Day: August 3, 2024

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE and Soltec are partnering to develop a prototype two-axis tracker for Fraunhofer ISE’s latest micro-Concentrator photovoltaics (CPV) technology, with installation planned in Spain by the end of 2024. Soltec, specialising in solar trackers for large-scale projects, and Fraunhofer ISE, known for its III-V and concentrator photovoltaics research, aim to enhance CPV technology. Fraunhofer’s micro-CPV modules achieve a 36% conversion efficiency, yielding 30% more energy than conventional PV solutions….

Kazakhstan’s national atomic company and leading uranium producer, Kazatomprom, has revised its 2024 production guidance from 21,000–22,500 tonnes of uranium to 22,500–23,500 tonnes (11,600–12,600tU on an attributable basis). This update follows a 5% production increase in the second quarter (Q2) of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, attributed to the resumption of 2023 drilling works. The company stated that the additional uranium produced will be used to replenish its inventories. Kazatomprom has secured…

US nuclear company Holtec International has passed the first step of the UK’s Generic Design Assessment (GDA) for its SMR-300 small modular reactor (SMR) design. The GDA is conducted by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the Environment Agency, and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to assess the safety, security, and environmental protection aspects of nuclear power plant designs for potential deployment in Britain. Saffron Price-Finnerty, the Environment Agency’s new reactors programme manager, stated that they…

Hull Street Energy (HSE), a US-based private equity firm, has agreed to acquire a portfolio of four thermal power plants on Long Island, New York, from J-Power USA. The plants—Edgewood Energy, Shoreham Energy, Pinelawn Power, and Equus Power I LP—collectively provide 300 MW of critical power generation to support New York customers. J-Power USA, headquartered in the greater Chicago area and a subsidiary of J-Power North America, focuses on acquiring, developing, financing, and operating power…

OX2 has sold the Uusnivala battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Finland to L&G NTR Clean Power Fund. The 50 MW/110 MWh project, now ready for construction, will be overseen by the new owner. This sale represents a significant enhancement to the Finnish grid system. Uusnivala will provide essential ancillary services, including frequency regulation and grid stability, and engage in energy arbitrage within wholesale markets. Strategically located near a high wind power penetration area,…

Rovco has completed unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance at the Baltic Sea site for the upcoming Windanker offshore wind farm, under a contract awarded by Iberdrola. This project marks Rovco’s inaugural offshore wind venture in German waters. The operation at Windanker utilized advanced 3D modelling and enhanced inspection capabilities to identify and address UXO and non-UXO objects. Confirmed UXOs were safely relocated or disposed of, with comprehensive inspections ensuring the removal of all potential hazards. Rovco’s…

The Renewables Infrastructure Group (TRIG) has sold a 15.2% equity interest in the 330MW Gode offshore wind farm in Germany for €100 million, a 9% premium to its carrying value. The buyer is a set of funds managed by Equitix Investment Management, and the transaction is pending regulatory approvals and consent. TRIG will retain a 9.8% interest in the wind farm. TRIG initially acquired a 25% indirect equity interest in Gode Wind 1 offshore wind…

The Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2) will receive up to $925 million over its project lifetime from the US Department of Energy (DOE). Phase 1, which started in July 2024 and will last up to 36 months, has unlocked $30 million, with the remaining funds to be released in three future phases as the hub meets DOE milestones. The phased development will span more than a decade. ARCH2 became one of the seven hydrogen…

China’s electric vehicle (EV) companies are expanding into Thailand, a key industry hub, as Europe and the United States impose tariffs to limit their entry. GAC Aion, a Chinese EV maker, set up its first overseas operation in Thailand a year ago. Starting with no office, factory, or local employees, the team quickly adapted, selling their first vehicle within 74 days. Chinese EV manufacturers like Aion are rapidly entering overseas markets, with Thailand being one…

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has signed an agreement with TotalEnergies to assess the feasibility of developing a commercial green hydrogen to methanol to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) project in the UAE. In December last year, both companies conducted a successful test flight during COP28, showcasing the potential of converting methanol to SAF. The proposed project aims to capture and utilize CO2 from an industrial source as feedstock, along with green hydrogen produced through…