[USA] Energy storage projects in 18 states get $2.2B from DOE

On August 6, 2024, the US Department of Energy (DOE) announced eight selections for the next round of the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program to expand the power grid’s flexibility and resilience against the threats of extreme weather and climate change. [1] The funding was specifically allocated for the Grid Innovation Program, one of three branches of GRIP. The second round will support 8 projects from 18 states, composing a total of $2.2 billion in federal investment, potentially expanding grid capacity by almost 13GW. The projects include 600 miles of new transmission, 400 miles of reconductored wiring, grid-enhancing technology, long-term energy storage, solar energy, and microgrids. Project sponsors will provide approximately $7.8 billion in additional funding.

The awards are part of the Biden Administration’s effort to advance a modernized grid, energy security, reliability, and clean, affordable energy. Some of the winning projects include the North Plains Connector Interregional Innovation project, the California Harnessing Advanced Reliable Grid Enhancing Technologies for Transmission project, Power Up New England, Maine by Form Energy, and more.

[1] https://www.energy.gov/gdo/grid-resilience-and-innovation-partnerships-grip-program-projects

[USA] Natural gas electricity generation in the United States spiked with the July heatwave.

On July 25, 2024, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) released a report explaining a recent spike in natural gas electricity generation in the United States. [1] Based on a graph spanning January 1, 2019, to July 16, 2024, daily natural gas electricity generation in the Lower 48 states peaked in July with the onset of the heatwave. US power plant operators have generated the most electricity from natural gas since 2019, at 6.9 million megawatt-hours (MWh). The spike, recorded on July 9, occurred due to high temperatures across most of the country as well as  low wind generation. According to the National Weather Service, most of the US experienced temperatures well above average on July 9, 2024, especially in the East Coast and West Coast. Wind generation in the Lower 48 states totaled 0.3 million MWh on July 9, which was much lower than the 1.3 million MWh daily average in June of the same year.

[1] https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=62604

[USA] BSEE issued a suspension order to halt construction at Vineyard Wind farm

On July 17, 2024, the US Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) issued a suspension order to halt construction at the Vineyard Wind farm. [1] After a Vineyard Wind turbine blade suffered damage and scattered fiberglass debris in the ocean, the BSEE was forced to shut down operations for the foreseeable future. GE Vernova, the turbine and blade manufacturer and installer, was held responsible for determining the root cause of the incident. A GE Vernova spokesperson states that the initial investigation brings light to the issue of “insufficient bonding,” which the “quality assurance program should have identified,” but thus far, “there is no indication of an engineering design flaw in the blade.”

In a 10-Q filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, GE Vernova stated that the company does not have any indication of when the BSEE will lift the suspension order. Furthermore, it is unclear to them what impact the event or any potential claims would have on their financial position and cash flows. The BSEE’s official statement regarding the incident mandates that “The Suspension Order suspends power production on the lease area and suspends installation of new wind turbine generator construction” and that “Those operations will remain shut down until the suspension is lifted.” Until the Vineyard Wind can determine whether the blade failure affects any other turbines, all production will cease.

[1] https://www.bsee.gov/newsroom/latest-news/statements-and-releases/press-releases/bsee-statement-on-vineyard-wind

[USA] Launch of renewable hydrogen hub in California

On July 17, 2024, the US Department of Energy (DOE) awarded up to $1.2 billion to advance clean hydrogen projects in California. [1] The Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES) and the DOE announced the signing of a $12.6 billion agreement, with $1.2 billion from the DOE and $11.4 billion in public and private matching funds. The investment will directly reduce California’s reliance on fossil fuels and marks a significant step toward achieving a carbon-neutral economy by 2045. The California Hydrogen Hub is a network of clean hydrogen production sites that incorporate multiple facilities, to decarbonize public transport, heavy-duty trucking, and port operations by 2 million metric tons per year. The expansion of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in heavy-duty transportation aims to not only drive improvements in air quality but also to facilitate greater connectivity of a West Coast freight network that connects to the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub.

The ARCHES projects will cover the ports of Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Oakland, heavy-duty trucks and transit buses, clean power in power plants, and a marine research vessel known as the Scripps Marine Vessel. Over 10 sites will be used to fuel the aforementioned projects and kickstart the hydrogen ecosystem.

