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Acciona Energía Powers Up Spain With 47MW Hybrid Renewable Milestone

Acciona Energía Completes 47MW Hybrid Renewable Energy Plant in Spain 

Acciona Energía has successfully completed a new hybrid renewable energy plant in Spain, further strengthening the country’s sustainable energy infrastructure. The project combines a 19.7MW solar array with the pre-existing 26MW Peralejo wind farm located in the municipalities of Villalba del Rey and Tinajas, Cuenca.

This innovative development is Acciona’s second hybrid plant where two renewable technologies share a single connection point, allowing for optimized grid use. By integrating both wind and solar energy, the plant minimizes dependence on specific weather conditions, ensuring a more consistent and reliable energy output.

Additionally, the shared infrastructure—such as power lines, substations, and access roads—reduces the need for new construction, significantly lowering the environmental footprint compared to separate projects.

During its peak construction phase, the project provided over 100 local jobs, contributing to the community’s economic development. Acciona Energía’s hybridisation efforts also include its first hybrid project, Escepar (29.4MW solar and 36MW wind), and the Bolarque solar plant (50MW), both of which are in Villalba del Rey and Tinajas. #RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #WindEnergy #SustainableFuture #AccionaEnergia #HybridEnergy #GreenTransition #CleanEnergy #SpainRenewables #JobCreation

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German Utility Lights Up The Market With 700MW Solar Deal

German Utility enviaM Group Takes On Ambitious 700MW Solar Projects

German utility enviaM Group has embarked on an impressive solar journey, undertaking projects with a total potential of more than 700MW in central Germany. This significant venture is a collaborative effort between enviaM subsidiary envia THERM and the ASG Group under the joint venture Ventura Holding. The goal of this partnership is to accelerate the expansion of renewable energies in the region, bolstering central Germany as a green business and industrial hub. Patrick Kather, enviaM Board Member for Production and Sales, emphasized the scale of the project, stating, “The solar parks under development have an output of more than 700MW. This is immensely big. In purely mathematical terms, this corresponds to the electricity requirements of 270,000 households per year. The project is one of the largest and most important initiatives in the enviaM group and drives the establishment of business and industry that rely on green energy.”

Thomas Kühnert, Managing Director of envia THERM GmbH, added, “In order to achieve the planned business growth with regional energy solutions, we want to significantly expand electricity generation from wind and solar power plants in the next few years. The cooperation and joint venture with the ASG Group is therefore an optimal complement to our activities in central Germany.” The solar projects are primarily located in Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, and Saxony. The first building permit for a solar park with around 72MWp in southern Brandenburg is expected in 2024. Radenko Krpelj, Chief Executive of ASG Versum, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are pleased to have found a regionally known, competent, and strong partner in envia THERM who values our skills in developing projects ready for construction. Both companies share the goal of making the energy supply in their shared home region sustainable.” The cooperation between envia THERM and the ASG Group, along with the associated transaction, was notarized and completed on August 1, 2024. Over the next few years, the planned systems will be built gradually as they become ready for construction, with the generated green electricity being used in conjunction with battery storage in regional energy solutions. #SolarPower #RenewableEnergy #GreenEnergy #SustainableFuture #CleanEnergy #CentralGermany #EnergyTransition #SolarProjects #GreenBusiness #EnvironmentalImpact

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Exploring Renewable Energy Projects On Royal Land

Prince of Wales Explores Renewable Energy Projects on Duchy of Cornwall Estate

The Prince of Wales is actively exploring opportunities to develop renewable energy and storage projects across the expansive Duchy of Cornwall estate. This initiative could transform over 52,000 hectares of private land, predominantly located in the southwest of England, into hubs for solar, onshore wind, and other renewable energy infrastructures as part of the estate’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2032.

A Kensington Palace spokesperson shared with reNEWS: “Achieving a balance between financial results, protecting the natural environment, and supporting our communities has always been at the heart of the Duchy. We continue to investigate opportunities for the generation and storage of renewable energy across the estate.”

