The Week in Cleantech: 2 July 2023

A number of high-profile mergers and acquisitions in the renewable energy sector were announced last week. JP Morgan Asset Management-owned companies, Renantis and Ventient Energy, are merging to create an independent power producer. General Motors acquired an Israeli battery software startup ALGOLiON to enhance battery health in GM's EVs, and the European Commission approved Chevron's takeover of Renewable Energy Group. Meanwhile, Offshore Wind Consultants is going to acquire Denmark's Delta Wind Partners to expand consultancy for offshore wind projects.

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Sealhyfe offshore platform begins producing green hydrogen in France after successful testing phase. The platform, capable of producing 400 kilograms of hydrogen per day, will now undergo further offshore-specific tests. (Offshore WIND and 17 other sources)

Tata Power invites bids for 225 MW wind-solar hybrid power projects, with additional capacity option. Bidders must meet financial criteria and use approved technologies, while maintaining high capacity utilization factor. (Mercom India and 6 other sources)

Australia approves $34 million hydrogen plant to cut carbon emissions and boost renewable energy. The 10 MW electrolyser in Victoria will blend green hydrogen into gas networks, supplying 40,000 homes. (ESG News and 6 other sources)

Spain raises 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target to 32%, aims for massive solar and wind deployment. Spain's revised energy plan targets 160GW of renewable generation and 32GW of wind by 2030. (Recharge and 5 other sources)

India takes steps towards green hydrogen production with new Production Linked Incentive schemes. With a budget of Rs 13,050 crore for green hydrogen production and Rs 4,440 crore for electrolyser manufacturing, these schemes aim to boost India's clean energy transition. (ET EnergyWorld and 5 other sources)

Ramboll wins multi-million contract to develop electrical infrastructure for Denmark's offshore energy island. The project will employ 35 workers and be one of the world's largest offshore electrical infrastructure projects. (Offshore WIND and 4 other sources)

US Begins Environmental Review of Beacon Wind Project, Targeting 2.4 GW Capacity. The US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has initiated the environmental review for the Beacon Wind project, a joint venture between Equinor and BP, proposing two wind farms with a total capacity of 2,430 MW offshore Massachusetts. (Renewables Now and 4 other sources)

Modvion is constructing the world's tallest wooden wind turbine tower in Sweden, using laminated veneer lumber. The 105-meter tower will house a 2-MW wind turbine and is expected to be operational by year-end, offering cost-efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)

Enviva Inc., the world's leading producer of sustainably sourced woody biomass, has started construction on its Epes plant in Sumter County, Alabama. The plant, expected to be operational by mid-2024, will support jobs and contribute to the local economy. (Biomass Magazine and 3 other sources)

Gatwick Airport introduces 20 hydrogen buses, with plans for 34 more, revolutionizing transportation in the area. The zero-emission buses improve air quality, reduce environmental impact, and align with sustainability goals. (Energy News and 3 other sources)

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General Motors unveils bidirectional EV-to-home charging hardware, allowing EVs to serve as backup power sources. The Ultium Home V2H Bundle includes an AC home charger and an Enablement Kit for inverter and battery integration. (Green Car Reports and 5 other sources)

Tesla's refreshed Model 3 is rumored to feature CATL's new M3P LFP cells, resulting in a longer range. CATL's new battery cell is expected to increase energy density and reduce costs, enabling a ~6 kWh boost in Tesla's battery pack for extended range. (Elektrek and 4 other sources)

Toyota-backed Joby Aviation receives FAA certification for its electric aircraft, set to deliver to the US Air Force. The eVTOL has a top speed of 200 mph and a range of 150 miles. (Electrive and 3 other sources)

Hyundai Ioniq 6 named car and driver's 2023 EV of the year, adding to its list of accolades. The sedan impressed with its E-GMP platform, range of up to 361 miles, and solid structure. (InsideEVs and 2 other sources)

