additionally, a new policy has been introduced to halve the review time for oil and gas project approvals on federal lands. Environmental groups have criticized these policy shifts for prioritizing corporate interests over environmental and public health concerns.

Renewable Energy Supports Texas Grid Amid Heatwave

As Houston experiences record-breaking early summer heat, renewable energy—particularly solar and wind—is playing a pivotal role in maintaining electricity supply without overburdening the grid. Despite peak demand of over 78,000 megawatts, the ERCOT grid remained stable, thanks in large part to renewables, which delivered nearly half of the energy at peak times. However, the Texas State Senate recently passed a bill requiring all solar and wind farms to have backup power, which critics argue will force premature retirement of renewable capacity and unfairly disadvantage the industry while exempting fossil fuel plants.

Global Developments: Expansion and Innovation

United Kingdom Establishes Publicly Owned Energy Company

The UK Parliament has passed the Great British Energy Act 2025, establishing Great British Energy (GBE), a publicly owned energy company. GBE is tasked with accelerating the development of clean, domestically produced energy in the UK and supporting the nation’s net-zero commitments. The company has the authority to invest in, develop, and own energy generation infrastructure, and to enter partnerships with private firms, local authorities, and international investors.

Germany Proposes Grid Fee Overhaul to Support Renewables

Germany’s network regulator has launched a formal review of its electricity grid fee structure to better align with the nation’s transition to renewable energy. Proposed reforms include requiring renewable energy producers to share grid costs, implementing flat fees or surcharges based on connection size, and introducing dynamic pricing to reflect real-time network congestion. The agency is also considering tailored rules to better incorporate battery storage systems into the grid.

India Advances Renewable Energy Projects

In Andhra Pradesh, HRD and IT Minister Nara Lokesh laid the foundation stone for a ₹22,000 crore integrated clean energy project by ReNew in Bethapalli village. The project is expected to generate employment for around 10,000 people and is part of the state’s aim to achieve 72 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2029. Additionally, Telangana’s Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed the energy department to develop a comprehensive three-year electricity plan emphasizing renewable energy, in alignment with the state’s ‘Clean and Green Energy Policy.

South Africa Launches Renewable Energy Trading Platform

Ampli Energy, a joint venture between Discovery Green and Sasol, has launched a renewable energy trading platform in South Africa. The platform uses a wheeling process to deliver green energy to consumers and offers businesses power on a month-to-month basis, with cashback incentives for switching to renewable energy. At launch, Ampli Energy had over 450 MWh per annum of renewable energy generation capacity.

Is Florida really developing into a solar energy superpower? Really?

The general health interests of citizens are worth more than the commercial interests of advertisers, the court said.

Pittsburgh Airport is turning a landfill into a solar powerhouse

The week ending May 10, 2025

Five things we’ve learned about new community energy models - Power to ...

 

U.S. Community Solar & Policy Updates

Microsoft Partners with Nexamp on 300 MW Community Solar Portfolio

Microsoft has entered into a long-term agreement with Nexamp to develop 100 community solar projects across the U.S., totaling 300 MWac. These projects aim to provide renewable energy to local communities and support Microsoft’s 2030 carbon-negative commitment.

New Jersey Expands Community Solar Program by 250 MW

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities announced an additional 250 MW capacity for its Community Solar Energy Program. This expansion offers opportunities for property owners to host solar installations, with applications opening on April 30.

North Carolina’s Solar for All Advisory Board Meeting Scheduled

The North Carolina Solar for All (EnergizeNC) Community Advisory Board will meet on May 14 to discuss program design aspects, including workforce development and consumer protection. The program aims to expand access to solar energy in low-income communities.

Global Community Energy Developments

Latin America’s Community Energy Initiatives Empower Indigenous Communities

In Latin America, small-scale community energy projects are replacing diesel generators with clean electricity in remote areas. These initiatives empower Indigenous communities to manage their energy resources, promoting a just transition.

