Thread: Fossil Fuel Alternatives

Trump Administration Halts Building of Giant Wind Farm Off N.Y. Coast

Just as construction was starting on a massive wind farm off the coast of Long Island, the Trump administration ordered an immediate halt on Wednesday that could spell a serious setback for hopes of powering New York City with offshore wind.

Doug Burgum, the interior secretary, called for the cessation of “all construction activities” on the Empire Wind project, which was designed to provide enough electricity to power about 500,000 homes in New York.

On the first day of his new term in office, President Trump signed an executive order that limited the approval of offshore wind farms. But Empire Wind had already received all of the permits it needed to get underway.

In a social media post on Wednesday, Mr. Burgum said the halt would allow for “further review of information that suggests the Biden administration rushed through its approval without sufficient analysis.”

New York’s governor, Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, quickly responded that she would “fight this decision every step of the way.” She called the secretary’s move a “federal overreach” that she would not allow to stand.

The order came two weeks after Representative Chris Smith, a Republican from New Jersey, asked Mr. Burgum in a letter to “do everything in your power” to stop what he called an “underhanded rush” to build the wind farm. Another Republican representative from New Jersey, Jeff Van Drew, has pressed Mr. Trump to put a stop to other wind farms that were planned in the Atlantic Ocean to provide renewable power to New Jersey.

Mr. Trump’s stated opposition to windmills as a source of renewable energy has been seen as a serious threat by the offshore wind industry, which already was struggling to cope with global inflation and supply chain problems. Some projects that had been proposed off the East Coast have been canceled and others have lost financial backing from their sponsors.

Among the criticisms of offshore wind farms are that they are unsightly and that they harm marine mammals and the commercial fishing industry. The offshore wind industry and its supporters dispute those contentions and have pledged to take measures to ensure that whales and other mammals and fish are not endangered by their projects.

Ms. Hochul and New Jersey’s governor, Phil Murphy, also a Democrat, have championed the development of offshore wind as a solution to their states’ rapidly growing demand for electricity. Their plans were critical components of the Biden administration’s goal of generating 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030.

The Empire Wind project was designed to produce 810 megawatts. A sister project, known as Empire Wind 2, was intended to generate 1,200 megawatts, or 1.2 gigawatts.

Equinor, a Norwegian company, is leading the Empire Wind project. It acquired a lease of the site from the federal government in 2017 and placed the winning bid in New York State’s first large-scale competition for a contract to provide electricity from offshore wind.

The company announced in December that it had secured $3 billion in financing for Empire Wind 1. The company said construction of the project began in 2024 and was expected to be completed in 2027.

Equinor is also building a port for its offshore wind project at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, which it said had created 1,500 jobs.

David Schoetz, a spokesman for Equinor, said in a statement on Wednesday that the company had just received notice from the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, which regulates offshore wind projects, to halt work.

“We will engage directly with B.O.E.M. and the Department of Interior to understand the questions raised about the permits we have received from authorities,” the statement said. “We will not comment about the potential consequences until we know more.”

Jason Grumet, the chief executive of the American Clean Power Association, a renewable energy trade group, said in a statement, “Doubling back to reconsider permits after projects are under construction sends a chilling signal to all energy investment.”

In Mr. Smith’s letter to Mr. Burgum, he said that by moving forward with the offshore project, Equinor was “endangering American lives” and the environment.

“Empire Wind cannot safely proceed until much needed further review be done to protect the public and our eastern seaboard,” Mr. Smith wrote. “I ask that you do everything in your power to halt Equinor’s underhanded rush to begin pile-driving and block construction until the critical assessment can be completed.”

Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County executive, said in a statement that the residents of his county on Long Island were “extremely grateful” to President Trump, Mr. Burgum and Lee Zeldin, the Environmental Protection Agency administrator, “for halting further work on offshore wind turbines which have created serious concerns for our firefighters, health officials and residents.”

Trump Administration Halts Building of Giant Wind Farm Off N.Y. Coast - The New York Times

Miliband accuses net zero opponents of 'nonsense and lies'

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has said the government will "double down" on its environmental agenda and accused those against the move to net zero of "making up nonsense and lies".

Political opponents in the Conservatives and Reform UK - and some trade unions – have argued that his agenda is putting jobs in traditional industries at risk and have urged a change of course.

The UK is legally committed to moving to net zero carbon emissions by 2050 – a goal set under a previous Conservative government.

