ABB applies electrical expertise at major green hydrogen site in Denmark

16.10.2023

Esbjerg_hydrogen_plant_3D_render_courtesy_of_H2_Energy_Esbjerg_ApS — Photo: ABB

ABB has been contracted by Danish company H2 Energy Esbjerg ApS to provide basic electrical engineering for the power distribution from grid point of connection to electrolyzers, and for other process equipment at its 1 GW hydrogen production facility in Esbjerg and hydrogen distribution hub in Fredericia, Denmark. The plant, among the largest hydrogen developments in Europe, will produce up to 90,000 tons of hydrogen per year – the equivalent of about 1.9 million barrels of oil per year.

With this project, booked in Q3 2023, ABB will build on its expertise in the Power-to-X sector (PtX) for the development of green hydrogen, which already includes collaborations in Sweden, Norway, and elsewhere in Denmark.

The PtX facility in Esbjerg, scheduled to start operating by 2027, will convert renewable electricity from offshore wind into green hydrogen to support the decarbonization of heavy industry and road transportation. The hydrogen may also be used for the production of green e-fuels like methanol and ammonia.

“ABB is focused on supporting the EU’s priority to develop renewable hydrogen,” said Per-Erik Holsten, Head of Northern Europe at ABB Energy Industries. “We are increasingly active in the pioneering Power-to-X market which is essential in meeting global energy transition goals and achieving a low carbon society in the future.”

“It was important to collaborate with a company that has the knowledge of managing energy consumption and optimizing energy efficiency during green hydrogen production,” said Julian O’Connell, Project Director of H2 Energy Esbjerg ApS. “It is also critical to ensure we have a reliable and readily available supply of power to support operations at the distribution hub.”

The project by H2 Energy Esbjerg ApS is expected to create up to 60 permanent jobs and supply enough green hydrogen to meet the annual fuel consumption demands of more than 10,000 trucks, around half of all trucks in Denmark, and for heavy industry.

The International Energy Agency’s Global Hydrogen Review1 says the pipeline of projects for the production of low-emission hydrogen is growing at an impressive speed and it could reach up to 24 Mt per year by 2030, if all projects are realized.

Source: ABB

EFFICIENCY OF PANELS MADE BY GERMAN PRODUCER LUXOR SOLAR

15.10.2023

solar, obnovljivi izvori — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (mrganso)

Luxor Solar has been a manufacturer of photovoltaic modules since 2007, with headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. Their development and design center is also located there, in which they invest two to three million euros per year to provide clients and their users with the best technology for solar power plants of any size, regardless of whether they are residential or large solar parks.

“In the last four years, from the technology of polycrystalline cells, they came to the P TYPE (PERC) technology, which is used successfully to this day. In the Premium segment of our portfolio, we also have modules with N TYPE and HJT technology,” said Nino Sijerić, business development manager at Luxor Solar, with whom we discussed the efficiency and advantages of this company’s solar panels, as well as why presence on the local market is important when choosing the panel brand.

What are the advantages of your company’s solar panels?

Luxor modules are manufactured with state-of-the-art machinery and contain the most modern and efficient cell technology. HJT is currently the most efficient cell technology on the commercial market, providing the best results and module efficiency of more than 23 per cent. As a German company, we provide our users with warranty conditions valid in Germany, so our client or Luxor module user has greater legal certainty. If the irregularity of the module in production turns out, it is easier for users to get their legal effect. Our guarantees in the Premium segment of our modules are 30 years on the product and 30 years on the production. Depending on the technology, this means guaranteeing, for example, for HJT modules, 93 per cent of the nominal power of the module after 30 years, which you will not find in any of our competitors, regardless of whether they are from Europe or Asia.

IN FOCUS:

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Asia Chang Yr)

What does the solar panels’ efficiency depend on?

Cells are the heart of every module or panel; in this sense, the type of cells you use in the production of the module also defines the module’s efficiency. We offer our users P TYPE modules (PERC) or P type, which has turned out to be the most economical variant so far. Still, we are currently in transition, and a new generation of cells is competing, the so-called N TYPE cells (or N type), which offer greater efficiency, better temperature behavior and less degradation during the warranty period. However, HJT is currently the most efficient cell technology on the commercial market, providing the best results and module efficiency of over 23 per cent.

Why is the presence of producers on the local market important when choosing a brand of solar modules?

