Tag: Sustainable Growth

Unlocking a Brighter Future: Solar Energy UK Calls for Ambitious 60GW Target by 2030

Solar Energy UK is urging the government to triple the country’s solar generation capacity to 60GW by 2030, presenting it as a game-changing opportunity to lower electricity costs, cut emissions, and secure energy independence. Backed by research from Durham University Energy Institute, the call highlights the transformative potential of scaling up solar energy in the UK. The analysis shows that hitting this ambitious target would:

• Lower Energy Costs: Reducing electricity costs by 12% compared to current projections.
• Strengthen Energy Security: Decreasing reliance on expensive natural gas imports.
• Accelerate Clean Energy Goals: Helping deliver clean power by 2030 while reducing dependence on unproven carbon capture technologies.

The Case for 60GW:
Solar Energy UK emphasizes that a 60GW target isn’t just ambitious but essential to de-risk the UK’s Clean Power Plan. Achieving this would diversify energy sources, maximize wind generation efficiency, and build a sustainable energy future. In contrast, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) proposed a modest 47.4GW capacity by 2030, relying on outdated assumptions. Solar Energy UK countered this, estimating the true capacity by the end of 2024 will already approach 20GW, thanks to growing solar farms, rooftop installations, and local initiatives like London’s Warm Homes Fund and Future Homes Standard. Chris Hewitt, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, stated:
“Solar and batteries can be deployed rapidly, offering the government an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate clean power delivery. Setting a goal to treble solar capacity to 60GW will provide the lowest-cost, home-grown energy while creating thousands of secure jobs. However, we must reform the grid connection process to ensure ready-to-build renewable projects are not delayed for years.”

Current Solar Progress:

• Operational Capacity: 11.5GW of solar farms, 8.5GW on rooftops (residential, commercial, industrial).
• Pipeline Projects: 3GW under construction, 11GW with planning consent.
• 2024 Projection: 20GW total capacity.

With rooftop capacity surging and 3GW of solar farms being built, this bold vision is within reach. Solar Energy UK is rallying support from over 400 members, industry data, and the public to make the case for this transformative target.

The Impact:
By aiming higher, the UK can lead the charge in renewable energy, creating a more resilient energy system, slashing costs, and providing thousands of new jobs—all while safeguarding the environment. #SolarRevolution #RenewableEnergy #NetZero #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #EnergyIndependence #SolarPower #GreenJobs #FutureIsSolar

Rio Tinto and Bechtel Join Forces for a Sustainable Future with Utah Solar Project

Bechtel has been chosen by Rio Tinto to lead the design and construction of the 25MW Copperton Phase 2 Solar project in Utah, a key step towards powering operations at the Kennecott mine—one of the world’s largest open-pit copper mines. This groundbreaking partnership marks Bechtel’s first venture with Rio Tinto in renewable energy, emphasizing both companies’ commitment to sustainable solutions and Rio Tinto’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. 

The Copperton Phase 2 Solar project represents a bold move toward greener mining practices. Scott Austin, Bechtel’s General Manager of Renewables & Clean Power, shared:
“We are thrilled to expand our long-standing relationship with Rio Tinto into clean energy. This project embodies climate commitments in action, and we’re excited to deliver this innovative renewable power solution.”

When completed in late 2025, this solar farm will cover 210 acres, utilizing 71,000 high-efficiency bifacial solar modules to generate clean energy. Bechtel plans to leverage advanced digital delivery methods and cutting-edge autonomous technologies for optimal construction and commissioning. At its peak, the project will create 100 local construction jobs, boosting the regional economy.

Rio Tinto Kennecott Managing Director, Nate Foster, added:
“Expanding our solar farm is another critical step in reducing our carbon footprint. Alongside initiatives like closing coal-fired power plants, deploying electric vehicles underground, and transitioning to renewable diesel, we’re proving that sustainable practices can go hand-in-hand with resource production to benefit both our company and community.”

This new 25MW facility will sit adjacent to Kennecott’s existing 5MW solar plant, enhancing the mine’s renewable energy capacity.

Highlights of the Copperton Phase 2 Solar Project:

• Supports Rio Tinto’s decarbonization efforts and Kennecott mine operations.
• 71,000 bifacial solar modules spread across 210 acres.
• Incorporates advanced technologies and digital methods for efficient delivery.
• Creates 100 local construction jobs at peak.

This partnership showcases the mining industry’s ability to integrate clean energy solutions while driving economic growth and community benefits.