Writing in the Observer, Miliband warned that an anti-net zero agenda would not only risk "climate breakdown" but "forfeit the clean energy jobs of the future".

A green power transition will help secure social justice and national security, Miliband argued.

He said that the UK's reliance on fossil fuels meant "markets went into meltdown and prices rocketed" after Russia waged its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

"The cost of living impacts caused back then still stalk families today," he said.

"So the argument for the clean energy transition is not just the traditional climate case but the social justice case too – it is working people who pay the greatest price for our energy insecurity."

On his opponents, he said there are "siren voices that want to knock us off course" and added "they will also make up any old nonsense and lies to pursue their ideological agenda".

Despite her party committing to net zero while in government, current Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has said this cannot be achieved without potentially bankrupting the country.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who has criticised what he calls "net-zero lunacy", told the Sun on Sunday that the policy could become "the next Brexit – where Parliament is so hopelessly out of touch with the country".

Miliband has been concerned that political opponents have been blaming his green policies for the well-publicised difficulties at British Steel, when in fact the trade body UK Steel has said high industrial energy costs are due to the price of gas, and not renewables.

The government passed an emergency law to take control of British Steel amid accusations that its Chinese-owner Jingye was planning to switch the furnaces off.

Beijing has accused the government of "politicising trade co-operation" and said this situation had raised doubts about Chinese investment in the UK.

Parts of the labour movement, including unions such as the GMB and Unite, have warned of risks to thousands of well-paid jobs in the oil and gas sector.

But Miliband has attempted to reassure them by declaring that green energy generation will provide the good unionised jobs of the future.

Ed Miliband accuses opponents of net zero carbon emissions '''nonsense and lies'''

Chart of the day: Australia tops the world on solar generation per capita

Australia is generating more solar energy per capita than any other country according to the latest data from Ember. Australia is in 4th place for combined solar and wind generation.

The other top-ten countries for combined solar and wind generation are in Europe, where they can share electricity across borders. Australia must go it alone.

Combined global solar and wind generation has passed global hydro generation. This year, both solar and wind generation will catch global nuclear generation, which has been almost static for 30 years. At current growth rates, combined global solar and generation will pass combined global coal and gas generation in 2032.

The current Australian Government has a target of 82% renewable electricity in 2030, which corresponds to 75% from solar and wind (plus some hydro and bio). This entails doubling current solar and wind generation.

The Capacity Investment Scheme and other policies are aimed at delivering this outcome.

Provided that there is no change of government policy at the May election, Australia will remain as the global renewable energy pathfinder: self-sufficient; located at moderate latitudes (like 80% of the global population); and demonstrating that high levels of solar and wind generation deliver a reliable and resilient grid with low prices, low emissions, low local pollution, low land use and low water use.

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Britain will accelerate push to net zero, Starmer tells energy summit

Britain will go “all out” for a low-carbon future and accelerate the push to net zero instead of slowing down as some have demanded, the prime minister said on Thursday.

In his strongest declaration yet of support for the net zero agenda, Sir Keir Starmer told a conference in London of more than 60 countries that tackling the climate crisis and bolstering energy security were “in the DNA of my government”.

He said: “This government is acting now, with a muscular industrial policy, to seize the opportunities [in low-carbon technology] to boost investment, build new industries, drive UK competitiveness, and unlock export opportunities. That is the change we need. We won’t wait – we will accelerate.”

Starmer’s speech – made in front of the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, and the US senior energy official, Tommy Joyce – made clear that the prime minister sees renewable energy as core to the UK’s future prosperity and national security.

“We’re paying the price for our over-exposure, over many years, to the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets, leaving the economy and therefore people’s household budgets, vulnerable to the whims of dictators like Putin,” he said. “It’s our determination that working people should not be exposed like this any more.”

Boosting renewable power generation would, he said, “make energy a source not of vulnerability, but of strength. We will protect our critical infrastructure, energy networks and supply chains, and do whatever it takes to protect the security of our people. Energy security is national security.”

Britain will accelerate push to net zero, Starmer tells energy summit | Energy | The Guardian

Spain hits first weekday of 100% renewable power on national grid

Spain’s grid ran entirely on renewable energy for the first time on April 16, with wind, solar, and hydro meeting all peninsular electricity demand during a weekday. Five days later, solar set a new record, generating 20,120 MW of instantaneous power – covering 78.6% of demand and 61.5% of the grid mix.