Policy & Regulatory Landscape

Texas Legislation Could Impact Renewable Energy Projects

Proposed bills in Texas (House Bill 3356 and Senate Bill 715) would require renewable energy projects to provide backup power through natural gas or batteries. Non-compliance could lead to fines or shutdowns, potentially affecting thousands of megawatts of renewable capacity.

Project Highlights

Illinois Approves $25 Million Solar Project Near Winchester

Scott County commissioners approved permits for a 20 MW solar project near Winchester, Illinois. The project, led by Koller Solar LLC and Birch Creek Development, is expected to power approximately 4,000 homes upon completion in 2027.

The week ending May 3, 2025

Global Energy Policy & Infrastructure

U.S. Federal Budget Cuts Target Clean Energy

President Trump’s proposed 2026 budget includes substantial cuts to renewable energy programs, electric vehicle infrastructure, and climate initiatives. Notably, it proposes eliminating over $15 billion in funding for renewable energy and carbon capture projects, as well as $6 billion allocated for EV charging infrastructure from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency faces a nearly 55% budget reduction, impacting environmental justice initiatives and climate research.

Europe’s Renewable Energy Challenges

Europe is grappling with reduced hydroelectric output due to a milder winter and declining snowpack, leading to a 40% drop in hydro production compared to the previous year. This shortfall, combined with decreased wind energy generation, has prompted increased reliance on gas and coal-fired power plants, raising concerns about meeting climate goals.

Regional Highlights

 Brazil Leverages Clean Energy for AI Development

Brazil is positioning itself as a hub for AI development by capitalizing on its clean energy infrastructure, with nearly 90% of its electricity derived from renewable sources. This sustainable energy supply is attracting major tech companies seeking to power energy-intensive AI data centers. The government’s $4 billion AI plan includes initiatives to expand renewable energy capacity to support this growth.

Australia’s Renewable Energy Expansion and Challenges

In Queensland, the construction of the Wandoan South Solar 2 facility has commenced, expected to generate approximately 700 GWh annually and power around 120,000 households by mid-2027. However, the Queensland government has introduced legislation imposing stricter planning regulations on renewable energy projects, particularly wind farms, while exempting infrastructure for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics from many planning laws.

Offshore Wind Developments

U.S. Offshore Wind Projects Face Uncertainty

The Empire Wind 2 project in New York has faced economic setbacks, leading to the cancellation of its power purchase agreement due to rising inflation and supply chain issues. Additionally, President Trump’s executive order halting new offshore wind leasing and permitting has introduced further uncertainty for projects like Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind South in New Jersey, especially after Shell’s withdrawal from the joint venture.

Market Trends

Decline in Clean Energy Investments

In the first quarter of 2025, the U.S. saw the abandonment of 16 clean energy projects, totaling $8 billion in investments. This figure triples the combined cancellations from 2022 to 2024, indicating growing challenges in the clean energy sector.

Energy Storage and Hydrogen Initiatives

Michigan’s Solar Energy Advancement

DTE Energy has completed the construction of the 80 MW Pine River Solar Park in Michigan, enhancing the state’s renewable energy capacity and contributing to its clean energy goals.

Linde’s Investment in Blue Hydrogen

Linde has reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy by planning up to $5.5 billion in capital expenditures for 2025, focusing on blue hydrogen projects. This investment aims to support the transition to low-carbon energy solutions

The week ending April 25, 2025

China Surpasses Fossil Fuel Capacity with Renewables

For the first time, China’s combined wind and solar power capacity reached 1,482 gigawatts by the end of March 2025, exceeding its fossil fuel-based thermal power capacity. This marks a significant milestone in China’s rapid renewable energy expansion.

Australia’s Rooftop Solar Output Soars

Australia experienced a 20% surge in rooftop solar energy output over the summer months, producing 10,592 GWh compared to 8,852 GWh the previous year. This increase is attributed to new solar panel installations and favorable weather conditions.