[1] https://www.energy.gov/oced/articles/award-wednesdays-july-17-2024

[USA] UW-Madison fusion energy research finds significant discovery of first plasma

On July 22, 2024, a fusion device designed by University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists generated plasma for the first time, a significant step towards creating a clean, reliable, and robust energy source. [1] Their achievement came four years in the making, after rigorous testing of a fusion energy device known as WHAM (Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror) in UW’s Physical Sciences Lab. The researchers used a new kind of magnet, the rare earth barium copper oxide superconducting magnets, which enabled them to create the first plasma on July 15, the first step in a new age of fusion research. To achieve this, they made a powerful vacuum and added hydrogen, which they then superheated as it was held in place by the magnets. The result was a 50-millisecond burst of plasma. If the prototype passes the testing phase next year, the scientists will start building a device that can generate fusion energy to power homes and industries with no GHG emissions and minimal radiation within the decade.

[1] https://news.wisc.edu/first-plasma-marks-major-milestone-in-uw-madison-fusion-energy-research/

[USA] US Senators introduce bill to speed approvals of energy projects

On July 22, 2024, Senators Joe Manchin (I-WV) and John Barrasso (R-WY) on the Senate Energy Committee introduced long overdue legislation to speed up the process of permitting power transmission, mining, and liquefied natural gas exports. [1] They suggest that this bill would not only strengthen the power grid but also keep power prices low. Building transmission capacity would help cities access electricity that originates from renewable power projects that have received financial support from Biden’s 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. Almost 2,000 MW of clean energy is ready for grid connection. The bill would speed up the process to reach the Biden administration’s goal of decarbonizing the US power sector by 2035. It also creates more opportunities for companies to bid on oil and gas leasing after 2025. Furthermore, the legislation allows a 90-day period for a secretary of energy to approve or reject liquefied natural gas export applications and ends Biden’s pause on their approvals. It would help unlock mining for minerals such as copper, that are used in transmission, renewable energy, and energy storage. Despite these factors, the bill’s future is not guaranteed due to election-year uncertainty and potential opposition to measures that support fossil fuel.

Manchin referred to the bill as a “commonsense, bipartisan piece of legislation that will speed up permitting” and provide certainty for energy projects “without bypassing important protections for our environment and impacted communities.” Barrasso stated, "For far too long, Washington’s disastrous permitting system has shackled American energy production and punished families in Wyoming and across our country" and “Congress must step in and fix this process."

[1] https://www.energy.senate.gov/2024/7/manchin-barrasso-release-bipartisan-energy-permitting-reform-legislation

[USA] Biden endorsed Kamala Harris as the next president of the U.S.

On July 21, 2024, Biden nominated Vice President Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States. [1] According to news sources, Harris is expected to continue Biden’s climate achievements if she wins the election. Harris’ governing style as vice president was that of a pragmatic moderate. However, her climate policy leans more leftist than centrist. For example, if elected, she intends to ban fossil fuel leases on public lands and initiate a climate pollution fee for greenhouse gas emitters. She also asserted that a Harris administration would strengthen the prosecution of fossil fuel companies, as evidenced by her history as California attorney general. In her role, she investigated Exxon Mobil for misleading the public about the threat climate change posed to its business based on false financial disclosures.

As vice president, she incorporated climate change into foreign relations by holding a round table in Bangkok to connect environmental activists with clean energy experts. In addition, she has stated that although China needs to be held accountable for intellectual property theft and other issues, it should be an ally in climate action. In terms of legislation, Harris also co-sponsored the Green New Deal, which aimed to transition to 100% clean energy within a decade. Furthermore, she also favored a ban on hydraulic fracking, a technique that environmentalists say pollutes the air as well as groundwater.

[1] https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/kamala-harris-stands-green-new-deal-climate-initiatives/story?id=112152079

[USA] Biden-Harris administration invests additional $10 Million to build domestic supply chain for critical minerals and materials

On July 16, 2024, The Biden-Harris administration announced investments in two projects at the California Institute of Technology and the University of Utah, that will help mitigate the costs and impacts of producing rare earth elements and critical minerals and materials, from coal and coal by-products. [1] The Biden administration’s Investing in America agenda intends to use these projects as a means to develop more affordable and sustainable production processes while creating good-paying jobs in the energy industry. The initiative will help meet growing demand for critical minerals and materials in the US and also reduce domestic reliance on foreign supply chains. Currently the US imports 80% of rare earth elements despite having 250 billion tons of coal reserves originating from coal by-products and coal waste, and the DOE believes that they can be harnessed to establish a sustainable supply chain that supports the economy, clean energy, and national security.

Managed by the DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory, the separation technology will refine rare earth elements in order to extract minerals from unconventional sources, such as coal. As part of the President’s Justice40 Initiative, these projects will also ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments in climate, clean energy, and other areas flow to disadvantaged communities who are disproportionately impacted by pollution and underinvestment. This effort is part of a broader strategy by the DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, which has committed $151 million to minimizing the environmental impacts of fossil fuels while working to achieve net-zero emissions across the US.

