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The week ending April 4, 2025

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 beginning 03/18/25 – 03/22/25

03/21/25

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.

03/19/25

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

03/18/25

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.

03/17/25

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.

03/14/25

Italy’s Terna Announces €23 Billion Investment in Grid Modernization

Italy’s state-controlled power grid operator, Terna, unveiled plans to invest over €23 billion ($25 billion) over the next decade to upgrade its network and support the country’s energy transition. This investment represents a 10% increase compared to previous commitments and aims to modernize and digitize electricity grids, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources. Major projects, including the Tyrrhenian Link, Adriatic Link, and the Italy-Tunisia power line, are expected to be completed by 2030, enhancing capacity for energy exchange and contributing to significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions by 2040.

EU Commits €4.7 Billion to South Africa’s Green Hydrogen Development

The European Union announced a €4.7 billion investment package to support South Africa’s clean energy sector, with a significant focus on green hydrogen production. This initiative aims to bolster sustainable energy development and strengthen economic ties between the EU and South Africa, positioning the region as a key player in the global green hydrogen market.

SDG&E Expands Energy Storage to Enhance Grid Resiliency

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) received approval from the California Public Utilities Commission to expand its Westside Canal Battery Energy Storage facility in California’s Imperial Valley. The project will add 100 megawatts (MW) of energy storage capacity to the existing 131 MW facility, aiming to enhance grid resiliency and affordability for customers. The expansion is projected to be fully operational by June 2025, supporting the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.

Louis Dreyfus and Global Clean Energy Expand Camelina Cultivation

Louis Dreyfus Company and Global Clean Energy Holdings renewed their agreement to expand camelina cultivation in South America. Camelina is an oilseed crop used for producing renewable fuels, and this expansion aims to increase feedstock availability for sustainable energy production, contributing to the diversification of renewable energy sources.

Innovative Solutions for Multifamily Housing Clean Energy Adoption

Advancements in shared solar-plus-storage projects are creating new opportunities for low- to moderate-income communities and commercial tenants in multifamily housing. These initiatives aim to make clean energy more accessible and affordable, promoting equity in the transition to renewable energy systems.

03/13/25

U.S. Solar and Batteries Headed for Record Year

Solar panels and batteries will account for more than 80 percent of new power capacity installed in the U.S. this year, officials say. Both technologies are set for record growth, helping to hasten the decline of coal power.

Wind and Solar Surpass Coal in U.S. Energy Production

In 2024, wind and solar energy surpassed coal for the first time in the U.S., generating more electricity and accounting for 17% of the power mix compared to coal’s 15%, according to Ember. Solar energy saw significant growth, increasing by 27%, while wind energy grew by 7%. Despite a push for natural gas production by the Trump administration, solar and storage installations dominated new power generation with 50 gigawatts of new capacity. Wind and solar power have overtaken coal in 24 states, with notable advances in California and Texas, where solar and battery capacities saw substantial growth. The reduced cost of batteries is enabling better integration of solar energy into the grid. Natural gas still remains the largest electricity source at 43%. The offshore wind industry is projected to rebound in 2025, driven by lease auctions and significant contributions from China.

Almost 100 million people in Africa have gained access to electricity in recent years

Africa is traditionally viewed as an energy-deficient region. How close is this belief to reality? Which regions of the continent are most in need of energy infrastructure? Abel Didier Tella, Director General of the Association of Power Utilities of Africa (APUA), addressed these issues in an interview with the Global Energy Association

Rio Tinto’s Renewable Energy Investment in Queensland

Rio Tinto has committed to a significant renewable energy investment for its Gladstone aluminium operations by purchasing solar power and battery storage from two Edify Energy solar stations in Queensland. This 20-year agreement will supply 90% of the energy needs and is projected to reduce the Boyne smelter’s direct emissions by 70%, equating to 5.6 million tonnes of CO₂ annually. The projects will generate 600MW of solar power and provide 600MW/2,400MWh of battery storage, with construction starting in late 2025 and completion by 2028. Kellie Parker of Rio Tinto views this as a move towards affordable, reliable, low-carbon energy. Environmentalists, including Dr. Tessa Leach of ClimateWorks Centre and John Grimes of the Smart Energy Council, have praised this development as a major step forward, noting its potential to keep energy-intensive industries competitive and align with global demands for decarbonised metals.

