Renewable Energy Magazine

Jan 20, 2025

CEA Applauds President Trump’s Expansive Day One Energy Announcements

Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, applauded President Donald Trump for his announcement of plans to declare a national energy emergency and a host of other actions to capitalize on his promise to unleash American energy during his second term as President.

The emergency declaration begins the process of undoing a host of impractical, harmful, uneconomic and unnecessary policies that have plagued American consumers for the past four years. These actions demonstrate that the Administration is unequivocally recognizing that the U.S. has the most abundant energy resources in the world and a proven track record of responsibly and sustainably developing them for the benefit of American consumers and our allies abroad. After four years of policies that have resulted in less reliable energy, and energy costs that are now 30% higher than 2021, these actions are welcome news for American families and businesses.

“Renewing our commitment to consistently, safely and responsibly harvest our rich energy resources while continuing to build much-needed infrastructure to support their development was central to President Trump’s campaign message,” CEA President David Holtsaid. “CEA applauds his Day One actions which are going to be catalysts for lower energy costs that will spur opportunity across our economy while delivering clean, reliable energy to meet our growing demand. These actions are welcome news for America, and a clear signal that common sense will drive our national energy policies.”

“The past four years of misguided, unnecessary and restrictive energy policies resulted in some of the highest energy costs in U.S. history and record inflation. This forced more Americans than ever to choose between feeding their families and paying their electricity, heating, and gasoline bills. At long last, CEA is pleased that practical energy policy is once again at the forefront of White House decision-making,” Holt said. “Our largest need now is infrastructure – pipelines, transmission, and critical facilities – to take us back from the brink of frequent blackout risk that has worsened, as electricity demand has surged to the highest level in a generation with AI and data center demand.”

“This is an excellent start and we urge the White House and Congress to build on this to establish permanent, consistent policies that are transparent, predictable and comprehensive in encouraging affordable, reliable and cleaner energy. This will help ease the inflationary pressures many families are currently facing.”

“On behalf of our members – American families and small businesses - we look forward to working with President Trump and his administration to get American energy back on track, lowering existing cost burdens, creating jobs, and helping spark economic growth for decades to come. CEA will support the new Administration in the fight to provide affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy for all Americans.”

Consumer Energy Alliance | https://consumerenergyalliance.org/

Jan 20, 2025

Capstone Infrastructure Corporation Secures Three Major Wind Projects in British Columbia Alongside Indigenous Partners

Capstone Infrastructure Corporation (TSX: CSE.PR.A) (the "Corporation" or "Capstone") is proud to announce the execution of three 30-year Electricity Purchase Agreements with BC Hydro alongside Indigenous partners. The three wind projects – Brewster, Highland Valley, and Mount Mabel – were selected by BC Hydro in their recent Call for Power and will have a total combined capacity of 537 MW. Together, the projects will generate approximately 1.4 million MWh of electricity annually, enough to power more than 157,000 average British Colombian homes per year.

All projects are Indigenous led partnerships with a 51% equity ownership interest by Wei Wai Kum First Nation (Brewster Wind), Ashcroft Indian Band (Highland Valley Wind), and Lower Nicola Indian Band (Mount Mabel Wind) respectively.

"We’re thrilled to have three projects selected by BC Hydro’s recent renewables procurement. Capstone prides itself on responsible and sustainable development, construction, and operation our projects, while delivering quality jobs and significant economic benefits for local communities and our Indigenous partners,” says David Eva, CEO of Capstone, “and we believe our project partners share this same vision. We’re all looking forward to playing a major role in British Columbia’s clean energy future.”

The selected projects:

Brewster Wind Project: This project is a collaboration between Wei Wai Kum First Nation, located approximately 50 km northwest of Campbell River on Vancouver Island. The wind energy facility will have an nameplate capacity of 197 MW.

“The Brewster Wind Project is a milestone for the Wei Wai Kum Nation, embodying our vision for clean energy and sustainable development. It demonstrates the power of partnerships between Indigenous communities and industry to drive positive change. This project is more than just energy production—it is an opportunity to create jobs, invest in our community, and build economic resilience for generations to come. It will support economic growth and prosperity across the greater Vancouver Island region, addressing the critical need for new power to unlock future projects and investments.”