[1] https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-invests-additional-10-million-build-domestic-supply-chain

[USA] DTE Energy to build region’s largest battery energy storage center at site of retired Trenton Channel coal plant

DTE Energy, Michigan’s largest renewable energy producer, announced on June 10, 2024, plans to transform part of its retired Trenton Channel coal power plant into a 220-megawatt battery energy storage center. [1] Scheduled for completion in 2026, this will be the largest standalone battery storage project in the Great Lakes region, supporting DTE’s CleanVision Integrated Resource Plan and Michigan’s energy storage goals. The facility will store and distribute excess electricity, enhancing grid reliability and supporting renewable energy use.

The project, partially funded by $140 million in federal tax incentives from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, aligns with DTE’s net zero carbon reduction goals. CEO Jerry Norcia emphasized the company’s commitment to clean energy, noting that one-third of DTE’s electricity already comes from carbon-free sources. The new center will store enough power for nearly 40,000 homes, contributing to Michigan’s MI Healthy Climate Plan.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer praised the project for its potential to strengthen the grid, reduce energy costs, create jobs, and protect the environment. Trenton Mayor Steven Rzeppa highlighted the project’s benefits for the local community, including increased tax revenue for public projects. This initiative is a significant step towards doubling DTE’s energy storage capacity by 2042.

[1] https://ir.dteenergy.com/news/press-release-details/2024/DTE-Energy-to-build-regions-largest-battery-energy-storage-center----at-site-of-retired-Trenton-Channel-coal-plant/default.aspx

[USA] U.S. summer natural gas consumption forecast for electric power matches 2023 record

On May 30, 2024, the U.S. Energy Information Administration's May 2024 Short-Term Energy Outlook forecasts that natural gas consumption for electricity generation will average 44.7 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) during the peak summer months of June through August, matching the record set in summer 2023. [1] Despite a 3% increase in overall electricity generation, natural gas consumption is not expected to grow due to increased renewable energy production.

The shift towards more renewables and natural gas, and less coal, continues. Since 2014, natural gas-fired generation has become more competitive with coal, and its capacity has increased by 19%, or 79 gigawatts, with a 60% growth in generation. The efficiency and relatively low prices of combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plants have boosted natural gas use.

Simple-cycle gas turbine (SCGT) plants, used more frequently during high-demand summer months, have also seen increased utilization, with capacity factors rising from 8% in 2014 to over 20% in recent summers. The share of summer electricity generation from natural gas grew from 29% in 2014 to 46% in 2023 but is expected to decline slightly to 44% in 2024, as renewable sources, particularly solar, continue to grow.

[1] https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=62163

[USA] EEI Joins Litigation for EPA’s New Clean Air Act Section 111 Rules

On May 24, 2024, EEI President and CEO Dan Brouillette announced EEI's decision to file a petition for review of the EPA’s final Clean Air Act Section 111 rules and a motion to intervene. [1] While supporting the EPA’s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, EEI challenges the reliance on carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology as a compliance basis, arguing that CCS is not yet adequately demonstrated for broad industry deployment. Brouillette emphasized that no existing coal or natural gas power plants meet the EPA’s CCS requirements and that the implementation timelines are unrealistic. He stressed that EEI’s member companies are committed to reducing carbon emissions and investing in clean energy technologies, but regulations should be practical and achievable to avoid jeopardizing customer affordability and reliability. EEI seeks to ensure that the clean energy transition continues responsibly without relying on unproven technologies and unrealistic deadlines.

[1] https://www.eei.org/News/news/All/eei-joins-litigation-for-epa-clean-air-act-111-rules

[USA] The United States was the world’s largest liquefied natural gas exporter in 2023

On April 1, 2024, EIA announced that in 2023, the United States solidified its position as the top liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter globally, with exports averaging 11.9 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), marking a 12% increase from 2022. [1] This surpasses LNG export levels from other major exporters such as Australia and Qatar. Russia and Malaysia trailed behind as the fourth and fifth-highest exporters, with LNG exports averaging 4.2 Bcf/d and 3.5 Bcf/d, respectively.

The surge in U.S. LNG exports in 2023 was driven by several factors, including the return to full production at Freeport LNG and robust demand from Europe amid high international natural gas prices. Monthly export records were set in November and December, reaching 12.9 Bcf/d and 13.6 Bcf/d, respectively. The utilization of U.S. LNG export capacity averaged 104% of nominal capacity and 86% of peak capacity across seven operating terminals.

