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Unitil Embarks On A Bright Future: Launching A Pioneering Solar Array Project In The US

Illuminating a Sustainable Future: Unitil’s Groundbreaking 5MW Solar Project in New Hampshire

               Unitil Corporation is paving the way to a brighter, greener future with the initiation of an ambitious solar energy project in Kingston, New Hampshire. Destined to be the state’s largest solar initiative, this 5MW project stands as a beacon of progress in renewable energy efforts. Spread across 36 acres of untapped land off Towle Road, the project features a staggering array of 11,232 panels, generating a formidable 4.9MW of power. This venture marks a historic moment as the first solar array owned and operated by a regulated distribution utility company in New Hampshire, showcasing a significant step forward in sustainable energy development. In a move that underscores Unitil’s dedication to renewable energy, the company has chosen ReVision Energy, a leader with 20 years of award-winning solar expertise in New England, as its partner for engineering, procurement, and construction services. Alec O’Meara, Unitil’s External Affairs Director, expresses enthusiasm about the project: “This is more than a solar array; it’s a commitment to our customers and the planet. We’re harnessing the power of the sun to deliver stable, affordable, and eco-friendly energy. It’s all about creating a sustainable future that benefits everyone.”

               Located near an electrical substation, the solar power generated will flow directly into Unitil’s distribution system, significantly reducing the reliance on grid energy. With an expected completion in 2025, the array will initially produce an estimated 9.7 million kilowatt-hours of power annually, averaging 8.6 million kilowatt-hours over its 40-year lifespan. Thanks to innovative single-axis tracking technology, the panels will follow the sun’s path across the sky, maximizing energy capture and efficiency. The Kingston solar project received the green light from the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission in May 2023, with all necessary permits now in place. This project not only aligns with New Hampshire’s renewable energy legislation but also exemplifies Unitil’s capacity to develop up to 18MW of renewable generation, further solidifying its role as a leader in the transition to sustainable energy. Dan Weeks, Vice President of Business Development at ReVision Energy, highlights the broader impacts: “This project is a win-win for the community and the environment. Beyond the substantial savings for ratepayers and the creation of local jobs, we’re making a significant dent in carbon emissions. It’s an honor to collaborate with Unitil on this transformative journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future.” This initiative follows Unitil’s first foray into solar with the 2017 Solarway project in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, which saw the installation of over 3,700 panels. As we look towards the Kingston project’s bright future, it’s clear that Unitil is not just generating power but leading the charge in the renewable energy revolution.#RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #Sustainability #GreenTech #NewHampshireSolar #UnitilSolarProject #EcoFriendlyEnergy #SolarInnovation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: MorgueFile]

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UK Charts A Bold New Course: Exiting The Energy Charter Treaty For A Greener Future

UK Sets a New Climate Agenda: Departing the Energy Charter Treaty for a Greener, Secure Future

In a bold move marking a pivotal moment for its environmental and energy policy, the UK government has announced its decision to exit the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), a step that underscores its commitment to accelerating the transition to net zero and bolstering national energy security. This strategic withdrawal aligns the UK with nine EU member states, including powerhouses like France, Spain, and the Netherlands, signaling a collective shift towards more sustainable and autonomous energy policies.

The ECT, established in 1994, was initially crafted to foster international investment in the energy sector, offering substantial protections for investments, predominantly in fossil fuels. However, the treaty’s compatibility with the urgent global shift towards cleaner, renewable energy sources has been increasingly questioned. Efforts to modernize the ECT to embrace cleaner technologies and support the net zero transition have been mired in protracted discussions, ultimately hitting a deadlock.

Graham Stuart, the UK’s Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero, highlighted the treaty’s obsolescence and the fruitless negotiations for its renewal. Stuart emphasized that remaining tethered to the ECT would not only hinder the UK’s path to cleaner energy but potentially penalize its leading efforts to achieve net zero emissions. “With £30bn invested in the energy sector since September alone, the UK continues to spearhead global emissions reduction, attracting international investment and offering robust legal protections for investors,” Stuart remarked.

