The Week in Cleantech: 9 July 2023
Last week saw a surge in news about electric vehicles. Stellantis unveiled its new electric vehicle platform STLA Medium, Peugeot launched three new e-bike models with innovative features and eye-catching designs, and MG Motor presented a powerful electric hatchback with numerous impressive features. Meanwhile, Kentucky became the first state in the US to mandate Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs at charging stations.
Projects
First monopile foundation completed for 1.1 GW Ocean Wind 1 offshore wind project in New Jersey. Ørsted becomes sole owner after PSEG sells its stake. (Offshore WIND and 13 other sources)
Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam to procure 600 MW of solar power through competitive bidding, offering additional capacity at lowest tariff. (pv magazine and 8 other sources)
Amazon rolls out Rivian electric delivery vans in Europe, with 300 hitting the road in Germany, part of Amazon's plan to invest €1 billion to electrify its European transportation network. The custom-designed vans prioritize safety, sustainability, and driver comfort, featuring innovative technology and features for a more sustainable delivery fleet. (automotiveEV and 8 other sources)
Enphase begins U.S. manufacturing of solar microinverters, creating 600 jobs and planning for more factories. (Canary Media and 4 other sources)
India's Kakrapar 3 reactor starts commercial operation, three years after first criticality. Indian government approves construction of ten more reactors by 2031. (World Nuclear News and 3 other sources)
First floating DP3 heavy lift and installation ship, Green Jade, joins DEME's fleet in Taiwan. The vessel will support Taiwan's offshore wind energy targets with its advanced features. (Offshore WIND and 3 other sources)
Construction begins on BorWin6 HVDC project, linking offshore wind capacity to German grid. McDermott and GEIRI/C-EPRI collaborate to build offshore converter platform and onshore converter station for BorWin6. (Offshore WIND and 3 other sources)
Rosatom begins construction of Paks II NPP in Hungary, ensuring safe operation of existing units. (Nuclear Engineering International and 2 other sources)
SSE Renewables reaches halfway point in installing turbines at Viking wind farm in Shetland Islands, set to be UK's most productive onshore wind farm, powering nearly 500,000 homes. Full operation expected by autumn 2024. (Renewables Now and 2 other sources)
Products, Services, and Technologies
Stellantis unveils STLA Medium, its new electric vehicle platform for global sales, featuring a 400-volt battery, flexible body styles, and a range of over 500 kilometers. The platform will be used by Stellantis' brands, with Peugeot confirming the e-3008 as one of the models to utilize the architecture. (Electrive and 4 other sources)
Fisker teases flagship EV Ronin, promising "super fast" speed and 600-mile range, set to be revealed on August 3. The car features a retractable metal roof, muscular fenders, and a luxurious vegan interior. (InsideEVs and 4 other sources)
MG Motor unveils MG4 EV XPower, a powerful electric hot hatch with impressive features. The MG4 EV XPower is a true electric hot hatch with 429 horsepower, 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds, and advanced technological upgrades for enhanced performance and handling. (InsideEVs and 3 other sources)
Tesla is experimenting with using Optimus humanoid robot display units in its stores in China to increase foot traffic and customer engagement. The goal is to eventually develop a general-purpose robot for home use. (Elektrek and 3 other sources)
Peugeot launches new line of electric bikes with innovative features, eye-catching designs. French automaker Peugeot unveils three new e-bike models, including a city commuter, a longtail cargo, and a front loader, with features like adaptive electric assistance, anti-theft system, and real-time navigation. (Elektrek and 1 other source)
Astronergy launches new solar module series with improved efficiency and aims to ship 30 GW in 2023. (pv magazine Australia and 1 other source)
Tesla's NACS connector becomes the majority charging standard for EVs in North America, with automakers adopting it for future EVs. Tesla's Supercharger network's reliability and high consumer satisfaction ratings make it a preferred choice. (Green Car Reports and 1 other source)
Stellantis unveils FIAT 600e, a compact electric SUV rivaling Volvo EX30, offering ample space and impressive range. With fast charging capability, modern upgrades, and luxurious features, it aims to capture the growing European market. (EVMagz and 1 other source)
Seattle startup Aigen unveils solar-powered robotic platform for farming, reducing fossil fuel use and providing real-time insights to farmers. Pre-orders for their Element Service sold out in one day, highlighting the demand for efficient weeding strategies. (iGrow News and 1 other source)
Deals and Partnerships