Europe remained the primary destination for U.S. LNG exports in 2023, accounting for 66% of exports, followed by Asia at 26%, and Latin America and the Middle East at 8%. The Netherlands, France, and the UK were the top importers of U.S. LNG, collectively receiving 35% of all U.S. exports. LNG imports in Asia, particularly in Japan and South Korea, saw significant volumes, while Brazil's LNG imports declined due to a reliance on hydropower for electricity generation. Looking ahead, Europe's LNG import capacity is expected to expand further by more than one-third between 2021 and 2024.

[1] https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=61683

[USA] New solar projects approved for Dominion Energy Virginia customers

On April 1, 2024, Dominion Energy Virginia received approval from the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) for over a dozen new solar projects. [1] These projects, totaling 764 megawatts (MW), include four solar projects owned or acquired by Dominion Energy Virginia and 13 power-purchase agreements (PPAs) with independently owned solar projects. Together, they will generate enough electricity to power nearly 200,000 homes at peak output. This approval signifies a significant expansion of Dominion Energy's clean energy fleet, currently the second-largest in the nation. Upon completion, Dominion Energy will have over 4,600 MW of approved solar projects in Virginia, enough to power more than 1.1 million homes. The construction of these projects is expected to create over 1,600 jobs and generate $570 million in economic benefits across Virginia. The projects are scheduled to be completed by 2026 and require local and state permits before construction can begin. Despite the estimated cost adding approximately $1.54 to the average residential customer's monthly bill, Dominion Energy Virginia's rates remain 12% below the national average and 31% below the Mid-Atlantic average. Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy while working towards achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050.

[1] https://news.dominionenergy.com/2024-04-01-New-solar-projects-approved-for-Dominion-Energy-Virginia-customers

[USA] DOE Releases First Ever Federal Blueprint to Decarbonize America’s Buildings Sector

On April 2, 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration unveiled the "Decarbonizing the U.S. Economy by 2050: A National Blueprint for the Buildings Sector," aiming to reduce greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions from buildings by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050. [1] Led by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in collaboration with other federal agencies, this sector-wide strategy underscores the administration's commitment to combatting climate change and achieving clean energy goals.

Buildings account for over a third of domestic climate pollution and $370 billion in annual energy costs. The Blueprint projects a 90% reduction in total GHG emissions from buildings, potentially saving over $100 billion in annual energy costs and preventing $17 billion in annual health costs.

To address energy insecurity and disparities, the Blueprint emphasizes affordability and resilience, with specific objectives focusing on increasing building energy efficiency, accelerating emissions reductions, transforming building-grid interactions, and minimizing emissions from building materials. These targets require accelerated deployment of decarbonization and energy efficiency technologies, with coordinated federal actions including research and development, market expansion, funding, and support for emissions-reducing building codes.

DOE focuses on building innovations, aiming to advance scalable technologies and installation solutions while expanding workforce capabilities. The Affordable Home Energy Shot™ initiative seeks to reduce upfront home upgrade costs and energy bills, facilitating progress towards emission reduction targets.

[1] https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-releases-first-ever-federal-blueprint-decarbonize-americas-buildings-sector

[USA] President Biden Announces Three FERC Nominees

On February 29, 2024, President Biden nominated three individuals to serve as commissioners on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), signaling a key move towards shaping the nation's energy policies. [1] The nominees, if confirmed, would bring diverse expertise and backgrounds to FERC, contributing to the agency's oversight of energy markets and regulation. Willie L. Phillips, an attorney with a strong background in energy law, offers insights into regulatory processes and legal frameworks. Ashley L. Poling, known for her experience in energy policy and legislative affairs, brings a deep understanding of the intersection between policy and regulation. Lauren "Bubba" McDonald Jr., a seasoned public servant and advocate for energy infrastructure, provides perspectives on energy security and grid reliability. These nominations reflect the administration's commitment to addressing pressing energy and environmental challenges, including promoting clean energy integration and ensuring equitable access to reliable energy. The confirmation of these nominees would play a crucial role in shaping the nation's energy landscape and advancing the administration's clean energy agenda.