U.S. Clean Energy Landscape

Renewable Energy Outpaces Coal

In 2024, wind and solar energy in the U.S. surpassed coal for electricity generation, with renewables now supplying nearly 25% of total electricity. Battery storage capacity also saw a fivefold increase between 2021 and 2024, enhancing grid stability.

Federal Policy Shifts Impact Projects

The U.S. Department of the Interior resumed reviews for solar and geothermal projects on federal lands after a 60-day suspension. However, wind energy projects remain on hold pending policy review, creating uncertainty for developers.

International Initiatives

UK Invests in Offshore Wind

The UK government announced a £300 million ($400 million) investment to bolster its offshore wind industry, aiming to produce all electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This move is part of the UK’s strategy to enhance energy security and independence.

Switzerland Launches Solar Railway

Switzerland unveiled the world’s first operational solar-powered railway project, integrating solar panels directly into train infrastructure to generate clean energy for transportation.

Industry Trends

Business Leaders Support Renewable Shift

A recent poll indicates that 97% of mid-market and large company leaders support moving away from coal and other fossil fuels, with nearly 78% backing a transition to a renewables-based electricity system by 2035 or sooner.

The week ending April 18, 2025

Record-Breaking Growth in Renewable Capacity

In 2024, global renewable power capacity expanded by 585 GW, accounting for over 90% of total power expansion. This surge was largely driven by solar energy, marking a 15.1% annual growth rate.

Geopolitical Tensions Impacting Clean Energy

The U.S. administration’s recent tariffs, particularly targeting China, have raised concerns about increased costs for clean energy technologies and potential delays in project development. Experts warn that these trade tensions could hinder global climate efforts. ​

United States: Offshore Wind Projects Progressing

Google’s Geothermal Initiative in Taiwan

Google has signed its first geothermal energy purchase agreement in Asia, aiming to add 10 MW of carbon-free energy to Taiwan’s grid by 2029. This move aligns with Google’s goal to operate entirely on carbon-free energy by 2030. ​

Europe: Emissions Rise Amid Decline in Clean Energy Output

Europe’s power sector emitted approximately 390 million metric tons of CO₂ in Q1 2025, the highest since early 2023. This increase is attributed to reduced output from wind and hydropower sources, leading to greater reliance on coal and natural gas. ​

Clean Industrial Deal Launched

The European Commission introduced the Clean Industrial Deal, aiming to add 100 GW of renewables annually until 2030 and increase circular material use to 24% by the same year. The initiative seeks to enhance competitiveness amid high energy prices and the climate crisis. ​

China: Potential Peak in CO₂ Emissions

A survey indicates that 44% of climate experts believe China’s CO₂ emissions have already peaked or will do so by 2025. This optimism stems from China’s significant investments in renewable energy and a shift away from coal. ​

Innovation & Investment

Harnessing Data Center Waste Heat

In the UK, initiatives are underway to utilize waste heat from data centers to warm homes via heat networks. Currently, only 2% of UK homes are connected to such networks, compared to 70% in Denmark. Expanding these networks could attract £100 billion in investment by 2050.

Crux Secures $50 Million for Clean Energy Financing

Crux, a clean energy financing platform, raised $50 million in a Series B funding round to accelerate clean energy and manufacturing projects. ​

The week ending April 11, 2025

Major Renewable Energy Projects and Corporate Initiatives

  • BOC Transitions to Solar Power in Australia: Industrial gas company BOC, owned by Linde, has entered a 10-year agreement with Zen Energy and Acen Australia to source 45% of its electricity from the New England solar farm in New South Wales. This move is expected to reduce BOC’s Australian emissions by 40% by 2035, reflecting a broader trend of industrial companies shifting towards renewable energy sources.
  • Vesper Energy Launches 600 MW Solar Park: Vesper Energy celebrated the full commercial operation of its flagship Hornet Solar project, a 600 MWac solar park, marking a significant addition to the renewable energy capacity.
  • Equinor Forms Integrated Power Unit: Norwegian energy company Equinor has established a new business unit combining its renewables, gas-to-power, and energy storage assets. This initiative aims to meet the growing electricity demand driven by AI, data centers, and the global green energy transition.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Developments

