Mux Weekly Newsletter - 4th Edition

Greetings, Earth Champions!

Welcome to the fourth edition of “Renewable Insights Weekly”—your compass in the ever-evolving world of sustainable energy. As we embark on this eco-adventure, we’ll unveil the latest discoveries in wind turbines, solar panels, hydrogen cells, and energy storage solutions.

Stay curious, stay green, and let’s ride the renewable wave together!

Read previous editions here: https://muxenergy.beehiiv.com/

Table of Contents

• Wind Power Wonders

• Solar Spotlight

• Hydrogen Horizons

• Energy Storage Excellence

As the winds of change sweep the globe, we’re here to keep you informed, inspired, and energized. We’ve searched the internet, navigated through the winds, and captured the latest news about wind energy. From cutting-edge innovations to sustainable solutions, let’s ride the wind together.

1. Made in Europe doesn't necessarily mean EU; Turkey may be very important:

   Synopsis: By utilizing its robust manufacturing infrastructure and highly qualified labor force, Turkey hopes to become a major provider of wind energy to Europe. Reducing China's hegemony in the supply chain is another goal. Turkey aspires to be a leader in wind energy within Europe, even if it emphasizes that being "Made in Europe" includes non-EU nations. Turkey is prepared to help by producing towers, blades, and rare earth minerals. Cooperation among European nations is essential.

2. Politicians Talk About China's Danger to Wind Energy:

   Synopsis: Since 90% of the supply of solar panels now originates from China, we don't want to repeat the mistakes we made in the solar supply chain. We must quicken the momentum of the numerous industrial facets across Europe that are currently part of the Wind Supply Chain. Government agencies must make significant investments and provide incentives to guarantee that Europe does not become a victim of energy dependency.

3. Spanish Wind Charter:

   Synopsis: Aiming to maximize social and economic benefits while accelerating wind energy expansion in Spain, the Spanish Wind Charter was signed during WindEurope 2024 in Bilbao. Better planning, enhanced auction design, industry cooperation, stability, keeping an eye on trade practices, and supporting homegrown manufacturing are important factors. Spain has committed to supporting the wind industry and promoting good auction design in line with the European Wind Power Package.

4. Coordinated Grid Operation are fundemental:

   Synopsis: Transmission dependability is crucial for Sustained Grid Operation and the increasing amount of renewable energy produced. The financial aspects of it will also be significant, requiring backing from institutions and governmental agencies.

5. Further topics :

   Synopsis:  Iberdola intends to construct a sizable offshore wind farm in Japan; Nordex acquires an 800 MW onshore wind farm from RWE; the outlook for the climate and job security is favorable; and much more has transpired in Wind Europe 2024. The official media partner is Recharge News; visit the link to read more engaging content.

1. Wind Woes Persist For Texas Power System in 2024

• Synopsis: In January 2024, Texas faced a significant challenge in its power system due to a 22% drop in wind-generated electricity compared to the same month in 2023. Low wind speeds were the primary culprit behind this decline, which hindered output across the state’s main power grid. As Texas grapples with energy supply issues, policymakers and stakeholders must address the impact of weather conditions on renewable energy sources. Economic Times

  

  22% drop in wind-generated electricity compared to the same month in 2023

2. Wales Harnesses Wind Power for Communities and Economy

• Synopsis: On March 1, 2024, the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, engaged in a pivotal discussion with representatives from the European wind industry in Brussels. The focus? Maximizing Wales’ wind resources and unlocking their potential for local communities and economic growth. Wind Europe

  Key Points:

• Current State: Wales boasts 1.2 GW of onshore wind and has much more under development. Additionally, it possesses 730 MW of offshore wind.

• Ambitious Goals: The Welsh Government aims for renewables to provide 100% of Wales’ electricity by 2035. Currently, 70% of Welsh renewable electricity is generated from wind.

• Community Benefits: Wind energy offers clean power and enriches local communities. Fueled by wind farms, community funds contribute about £6.5 million annually to those near these installations. Some even benefit from co-ownership models.

• Offshore Wind: The potential of offshore wind in Wales is particularly promising. The Celtic Sea is set to witness the development of 4.5 GW of floating wind by 2035. This presents significant opportunities for investment and job creation.

• Infrastructure Challenges: To achieve this ambitious vision, Wales must address challenges related to logistics, infrastructure, and consenting authorities. Strong investment and resourcing are essential.

• European Collaboration: The European wind industry is committed to partnering with the Welsh Government to transform Wales into a wind energy powerhouse.

3. MENA Region Witnesses 400% Annual Surge in Renewable Energy Capacity

• Synopsis: The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has experienced remarkable growth, with a surge of 292 gigawatts in prospective renewable energy capacity. This represents a 400% year-over-year increase since 2022. The report highlights the region’s commitment to clean and sustainable solutions, with over 60% of projects dedicated to green hydrogen production. However, despite this progress, operational renewables capacity in MENA still accounts for less than 25% of South America achieved during the same period. To achieve its goal of decarbonizing the electricity sector entirely by 2050, MENA needs to add 19 GW of wind and solar capacity annually.