XPeng Motors unveils G6, its latest model positioned as a rival to Tesla Model Y. With over 35,000 pre-orders, XPeng aims to outperform Tesla by offering more features at a lower price. (EVMagz and 2 other sources)

Denmark's R&D Test Systems delivers new test bench for longer wind turbine blades to Massachusetts. The upgraded equipment allows for more realistic testing and shorter test times. (Offshore WIND and 2 other sources)

CSC Motorcycles introduces the CSC ES5, an affordable electric scooter with better performance than its competitors. Priced at $4,995, it offers a top speed of 52.8 mph, a range of 68 miles, and features such as keyless start and a built-in dash camera. (Elektrek and 1 other source)

Toyota unveils second-generation C-HR: striking design, enhanced performance, and eco-friendly powertrains. The 2024 C-HR showcases a distinctive departure from its predecessor, offering a sleeker look, advanced features, and hybrid powertrains for the European market. (EVMagz and 1 other source)

Solinftec launches Solix AG robotic platform in American idwest, revolutionizing farming practices. The innovative technology targets and eliminates weeds, reducing herbicide application by up to 97%. (iGrow News and 1 other source)

General Motors reveals towing and payload figures for 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV WT, with a higher-than-expected base price. The fleet-oriented model will have a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,440 pounds, similar to the high-end RST model. (Green Car Reports and 1 other source)

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Electrify America and Blink will add NACS connectors to their EV chargers, allowing Tesla drivers to charge without adapters. Electrify America aims to offer NACS connectors by 2025, expanding options for non-Tesla EV drivers. (Elektrek and 42 other sources)

Seaway7 secures major contract for UK's East Anglia 3 offshore wind farm development. Oslo-based Seaway7 will transport and install foundations and cables for the 1.4GW project. (Recharge and 7 other sources)

Lucid's EV tech deal with Aston Martin marks the beginning of its supply business, providing Aston with Lucid's powertrain technology. The partnership could generate a significant revenue source for Lucid as it expands its reach and aims to introduce more mass-market EVs. (Elektrek and 6 other sources)

Factorial Energy partners with Young Poong for lithium-metal recycling in solid-state batteries. The collaboration aims to establish a circular economy and promote sustainable recycling in the growing solid-state segment. (EVMagz and 5 other sources)

GM expands North American EV battery supply chain with new deal and loan. General Motors (GM) partners with Element 25 to boost manganese sulfate production for EV batteries, aiding GM's goal of producing over one million EVs in North America by 2025. (Elektrek and 4 other sources)

DORIS secures FEED contract for Gray Whale 3 offshore wind farm in South Korea. The contract includes full electrical and communications system, cabling, and offshore substation. (Offshore WIND and 3 other sources)

Electrify America and Lyft team up to offer discounted charging for Lyft drivers with electric vehicles. Active and eligible drivers will receive tiered discounts on Electrify America Pass pricing for DC Fast charging at all stations. (Green Car Congress and 3 other sources)

Leeward Renewable Energy and Southern California Edison sign a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement for a 126MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in California. The Antelope Valley BESS aims to enhance grid resiliency, store clean energy, and power over 100,000 households for up to four hours. (NS Energy and 3 other sources)

Gen2 Energy and Provaris collaborate on large-scale European hydrogen supply chain, conducting a prefeasibility study for compressed green hydrogen production in Norway and its shipment to European ports. The agreement allows for potential collaboration with other parties involved in the project. (H2 View and 3 other sources)

BASF and Yara collaborate on low-carbon blue ammonia facility with carbon capture in the US Gulf Coast region. The project aims to capture and store 95% of CO2 emissions, reducing the carbon footprint of ammonia-based products. (Green Car Congress and 3 other sources)

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OMV Petrom to acquire 710 MW photovoltaic projects in Romania, boosting renewable energy capacity. The Helios 1 cluster will power 280,000 Romanian households and support OMV Petrom's goal of 1 GW renewables capacity by 2030. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)