China’s New Guidelines for Clean Energy Development Funds

The Ministry of Finance of China has published new guidelines for managing special funds dedicated to clean energy development. These guidelines will support the development of renewable energy and the clean utilization of fossil fuels from 2025 to 2029, with a possible extension beyond this period. They replace the provisional guidelines issued in 2020, which expired in 2024.

Demand Flexibility Trial in the UK

A £5.3 million UK government trial is exploring “demand flexibility,” which involves shifting energy consumption to times when it is cleaner and cheaper. Participants use the Energy Saver App to analyze energy use and receive personalized advice, saving around £200 annually. By shifting consumption, users can avoid the need for new gas power stations, potentially reducing household electricity costs by £375 a year. The trial includes 500 homes fitted with solar panels and batteries at no upfront cost, significantly lowering electricity bills. Future developments aim for automated energy management through AI, reducing consumer effort. Additionally, consumers can benefit from time-of-use tariffs and the National Energy System Operator’s demand flexibility service, which offers payments for reduced peak-time electricity use. Such initiatives help maintain a balanced grid and minimize reliance on gas power plants.

Debate Over Solar Farm Locations in the UK

The UK is experiencing debates over the placement of large-scale solar farms versus rooftop panels. While some advocate for utilizing rooftops and brownfield sites for solar installations, others support the development of utility-scale solar farms on greenfield sites to meet clean energy goals. Both approaches play different roles in achieving energy targets: rooftop solar saves individual energy bills, while large-scale farms supply cheaper electricity to the grid. Developers often prioritize locations with available grid connections, which are frequently on greenfield sites due to cost constraints. The government could promote rooftop solar further by adjusting planning rules. However, compensation for potential property value loss remains a contentious issue for affected residents.

UK Government Plans to Expedite Clean Power Projects

The UK government is planning significant changes to expedite clean power projects’ connection to the National Grid with a new “first ready, first connected” system, replacing the current “first come, first served” process. This is part of a broader Planning and Infrastructure Bill aimed at accelerating planning decisions for major infrastructure such as roads, wind farms, and railways. The legislation will also address local protests by formalizing compensation for residents near new energy infrastructures. The bill sets ambitious goals, including decarbonizing power supplies by 2030 and building 1.5 million new homes within the parliamentary term. Other measures include streamlining electric vehicle charging infrastructure installation, establishing a Nature Restoration Fund, and delegating planning decisions to enhance efficiency. Some experts are skeptical about the bill’s ability to significantly reduce project approval times, citing the complexity of the current pre-application period.

03/12/25

Major Corporations Endorse Expansion of Nuclear Energy

During the CERAWeek conference in Houston, prominent companies including Amazon and Google signed a pledge to support the goal of tripling global nuclear energy capacity by 2050. Facilitated by the World Nuclear Association, this initiative also garnered support from firms such as Occidental and IHI Corp. Nuclear energy currently contributes approximately 9% of the world’s electricity through 439 reactors. This commitment aims to bolster clean energy production and address climate change challenges.

EU Proposes Relaxed State Aid Rules to Boost Clean Technology

The European Union is seeking feedback from member countries on proposed regulations that would loosen state aid rules, enabling governments to provide financial support for clean technology projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions. These guidelines, expected to be adopted by June and valid until 2030, are designed to enhance the competitiveness of EU companies against U.S. and Chinese firms. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to support energy-intensive industries and attract private investments in green projects.

Advancements in Offshore Wind Energy Projects

Maryland Offshore Wind Project: This planned offshore wind farm, owned by US Wind, has received federal approval for its Construction and Operations Plan as of December 3, 2024. Located over 10 nautical miles off the coast of Ocean City, Maryland, the project is anticipated to have a capacity exceeding 2.2 GW, sufficient to power approximately 718,000 homes. The development is a significant step toward Maryland’s goal of achieving 50% renewable energy by 2030.
Eastern Green Links: The UK is progressing with two planned submarine high-voltage direct current power cables, known as Eastern Green Links, intended to strengthen the National Grid. These projects aim to deliver a combined 4 GW of renewable energy from Scottish wind farms to England. Ofgem has approved the schemes, marking them as one of the largest electricity transmission investments in recent British history.

India’s Record Expansion in Renewable Energy

India is set to add a record 35 GW of solar and wind energy to its grid by March 2025. This expansion is part of the country’s efforts to achieve its target of 500 GW of non-fossil power by 2030. Supported by a $386 billion financial commitment, major companies like Reliance Industries and Adani Green Energy have pledged significant renewable capacity expansions.