#CleanEnergy #Sustainability #SolarPower #MiningInnovation #Decarbonization #Bechtel #RioTinto #RenewableEnergy

Cubico Sustainable Investments has launched the second phase of public consultation for the 130MW Frodsham Solar Farm, located north of Frodsham in Cheshire, England. This project is a step forward for clean energy, aiming to power over 40,000 homes by 2029 and align with the vision for a Net Zero North West by 2040. Frodsham Solar also supports Cheshire West and Chester’s goal to reach net zero by 2045, contributing to a sustainable future for the community. 

Clean Energy Vision Frodsham Solar’s plans feature ground-mounted solar panels combined with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), ensuring reliable energy for peak demand periods. Located alongside the existing 50MW Frodsham wind farm and near the Protos energy hub, the project will contribute clean electricity directly into the regional grid via the Frodsham substation. Additionally, a “private-wire connection” will enable power generated on-site to be supplied directly to local industries, helping to meet high regional demand while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. 

Enhancing the Local Landscape and Community This project goes beyond energy production; it includes 4.5 km of new paths, improved public rights of way, and biodiversity support initiatives. Plus, Cubico is committing over £2 million to a Community Fund to support local initiatives, including addressing fuel poverty, job training, and other community-driven needs. 

Get Involved! After an initial consultation in June and July 2023, Cubico is now inviting feedback on its revised plans from 14 November until 19 December 2024. Local residents can participate by attending information events, completing online feedback forms, or joining a virtual session. Feedback is crucial for shaping the project to meet community needs, and Cubico encourages all interested individuals to share their insights. 

Upcoming Information Events: Cubico will be hosting five in-person events and an online webinar, allowing attendees to learn more and speak with the project team directly:

• Christchurch Hall, Weston Point – Monday, 25 Nov, 3pm–7pm
• Helsby Community Centre – Tuesday, 26 Nov, 2pm–6:30pm
• Elton Community Centre – Friday, 29 Nov, 3pm–7pm
• Frodsham Community Centre – Saturday, 30 Nov, 1:30pm–5:30pm and Monday, 2 Dec, 2:30pm–6:30pm
• Online Community Webinar via Zoom – Wednesday, 4 Dec, 6pm–7:30pm (register on the project website)

How to Share Feedback: Community members can submit feedback by filling out the online form on the project website www.frodshamsolar.co.uk, by attending an event, or by contacting Cubico via email (info@frodshamsolar.co.uk) or by writing to their freepost address (FREEPOST FRODSHAM CONSULTATION). The deadline for feedback is Thursday, 19 December 2024.

Frodsham Solar Development Manager Mark Flaherty shared, “This project is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the region’s low-carbon industry, support clean energy goals, and reduce energy costs. We’re eager to build on our community relationships and encourage everyone to get involved.” Join us in shaping a brighter, cleaner future for Cheshire!  #CleanEnergy #FrodshamSolar #NetZeroNorthWest #SustainableFuture #CommunityEngagement #SolarEnergy #GreenEnergy #BatteryStorage #Cubico

Better Energy’s 24MW Studsvik Solar Park Now Live, Powering Swedish Sustainability

Better Energy’s 24MW Studsvik Solar Park in Sweden is now officially connected to the grid! This solar park represents a leap forward for Swedish renewable energy, as it supplies green power to top companies committed to sustainability. Through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), Vestre, Scan Global Logistics, and Nolato will be sourcing clean energy from Studsvik over the next 10 years. Leaders from these companies emphasize their commitment to a sustainable future:

Bjorn Fjellstad, CEO at Vestre: “By buying power from renewable projects, we’re making green energy more accessible and working toward our goal of becoming a net producer of energy by 2030.” Martin Andersen, Global Head of Sustainability & ESG at Scan Global Logistics: “This is now the second Better Energy solar park we’re partnering with. The green electricity we procure from Studsvik supports our sustainability goals and gives us clearer control over energy costs.” Christer Wahlquist, CEO of Nolato: “Sourcing green electricity from Studsvik is the right choice for our business and the environment, helping us become a more sustainable company.” Andreas Brännström, Managing Director of Better Energy Sweden, expressed the bigger vision: “The Swedish energy sector must work together to transition away from fossil-based energy. Our partnerships with PPA collaborators, Studsvik, Senergia, and Vattenfall, demonstrate how we can collectively drive the Swedish energy transition forward.” The new solar park showcases the power of collaboration in the renewable energy sector and the commitment of these companies to a sustainable future. Let’s keep pushing for clean energy and supporting projects like Studsvik that make a positive impact!  #BetterEnergy #StudsvikSolarPark #Sweden #RenewableEnergy #GreenEnergy #SustainableFuture #PPAPartnership #CleanEnergy #EnergyTransition #SolarPower #ClimateAction