JP Morgan Asset Management-owned companies, Renantis and Ventient Energy, are merging to create an independent power producer with a 4.2 GW capacity and 18 GW pipeline. The merger will form a new organization led by Renantis' CEO, focusing on various renewable energy projects. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)

Swiss energy company BKW AG acquires three wind projects in Sweden, nearing its 1 GW renewable capacity goal by 2026. The deal includes 19 wind turbines producing 330 GWh annually and expands BKW's presence in Scandinavia. (Renewables Now and 2 other sources)

Matrix Renewables acquires 284 MW solar project in Texas from OCI Solar Power. The Stillhouse Solar Project is set to begin construction in 2024. (Renewables Now and 2 other sources)

Sandton Capital Partners acquires Vindara, revolutionizing vertical indoor farming with customized seeds. Vindara's innovative breeding process reduces seed development time to 12-18 months, enhancing profitability for indoor farmers. (iGrow News and 1 other source)

General Motors (GM) has acquired ALGOLiON, an Israeli battery software startup, to enhance battery health in GM's EVs. The deal aims to bring early EV battery hazard detection to millions of GM customers worldwide. (Elektrek and 1 other source)

AMPYR Solar Europe acquires 390-MWp UK solar and battery storage portfolio from Tyler Hill. Construction to begin in 2024, discussions with off-takers underway. (Renewables Now and 1 other source)

Casterra Ag signs $9.1 million deal to sell castor seeds for biofuel production in Africa. Casterra's high-yield castor varieties can support 1.5% of the global demand for non-fossil oil. (Green Car Congress)

The European Commission has given the green light to Chevron's takeover of Renewable Energy Group, as there are minimal overlaps between their activities and no impact on the European Economic Area. (Biofuels International)

Offshore Wind Consultants acquires Denmark's Delta Wind Partners to expand technical offerings in wind turbines and consultancy for offshore wind projects. The acquisition will also support Denmark's renewable energy targets and provide access to the floating wind market. (Offshore WIND)

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EPA launches $7 billion grant competition to increase solar access for low-income households. The Solar for All program aims to create jobs, tackle climate change, and provide financing and technical assistance for residential solar. (Solar Industry and 8 other sources)

US Department of Transportation awards $1.7 billion for transit projects, including over 1,700 zero-emission buses. Grant recipients prioritize standardized buses, faster delivery, and lower costs. (Green Car Congress and 5 other sources)

USDA to invest $500 million in domestic biofuels, announces first awardees of infrastructure projects. Grants of $450 million will be available quarterly to support biofuel-related infrastructure. (Green Car Congress and 5 other sources)

Deep tech company DePoly has raised CHF12.3m in seed funding to scale its universal chemical recycling process, which converts plastics into raw materials without compromising quality. The funding round was co-led by BASF Venture Capital and Wingman Ventures, with participation from Beiersdorf and others, as DePoly aims to tackle the global plastic waste problem and create a sustainable circular plastic economy. (Interplas Insights and 4 other sources)

bp ventures invests €7.5 million in Service4Charger to strengthen Germany's EV charging infrastructure. The partnership aims to bring thousands of new charging points online, contributing to the widespread adoption of EVs. (EVMagz and 4 other sources)

BlackRock raises over $500 million, including $100 million from Clean Energy Finance Corporation, for Australia's Waratah Super Battery, aiding the transition to renewables. The battery, one of the largest in the world, will enhance grid reliability and resilience, supporting Australia's renewable ambitions. (Renew Economy and 3 other sources)

Thailand's Global Power Synergy (GPSC) is investing an additional $233 million in Avaada Energy, bringing its total investment to over $750 million. Avaada Energy plans to expand its renewable energy plants and enter the battery storage segment. (ET EnergyWorld and 3 other sources)

Dutch government invests €9 billion to boost hydrogen initiatives, aiming for climate-neutral energy and sustainable industry. They plan to increase domestic hydrogen supply, set ambitious electrolysis capacity goals, and provide subsidies for renewable hydrogen production. (FuelCellsWorks and 3 other sources)