Chief Christopher Roberts, Wei Wai Kum First Nation

Highland Valley Wind Project: The Project is located approximately 18 km west of the District Municipality of Logan Lake in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District in the Southern Interior. The 197 MW wind energy project is a collaboration between Ashcroft Indian Band and Capstone.

“We welcome the opportunity provided by BC Hydro’s selection of the Highland Valley Wind Project and look forward to working together with our partner, Capstone. This project is a significant advancement in economic reconciliation and marks a new era in Indigenous ownership and control of our resources. We believe that working together is the best course for all of us.”

Chief Greg Blain, Ashcroft Indian Band

Mount Mabel Wind Project: Capstone, in partnership with the Lower Nicola Indian Band, this 143 MW wind energy project is located in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District in the Southern Interior, approximately 25 km northeast of Merritt.

“We are excited about the Mount Mabel Wind Project moving forward - it marks another important step for LNIB’s continued leadership and investment in the energy sector and increased economic self-sufficiency. We look forward to building a strong partnership and world-class renewable energy facility with Capstone, as well as the economic benefits this project will provide for our Nation and the broader community.”

Chief Stuart Jackson, Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB)

Capstone Infrastructure Corporation | www.capstoneinfrastructure.com

Jan 20, 2025

NextWind Aims for Leadership in Germany's Wind Energy Industry

A leading provider of optimized renewable energy sites in Germany, NeXtWind, is kicking off the year with major developments. The company has strengthened its team with the addition of former EWE Chief Technology Officer Dr. Urban Keussen, who will take on the role of COO. Additionally, NeXtWind has moved into a larger, state-of-the-art office in Berlin's Upper West. Earlier in January, the company acquired twelve wind farms from Nadara, located in northern, eastern, and western Germany, expanding its repowering potential to 1.4 GW — equivalent to the energy production of approximately 1.5 nuclear reactor units. This capacity enables NeXtWind to supply green electricity to around one million households annually. By 2028, NeXtWind aims to achieve a total repowering capacity of 3 GW, positioning itself as a leader in Germany’s wind energy sector.

"NeXtWind stands for innovation and speed in the wind energy industry. We are advancing Germany's energy transition with renewable energy," said Lars Meyer, Co-CEO and co-founder of the company.

Team Growth and Strengthened Management

Last year, the team grew from 30 to 80 colleagues. To create space for this, we have now moved into a new office in the Upper West in Berlin. “With this office, we are sending out a clear signal of our growth strategy and our desire to aim high in the industry in the truest sense of the word. We offer modern workplaces for creativity and bring young talent together with experienced experts,” says Lars Meyer. “Our team is growing strongly in all areas - it is the engine of our innovative strength.”

Dr. Urban Keussen, previously Chief Technology Officer at EWE for more than six years and a longstanding executive in the energy sector, including more than ten years at E.ON, will play a key role in NextWind's ambitious growth strategy as the new COO. “With his many years of experience, he will provide us with significant support in optimizing processes and further expanding the portfolio,” says Ewald Woste, Executive Chairman and co-founder.

Industry Leadership in Wind Energy

Founded in 2020, the Berlin-based startup currently operates 37 wind farms. By 2025, NeXtWind will have more than 260 aging turbines in operation, ready for repowering over the next three years. The company focuses on efficient permitting processes, with approximately 80 turbines already in permitting stages and an additional 50 to 60 planned for submission this year. Simultaneously, NeXtWind is planning investments worth several hundred million euros in new installations.

By strategically securing the best wind sites in northern Germany and working closely with over 1,600 landowners, NeXtWind is positioning itself as a leader in the German renewable energy industry. The company aims to reach a total capacity of 3 GW by 2028, claiming a top position in the wind energy market. At the beginning of 2024, its capacity was just 350 MW.

NeXtWind collaborates closely with local communities and partners to make wind energy both environmentally sustainable and economically viable. With over 150 legal entities and a focus on optimizing existing sites, the company plays a crucial role in advancing Germany’s energy transition.

