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The possibility of working remotely has opened opportunities for millions of people. As an avid outdoorsman, I have been building a retreat in western Montana. In this case, the word “remote” is an understatement; there is no electricity, cell phone service, or internet access — it’s entirely off the grid. But I need those things to live and work here, so I had to build my own. Here’s how I did it. People have historically moved ....
Alternative Energies
Keith Lambert
Energy Storage
DEPCOM Power
Wind
Jerry Burhans
Construction is well underway at the Gleichen Solar Project site which will bring online over 13 megawatts of clean, renewable energy to surrounding communities in the southeastern Alberta hamlet of Gleichen.
The Gleichen Solar Project is a collaboration between Ermineskin Cree Nation and TIU Canada. It is supported by the Government of Canada through the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREP). The project represents over $30 million combined investment in renewable energy for the region.
Leadership from Ermineskin Cree Nation and TIU Canada were onsite last week to review construction progress and engage directly with the site employees. TIU Canada's Country Manager Dan Visser explained, "having just broken ground in June, the progress made in building this facility is truly impressive – we anticipate coming online in March 2025."
Chief Jole Mykat of the Ermineskin Cree Nation, which own a fifty-one percent stake in the project, said, "this partnership and the Gleichen Solar Project represents a significant step forward for our community in the renewable energy space, a step toward greater sustainability for generations to come. I am looking forward to seeing this work unfold for the benefit of our people."
Chief Joel Mykat
Ermineskin Cree Nation
Reflecting on the contribution of the Federal government, Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said, "by making historic investments in clean electricity, this government is positioning Canadians to take advantage of the economic opportunities presented by the clean economy, now and into the future. The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways program is already providing Canadian communities across the country with affordable and clean power while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. I am pleased to celebrate the ongoing successes of this program and to confirm a federal commitment of $21.3 million for the Gleichen Solar Project. By working with Indigenous partners, we can accomplish our common goal of an energy-efficient and money-saving clean grid, while bringing benefits to communities and advancing meaningful economic reconciliation."
The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
Reflecting on the benefits ahead, Mr. Visser stated, "I'm proud of TIU Canada's partnership with the Ermineskin Cree Nation and our contribution to meeting Canada's net-zero emissions goals, with this project and more to come."
Construction, operational, and environmental details:
TIU-Canada | https://tiucanada.ca/
The American Clean Power Association (ACP) released the following statement from Moira Cyphers, ACP Director for Atlantic Offshore & Eastern State Affairs after comprehensive legislation was introduced in Massachusetts enhancing clean energy deployment. Key features include a major overhaul of energy infrastructure permitting, increased support for renewable sources like wind, solar, and expanded battery storage:
“This legislation is a win-win for Massachusetts. By streamlining the siting and permitting processes, this legislation would significantly benefit offshore wind power and energy storage, enabling faster deployment of crucial infrastructure. Allowing longer power contracts of up to 30 years, the legislation aims to create more stable investments and potentially lower electricity costs for consumers. Additionally, the focus on enhancing battery storage facilities will support the integration of renewable energy, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future. Importantly, this bill will create new jobs and lead to cleaner air. ACP urges legislators to ensure its swift passage and we look forward to ongoing collaboration to see that happen.”
Generac Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: GNRC), a leading global designer, manufacturer and provider of energy technology solutions and other power products, announced the company has been selected to enter into negotiations by the Department of Energy (DOE) to receive an award for a grant of $50 million as part of the DOE's Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP). Established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program is a $10.5 billion investment to enhance grid flexibility, improve the resilience of the power system against extreme weather, and ensure American communities have access to affordable, reliable, energy when and where they need it.
Generac, in collaboration with the California Water Association (CWA), aims to integrate clean energy solutions with water utilities statewide. The total investment is estimated to be approximately $100 million across about 100 California water utility sites, particularly in Disadvantaged Communities (DACs).
"We've been providing reliable backup power solutions to critical infrastructure, such as water and wastewater utilities, in California and across the US for more than 65 years," said Aaron Jagdfeld, president and CEO at Generac. He added, "We are honored to be selected by the DOE to expand that scope by delivering these innovative solutions of clean, resilient, and efficient power for California and its grid."
Under the project, microgrids, which will utilize battery energy storage and be managed by distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS), will form virtual power plants (VPPs) capable of delivering reliable load reduction during times of grid stress. Additionally, the project, with at least 55% of sites in DACs, will lead to improved air and water quality, reliability, and operational savings.
"I am thrilled Generac Power Systems project has been selected for funding and thank the U.S. Department of Energy for their ongoing support of innovations that advance California's clean energy goals," said California Energy Commission Chair David Hochschild. "This effort will install battery systems at water utility facilities across the state, supporting resiliency during local outages and enhancing grid reliability by offering backup power during extreme events."