Spain’s grid operator Red Eléctrica has confirmed that renewable energy sources fully met electricity demand across the country’s peninsular system for the first time on April 16.

Wind generated 256 GWh, accounting for 45.8% of total output. Solar followed with 151 GWh, or 27%. Hydroelectric sources added 129 GWh, making up 23.1% of the mix. Solar thermal contributed 11 GWh, or 2%, while other renewables added another 11 GWh, or 1.9%. Renewable waste generated 1 GWh, or 0.2%.

At 11:15 a.m. that day on April 16, wind and PV combined to generate 100.63% of total demand – a first in Spain’s energy history. Unlike previous milestones, this occurred on a weekday.

On April 21 at 1:35 p.m., solar reached a new record for instantaneous power, generating 20,120 MW – 0.7% higher than the previous record set on July 12, 2024. At that moment, PV accounted for 61.5% of the national mix and 78.6% of demand.

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County reaches 100% renewable energy goal

Dane County Executive Melissa Agard announced on April 22 that for the first time ever, every Dane County government facility is now 100% renewable electricity offset for a full calendar year.

“Earth Day isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement. And here in Dane County, we answer that call to action every single day,” said County Executive Melissa Agard. “From our lakes to our land, our people to our planet, we are investing in science-based solutions and taking bold steps to build a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future for all.”

According to a county news release, Agard emphasized the significance of the county’s newest milestone: all county government facilities—libraries, highway garages, the job center, and more—are now powered by 100% renewable offset electricity. This achievement reflects years of strategic investments in clean energy projects and partnerships.

“This isn’t just a sticker on a door—it’s a symbol of a promise kept,” Agard said, referencing the new “Powered by 100% Renewable Electricity” decals that will now be displayed at county buildings. “It’s a public commitment to a more sustainable Dane County and a reminder that real progress is possible when we lead with purpose.”

Laura Hicklin, Director of the Land and Water Resources Department, spoke about the integration of clean energy into the countyÂ’s natural spaces.

“Our parks and natural areas aren’t just beautiful—they’re models for a sustainable future,” Hicklin said. “From solar panels to energy-efficient upgrades across our park system, we’re demonstrating how clean energy can be seamlessly woven into our environmental legacy. These forward-looking investments show what’s possible when conservation and innovation go hand in hand.”

County reaches 100% renewable energy goal | Government | stoughtonnews.com

Canada election 2025: What the manifestos say on nature, energy and climate

Liberal Party of Canada

Canada needs a climate policy that moves past division and focuses on the future we want. We need a climate policy that is unifying, credible, and predictable; that reduces emissions, drives investment and builds the economy of the future. Investments made today can drive emissions down, drive new economic growth across Canada and open new export markets with like-minded countries. Action now will be far less costly than the impacts we will face in the years to come, making these investments prudent and necessary for CanadaÂ’s long-term sustainability. ItÂ’s time for generational investment from both government and the private sector. The sustainable transition in Canada must be based on strong partnerships with Indigenous peoples and ensure they share in the benefits.

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Seven countries now generate nearly all of their electricity from renewable energy sources, according to newly compiled figures.

Albania, Bhutan, Nepal, Paraguay, Iceland, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of Congo produced more than 99.7 per cent of the electricity they consumed using geothermal, hydro, solar or wind power.

Data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) also revealed that a further 40 countries generated at least 50 per cent of the electricity they consumed from renewable energy technologies in 2021 and 2022 – including 11 European countries.

“We don’t need miracle technologies,” said Stanford University Professor Mark Jacobson, who published the data.

“We need to stop emissions by electrifying everything and providing the electricity with Wind, Water and Solar (WWS), which includes onshore wind, solar photovoltaics, concentrated solar power, geothermal electricity, small hydroelectricity, and large hydroelectricity.”

Seven countries now generate 100% of their electricity from renewable energy | The Independent

NSW approves grid access to 3.56 GW of renewable projects

This will benefit over 1.5 million homes annually.

Four renewable energy projects that have a total generation capacity of 3.56 gigawatts have been granted grid access in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).

In a statement, the government of New South Wales said the projects that secured grid access are Origin Energy’s 1,460 megawatt (MW) Yanco Delta wind farm, Spark Renewables’ 1,007 MW Dinawan Energy Hub, Someva’s 831.2 MW Pottinger Energy Park, and BayWA’s 262.3 MW Bullawah Wind Farm.