Mercedes-Benz to implement NACS ports in its EVs from 2025, offering Tesla Superchargers in North America from 2024. Mercedes-Benz plans to establish its own High-Power Charging Network with more than 400 charging hubs in North America by the end of the decade. (Green Car Congress and 6 other sources)
Capital Power Corp places 1 GW solar module order with First Solar for 2026-2028. (Renewables Now and 6 other sources)
Ørsted Wind Power awards Prysmian Group contract for Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm in UK. Prysmian Group to supply inter-array submarine cables for 2.9 GW wind farm. (Offshore WIND and 4 other sources)
EDF Renewables and Deep Wind Offshore partner with Moreld Ocean Wind for floating wind solution. The consortium chooses Moreld's Ocergy floater as the most sustainable and cost-effective option for Utsira Nord. (Offshore WIND and 4 other sources)
Altilium Metals partners with Marubeni for UK and Europe EV battery recycling. (Energy Storage Journal and 3 other sources)
Sweden-based SeaTwirl has received its first commercial order for a new wind turbine application in the North Sea, marking a milestone for the company's technology. (Offshore WIND and 3 other sources)
Cadeler signs contract for 76 Vestas 15 MW offshore wind turbines in Polish Baltic Sea. Project begins in 2024, marking Cadeler's entry into expanding market. (Offshore WIND and 3 other sources)
Finnish state-owned enterprise awards exclusive rights to develop 2GW offshore wind farm. Skyborn Renewables to contribute to Finland's renewable energy goals. (Power Technology and 3 other sources)
Vestas secures 370 MW wind turbine orders for projects in Spain, Italy, and Greece. Deals include undisclosed Spanish projects, Italian Villacidro and Musei wind projects, and Greek Karamoutzi and Karfoula wind parks. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)
Subsea7 and EnBW collaborate to study offshore wind-powered hydrogen production concepts, exploring technical and commercial aspects for pilot and commercial scale facilities. (Offshore WIND and 3 other sources)
Mergers and Acquisitions
German solar power firm Ib vogt sells 98.4 MWp solar projects in Italy to Rubis Photosol. The portfolio includes 10 projects in central Italy, with completion expected by 2026. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)
Bunge and Chevron's Renewable Energy Group acquire Chacraservicios to expand renewable oil sources. The investment aims to meet the growing demand for lower carbon feedstocks. (Biodiesel Magazine and 3 other sources)
General Motors has acquired ALGOLiON, an Israeli battery software startup, to accelerate the development of a cost-effective early hazard detection system for electric vehicles (EVs). ALGOLiON's software, combined with GM's expertise, can identify battery anomalies and potential hazards earlier, without the need for additional hardware or sensors. (Battery Industry and 2 other sources)
German renewables developer PNE AG sells 208 MWp solar projects in Romania to TotalEnergies Renewables. TotalEnergies expands presence in Eastern Europe following recent acquisitions in Poland. (Renewables Now and 1 other source)
Carlyle Group acquires majority stake in sustainability firm Anthesis to strengthen ESG strategy and decarbonization initiatives. Anthesis will expand internationally and enhance its ESG offering with Carlyle's support. (ESG Today and 1 other source)
Casella Waste Systems acquires GFL Environmental operations for $525 million, expanding into Mid-Atlantic markets. (Waste Advantage Magazine and 1 other source)
Metro Compactor Service expands operations in Ontario with acquisition of Miller Waste Solutions Group, strengthening business offerings in construction sector.__ (Waste Advantage Magazine and 1 other source)
Danish renewables firm European Energy to sell 49% stake in 304MW solar park to Mitsui. The solar park will include an e-methanol facility, aiming to decarbonize heavy transport and plastic production. (PV Tech and 1 other source)
GQG Partners increases stake in Adani group despite negative report, showing confidence in the conglomerate's future. The US-based investment firm bought over 5% worth of additional shares in Adani Enterprises and Adani Green Energy, signaling support despite allegations of fraud. (ET EnergyWorld and 1 other source)
Addison Lee acquires Green Tomato Cars, expanding its electric vehicle fleet to over 7,500. The deal strengthens Addison Lee's commitment to sustainable mobility in London. (Electrive)
Funding and Investments
bp Ventures has invested $10 million in WasteFuel, a biofuels company using proven technologies to convert bio-based waste into lower-carbon fuels. WasteFuel plans to develop bio-methanol plants globally, with its first project in Dubai. (Bioenergy Insight and 6 other sources)