According to a report in The Observer, the Prince of Wales, who serves as the steward of the duchy in his role as the 25th Duke of Cornwall, has commissioned a comprehensive review of renewable energy options on the estate. This review includes potential for large-scale solar farms, geothermal projects, and onshore wind turbines. The findings of this study are expected to be reviewed by the Prince later this year, with officials eager to explore support for wind turbines—a notable shift from King Charles’ earlier stance against onshore wind during his tenure as Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall.

Despite the potential for significant renewable energy developments, it is unlikely that the entire duchy land will be opened to developers. Any new proposals will need to carefully consider landscape and visual impacts due to the estate’s location in some of the most picturesque parts of the southwest.

Alastair Martin, Secretary and Keeper of the Records at the Duchy of Cornwall, emphasized at a recent press briefing: “The issue with the Duchy of Cornwall estate is that it happens to be in some of the most beautiful parts of the southwest of England particularly, and there are always aesthetic considerations. And I’m sure those are not going to go away because we’ve got a new Duke.”

This proactive move by the Prince of Wales underscores a strong commitment to sustainability and the future of renewable energy, balancing ecological integrity with community support and financial viability.

#RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #PrinceofWales #DuchyofCornwall #NetZero #SolarPower #WindEnergy #Geothermal #CleanEnergy #EcoFriendly #GreenFuture

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Luminus Charges Up With Plans For Massive Belgian Battery

Belgium’s Luminus Unveils Ambitious 100MW Battery Project in Ghent

Exciting news is coming out of Ghent! Belgian energy producer Luminus is taking a major step towards a sustainable future with their latest venture: a 100MW battery project at the Ringvaart power plant.

Powering Up with Innovation

Luminus has officially submitted a permit application for this groundbreaking storage park, which will seamlessly connect to the ELIA grid in the Ghent canal zone. This project is set to be a game-changer, addressing the ever-growing need for flexibility and stability in our electricity grid.

A Boost for the Community

Imagine a site with a 100MW capacity and an impressive storage capacity of 400MWh—enough to cover the daily consumption of 42,000 families! This ambitious project aims to be up and running by the end of 2026, bringing significant benefits to the community and beyond.

Leading the Renewable Energy Charge

“As number one in wind energy on the mainland and hydropower in Belgium, we are fully committed to renewable energy,” says Luminus CEO Grégoire Dallemagne. With battery projects like the ones in Ringvaart and Lixhe in Wallonia, Luminus is paving the way for greater grid flexibility and the continued growth of renewable energy sources.

A Sustainable Shift

Interestingly, the 400MWh battery project at Ringvaart will replace Luminus’ previous plan to install two to six open-cycle gas turbines at the same location. This shift underscores their dedication to sustainable energy solutions. Rest assured, the existing power plant will remain operational, ensuring no disruption to current energy supplies.

Stay tuned as this exciting project progresses and join us in celebrating another step towards a greener, more sustainable future!

#Luminus #RenewableEnergy #BatteryStorage #Sustainability #GreenEnergy #Ghent #EnergyInnovation

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Luminus]

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ABO Energy Secures Green Light For Revolutionary Battery Projects In Northern Ireland!

ABO Energy Secures Approval for Groundbreaking 335MW Battery Projects in Northern Ireland!

ABO Energy has achieved a major milestone by securing planning approval for two significant battery energy storage schemes in Northern Ireland, with a combined capacity of 335MW/670MWh. These innovative projects are set to revolutionize the region’s energy landscape and play a crucial role in the transition to renewable electricity.

🔋 Enhancing Grid Flexibility:
These battery energy storage systems (BESS) will enhance the flexibility of the transmission grid, facilitating greater integration of renewable electricity. By storing power during off-peak times and delivering it when needed, these projects will ensure a reliable and resilient energy supply for homes and businesses across Northern Ireland.