Despite previous UK-led efforts to broker a modernized version of the ECT that would retain its benefits while extending protections to renewable energy investments, such as carbon capture, utilization, storage (CCUS), and hydrogen, a consensus could not be reached. The proposed updates, aimed for adoption in November 2022, were ultimately rejected by nine EU member states, including France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands, all of which have since opted to withdraw.

The impending European Parliament elections in 2024 cast further uncertainty on the treaty’s modernization efforts, potentially delaying any progress indefinitely. After thorough consultations with businesses, industry stakeholders, and civil society, the UK government is set to formally initiate its withdrawal from the ECT. This process will culminate in one year, thereafter eliminating protections for new investments under the treaty.

Shaun Spiers, Executive Director of the Green Alliance, lauded the UK’s decision, recognizing it as a significant victory for global climate action. “Civil society organizations and parliamentarians across the spectrum have long criticized the ECT as outdated and counterproductive to climate change mitigation efforts. The UK’s departure from the treaty strengthens the global push towards affordable, clean, and renewable energy,” Spiers stated.

This strategic pivot not only reaffirms the UK’s leadership in the global climate change arena but also propels forward its commitment to a sustainable, secure energy future, free from the constraints of outdated international agreements.

#UKEnergyPolicy #NetZeroTransition #SustainableFuture #EnergyCharterTreaty #ClimateAction #RenewableEnergy #GlobalLeadership

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Parliamentwiki]

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Accelerating The Green Revolution: How COP28 Energizes The Shift To Renewable Energy

Transforming the Future: European Business Leaders Rally Behind COP28 for a Renewable Energy Surge

               In an era where the shift to renewable energy is not just preferable but essential, the upcoming COP28 stands as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. A recent survey conducted by BayWa r.e. reveals an optimistic tide among European business leaders, with a significant 67% in agreement that the outcomes of COP28 will fast-track the renewable energy transition. However, it’s not without its skeptics; 13% fear it may impede progress. The survey, which canvassed over 2,500 business decision-makers across Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, and France, illuminates the diversity of opinions and challenges that dot the European landscape. While the majority are in favor of accelerating the green transition, there’s a palpable concern about the pace, especially when it comes to phasing out fossil fuels—a priority that must be addressed head-on in 2024.

               But how does sentiment vary across Europe? The survey sheds light on differing perspectives:
– In Germany, a cautious 22% believe COP28 might not significantly influence the green transition.
– French business leaders are more pessimistic, with 17% anticipating a slowdown in the transition within their borders. Who’s responsible for steering this green ship? The survey points to national governments (21%) as the primary drivers, though the responsibility also heavily lies with regional organizations (17%), businesses, and citizens (16% each). Interestingly, Spanish business leaders view themselves as key players (21%), while their UK counterparts lean towards regional organizations (20%), despite Brexit. Matthias Taft, CEO of BayWa r.e., underscores the urgency: “We are already more than a third of the way through the decade that matters. Our research highlights the vast challenges we face in accelerating the renewable transition in time.” Encouragingly, European businesses aren’t just spectators in this journey; 80% have embraced green energy strategies, though nearly half (48%) are in the early stages of implementation. The road ahead is fraught with barriers—from the availability of green energy supply and infrastructure (26%) to bureaucratic and cost hurdles. The survey also uncovers unique challenges in different countries, such as skills shortages in France (27%), lack of commitment in Spain (27%), and consumer apathy in Germany (28%). As we stand on the brink of COP28, this survey from BayWa r.e. not only highlights the consensus among European business leaders about the event’s potential to boost the renewable transition but also the myriad challenges that need to be tackled. With a collective effort, there’s hope that this transition can be achieved, making our planet safer and more sustainable for future generations. #COP28 #RenewableEnergy #SustainableFuture #GreenTransition #EuropeanLeaders #BayWareSurvey #EcoOptimism #ClimateAction

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: BayWa r.e.]

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MET Sparks Innovation: Launching A Pioneering Solar PV Project In Hungary!