These projects include more than 700 MW of battery storage, capable of powering up to 300,000 households during peak demand.

“These projects will help ensure NSW has enough renewable energy generation and storage when coal-fired power stations retire. They also give certainty to host-communities, who will directly benefit from the fees paid by these companies to connect to the REZ,” said Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe.

The first projects are expected to come online from 2027 to 2030.

NSW approves grid access to 3.56 GW of renewable projects | Asian Power

China says wind and solar energy capacity exceeds thermal for first time

China's wind and solar energy capacity has surpassed that of mostly coal-powered thermal for the first time, the national energy body said.

China, the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases that drive climate change, has pledged to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

While around 60 percent of China's energy comes from coal, the country is also a renewable energy powerhouse, building almost twice as much wind and solar capacity as every other country combined, according to research published last year.

"In the first quarter of 2025, China's newly installed wind and photovoltaic power capacity totalled 74.33 million kilowatts, bringing the cumulative installed capacity to 1.482 billion kilowatts," the national energy body said.

That surpassed the installed capacity of thermal power (1.451 billion kilowatts) for the first time.

EU awards 445MW renewables capacity in cross-border auction

The European Commission (EC) has allocated €52 million (US$59.1 million) to nine renewable energy projects as part of its cross-border auction process.

The nine projects will be deployed in Finland and Estonia and represent 445.65MW of new energy capacity.

The bulk of the capacity added via the Renewable Energy Financing Mechanism (RENEWFM) is in solar PV projects in Finland. Seven sites were awarded under the scheme, ranging between 10MWp and 80MWp. A number of them are being built to “repurpose” former gravel and peat extraction sites across Finland.

Two onshore wind projects were also awarded in Estonia, with 31MW and 39MW generation capacity each.

All of the projects are expected to be commissioned over the course of 2027 and 2028.

Turning a landfill into a solar powerhouse Pittsburgh airport now totally energy independent

Already partially-solar powered, the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is doubling its solar panel count by utilizing an adjacent property that used to be a landfill.

Now filled in, the 12 acres of terrain will be covered in 4.7 megawatts of solar energy, capable of canceling out 5 million pounds of CO2 emissions that would otherwise be generated from burning fossil fuels.

PIT already boasts its own 23-megawatt solar and natural gas microgrid, an installation which uses solar power to cover PIT’s demands, natural gas to make up the difference during peak hours or if the sun isn’t shining, and which transfers unutilized solar power to local homes and businesses.

The new solar farm on the old landfill will support this mission, leading to fewer cubic meters of gas being burned, and more solar power being sent out into the wider area.

“We’re maximizing the use of airport assets for the betterment of the region—from air service to real estate development to energy innovation,” said PIT CEO Christina Cassotis. “And there’s more to come.”

“More” in this case means the future site of a mini-refinery for sustainable aviation fuel, according to Elektrek, which claimed the landfill solar farm would be operational in 2027 for those looking out of their windows hoping for a glimpse.

Turning a Landfill into a Solar Powerhouse, Pittsburgh Airport is Now Totally Energy-Independent

Indigenous-led partnerships powering 2 new Sask. renewable energy projects

Expected to produce enough energy for 125,000 Saskatchewan homes once completed

Two new renewable energy projects are coming to south-central Saskatchewan, both through Indigenous-led partnerships.

The projects were announced Thursday at a news conference in Regina with provincial officials, SaskPower and Indigenous leaders.

SaskPower awarded contracts for the 200-megawatt Rose Valley Wind Project, east of Assiniboia, and the 100-megawatt Southern Springs Solar Project, south of Coronach.

The projects will be developed and run by Potentia Renewables Inc. in partnership with the Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) and Mistawasis Nêhiyawak First Nation.

The wind project will operate under a 30-year power purchase agreement (PPA), while the solar project will run under a 25-year PPA.

M-Squared (M2) Renewables, a joint venture between MLTC and Mistawasis Nêhiyawak, will hold a 51 per cent stake in each project — making it the largest Indigenous ownership share of any utility-scale energy initiative in Saskatchewan to date, according to a news release.

The provincial government said the announcement reflects a broader commitment to economic reconciliation and supporting Indigenous participation in major infrastructure developments across the province.

"With these projects, our government and SaskPower are continuing to advance economic reconciliation and build on our strong relationships with Saskatchewan's Indigenous communities," Jeremy Harrison, minister responsible for SaskPower, said in a news release.

