Empowering Utilities to Participate in the Clean-Energy Transition

One of the central challenges in transitioning to a more distributed and decarbonized energy grid is supporting utilities to actively engage and lead by example and innovation, rather than have them remain on the sidelines. This is the emphasis of a large portion of the work of Rocky Mountain Institute’s (RMI’s) Electricity program, and can be observed most directly at the institute’s annual Electricity Innovation Lab (e–Lab) Accelerator event.

Spotlight

Secon Solar Ltd

Independent distributors of renewable products through-out the UK and Ireland. Solar Thermal (Resol, PAW, Kingspan etc), ASHPs ( Panasonic, Samsung, Mitsubishi, Hitachi, Vaillant and Grant), GSHPs (Vaillant), Biomass, and PV. Specialist distributor of Hitachi Aircon range - leading industry expert on hand to assist with design and spec.

OTHER ARTICLES
Solar+Storage

Building a Clean and Green Smart Grid

Article | June 14, 2022

The evolution of smart grid and the transformation in the power sector? The concept of a Smart Grid has taken centre stage with an evolution of Solar, Wind energy sources, advanced technologies such as AI/ML , Energy storage , introduction of Electric vehicles, sensors that transmit real time data all of which make a smarter, more efficient electrical power grid possible. In contrast the Existing grid is facing some complex challenges that include integrating renewable energy, Cyber security, high losses, unable to support large Electric vehicle penetration and empowering consumers to become power producers. It is time for India to make this paradigm shift that touches right from Generation, Transmission, Distribution and consumption. So, the first step would be the installation of smart meters and Advanced Metering infrastructure which is a key component of the smart grid. The roll out of smart meters has already started and integrating other pieces into this smart meter value chain and other building blocks. This new metering system enables two-way flow of information between consumers and utilities and improve the overall grid operations, cost efficient and support large scale penetration of Electric vehicles. A major transformation is underway and utilities need to develop their roadmap for creating a modern Smart Grid. Solar is seeing low tariffs and what one can interpret from these solar tariff trends? In the last one year, more than 10GW worth of solar projects are auctioned and tariffs discovered are between Rs2 to Rs 2.5. These low tariffs are result of many factors that include aggressive bidding, entry of foreign players, and expectation that module prices will further fall. Also this Covid pandemic has shrink the economy, thus there are fewer tenders from the govt. with more developers chasing fewer tenders to stay in the race. These low prices put enormous pressure on EPC companies and Module suppliers to deliver at these rock bottom prices. These bids take into account the low prices of Chinese imports, now with BCD (Basic custom duty) in force from April 2022 it will be challenging for power producers to continue executing projects at such low prices. Another concern is the delay in signing PPA’s (Power purchase agreements) by Discoms. PPA’s once signed are valid for the entire term of PPA which is usually 25 years. But given the tender tariffs falling every few months, Discoms prefer to wait and delay the signing or renegotiate the existing PPA, dampening the investor confidence and threatening the viability of the Projects. In these circumstances the role of regulatory oversight increases to protect the interests of all the stakeholders. However, in the coming years technology improvements with addition of energy storage and better forecasting techniques, Solar would become the major source and also the cheapest source. So sunny days ahead of solar. The decentralized solar and innovative business models and financing? In the current system of centralized power system, a large power plant produces power, transmits, and distributes it among industries and homes. This process is inefficient as some of the electricity is lost in transmission and distribution. A De-centralized solar is more efficient to generate and consume power locally. It also helps create small businesses and technicians to build and maintain these solar plants. Also as Solar and battery systems increase and become more economical Peer to Peer energy trading is possible where consumers become prosumers (both producers and consumers) and sell their excess power to their peers. This next generation Energy Management and Peer-to-Peer Energy trading facilitates buy and sell orders just like share trading stock exchange. The Energy trading platform maps the buyers and sellers as per their bids and settles the trades. By introducing Block chain technology for energy trading further reduces the transaction costs. The possible business models would be Community based Solar plants where rooftops and open spaces could be used to generate power and trade. All of this result in less losses and brings the much needed dynamism in the distribution of energy. Role of AI and data analytics in the energy sector? The Power sector generates large amounts of data from various nodes on the grid and unfortunately most of this data go unanalysed due to lack of infrastructure and domain expertise. But now with the maturity in data management systems and two-way communication enabling real time data from various components of the grid giving latest and integrated snapshot of the entire power system, it is possible through the application of AI to provide services such as Fault detection, Predictive maintenance, Power quality Monitoring, and Renewable energy forecasting. Many discoms are plagued by theft of power and Cyberattacks. The recent Cyber attack on Maharashtra power grid is an example that caused massive power outage in Mumbai last October plunging the city into darkness. By using the power of AI/ML, algorithms can be trained to detect any attack based on certain attributes. As soon as the attack is detected an alert is sent to the security engineers to bring the system to safety mode. In addition, Smart meters with pre-paid mechanism are expected to be deployed for remote meter reading and accurate billing thus preventing revenue loss. AI/ML has the potential to cut energy waste, lower energy costs, and bring more operation efficiencies for the utilities. Strategies in EV charging and integration with smart grid? EV’s are promising solution to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce the cost of transportation and improving the health of citizens. The emerging business models are Public charging stations, third party owned operated charging station, and owner operated charging station. However, the ground reality is far fewer EV’s are running on road due to higher cost, Range anxiety, and long charging times. So, there is need to work closely with all the stakeholders right from utilities, Regulatory bodies, Car manufacturers, charging station operators to expedite the process of EV related infrastructure and incentivize customers to adapt to EV’s rather than convention vehicles. In your question you asked about integration with smart grid and this is a term that captures the shift from basic to smart charging. A smart grid is key to smart EV charging as large number of EV charging at same time can degrade grid performance causing voltage and frequency fluctuations and cause peak power demand or sudden drop in demand. With smart grid in place it is possible to do load balancing, adjust charging patterns and avoid peaking of power. Also one more challenge is there are 3 competing standards and India should define its own standards and enable charging of any vehicle at any charging station. This interoperability is possible by developing standards for front–end and back-end communication and signalling process between Electric vehicles and charging stations and the grid that supplies the power. Smart grid is essential for large deployments of EV’s. Investment opportunities and job creation in this transformation to clean power? Covid has changed the entire investment paradigm and made all of us Environmentally conscious. This is wake up call to prioritize a more sustainable approach to investment in companies that are high on Environmental, Social and Governance score. The recent momentum in ESG investment with more than 3,300 ESG funds is an indication that businesses that demonstrate business ethics, transparency, Sustainability benefit companies and investors and attract best talent too. The spectacular rise of share price of Tesla is a clear message from investors on clean energy and EV transportation. As the world is getting serious India has a catching up to do from the findings of Refinitiv on ESG. As Asset managers, Pension funds, Oil and Gas companies evaluate their exposure to fossil based energy sources and switch towards clean energy this is going to create new Green jobs. These new Green jobs range from retrofitting homes with solar panels, providing home based charging stations, energy efficient appliances, Solid waste mgmt, e-waste mgmt. Similarly, Smart cities, Green buildings, greening of enterprises can be achieved by training the work force on these new concepts and driving investments towards job creation and sustainability. In summary, power sector is in for a major transformation and utilities, industries need to tap the right talent to deal with this disruption and reap immense benefits.