World Bank grants $1.5bn to India for low-carbon energy transition and net-zero goal. Funds will support renewable energy, green hydrogen, and climate finance. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)

SEG Solar to invest $500 million in an 80-year lease for an Indonesian solar factory. The 8 GW capacity project aims to supply their module factory in Houston. (pv magazine Australia and 3 other sources)

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Rosatom tests MOX fuel for VVER reactors, a step towards closing the nuclear fuel cycle. The tests aim to justify the efficiency and safety of MOX fuel, which contains 5.5-7.5% plutonium. (Nuclear Engineering International and 2 other sources)

A study by Zero Waste Europe and Searious Business reveals that reusable packaging is financially beneficial, with return on investment achieved within 2-6 years. As single-use packaging costs rise, reusable options gain economic advantage. (Recycling Magazine and 2 other sources)

Toothpaste ingredient may enhance electric car range, as scientists discover a fluoride electrolyte that protects batteries from performance decline. The new electrolyte forms a resilient protective layer, allowing lithium ions to flow efficiently for hundreds of cycles, potentially revolutionizing the electric vehicle industry. (Tech Xplore and 2 other sources)

New technology developed by Rice University engineers could revolutionize carbon capture by directly removing carbon dioxide from various sources using an electrochemical reaction. The scalable system has the potential to be used in industrial settings as well as small-scale applications. (Tech Xplore and 2 other sources)

Researchers worldwide are developing catalysts to improve renewable hydrogen production, addressing drawbacks such as cost and erosion. A team from the University of Adelaide has discovered a lattice-water-assisted mechanism that enhances the efficiency of an iridium oxide catalyst by 5-12%, reducing the amount of iridium required and making the process more cost-effective and cleaner. (Hydrogen Fuel News and 1 other source)

Neutron reflectometry reveals key to success in solid-state batteries: an extremely thin layer allowing quick flow of charged lithium atoms. Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory use the technique to study interphase in batteries. (Tech Xplore and 1 other source)

China ыuccessfully еests high-pressure pure hydrogen pipeline, advancing hydrogen transportation technology. China plans a 400km west-to-east hydrogen pipeline to facilitate the movement of up to 500,000 tonnes of hydrogen per year. (H2 View and 1 other source)

Iowa State University researchers develop soil sensors to measure nutrient levels, potentially reducing fertilizer costs and environmental impact. The sensors, integrated with existing agricultural equipment, provide continuous measurements and data transfer to optimize fertilization. (Precision Farming Dealer)

Algae-based biofuels, once hailed as a potential replacement for fossil fuels, may actually emit more carbon than diesel, according to new research. The manufacturing process of biodiesel derived from microalgae requires more energy than the final product can generate, undermining its energy efficiency. (Canary Media)

New method using Gramian angular difference fields and ConvNeXt improves screening accuracy of retired batteries. Researchers propose data-driven approach for efficient recycling. (Tech Xplore)

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China's newly added solar capacity in the first five months of 2023 reached 61.2GW, with a 140.3% increase in investment. The country's cumulative installed power generation capacity grew by 10.3%, with solar power increasing by 38.4% and wind power by 12.7%. (PV Tech and 5 other sources)

Global shipping industry can cut emissions by nearly 50% by 2030, says study. The cost of achieving these reductions would be manageable and far less than the cost of climate-related damages if emissions are not reduced. (Offshore Energy and 3 other sources)

Siemens Energy expects wind division repair costs to exceed €1 billion ($1.6 billion) due to high turbine failure rates. The troubled wind company, Siemens Gamesa, has experienced problems affecting 15-30% of its turbines worldwide, impacting other wind companies like GE and Vestas. (Renew Economy and 3 other sources)

"2023 U.S. Energy and Employment Report Reveals Significant Growth in Clean Energy Jobs". The report by the U.S. Dept. of Energy shows that clean energy jobs in the U.S. grew by 3.9% in 2022, adding 114,000 jobs nationally, with solar and wind industries leading the way. (Solar Power World and 3 other sources)