4. An Encouraging Swell in Offshore Wind Deployment:

America’s First Commercial-Scale Offshore Wind Farm Begins Operation

• Synopsis: The waters off Rhode Island now host America’s inaugural fully built, commercial-scale offshore wind farm. South Fork Wind, a joint venture by Ørsted and Eversource, features 12 operational turbines that will generate clean power, enough to supply 70,000 homes on Long Island. Over the next 25 years, this project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by an average of 6 million tons annually—equivalent to the emissions from 60,000 cars.

Positive Momentum: Vineyard Wind Joins the Fleet

• Synopsis: Vineyard Wind, located less than 30 miles east of the South Fork development, has recently begun delivering power to the New England grid. With five operational turbines (out of a planned 62), Vineyard Wind provides 68 megawatts of electricity-generating capacity—sufficient to power 30,000 Massachusetts homes. This achievement adds to the surge in offshore wind momentum along the northeastern coast.

New York’s Ambitious Offshore Wind Projects

• Synopsis: The State of New York has selected contract bids for two massive offshore wind projects: Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind 1. With a combined generating capacity of more than seven times the current energy production from all existing offshore wind farms in the region, these projects signal a new phase in the history of offshore wind along the Northeastern coast. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that America’s coastal waters could support over 4,000 gigawatts of annual energy production from offshore wind—three times our current electricity consumption. US Wind Outlook

In the world of wind enthusiasts, life mimics a turbine: sometimes turbulent, often humming with purpose, and forever harnessing the invisible currents of existence

1. IRS Expands Energy Community Qualifications for Clean Energy Tax Credits

• Synopsis: The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have released crucial guidance regarding the bonus tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This guidance specifically pertains to clean energy projects in communities with a history of fossil fuel extraction or production. By clarifying what constitutes an “energy community,” the IRS aims to drive investments in new clean power, create jobs, and lower utility bills. Solar Power World

2. SunPower Faces Nasdaq Non-Compliance Notice Amid Late Filing Concerns

• Synopsis: SunPower, a leading residential solar technology and energy services provider, recently received a notice from Nasdaq indicating non-compliance with a listing rule. The specific rule in question (Nasdaq Listing Rule 5250 © (1)) requires timely filing of all required periodic financial reports with the SEC. The trigger for this notice was SunPower’s delay in filing its Form 10-K. While the notice has no immediate impact on the company’s stock listing or trading, SunPower must submit a plan to regain compliance within 60 calendar days. Nasdaq may grant an extension of up to 180 calendar days from the Form 10-K due date (until September 11, 2024) for the company to rectify the situation. SunPower has been navigating debt challenges and a recent CEO shakeup, making this notice an additional hurdle for the company. Renewable Energy World

3. California Approves Use of DER Schedules to Avoid Interconnection Upgrades

• Synopsis: The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has taken a groundbreaking step in advancing the integration of renewable energy systems into the electric grid. By approving the use of Limited Generation Profiles (LGPs), California aims to reduce costly infrastructure upgrades and facilitate higher levels of renewables on the grid. This innovative approach allows distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar PV and energy storage to operate flexibly in alignment with grid conditions. Solar Power World

4. Sodium-ion Batteries: A Promising Alternative to Lithium

• Synopsis: While lithium-ion battery prices continue to fluctuate, the interest in sodium-ion (Na-ion) energy storage remains strong. With global cell manufacturing capacity ramping up, the question arises: Can this promising technology tip the scales on supply and demand? We explore the advantages of sodium-ion batteries, including safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental credentials. As established battery manufacturers and newcomers race to develop a viable alternative to lithium-ion, sodium-ion technology emerges as a contender. PV-Magazine

5. Delhi Solar Policy 2023: Zero Bills for Consumers with Over 400 Units

• Synopsis: The Arvind Kejriwal government has taken a significant step by notifying the Delhi Solar Policy, 2023. Under this policy, consumers using more than 400 units per month can now install rooftop solar panels and enjoy zero electricity bills. For commercial users, the power bills will be halved if they opt for rooftop solar plants. The policy aims to reduce pollution, promote clean energy, and contribute to Delhi’s sustainable future. With a budget of Rs 570 crores, the government plans to incentivize solar panel installers and achieve a 50% reliance on solar energy by 2027. Business Standard.

In the quiet embrace of dawn’s golden kiss, The sun unfurls its radiant tapestry, A cosmic dance, a celestial bliss, Solar notes weaving through eternity.

Hydrogen where Science Meets Magic: Join us on a journey where fuel cells weave spells, rainbows illuminate progress, and the cosmic unicorn of energy takes centre stage.

1. US Clean Ammonia to Fuel Japan’s Industries: Idemitsu, Mitsubishi, and Proman Collaborate

• Synopsis: CCS-based ammonia, produced in the USA through a joint effort by Idemitsu Kosan, Mitsubishi Corporation, and Proman, is set to make its way to the Japanese market by 2030. This sustainable ammonia will be utilized across multiple sectors, with shipping facilitated via the Namikata and Tokuyama ammonia bunkering terminals. Ammonia Energy
  

  

  Clean ammonia produced from Lake Charles in the USA will be shipped to Japan via the Namikata and Tokuyama ammonia bunkering terminals for use in multiple sectors. Source: Idemitsu Kosan.