The US Department of Energy plans to invest up to $1 billion in a demand-side initiative to support Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs, aiming to reduce emissions and create jobs. The initiative will provide market certainty to producers and end users, unlocking private investment and promoting the growth of clean hydrogen. (ESG News and 5 other sources)
$2 billion Hydrogen Headstart program to boost Australia's renewable hydrogen industry. The Australian government seeks feedback to revamp the National Hydrogen Strategy and design the program, aiming to attract $300 billion in private investment for large-scale renewable hydrogen projects. (pv magazine Australia and 5 other sources)
Hydrogen firm Thyssenkrupp Nucera completes Germany's largest IPO, signaling investor confidence in green hydrogen. The successful market debut highlights the growing interest in sustainable solutions for the energy transition. (Energy News and 5 other sources)
Kent County Bioenergy Facility awarded $5 million grant for world-leading recycling project. The grant supports the development of the facility, which aims to reduce landfill waste, create jobs, and produce renewable fuel. (Waste Advantage Magazine and 4 other sources)
German solar developer Goldbeck Solar secures $47.9m financing for solar projects in Canada and Chile. The funding will support the construction of four solar projects with a combined capacity of 93 MWp. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)
Barclays provides GBP 95.5m loan to Moray West offshore wind project in Scotland. The loan supports the project's construction, with installation set for 2023. (Renewables Now and 3 other sources)
Ireland to grant solar rebates for larger PV installations, covering up to 30% of costs. Scheme to operate until 2023, costing €15 million. (pv magazine and 2 other sources)
Genex Power secures AUD 44.5m funding from Japan's Electric Power Development for solar and hydro projects. Japanese partner J-Power to co-develop 2GW Bulli Creek solar project. (Renewables Now and 2 other sources)
€500M in loans from ICO and EIB support Endesa's renewable energy projects in Spain, accelerating the EU's energy transition and reducing fossil fuel imports. Loan conditions are tied to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with climate action goals. (ESG News and 2 other sources)
Research and Development
Researchers at the King Abdullah University surpass 30% efficiency milestone for tandem silicon-perovskite solar cells, advancing renewable energy technology. Further improvements and scalability needed for commercial viability within five years. (Mercom India and 4 other sources)
Researchers find strategy to reduce shipping emissions by up to a quarter using modern sails and efficient routing, offsetting unpredictable weather conditions. (ScienceDaily and 2 other sources)
Organic electronics: Cutting carbon emissions and rare material consumption through sustainability and recycling. Researchers propose more efficient manufacturing processes and planning for recycling in the laboratory to reduce environmental impact and establish organic electronics as a renewable energy component. (Tech Xplore and 2 other sources)
Marginal soil improvements can store enough carbon to limit global heating to 1.5C, according to research. Better farming techniques could absorb 31 gigatons of carbon dioxide annually, reducing emissions and costs. (GRIST and 2 other sources)
Nanosheet breakthrough boosts energy storage, revolutionizing dielectric capacitors for renewable energy and electric vehicles. Researchers achieve highest energy density ever recorded using nanosheet technology. (eeNews Power and 1 other source)
Chinese containment model completes structural testing, providing support for next-generation nuclear power technology. China's Harbin Institute of Technology successfully completes a three-year structural performance test of a scaled-down Hualong One containment building, filling the gap in international testing. (World Nuclear News and 1 other source)
Alma Clean Power achieves highest power output with direct ammonia solid oxide fuel cells. The technology enables ammonia-operated maritime energy systems without energy-intensive pre-treatment. (Offshore Energy and 1 other source)
Atlanta-based Novelis Inc. will undertake hydrogen-burning trials at its Latchford aluminium recycling plant in the UK, aiming to replace natural gas with hydrogen and reduce CO2eq emissions by up to 90%. (Energy News and 1 other source)
Researchers in Australia have found that using a common household microwave can heat up solar panels, making it easier to disassemble and recover valuable materials, such as silver and glass, addressing the challenge of recycling them. (The Daily Climate and 1 other source)
Insolight's agrivoltaic system, insolagrin, installed in Swiss orchard, combines crop protection and solar energy. The pilot project aims to test different Agri Photovoltaic systems and their impact on energy production and crop yield.__ (East Fruit)
Reports