Harnessing the Sun: MET Group’s Groundbreaking Kaba 2 Solar Project Lights Up Eastern Hungary ☀️🌱 

               In the scenic landscapes of Eastern Hungary, an exciting venture into renewable energy is taking shape. MET Group has embarked on the construction of its seventh solar endeavor, the Kaba 2 project, marking a significant milestone in the region’s sustainable development. Set to illuminate the second half of 2024 with its commercial operations, Kaba 2 isn’t just another solar project. Spanning nearly 32 hectares, this solar haven will host over 33,000 panels, transforming sunlight into clean, renewable energy, and setting a new benchmark for green initiatives in Hungary. Nestled around 200 km east of Budapest, in the welcoming municipality of Kaba, this project is a testament to MET Group’s commitment to greenfield project development. Following the successful commissioning of the MET Kabai Solar Park (KSP) in 2021, Kaba 2 stands as a beacon of progress, driven by the vision of a greener future.

               But there’s a twist that sets Kaba 2 apart – the project management team is leveraging the latest in AI technology. This isn’t just about installing solar panels; it’s about redefining efficiency and precision in solar construction. Drones will soar above, capturing visual data, while sophisticated software analyses every aspect of the construction. From ensuring adherence to design and timelines to preempting errors, this AI-driven approach is about perfecting the art of solar park construction. Imagine a solar park built not just on the foundation of panels and wires but on the cutting-edge of technology, where every decision is informed, every error is anticipated, and efficiency is not just a goal but a guarantee. As we look forward to the activation of Kaba 2, it’s clear that MET Group is not just creating energy; they’re crafting the future of energy in Hungary, one solar panel at a time. With Kaba 2, Eastern Hungary is set to shine brighter than ever, powered by the promise of renewable energy and the brilliance of innovation. 🌞🔋 #SustainableDevelopment #InnovationInEnergy #GreenEnergy #SolarPowerHungary

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: MET Group]

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PLT Energia Joins Forces In Texas: Powering Up A Monumental 1GW Joint Venture!

Energizing the Future: PLT Energia and GGS Energy’s Groundbreaking 1GW Texas Venture 🌟 

               In an electrifying leap towards a sustainable future, PLT Energia’s US arm, PLT Energy US Corp, has forged a powerhouse joint venture (JV) with GGS Energy, setting their sights on developing over 1GW of renewable energy in the heart of Texas. This ambitious collaboration kicks off with the Indigo Project Phase I in West Texas. Envision a vast landscape turning into a beacon of green energy, with 330MW of innovation comprising 150MW of photovoltaic (PV) sunshine and 180MW of energy storage magic. By June 2024, the ground will break, marking the beginning of construction and a new era of energy. PLT US Solar 1, the newly minted JV, boasts an ownership structure that speaks volumes of PLT Energy US Corp’s commitment, holding an 80% stake, while GGS Energy brings its expertise to the remaining 20%.

                 Pierluigi Tortora, the visionary chairman of PLT, shares his excitement about this international foray, stating, “This dynamic JV with GGS Energy catapults PLT into the US market, aligning perfectly with our vision to lead the global renewable energy charge.” GGS Energy, a brainchild of Glacier Global Partners born in 2020, strides into this partnership with a laser focus on utility-scale renewable energy projects, initially zeroing in on PV projects. This collaboration is more than a partnership; it’s a synergy of missions, values, and visions for a greener planet. Yaniv Blumenfeld, GGS energy’s chairman, reflects on this monumental partnership: “Our alliance with PLT Energia is not just about joining hands; it’s about intertwining our ambitions, our dreams, and our commitment to revolutionizing the energy landscape. This JV isn’t just a step forward for GGS; it’s a giant leap towards our shared goal of transforming how energy is produced and consumed.” As PLT Energia and GGS Energy embark on this exhilarating journey, they’re not just building projects; they’re crafting the future of energy, one sustainable watt at a time. Together, they’re not just powering Texas; they’re illuminating the path to a cleaner, greener world. 🌍💡 #GreenEnergy #PLTGGSAlliance #SustainableFuture #RenewableRevolution #TexasEnergyBoom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Asia Chang/Unsplash]