SaskPower said the two projects will produce enough electricity to power about 125,000 homes, while helping reduce emissions and maintain affordability.

Indigenous-led partnerships powering 2 new Sask. renewable energy projects | CBC News

Microsoft and Clearway Sign 335 MW Renewable Energy Deal

Microsoft has inked a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Clearway Energy Group for 335 megawatts (MW) of wind energy from the repowered Mount Storm wind farm in Grant County, West Virginia.

The deal supports Microsoft’s 100/100/0 clean energy ambition—matching 100% of its electricity consumption, 100% of the time, with carbon-free energy by 2030. It also advances the tech giant’s broader goal of becoming carbon negative by the end of the decade.

Clearway acquired the Mount Storm facility in 2021 and is now investing $735 million to repower the wind farm. The overhaul includes reducing the number of turbines from 132 to 78, replacing them with modern, more efficient models. Decommissioned turbines will be recycled, reused, or resold.

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L Oreal Reaches 100% Renewable Energy in Europe

Beauty company L Oreal announced that it has reached 100% renewable energy for its European operations – including factories, distribution centers and offices – as of December 2024.

The announcement marks a significant step towards the achievement of one of the company s key sustainability goals under its L Oreal for the future strategy, which include targets to reach carbon neutrality and 100% renewable energy use at all sites by 2025.

According to L Oreals most recent sustainability report, as of the end of 2023, 83% of the company’s operated sites globally had reached 100% renewable energy, up from only 34% in 2019. Europe accounts for a significant portion of L Oreals operating footprint, containing 19 of the company’s 38 factories, including 11 in France.

The achievement follows the announcement last year by L Oreal that it had reached 100% renewable energy in its South Asia Pacific, Middle East & North Africa (SAPMENA) Zone.

In a post announcing the achievement, Vianney Derville, President of Europe Zone at L Oreal said:

This accomplishment follows a year of strong progress, with 98% of our energy in Europe sourced from renewable sources throughout 2024. It is a testament to the hard work and vision of our teams.

We are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of sustainability in the beauty industry. Together, we can make a real difference!

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Boom Power wins permit for 400MW UK solar project

Boom Power has been awarded planning permission for the 400MW East Yorkshire solar project in England.

UK energy secretary Ed Miliband approved the scheme’s Development Consent Order application earlier today (9 May).

The ground-mounted PV project is cleared to be built at a site near Howden and will connect to the grid at the Drax substation.

A 2029 grid connection date has been offered to the scheme, according to NESO.

The solar farm’s 400MW output will be sufficient to power around 100,000 homes, contributing to the government’s targets of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and generating 70GW of solar electricity by 2035.

Boom Power founder Mark Hogan said: “Securing development consent for the East Yorkshire Solar Farm is not only a proud and significant moment for Boom Power but marks a major advancement in the UK’s clean energy landscape and demonstrates our capability to deliver nationally significant infrastructure.

“The project has been meticulously designed to integrate renewable energy generation with environmental enhancements and grid stability considerations.

“This consent reflects the strength of collaboration, detailed planning, and valuable local input – it’s a significant achievement for both our team and the wider region.

“I want to personally thank our partners throughout the process, the fabulous landowners, my co-investors Pelion Green Future for their shared vision and most importantly, the amazing team at Boom of which my dear son Sam, who is no longer with us, helped formulate the design of this important project – thank you!”

Partner and manging director of Pelion Green Future Benedikt von Bary said: “We’re thrilled to see the East Yorkshire Solar Farm reach this key milestone and it’s a great testimony to the outstanding work of the entire Boom team and their partners.

“It underscores our commitment to supporting high-impact renewable energy projects that drive long-term value, and we look forward to seeing this project move forward and contribute to the UK’s clean energy future.”

The permit decision follows a six-month examination of the proposals following an application made by Boom in November 2023.

Planning officials recommended approval of the project, which will be built across 1276 hectares of largely agricultural land comprising 16 separate array areas, an export cable route and an ecology mitigation area.

A 40-year operational life has been granted.

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Crown Estate enables 4.7 GW capacity boost at 7 offshore wind projects

The Crown Estate announced today it is moving ahead with its Capacity Increase Programme, which will amend existing seabed rights to boost the capacity of seven offshore wind projects by 4.7 GW.