California's electric grid is increasingly challenged by aging infrastructure, rising demands from electrification, and the effects of extreme weather. As an example, during a 10-day heat wave in September 2022, the grid was pushed to its limits, and water utilities played a vital role by providing backup power through fossil-fueled generators. This situation underscored the urgent need for more sustainable and resilient energy solutions.
"Made possible through our close partnership with Generac Power Systems, the California Water Association and our members are honored to be beneficiaries of this $50 million grant from the DOE GRIP program. This funding will help our member water utilities leverage clean microgrid and advanced storage solutions to improve local electric power resilience in the communities we serve," said Jennifer Capitolo, CWA Executive Director.
The project will create an estimated 200 union construction jobs and 33 direct jobs, contract approximately $27 million with businesses majority owned or controlled by underrepresented persons or groups of underrepresented persons, and direct 59% of project benefits to DACs. Some or all of this project will be executed in collaboration with the Northern California Laborers, Northern California Operating Engineers, Operators Local Union, Teamsters Local Union, Laborers Local Union, Carpenters Local Union, Masons Local Union, or the IBEW Local Union.
For more information, visit the following link https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/Generac_Power_Systems_GRIP2_Fact_Sheet.pdf for a background document on the project.
Generac Power Systems | https://www.generac.com/
Mercom Capital Group, an integrated communications and research firm focused exclusively on clean energy markets, released its report on funding and merger and acquisition (M&A) activity for the Energy Storage and Smart Grid sectors for the third quarter (Q3) and the first nine months (9M) of 2024.
Energy Storage
Corporate funding for Energy Storage companies in 9M 2024 reached $17.6 billion in 83 deals, a 15% increase year-over-year (YoY) compared to $15.2 billion in 94 deals in 9M 2023.
CHART: Energy Storage Corporate Funding 9M 2020 – 9M 2024
Venture capital (VC) funding for Energy Storage companies in 9M 2024 came to $2.7 billion in 61 deals, a 69% decrease YoY compared to $8.6 billion in 68 deals in 9M 2023.
Lithium-based Battery companies received the most VC funding ($778 million) in 9M 2024. Other top funded categories included Battery Recycling, Metal-Hydrogen Batteries, Sodium-based Battery companies, and Materials and Components providers.
The Top 5 Energy Storage VC funding deals in 9M 2024 were: Sila Nanotechnologies, which raised $375 million; EnerVenue Holdings, which raised $308 million; Natron Energy, which raised $189 million; Ascend Elements, which brought in $162 million; and Antora Energy, which raised $150 million.
Announced debt and public market financing for Energy Storage companies in 9M 2024 came to $15 billion in 22 deals, a 125% increase YoY compared to $6.6 billion in 26 deals in 9M 2023.
A total of 18 Energy Storage M&A transactions were announced in 9M 2024, up from 11 M&A transactions in 9M 2023.
The number of project M&A transactions was the same, with 22 transactions in both 9M 2023 and 9M 2024.
Smart Grid
Corporate funding for Smart Grid companies in 9M 2024 totaled $2 billion in 53 deals, 33% lower YoY compared to $3 billion raised in 48 deals in 9M 2023.
CHART: Smart Grid Corporate Funding 9M 2020 – 9M 2024
VC funding across all Smart Grid companies in 9M 2024 totaled $1.4 billion in 43 deals, 13% higher YoY than the $1.2 billion raised in 37 deals in 9M 2023.
The Top 5 Smart Grid VC funding deals in 9M 2024 were: Electra, which raised $330 million; Powerdot, which raised $108 million; FLO, which raised $100 million; Monta, which raised $87 million; and Battery Smart, which raised $65 million.
Announced debt and public market financing for Smart Grid technology companies totaled $568 million in 10 deals in 9M 2024 compared to $1.7 billion in 11 deals in 9M 2023.
In 9M 2024, there were seven Smart Grid M&A transactions compared to eight transactions in 9M 2023.
To get a copy of the report, visit: https://mercomcapital.com/product/9m-q3-2024-funding-ma-report-storage-grid/
Mercom Capital Group | http://www.nercomcapital.com
The Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI) has awarded nine of Alliant Energy’s solar projects with its highest award level – Envision Platinum – for the sustainable development, construction and operation of the facilities. The nine Wisconsin solar projects total 664 megawatts (MW) and represent the successful execution of Alliant Energy’s Clean Energy Blueprint, a roadmap to diversify its energy resources. All nine projects were placed into service by the end of 2023 as the energy company delivers on its purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities in a safe, cost-effective and reliable manner.