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Solar+Storage

Renewable Fuels Will Help Pave the Way to a 100% Renewable Energy

Article | June 8, 2022

The need to reduce carbon emissions is real. In 2018, the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reported that global emissions would need to reach net-zero (or carbon-neutral) by 2050 to prevent severe climate change impacts. Electricity is a major contributor—electricity generation was responsible for approximately 33% of total CO2 emissions in the U.S. in 2018. Electric utilities stand to play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions. Many are up to the task of decarbonizing their operations and supplying carbon-free or carbon-neutral energy to their customers.

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Strategy and Best Practices

Solar Panel Direction, Orientation and Tilt Factors

Article | July 8, 2022

For anyone who has owned solar panels in the past, or even many considering solar power installation in the near future, it’s generally understood that direction is important in this field. Specifically, the ability of solar panels to point south, where they will receive the maximum possible sunlight and therefore create the maximum amount of energy, is vital for many solar panel installations – but it’s important to realize that the simple direction of the panels is not the only important variable here. At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we’re happy to offer both commercial and residential solar panel installation services, including the utilization of the Tesla Powerwall battery backup. We assist our clients with every part of solar panel installation, including important directional and related themes that will play a role in how much sunlight your panels are able to soak up. Today we’ll focus on some of the important variables here, including why south-facing panels are the optimal approach plus several other basic factors to keep in mind when it comes to maximizing panel positioning and direction.

