AI Rewrites the Rules of Power Resilience

Sineng Electric, a global leader in solar and energy storage solutions, has officiallyinaugurated its North America Service Center in Katy, Texas. This strategic move highlights the company’s commitment to providing superior local support, delivering exceptional value to customers, and expanding its presence in the U.S. clean energy sector.

“As the United States accelerates its shift towards renewable energy to meet ambitious net-zero targets, the demand for advanced solar and energy storage solutions is surging,” said Viktor Duan, Vice Chairman and Co-founder of Sineng Electric. “In response, Sineng has strategically established its new service center to provide on-the-ground expertise, responsive local customer service, and cutting-edge solutions to scale up the adoption of sustainable energy across the country.”

Don McCoy, Mayor of Fulshear, emphasized the region’s immense potential. "With its abundant solar resources, robust energy infrastructure, and spirit of innovation, Texas - particularly the Houston area - is poised to lead America’s renewable energy revolution. We enthusiastically welcome Sineng Electric to our vibrant community, confident in their ability to help shape a future that is brighter, greener, and full of possibilities," he stated.

The facility in Katy will function as a one-stop service hub, encompassing a warehouse, office space, and technical support center. Customers and partners will benefit from a holistic service experience, including collaborative project planning, operations and maintenance (O&M) training, and real-time technical support to improve project performance.

At the ceremony, Sineng’s technical team introduced its solar and energy storage solutions, especially the latest addition to its product lineup, the 400kW string PCS. This product exemplifies Sineng’s ongoing dedication to addressing market demands with innovative, high-performance solutions. Additionally, Sineng Electric offers a diverse portfolio of products tailored to the U.S. market, most of which have obtained key certifications, including UL 1741, UL 1741 SB, IEEE 1547, CSA C22.2 No.107.1, and CEC Efficiency.

“Looking ahead, Sineng Electric is poised to further its role as a trusted partner in the renewable energy landscape,” said Viktor Duan, Vice Chairman and Co-founder of Sineng Electric. “Leveraging our global expertise and industry leadership, we aim to empower communities to achieve their clean energy objectives, driving both regional and global progress toward a sustainable and greener future.”

Sineng Electric | https://en.si-neng.com/

JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (the "Company," or "JinkoSolar") (NYSE: JKS), one of the largest and most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world, announced that it has been recognized as an Overall Highest Achiever in Renewable Energy Testing Center's ("RETC") 2024 PV Module Index Report ("PVMI"). This marks the fifth consecutive year that JinkoSolar has earned this notable award.

Since its launch in 2019, RETC's PVMI has gathered results from comprehensive beyond-certification bankability tests conducted on modules over 12 months. These tests are performed in state-of-the-art laboratories using certified equipment under audited and controlled conditions. The Overall Highest Achiever designation is the top award, recognizing manufacturers who excel in all three PVMI categories: reliability, performance, and quality. The program provides assurance to project owners, insurers, financiers, and engineers that mass-produced PV products will perform reliably during commercial operations.

"We are honored to receive the Overall Highest Achiever award for the fifth consecutive year," said Nigel Cockroft, General Manager of JinkoSolar (U.S.) Inc. "This recognition highlights our steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and high-performing modules, reinforcing our position as one of the industry's leading, bankable manufacturers."

"Our highest recognition is an exceptionally high bar to pass in any given year—let alone for five years running. We commend JinkoSolar for its demonstrable commitment to excellence in solar manufacturing," said Cherif Kedir, President & CEO, RETC.

JinkoSolar | www.jinkosolar.com

As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), through its Loan Programs Office (LPO), announced the closing of a $72.8 million loan guarantee to finance the development of a solar-plus-long-duration-energy-storage microgrid. The microgrid will be located on the Tribal lands of the Viejas (Baron Long) Group of Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians of the Viejas Reservation near Alpine, California. This project—supported by a grant from the California Energy Commission, investments from U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance, a subsidiary of U.S. Bank, and Starbucks—will provide the Viejas Band with reliable utility-scale renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure through the installation of a 15 MW photovoltaic solar generation system and a 70 MWh battery long-duration energy storage system. Today’s announcement underscores President Biden and Vice President Harris’ deep commitment to working with Tribal Nations and communities to build an inclusive, equitable, and resilient clean energy future. 