Our clients or users see the solar power plant as an investment for the future. Every investment, including a solar power plant, requires certain security. Of course, clients and users look at references and power plants in operation, ask questions, and get information to find the best solution and the highest quality photovoltaic modules. Luxor modules have been installed in Serbia and the region since 2011 – we have been present for more than 12 years. So, financial institutions in the local area and region already have experience with Luxor modules, and it is easier for them to approve loans in some cases for projects with Luxor modules. Logically, a client or user will prefer to opt for a more locally present brand. For two years in a row, we are the TOP BRAND PV in the module category in Serbia and 10 other countries in the region https://www. luxor.solar/en/news-details/11-joint-forces-for-solar-global-seals-2023.html

Cheaper modules will be found, but the big question is whether they will be better than the Luxor module in terms of efficiency, warranty, electricity production, and according to references in the Balkans for a solar power plant that produces electricity for a guaranteed life of 25 years. Whoever opts for safety and quality opts for Luxor panels.

Interviewed by: Mirjana Vujadinović Tomevski

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

Urgent action to cut methane emissions from fossil fuel operations essential to achieve global climate targets

13.10.2023

methane_metan — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (
Chris LeBoutillier)

Decisive, far-reaching efforts to cut methane emissions from fossil fuel production and use must go hand-in-hand with decarbonisation of our energy systems to limit global warming to 1.5 °C, according to a new report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC).

The Imperative of Cutting Methane from Fossil Fuels, released today, builds on findings from the IEA’s recently updated net zero pathway to limit global warming to 1.5 °C. It shows that while a drop in fossil fuel demand would cut methane emissions, these reductions by themselves would not occur fast enough to meet the world’s climate goals. Additional targeted actions to tackle methane emissions from fossil fuel production and use – such as by eliminating routine venting and flaring and repairing leaks – are essential to limit warming to 1.5 °C and reduce the risk of crossing irreversible climate tipping points.

The new report finds that rapid cuts in methane emissions from fossil fuels could avoid up to 0.1 °C in global temperature rise by mid-century – greater than the emissions impact of immediately taking all cars and trucks in the world off the road.

As methane emissions lead to ground-level ozone pollution, immediate action would also deliver public health, food security and economic benefits. Based on modelling of the UNEP/CCAC Global Methane Assessment published in 2021 – which, for the first time, assessed and integrated the climate and air pollution costs and benefits from methane mitigation – methane action would prevent nearly 1 million premature deaths due to ozone exposure, 90 million tonnes of crop losses due to ozone and climate changes, and about 85 billion hours of lost labour due to extreme heat by 2050. This would generate roughly USD 260 billion in direct economic benefits through 2050. The Global Methane Assessment formed the scientific underpinning of the Global Methane Pledge (GMP) by illustrating that there are readily available measures to achieve its goals.

“Reducing methane emissions from the energy sector is one of the best – and most affordable – opportunities to limit global warming in the near term,” IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said. “Early actions by governments and industry to drive down methane emissions need to go hand-in-hand with reductions in fossil fuel demand and CO2 emissions. This report sets out the clear case for strong, swift action.”

“Cutting methane doesn’t let us off the hook to make good on the just energy transition. But cutting methane is a low hanging fruit while we work on the overall decarbonization of our economies in tandem with supporting our societies to build greater resilience. Investments in maintenance and operational changes that prevent methane from leaking into the atmosphere are a fraction of profits made from fossil fuels. This is in stark contrast to the cost of inaction, from crop productivity losses, to impacts on human health and the economy,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP.

“We know what to do, we have the means to do it,” she added. “There is a support-system in place to help countries develop roadmaps, policies, and regulations, and to provide countries and companies with credible data to drive emissions reductions. We must do it now.”

The report was launched at MENA Climate Week 2023, a forum for leaders to discuss climate and energy issues in the Middle East and North Africa during the Global Stocktake process. This process will culminate at the UN’s Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai.

Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas responsible for around 30 percent of the rise in global temperatures since the Industrial Revolution; it is the second largest contributor to global warming after CO2. More than half of global emissions stem from human activities in three sectors: agriculture, waste and fossil fuels.

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Patrick Hendry)

Under current trajectories, total methane emissions from human activities could rise by up to 13 percent between 2020 and 2030. In a scenario that limits warming to 1.5 °C, they need to fall by 30 percent to 60 percent over this timeframe. Cuts in methane emissions from fossil fuel operations will likely need to provide around half of this reduction.

More than three-quarters of methane emissions from oil and gas operations and half of emissions from coal can be abated with existing technology, often at low cost.