Rivian's Q2 2023 vehicle production and delivery numbers exceed expectations, with 13,992 vehicles built and 12,640 vehicles delivered, bringing them closer to their goal of delivering 50,000 vehicles this year. The start of Rivian's Enduro motor units and eligibility for EV tax credits may have contributed to the positive results. (Green Car Reports and 6 other sources)
Global plugin vehicle registrations surge 50% in May 2023, reaching 1,057,000 units, representing 16% of the auto market. Tesla Model Y dominates sales, while BYD's new Seagull shows promise for overseas markets. (CleanTechnica and 6 other sources)
Norway's new passenger car registrations in June increased by 4.5% compared to last year, with plug-in electric cars dominating the market at 90.9% of total volume. Tesla Model Y remains the best-selling car, while Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV follow closely behind. (InsideEVs and 3 other sources)
Portugal targets 20.4GW of solar PV by 2030, doubling its previous plan, with a focus on utility-scale projects. Green hydrogen will also play a significant role in decarbonization efforts. (PV Tech and 3 other sources)
Brazil adds 4.5 GW of solar and wind power capacity in first half of 2023. Wind power plants contribute 44.53% of the increase, with solar and thermal parks also adding capacity. (Renewables Now and 2 other sources)
Tesla Model Y sets sales records in Iceland and Australia, becoming best-selling car. The Model Y surpassed a 35-year-old record in Iceland and became the top-selling car in Australia in June, with 5,560 units delivered. (InsideEVs and 2 other sources)
Polestar delivers 36% more electric cars in Q2, aims for higher second-half deliveries to meet 2023 target. Polestar achieved 15,800 vehicle deliveries in Q2, primarily driven by a strong June, and plans to open more showrooms to boost sales. (Electrive and 2 other sources)
85% of businesses have a circular economy strategy, with 21% aiming for full circularity within three years, but 11% have no strategy in place. 20% are acting ahead of legislation, while 24% describe their rate of change as 'medium'. (Packaging News and 2 other sources)
Clean energy jobs surge in the US, accounting for over 40% of total energy jobs, with solar and wind leading the way. The 2023 US Energy and Employment Report also highlights the ease of filling unionized positions in the clean energy sector and the role it plays in combating climate change. (Bioenergy Insight and 2 other sources)
Biofuels production capacity in the US increased in April, with feedstock consumption rising compared to last year. Total capacity reached 23.135 billion gallons per year, with fuel ethanol capacity at 17.77 billion gallons per year and biodiesel capacity at 2.087 billion gallons per year. (Biodiesel Magazine and 1 other source)
Environmental, Social, and Governance
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reached a compromise to reduce emissions by 20% from 2008 levels by 2030 and 70% by 2040, aiming for net-zero emissions "by or around 2050." However, the agreement was criticized for lacking ambition and enforceability, with calls for more concrete measures to reduce emissions. (The Energy Mix and 14 other sources)
Puma joins deforestation-free leather initiative, aiming to protect biodiversity and human rights. Puma commits to sustainable materials and traceability in its leather supply chain. (ESG News and 2 other sources)
Rise in landfill use for biodegradable waste urges government funding for alternatives, says Larac. UK unlikely to meet landfill elimination target by 2028, creating urgency for policymaking and funding. (Materials Recycling World and 1 other source)
Aeroporti di Roma completes €400 million sustainability-linked bond, reinforcing commitment to sustainable development. The bond's cost of debt is tied to climate-related goals. (ESG Today and 1 other source)
Swiss companies open CO2 liquefaction facility, recycling carbon dioxide for industrial applications and reducing fossil-derived CO2. The plant, developed by Hitachi Zosen Inova AG, allows for the storage and transport of up to 3,000 tonnes of liquefied CO2 per year. (Bioenergy International and 1 other source)
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) aims to make 50% of its refinery hydrogen green by 2030, converting 350,000 metric tonnes per annum (mtpa) to green hydrogen in its refineries. The company plans to establish India's first commercial-scale green hydrogen plant at its Panipat refinery with a capacity of 7,000 mtpa. (ET EnergyWorld)
BMW shifts Asia sustainability function to sales, with Preeti Gupta leading both roles. The automaker aims to integrate sustainability into its department and achieve total climate neutrality by 2050. (Eco-Business)
AXA sets ambitious decarbonization targets for investment and insurance activities to combat climate change. The company aims to reduce emissions from its largest commercial insurance clients by 30% and cut its general account investment assets' carbon footprint by 50% by 2030. (FinTech Global)
People