Policy and Economic Factors Impacting Clean Energy

  • Concerns Over U.S. Tariffs Affecting Global Climate Efforts: Experts warn that aggressive trade tariffs imposed by the U.S. may hinder global climate initiatives by triggering economic downturns, reducing funding for green energy projects, and making fossil fuels more economically attractive due to falling prices.
  • WindEurope 2025 Highlights Tax Challenges: The WindEurope 2025 report emphasizes that high taxes and levies are undermining electrification efforts, recommending the reduction of regulated charges on electricity to promote renewable energy adoption.

Global Renewable Energy Trends

  • Record Share of Clean Energy in Global Electricity: In 2024, clean energy sources provided more than 40% of global electricity, a record high, with solar energy accounting for 7% of the total, driven by rapid growth in the sector.
  • Decarbonization Enhances Energy Security: Research indicates that decarbonization efforts improve energy security for most countries by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and increasing reliance on critical minerals for clean energy technologies.

Wind industry launches ‘Copenhagen Call to Action’: 3 steps to boost Europe’s energy independence and competitiveness

The wind industry gathers in Copenhagen as Europe faces unprecedented competitiveness and security challenges. As a homegrown and affordable source of energy, wind is uniquely placed to help strengthen Europe’s energy security and competitiveness. But the build-out of wind is too slow today. The wind industry’s ‘Copenhagen Call for Action’ highlights 3 steps to boost Europe’s energy independence and competitiveness.

Amid unprecedented economic insecurity, the EU’s new Clean Industrial Deal puts electrification and the accelerated build-out of renewables at the heart of Europe’s industrial strategy.

The week ending April 4, 2025

Oil Execs Warn Privately That Trump’s ‘Chaos’ Could Be ‘Disaster’ for Their Industry

After donating heavily to Trump’s reelection, Big Oil is just catching on that the president’s policies can hurt them too, anonymous survey of industry executives reveals.

U.S. Department of Energy Allocates $27 Million for Community Clean Energy Planning 

The U.S. Department of Energy announced $27 million in funding aimed at empowering state, local, and tribal governments to develop and implement innovative clean energy programs. This initiative, known as the Energy Future Grants, provides both financial support and technical expertise to 31 local governments, seven states, and two tribal communities. The grants are intended to foster collaborations with community organizations, non-profits, academic institutions, and small businesses to advance sustainable energy solutions.

Expansion of Rampion Offshore Wind Farm Approved in the UK

The UK government approved the expansion of the Rampion offshore wind farm off the Sussex coast. The project, named Rampion 2, will add 90 new turbines, generating an additional 1.2 gigawatts of clean energy—enough to power approximately one million homes. Construction is expected to commence next year, creating around 4,000 jobs during development. This expansion significantly contributes to the government’s clean energy targets and aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

South Burnett Regional Council Approves Battery Energy Storage System

In Queensland, Australia, the South Burnett Regional Council approved the construction of a battery energy storage system at Alice Creek. Despite concerns from local residents about potential environmental impacts, the council proceeded with the approval, emphasizing compliance with planning conditions. The project will include 472 battery modules and 118 inverters, aiming to enhance energy storage capabilities in the region.

Australian Farmers Oppose Renewable Energy Zones Project

Farmers in central Victoria expressed opposition to the state government’s Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) project, designating over 600,000 hectares as “no-go zones.” They criticized the public consultation process, citing concerns about land devaluation, environmental harm, and disruption to rural life. The Victorian Government maintains that REZs are essential for transitioning to sustainable energy and plans to release a draft transmission plan for further consultation.

Power to Hydrogen Secures Strategic Investment

Power to Hydrogen, a company specializing in clean energy solutions, announced the closure of a Series A funding round exceeding $20 million. The investment, led by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Karpowership, aims to scale the manufacturing of Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyzers. These electrolyzers are designed to produce sustainable maritime fuels, contributing to cleaner energy alternatives in the shipping industry.

