February 13 NEC Energy News
¶ “$65 Million For ‘First-Of-A-Kind’ Concentrated Solar Power Plant” • The Australian Renewable Energy Agency confirmed it approved A$65 million ($44.95 million) to help Vast Solar build VS1, a “first-of-a-kind” concentrated solar power plant north of Port Augusta. The plant will have a capacity of 500 MW and store energy for four to sixteen hours. [pv magazine Australia]
¶ “Nuclear Power Debate Looms” • The Federal Government of Australia said it would examine the potential of nuclear power, and discussions have been reinstated. There are some who favor nuclear power. Limestone Coast Protection Alliance chairman Angus Ralton said instead of nuclear power, wind farms and solar would be more efficient. [The Border Watch]
¶ “Solar, Solar Everywhere! Clever And Creative Uses Are Dotting The Landscape” • As the cost of solar panels continues to drop, it is becoming increasingly competitive as a popular energy source for households, businesses of all sizes, and municipalities. As a result, some solar applications are quite clever, creative, and imaginative. [CleanTechnica]
¶ “US Clean Energy Goals Hinge On Faster Permitting” • The speed and scale the climate crisis requires reforms to the way projects sited and permitted to achieve our national goals. One analysis found that the project build time, including permitting, siting, and construction, for utility-scale solar and wind facility projects averages four years. [CleanTechnica]
¶ “Electric Trucks And Buses Have Lowest Emissions – ICCT Report” • The European Commission is about to release new proposed emissions regulations for heavy duty trucks and buses. A leaked draft of the rules indicates that they will heavily favor battery-electric vehicles over those powered by hydrogen fuel cells and so-called e-fuels. [CleanTechnica]
¶ “US DOE Ramps Up Efficiency Standards For Appliances, Funds More Efficient Wind Turbine Manufacturing” • The DOE made several major moves this week. After a conditional $2 billion loan to Redwood Materials for a battery recycling facility, DOE made announcements about the energy efficiency of home appliances and wind turbines. [CleanTechnica]
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