National Grid’s £35 Billion Upgrade Plan

National Grid has announced a £35 billion plan to upgrade electricity transmission cables in England and Wales to meet the government’s 2030 clean energy targets. This investment aims to enhance infrastructure and connect 35 GW of new generation capacity. However, the proposed upgrade could lead to increased network charges for consumers, potentially adding £21 to household bills over a 40-year period.

Phillips 66 and NextEra Energy’s Solar Initiative

Phillips 66 has partnered with NextEra Energy to power its Rodeo refinery in California with a new solar energy facility, which began operations in January 2025. The 30.2 MW solar plant, located on 88 acres adjacent to the San Francisco Bay Area, is expected to reduce the refinery’s grid power demand by half and cut carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 33,000 metric tons annually.

03/11/25

Australia’s Renewable Energy Targets

Shortfall in Green Energy Goals: Despite significant investments in renewable energy, Australia faces a projected 17% shortfall in meeting its green energy target by 2030. Factors contributing to this gap include infrastructure bottlenecks and extended supply wait times. Currently, renewables account for 46% of the electricity grid, necessitating a doubling to meet future targets. Experts suggest that maintaining coal-fired stations might be a pragmatic interim measure, though the government remains committed to a renewables-only strategy.

Solar Energy Developments in the UK

Debate Over Solar Farm Locations: In Lincolnshire, residents are expressing concerns over large-scale solar farms, such as the 2,800-acre Cottam project, encroaching on rural landscapes. While the government aims to source 95% of Britain’s power from clean energy by 2030, critics advocate for utilizing rooftops and brownfield sites for solar installations. Experts highlight the necessity of both rooftop and utility-scale solar installations, with the latter being more cost-effective and essential for widespread bill reduction.
Reforms to Grid Connection Processes: The UK government plans to expedite clean power projects’ connection to the National Grid by implementing a “first ready, first connected” system, replacing the current “first come, first served” process. This initiative is part of a broader Planning and Infrastructure Bill aimed at accelerating planning decisions for major infrastructures, including wind farms and railways. The legislation also addresses local protests by formalizing compensation for residents near new energy infrastructures.

Advancements in Sustainable Energy Research

Hydrogen Energy Innovations: Recent studies have reported substantial improvements in green hydrogen production methods, enabling higher efficiencies and durable use of untreated seawater. Additionally, a DVGW report suggests that gas pipeline infrastructures in Germany are suitable for repurposing to transport hydrogen, showing limited corrosion.
Wind Power Developments: The completion of the first functional 105-meter-tall modular wooden wind turbine has been reported, marking a significant advancement in sustainable materials for energy production.

03/10/25

Vietnam’s Renewable Energy Investment at Risk

More than two dozen investors, including Adani Green Energy, have raised concerns over Vietnam’s potential policy changes regarding subsidized prices for solar and wind energy. In a letter to Vietnamese leaders, they warned that retroactively altering feed-in tariffs could jeopardize over $13 billion in investments, undermine financial stability, and erode investor confidence at a critical time for the country’s renewable energy expansion. The policy change could lead to equity write-offs of almost 100% for affected projects, threatening the nation’s goal to expand its wind and solar capacity to 56 gigawatts by 2030.

UK Offers Energy Bill Discounts to Residents Near New Pylons

The UK government has announced plans to offer households living near new or upgraded power infrastructure a discount of £250 annually on their energy bills, amounting to up to £2,500 over ten years. This initiative aims to mitigate opposition to the expansion of energy infrastructure necessary for the transition to renewable energy and to achieve the government’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2030. Additionally, the government plans to streamline the planning application process by reducing the number of advisory bodies involved, focusing on heritage, safety, and environmental protection only. Community funds will be established to support local amenities in areas affected by the new infrastructure. The discounts are expected to take effect from 2026. 

Australian Green Energy Firm Faces Investigation

The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has been urged to investigate Diamond Energy, an energy firm endorsed by Greenpeace, for allegedly misleading conduct amounting to $133 million. The Carbon Reduction Institute (CRI) has raised concerns regarding Diamond Energy’s claims of being “beyond carbon neutral,” questioning the accuracy and justification of these assertions. The CRI’s audit suggests that Diamond Energy may not have retired enough large-scale generation certificates (LGCs) to support its environmental claims and that actual carbon reduction impacts may be overstated. Diamond Energy denied all allegations, citing regular independent audits supporting their claims. The Environmental Defenders Office, on behalf of CRI, has requested a formal ACCC investigation into these potential misrepresentations. The case highlights the importance of maintaining credibility in voluntary climate actions and ensuring that consumers can trust green energy providers’ claims.