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Energy

The Future of Renewable Energy

Article | August 3, 2021

Renewable energy is the energy generated from natural resources on Earth that are neither limited or exhaustible, such as wind and sun. Thus, renewable energy is an alternative to conventional energy based on fossil fuels and is generally less harmful to the environment. Some Sources of Renewable Energy Solar: Solar energy is created by capturing sunlight's radiant energy and turning it into heat, electricity, or hot water. Photovoltaic (PV) systems utilize solar cells to convert direct sunlight into energy. The significant advantage of solar energy is that it is functionally infinite. There is an infinite supply of solar energy with the technology to harvest it, making fossil fuels obsolete. Using solar energy instead of fossil fuels can also help improve public health and environmental conditions. In addition, solar energy has the potential to eliminate energy expenses in the long run, as well as decrease your energy bills in the short term. Many government, state, and local governments also provide rebates or tax credits to encourage investment in solar energy. To know more about Solar Energy, click here. Although solar energy can save you money in the long term, it has a high upfront cost out of reach for most households. In addition, for personal houses, homeowners should also have enough sunlight and space to install their solar panels, restricting who can realistically adopt this technology on an individual level. Wind: Wind farms use turbines to generate wind energy and convert it to electricity. There are many types of systems used to convert wind energy, and each one is unique. Commercial-grade wind-powered generating systems can power a wide range of organizations, while single-wind turbines are utilized to complement current energy organizations. Utility-scale wind farms, which are purchased on a contract or wholesale basis, are another option. Wind energy is technically a kind of solar energy. Wind is caused by temperature variations in the atmosphere and the rotation of the Earth, and the geography of the planet. Wind energy is a clean energy source, which means it does not damage the environment in the same way other types of energy do. Wind energy does not emit carbon dioxide or any other hazardous pollutants that can degrade the environment or damage human health, such as smog, acid rain, or other heat-trapping gases. Investment in wind energy technology can also lead to new employment opportunities and job training, as farm turbines should be serviced and maintained to remain operational. Wind farms are often constructed in rural or isolated locations, far from busy towns where electricity is most required. Wind energy must be transmitted through transition lines, which raises the cost. Even though wind turbines produce relatively little pollution, some cities are opposed to them because they dominate skylines and create noise. In addition, wind turbines can pose a danger to nearby animals, such as birds, who are occasionally killed when they collide with the turbine's arms while flying. Hydroelectric: When it comes to hydroelectric power, most people think of dams. Pumped-storage hydropower is the process through which water flows through the turbines of a dam to generate energy. Run-of-river hydropower utilizes a canal to funnel water through rather than a dam to power it. Hydroelectric power is very flexible since it can be generated utilizing both large-scale projects such as the Hoover Dam and small-scale projects such as underwater turbines and lower dams on rivers and streams. In addition, because hydroelectric power does not emit pollutants, it is a far more ecologically beneficial energy source for our environment. The majority of hydroelectric power plants use more energy than they generate. To pump water, the storage systems may need to utilize fossil fuels. Although hydroelectric power does not contaminate the air, it disrupts rivers. It harms the animals that dwell in them by changing water levels, currents, and migratory routes for many fish and other freshwater ecosystems. Geothermal: Geothermal heat is heat trapped under the Earth's crust due to the Earth's creation 4.5 billion years ago and radioactive decay. Large quantities of this heat can sometimes escape spontaneously, but only all at once, resulting in well-known phenomena like volcanic explosions and geysers. This heat can be collected and utilized to generate geothermal energy by utilizing steam generated by heated water pumping under the surface, which rises to the surface and can power a turbine. Geothermal energy is not as common as other forms of renewable energy, but it has considerable energy supply potential. In addition, it has a little environmental impact because it can be constructed underground. As geothermal energy is replenished naturally, it is not in danger of depletion. When it comes to the drawbacks of geothermal energy, the cost is a significant issue. Not only is the infrastructure expensive to construct, but it is also vulnerable to earthquakes in some parts of the world. Is renewable energy capable of powering the future? Renewable energy technologies already account for approximately 26% of total global power, and the International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that this will rise to 30% by 2024. According to the IEA, by 2024, the world's renewable energy capacity will have increased by 1,200 GW, which is equivalent to the capacity of the whole United States. Expert analysis indicates that a completely sustainable energy system can be achieved worldwide over the next 30 years; the difficult part is persuading countries to change their ways. What is the significance of renewable energy in the future? There are many reasons why renewable energy is critical for the future, particularly given the negative impact that fossil fuels have on our world. This includes, among other things, air and water pollution, habitat and wildlife loss, and greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. Here are a few examples of why renewable energy is so important: Lowers air pollution: By lowering air pollution, renewable energy may help improve people's health worldwide. Air pollution is a significant environmental problem, particularly in metropolitan areas and developing countries, and the World Health Organization estimates that 7 million people die prematurely due to inhaling contaminated air each year. Lowers the danger of floods and droughts: Using renewable energy can also lower the risk of floods and droughts throughout the world. For example, many gallons of water are required to operate power plants that burn fossil fuels, leading to droughts in many low-rainfall nations. In contrast, climate change induced by the combustion of fossil fuels produces greater rainfall in other areas, resulting in catastrophic floods. Promotes local economies: The development of renewable energy technologies also contributes to creating new employment and financing for local economies. As a result, more employment in renewable energy is being generated every day, and they are only expected to grow more secure as technology advances. Lower long-term costs: Clean energy sources are becoming more appealing