🌿 Supporting Renewable Targets:
Energy storage is a key requirement for Northern Ireland to meet its ambitious renewable electricity consumption target of at least 80% by 2030, as outlined in the Climate Change Act. The Magherafelt Battery Energy Storage Scheme in Mid Ulster, with a capacity of 195MW/390MWh, and the Coolkeeragh Battery Energy Storage System in Foyle Port, providing 140MW/280MWh of storage, are strategically positioned to support this goal.

💡 Driving Economic Growth:
With a combined investment value exceeding £100 million, these projects will not only contribute to the energy transition but also provide a significant economic boost to the local economy. ABO Energy’s plans to develop £8 billion worth of schemes across the UK highlight their commitment to advancing modern, green infrastructure.

🌟 Leadership and Collaboration:
Patricia McGrath, ABO Energy’s Head of Project Development in Northern Ireland, expressed her gratitude: “Northern Ireland has huge potential to reduce its reliance on imported and expensive fossil fuels, but achieving that goal requires modern, green infrastructure. These projects, located at strategic points in the transmission network, will play a vital role in achieving the region’s renewable electricity target.”

She added, “I would like to thank our specialist teams in Northern Ireland and Germany for their efforts to bring the projects to this point. We are also appreciative of the professional approach taken by both Mid Ulster and Derry City and Strabane District Councils, who clearly recognize the urgent need to support Northern Ireland’s energy transition.”

🔗 Join the Renewable Revolution:
Stay tuned for more updates on these transformative projects and how they will shape the future of energy in Northern Ireland.

#ABOEnergrgy #RenewableEnergy #BatteryStorage #CleanEnergy #GreenInfrastructure #EnergyTransition #SustainableFuture #NorthernIreland #RenewableGoals #ClimateAction #EconomicBoost #Innovation #GreenEnergy #GridStability #NetZero

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: ABO Energy]

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Is This The UK’s Battery Breakthrough? SSE Project Reaches Milestone

Powering the Peak: Massive Battery Arrives at Ferrybridge! 

The future of clean energy storage is rolling into West Yorkshire! SSE’s incredible 150MW battery project at Ferrybridge just reached a major milestone with the arrival of the first of 136 battery units.

This colossal project will be three times the size of SSE’s first battery storage facility and once operational, could keep the lights on for nearly a quarter of a million homes during peak demand! That’s some serious power!

This innovative project is key to unlocking the full potential of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power in the UK. By storing excess energy during low-demand periods, Ferrybridge will ensure a more reliable and sustainable grid for everyone. ♻️

Construction is moving smoothly with OCU Energy leading the installation alongside crane specialists Notus Contract Lifting. The remaining batteries and a crucial 132kV transformer will be arriving soon, with completion expected by late 2024.

This is just the beginning for SSE! They have two more massive battery storage projects underway – a whopping 320MW facility in Monk Fryston and another 150MW project at Fiddler’s Ferry. The future of clean energy is bright in the UK! ☀️

Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking project! #FerrybridgeBattery #SSErenewables #BatteryStorage #RenewableEnergy #UKPower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: SSE]

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Jobs, Growth, and Green Energy: Why Wales Needs A Renewables Boost

Wales Calls for Accelerated Renewable Energy Transition: A Four Nations Approach 

RenewableUK Cymru, a leading renewable energy industry body, has issued a formal call to action in its 2024 manifesto. The organization urges the incoming UK Government to prioritize a rapid transition towards renewable energy sources for Wales.

The Need for Increased Capacity:

The manifesto highlights the critical need for a significant increase in wind power capacity, both onshore and offshore, to meet the rising demand for clean electricity. The current reliance on non-renewable sources, with only 25% of Wales’ energy generation coming from renewables, poses a challenge for energy security and environmental sustainability.

Proposed Solution: A Four Nations Taskforce

RenewableUK Cymru proposes the establishment of a “Four Nations Taskforce” to streamline policies between the UK and Welsh Governments. This collaborative effort would facilitate faster decision-making and eliminate bureaucratic hurdles impeding renewable energy projects.