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TotalEnergies Secures A Bright Future With A 59MW Solar Power Oasis In Spain

Illuminating Spain’s Future: TotalEnergies’ Solar Power Leap with the 59MW Dehesa Nueva del Rey 

               TotalEnergies is setting the stage for a brighter, greener future in Spain with its latest acquisition – the 59MW Dehesa Nueva del Rey solar park, a gem nestled in the heart of Spain and crafted by the innovative minds at Synergia. Imagine a sprawling solar oasis, brimming with over 95,000 PV panels, poised to transform sunlight into a clean, sustainable energy source capable of powering more than 33,000 homes annually. This isn’t just a project; it’s a vision turned reality, showcasing TotalEnergies’ commitment to fueling life with renewable energy.

               Dehesa Nueva del Rey isn’t just an addition; it’s a cornerstone in TotalEnergies’ expansive 3GW portfolio of solar dreams, spanning across Madrid, Murcia, Andalusia, Aragon, and Castilla La Mancha. With environmental permits in hand, these projects are set to light up the region with renewable electricity, rivaling the needs of an entire community like Madrid. Yago Mancebo Ferreiro, the visionary leader at TotalEnergies Renewables Spain, shares, “We’re not just participating in Spain’s energy transition; we’re leading it. Our dedication to renewable energies is unwavering, and with projects like Dehesa Nueva del Rey, we’re inching closer to our goal. Boasting a portfolio that now surpasses 4GW, we’re on a mission to redefine energy in Spain, making it sustainable, accessible, and a testament to our commitment as a multi-energy powerhouse. Our journey towards a sustainable future is powered by every panel we install and every watt we generate.”

Join us as we embark on this journey of transformation, lighting up homes and hearts with the power of the sun. TotalEnergies is more than an energy company; it’s a beacon of hope for a sustainable, vibrant Spain. 🌱🔆 #TotalEnergiesSpain #SolarEnergy #SustainableLiving #RenewableEnergy #SolarPowerSpain

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: TotalEnergies]

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Powering Progress: Linxon Triumphs With Completion Of Key Viking Link Substation

 

Energizing the Future: Linxon’s Pivotal Role in the Groundbreaking Viking Link Project

In a monumental stride towards a more interconnected and sustainable energy future, Linxon has successfully completed the extension of the Bicker Fen 400 kV AIS substation, heralding a new era in energy collaboration between the UK and Denmark with the commissioning of the 1400MW Viking Link. This engineering marvel not only symbolizes a significant technological feat but also marks the dawn of shared power resources between the two nations, a first of its kind.

Spanning an impressive 765 km and traversing through British, Dutch, German, and Danish waters, the Viking Link is a testament to international cooperation and engineering excellence. A joint venture between the UK’s National Grid and Denmark’s Energinet, this high voltage direct current (HVDC) electricity link connects Bicker Fen in the UK with Revsing in southern Jutland, Denmark. It’s a lifeline that promises to bolster both countries’ access to clean, green energy, enhancing energy security and sustainability.

Linxon’s involvement in this project, particularly in delivering the Bicker Fen 400 kV AC substation extension in Lincolnshire, UK, underscores the company’s expertise and leadership in energy transmission. The extension, featuring double busbars, a bus coupler, and two user (interconnector) bays, was brought to fruition under a contract awarded in late 2020, showcasing Linxon’s EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) capabilities.

Stefan Reisacher, CEO at Linxon, reflects on the project’s broader implications: “Viking Link offers a broader energy mix, a more sustainable approach to growing energy needs, and ultimately lower prices for consumers in peak consumption periods.” This perspective highlights the project’s potential to not only meet growing energy demands but also to do so in a way that is both sustainable and economically beneficial.

As Linxon celebrates this achievement, the company is already gearing up for its next venture—the Messaure substation in Jokkmokk. This project, which begins in April 2024, aims to connect northern Sweden with Finland via the Aurora Line, set to be commissioned in 2025. It’s a clear indication that Linxon’s commitment to advancing energy transmission solutions remains strong, promising a brighter, more connected future for all.