Tackling methane emissions is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Around USD 75 billion in spending is required to 2030 to deploy all methane abatement measures in the oil and gas sector in the IEA’s net zero scenario, the report finds. This is equivalent to less than 2 percent of the income generated by the oil and gas industry in 2022.

Source: IEA

New trends and innovative technologies in one place

08.10.2023

burst-kUqqaRjJuw0-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Burst)

The Siemens company is a symbol of innovation and technical expertise, in which numerous opportunities for learning and improvement are constantly opening up. In addition to being known for cutting-edge technological solutions, this company has many female engineers who are technology experts, which is a real refresh since the usual engineering team is mostly made up of men. At Siemens, they do not differentiate between women and men engineers or other profiles, but work and knowledge come first. Among the female engineers is Sunčica Cvetković, director of the smart network department of Siemens Serbia.

Statistics show that men when it comes to the engineering profession, make up the largest percentage. How much does Siemens, in your experience, empower women engineers?

Siemens is a company with many opportunities for learning and improvement, and if you have that personal urge to learn, then the possibilities are endless. Although my team consists mainly of men when it comes to gender equality, I work in a company where there is no distinction between women and men engineers or other profiles; they only value work and knowledge. In the younger generations, the trend is that there are in engineering work more men changing, which makes me happy.

Colleagues in my team are experts in their work, professional and dedicated. I see my role as supporting the further development of everyone in the group and motivating us to continue achieving success. Siemens always tries to be one step ahead in the market and, somehow, sets an example for other technology companies.

IN FOCUS:

How much will digitization improve everyone’s life?

Digitization definitely makes life easier. We are all users of various electronic services that save us time. The possibility of working from home as part of the digitalization process brings a new concept of life organization in general and buys both men and women some time in their daily activities. When it comes to smart grids that we deal with, they refer primarily to the power system. These are solutions for high-quality and reliable electricity supply – digitization in the energy sector. Siemens is a leader in innovation in this area. Our mission is to bring the latest technologies that are applied worldwide closer to our users, and together we create solutions for the needs of the local market.

In the wake of the global energy crisis, the need to stop climate needs comes to the fore. To what extent is it possible to find technological solutions for these problems?

We live in fast and unpredictable times, where we depend a lot on world circumstances, and advanced technologies are the answer to some of those changes. Innovation and digitization are truly key to completely redefining economies and economies around the world. A green, circular economy is not feasible without innovative solutions that will connect our real, physical world and the one we create in the digital domain. Siemens is one of the few technology leaders that combine those two worlds, offering a synergy of hardware and software solutions that provide users with faster and more flexible operational processes and smart solutions that offer better productivity or infrastructure with efficient energy use.

Interviewed by: Mirjana Vujadinović Tomevski

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

3 myths about zero waste explained

07.10.2023

antoine-giret-7_TSzqJms4w-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Antoine GIRET)

Waste is becoming an increasingly pressing issue: for our environment, for our societies, and for human health. Moving towards a zero-waste future is not just a lofty goal but a necessity. And it can help us get closer to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible production and consumption patterns.

The concept of zero waste represents a systemic shift that requires rethinking our consumption patterns and production methods to reduce pollution, conserve resources and minimize the amount of waste we generate.

While the zero-waste vision has garnered much attention, there are some common misconceptions. Let’s debunk three of these myths and gain a better understanding of how zero waste can work in practice.

Myth 1: Zero waste means producing absolutely no waste at all

One of the biggest misconceptions about zero waste is the belief that it means producing absolutely no waste. Zero waste is a long-term target on the journey we have to start today. While the ultimate goal is to minimize waste as much as possible, achieving zero waste in the strictest sense is incredibly challenging, if not impossible, in today’s societies.

Zero waste is about making conscious choices to reduce waste in every aspect of our lives. This involves designing out waste from the product inception stage, creating reuse and repair models, and safely recycling products that cannot be reused. While some might believe this transition to be inconvenient or costly, it can actually save money in the long run, by reducing the need for disposal services and limiting the costs linked to nature destruction and negative health impacts.

The focus should be to consistently reduce our waste footprint. Achieving zero waste is a continuous journey and a useful vision to aim for.

Myth 2: Zero waste is all about recycling

While recycling is an important component of waste reduction, let’s keep in mind that today, less than 20 percent of waste is recycled each year. Most waste still finds its way into nature or the world’s landfills and dumpsites. Without any drastic changes, it is projected that by 2050 the amount of global waste generated will increase by 70 percent compared to 2016 levels.