Swiss marine power company WinGD announces leadership change: Dominik Schneiter appointed Acting CEO.__ (Fathom World and 1 other source)
Global Solar Council seeks new CEO as current chief Gianni Chianetta steps down, while emphasizing the importance of solar power in achieving climate goals. (Recharge and 1 other source)
Shell scales back energy transition plans as head of renewable generation departs. CEO focuses on shareholder return, shifting strategy back to oil and gas production, reducing investment in renewables. (Offshore Technology and 1 other source)
Shell loses second renewables executive as UK offshore wind business manager resigns and criticizes company's strategy on social media.__ (Recharge and 1 other source)
Rivian hires former Tesla and Apple executive as Chief Communications Officer to strengthen its communications efforts. Sarah O'Brien brings extensive experience in shaping brand narratives and will oversee product communications and brand reputation at Rivian. (EVMagz)
Audi replaces CEO Markus Duesmann, appoints Gernot Döllner to refine product strategy and strengthen market position. Döllner's leadership will shape Audi's future as it transitions to electric mobility and addresses challenges in China and the US. (EVMagz)
Toyota Motor North America appoints Susan Elkington as Senior VP of Electric Vehicle Supply, emphasizing its commitment to electrification. Elkington will oversee battery and EV production strategy, including the production of a three-row electric SUV in Kentucky. (EVMagz)
AXA IM Alts appoints Laurent Lavergne as Global Head of Sustainability to drive decarbonization strategy. Lavergne will oversee sustainability across all business lines, replacing the Global Head of Responsible Investment. (FinTech Global)
Quantron AG, a clean tech enterprise specializing in sustainable transport, has appointed Beate Reimann as its new CFO and expanded its management team with two more international members. The strategic decision strengthens Quantron's expertise in finance, personnel development, and energy, positioning the company for further global growth. (FuelCellsWorks)
Sun Cable trims staff and shifts focus after strategic review of solar project. Grok Ventures and Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners purchase prompts redundancies and executive changes. (Renew Economy)
Legislation and Regulation
The UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority announces reforms to limit emissions and includes maritime sector, while UK Chamber of Shipping urges funds to aid net zero transition. (Offshore Energy and 6 other sources)
EU Commission introduces mandatory textile waste scheme to promote sustainability. Producers to pay fees for waste management, encouraging waste reduction and circularity. (Ecotextile and 5 other sources)
Kentucky mandates Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs at charging stations, becoming the first state to do so in the US. The transition from CCS1 to NACS is a groundbreaking change, but mandating NACS too early may pause new infrastructure installations, suggesting a modified requirement to allow gradual implementation. (InsideEVs and 3 other sources)
China to restrict export of critical metals used in semiconductors, retaliating against US trade restrictions. Measures require licenses for shipping gallium and germanium products, affecting global supply and raising concerns about rare earths. (Power Technology and 2 other sources)
Dutch government allows pre-approval tastings of cultivated meat, making Netherlands EU's pioneer in the field. Meatable and Mosa Meat among the companies benefiting from the new regulations. (Forbes and 1 other source)
EU Commission to impose tariffs on UK-EU EV shipments despite UK Government's request for delay. Tariffs will increase from 10% to 55% by 2027. (Rho Motion and 1 other source)
Events
ACI EUROPE announces winners of Best Airport Awards 2023, highlighting excellence in accessibility, digital transformation, eco-innovation, human resources, and world business partnership. Alicante Airport, Prague Airport, Gatwick Airport, Bologna Airport, and Smiths Detection among the winners. (International Airport Review)
Alibaba Cloud's Energy Expert showcased its AI-driven sustainability solution at the first Olympic Esports Week in Singapore, measuring and managing carbon emissions. The event also featured discussions on esports innovation and showcased games designed for the elderly. (Alizila)
National Environmental Services Survey uncovers critical issues and opportunities in UK's environment sector. The upcoming Environmental Services & Solutions Expo will showcase the survey's findings and promote effective solutions.__ (Waste Management World)
Climate Summit: VCs reveal winning strategies for climate tech investments amid market challenges. Leading VCs discuss underrated, overrated, and emerging climate technologies at SOSV Climate Tech Summit.__ (SOSV)
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