Avangrid’s True North Solar Farm Achieves Commercial Operation

Avangrid, Inc., a prominent energy company, announced that its True North Solar project has commenced commercial operations. As Avangrid’s largest solar project to date, the 238 Megawatt-AC (MWac) facility is delivering electricity to the Texas grid, supporting operations such as Meta’s upcoming data center in Temple, Texas. The project underscores Texas’s leadership in American energy production and highlights the role of large-scale solar initiatives in meeting growing energy demands.

Scanifly and Pegasus Integrate Drone-Based PV Design with Racking Layouts

Scanifly, a leader in photovoltaic (PV) design and field operations software, announced an integration with Pegasus, a California-based innovator in rooftop mounting systems. This collaboration streamlines the transfer of Scanifly’s drone-based design data directly into the Pegasus Design Tool, eliminating redundant work and accelerating the installation process for solar panels. The integration aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs in solar energy deployment.

The week ending March 28, 2025

Policy and Legislative Actions:

  • Australia’s Clean Energy Investment: The Australian Labor government committed $5 billion to support its clean energy and green metals industries. This includes $2 billion for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and $3 billion aimed at developing a green metals industry, focusing on metals produced using renewable energy. The initiative seeks to generate 82% of Australia’s electricity from renewables by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. citeturn0news14
  • Texas Residential Solar Protections: Senator Judith Zaffirini introduced SB2224 in the Texas Senate, aiming to protect homeowners from unscrupulous sellers and substandard installations of residential solar power systems. The bill mandates inspections before grid connection and outlines remedies for failed inspections, including payment deferrals and potential system removal with refunds.
  • International Challenges:
  • India’s Renewable Energy Costs: Changes to land registration laws in Rajasthan, India’s leading solar state, are expected to increase costs and delay renewable energy projects. Companies must now pay stamp duty for land sales or leases, leading to an estimated 8%-10% rise in land expenses, which constitute nearly 20% of overall project costs.
  • Australia’s Green Hydrogen Projects: Despite significant investments, many green hydrogen projects in Australia have been shelved or face uncertainty. For instance, Origin Energy and the Queensland government withdrew financial support for proposed hydrogen hubs and production facilities. Nonetheless, the Albanese government continues to back green hydrogen, recently announcing $814 million for a project in Western Australia.

The week Ending March 22, 2025

Policy and Regulatory Changes:

  • Poland Eases Onshore Wind Farm Restrictions: The Polish government approved draft legislation to relax construction rules for onshore wind farms. The new regulations reduce the distance requirements between wind projects and residential areas, aiming to boost renewable energy production. This move could enable the installation of approximately 41 gigawatts of onshore wind capacity by 2040, up from nearly 11 gigawatts currently.

Government Investments:

  • UK Invests £200 Million in Solar Panels for Public Institutions: The UK government announced a £200 million investment to fund solar panel installations in schools and hospitals. This initiative, led by the state-owned GB Energy, aims to reduce energy costs and promote renewable energy adoption in public institutions across England.

Corporate Initiatives:

  • Adani Energy Solutions Secures $325 Million Transmission Project: India’s Adani Energy Solutions won a 28 billion rupee ($325 million) contract to develop a power transmission system in Gujarat. This project aims to support a green hydrogen and ammonia manufacturing unit in Mundra and aligns with India’s goal to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
  • TRENDE Receives $7.2 Million for Renewable Energy Initiatives: Japanese renewable energy provider TRENDE Inc secured approximately $7.2 million in funding to expand its solar and battery leasing service, “Teraris,” and to further develop its peer-to-peer energy trading platform.

Technological Advancements:

  • Launch of Plug-and-Play Wind and Solar Systems: Affordable Wind Turbines introduced American-made, all-in-one plug-and-play systems that combine wind and solar energy solutions. These kits aim to make renewable energy more accessible for homes and businesses by simplifying the installation process.

