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EDF in talks to source nuclear power for 1 GW data centre projects in France

Électricité de France (EDF) is negotiating with three suppliers to secure power for its planned 1 GW data centre projects in France, with a focus on nuclear energy as a clean power source for tech firms amid the rising energy demands driven by AI.  EDF executive director Marc Benayoun confirmed the ongoing discussions but withheld details on the companies involved, noting that site selection for the projects is still in progress. EDF expects to export…

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GE Vernova launches HVDC Competence Center in Berlin

GE Vernova Inc. has launched a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Competence Center at its Electrification facility in Berlin to accelerate energy transition initiatives in Germany and Europe.  The center focuses on developing technology to improve grid stability, enable long-distance power transmission, and integrate renewable energy into power systems.  This facility positions Berlin as a central hub for GE Vernova’s Electrification Systems businesses in Europe, supporting projects in Grid Solutions, Power Conversion, and Solar and…

Power Sector News Roundup for November 4, 2024

Global: IEA report forecasts US$2 trillion clean energy market growth, challenging oil industry dominance. Germany to bury nuclear waste, but toxic dispute remains unresolved. UK Government confirms rise in oil and gas headline tax alongside investment in clean energy. Asia to spend over USD 20 billion on EVs, according to a report. Moroccan government partners with Total Energies H2 for the ‘Chbika’ green hydrogen project. Blykalla and ABB partner to develop an SMR pilot facility…

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CCI acquires Dutch battery storage platform LCEGS

S4 Energy, a subsidiary of Castleton Commodities International (CCI) specializing in grid-scale battery energy storage, has acquired Netherlands-based LC Energy’s battery storage platform, LCEGS.  This acquisition enhances the energy grid’s resilience by merging LCEGS’ development expertise with S4 Energy’s operational experience. Battery energy storage is crucial for Europe’s decarbonisation goals and grid stability. With increasing reliance on renewable energy and demand from sectors like data centres, battery storage is set to play a key role…

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World Nuclear Performance 2024

In a world grappling with the urgency of climate goals and clean energy transitions, the World Nuclear Performance Report 2024, produced by the World Nuclear Association, presents a compelling narrative on the global nuclear industry’s role in reducing emissions and enhancing energy security. Through facts, case studies, and country-specific insights, the report highlights nuclear energy’s capacity to deliver dependable, carbon-free power and keep pace with rising global electricity demands. Nuclear’s Vital Statistics: Performance on a…

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Global Insights on Smart Grid Technology Patents

The energy transition involves a profound transformation of power systems, including power generation, transmission, distribution, and consumer practices. This transformation is driven by increasing electricity demand and integrating renewable energy sources, introducing variability into power grids. Smart grid technologies are crucial for managing these challenges, enabling grids to become more efficient and resilient while containing operational costs. Digital technologies, in particular, facilitate the integration of variable renewable energy sources, enhance end-user engagement, and improve energy…

Power Sector News Roundup for October 21, 2024

Global: Top European Union economies spend 42 billion euros annually on fossil-fuel company car subsidies, study finds European green electricity PPA prices fall 12.4% in Q3 2024, LevelTen Energy reports Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm generates first power for UK grid Hellenic Cables secures contract for Leading Light Wind project in the US deveritec GmbH and Wirepas launch new NIC for Wirepas 5G Mesh in Europe Lhyfe partners with KEYOU for hydrogen mobility in…

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European green electricity PPA prices fall 12.4% in Q3 2024, LevelTen reports

According to LevelTen, a price tracking platform, European power purchase agreement (PPA) prices for green electricity dropped by 12.4% in Q3 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.  This decrease is attributed to declining inflation and reduced market volatility following the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 energy crisis. LevelTen’s quarterly report suggests that current stable market conditions present an opportunity for buyers to secure favourable deals. The variety of offtake opportunities for potential PPA…

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DRC modernises substation for Inga I & II hydropower plants

A critical power substation connected to the Inga I and II hydropower plants (HPPs) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been modernised and digitised, enhancing the country’s ability to utilize the upgraded facilities.  The hydropower plants, located on the Congo River, have a combined installed capacity of over 1.7 GW and supply 90% of the electricity consumed in Kinshasa. The modernisation project, backed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and…

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Top EU economies spend 42 billion euros annually on fossil-fuel company car subsidies, study finds

The EU‘s five largest economies—Italy, Germany, France, Poland, and the United Kingdom—spend a combined 42 billion euros (USD 45.6 billion) annually subsidizing fossil-fuel company cars, according to a study by consultancy Environmental Resources Management (ERM), commissioned by environmental group Transport & Environment (T&E). The report urges the EU to redirect these subsidies towards electric vehicles (EVs) instead. Italy leads with 16 billion euros in subsidies, followed by Germany with 13.7 billion euros. France and Poland…