Madison Energy Infrastructure (MEI) and Stafford County Public Schools held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil Virginia's largest school solar array, located on North Stafford High School's rooftop. The ceremony included remarks from the Chief Economist for the Investing in America Cabinet at the White House, Dr. Heather Boushey, Virginia State Senators Tara Durant and Jeremy McPike, Stafford County Board of Supervisors member Dr. Pamela Yeung, and Stafford School Board Chair Maureen Siegmund.

"Yesterday's ribbon cutting marks an exciting step forward for our school and community. The installation of this rooftop solar array not only reduces our environmental footprint, but also serves as a powerful educational tool for our students," said Chris R. Fulmer, Acting Superintendent of Stafford County Public Schools. "Through this project, students are learning the real-world benefits of renewable energy and how it contributes to a sustainable future."

This 1.8-megawatt project, consisting of 3,300 solar panels, will save the school system an estimated $2.8 million in electric bills over the next 25 years due to the size and efficiency of the on-site generation from the solar rooftop array. The rooftop will also generate 54 million kilowatt hours of clean energy and offset 41,583 tons of CO2.

"It's an honor to partner with Stafford County Public Schools on this monumental project, with implications for school systems across Virginia as they look toward the future of clean energy," said Rich Allevi, Vice President of Energy Solutions with MEI. "We are grateful for systems like Stafford Schools that are prioritizing clean energy and as a result, savings to their school system and ongoing education for their students. This project at North Stafford High School will pave the way for a greener outlook while serving as an inspirational model for other school districts across the state and nation."

Installation of this project began in February of this year, and yesterday's ribbon-cutting ceremony officially marks the completion of the project.

"This rooftop solar array represents a significant milestone for our school division," said Maureen Siegmund, Stafford School Board Chair. "We are proud to be a part of this energy and cost savings project, while also providing our students with real-world educational opportunities to engage in this field at North Stafford High School."

In addition to savings for the school system, this project will provide students with continuous learning opportunities. Students will engage with MEI's Solar Empowered Schools curriculum, which integrates real-time data from the solar panels into energy and science lessons, providing invaluable insights into renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Students have already begun participation in MEI's interactive learning opportunities, including solar-empowered school modules and VR educational tours of the rooftop.

According to Dr. Pamela Yeung, who serves on the Stafford County Board of Supervisors, representing the  Garrisonville District, not only is this project significant for North Stafford High School, but for the entire county as well.

 "This project exemplifies how we can inspire environmental stewardship in our students and the broader community," Yeung said. "Together, we are shaping a more sustainable, environmentally conscious future for Stafford County."

Madison Energy Infrastructure | www.madisonei.com

Plug’n Drive and Electricity Canada are pleased to announce that Electric Vehicle Network and PowerON and are the winners of the 2024 Canadian Electric Vehicle (EV) Awards, presented at EVVE 2024 in Halifax, Canada’s biggest electric vehicle event held annually by Electric Mobility Canada, the hosting sponsor of the EV Awards program.  

Electric Vehicle Network is the winner of the Mike Brigham Used Electric Vehicle Dealership Award, for car dealerships excelling in the sale and promotion of used fully electric or plug-in hybrid electric cars. 

The Electric Vehicle Network was founded in Mississauga, ON, in 2018 by Darryl Croft and Johnny Beckett, who were present in Halifax to receive the award. 

“We believe that the path to a more sustainable future depends not only on improving electric transportation itself, but making EVs easy, accessible, and affordable – for anyone.” says Mr. Croft. “Since we started EV Network, we’ve sold hundreds of EVs of every make, model, and configuration, and we have been training our after-market staff to safely work and retool these incredible vehicles.”

“Furthermore, we have developed Rent Electric,” adds Mr. Beckett, “an innovative EV Rental and EV Carshare platform, that provides thousands of unique EV experiences across several locations.” 

With an eye towards the future, EV Network is launching a new retail location in the Woodside community of Dartmouth, NS. Specializing in the acquisition of high-quality electric cars for rental and sale, this new retail location will assist the local community in increasing EV adoption across the board. 

PowerON is the winner of the Tom Mitchell Electric Vehicle Leadership Award, for Canadian energy companies demonstrating outstanding leadership in the promotion or advancement of electric vehicle adoption.