investment possibilities than fossil fuels. With the growing popularity of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, investment is low risk, even with hefty initial installation costs. They can effectively generate electricity "for free" for decades after installation. A future powered by renewable energy will result in a more sustainable environment and help many local economies in ways that fossil fuels cannot. What is the best future renewable energy source? Solar energy and wind power, together with hydropower, are considered the greatest renewable energy sources for powering our future planet. They are the cleanest renewable resources and are ideal for household, industrial, and national grid uses. They can offer limitless quantities of clean energy to the world, but they can also boost local economies. Wind power technology has already resulted in a significant rise in employment and helps to put money back into local communities, with additional jobs being generated with each installation. Solar energy can benefit everyone who has sufficient space for PV panels, and it is much less intrusive than wind turbines. And, although initial installation prices can be high, they will start to fall as solar becomes more common. Is it possible for the world to survive on 100% renewable energy in the future? The world may survive on 100% renewable energy in the future, but this will not be without challenges. To read more about the challenges in renewable energy click here. Each nation will have to go through its transition phase, which will be relatively simple for some and more difficult for others. Others may be hesitant even to begin the transition if their economy is highly dependent on fossil fuels. The world's future can be unpredictable, and it's impossible to tell if it's possible to live completely on renewable energy. Still, we can help make the planet a better place by switching our homes' electricity to renewable energy. In the future, how efficient will renewable energy be? Renewable energy efficiency is determined by how much energy can be generated in a given period and how much it costs to generate this energy. Despite the fact that all renewable energy technologies have high initial costs, the costs of generating energy are considerably lower than the costs of obtaining fossil fuels. With the continuous advancement of renewable energy technology, this efficiency will only increase, bringing us closer to a bright future for renewable energy. What are the future benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy? Benefits: Renewable energy technologies have an infinite supply — as long as we have the sun, wind, water, and natural heat, we have renewable energy technologies. Reduced global warming impacts, such as floods, severe storms, droughts, and other extreme weather conditions. Fewer air contaminants, which lead to improved respiratory health. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions result in a more stable climate. More employment for local areas. More robust supply, which assists in the elimination of power outages. Enhanced accessibility. Lower energy costs, particularly with renewable energy prices falling. Drawbacks: Expensive initial installation costs. Intermittent - depending on the renewable energy source, they will not provide electricity 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Solar energy, for example, cannot be produced at night, and wind is not always powerful enough to spin a turbine. More advancements in storage solutions are required - renewable energy storage can be costly, but this is expected to improve as technology advances. Geographical constraints - some areas will be more suited to renewable energy sources than others. What factors will influence the future of renewable energy? The environmental advantages and the cost of transition are the two most important factors determining the future of renewable energy. The benefits of renewable energy sources often exceed the drawbacks, yet the high initial costs frequently discourage people from investing. Luckily, as environmental problems become more generally recognized, renewable energy prices, including installation costs, are falling, providing greater incentive to switch to renewable energy sources. So, what does the future of renewable energy hold? Renewable energy is expected to grow in popularity over the next decade, attempting to minimize the impacts of climate change. This may take some time, but we will have to switch to renewable energy to fight against climate change and protect our environment. FAQ Why is renewable energy the future? Alternative energy sources emit much less Carbon dioxide than natural gas, coal, and other fossil fuels. Switching to renewable energy sources for electricity production will benefit the environment by delaying and reversing climate change. Is renewable energy a good investment for business? There are many benefits to investing in renewable energy sources for businesses, including increased marketing possibilities, fewer emissions, cheaper energy costs, and many more. Businesses must lead the way in becoming more sustainable by expanding their usage of renewable energy. What is the best renewable energy source for the future? Solar energy and wind power, together with hydropower, are considered the greatest renewable energy sources for powering our future planet. They are the cleanest renewable resources and are ideal for household, industrial, and national grid uses. They can offer limitless quantities of clean energy to the world, but they can also boost local economies. Wind power technology has already resulted in a significant rise in employment and helps to put money back into local communities, with additional jobs being generated with each installation. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "Why is renewable energy the future?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Alternative energy sources emit much less Carbon dioxide than natural gas, coal, and other fossil fuels. Switching to renewable energy sources for electricity production will benefit the environment by delaying and reversing climate change." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "Is renewable energy a good investment for business?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "There are many benefits to investing in renewable energy sources for businesses, including increased marketing possibilities, fewer emissions, cheaper energy costs, and many more. Businesses must lead the way in becoming more sustainable by expanding their usage of renewable energy." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the best renewable energy source for the future?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Solar energy and wind power, together with hydropower, are considered the greatest renewable energy sources for powering our future planet. They are the cleanest renewable resources and are ideal for household, industrial, and national grid uses. They can offer limitless quantities of clean energy to the world, but they can also boost local economies. Wind power technology has already resulted in a significant rise in employment and helps to put money back into local communities, with additional jobs being generated with each installation." } }] }