There is simply no way that we can recycle our way out of this crisis. Instead, we must turn off the tap at the source – and that is exactly what zero waste is about: preventing waste generation in the first place, reusing materials, and redesigning products and processes to minimize waste.

Myth 3: Zero waste is for individuals, not businesses

The responsibility of reducing waste is often framed as a lifestyle choice for individuals. However, businesses have a significant impact on waste production and can make substantial contributions towards a zero-waste future.

Government policies can encourage businesses to adopt a holistic approach to zero waste by promoting product design that prioritizes durability, repairability, and reuse. They can also mandate waste reduction targets for businesses and encourage them to adopt sustainable practices. Businesses can implement zero-waste strategies by designing waste out from the get-go, reevaluating their supply chains, reducing packaging waste, and partnering with suppliers that prioritize sustainability.

Achieving zero waste requires the collective effort from governments, businesses and citizens. With the right policies and business practices in place, we can realize this important vision and create a cleaner, greener, healthier planet for all.

Source: UNDP

How technology can make the climate crisis accessible, undeniable and actionable

06.10.2023

iceland-glečer-led — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Bethany Legg)

We’ve all seen haunting images of receding glaciers, but how many of us have ventured into their melting heartlands, felt the ancient ice slipping away or heard the roar as it cascaded into the ocean?

An immersive approach to the climate crisis not only sparks much-needed collective action among government, science and business, but can also lead to more environmentally conscious decisions in the physical world. By transporting decision-makers into hard-to-reach environments via virtual tools, it makes the abstract tangible. It makes the distant Arctic and Antarctic crises accessible, immediate and undeniable.

We need to make people appreciate the imminent threat

For years, science has sounded alarm bells about climate change, highlighting the vast ecological shifts taking place in our polar regions. Now, as world leaders gather for the UN General Assembly, we are teetering on the edge of critical thresholds that could send our world into irreversible damage.

Arctic summer sea ice, a sentinel of global climate health, is projected to reach one of the lowest levels in recorded history this year. Since 1979, sea ice cover at the end of summer has shrunk by a concerning 13 percent per decade.

This loss triggers a domino effect. The vanishing ice causes the Arctic Ocean surface waters to warm, amplifying the region’s warming. This increased warming in the Arctic influences the Greenland ice sheet melt and permafrost thaw, which would cause disruption of large-scale weather patterns, an increase in extreme weather events across the northern hemisphere and a change in the Arctic’s heat-reflecting abilities. The sheer magnitude of these intertwined systems sounds a warning: Our planet’s stability is hanging by a thread.

Climate crisis: nearing the point of no return

Of 16 climate tipping points, critical thresholds where relatively small changes in conditions can lead to abrupt and often irreversible shifts in the climate system, five lie in the polar regions. And here’s the rub: At just +1.5°C of warming, the target of the Paris Agreement, three of these – Greenland Ice Sheet collapse, West Antarctic Ice Sheet collapse and Boreal Permafrost abrupt thaw – will be triggered. What makes this particularly concerning is that as these tipping points are activated, they can exacerbate global warming themselves, creating a self-reinforcing cycle. This, in turn, could propel our world into a state that’s more than +2°C warmer, with dire consequences for ecosystems and societies worldwide.

It’s clear that we’re facing a climate emergency. But when talking about melting ice at our planet’s poles, it can be hard to visualize what that means for the world, for its people and for us each individually. Leading voices on global environmental risks have long remarked on the need for greater awareness surrounding critical ecological challenges and their potential consequences. It can be even harder to translate that urgency into the many steps – both large and small – that will help us collectively come together to address it.

All is not lost

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Teodor Bjerrang)

The good news is that even as the crisis grows, so does our capacity to address it. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), serve as powerful tools that help us realize the challenges we face – while also powering platforms that can elevate diverse voices and advance ideas in our efforts to solve it.

In the World Economic Forum’s Global Collaboration Village, a purpose-driven platform powered by next-generation technology and initiated by the World Economic Forum in partnership with Accenture and Microsoft, a new Polar Tipping Points Hub has been unveiled. Developed with expertise from Arctic Basecamp, this hub offers a unique visualization of all the climate tipping points and the potential cascading risks they pose.