The seven fixed-bottom projects are located around England and Wales, and were awarded rights in the Crown Estate’s Offshore Wind Leasing Round 3 or its 2017 Offshore Wind Extensions action. They include Awel y Mor, Dudgeon Extension, Sheringham Shoal Extension, North Falls, Five Estuaries, Rampion 2 and Dogger Bank D.

The seabed landlord said that all seven projects have existing grid connections and infrastructure, allowing for rapid deployment. Unlocking additional offshore wind capacity supports the UK government’s target of reaching up to 50 GW of offshore wind by 2030, up from around 15 GW currently.

The process for the capacity increase at the seven projects was announced in 2023. After completing a plan-level Habitats Regulations Assessment, the Crown Estate has recommended that the capacity expansion programme proceed under a derogation, with compensation measures to address impacts on marine habitats and species. The Secretary of State for Energy and Net Zero has endorsed the recommendation.

“Our purpose is to create lasting and shared prosperity for the nation. Offshore wind enables us to do that as a driver of economic growth through jobs creation and supply chain development. Delivering the Capacity Increase Programme is an effective way to provide up to four million homes with secure, clean energy and further decrease the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels, often sourced internationally,” stated Gus Jaspert, Managing Director, Marine at The Crown Estate.

Through recent legislation the Crown Estate is getting borrowing and new investment powers, making it better suited to drive long-term impact on decarbonisation.

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SSE has begun construction on its 208MW Strathy South wind farm in the Scottish Highlands.

The £400 million onshore wind farm, located in Sutherland near SSE’s existing Strathy North project, will comprise 35 Vestas V162-6.2MW turbines and is expected to enter commercial operation in late 2027.

The wind farm was fully contracted in Allocation Round 5 (AR5) of the UK Government’s Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme and will be capable of generating enough renewable electricity to power around 200,000 British homes annually.

UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “It is great to see this latest milestone from SSE which is harnessing natural, renewable resources to power British homes and businesses and investing in the Highlands of Scotland.

"Delivering more onshore wind across the country is at the heart of our mission to becoming a clean energy superpower, creating highly skilled jobs, kickstarting growth and protecting households from future fossil fuel price shocks.”

SSE is delivering the project as part of its Net Zero Acceleration Programme (NZAP) Plus, which sets out a five-year investment plan in homegrown energy to bolster UK energy security.

Stephen Wheeler, Managing Director of SSE Renewables, said: “The construction of our 208MW Strathy South Wind Farm puts SSE’s commitment to support the UK as its clean energy champion into action.

"By harnessing our natural resources in Scotland’s northern Highlands, we will be able to generate enough renewable energy when Strathy South enters operation in 2027 to power around 200,000 British homes annually and so help achieve the country’s clean power goal.

“We’re committed to delivering the clean power projects the UK needs now, whether through the delivery of our Berwick Bank offshore wind project or through new onshore wind farms such as Strathy South.”

Construction is being led by RJ McLeod, one of Scotland’s largest privately owned civil engineering and building contractors. Up to 125 full-time jobs are expected to be supported at peak construction.

Heather Donald, Director of Onshore Wind, Solar and Battery at SSE Renewables, said: “We are delighted to have started construction on Strathy South Wind Farm, which is another key project in our onshore portfolio and will see significant investment by SSE in the Scottish Highlands.

“As we look to develop a clean, homegrown secure energy system the scale and impact of onshore wind projects like Strathy South cannot be underestimated. It is also great to once again be working with local company RJ McLeod, our principal contractor.”

Colin Maclean, Director at RJ McLeod’s North Office, said: We’ve jointly delivered fifteen onshore wind projects with SSE Renewables, such as the recent Viking on Shetland and the previous Strathy North, and we’re delighted to be working together again on this important energy asset.

Danish firm Vestas will supply, install and commission the turbines. The project’s delivery supports the UK Government’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan and aligns with Scotland’s target of achieving 20GW of onshore wind by 2030.

Scottish Government consent for the project was granted in 2021, capping a near 20-year development journey.

Initial plans for a 77-turbine wind farm were submitted in 2007. A revised 39-turbine plan was put forward in 2014 following environmental assessments. Consent was granted in 2018, but the project faced delays after the closure of the Renewables Obligation Certificate scheme.

A final 35-turbine design was submitted in 2020 and approved in 2021.

SSE said the wind farm will provide significant benefits to the local economy through job creation and supply chain opportunities while contributing to long-term energy resilience and decarbonisation.