Market Trends:

  • Digital Power Utilities Market Growth: A report highlighted that the global digital power utility market is projected to grow from $111 billion in 2025 to $230 billion by 2029. This growth reflects increasing investments in digital technologies within the energy sector, involving major companies like Microsoft, Siemens, General Electric, Accenture, and IBM.

 

Severn Estuary Tidal Energy Initiative

The Severn Estuary Commission has emphasized the urgent need to harness tidal energy from the Severn estuary to meet increasing electricity demand and reduce carbon emissions. Experts recommend smaller lagoon projects over larger barrages due to environmental concerns. A proposed lagoon could potentially contribute up to 7% of the UK’s electricity, leveraging the estuary’s 8-12 gigawatt tidal range potential. This initiative could add £12 billion in gross value and create approximately 220,000 construction jobs.

Tarong West Wind Farm Committee Appointment

The Tarong West wind farm project in Queensland, Australia, led by RES in partnership with Stanwell Corporation, has established a new committee to engage stakeholders during its development and construction phases. Approved by the Queensland government in 2024 and supported by a $776.1 million investment from the state’s Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund, the wind farm is set on a 19,000-hectare site in Ironpot, primarily consisting of cleared farmland. Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025, with completion expected in early 2027.

Mission Clean Energy and Ørsted Partnership

Mission Clean Energy announced a strategic investment from Ørsted, a global leader in clean energy. This partnership aims to advance the development of utility-scale solar and battery energy storage projects across the United States, marking a significant milestone in Mission’s efforts to expand renewable energy infrastructure.

Abastible and Zelestra’s Renewable Energy Agreement in Chile

Abastible has signed a long-term renewable energy power purchase agreement with Zelestra in Chile. The tailor-made energy solution includes 220 MWdc of solar photovoltaic capacity and approximately 1 GWh of battery energy storage. The project, located in Tarapacá, Chile, has already commenced construction and aims to provide nighttime power to Abastible, enhancing its service offerings to customers.

Westinghouse and Shawflex Collaboration

Westinghouse Electric Company and Shawflex have signed a memorandum of understanding to support nuclear new-build projects in Canada and globally. Under this agreement, Shawflex may provide cables, connectors, and assemblies for key projects, including the AP1000®, AP300™, and eVinci™ reactors, aiming to bolster the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.

AFC Energy’s Portable Hydrogen Cracker

AFC Energy has launched Hy-5, the world’s first portable hydrogen cracking module capable of producing up to 500 kg of hydrogen per day at a cost of £10 per kilogram. This innovation represents a significant advancement in hydrogen production technology, offering a more flexible and cost-effective solution for clean energy applications.

Dimension Energy’s Expanded Solar Portfolio

Dimension Energy has increased its corporate credit facility to $300 million to support a 3.5 GW community solar development pipeline. The company expects to have 800 MW of photovoltaic projects in pre-construction or operational stages by the end of 2025, underscoring its commitment to expanding community solar initiatives across the United States.

Review of EPA Rules Is ‘Critical Step’ Toward More Reliable Grid, NRECA Says

NRECA CEO Jim Matheson applauded a series of actions the Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday that would alleviate reliability and cost challenges for electric co-ops.

Co-ops Restore Power After Severe Weekend Storms

Electric co-ops in parts of the Midwest and South were rapidly restoring power early this week after violent tornadoes, fierce winds and torrential rainstorms tore through the regions over the weekend, causing more than 120,000 outages in co-op territory

 

International Collaborations and Investments

  • Masdar’s Investment in Spanish Solar Projects: Masdar, a renewable energy company based in Abu Dhabi, is negotiating a $200 million deal with Spanish utility Endesa to acquire a 49.9% stake in a 450-megawatt solar portfolio. This move aligns with Masdar’s strategy to expand its renewable energy footprint in Europe, aiming for a global capacity of 100 gigawatts by 2030.
  • IFC and IDB Invest’s Solar Initiative in Haiti: The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and IDB Invest have partnered to expand solar energy solutions in Haiti, aiming to enhance access to clean and reliable electricity in the region.