By pooling data from institutions, including Arctic Basecamp, NASA, and the National Snow and Ice Data Centre (NSIDC), the hub employs live simulations to present a unique visualization of impending threats, such as sea-level rise, extreme weather events, heat stress and heat waves, compromised food and water security, climate migration, disease exacerbation and disruptions in logistics and supply chains.

In the hub, people can harness immersive digital landscapes to conduct intricate real-time simulations and modelling of future situations, enabling them to examine polar warming trends that depict the consequences of not meeting climate targets, including the loss of sea ice, permafrost thaw and ice sheet collapses. This unique experience also showcases how one global risk is connected to the other, through polar change. It also highlights how triggering climate tipping points can drive temperatures higher than anticipated.

The world is at a crossroads. We must increase awareness of the crisis we face – and we must translate that awareness into tangible action. By leveraging the best of technology, we can pave the way for innovative, collaborative solutions and, in doing so, create a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

Source: World Economic Forum

Just Transition Forum highlights fair and sustainable energy future

05.10.2023

solarni-paneli-solar — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Michael Fortsch)

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Eduardo Jaeger)

The Energy Community Secretariat organized the Energy Community Just Transition Forum in Skopje, an important gathering aimed at addressing crucial measures for a sustainable and equitable energy transition. The event brought together around 200 participants, both in person and online, fostering meaningful discussions, networking opportunities, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders from various sectors. The forum reaffirmed the Energy Community Secretariat’s unwavering commitment to energy transition, regulatory cooperation, and sustainability in the face of a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

The forum delved into critical topics essential for ensuring a just energy transition, including policy planning, socio-economic challenges in coal-dependent communities, financial support mechanisms, and the positive impacts on air quality and social equality stemming from a just transition.

Key highlights from the event included the following:

Integration of Just Transition into strategic documents: Participants stressed the importance of incorporating just transition and coal phase-out plans into strategic documents, such as National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs). These documents should act as a compass for change in the energy sector, guiding the transition while also serving as a financing roadmap for just transition initiatives.
Careful Planning for coal-dependent regions: Recognizing the inevitability of decarbonization in coal-dependent regions, the forum emphasized the need for careful planning for a just transition. This planning must consider human rights, including gender equality, and secure adequate resources from diverse funding sources, including carbon pricing revenue streams.
National commitments for international support: National commitments were deemed pivotal for initiating action by local governments and communities. Furthermore, these commitments serve as the foundation for international support, as exemplified by the Energy Community’s efforts in the energy transition.
Urgency for immediate action: Participants emphasized that planning for a just transition must commence without delay, particularly in coal-dependent regions most affected by energy transition and decarbonization.

The forum prioritized a people-centered approach, addressing inequalities and enhancing workers’ rights and skills development. It also just transition to environmental benefits, including reducing air pollution and promoting healthier urban planning. Regarding financing, it recognized the importance of various funding sources, including carbon pricing revenue.

The Energy Community Just Transition Forum fostered collaboration among stakeholders for a fair and sustainable energy future, reaffirming the Energy Community Secretariat’s commitment to navigating the evolving energy landscape.

Source: Energy Community

PORTUGAL A COUNTRY OF GREEN IDEAS – A TRAIL THAT EVERYONE SHOULD FOLLOW

04.10.2023

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (francois-le-nguyen)

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (eric-masur)

I started my visit to Portugal in Lisbon, one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful cities in the world. Thanks to the Pulse of Europe project – Media Trips to the EU, I had a unique opportunity to get to know this country in a completely different way.

During my visit to Lisbon, I learned from the officials that Portugal can teach us how to go through the energy transition in a good way. The energy crisis that strongly shook Europe shows how necessary a safe and reliable electricity supply is. And while many are still trying to find the best and easiest way to achieve a stable supply of green energy, Portugal is largely meeting the energy transition goals.

They get about 60 per cent of their energy from renewable energy sources and predict that this will go up to as much as 80 per cent in two years. Portugal stopped using coal for electricity production more than a year ago when they shut down the last thermal power plant.

They are among the first countries in the world to start building wind farms and are leaders in the use of biomass and solar energy.

IN FOCUS:

Ana Fontoura Gouveia, State Secretary for Energy and Climate at the Ministry of Energy, explains that Portugal started the energy transition more than twenty years ago.