NREL researchers have released a study estimating the infrastructure needed for a national EV charging network to support 30-42 million EVs by 2030. The study provides detailed estimates for different charging scenarios and emphasizes the importance of public-private collaboration to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles. (CleanTechnica and 2 other sources)

Renewables meet 52% of Germany's electricity consumption, but more is needed for climate goals. Strong winds and high solar irradiation boost share from previous years. (Recharge and 2 other sources)

Renewable diesel is gaining market share from corn ethanol, according to the EPA. The EPA's biofuel targets for 2023-2025 show strong growth for biomass-based diesel, including renewable diesel, while corn ethanol sales stagnate. (Agri-Pulse and 1 other source)

A new study by Shell reveals that the adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing in Europe, alleviating range anxiety. The report highlights the impact of EV adoption on driver perceptions and emphasizes the need for collaboration to enhance the customer experience and remove entry barriers. (EVMagz and 1 other source)

Tesla is expected to break its own record for Q2 deliveries, with analysts predicting a 74% increase year over year. Despite recent stock downgrades, investors are focused on Tesla's gross margins and eagerly awaiting the delivery details. (CleanTechnica and 1 other source)

Aemetis Biogas exceeds RNG production plan by 20% as D3 RIN prices rise. Aemetis Biogas operates dairy project facilities to capture methane and generate renewable natural gas. (Green Car Congress and 1 other source)

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A new global initiative, supported by the British government, has introduced a standardized assessment framework to evaluate companies' claims regarding their progress towards climate targets and use of carbon offset credits. The Claims Code of Practice aims to promote transparency and confidence in an unregulated market. (Senece ESG and 5 other sources)

The British Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned electric car campaigns by Toyota and Hyundai for misleading claims about fast-charging capabilities. The ads failed to disclose important factors that could affect charging times and availability. (Electrive and 3 other sources)

Global shipping industry faces pressure to clean up emissions and pay climate reparations. UN meeting to discuss steeper climate targets and international carbon tax on polluting vessels. (POLITICO and 1 other source)

Prysmian Group sets more ambitious emission reduction targets to achieve sustainability goals, approved by SBTi. The Italy-based cabling giant aims to reduce GHG emissions by 47% (Scope 1 and 2) and 28% (Scope 3) by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. (Offshore Energy and 1 other source)

Alibaba Cloud helps measure carbon emissions at Olympic Esports Week, promoting sustainability through digital technology. The AI-driven platform estimates the carbon footprint of temporary construction and suggests emissions reductions, while engaging the public in carbon reduction efforts. (Alizila)

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Shell's renewables business head, Thomas Brostrom, departs after a brief tenure. Brostrom joined in 2021 and leaves amid Shell's transition to clean energy. (Upstream and 2 other sources)

Standard Chartered appoints Dana Barsky as Global Head of Sustainability Strategy and Net Zero. Barsky will drive sustainability agenda and develop relationships for the bank. (ESG Today and 1 other source)

Howden appoints Rowan Douglas as CEO of Climate Risk and Resilience division, accelerating climate capabilities. Douglas will develop global support and integrate climate considerations into various specialties and regions at Howden. (ESG Today and 1 other source)

AXA IM Alts appoints Laurent Lavergne as Global Head of Sustainability to drive sustainable investments. Lavergne will oversee the firm's decarbonization strategy and take over responsibilities from the current Global Head of Responsible Investment. (ESG Today and 1 other source)

RWE appoints Thomas Michel as COO for its expanding offshore wind business, focusing on large projects under construction. Michel brings 15 years of experience in the wind sector, overseeing operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms. (Recharge and 1 other source)

Dutch Minister for Climate and Energy Policy, Rob Jetten, plans to appoint a flexibility coordinator to address grid congestion in the Netherlands. The coordinator aims to solve bottlenecks and uncertainties in investing in flexibility to connect companies to the grid faster and prevent the country from being locked down during grid renovations. (Industrial News)