Empire Wind Project Faces Economic Challenges

The Empire Wind project, a significant component of New York’s renewable energy strategy, is experiencing economic setbacks. While Empire Wind 1 is progressing as scheduled, Empire Wind 2 faced economic challenges, leading to the cancellation of its power purchase agreement. The cancellation was due to rising inflation, supply chain issues, and changing economic conditions that made the project financially unviable under the original terms. Equinor and BP mutually agreed with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to end the contract, highlighting concerns over profitability and regulatory uncertainty.

Maryland Offshore Wind Project Advances Amid Regulatory Changes

The Maryland Offshore Wind project, owned by US Wind, has completed all environmental reviews and permitting as of January 3, 2025, clearing a key regulatory hurdle. The project is anticipated to have a capacity upwards of 2.2 GW and generate power equivalent to the consumption of 718,000 houses from at most 114 wind turbine generators. However, on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order temporarily pausing the leasing and permitting for new projects on the Outer Continental Shelf and directing a review of the federal permitting practices for wind projects. The implications of this executive order for the Maryland project remain uncertain and could initiate a review of US Wind’s permits or postpone the development timeline.

03/07/25

Challenges and Opportunities in Renewable Energy Implementation in New South Wales (NSW), Australia

Local governments in NSW have raised concerns about the rapid rollout of renewable energy projects, highlighting issues related to planning, logistics, and economic outcomes. The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) has been described as problematic by the Mid-Western Regional Council’s general manager. Rapid development has led to increased housing costs, strained medical services, and displacement of local families in areas like Gulgong. Councils are advocating for better strategic planning, protection of agricultural land, and detailed impact assessments, noting that economic benefits are often limited and primarily favor foreign-owned developers. Conversely, some councils, such as Hay Shire, report positive engagement and support from residents, underscoring the need for thoughtful implementation and community collaboration. The NSW government promises economic opportunities and investment from developer contributions, though some remain skeptical.

Advancements in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Texas, USA

In Texas, homeowners are increasingly participating in virtual power plants (VPPs), integrating residential power sources to enhance grid stability. For instance, during a recent power outage, a homeowner’s residence remained powered due to batteries integrated with his rooftop solar system. These batteries, managed by Bandera Electric Cooperative through a subscription service, are part of a VPP network utilized to sell electricity across Texas. VPPs, integrating residential power sources, could play a key role in stabilizing Texas’ power grid amidst increasing demand. However, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) faces challenges in expanding this technology statewide. Despite initial skepticism, pilot programs have shown promise, with private companies and utilities advancing efforts to integrate and expand VPP technology. These initiatives aim to enhance grid resilience and offer economic benefits to consumers, though technological and regulatory barriers remain, necessitating continued innovation and collaboration to fully leverage these sustainable energy solutions.

Living Energy Farm’s Sustainable Model in Virginia, USA

Living Energy Farm (LEF), an intentional community in Virginia, continues to pioneer energy conservationist designs that allow members to live comfortably using renewable energy sources. LEF operates off-grid, utilizing a solar-powered direct current (DC) microgrid, biogas, and solar thermal features, avoiding reliance on grid electricity, generators, or fossil fuels. The community grows most of its food and supports itself financially by producing seeds for various seed companies. LEF’s mission is to demonstrate a sustainable lifestyle accessible to the majority, integrating technologies such as strawbale insulation, passive and active solar heating, and biogas production for cooking fuel and farm tractors. The community also launched Living Energy Lights in 2020, selling daylight drive appliances and battery systems.

Oxfordshire’s Low Carbon Hub in the United Kingdom

Since 2011, the Low Carbon Hub in Oxfordshire has grown from a small group into a substantial organization with 1,773 members and 55 renewable energy installations, including two hydroelectric dams on the River Thames. The hub focuses on building community-owned renewable energy projects, reinvesting profits into local improvements such as better insulation in public buildings. Notable projects include Osney Lock Hydro and Ray Valley Solar, which generates enough electricity to power 6,000 homes. Despite community interest in local energy, current policies only permit selling generated electricity to the National Grid. However, there is growing public support and potential policy changes with a government promoting community energy, promising significant investments that could transform the sector.