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Battery storage installations more than double in record-breaking April

More than 26,000 small-scale renewable energy systems were installed across the UK last month, making April 2025 the strongest on record for certified installations, according to new figures from MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme).

The data marks a 22% increase compared to April 2024 and reflects continued growth in consumer demand for low-carbon technologies such as battery storage, solar panels and heat pumps. MCS, which certifies the quality and compliance of these installations, reported the figures on its public Data Dashboard.

Battery storage saw the sharpest rise, with nearly 2,900 certified installations in April – an increase of 108% on the same month last year. The total number of certified battery systems has now passed 36,000, continuing the record-breaking momentum seen in 2024.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems also performed strongly, with more than 18,500 installations last month. That represents a 19% rise compared to April 2024, contributing to what MCS describes as the best start to a year for solar in over a decade.

Heat pump installations exceeded 4,700 in April, bringing the total for 2025 so far to more than 20,000. The increase comes as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) – which supports certified low-carbon heating systems – reaches its three-year anniversary on 23 May. MCS noted that applications to the scheme have continued to rise over the past year.

Battery storage installations more than double in record-breaking April - EIBI

SeaQurrent is transforming renewable energy with support from BlueInvest

Dutch company SeaQurrent uses the steady power of tides for sustainable energy. Their TidalKite System works underwater, moving in figure eights like a flying kite, to capture energy.

SeaQurrent’s founder got the idea for the company while kitesurfing and sailing on the Wadden Sea, where he saw the energy potential of tidal currents. The team started with three people, all eager to make a positive impact. Now, with 25 dedicated experts, SeaQurrent works to provide reliable and eco-friendly energy solutions, using the consistent power of tidal currents to make clean energy more accessible.

Transforming tides into power: the TidalKite system

The TidalKite system represents a significant advancement in tidal energy generation. It uses multiple wings to capture energy over a large area, ensuring continuous production regardless of the weather. This technology turns the movement of tidal currents into electricity by driving a hydro motor connected to a generator, providing green energy all year round. ’The Dutch Wadden area’s tidal energy is found in its shallow tidal channels between the islands, with relatively lower current speeds. The TidalKite’s ability to cover larger areas than traditional turbines enhances energy access and cost efficiency and makes it possible to exploit the Wadden sea tidal resource’, explains co-founder Maarten Berkhout. Unlike solar and wind energy, which need large storage due to their unpredictability, tidal energy is consistent and reliable.

SeaQurrent is transforming renewable energy with support from BlueInvest - European Commission

Groups urge faster green energy drive after nuclear exit

Representatives of the green energy sector yesterday urged the government to accelerate the development of renewable energy sources after Taiwan became the first nuclear-free country in East Asia after shutting down its last nuclear reactor on Saturday.

The shutdown of the No. 2 reactor at Pingtung County’s Ma-anshan Nuclear Power Plant is the prelude to the “nuclear-free homeland” era, Democratic Progressive Party Legislators Lai Jui-lung (賴瑞隆) told a news conference, attended by the Taiwan Renewable Energy Alliance (TRENA), along with representatives from green energy sectors.

Such an energy transition policy was carefully planned with safety, sustainability and global trends in mind, Lai said.

The government continued to bolster the development of renewable energy by establishing the Renewable Energy Development Act (再生能源發展條例), following the legislation of the Basic Environment Act (環境基本法), he said.

The proportion of power generation from renewable sources rose to 14.6 percent in March from 4.8 percent in 2016, he said.

The installed capacity of renewable power generators amounted to 35 percent of the total installed capacity of all power generation facilities last year, which would provide stable electricity in place of nuclear power, he said.

The government would cooperate with industries and the public to achieve the goal of boosting the proportion of green power use to 30 percent by 2030, as well as lead Taiwan to a net zero emissions, sustainable future, Lai said.

Taiwan has become the fifth-largest offshore wind power-using country, and had the most newly constructed wind power facilities last year, TRENA vice chairwoman Chang Ya-tun (張雅惇) said.

PV Generation System Association vice chairman Huang Cheng-hung (黃正泓) said that solar power is the fastest-growing renewable energy source worldwide, with an additional capacity of 447 gigawatts (GW) last year, accounting for 75 percent of global green energy growth last year.

Geothermal energy is promising and competitive renewable energy, of which the commercialization costs are expected to be lower than fossil fuel power by 2030, Taiwan Geothermal Association executive director Wang Shou-cheng (王守誠) said.