Public Support for Renewables

The manifesto emphasizes the strong public support for renewable energy in Wales. Polling data demonstrates that a vast majority of Welsh residents (90%) view renewable energy as a key issue for the next government, with a significant number (63%) advocating for increased investment. Public backing extends to grid infrastructure development, with 62% supporting a new grid network to accelerate renewable energy rollout.

Call to Action:

Jess Hooper, Director of RenewableUK Cymru, underscores the urgency of decisive action. She emphasizes the need for a clear and ambitious plan to address the current shortfall in renewable energy projects. With the global energy landscape rapidly evolving, Wales risks falling behind without a proactive approach.

Conclusion:

RenewableUK Cymru’s manifesto presents a compelling case for a rapid transition to renewable energy in Wales. The proposed Four Nations Taskforce signifies a commitment to collaboration and efficiency. By prioritizing clean energy, Wales can ensure a secure energy future, promote economic growth, and contribute to a more sustainable planet. #WalesRenewables #GreenEnergy #UKPolitics

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Unsplash/Alex Eckermann]

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BayWa r.e. Energizes New Solar Plant In Spain

               BayWa r.e. has powered up its first agri-solar park in Spain, a 54MW facility near Granada, providing renewable power to Velux Group. This innovative solar park combines agriculture and biodiversity initiatives, ensuring sustainable practices and environmental benefits. The Alhendin-based solar plant, now fully operational and connected to the Spanish electricity grid, features over 85,000 solar panels. Approximately 10% of the park is designed to accommodate farming machinery, supporting agricultural activities alongside energy production.

               The park includes various biodiversity initiatives such as baseline studies, digitalization and monitoring of vegetation, grass planting with natural seeds and wildflower species, wildlife refuges, ponds for amphibians, bird drinking tanks, nest boxes, posts, and a hatching area for the endangered Lesser Kestrel bird species. This project is financed through a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Velux Group, which also announced another PPA in November 2022 with BayWa r.e. for a solar park in Gerena, near Seville. The Gerena solar park, expected to be 60MW in size, is awaiting regulatory approval and is scheduled for completion in 2025. Daniel Gafke, Global Director of Projects and Executive Member of the Board at BayWa r.e., expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to support Velux in reaching its goal of 100% renewable electricity for its European operations. This achievement represents an important milestone in BayWa r.e.’s own commitment to advancing the corporate energy transition that is so pivotal for meeting global climate targets. We are aligned with Velux to go above and beyond normal standards, which allows us to implement pioneering elements like agri-PV, as well as improving biodiversity and fostering community engagement, for maximum local value creation.”#SustainableEnergy #AgriPV #RenewablePower #VeluxGroup #BayWare #SolarEnergy #Biodiversity #GreenEnergy #EnergyTransition #ClimateAction

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: BayWa r.e.]

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Ib Vogt Clinches Major Financing Deal For A Stunning 418MW Solar Power Project In Spain

 

Ib Vogt Illuminates Spain with a Groundbreaking 418MW Solar Power Triumph

               In an impressive stride toward a greener future, Ib Vogt has brilliantly sealed the financial deal for a colossal 418MW solar energy portfolio, casting a new light on Spain’s renewable energy landscape. Nestled in the scenic expanses of Segovia, within the vibrant autonomous community of Castile and Leon, this solar venture is not just about power generation—it’s a bold statement on sustainable development. With a whopping €350 million in debt financing, orchestrated through the collaborative efforts of esteemed financial institutions Nord/LB, Santander CIB, and BBVA, this project stands as a beacon of innovation and financial synergy. The backing by these banking giants underscores the project’s robustness and the unwavering commitment to propel Spain into a cleaner, renewable future.