03/06/25

Australia

03/06/25 Approval of Three Wind Farms in New South Wales: Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has approved three wind farm projects in New South Wales: the Hills of Gold near Nundle, Spicers Creek northwest of Gulgong, and amendments to the Liverpool Range near Coolah. Despite facing environmental concerns and local opposition, these projects are expected to create approximately 1,340 construction jobs and 80 ongoing positions.

United States

03/06/25 Positive Outlook Amid Gas Plant Developments: Investors in U.S. clean energy remain optimistic despite a surge in natural gas plant projects. The increasing electricity demand, driven by sectors like AI, cloud computing, and electric vehicles, has led to a mix of renewable installations and traditional gas-fired power generation. Clean energy sources such as solar and wind continue to be competitive due to their low costs and faster deployment times.
03/06/25 Energy Storage Expansion: Canadian Solar’s e-STORAGE division has secured a contract to deliver 1.8 GWh of energy storage systems for Aypa Power in key U.S. markets. This initiative aims to enhance grid reliability and support the integration of renewable energy sources.

United Kingdom and Ireland

03/06/25 Offshore Wind Collaboration: The UK and Ireland have announced a partnership to improve subsea energy infrastructure, facilitating connections between offshore wind farms and onshore national energy networks. This agreement aims to streamline bureaucratic processes and capitalize on the energy potential of the Irish and Celtic seas.

India

03/06/25 Challenges in Renewable Energy Sector: India’s renewable energy industry is experiencing obstacles such as weak demand for tenders, delays in power sale agreements, and project cancellations. In 2024, 73 GW of renewable energy tenders were issued, but 8.5 GW remained unsubscribed due to complex bidding structures and transmission preparation delays. These challenges could impact India’s goal of achieving at least 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030.

Global Initiatives

03/06/25 IFC Investment in Türkiye: The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is investing in QNB Leasing to bolster energy transition and blue financing in Türkiye. This funding aims to support sustainable water resource use and promote growth and resilience for small and medium enterprises in the country.
03/06/25 AkzoNobel’s Clean Energy Transition in China: AkzoNobel has announced that more than half of its production sites in China are transitioning to clean energy sources. This move aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint.

03/05/25 China’s Ambitious Renewable Energy Projects

China announced a series of major renewable energy initiatives aimed at addressing climate change. These projects are part of the country’s strategy to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

03/05/25 EPA Unfreezes $7 Billion ‘Solar for All’ Grant Program

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has lifted the freeze on the $7 billion ‘Solar for All’ grant program, which had been under review. This initiative aims to expand access to affordable solar energy, particularly in underserved communities, aligning with broader efforts to promote renewable energy adoption.

03/05/25 Jefferies Power, Utilities, and Clean Energy Conference Held in New York

The Jefferies Power, Utilities, and Clean Energy Conference took place in New York on March 4-5, 2025. The event brought together industry leaders to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the clean energy sector, fostering collaboration and innovation.

03/05/25 Challenges in Texas Power System Due to Low Wind Speeds

Texas is experiencing prolonged low wind speeds, leading to increased reliance on fossil fuel generation and potential delays in scheduled maintenance for power plants. This situation raises concerns about the state’s ability to meet high electricity demand during the upcoming summer months.

03/04/25 Illinois Governor Announces $500 Million Investment in Copper Component Manufacturing

Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois announced a significant $500 million investment in the modernization and expansion of Wieland Rolled Products North America’s facility in East Alton. This project aims to enhance the production of copper and copper alloy components essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy applications, securing 800 jobs in the state. The expansion is supported by approximately $231 million in state incentives, including tax benefits and infrastructure funding, reinforcing Illinois’ leadership in advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

03/04/25 Challenges in Advancing Green Hydrogen Projects in Australia

Despite initial enthusiasm, 99% of announced green hydrogen projects in Australia have not progressed beyond approval stages. Factors such as high production costs, infrastructure challenges, and limited international demand have led to the shelving of 61 projects, including significant developments from major investors. Political divisions over incentivizing green hydrogen further complicate the sector’s future, though potential remains in areas like green ammonia production and its application in transforming industries such as green steel.