UK's Net Zero Technology Centre appoints Peter Mather as new chair, leveraging his extensive energy expertise. Mather brings experience from the UK government's Department for Energy Security & Net Zero. (Upstream)

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Parliament's watchdog criticizes Defra for failing to implement waste strategy, lacking long-term plans. The National Audit Office report highlights delays and insufficient planning, hindering waste reduction efforts. (Materials Recycling World and 6 other sources)

The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management calls for UK government action on packaging and collection reforms, highlighting the need for improved recycling rates and job growth in the green economy. The letter emphasizes that delaying these reforms would undermine confidence and hinder potential investment and job creation. (Circular and 1 other source)

Ohio House Bill 79, a bipartisan proposal, aims to reintroduce energy-saving programs by gas and electric utilities. The bill allows utilities to offer voluntary programs with capped charges and lower energy-saving expectations. (Energy News Network and 1 other source)

Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission introduces amendments to promote green energy open access. The changes streamline the application process and modify various aspects, benefiting consumers and facilitating the adoption of renewable sources. (SolarQuarter and 1 other source)

Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Authority introduces draft regulations for Green Energy Open Access, prioritizing different power consumers. The rules aim to streamline the process and provide benefits to consumers seeking renewable energy. (SolarQuarter and 1 other source)

India's Power Ministry sets benchmark prices for biomass pellets in thermal power plants. The move aims to establish a sustainable supply mechanism for co-firing and reduce stubble burning. (Bioenergy Insight and 1 other source)

The Hong Kong Convention, aimed at safe and environmentally sound ship recycling, will enter into force in 2025 after meeting required criteria. Bangladesh and Liberia's accession enables the convention's implementation, ensuring safer practices in the global shipping industry. (Fathom World and 1 other source)

IMI Critical Engineering advises EU to adopt US hydrogen initiatives to meet green production goals. The EU should expand its support to include incentives like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to accelerate progress. (H2 View and 1 other source)

Delhi's power regulator has approved an increase in power tariffs, with users consuming more than 200 units facing an additional 8% surcharge. Consumers using up to 200 units will be unaffected, but others will have to pay the surcharge. (ET EnergyWorld and 1 other source)

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The Net-Zero Awards recognize and reward individuals and organizations leading the transition to a net-zero carbon economy, with 16 categories available for entry. The deadline for applications is July 14th, and the awards ceremony will be held on November 15th in London. (edie and 2 other sources)

The 2nd annual CEA Summit East Conference will feature a graduate student poster competition, providing a platform for aspiring students to showcase their research in the controlled environment agriculture sector. The conference aims to foster collaboration between academia and industry while connecting commercial companies with talented individuals in the CEA field. (iGrow News and 1 other source)

LNG2023 in Vancouver will gather 15,000 delegates from 85 countries to discuss industry advances and decarbonization targets. The event will feature 250 international speakers and showcase leading suppliers in the LNG value chain. (Energy Now)

The National Energy Retrofit Conference in Montreal emphasized the need for accelerated action and investment in deep energy retrofits to meet emission reduction goals, create jobs, and achieve net-zero buildings. Participants discussed policy priorities, affordability, capacity-building, and the importance of tailored approaches to address regional differences. (The Energy Mix)

Ambuja Cements and ACC, part of the Adani Group, win sustainability awards in India. The companies' commitment to sustainability and outstanding success are recognized by BW Businessworld. (CemNet)

Electric & Hybrid Marine Expo Europe showcased the latest innovations in marine electrification and decarbonization. The event featured over 200 exhibitors, a conference with expert speakers, and an expanded awards ceremony, highlighting the industry's progress towards sustainable goals. (Industrial News)

GoodWe held successful Customer Meet event in Lucknow, showcasing solar energy potential and product offerings. The event featured interactive presentations, networking, and special discounts on residential inverters. (SolarQuarter)

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