PowerON Energy Solutions, a subsidiary of Ontario Power Generation (OPG), is at the forefront of transit and commercial fleet electrification. It is being honoured for its work with Canada's largest municipal transit agency, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), to support the TTC’s transition to a fully electrified bus fleet. The TTC's electrification program is North America's largest and most ambitious single transit electrification initiative. PowerON's role includes designing, building, operating, maintaining, and owning all electrification infrastructure, such as chargers, battery energy storage systems (BESS), backup generation, energy management systems and solar, etc. 

“Many years ago, while leading our parent company OPG, Tom [Mitchell] had the vision to see our electric future. Today, both OPG and PowerON continue Tom’s legacy as we work to electrify life in one generation,” says Keegan Tully, PowerON President and CEO, who was present in Halifax to receive the award.

“PowerON and our fleet partners are leading some of the most ambitious heavy-duty electric vehicle charging projects in North America,” adds Mr. Tully. “By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, we are making a difference today and also paving the way for tomorrow. We are grateful for the recognition and will continue working to leverage Canada’s clean electricity supply to reduce emissions, fight climate change, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for all Canadians.”

Presenting the awards were Electricity Canada President and CEO, Francis Bradley and Plug’n Drive President and CEO, Cara Clairman. 

“Canada has one of the cleanest electricity grids in the world. It powers our homes, it powers our businesses, and increasingly, it powers our vehicles,” says Mr. Bradley. “Electricity Canada is proud to be a presenting sponsor of this year’s EV Awards, celebrating the EV dealers and electricity companies that are working hard to accelerate the electrification of transportation in Canada.”

“The global shift toward electrification is accelerating and we are celebrating those who are making it possible for Canadians to choose electric mobility,” says Ms. Clairman. “Innovators like the EV Network and PowerON are excelling at providing new ways for Canadians to embrace electric transportation in their lives.” 

“We congratulate this year’s EV Awards Program winners and applaud their innovation and pioneering work,” says Kurt Sampson, CAA Atlantic Zero-Emission Vehicle Advocate. “We are proud to be a sponsor of the Canadian Electric Vehicle Awards Program which celebrates those who are leading the way to accessible and affordable EV options for Canadians.”

The winners were selected by an external judging committee comprised of Canadian EV experts drawn from industry, non-profit organizations, government, and the media. 

Read more about the Electric Vehicle Awards Program.

Electricity Canada | www.electricity.ca

Canadian Automobile Association | www.caa.ca

Plug’n Drive | plugndrive.ca

As part of their ongoing commitment to lower the carbon intensity of their operations, Chevron Shipping Company LLC (Chevron), a subsidiary of Chevron U.S.A. Inc., and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) announced an agreement to install Wind Challenger, a hard sail wind-assisted ship propulsion system developed by MOL and Oshima Shipbuilding together (Note 1), to a new build LNG carrier under long term charter from MOL Encean Pte. Ltd. (MOL’s 100% indirectly owned subsidiary) to Chevron Asia Pacific Shipping Pte. Ltd. This vessel will mark the world’s first LNG carrier equipped with Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion Systems.

The vessel is under construction at the Geoje Shipyard of Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. and is scheduled for delivery in 2026. In August 2024, MOL obtained an approval in principle (AiP) by Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (Class NK) – a first for an LNG carrier with a Wind-Assisted Ship Propulsion System (Note 2). The Chevron chartered vessel will be the first application.

Wind Challenger will help reduce fuel consumption and GHG emissions by using its unique telescopic sails.

In addition to the robust design of Wind Challenger itself, additional safety measures include a fully enclosed navigation bridge and a lookout station on the vessel’s fore deck to further enhance visibility.

For tradability, the installation position of the Wind Challenger aims to minimize impact on the existing design of membrane type LNG Carriers. It will enable the retention of the existing mooring arrangement unchanged and thereby minimize impacts on ship shore compatibility, together with limited impact on the vessel’s windage area.

“We’re proud to partner with MOL in Wind Challenger’s industry-first LNG installation,” said Barbara Pickering, President of Chevron Shipping Company. “This is another example of using novel approaches in hard-to-abate sectors to reduce carbon intensity in our LNG fleet.”