03/04/25 Plug Power Secures $1 Billion Equity Deal to Expand Green Hydrogen Market

Plug Power has entered into a $1 billion standby equity purchase agreement with Yorkville Advisors, allowing the investment fund to acquire up to $1 billion of Plug Power’s stock over the next two years. The funds are intended to support the company’s expansion in the green hydrogen market, particularly in producing green hydrogen via electrolysis—a carbon-free process separating hydrogen from water. This move aligns with Plug Power’s strategy to enhance its green hydrogen infrastructure across the U.S., backed by a recent $1.66 billion loan guarantee from the Department of Energy.

03/04/25 N2OFF Establishes U.S. Subsidiary to Expand Solar PV Operations

N2OFF has established a U.S. subsidiary to expand its solar photovoltaic (PV) operations. This strategic move aims to tap into the growing U.S. renewable energy market, reflecting the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Corporate Adoption of Renewable Energy

03/03/25 Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Large corporations are increasingly entering into long-term PPAs with new wind and solar farms. In the past year, these agreements rose by 35%, with tech giants like Amazon leading in the U.S. This trend bolsters the renewable sector as governments reassess subsidies.

Policy and Regulatory Developments

03/03/25 Western Australia’s Renewable Energy Progress: Premier Roger Cook lauded Western Australia as a “renewable energy powerhouse,” noting an increase in Perth’s grid renewable energy from 14% to 38% since 2017. However, a leaked document indicates a slowdown in wind and solar project developments, raising concerns about meeting future energy demands post-coal power station closures in 2027.
03/03/25 U.S. Offshore Wind Energy Challenges: President Donald Trump’s previous suspension of offshore wind development permits has critically impacted the U.S. offshore wind industry, affecting over 90% of planned projects totaling more than 60 gigawatts. This move threatens clean energy goals and power stability, particularly on the East Coast.

Economic Trends and Investments

03/03/25 Cost Competitiveness of Renewables: The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reported that 81% of renewable capacity additions in 2023 were more cost-effective than fossil fuel alternatives, making a strong case for increased investments in renewables by 2030.
03/03/25 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Initiatives: The USDA announced over $5.49 billion in grants and loans for 28 clean energy projects across various states, aiming to lower electricity bills, expand renewable energy access, and create jobs in rural communities.

Technological Innovations

03/03/25 Solar-Agriculture Integration: Innovative projects are combining solar energy production with agricultural practices on the same land, optimizing land use and providing dual benefits of energy generation and crop cultivation.

Policy and Regulatory Developments

03/02/25 European Union’s Affordable Energy Action Plan: On February 26, 2025, the European Commission unveiled the Affordable Energy Action Plan aimed at reducing electricity bills, promoting clean energy sources, and diversifying energy suppliers. Key elements include introducing new power tariffs to access cheaper electricity, encouraging member states to lower energy taxes, and decoupling retail power prices from volatile natural gas prices. The plan also seeks to accelerate permitting processes for renewable projects and proposes a Grid Package in 2026.

Industry Challenges

03/02/25 Impact of U.S. Offshore Wind Permit Suspensions: Recent directives from former President Donald Trump have suspended offshore wind development permits, critically affecting the U.S. offshore wind industry. This decision has led to significant delays for projects totaling over 60 gigawatts, prompting concerns about hindering the nation’s power supply and decarbonization efforts. Notable developers have responded by halting or reducing their investments in the American market.
03/02/25 BP’s Shift in Renewable Energy Investments: BP is under pressure from Elliott Management to abandon its renewable energy projects. The company plans to reduce its renewable energy investments by over $5 billion annually while increasing oil and gas investments to $10 billion. Elliott argues that BP lacks the scale and expertise for cost-effective operations in sectors like solar and wind, suggesting a complete exit from these areas.

Technological Innovations

03/02/25 Advancements in Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth’s internal heat, is gaining attention as a sustainable and near-limitless power source. Projects like the Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) in Utah aim to advance geothermal technology by creating underground reservoirs that can be drilled almost anywhere. Despite engineering challenges, innovations inspired by fracking and new drilling methods show promise for the future of geothermal energy.

Consumer Trends

03/02/25 Adoption of Home Battery Systems in Australia: Australian households are increasingly adopting solar power and private battery storage as part of the drive toward net-zero emissions. With over 40% of homes utilizing solar power, the focus is now on home battery systems. More than 30,000 battery units were sold in the first half of last year, and it is expected that home batteries will significantly contribute to the renewable energy mix. However, the upfront cost, which can be up to $15,000, poses a barrier, leading to calls for a national Home Battery Saver Program to provide rebates.