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Spotlight

Secon Solar Ltd

Independent distributors of renewable products through-out the UK and Ireland. Solar Thermal (Resol, PAW, Kingspan etc), ASHPs ( Panasonic, Samsung, Mitsubishi, Hitachi, Vaillant and Grant), GSHPs (Vaillant), Biomass, and PV. Specialist distributor of Hitachi Aircon range - leading industry expert on hand to assist with design and spec.

Related News

Solar+Storage

TROES Achieves Field Certification for Multiple Off-Grid Projects, Demonstrating Commitment to Safety and Quality

Business Wire | July 05, 2023

TROES, a leading provider of cutting-edge battery energy storage solutions, is delighted to announce the successful field certification of several off-grid projects, including a noteworthy project in Canada that recently surpassed the field inspection process based on UL9540 standards for one of its off-grid projects. Boasting a portfolio of off-grid projects spanning the Caribbean and Canada, TROES' commitment to safety and quality in advanced Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is exemplified by the testing it has undergone and continued compliance to industry best practices, ensuring the reliable and safe operation of off-grid projects with BESS components. Canada enforces stringent electrical safety standards for energy systems, including off-grid microgrid projects with BESS components. Field certification is mandatory to verify compliance, and the field certificate standards ensure safe operation through rigorous testing to ensure adherence to best practices. TROES passing the field inspection showcases the company's standards of safety and reliability in their BESS products. In off-grid applications, advanced technology is crucial. For example, in islanding mode, the fluctuating renewable energy generation influenced by weather conditions leads to variable power availability. The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) plays a vital role in effectively managing energy supply and demand to ensure a reliable and stable power output. Additionally, the BESS may serve as the primary or sole power source in islanding mode, making it essential to maintain the State of Charge (SoC) within safe operating limits. This is necessary to prevent over-discharge or overcharge situations that can degrade battery health and reduce its lifespan, where TROES excels in achieving successful off-grid projects for clients across the globe. Furthermore, without the utility grid providing the last layer of protection, the detection and protection against faults or abnormal conditions become crucial aspects to consider. The majority of the off-grid projects TROES conducted were for a customer who previously relied solely on generators to power their energy usage, incurring significant fuel and maintenance costs. By using TROES’ BESS solution, the generator's operation becomes optimized and the noise pollution will be reduced, allowing the BESS and renewable energy system to provide uninterrupted quiet electricity throughout the warmer seasons. The successful completion of these projects exemplifies TROES' commitment to delivering state-of-the-art C&I energy storage solutions that enhance power generation efficiency, reduce costs, and promote sustainability for its valued customers. The increasing demand for reliable off-grid power solutions in remote locations and the urgent need to transition to clean energy sources have created a significant market for TROES' products. Off-grid battery energy storage system (BESS) solutions are essential in North America due to limited grid access, power outages, renewable energy integration, cost savings, and energy independence. By offering reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly off-grid BESS solutions, TROES empowers individuals and communities in the remote areas to achieve energy independence, enhance resilience, and contribute to a sustainable future. "We are thrilled to have successfully passed the field inspection based on UL9540 standards," said Vienna Zhou, CEO & Founder at TROES. "We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation, ensuring our customers benefit from cutting-edge technology that optimizes their energy systems while adhering to the highest industry standards." With a focus on safety, reliability, and superior performance, TROES remains committed to exceeding customer expectations and revolutionizing the energy storage landscape. About TROES TROES is a leading provider of advanced battery energy storage solutions, offering a comprehensive turn-key energy storage technology package. Their offerings include battery energy storage hardware, remote monitoring and operation software, and turn-key control solutions. With a strong focus on safety, reliability, and innovation, TROES delivers cutting-edge solutions that optimize power generation, reduce expenses, and enhance sustainability. Their diverse range of products and services caters to various sectors, including commercial, industrial, agriculture and utility-scale applications.

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Energy

Clean Energy Inks New Fueling Agreements with Customers Looking to Reduce Carbon Emissions with RNG