As she pointed out, their big challenge is accelerating the use of renewable energy sources. The most important thing for the country is the secure energy supply and ensuring that the industry has green, reliable, and price-competitive energy. Cooperation with citizens and policymakers is very important in this process so that everyone solves everything together to reduce bureaucracy and eliminate all other problems they face.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (nuno-marques)

Ana Fontoura Gouveia also points out that it is necessary to expedite the construction of solar power plants and offshore wind farms and that Portugal attracts investors and industries with competitive energy prices.

“Solar power plants are common here, but we also focus on wind farms. Regarding technology related to offshore wind farms, it develops continuously, which we monitor closely. We plan to use it more and more in the future as the price of this technology gradually decreases,” says the State Secretary for Energy and Climate at the Ministry of Energy.

Antonio Coutinho, director of innovation at the power company Energia Portugal, explains that innovations are key to the energy transition, and he particularly underlines floating wind farms.

“Energy transition is ‘something we must do’ because we must stop using fossil fuels and completely turn to renewable energy sources. It is an ongoing process in Portugal; everyone must get involved to put coal out of use. Electrification is the next step, followed by boosting energy efficiency, use of hydrogen, synthetic fuels and others,” he adds.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (jeroen-den-otter)

Renewable energy cooperative

Copernicus is the first renewable energy cooperative in Portugal, which gathers 3,000 cooperative members who, by association, ensure a safe electricity supply.

“This is a new way of producing electricity in communities organized by citizens and different institutions. Their buildings are covered in solar panels. Within a range of two kilometres, they can combine production and generate enough energy for their needs. They can also sell it to people who live nearby and have problems with supply for social reasons,” said Rui Valente, director of Copernicus.

He adds they currently have 1,600 customers who enjoy a guaranteed price and says that they are focused on solar energy but plan to use wind energy as well. One thing is certain: they will definitely use and sell energy from renewable sources only.

Prepared by: Nevena Đukić

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

EU aquaculture in 2021: 1.1 million tonnes farmed

03.10.2023

Photo-illustration: Freepik (frimufilms)

Photo-illustration: Freepik (kdekiara
kdekiara)

In 2021, an estimated 1.1 million tonnes of aquatic organisms were farmed in the EU, valued at 4.2 billion euros. Aquaculture, also known as aquafarming, involves the controlled cultivation of fish, molluscs, and crustaceans.

Four EU countries collectively accounted for about two-thirds (68 percent) of the total production of farmed aquatic organisms in 2021: Spain 25 percent, France 17 percent, and both Italy and Greece 13 percent.

Nevertheless, production within the EU was less than that of Norway, where 1.6 million tonnes of aquatic organisms were produced, most of which was farmed salmon.

Production in the EU is focused primarily on finfish species (such as trout, seabream, seabass, carp, tuna, and salmon) and molluscs (including mussels, oysters, and clams), which together accounted for almost all of the aquaculture production by weight in 2021. Different aquatic organisms command different prices. The production value of trout and seabass in 2021 was higher than other species in the EU (each accounting for a 14 percent share of the total value of the EU’s aquatic farming in 2021).

There is a high degree of aquaculture specialisation within the EU. Spain produced about seven in every 10 tonnes of the EU’s farmed Mediterranean mussels in 2021. France farmed most the EU’s Pacific cupped oysters (88 percent of the total) and was the main provider of the EU’s farmed blue mussels (45 percent of the total). Italy produced the vast majority (92 percent) of the EU’s farmed Japanese carpet shell. Greece produced most of the EU’s farmed gilthead seabream (69 percent of the total) and European seabass (53 percent). Farmed Atlantic bluefin tuna was most produced in Malta (72 percent of the EU total), while Ireland was responsible for almost all the farmed salmon in 2021 (96 percent).

Source: Eurostat

Energy Week Western Balkans 2023: the agenda is underway and promising a resounding success

02.10.2023

windmills-g02815a220_1920 — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (SailingOnChocolateRoses)

Photo-illustration: Freepik (rawpixel.com)

As Energy Week Western Balkan is approaching, the conference agenda promises a resounding success. Here is some food for thought to prepare for Day 1 of EWWB.