The development of small hydropower units in agricultural irrigation facilities and water distribution systems should be accelerated in line with the RE100 renewable energy initiative, Taiwan SHP Industries Alliance chairman Hong Cheng-chung (洪正中) said.

Ocean Energy Taiwan chairman Chuang Min-chieh (莊閔傑) said that Taiwan is surrounded by the sea and has the potential to develop 28GW of ocean energy, equivalent to 10 nuclear power plants.

Groups urge faster green energy drive after nuclear exit - Taipei Times

Originally Posted by S Landreth

Representatives of the green energy sector yesterday urged the government to accelerate the development of renewable energy sources after Taiwan became the first nuclear-free country in East Asia after shutting down its last nuclear reactor on Saturday.

Interesting choice. Their nuclear capacity was maybe 10% of the total. Meanwhile, another 10% comes from the coal-fired Taichung Power Plant, which had the dubious distinction of being the most polluting plant in the world. The pollution made Taichung city unbearable at times and it affects much of the central region. They need to get that thing shut down.

^They seem to be heading in the right direction

Wind power is one of Taiwan’s key strategies for achieving net zero by 2050, with installed capacity of offshore wind power expected to reach 13.1 GW by 2030 and 40-55 GW by 2050. While current capacity is still behind the government’s goal of 5.7 GW by 2025, Taiwan is now the seventh-largest producer of offshore wind energy globally. In January 2025, almost 46% of Taiwan’s renewable energy generation came from offshore wind. 

The sector has also become a focal point for collaboration with European companies. In 2023, the EU retained its position as Taiwan’s largest foreign investor, with investments of €2.9 billion, primarily concentrated in the offshore wind sector, which has brought rapid progress to the industry in Taiwan. For example, Danish multinationals Ørsted and Vestas have respectively developed Taiwan’s largest wind farm and partnered with local manufacturers to produce wind turbine blades in Taichung. 

lllawarra named as NSW's first urban renewable energy zone in push for local power solutions

The NSW government has launched a new approach to renewable energy in the Illawarra, pitching the region as the state's first "urban renewable energy zone".

The model leans heavily on local solar, community batteries, and existing infrastructure rather than large-scale projects.

Energy Minister Penny Sharpe said the plan marked a shift from traditional renewable energy zones (REZs) in places like the Orana and South West.

"It's not about big generation and transmission," she said.

"It's about how we support the infrastructure that's already here, how we prepare for green manufacturing, and how we make the most of the solar and storage potential across homes, businesses and communities."

The announcement in Port Kembla at the BlueScope steel terminal — where renewable energy research is underway — included a memorandum of understanding with Endeavour Energy.

It set the groundwork for trials of new grid technologies and incentives for solar uptake.

Endeavour's Colin Crisafulli said the goal was to make the most of the infrastructure already in place.

"We're looking at how we can store more energy, share it locally, and avoid rebuilding the grid where we don't need to," he said.

'Bigger mix' of renewables needed

At the University of Wollongong, energy researcher Ty Christopher said the consumer focus in the REZ could deliver 300 megawatts of local energy.

A room full of people smiling

"An urban REZ could certainly get it into the hundreds of megawatts of capacity," he said.

"With more generation on homes and businesses, and in particular with the ability to store and time shift all of that clean energy so that it's available in the evening ."

He said leaning into the local support for renewables with an urban REZ would "really play to the strengths of the region".

Even with the local consumer energy contributions, the government is still a way off its commitment of 1 gigawatt of energy creation for the Illawarra zone.

Professor Christopher said the local REZ would still require bigger solutions like offshore wind to power heavy industry like BlueScope.

"You can't run a steelworks on rooftop solar," he said.

"This needs to be part of a bigger mix, but this is something we can start now.

"One of the big challenges from a political perspective with the Urban REZ concept is it's not going to create one big thing that you can string a ribbon in front of and just cut.

"It's lots of small initiatives happening in our daily lives."

The announcement came just days after the federal government lifted a pause on consultation for offshore wind off the Illawarra coast.

The applicant, BlueFloat, told the ABC it was not discussing the Illawarra project but focused on its plans for the Gippsland offshore wind zone.

'Thrilled' with announcement

Hi Neighbour founder Yael Stone, who earlier this year criticised the lack of visible progress since the Illawarra REZ was first announced, welcomed the urban REZ approach as a smart and community-led next step.

lllawarra named as NSW'''s first urban renewable energy zone in push for local power solutions - ABC News