[USA] Biden-Harris Administration Announces $90 Million to Improve Building Efficiency, Increase Resilience, and Lower Costs for American Families and Businesses

The Biden-Harris administration announced on March 4, 2024, a $90 million initiative aimed at improving building efficiency, bolstering resilience, and creating jobs. [1] This investment aligns with their broader climate and economic goals. The initiative targets reducing carbon emissions by accelerating the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, supporting research and development, and promoting workforce development in the clean energy sector. Additionally, the funding aims to enhance building resilience to climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events, ensuring infrastructure readiness for future challenges. Collaborations with research institutions, universities, and private companies are key to driving innovation and creating job opportunities in green industries. This initiative reflects the administration's commitment to combating climate change, transitioning to sustainable energy sources, and promoting economic growth through environmental stewardship. By investing in building efficiency, the administration aims to address climate challenges while simultaneously stimulating job creation and advancing clean energy technology.

[USA] Biden Announces Willie L. Phillips, Jr. as Chair of FERC

On February 9, 2024, President Biden appointed Willie L. Phillips Jr. as Chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). [1] Phillips, with extensive experience in energy regulation and law, is poised to lead FERC in advancing clean energy policies. Having served as a FERC commissioner since 2021, Phillips brings a deep understanding of energy markets and regulatory frameworks to his new role. As chair, he will oversee critical aspects of the nation's energy infrastructure, including interstate electricity transmission and natural gas pipelines. Phillips' appointment reflects the administration's commitment to promoting renewable energy integration, grid modernization, and environmental protection. By leveraging regulatory mechanisms, the administration aims to accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources and address climate change threats. Overall, Willie L. Phillips Jr.'s appointment signals a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable and resilient energy future for the United States under the Biden administration.

 

[USA] Avangrid and Amazon Expand U.S. Partnership with 98.4 MW Wind Project in Oregon

On February 9, 2024, Avangrid and Amazon announced an expansion of their partnership with a new 98.4 MW wind project in Oregon. [1] This project marks another step in Amazon's commitment to renewable energy and sustainability goals. Avangrid, a leading renewable energy company, will develop and operate the wind project, which will contribute to Oregon's clean energy transition. The agreement between Avangrid and Amazon involves a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA), ensuring that Amazon will procure renewable energy generated by the wind project to power its operations. This collaboration aligns with Amazon's broader efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and meet its renewable energy targets. The project underscores the importance of corporate partnerships in driving renewable energy development and advancing climate action. By investing in renewable energy projects like this wind farm, Avangrid and Amazon demonstrate their commitment to building a more sustainable future while fostering economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector.

[USA] DOE and FEMA Study Finds Puerto Rico Can Achieve 100% Renewable Energy Future By 2050

On February 7, 2024, the US Department of Energy (DOE) and FEMA released a joint study suggesting that Puerto Rico has the potential to transition to 100% renewable energy. [1] The study highlights the feasibility of this transition, emphasizing the island's abundant renewable resources and the benefits of reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. By harnessing solar, wind, and other renewable sources, Puerto Rico could enhance energy resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy costs for residents. The report underscores the importance of strategic planning, infrastructure investment, and policy support in realizing this ambitious goal. It also highlights the role of federal agencies in providing technical assistance and funding opportunities to support Puerto Rico's renewable energy transition. Overall, the study provides a roadmap for Puerto Rico to achieve energy independence and sustainability while enhancing its resilience to future disasters and climate change impacts.

 

[USA] DOE announces $34 million in funding for technologies to underground power lines

On January 16, 2024, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced $34 million for 12 projects across 11 states to strengthen and modernize America’s aging power grid through the development of cost-effective, high-speed, and safe undergrounding technologies.[1] Selected projects in the program, called the Grid Overhaul with Proactive, High-speed Undergrounding for Reliability, Resilience, and Security (GOPHURRS), will advance innovative solutions to help upgrade and expand the nation’s grid infrastructure—lowering costs, reducing inefficiencies, mitigating disruptions from extreme weather events, and accelerating the adoption of renewable clean energy resources.

The electric power distribution system in the U.S. has over 5.5 million line-miles with over 180 million power poles and is susceptible to damage by weather and its effects, accounting for a majority of power outages in the country each year. Extreme weather events fueled by climate change are increasing the frequency and intensity of power outages across the U.S. Undergrounding power lines can improve the system reliability for both transmission and distribution grids. Managed by DOE’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), projects under the program will play a critical role in developing technologies to reduce costs, increase speed, and improve the safety of undergrounding operations.“Modernizing our nation’s power grid is essential to building a clean energy future that lowers energy costs for working Americans and strengthens our national security,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “With today’s announcement, DOE is supporting teams across the country as they develop innovative approaches to burying power infrastructure underground—increasing our resilience and bringing our aging grid into the 21st Century.”


[1] https://arpa-e.energy.gov/news-and-media/press-releases/us-department-energy-announces-34-million-improve-reliability