Traditionally, Energy Week has a grand OPENING with welcome addresses from governments of the Western Balkan states and European institutions. In 2023, we will be giving the floor to:

Ervin Ibrahimović, Deputy Prime Minister for Regional Development, Minister of Capital Investments of Montenegro
Dubravka Đedović, Minister of Mining and Energy of Serbia
Petar Đokić, Minister of Industry, Energy and Mining of Republic of Srpska
Vedran Lakić, Minister of Energy, Mining and Industry of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Kadri Simson, Commissioner for Energy, European Commission (online)

This year, we are thrilled to announce a new session format: FIRESIDE CHAT! We invite you to ignite meaningful conversation and discuss if a 100 percent renewable energy mix is possible for the Western Balkans together with Alessandro Bragonzi, Head of Regional Representation for the Western Balkans at EIB, Viktor Andonov, Energy Adviser to the Prime Minister of North Macedonia

POWER OF NEED & ENERGY SECURITY IN THE WESTERN BALKANS

The Western Balkans are facing a critical moment in their energy transition, as the war in Ukraine and the energy crisis have increased their dependence on fossil fuels and raised the costs of decarbonization. The region has been lagging behind the EU in phasing out coal and moving towards clean energy sources, despite having abundant potential for renewable energy and energy efficiency. The energy crisis has also exposed the vulnerability of the Western Balkan countries to external shocks and price fluctuations, as well as the social and environmental impacts of coal dependence. The EU’s introduction of CBAM, which will impose a carbon tax on imports from countries that do not have a similar carbon pricing system, will further increase the pressure on the Western Balkans to align their energy policies with the EU’s climate goals.

Join our dialogue with policymakers and regulators:

Dejan Popovic, President of the Council, Energy Agency of the Republic of Serbia
Branislav Prelević, President of the Board, Energy and Water Regulatory Agency of Montenegro
Dario Nikolovski, Director, Energy Agency of the Republic of North Macedonia and others.

FUTURE OF UTILITIES: FROM CRISIS TO TRANSITION & THE ROLE OF TRANSMISSION

The energy crisis in the Western Balkans poses a serious challenge for the utilities that provide electricity to millions of people.

One of the key aspects of ensuring the security of supply and flexibility in a power system is the technology mix. The utilities of the region are diversifying their energy sources and investing in renewable energy projects, such as wind, solar, hydro and biomass. These projects not only reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and lower the carbon footprint but also create new jobs and opportunities for local communities.

By embracing innovation and collaboration, they are showing their commitment to delivering secure, sustainable and affordable electricity to their customers. And, of course, investing in transmission will further foster renewables integration.

Our key speakers:

Luka Petrović, General Director, Elektroprivreda Republike Srpske (EPRS)
Aleksandar Mijušković, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Crnogorski elektroprenosni system (CGES)
Skerdi Drenova, CEO, OST
Jeton Mehmeti, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kosovo Transmission System and Market Operator (KOSTT)

FINANCING THE GREEN TRANSITION

The Western Balkans are facing a dual challenge of decarbonizing their economies and increasing their resilience to climate change. To achieve this, Western Balkans need to mobilize green finance from both public and private sources.

Some of the possible ways to boost green finance could include:

Developing a clear and consistent policy framework that aligns with the EU Green Deal and the Paris Agreement
Enhancing the capacity and awareness of financial institutions, regulators, and stakeholders on green finance opportunities and standards
Creating enabling conditions for green investments, such as improving the quality and availability of data, reducing administrative barriers, and providing incentives and guarantees
Promoting green financial products and services, such as green bonds, loans, funds, and insurance, that can attract domestic and foreign investors
Strengthening regional cooperation and integration to leverage economies of scale and share best practices.

Petar Mitrović of Karanovic & Partners will lead the conversation with representatives of Green for Growth Fund, MIGA, Erste Group Bank, UK Export Finance (UKEF), and others.

Official website & registrations: www.wbenergyweek.com

Source: Energy Week Western Balkans

GREEN ENERGY AND STABLE SUPPLY WITH ABB SUPPORT

01.10.2023

windpark_vetropark — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

In the process of mitigating climate change and fighting for the preservation of natural resources, we are turning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency and optimal consumption.

The use of new technologies and innovative solutions reduces the impact on the environment and emissions of harmful gases while, at the same time, modern society functions smoothly and safely. Achieving climate neutrality and reducing the use of fossil fuels requires an accelerated transition to the use of renewable energy sources. In contrast, the use of the most advanced solutions achieves the optimization of already existing capacities.

The need for a stable supply of electricity is constantly growing, especially when the demand is intensified, and this is possible only with the application of new technologies. By improving performance in hydropower plants, their life cycle is improved; and by installing ABB Ability™ Symphony® Plus SCADA solutions, efficiency is maximized through automation, integration, and optimization of the entire plant, which becomes more reliable. The Repsol company from Spain saw the quality of this system, and it was installed in five of their hydroelectric plants. SCADA provides a standard control methodology with workflow automation and optimization of daily operations with a high degree of security. More than 7,500 Symphony Plus systems have been installed worldwide, of which more than 5,000 support energy applications.