Takeshi Hashimoto, President, and CEO of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, said, “With the understanding and cooperation of Chevron, we are delighted to be able to expand the Wind Challenger Project to LNG carriers in addition to the two delivered Wind Challenger-equipped bulkers (Note 3) and other ongoing projects (Note 4). Achieving GHG reduction in the maritime transport of LNG, which is increasingly in demand worldwide as a transition fuel, is a very important mission for us. This project will undoubtedly be a significant milestone towards achieving 'net-zero emissions by 2050', a medium to long-term goal of the Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Group, as stated in our 'Environmental Vision 2.2'.”

The Wind Challenger technology will be on exhibit at the MOL booth at the Gastech Exhibition & Conference 2024 in Houston, September 17-20. Information sessions on how the technology can be applied to both LNG carriers and other vessels will also be held.

＜Vessel Outline＞

(Note 1) For details, please refer to the following web site.
Wind Challenger: The Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion System | SERVICES | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. Solutions (mol-service.com) 
(Note 2) For details, please refer to the following press release.
MOL Obtains AiP for "LNG Carrier Installing Wind Challenger" - The World's First Approval for an LNG Carrier - | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines 
(Note 3) For details, please refer to the following press releases.
Delivery of SHOFU MARU, World's First Cargo Vessel equipped with 'Wind Challenger' Hard Sail | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines 
MOL Announces Delivery of Bulk Carrier Green Winds, 2nd Vessel Equipped with Wind Challenger Hard Sail Propulsion System | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines 
(Note 4) For details, please refer to the following press releases.
Wind Challenger to be Installed on Coal Carrier for J-Power - World's 1st Retrofit on an In-service Vessel - | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines 
Wind Propulsion Systems will be Installed on 7 Vessels Operated by MOL Drybulk - Steadily Pursuing to '25 Wind Challenger-equipped Vessels' by 2030 - | Mitsui O.S.K. Lines

Chevron | www.chevron.com

MOL | https://www.mol.co.jp/en/

As the world transitions away from fossil fuels, the demand for rare earth elements (REEs) is only going to increase. These elements are vital to the production of technologies that will make the transition to green energy possible. While REEs are not technically rare, large deposits are found in only a few locations around the world – mostly in China – and they are difficult to extract.

“If we want to switch to electric vehicles by 2035 and be net-zero by 2050 we’re going to need new sources of these metals,” says Brendan Bishop, a PhD candidate studying REEs at the University of Regina.

Bishop and his colleagues have been studying one potential new source of these valuable elements: the ash that is produced as waste from coal-fired power plants. Researchers have looked into REEs in coal waste in the United States and China, but there has been little work done on ash from Canadian coal.

The team analyzed samples of ash from coal plants in Alberta and Saskatchewan to determine how much REEs the ashes contained, and how they could be extracted. While the concentration of REEs in Canadian coal ash is on par with that found in ash from other parts of the world, questions remained about whether the REEs are dispersed evenly throughout the ash particles or concentrated in certain minerals found within the ashes. 

Using the powerful X-ray beamlines at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), Bishop probed the ash, in search of a rare earth element called yttrium. They found it was distributed in specific mineral phases within the ash particles, most often in the form of silicates or phosphates such as xenotime which remain unchanged when the coal is burned.  The work was published in Environmental Science and Technology.

Bishop says this data can help inform development of an efficient and environmentally friendly process for recovering REEs from the ash. “This will be important when we develop a recovery process because extracting rare earth elements is technologically challenging,” he says. “In this case, since it’s in xenotime which is an ore mineral, maybe we can use an existing process and modify it for coal ash.”

The amount of REEs that could be extracted from coal ash will depend on the recovery process, says Bishop. But he thinks it could be a good short-to-medium-term source of the metals. The concentration is not particularly high, but that is offset by the fact that waste coal ash is plentiful. The concentration throughout the ash is also fairly homogenous, so no complicated grading is required as with mined ores. Once the extraction process is perfected, it will also be much faster than opening new mines, which often have gaps of up to 17 years between exploration and production.

Recovering REEs from the ash is also an important step toward a circular economy. Some ash is used in making concrete, but most just sits in landfills or tailings ponds near power plants. “It not only gets rid of an environmental liability, but it also gives us the metals we need for clean energy technologies,” says Bishop.

Canadian Light Source | https://www.lightsource.ca/