“As we transition to a more diverse energy mix, the sustainable development, construction, and operation of these solar projects will benefit local communities,” said David de Leon, president of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company. “To have some of the first solar projects in the state recognized under this framework showcases us as a leading energy company as we work to fulfill our commitment to generating cleaner energy and building stronger communities.”
Engineering, Procurement and Construction contractor Burns & McDonnell led the construction of these projects beginning in the summer of 2021.
“We are incredibly proud to have achieved ISI’s prestigious Envision Platinum award for all nine of the Alliant Energy solar projects for which Envision verification was pursued. This recognition reflects the hard work and collaboration between Alliant Energy and our integrated EPC team,” said Chad Cotter, vice president for Burns & McDonnell. “From day one, being one unified team allowed us to demonstrate continual improvement of the planning-design-construction process, ensuring that we remained aligned in our commitment to safety, sustainability and resiliency. This award is a testament to what can be accomplished when everyone is working toward the goal of meeting the needs of the present as well as the needs of the future."
The Envision framework was designed by ISI to promote more sustainable, resilient, and equitable infrastructure projects. It is comprised of 64 sustainability and resiliency indicators (called credits) which are organized within five categories: Quality of life, leadership, resource allocation, natural world, and climate and resilience.
“ISI congratulates Alliant Energy on achieving the highest Envision Award level, Platinum, with each of these projects. By adopting Envision to guide its portfolio of clean energy projects, the company has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and to the communities of Wisconsin,” said Anthony Kane, President & CEO of ISI. “Alliant Energy is proving projects like these can produce sustainably sourced energy and also provide economic, environmental and social benefits.”
Projects need to receive at least 50% of the total applicable points across the credits to receive a Platinum verification award. Below are unique characteristics from each project that led to their recognitions:
Albany (50 MW, Green County): Alliant Energy undertook measures to understand community sensitivities associated with groundwater protection, spill and leak prevention response plans, and responsive surface water and groundwater monitoring and reporting systems.
Bear Creek (50 MW, Richland County): At least 97.4% of all construction and demolition material was either sent to recycling facilities or diverted for beneficial reuse.
Beaver Dam (50 MW, Dodge County): The project utilizes fiber optic cables, which are non-conducive and safer for technicians to handle, reducing the risk of electrical hazards to workers and the public. A glare study of the site predicted no risk to public health or safety for drivers or nearby residences.
Cassville (50 MW, Grant County): Key stakeholders at the municipal and county levels expressed approval of the project and its execution based on Alliant Energy’s proactive communication approach and its economic, environmental and public health benefits for the community.
North Rock (50 MW, Rock County): The project ensures the transmission of data used for remote monitoring, programming and scheduling of project operations through the addition of fiber optic cables in the region.
Paddock (65 MW, Rock County): Alliant Energy conducted early studies and incorporated public input to inform the development of policies related to construction work schedule limitations, designated traffic routes, and a proactive roadway maintenance program.
Springfield (100 MW, Dodge County): Alliant Energy conducted multiple studies to find areas of high ecological value relative to the project site and fully avoided those areas during project development.
Wautoma (99 MW, Waushara County): The team sought feedback from the Central Wisconsin Trout Unlimited chapter to ensure they could fully avoid any negative impacts to water quality from the project. The group conducted water monitoring in the area and found no changes in the quality.
Wood County (150 MW, Wood County): Alliant Energy partnered with local lumber contractors and mills to implement a sustainable tree harvesting program, and nonsalable wood, such as small trees, limbs, and stumps, were chipped into usable mulch and donated to local citizens.
Alliant Energy | alliantenergy.com
Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure | https://sustainableinfrastructure.org/
As the transportation industry powers towards zero-emissions solutions, Modine (NYSE: MOD), a diversified global leader in thermal management technology, announced it is the thermal management supplier for GILLIG, a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses in the United States, for their hybrid vehicles, powered by the Allison eGen Flex system. Through this collaboration, Modine provides its advanced EVantage Battery Thermal Management Systems (BTMS) and inverter cooling module for the GILLIG Hybrid bus. Purpose-built to optimize thermal performance and system efficiency, these Modine systems will help ensure longevity and consistent performance under various operating conditions.
Since 2023, GILLIG has delivered over 100 hybrid buses with Modine’s thermal management technology integrated, proving the integration’s reliability and performance success in various communities such as Indianapolis, Jefferson City, Marin, Haverhill, Springfield, Cincinnati, and Northern Kentucky. Most recently, GILLIG delivered 15 Allison eGen Flex Hybrid buses to Citibus in Lubbock, Texas, with another 15 Hybrids planned for delivery later this year.