The Viking Link stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when countries and companies come together in pursuit of a greener, more resilient energy landscape. It’s a beacon of hope and innovation, demonstrating that through collaboration and cutting-edge technology, we can overcome the challenges of our time and pave the way for a sustainable future.

Join the conversation and celebrate this monumental achievement with #VikingLinkSuccess #GreenEnergyFuture #LinxonInnovation #SustainableEnergyForAll.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: Linxon]

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Sunrise In Belgium: Ineos Sets July Launch For Cutting-Edge Solar Power Project

 

A Bright Future: Ineos Inovyn’s Solar Endeavor Lights the Path to Sustainability

In an era where the clarion call for sustainability and environmental stewardship rings louder than ever, Ineos Inovyn has emerged as a beacon of industrial innovation with its latest venture—a 60MW solar farm set to power the heart of Belgium’s chemical industry by July 2024. Developed in collaboration with PerPetum Energy & Green4Power, this pioneering project not only marks a significant leap towards green energy but also symbolizes a commitment to a future where clean power is the cornerstone of industrial operations.

Positioned to energize the bustling Jemeppe production site, home to over 540 dedicated employees, the solar farm is more than just an energy source; it’s a testament to Ineos’s resolve to forge a sustainable path forward. This initiative is a critical component of the company’s ambitious decarbonization roadmap, aiming for a staggering reduction in CO2 emissions by more than 30% by 2030, paving the way for a Net Zero achievement by 2050.

The significance of this project extends beyond its environmental benefits; it represents a strategic pivot towards providing customers with low-carbon products, crucial for the global transition to a Net Zero economy. Philippe Taranti, the dynamic director at Ineos Inovyn’s Jemeppe site, encapsulates this vision, stating, “I am proud of the industry leadership we are showing. Ineos products play a vital role across modern life, and this new solar farm gives us competitive access to local renewable energy.”

The collaboration with PerPetum Energy ensures the project’s seamless build, commissioning, and maintenance phases, while Green4Power’s financial investment and ownership of the solar farm underscore a shared commitment to sustainable development. Under a forward-thinking power purchase agreement, Ineos Inovyn will acquire all the green electricity generated at Jemeppe-sur-Sambre for the next 15 years, ensuring a consistent supply of renewable energy.

As the countdown to the solar farm’s operational debut begins, the project stands as a shining example of how traditional industries can pivot towards sustainability without compromising on their core mission. Ineos Inovyn’s solar initiative not only illuminates the path to decarbonization but also demonstrates the tangible benefits of embracing renewable energy sources, setting a precedent for others to follow in the quest for a cleaner, greener planet.

Join us in celebrating this monumental step towards environmental responsibility with #IneosSolarJourney #GreenChemistry #SustainableFuture #RenewableEnergyRevolution.

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Ineos]

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Sun-Powered Future: UK’s Latest Solar Farm Gets Green Light For Development

 

Harnessing the Sun: Yorkshire’s Leap Towards Renewable Energy

In an inspiring move towards a greener future, the City of York Council has given the green light to a groundbreaking project that promises to transform the landscape of renewable energy in the county of Yorkshire, UK. The approval of the Hessay project, a massive 50MW solar farm, marks a significant milestone in the region’s journey towards sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Nestled south of Low Moor Lane, delicately positioned between the serene villages of Hessay and Rufforth, this ambitious project spearheaded by Solar2 is set to redefine how communities engage with renewable energy. Richard Morgan, the visionary Head of Solar at Solar2, expressed his excitement over the council’s decision, emphasizing the collaborative effort that made this achievement possible. “We’re thrilled that the Council has approved plans for the solar farm,” Morgan stated, acknowledging the invaluable input and support from the local community and stakeholders throughout the planning stages.

The project’s approval wasn’t just a win for Solar2 but a testament to the power of community engagement and thoughtful planning. By working closely with the local populace and addressing their concerns, Solar2 has crafted a blueprint that not only respects the environmental sanctity of Yorkshire but also promises to minimize potential impacts on the picturesque landscape.