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ABB advanced wind solutions

Almost every day, some new, innovative solution in renewable energy sources is presented. They simply become necessary for large systems that use wind and solar energy to work smoothly, providing a stable distribution of the generated electricity.

Overhauling plants operating for years can significantly improve their reliability and extend their service life. In addition, carbon dioxide emissions are inevitably saved. Using the ACS800 inverter, 24 wind turbines at the Aulepa and Aseri wind farms in Estonia operate reliably. Thanks to the new technologies installed in these wind farms, ABB’s maintenance team is ready to help improve the performance of the wind turbines at any time throughout the wind farm’s lifetime.

ABB provides its customers with the most efficient technologies, products and services and introduces innovations for even greater efficiency. It is certain that increasing the capacity of renewable energy sources. However, crucial for climate change mitigation and energy independence cannot happen overnight. Therefore, we must do everything we can now to preserve the environment and reduce costs, as well as to ensure enough energy.

Prepared by: Milica Radičević

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

Renewables Jobs Nearly Doubled in Past Decade, Soared to 13.7 Million in 2022

30.09.2023

wind , vetar , obnovljivi — Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

Worldwide employment in renewable energy reached 13.7 million in 2022, an increase of one million since 2021 and up from a total of 7.3 million in 2012, according to a new report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). The tenth edition of Renewable Energy and Jobs: Annual Review 2023, is the product of a continuing collaboration between the two agencies.

The report found that renewable energy is attracting increasing investment, leading to job creation in a growing number of countries. However, as in previous years, most of the jobs are concentrated in a few states, notably China, which accounts for 41 per cent of the global total. Brazil, European Union (EU) countries, India and the United States of America (USA) were among the others. Together they represent the majority of global capacity installations and play key roles in the manufacturing of equipment, engineering and associated services.

Solar photovoltaics (PV) was once again the largest employer in 2022, the Annual Review found, reaching 4.9 million jobs, more than a third of the total workforce in the renewable energy sector. Hydropower and biofuels had similar numbers of jobs as in 2021, around 2.5 million each, followed by wind power with 1.4 million jobs.

Francesco La Camera, IRENA Director-General, observed that “2022 was another outstanding year for renewable energy jobs, amid multiplying challenges. Creating many more millions of jobs will require a much faster pace of investments in energy transition technologies. Earlier this month, the G20 leaders agreed to accelerate efforts to triple global renewables capacity by 2030 aligned with our recommendations ahead of COP28. I call on all policy makers to use this momentum as an opportunity to adopt ambitious policies that drive the needed systemic change.”

ILO Director-General, Gilbert F. Houngbo, said, “To seize the significant opportunities to attain full, productive and freely chosen employment, social inclusion and decent work for all during these complex transitions, there is a need to develop and implement specific policies for inclusive macroeconomic growth, sustainable enterprises, skills development, other active labour market interventions, social protection, occupational safety and health and other rights at work, and find new solutions through social dialogue.”

The quality of jobs matters as much as their quantity, the study notes. To advance social justice, the transition to a cleaner energy future needs to be just and inclusive for all; workers, enterprises and communities. Hence, coherent and integrated frameworks are indispensable, with a focus on wages, occupational safety and health and rights at work, and based on effective social dialogue. The ILO’s Guidelines for a just transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies provide a central reference for policy making and actions to support a just transition that governments and other stakeholders can draw upon.

A just and inclusive energy transition must also pursue workforce development and diversity. The report highlights the need to expand education and training and increase career opportunities for youth, minorities and marginalised groups. Greater gender equity is also essential. At the moment, jobs in renewables remain unequally distributed between men and women. Currently, solar technology has the best gender balance compared to other sectors, with 40 per cent of jobs held by women.

Many countries are showing increased interest in localising supply chains and creating jobs domestically, with support from appropriate industrial policies. This goes hand-in-hand with a growing desire to lessen energy supply insecurities. China has successfully pursued a broad array of these industrial policies for some years. More recently, the EU, India, Japan, South Africa and the USA have announced initiatives to stimulate domestic manufacturing. However, countries will need to find ways to combine localisation efforts with continued global cooperation in pursuit of an ambitious energy transition.

Source: IRENA

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