              The solar ensemble features three stellar projects—Serbal, Castano, and Pato—each a testament to cutting-edge technology and environmental stewardship. These projects are engineered to harness the sun’s bounty like never before, thanks to high-efficiency bifacial modules and sophisticated single-axis tracker systems. These installations are not just solar arrays; they are the future of energy, designed to maximize the sun’s potential. Under the meticulous care of Ib Vogt, which is spearheading the full engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) efforts, the wheels of progress have already begun to turn, with construction underway across all three sites. The timeline is set, with Serbal and Castano gearing up for commercial operations by December 2024, and Pato poised to shine in the first quarter of 2025. But the journey doesn’t end at construction. Ib Vogt will continue to shepherd these projects through their lifecycle, managing both operation and maintenance (O&M) and asset management, ensuring these solar marvels not only reach but exceed their potential.

               Anton Milner, Ib Vogt’s visionary CEO, reflects on this achievement as a testament to enduring partnerships and a deep-seated commitment to renewable energy in Spain. Meanwhile, Heiko Ludwig of Nord/LB, champions the collaboration as a pivotal moment for Spain’s energy transition, highlighting the Iberian renewable energy market as a cornerstone of their sustainable future endeavors. This monumental project marks a significant milestone in the journey toward sustainability, embodying the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and environmental responsibility. It’s a clear signal that the future is bright, and it’s powered by the sun.

#RenewableEnergy #SolarPower #Sustainability #Innovation #GreenTech #SpainSolarRevolution #IbVogtSolarJourney #CleanEnergyFuture #SustainableDevelopment #RenewablesFinance

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: [Image: Ib Vogt]

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Good Energy Acquires Prominent UK Solar Power Innovator

 

               In a groundbreaking move for the renewable energy sector, Good Energy Group has taken a monumental step by entering into a strategic acquisition of JPS Renewable Energy, a frontrunner in solar and storage solutions, along with its subsidiary, Trust Solar Wholesale. This marks a pivotal moment for the Maidstone, Kent-based specialist, setting a new benchmark in the industry’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. The deal, valued at a striking £13.75 million, is structured on a debt-free, cash-free basis, blending an upfront cash payment with a share-based transaction. The initial £7 million consideration is cleverly partitioned between a £3.7 million cash payment upon completion and the innovative allotment of 1,322,000 new ordinary shares. This approach not only underscores the financial savvy of Good Energy but also reflects a strong confidence in the merged entity’s future prospects.

               Good Energy’s decision to partially finance the acquisition through a vendor placing of 842,000 shares, at a notable discount, highlights the attractiveness of this investment to both parties. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 12-month lock-up period for the remaining shares ensures a shared commitment to the long-term success of this venture. This acquisition is not just a financial transaction but a strategic expansion that cements Good Energy’s status as the UK’s premier solar specialist. Nigel Pocklington, the visionary CEO of Good Energy, emphasizes the timeliness of this acquisition, pointing out the solar sector’s explosive growth in the UK and its critical role in the country’s energy decarbonization efforts. With the solar installation market experiencing an impressive 38% growth in 2023, the JPS Group’s specialization in catering to the high-end market of larger homes and complex installations positions Good Energy to capitalize on this surging demand. This merger is a calculated move to not only enhance Good Energy’s product offerings but also to significantly broaden its market reach and influence.

               Integrating JPS Group under the Good Energy umbrella is expected to fortify the company’s market presence, affirming its expertise in solar and storage solutions. It also opens avenues for introducing Good Energy’s extensive green product suite to a new and eager customer base, aligning perfectly with the company’s mission to promote a sustainable and greener future. As we witness this transformative collaboration, it’s clear that Good Energy is not just participating in the renewable energy movement; it’s leading it. With over 180,000 solar generator customers and a rich history of innovation, Good Energy is poised to make an indelible impact on the UK’s energy landscape.

Let’s celebrate this milestone in our journey towards a sustainable future with #RenewableEnergyInnovation #GoodEnergyGrowth #SolarPowerExpansion #GreenEnergyUK #SustainableFuture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credits: [Image: SXC]