2. France’s SNCF Orders 12 Dual-Mode Electric-Hydrogen Trains for Green Rail Revolution

• Synopsis: SNCF Voyageurs orders 12 electric-hydrogen trains to replace diesel units. These Régiolis H2 trains aim for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Energy News

3. Scaling Up: Accelerating Green Hydrogen Production Amidst Challenges

• Synopsis: Renewable power deployments must speed up to support near-term hydrogen production targets, according to Jens Wulff, Managing Director at Neuman & Esser Germany. In an exclusive H2 View webinar, he emphasized the urgency of scaling up projects to meet ambitious green hydrogen goals. h2-view

4. West Virginia Engineers Pave the Way for Affordable Clean Hydrogen Production

• Synopsis: West Virginia University (WVU) engineers have secured substantial federal support for research initiatives to reduce clean hydrogen costs drastically. With three U.S. Department of Energy grants totalling $15.8 million, these projects align with the ambitious “Hydrogen Shot” goal of achieving hydrogen production costs as low as $1 per kilogram. The focus is on enhancing the manufacturing and design of the “solid oxide electrolysis cell” (SOEC), which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable sources. Innovations include microwave-assisted SOEC manufacturing and ultrafast high-temperature sintering, both aimed at efficiency improvements and cost reduction. Fuelcellsworks

5. Green Ammonia to Revolutionize Global Shipping: Top Regional Ports Targeted for $2 Trillion Investment

• Synopsis: New research from Oxford reveals that over 60% of global shipping fuel demands can be met by renewable ammonia by 2050. The key lies in strategically targeting the top 10 regional ports, where a $2 trillion investment will pave the way for a sustainable maritime future. This shift will replace oil dependence with a more regionalized industry, positioning green ammonia production near the equator and efficiently transporting it to major shipping hubs. Ammonia Energy

Ignite the Future: Remember that every hydrogen molecule holds the promise of a cleaner, brighter world. Until next time, keep dreaming of a universe where science and magic intertwine

Prepare to embark on a wild ride through the energetic cosmos of storage systems, where excitement reigns supreme. Rev up those energy engines and dive headfirst into a world where storage and thrill collide!

1. US Energy Storage Market Shatters Records in Q4 2023” Synopsis

• Synopsis: The US energy storage industry achieved unprecedented growth, deploying 4,236 megawatts (MW) in Q4 2023, marking a 100% increase from the previous quarter. Grid-scale installations exceeded 3 gigawatts (GW) for the first time, signaling a booming sector. Energy-Storage

2. Constellation Energy Pioneers US Corporate Green Bond for Nuclear Energy

• Synopsis: Constellation Energy has issued a $900 million, 30-year green bond - the first of its kind in the United States—to finance nuclear power projects, maintenance, and life extensions. The bond will also support clean hydrogen production, energy storage systems, wind repowering, and carbon-free energy solutions for commercial customers. This move underscores the growing consensus that nuclear power plays a crucial role in the energy transition, and Constellation remains a top producer of carbon-free electricity in the US. Utilitydive

3. Atlas Renewable Energy Signs 200 MW PPA for Chilean Battery Energy Storage System

• Synopsis: Atlas Renewable Energy, a leading independent power producer (IPP) in Latin America, has inked a significant 200 megawatt (MW) PPA for a battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Chile. This strategic move reinforces Atlas’ commitment to sustainable energy solutions and strengthens its position as a key player in the region’s renewable energy landscape. Renews

4. Arizona Breaks Records with Largest Grid Battery Installations

• Synopsis: Arizona is witnessing a surge in grid battery installations. NextEra Energy Resources is activating its Sonoran Solar Energy Center—a 260 megawatt (MW) solar project paired with a one gigawatt-hour (GWh) storage system. This installation, controlled by the utility Salt River Project, claims the title of the largest grid battery in the state. Notably, another 1 GWh battery project, the Sierra Estrella, is under construction by Developer Plus Power and is set to join the grid this summer. These record-breaking batteries enhance grid flexibility, improve efficiency, and support clean energy goals in the region Canarymedia

5. US Energy Storage Sector Achieves Record Growth in Q4 2023

• Synopsis: The US energy storage industry deployed an astounding 4,200 megawatts (MW) or 12,400 megawatt-hours (MWh) of new battery storage capacity in the last three months of 2023. This achievement doubled the previous record set in Q3 2023, driven by eased supply chain challenges and declining system prices. Grid-scale installations accounted for most of this capacity, with residential deployments following closely. Overall, the US added over 8,700 MW of battery storage in 2023, signalling a robust trajectory for the sector Argusmedia

Behold the majestic battery, the unsung hero of our energy tales! Let's charge up our laughter cells and embrace a world of harmonizing storage systems and sparkles.

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Best Regards,
Team Mux