businesswire | June 12, 2023

Clean Energy Fuels Corp, the largest provider of the cleanest fuel for the transportation market, announced a slew of new deals with several well-known consumer brands and some of the nation’s largest and most environmentally-conscious transit agencies. Liberty Coca-Cola, one of the country’s largest bottlers and distributors of Coke and other brands and serving the Northeast U.S., has signed a fueling contract with Clean Energy to power trucks in New York and Philadelphia with renewable natural gas (RNG). These are its first trucks to operate on RNG, a sustainable fuel made from organic waste that significantly reduces carbon emissions by an average of 300% versus diesel. “Liberty Coca-Cola strives to be the best corporate citizen we can be in the communities where we do business, and having a cleaner-operating and more sustainable fleet with RNG is a good way to that,” said Stanley Walker, distribution manager, Liberty Coca-Cola. “RNG reduces carbon emissions and improves air quality easily and cost-effectively.” Electrolux North America, a leading global home appliance company, has signed a fueling agreement with Clean Energy for an estimated 200,000 gallons of RNG to be used by new trucks from a contracted carrier that will fuel at Clean Energy’s station in Ontario, CA. Recology, a waste management company, has inked new and extended RNG supply and maintenance contracts for an anticipated 800,000 and 6.5 million gallons respectively. Recology stations in Gilroy, Brisbane, and Davis, CA support more than 150 RNG trucks. Additionally, Recology has contracted Clean Energy to build a new RNG station In Snohomish, WA that is projected to fuel 30 trucks. Long-time customer and an early adopter of RNG, the Big Blue Bus in Santa Monica, CA has signed a maintenance agreement for its fleet of 195 transit buses that fuels with an anticipated 7.5 million gallons of RNG. In 2015, Big Blue Bus became one of the country's first municipal transit agencies to convert its entire fleet to RNG. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, Big Blue Bus transports 44,000 passengers daily across a 58-square-mile service area. “We count Big Blue Bus as one of our most important customers because the leadership role the transit agency plays in tackling the issues of clean air and climate change,” said Chad Lindholm, Clean Energy Senior Vice President. “Fueling their fleet of buses with RNG provides immediate and significant carbon reductions, while improving air quality for people who live in and around the community of Santa Monica.” “Our longstanding partnership with Clean Energy helps us deliver on our mission to provide affordable and sustainable transportation, while creating healthier, more livable communities. Further, our adoption of renewable natural gas aligns with our strategic goal to implement a full zero-emissions fleet by 2030,” said Ed King, director, Santa Monica Department of Transportation. Clean Energy has been contracted by Gold Coast Transit to maintain its station in Oxnard, CA which uses an estimated 4 million gallons of RNG for 82 transit buses. Channel Island Dairy Farms has signed a contract for an estimated 300,000 gallons of RNG for heavy-duty trucks operating in the Corcoran, CA area. The Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority has signed a maintenance agreement with Clean Energy for its Birmingham, AL station. The station is expected to use an anticipated 2 million gallons of fuel for 186 transit buses. The City of Tucson has signed a maintenance agreement with Clean Energy to support its fleet operations. The station uses an anticipated 2 million gallons of fuel to power 150 transit buses and refuse trucks. Valley Regional Transit in Boise, ID has inked a maintenance agreement with Clean Energy. The station uses an expected 1.7 million gallons of fuel to power its fleet of 30 transit buses. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ has signed an agreement with Clean Energy to maintain its station. The station is anticipated to provide 1.5 million gallons of fuel for 30 park shuttle buses. Sweeping Corporation of America, the nation's largest power sweeping company, has signed a contract for a projected 250,000 gallons of fuel to power 78 trucks in Northern and Southern California. Campbell’s Trucking Company in Tacoma, WA has signed a fueling deal for an expected 300,000 gallons of fuel for 15 heavy-duty trucks. About Clean Energy Clean Energy Fuels Corp. is the country’s largest provider of the cleanest fuel for the transportation market. Our mission is to decarbonize transportation through the development and delivery of renewable natural gas (RNG), a sustainable fuel derived from organic waste. Clean Energy allows thousands of vehicles, from airport shuttles to city buses to waste and heavy-duty trucks, to reduce their amount of climate-harming greenhouse gas. We operate a vast network of fueling stations across the U.S. and Canada.

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Solar+Storage, Energy

Intersect Power Achieves Commercial Operation of 310 MWp Athos III Solar Project in CA

Intersect Power, LLC | January 13, 2023

Intersect Power, LLC announced that its Athos III solar project in Riverside County, California, will start making money on December 22, 2022. The Athos III solar project was constructed by union workers, with solar panels, batteries, and steel piles made in America. This means that it is expected to comply with the domestic content and prevailing wage requirements of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The Athos III solar project (Blythe Mesa Solar II) is generating 224 MWac/310 MWp of dependable solar energy to power about 94,000 households and features 448 MWh of co-located storage. Sheldon Kimber, Intersect Power CEO, stated, "Today marks a major milestone for the Intersect Power team and our impact as a clean energy developer, owner, and operator." Source – Cision PR Newswire Intersect Power's Athos III solar project is part of its near-term portfolio, which includes 2.2 GW of solar photovoltaic and 1.4 GWh of co-located storage. The majority of the portfolio will go live in 2023. As a result, the Athos III solar project generated 500 peak union positions. Funding for the project's operations and construction was secured as part of the expanded portfolio financing announced in November 2022, when Intersect Power closed on commitments from critical financial institutions and investors for portfolio-level term loans, tax equity, and construction finance. HPS Investment Partners provided the portfolio term debt. The tax equity was delivered by Morgan Stanley Renewables Inc. The construction debt was provided by coordinating Lead Arrangers Santander Corporate & Investment Banking and MUFG. Along with Cobank, Helaba, KeyBanc Capital Markets, and Nord LB as joint lead arrangers. About Intersect Power Intersect Power is a clean energy firm that provides retail and wholesale energy markets with innovative and scalable low-carbon solutions. The corporation produces some of the world's most significant clean energy resources, supplying North American clients with low-carbon power, fuels, and related products. Intersect Power's base portfolio consists of 2.2 GW of solar PV and 1.4 GWh of co-located storage that are either under development or in service. The company's business model calls for expanding grid-connected renewables and large-scale clean energy assets like green hydrogen.