The company is committed to optimizing existing wind energy sites by replacing outdated turbines with more efficient ones and expanding the number of turbines in collaboration with local communities. By integrating complementary and flexible technologies, NeXtWind can further increase and better manage energy production.

"NeXtWind ensures that wind energy is not only environmentally sustainable but also economically profitable for Germany," said Prof. Dr. Werner Süss, Co-CEO and co-founder.

NeXtWind | http://www.nextwind.com

Jan 20, 2025

NEMA Releases Policy Roadmap to Power the Electric Future

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) released NEMA’s Policy Roadmap to Power the Electric Future, which lays out actionable steps to strengthen the U.S. electroindustry and power America’s critical electrical infrastructure. The roadmap details steps the Trump Administration and Congress can take to bolster our nation’s energy security, build a resilient grid, and boost domestic manufacturing and innovation.

“The U.S. electroindustry is the backbone of our nation’s energy future,” said Debra Phillips, President and CEO, NEMA. “Our industry stands ready to work in partnership with the Trump Administration and in Congress to champion our priorities and continue to accelerate progress towards powering America’s energy future.”

Collectively, NEMA members contribute 1% of U.S. GDP, employ nearly 460,000 Americans in every state, and generate over $250 billion annually for the U.S. economy. NEMA’s roadmap outlines major policy recommendations to drive the electroindustry forward, including:

Maintaining tax certainty for energy security
Unleashing American innovation to build a resilient grid
Powering energy dominance through American manufacturing
Developing skilled workers to power our grid

To learn more about NEMA’s policy roadmap to secure a resilient all-electric future, click here.

NEMA | www.nema.org

Jan 20, 2025

AFRY Secures Offshore Wind Farm Design Contract in Estonia

AFRY has been selected by Enefit Green to deliver front-end engineering design (FEED) services for the 1GW Liivi Bay offshore wind farm in the Gulf of Riga, Estonia.

Offshore wind energy is a key component of Estonia’s strategy to expand its renewable energy portfolio and strengthen energy independence. The Liivi Bay Offshore wind farm is developed by Enefit Green, a leading renewable energy producer in the Baltics.

The FEED phase is crucial for ensuring the wind farm’s efficient and sustainable operation. AFRY, in collaboration with its partners, the offshore energy engineering firms Enersea, JBO and INGEO2, will deliver an integrated and comprehensive design.

The scope of the assignment includes detailed site assessment studies, site layout optimisation, foundation selection and design, transport and installation engineering and planning, and the full electrical design including the offshore substation.

AFRY has been involved in the Liivi Bay project since the pre-development phase which began in 2022. This prior collaboration laid the foundation for the current assignment and reflects Enefit Green’s confidence in AFRY’s technical expertise in offshore wind energy.

Johann-Gustav Lend, Head of Offshore Wind Energy at Enefit Green, noted:

"We are pleased to strengthen our collaboration with AFRY as we progress with the Liivi Bay offshore wind farm. The development of onshore and offshore wind power is essential for unlocking wind energy's full potential to tackle existing high dependency on electricity imports and to make electricity more affordable in the region, while also supporting the achievement of renewable energy goals. Once completed, the Liivi Bay offshore wind farm could cover half of Estonia's current electricity consumption and significantly boost economic development. The environmental impact assessment for the Liivi offshore wind farm has been completed and is now awaiting final approval. The FEED phase marks the next key step in making this project a reality."

Jonathan Sistonen, Head of Business Unit Wind & Solar at AFRY added:

“This project marks a continuation of AFRY’s longstanding collaboration with Enefit Green. We value the trust placed in us during the pre-development phase and are honoured to contribute to Estonia’s renewable energy ambitions through our involvement in the Bid-FEED.”

The total order value for all suppliers, awarded through a competitive public tender process, is SEK 38 million. AFRY will execute the project together with the three subcontractor partners over three years. AFRY’s portion of the order value is not specified.

