MET Energia Italia Powers Lombardy with Its First Renewable Energy Community A New Era of Green Energy in Lombardy MET Energia Italia, a subsidiary of Swiss-based MET Group, has officially launched Lombardy’s first Renewable Energy Community, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward a sustainable future. The Heart of the Community: Staffora 1 Located in the picturesque village of Cegni, the Staffora 1 Renewable Energy Community invites citizens, businesses, and local authorities to join forces in harnessing renewable energy for economic and environmental benefits. The photovoltaic plant, built on the roofs of a former industrial center, has an impressive capacity to produce up to 200KW of energy, with room to expand to 400KW based on growing demand. Empowering Lombardy’s Residents The community has already garnered 100 active participants (contact points), and the clean energy generated is sufficient to power 200 households, providing both financial savings and a reduced carbon footprint for the region. Innovation Backed by Expertise MET Energia Italia spearheaded this visionary project by developing the infrastructure, overseeing the complex authorization processes, and collaborating closely with local authorities to ensure a seamless launch. Vita Carrerio, CEO of MET Italia Energy Solutions, shared her excitement: “The energy community in the Staffora Valley represents a cutting-edge project with high innovative value. We are proud that MET Energia Italia has promoted and overseen its implementation. Our goal is to help improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact in industrial and commercial sectors.” Scaling Up for a Greener Future While Staffora 1 is a major achievement, MET Energia Italia is not stopping there. Plans are already underway to finance additional photovoltaic systems across Italy, further enabling citizens to benefit from energy communities and fostering a collective commitment to sustainability. Join the movement toward a cleaner, greener future with MET Energia Italia. Together, we can make a difference! #RenewableEnergy #GreenLiving #METEnergiaItalia #Sustainability #Lombardy #SolarPower #EnergyCommunity #CleanEnergy #Innovation #Photovoltaics
EDF Renewables Takes Flight With Solar Farm Revolution At UK Airport
London Stansted Teams Up with EDF Renewables UK for Groundbreaking 14MW Solar Farm London Stansted Airport is taking a major leap toward sustainability by appointing EDF Renewables UK to design, construct, and operate its ambitious 14MW solar farm project. Positioned on Stansted-owned land at High House Farm, just east of the airport, this ground-mounted installation is set to transform the airport’s energy strategy while championing environmental stewardship. Driving a Greener Future The project is tailored to meet the airport’s escalating electricity demands, driven in part by the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), and reinforces its commitment to achieving net zero carbon operations by 2038. Beyond energy production, the development aims to enhance the site’s biodiversity with measures including: 50+ new willow and field maple trees 750 metres of reinstated hedgerows A sprawling 19-hectare wildflower meadow Additional screening for visual harmony and ecological balance Construction of the solar farm is slated to begin in early 2025, marking a pivotal step in Stansted’s journey toward sustainable aviation.A Partnership for Progress Mike Hardaker, London Stansted’s Chief Asset and Development Officer, expressed excitement over the collaboration: “We are delighted to announce EDF Renewables UK as our partner for the development and operation of our 14.3MW solar farm, the first of its kind at any airport in the South-East of England. London Stansted has a long and proud track record of sustainable development, and a commitment to deliver the airport’s future growth in the most responsible way possible.” With the airport already holding Level 3+ carbon neutral status since 2018, this solar farm represents a bold move to self-generate renewable electricity. It will bolster the security of the airport’s energy supply while freeing up renewable energy for use elsewhere on the grid. Leading by Example in Decarbonisation The project also resonates with EDF Renewables UK’s goals. Deanna Greenhalgh, Director of Development at SAS Energy, stated: “This project will contribute towards the decarbonisation of the airport, reducing its energy costs in an uncertain energy environment, and will lead the way in showing how important transport hubs such as London Stansted can progress towards net zero targets.” As global aviation faces increasing scrutiny over its carbon footprint, London Stansted’s solar farm sets a compelling precedent. By harnessing the power of renewable energy, the airport is not only cutting emissions but also serving as a blueprint for how transport hubs can balance growth with environmental responsibility. Key Highlights: 14MW solar farm to be operational by 2025. Supports net zero carbon goal by 2038. Boosts biodiversity with trees, hedgerows, and wildflower meadows. Enhances energy independence for the airport. This bold initiative underscores that innovation and sustainability can soar hand in hand. #Sustainability #NetZero #Aviation #RenewableEnergy #LondonStansted #SolarPower #GreenEnergy
EU Powers Up: Achieving Its Cleanest Energy Mix Yet In 2024
EU Hits a Green Milestone: Cleanest Power Mix in 2024 The European Union continues to set the benchmark for sustainable energy, achieving its cleanest power generation mix ever in 2024. With renewables surging, emissions from the power sector were slashed by 59% compared to 1990 levels, according to Eurelectric. In fact, 2024 saw a 13% drop in emissions compared to 2023, making it a record-breaking year for clean energy. Renewables Lead the Charge Renewables: Contributed an impressive 48% to the EU power generation mix. Nuclear Power: Held steady at 24%, remaining the single largest contributor. Fossil Fuels: Shrunk to their lowest-ever share of 28%. Wind energy maintained its edge over natural gas, while hydro and solar power production surged by 40 TWh year-on-year. That’s enough to meet half of Belgium’s annual power demand or power all of Denmark for a year! Electricity Prices Decline The transition to renewables also brought down electricity costs: Average wholesale prices dropped to €82/MWh from €97/MWh in 2023. For most of the year, prices hovered even lower at €76/MWh, except during the high-demand winter months, when limited wind and solar caused temporary spikes in countries like Germany and Sweden. The Rise of Negative Prices Another notable trend: negative electricity prices were recorded 17% of the time in at least one bidding zone, reflecting how renewable energy can disrupt traditional market dynamics. The Road Ahead Eurelectric’s Policy Director, Cillian O’Donoghue, emphasized that while renewable investments are paying off, more work is needed:“Investing in higher renewable generation is the right path for a competitive and decarbonized economy. But this must be complemented by more flexible capacity to balance variability, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and prevent price spikes.”Electrification also remains key to reaching climate goals. However, demand for electricity is growing at a slower pace than expected—up less than 2% compared to 2023 and still below pre-crisis levels. The decline is partly due to energy efficiency and savings, but over 50% of this reduction is tied to industrial slowdown. Industrial Challenges Germany, Europe’s industrial powerhouse, saw a 13% drop in industrial power consumption in 2023 compared to 2021. This downward trend likely continued in 2024, with industrial production declining 4% year-on-year. A Brighter Future The EU’s achievements in 2024 highlight the potential of renewables to drive down emissions and energy costs. However, it’s clear that sustained investment in flexible and resilient power systems, alongside industrial innovation, will be critical to maintaining momentum in the green energy transition. How do you see renewables shaping our future? #RenewableEnergy #GreenFuture #EUClimateAction #Decarbonization #CleanEnergy #Sustainability