Batteries are reshaping power systems in the US and China, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuel-powered peaker plants. California's battery fleet set a new record by discharging 11.2 GW during peak demand, while China plans to significantly increase battery storage capacity and reduce natural gas use by 70% by 2035. The US has seen rapid growth in battery storage, with federal policies and incentives supporting the transition away from peakers. Experts suggest that prioritizing battery storage over fossil peaker plants can accelerate clean energy goals, establish market mechanisms, and solidify global leadership in the industry. By shifting to battery storage, both countries can achieve a clean and flexible grid while reducing pollution and dependence on fossil fuels.
Category: Other Energy
Cut Emissions:
– Cut Fugitive Emissions
-
America’s new power barons: Who will rule the AI-grade megawatt megasector?
The article discusses the shift towards using a combination of nuclear, natural gas, and solar energy to power data centers in the U.S. as demand for electricity from AI and data centers is expected to triple by 2030. The Department of Energy is scaling back wind and solar grant programs, favoring natural gas as a reliable energy source for these facilities. Developers are reviving natural gas projects and pairing them with solar and storage to meet the demand for reliable and clean energy. The article also highlights the practical obstacles facing the energy transition, such as transmission bottlenecks and permitting delays, emphasizing the importance of delivering firm, scalable, low-carbon power. Private capital is seen as a catalyst for building micro-grids at hyperscale, with a focus on hybrid-power models combining gas, renewables, and storage, as companies aim to master the integration of different energy sources to become the new power leaders in the AI age.
https://www.utilitydive.com/news/ai-data-center-power-novus/805494/
-
Q&A: What UK’s record auction for offshore wind means for bills and clean power by 2030
The UK's latest auction for renewable energy projects saw a record-breaking amount of new offshore wind capacity secured, with 8.4GW of projects winning contracts. Prices for offshore wind rose by around 10% since the previous round, but analysis suggests it will be "cost neutral" for consumers due to lower wholesale costs. The government welcomed the results, stating it puts the country on track to reach its 2030 clean power targets and create jobs. The auction results were split into two parts, with fixed-foundation and floating offshore wind projects securing contracts. This marks the biggest ever offshore wind auction in Europe, with enough capacity to power over 12 million homes. The recent auction results for offshore wind projects are seen as positive for meeting clean power targets by 2030, with the government taking steps to support the expansion of renewable energy as part of a larger strategy to achieve ambitious clean power goals.
-
Plug-in solar gains momentum as states confront energy costs
Several states in the U.S. are exploring legislation to support plug-in solar energy systems, also known as balcony solar, which have been successful in Germany. This green technology is being tested and certified for use in American homes, offering a cost-effective solution for rising electricity costs. The bipartisan opportunity for climate advocates in the U.S. comes at a time when subsidies for other renewable energy options have been repealed under the current administration. This shift towards plug-in solar could be a significant step towards achieving climate solutions and reducing carbon emissions.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/plug-in-solar-gains-momentum-as-states-confront-energy-costs/
-
Vattenfall firms FID on Germany’s largest offshore wind cluster
Vattenfall has announced the final investment decision for the 1.6GW Nordlicht offshore wind cluster in the German North Sea, marking it as the largest offshore wind project in the country. This decision highlights the continued growth and investment in renewable energy sources, particularly offshore wind, as a key solution to combatting climate change. The project is expected to significantly contribute to Germany's renewable energy goals and reduce carbon emissions, showcasing the importance of scaling up offshore wind projects as part of the transition to a more sustainable energy system. This development underscores the potential for offshore wind to play a crucial role in achieving climate targets and accelerating the shift towards a cleaner, greener future.
-
World-first 560C Carnot battery unveiled as SPIC launches ultra-high-temperature heat storage
Chinese state-owned power group SPIC has introduced the world's first ultra-high-temperature heat-pump energy storage system, known as "Chuno" or the "Carnot battery." This innovative technology offers a long-duration energy storage solution that converts electricity into stored heat and cold, providing an alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries and compressed air energy storage. Developed by SPIC's Central Research Institute, the pilot system has been successfully tested with seven full charge-discharge cycles at a rating of 1 MW/4 MWh. Climate solutions experts can look to this breakthrough as a promising advancement in sustainable energy storage solutions.
-
Scatec secures PPA for Africa’s largest solar-plus-storage project
Norwegian renewables developer Scatec ASA has signed a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company for a 1.95 GW solar and 3.9 GWh battery energy storage project in Egypt. This project, Scatec's largest investment to date, will provide sustainable, around-the-clock power and grid stabilizing services, supporting Egypt's energy transition and economic development. The integrated solar-plus-storage system is expected to deliver 6 TWh of energy annually, making it the largest solar and battery energy storage installation in Africa. Scatec plans to act as the lead developer and is seeking additional equity partners for the project, which is anticipated to reach financial close in the second half of the year.
-
Masdar secures PPA for Quipungo Solar PV project in Angola
Masdar has signed a power purchase agreement for a 150MW solar project in Angola, as part of a larger 500MW renewable energy initiative. The project aims to increase generation capacity, provide electricity to 300,000 homes, and create over 2,000 jobs, aligning with Angola's national energy plans. The agreement was finalized during the IRENA General Assembly, showcasing a commitment to translating energy goals into tangible projects. Masdar's ambitious target is to reach a portfolio capacity of 100GW by the end of the decade, contributing significantly to global efforts in advancing renewable energy solutions.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/masdar-ppa-quipungo-solar-pv/
-
New WindEurope CEO is ex-energy minister Van der Straeten: ‘industry being held back’
WindEurope has appointed Tinne Van der Straeten, former Belgian energy minister, as its new CEO at a critical moment for the wind industry in Europe. This leadership change signals a focus on advancing climate solutions and renewable energy initiatives within the region. Van der Straeten's experience in energy policy and commitment to sustainability will likely drive innovation and growth in the wind sector, contributing to Europe's transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. Climate solutions experts should keep a close eye on WindEurope's strategic direction under Van der Straeten's leadership to stay informed on key developments in the wind industry.
-
Massive 2 GW wind, solar and battery project lands all state planning approvals in breathtaking four months
The Tathra project in Western Australia, consisting of 140 wind turbines and a 500 MW solar farm, has received state planning approval with minimal conditions. The environmental regulator waived the wind element through, recommending mitigation efforts to address impacts on threatened flora and fauna. Synergy, the developer, plans to refer the project to the federal environmental process before starting construction. Additionally, Synergy is adding a MWh battery at Collie, increasing their total big battery capacity to over 800 MW and nearly 3,200 MWh, contributing to clean energy solutions in their efforts to replace coal power stations with renewable energy sources.