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Solar+Storage

TROES Achieves Field Certification for Multiple Off-Grid Projects, Demonstrating Commitment to Safety and Quality

Business Wire | July 05, 2023

TROES, a leading provider of cutting-edge battery energy storage solutions, is delighted to announce the successful field certification of several off-grid projects, including a noteworthy project in Canada that recently surpassed the field inspection process based on UL9540 standards for one of its off-grid projects. Boasting a portfolio of off-grid projects spanning the Caribbean and Canada, TROES' commitment to safety and quality in advanced Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) is exemplified by the testing it has undergone and continued compliance to industry best practices, ensuring the reliable and safe operation of off-grid projects with BESS components. Canada enforces stringent electrical safety standards for energy systems, including off-grid microgrid projects with BESS components. Field certification is mandatory to verify compliance, and the field certificate standards ensure safe operation through rigorous testing to ensure adherence to best practices. TROES passing the field inspection showcases the company's standards of safety and reliability in their BESS products. In off-grid applications, advanced technology is crucial. For example, in islanding mode, the fluctuating renewable energy generation influenced by weather conditions leads to variable power availability. The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) plays a vital role in effectively managing energy supply and demand to ensure a reliable and stable power output. Additionally, the BESS may serve as the primary or sole power source in islanding mode, making it essential to maintain the State of Charge (SoC) within safe operating limits. This is necessary to prevent over-discharge or overcharge situations that can degrade battery health and reduce its lifespan, where TROES excels in achieving successful off-grid projects for clients across the globe. Furthermore, without the utility grid providing the last layer of protection, the detection and protection against faults or abnormal conditions become crucial aspects to consider. The majority of the off-grid projects TROES conducted were for a customer who previously relied solely on generators to power their energy usage, incurring significant fuel and maintenance costs. By using TROES’ BESS solution, the generator's operation becomes optimized and the noise pollution will be reduced, allowing the BESS and renewable energy system to provide uninterrupted quiet electricity throughout the warmer seasons. The successful completion of these projects exemplifies TROES' commitment to delivering state-of-the-art C&I energy storage solutions that enhance power generation efficiency, reduce costs, and promote sustainability for its valued customers. The increasing demand for reliable off-grid power solutions in remote locations and the urgent need to transition to clean energy sources have created a significant market for TROES' products. Off-grid battery energy storage system (BESS) solutions are essential in North America due to limited grid access, power outages, renewable energy integration, cost savings, and energy independence. By offering reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly off-grid BESS solutions, TROES empowers individuals and communities in the remote areas to achieve energy independence, enhance resilience, and contribute to a sustainable future. "We are thrilled to have successfully passed the field inspection based on UL9540 standards," said Vienna Zhou, CEO & Founder at TROES. "We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation, ensuring our customers benefit from cutting-edge technology that optimizes their energy systems while adhering to the highest industry standards." With a focus on safety, reliability, and superior performance, TROES remains committed to exceeding customer expectations and revolutionizing the energy storage landscape. About TROES TROES is a leading provider of advanced battery energy storage solutions, offering a comprehensive turn-key energy storage technology package. Their offerings include battery energy storage hardware, remote monitoring and operation software, and turn-key control solutions. With a strong focus on safety, reliability, and innovation, TROES delivers cutting-edge solutions that optimize power generation, reduce expenses, and enhance sustainability. Their diverse range of products and services caters to various sectors, including commercial, industrial, agriculture and utility-scale applications.

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Energy

Clean Energy Inks New Fueling Agreements with Customers Looking to Reduce Carbon Emissions with RNG