AFRY | https://afry.com/en

Jan 17, 2025

New Berkeley Lab Brief on Value of Solar Studies with a Focus on Value Categories and Methodologies

Berkeley Lab has just released a brief titled A Review of Value of Solar Studies In Theory and In Practice. This brief is a result of technical assistance conducted under the U.S. Department of Energy-funded Resources and Assistance for State Energy Offices and Regulators program. In the brief, Berkeley Lab researchers summarize a collection of state- and utility-commissioned value of solar (VoS) studies and related literature, with a focus on who commissioned the study, which value and cost categories were discussed and/or quantified, and the methods used.

Though most states in the United States required net metering as of 2024 (i.e., compensating solar output at the full electricity rate), many have taken recent action to address distributed generation compensation and valuation. One common action is for states to commission VoS studies that quantify the value and costs associated with distributed solar output to inform solar tariff and incentive design.

The objective of this work is to compile information on prior VoS studies to inform state regulators and other stakeholders that may pursue related studies or integrate findings into ratemaking design. To do so, we summarized two meta-analyses that reviewed state- and utility-funded VoS studies conducted between 2005 and 2018 as well as four additional studies published from 2018 through 2023. While the brief goes into further detail on methodology and other specifics, Table 1 illustrates the value categories that were included in each of the four more recent studies and whether they were quantified, qualitatively included, or omitted.

Table 1: Regions in which value of solar studies were conducted between 2018 and 2023 that are analyzed in this brief and whether each value and cost category were either quantified, discussed, or omitted

table

This brief is intended to contextualize and summarize the value and cost categories that have been included in past VoS studies and research as well as the methodology used to quantify these values. This can provide context to states that may want to do the same in order to understand or quantify the net benefits of solar or integrate findings into new or updated solar incentives or tariffs.

We thank the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy for their support of this work.

Berkeley Lab | https://www.lbl.gov/

Jan 17, 2025

Vikram Solar Announces 1 GW Module Supply Order Win

Vikram Solar, a leading Indian solar photo-voltaic (“PV”) module manufacturing company, has announced that it has secured a significant order to supply 1GW of solar modules. This milestone project underscores the company’s commitment to driving the renewable energy transition across India. Under this contract, Vikram Solar will supply its advanced Hypersol N-Type TOPCON Glass-to-Glass Modules (580Wp and above) to fulfill the order. The modules are specifically designed to deliver enhanced efficiency, making them ideal for large-scale solar installations.

The modules will be deployed in the states of Karnataka, Gujarat and Rajasthan in India as part of JSW Neo Energy Limited’s renewable energy initiative. Manufacturing of the modules will be undertaken at Vikram Solar’s state-of-the-art facilities in Falta (West Bengal) and Oragadam, (Chennai), ensuring high-quality production standards.

Mr. Gyanesh Chaudhary, Chairman & Managing Director, Vikram Solar shared, “We are ecstatic to be a part of this pivotal project. With this order win, we aim to demonstrate our technical expertise and leadership in module manufacturing, specifically with our advanced Hypersol N-Type TOPCON Glass-to-Glass Modules (580Wp and above). Engineered for enhanced efficiency, these modules are ideal for large-scale solar installations. The collaboration evidences our commitment to deliver innovative solutions and foster long-term partnerships in our vision to power the world with clean energy.”

This order highlights Vikram Solar’s strong market presence and the growing demand for its high-performance solar modules. With this project, the company continues to solidify its position as a trusted partner in India’s solar energy sector.

Vikram Solar | www.vikramsolar.com

On-site Energy Storage to Accelerate Speed to Power in Constrained Markets

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CEA Applauds President Trump’s Expansive Day One Energy Announcements

Capstone Infrastructure Corporation Secures Three Major Wind Projects in British Columbia Alongside Indigenous Partners

NextWind Aims for Leadership in Germany's Wind Energy Industry

NEMA Releases Policy Roadmap to Power the Electric Future

AFRY Secures Offshore Wind Farm Design Contract in Estonia

New Berkeley Lab Brief on Value of Solar Studies with a Focus on Value Categories and Methodologies

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