Advancements in Renewable Energy Projects

  • Deriva Energy’s Wildflower Solar Facility: Deriva Energy announced that its 100-megawatt Wildflower Solar Facility in DeSoto County, Mississippi, is now operational, contributing to the region’s clean energy infrastructure.
  • SoCalGas’s Renewable Natural Gas Contract: Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) executed a contract with Organic Energy Solutions to procure renewable natural gas derived from organic waste, marking its first agreement under California’s Senate Bill 1440, which sets specific RNG procurement targets for natural gas utilities.

Policy and Industry Developments

  • Co-Location Energy Act: The newly introduced Co-Location Energy Act permits wind and solar projects to be co-located on existing energy infrastructure sites, facilitating the expansion of renewable energy by allowing developers to utilize land currently occupied by traditional energy operations
  • First Hydrogen’s Launch of First Nuclear: First Hydrogen Corp. announced the launch of its subsidiary, First Nuclear Corp., dedicated to advancing clean energy through the innovative use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), aiming to diversify clean energy sources.

 

UK-China Climate Collaboration

Ed Miliband, the UK’s Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, announced the establishment of an annual UK-China climate dialogue during his visit to Beijing. This initiative aims to address energy market reform, carbon capture and storage, and domestic climate goals, marking a renewed effort in bilateral climate engagement.

Debate Over UK’s Zonal Energy Pricing

A proposed regional electricity pricing plan in the UK suggests that households in London and the southeast could pay more to subsidize lower prices in Scotland. Critics argue this approach could complicate investments in new wind farms and create regional disparities, while supporters believe it could enhance system efficiency and reduce bills.

Advocacy for Tidal Energy in the Severn Estuary

The Severn Estuary Commission has recommended immediate action to develop the world’s first tidal energy lagoon in the Severn Estuary. With an estimated cost ranging from £2 billion to £40 billion, the project aims to harness the estuary’s significant tidal range to boost renewable energy production and economic growth.

Caution Against Resuming Russian Gas Imports

Maxim Timchenko, CEO of Ukraine’s largest private energy company DTEK, cautioned European politicians about the hidden costs of resuming Russian pipelined gas imports. He emphasized that apparent price benefits could come with significant geopolitical trade-offs, advocating instead for investment in Ukraine’s renewable energy potential.

Expansion of Twin Creek Wind Farm in Australia

RES Australia has proposed modifications to the Twin Creek Wind Farm, reducing the number of turbines from 51 to 42 while increasing their height to 220 meters. This change aims to boost the farm’s power capacity from 185MW to 270MW, though concerns have been raised about visual impacts and effects on local wildlife.

Significant Investments in Clean Energy at SEforALL Forum

The Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Global Forum secured over $900 million in commitments to advance energy access and clean energy investments worldwide, reflecting a strong global push towards sustainable energy solutions.

Launch of Solar and Battery Projects in Southern California

Clean Power Alliance, in collaboration with EDF Renewables and AES, has operationalized projects delivering 600 MW of solar power and 390 MW of battery storage. These initiatives now supply clean energy to approximately 270,000 homes annually in Southern California, creating an estimated 950 construction jobs.

Collapse of BayWa’s Renewable Energy Unit Deal

German agricultural trading group BayWa announced it would retain majority ownership of its renewable energy unit, BayWa r.e., after an initial agreement with Energy Infrastructure Partners fell through.

Mote Hydrogen’s Funding for Carbon-Negative Technology

Mote Hydrogen has raised $7 million to scale its carbon-negative biomass-to-hydrogen technology, aiming to advance sustainable hydrogen production methods.

FERC’s Approval of Southeastern Energy Market

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission reaffirmed its approval of the Southeastern Energy Exchange Market (SEEM), dismissing concerns that the market unfairly limits access and underscoring its potential to enhance energy trading efficiency in the region.