With planning permission now secured, the focus shifts towards the future, where Solar2 aims to foster strong partnerships with development partners, local parish councils, and the community at large. A key component of this next phase is the discussion around the Community Benefit Fund, a gesture of goodwill and shared prosperity that underscores the project’s commitment to not just harnessing solar energy but also enriching the local community.

As Yorkshire stands on the cusp of a renewable energy revolution, the Hessay solar farm project serves as a beacon of progress, innovation, and communal harmony. It’s a vivid reminder that the path to sustainability is paved with collaboration, respect for nature, and a shared vision for a brighter, cleaner future.

Join the conversation and be a part of this green revolution with #YorkshireSolarRevolution #GreenEnergyUK #SustainableFuture #CommunityPower.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Unsplash/Andres Siimon]

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TagEnergy Ignites The Future: Achieving Financial Milestone For Revolutionary Scottish Battery Project

 

 TagEnergy’s Trailblazing Journey: Energizing Scotland with the Pitkevy BESS Project

In the scenic expanse of Fife, Scotland, a revolution in energy storage is taking place, heralded by TagEnergy’s latest milestone: the financial closure of the Pitkevy facility. This marks not just another chapter in TagEnergy’s ambitious expansion across the UK but a significant leap towards sustainable energy solutions. With this being their sixth battery energy storage system (BESS) project in the country, TagEnergy is lighting up the path to a greener future with innovation and strategic partnerships.

 Financing the Future of Energy

The Pitkevy project, boasting an impressive 49.9MW/99.8MWh capacity, has secured a pioneering green loan package of up to £70m. This financial feat was accomplished with the support of Santander UK, Rabobank, and Triple Point, under a fully merchant basis, showcasing a bold move towards financing the future of renewable energy. The project benefits from an innovative funding structure that was initially crafted for the Lakeside BESS project, featuring an uncommitted accordion facility that facilitated the inclusion of Pitkevy.

 A Symphony of Partnerships

TagEnergy’s venture into the BESS landscape is distinguished by its first split-contract project, featuring Tesla’s cutting-edge Megapack 2 XL battery system. This strategic collaboration, coupled with RJ McLeod’s expertise in site works and installation, underscores the project’s groundbreaking approach to energy storage.

Further strengthening this venture are partnerships with Flexitricity, serving as the route to market and battery optimiser, and RES, an independent renewable energy company, appointed as the asset manager. This ensemble of expertise ensures that the Pitkevy facility is not just an energy project, but a beacon of innovation and sustainability.

 A United Front for a Sustainable Future

The financing and execution of the Pitkevy project reflect a united front of financial, technical, and operational partners committed to advancing the UK’s energy transition. The involvement of IDCM, TLT, Burges Salmon, Aurora Energy Research, Everoze, WTW, Ester, and RSM in arranging the debt and providing advisory services highlights the collaborative effort to bring this project to life.

Franck Woitiez, Chief Executive at TagEnergy, encapsulates the essence of this initiative, stating, “We are proud to leverage this landmark debt package to bring another facility to life as we work to add stability to the grid and accelerate the energy transition towards net zero.” This sentiment echoes TagEnergy’s commitment to not just expanding their footprint in the UK, but doing so in a manner that benefits both people and the planet.

 Energizing the Future

As TagEnergy’s secured portfolio reaches an impressive 320MW, the Pitkevy facility stands as a testament to the potential of renewable energy storage in supporting the grid and fostering a sustainable future. This project is more than just a technological achievement; it’s a step towards realizing the vision of a net-zero world, powered by innovative solutions and strategic collaborations.

In a world eager for sustainable energy solutions, TagEnergy’s Pitkevy project in Fife, Scotland, is not just a beacon of progress but a blueprint for the future of energy storage and renewable resources. Let’s watch as this initiative sparks a revolution, powering our homes, our communities, and our future with clean, reliable energy.

#RenewableEnergy #SustainableScotland #BESSInnovation #CleanEnergyTransition #TagEnergy #FutureIsNow

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: TagEnergy]