"At GILLIG, our commitment to sustainable transportation solutions is supported by strong partnerships with forward-thinking companies like Modine, and we have reinforced the reliability of our Hybrid buses as a result," said Benjamin Grunat, VP of Product Planning & Strategy at GILLIG. "Our longstanding supplier relationship with Modine is built on a shared dedication to creating a more environmentally responsible and efficient future for public transportation."
GILLIG has been at the forefront of Hybrid bus technology for more than two decades, delivering reliable, quiet, and fuel-efficient solutions for the transportation industry. GILLIG provides adaptable and versatile bus models in a diverse range of propulsion types to cater to customers' specific requirements. Each GILLIG Hybrid bus comes equipped with an integrated system that includes a six-cylinder, Clean Diesel engine, an electrical drive unit, a controller module, a power processor, and a roof-mounted energy storage system, ideal for applications with multiple daily route services. The eGen Flex electric hybrid propulsion system, made by Allison Transmissions, provides advanced hybrid propulsion and electric accessory operations for GILLIG buses.
"GILLIG is a US market leader in low and zero-emissions solutions for public transportation, setting high standards for sustainability and efficiency. Modine remains steadfast in our longstanding support for GILLIG as the demand for the next generation of transit buses grows,” said Gina Maria Bonini, Vice President and General Manager of Advanced Thermal Systems at Modine. "We are proud of our longstanding partnership as a thermal management supplier for GILLIG buses. Our collaboration with GILLIG affirms our dedication to advancing the state-of-the-art in clean transportation while achieving cost savings, emissions reductions, and meeting regulatory objectives."
With over 100 years of domain expertise, Modine produces complete commercial electric vehicle thermal management systems that regulate battery, traction motor, and power electronics temperatures to keep components within optimal ranges under all operating conditions for any size of chassis. Modine solutions are available as plug-and-play systems or flexible design solutions for commercial EV customers, combining state-of-the-art, proprietary heat exchanger technology and tailored, smart electronic components to maximize cooling while minimizing power draw. The Modine EVantage Thermal Management Systems are designed to regulate battery temperatures effectively and maintain the thermal envelope of power electronics to support daily operations in even the most extreme weather conditions.
Modine | www.modine.com
GILLIG | https://www.gillig.com/
Blue Whale EV (BWEV), a leading provider of comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, proudly announces a new partnership with SWTCH Energy (SWTCH), a pioneer in smart EV charging technology. This collaboration aims to deliver innovative, turn-key EV charging solutions, tailored for multifamily, commercial, workplace, and city/municipality properties across North America, reinforcing both companies' commitment to providing sustainable, future-ready infrastructure.
“We are thrilled to join forces with SWTCH," said Rich McNulty, CEO of Blue Whale EV. “Their advanced technologies and approach to EV charging aligns perfectly with our mission. Together we can provide exceptional solutions and support to our clients.”
Through this partnership, Blue Whale EV and SWITCH will deliver cost-effective, scalable charging solutions that empower property owners to meet the rising demand for EV infrastructure. Property managers and business owners will benefit from SWITCH’s technology combined with Blue Whale’s full-service approach, ensuring a smooth transition from planning to installation and operations.
SWTCH’s suite of advanced EV charging solutions include:
● SWTCH OS: Offers full control over EV charging stations through a cloud-based management platform with real-time insights and comprehensive reporting.
● Charging-as-a-service: An optional model for property owners to acquire EV charging via monthly payments rather than an upfront investment.
The first initiative under this new partnership will debut at Prospect Bay Country Club and Golf Course in Grasonville, Maryland. BWEV and SWTCH will install advanced EV charging stations for club members and the surrounding community. These stations will offer convenient charging access while members enjoy the course or participate in other club activities, representing a significant advancement in enhancing EV infrastructure in recreational and residential areas.
Together, Blue Whale EV and SWITCH is addressing the needs of diverse property types including:
● Multifamily and Commercial Properties: offering cost-effective charging stations that boost tenant satisfaction and future-proof investments. .
● Workplace Solutions: to help attract talent. Businesses can install up to 10 more chargers than existing electrical capacity making it easier and more affordable to support EV drivers without costly infrastructure upgrades.
"Our strategic collaboration will enable diverse properties to offer the convenient, accessible, and future-proof EV charging infrastructure," McNulty said. "Whether it's enhancing tenant amenities, optimizing energy efficiency in commercial settings, or equipping cities with public EV charging options, we're committed to providing innovative, future-proof solutions that meet the unique needs of each property type."
Blue Whale EV | https://bluewhaleev.com/
SWTCH Energy | https://swtchenergy.com/
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