businesswire | June 12, 2023

Clean Energy Fuels Corp, the largest provider of the cleanest fuel for the transportation market, announced a slew of new deals with several well-known consumer brands and some of the nation’s largest and most environmentally-conscious transit agencies. Liberty Coca-Cola, one of the country’s largest bottlers and distributors of Coke and other brands and serving the Northeast U.S., has signed a fueling contract with Clean Energy to power trucks in New York and Philadelphia with renewable natural gas (RNG). These are its first trucks to operate on RNG, a sustainable fuel made from organic waste that significantly reduces carbon emissions by an average of 300% versus diesel. “Liberty Coca-Cola strives to be the best corporate citizen we can be in the communities where we do business, and having a cleaner-operating and more sustainable fleet with RNG is a good way to that,” said Stanley Walker, distribution manager, Liberty Coca-Cola. “RNG reduces carbon emissions and improves air quality easily and cost-effectively.” Electrolux North America, a leading global home appliance company, has signed a fueling agreement with Clean Energy for an estimated 200,000 gallons of RNG to be used by new trucks from a contracted carrier that will fuel at Clean Energy’s station in Ontario, CA. Recology, a waste management company, has inked new and extended RNG supply and maintenance contracts for an anticipated 800,000 and 6.5 million gallons respectively. Recology stations in Gilroy, Brisbane, and Davis, CA support more than 150 RNG trucks. Additionally, Recology has contracted Clean Energy to build a new RNG station In Snohomish, WA that is projected to fuel 30 trucks. Long-time customer and an early adopter of RNG, the Big Blue Bus in Santa Monica, CA has signed a maintenance agreement for its fleet of 195 transit buses that fuels with an anticipated 7.5 million gallons of RNG. In 2015, Big Blue Bus became one of the country's first municipal transit agencies to convert its entire fleet to RNG. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, Big Blue Bus transports 44,000 passengers daily across a 58-square-mile service area. “We count Big Blue Bus as one of our most important customers because the leadership role the transit agency plays in tackling the issues of clean air and climate change,” said Chad Lindholm, Clean Energy Senior Vice President. “Fueling their fleet of buses with RNG provides immediate and significant carbon reductions, while improving air quality for people who live in and around the community of Santa Monica.” “Our longstanding partnership with Clean Energy helps us deliver on our mission to provide affordable and sustainable transportation, while creating healthier, more livable communities. Further, our adoption of renewable natural gas aligns with our strategic goal to implement a full zero-emissions fleet by 2030,” said Ed King, director, Santa Monica Department of Transportation. Clean Energy has been contracted by Gold Coast Transit to maintain its station in Oxnard, CA which uses an estimated 4 million gallons of RNG for 82 transit buses. Channel Island Dairy Farms has signed a contract for an estimated 300,000 gallons of RNG for heavy-duty trucks operating in the Corcoran, CA area. The Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority has signed a maintenance agreement with Clean Energy for its Birmingham, AL station. The station is expected to use an anticipated 2 million gallons of fuel for 186 transit buses. The City of Tucson has signed a maintenance agreement with Clean Energy to support its fleet operations. The station uses an anticipated 2 million gallons of fuel to power 150 transit buses and refuse trucks. Valley Regional Transit in Boise, ID has inked a maintenance agreement with Clean Energy. The station uses an expected 1.7 million gallons of fuel to power its fleet of 30 transit buses. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ has signed an agreement with Clean Energy to maintain its station. The station is anticipated to provide 1.5 million gallons of fuel for 30 park shuttle buses. Sweeping Corporation of America, the nation's largest power sweeping company, has signed a contract for a projected 250,000 gallons of fuel to power 78 trucks in Northern and Southern California. Campbell’s Trucking Company in Tacoma, WA has signed a fueling deal for an expected 300,000 gallons of fuel for 15 heavy-duty trucks. About Clean Energy Clean Energy Fuels Corp. is the country’s largest provider of the cleanest fuel for the transportation market. Our mission is to decarbonize transportation through the development and delivery of renewable natural gas (RNG), a sustainable fuel derived from organic waste. Clean Energy allows thousands of vehicles, from airport shuttles to city buses to waste and heavy-duty trucks, to reduce their amount of climate-harming greenhouse gas. We operate a vast network of fueling stations across the U.S. and Canada.

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Solar+Storage, Energy

Intersect Power Achieves Commercial Operation of 310 MWp Athos III Solar Project in CA

Intersect Power, LLC | January 13, 2023

Intersect Power, LLC announced that its Athos III solar project in Riverside County, California, will start making money on December 22, 2022. The Athos III solar project was constructed by union workers, with solar panels, batteries, and steel piles made in America. This means that it is expected to comply with the domestic content and prevailing wage requirements of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The Athos III solar project (Blythe Mesa Solar II) is generating 224 MWac/310 MWp of dependable solar energy to power about 94,000 households and features 448 MWh of co-located storage. Sheldon Kimber, Intersect Power CEO, stated, "Today marks a major milestone for the Intersect Power team and our impact as a clean energy developer, owner, and operator." Source – Cision PR Newswire Intersect Power's Athos III solar project is part of its near-term portfolio, which includes 2.2 GW of solar photovoltaic and 1.4 GWh of co-located storage. The majority of the portfolio will go live in 2023. As a result, the Athos III solar project generated 500 peak union positions. Funding for the project's operations and construction was secured as part of the expanded portfolio financing announced in November 2022, when Intersect Power closed on commitments from critical financial institutions and investors for portfolio-level term loans, tax equity, and construction finance. HPS Investment Partners provided the portfolio term debt. The tax equity was delivered by Morgan Stanley Renewables Inc. The construction debt was provided by coordinating Lead Arrangers Santander Corporate & Investment Banking and MUFG. Along with Cobank, Helaba, KeyBanc Capital Markets, and Nord LB as joint lead arrangers. About Intersect Power Intersect Power is a clean energy firm that provides retail and wholesale energy markets with innovative and scalable low-carbon solutions. The corporation produces some of the world's most significant clean energy resources, supplying North American clients with low-carbon power, fuels, and related products. Intersect Power's base portfolio consists of 2.2 GW of solar PV and 1.4 GWh of co-located storage that are either under development or in service. The company's business model calls for expanding grid-connected renewables and large-scale clean energy assets like green hydrogen.

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