Climate solutions experts are seeing a surge in hydrogen-powered initiatives worldwide, with companies like JCB, Syntholene, and Ohmium International leading the way in developing sustainable energy solutions. From hydrogen buses in Italy to large-scale electrolyzer projects in Rotterdam, the shift towards green hydrogen is gaining momentum. Collaborations between companies like Lhyfe and Strabag in Germany and InSolare Energy in India are further driving the adoption of hydrogen technology. Additionally, the University of Canterbury in New Zealand joining Hydrogen Europe Research signifies a growing global network of universities and research organizations dedicated to advancing climate solutions.
Tag: New Zealand
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“World first” power-beaming breakthrough, as laser tech wirelessly electrifies robot for 24 hours
A New Zealand-founded, Australia-based company, Aquila Earth, has set two world records by powering a moving warehouse robot for 24 hours straight using a laser to beam electricity through space via infrared light. The laser delivered a steady 4 kilowatts of wireless electricity to the robot, allowing it to travel 25 kilometers on light alone. Aquila Earth's CEO, Ruby Jones, envisions a future where drones and robots can be powered indefinitely without relying on battery technology. The company's power beaming technology has the potential for commercialization, offering a new solution for autonomous machines to operate continuously without the need for frequent recharging. Aquila is also working on making laser technology for sending and receiving electricity more economically feasible, with plans to target commercial laser power by 2027 through partnerships with drone companies aiming for long-lasting flights.
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Offshore wind installation tech promises to change logistics game, cut reliance on deep-water ports
Feederdock, a next-generation offshore wind installation solution developed by ONP Management and Renewable Resources International, splits installation across two vessels to accommodate turbines over 25 MW and foundations weighing 2,800 tonnes. This technology eliminates the need for deep-water ports, reducing constraints on offshore wind deployment, shortening construction schedules, and delivering cost savings. Energy Estate is supporting Feederdock's entry into the Australian and New Zealand markets, emphasizing the importance of creating an ecosystem for the industry to thrive and avoiding international vessel scarcity. A holistic approach is needed to support offshore wind projects, with the opportunity to subscribe to a daily newsletter for the latest clean energy news.
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Foresight to acquire NZ Clean Energy platform
Foresight Group has acquired NZ Clean Energy in New Zealand, investing over A$500m in late-stage solar projects starting in 2026 and 2027. The acquisition provides a platform for developing solar and battery energy storage projects, with a pipeline exceeding 2GW across 15 locations in New Zealand. This move aligns with the country's transition towards low-emission energy solutions, driven by increased electricity demand and the growth of electric vehicles and data centers. Foresight aims to support decarbonization efforts and create a diversified renewable energy portfolio in the region.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/foresight-to-acquire-nz-clean-energy-platform/
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New modelling shows renewable electricity can meet NZ future demand
The government's plan to import LNG for energy security in New Zealand is questioned due to price volatility and the country's goal of achieving 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030. Analysis shows that investing in renewable energy generation and storage systems can meet future demand and exceed it, with offshore wind projects reducing the need for hydro electricity generation. The article discusses the use of excess grid power for pumped hydro storage and highlights the need for additional long-term storage capacity, such as the proposed pumped-hydro project at Lake Onslow. The country already has a regulatory roadmap for battery systems, with significant renewable generation and battery storage projects in development, suggesting that the electricity sector may not actually need the new LNG terminal infrastructure. Storage capacity, both short-term and long-term, is crucial for stabilizing a 100% renewable grid.
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Major capital raise seeks $450 million to “lead New Zealand’s renewable energy future”
Contact Energy in New Zealand is raising $NZ525 million to accelerate its renewable energy development plans, with a focus on infrastructure to support the country's growing electricity demand. The company's recent acquisition of Manawa Energy has added hydroelectric and geothermal stations, a grid-scale battery, and a solar farm to their portfolio. Contact Energy will be constructing a 200 MW/400 MWh battery and a 150 MW solar farm, with ongoing development of other renewable projects. This capital raise will fund further geothermal and solar projects, aligning with efforts to combat climate change and transition to cleaner energy sources for a more renewable, resilient, and affordable energy future.
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Vestas lands turbine order for landmark wind and green hydrogen refuelling network in New Zealand
New Zealand's Kapuni green hydrogen project has reached financial close and ordered four 6.4 MW wind turbines from Vestas, integrating wind energy, renewable electricity supply, and green hydrogen production at scale. The project includes a 25.6 MW wind farm and a 5 MW hydrogen electrolyser, supporting a national green hydrogen refuelling network. Located in Taranaki, the project will supply renewable electricity to the national grid and create economic opportunities through decarbonizing industry and building low-emissions energy systems. This initiative showcases a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions and demonstrates the potential for green hydrogen to play a key role in reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to a cleaner energy future.
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The Hydrogen Stream: Verna completes first two hydrogen pilot wells in Canada
Vema Hydrogen has completed two pilot hydrogen wells in Quebec, Canada, while Advait Greenergy and InSolare Energy are progressing on hydrogen projects in India. Canada and South Korea are discussing potential collaboration in auto manufacturing for Hyundai/Kia in Canada, with a focus on hydrogen energy. The University of Cagliari and the Indian Institute of Technology are collaborating on a research project on hydrogen energy systems. Hiringa Energy has reached Financial Close on the Kapuni Project in New Zealand, integrating wind, industrial renewable electricity supply, and green hydrogen production at scale. These developments highlight the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Policy support and investment in renewable energy technologies are crucial to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels and meet global electricity demand with clean energy solutions.