Block ip Trap
Mar 28, 2024
Solar Generating Capacity Now Exceeds Nuclear Power & Hydropower While Its Electrical Output Expanded by >20% in January

A review by the SUN DAY Campaign of data recently released by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) confirms that 2024 has begun with strong growth by solar in both capacity additions and electrical generation. This is projected to continue for at least the next 2-3 years. 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

In its latest “Energy Infrastructure Update” (with data through January 31, 2024), FERC reports that solar accounted for 2,527 megawatts (MW) of new generating capacity in the first month of this year – or 87.3% of the total. That is the second highest monthly total ever reported for solar, behind only the prior month when 4,979-MW were added.

The new solar capacity reported for January was accompanied by 320-MW of new wind capacity as well as 44-MW of natural gas, 2-MW of oil, and 3-MW classified as “other.” Thus, renewable sources accounted for 98.3% of capacity additions in January.

The new solar and wind brought the total available installed generating capacity of renewable energy sources (i.e., also including hydropower, biomass, and geothermal) up to 376.33 gigawatts (GW) or 29.17% of all U.S. generating capacity. That is more than the installed capacity of either coal (207.15-GW) or nuclear power (103.27-GW). [1]

In fact, installed utility-scale solar capacity (104.61-GW) alone now exceeds that of not only nuclear power but also hydropower (101.41-GW) … and that does not include the additional capacity of small-scale, distributed solar (e.g., rooftop systems) which accounts for more than 30% of all solar. [2]

Moreover, FERC suggests that utility-scale solar capacity should also exceed that of wind within the next 2-3 years. Between February 2024 and January 2027, FERC anticipates net “high probability” additions of solar (i.e., additions minus retirements) to total 85,419-MW. Further, there may be as much as 218,646-MW of new solar in the three-year pipeline.

FERC also expects 24,443-MW of net new wind additions plus 561-MW of net new hydropower and 400-MW of net new geothermal. On the other hand, installed capacity of coal would plummet by 22,240-MW while that of natural gas and oil would fall by 3,131-MW and 2,051-MW respectively. Biomass capacity would also decrease by 68-MW while the new Vogtle-4 nuclear reactor nearing completion in Georgia would add 1,100-MW.

The net result of just the net “high probability” additions is that by early 2027, solar would account for 13.83% of total available installed generating capacity while wind would be 12.79%. Taken together, all renewables would provide 35.45% of the total – approaching that of natural gas (40.88%) and substantially surpassing that of coal (13.45%), nuclear power (7.60%), and oil (2.48%) combined. 

Energy Information Administration

In its latest monthly "Electric Power Monthly" report (with data through January 31, 2024), EIA says the combination of utility-scale and small-scale (e.g., rooftop) solar increased by 20.5% compared to the first month of last year. As a result, solar’s share of total U.S. electrical generation in January 2024 rose to 3.8% compared to 3.4% a year earlier.

However, the electrical output of other renewable energy sources fell: geothermal by 12.2%, wind by 10.8%, biomass by 7.1%, and hydropower by 4.7%. Taken together, electrical generation by all renewable sources was 4.2% lower than last January and renewables’ share of total generation fell from 22.6% in January 2023 to 19.8% in January 2024.

Nonetheless, electrical generation by the mix of renewables, including small-scale solar, still out-performed coal by 0.7% and surpassed nuclear power by 10.2%.

Notwithstanding the lower renewable energy numbers for January, EIA still anticipates significant growth in electrical generation by renewables this year and next.

In its latest “Short-Term Energy Outlook,” EIA foresees the mix of utility-scale renewables to increase their share of total U.S. electrical generation from 21.1% in 2023 to 23.2% in 2024 and then to 25.2% in 2025. Solar alone would expand by 76.1% between 2023 and 2025 while electrical generation by wind would increase by 8.9%. The generating capacities of solar and wind would grow by similar amounts. EIA also expects electrical output by hydropower, geothermal, and biomass combined to rebound this year.

"The rapid growth by solar in both capacity additions and electrical generation shows no signs of stopping or slowing down," noted Ken Bossong, Executive Director the SUN DAY Campaign. “Despite a slow start in January, the mix of all renewables seem poised to continue expanding its share of U.S. electrical generation and generating capacity this year and beyond.”

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission | https://www.ferc.gov/

[1] Generating capacity is not the same as actual generation. Fossil fuels and nuclear power generally have higher "capacity factors" than do wind and solar. For example, EIA reports capacity factors in 2023 for nuclear power and natural gas were 93.1% and 58.8% respectively while those for wind and solar were 33.5% and 23.3%.

[2] In its “Electric Power Monthly” report, EIA refers to small-scale or distributed solar as “Estimated Small Scale Solar Photovoltaic.” Unless otherwise indicated, all calculations presented in this release assume the inclusion of electrical generation by small-scale solar which EIA estimates to have totaled 4,782 gigawatthours (GWh) in January 2024. That is 33.1% of total solar generation for the month.

 

Mar 28, 2024
Innovation and Impact: Unveiling the 2023 APsystems Project Award Winners

At APsystems, we’re focused on making smart energy accessible to everyone and advancing toward a zero-carbon future. By creating solar solutions that make the installation and monitoring of systems easy and more convenient, we continue to make strides with 4GW of energy installed to date at solar sites in over 100 countries. None of this would be possible without our partner distributors, installers, and end-users who continue to illuminate the way to clean energy.

So now, it’s time to celebrate them. Our Project Award winners highlight the latest and greatest projects APsystems installers are creating in the solar space, and we are seeing the creativity and ingenuity grow year after year. Thank you to everyone who took the time to enter your project into our 2023 award categories. Each entry was thoroughly considered and appreciated, and choosing our winners was not without difficulty.

In the non-profit category, Dynamic Solar & Electric NW Corp took home the top prize for its work in creating a beacon of hope for cancer patients in Washington. Idahome Energy took home the top spot in the residential category for their flag-roof installation combining the power of solar and patriotism in Idaho. Leading the way in the commercial category is Green Box Solar for their work offsetting the energy use of a mammoth manufacturing operation in Utah. Second place in the commercial category goes to Apollo Solar for their contribution to a Kentucky library. We also recognized Spring Solar for its immaculate ground mount (and impressive sticker map!) in Utah, Vegas Solar for a show-worthy installation, and Alaska Solar for powering their state toward a clean-energy future.

Congratulations to all of our 2023 Project Award Winners! This recognition of your hard work and dedication is well-deserved. We look forward to seeing what you contribute to the solar landscape well into the future!

APsystems | https://usa.apsystems.com/

Mar 28, 2024
Tigo Energy Headquarters Receives 90kW of Optimized Solar from Long-Time Installer Partner

Tigo Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: TYGO), a leading provider of intelligent solar and energy software solutions, announced the installation and commissioning of a rooftop solar system at its headquarters in California. The system was designed and deployed by Tigo installer partner, Laibach Solar, and has averaged 5% Reclaimed Energy since it was commissioned. Laibach Solar is an employee-owned solar installer in Northern California dedicated to combining high-quality components with unbeatable pricing. It has been a valued installation partner for Tigo since 2018. The installation now contributes to the growth of U.S. corporate solar adoption, which was 14% of the U.S. Solar Market as of 2022, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.

tigo solar

The installation is equipped with 180 Tigo TS4-A-O MLPE devices, the Tigo Access Point (TAP), and the Tigo Cloud Connect Advanced (CCA) data logging device. The 90kW system design, which includes 180 500W solar modules and a Solectria inverter, had to overcome significant shading challenges from existing roof features. By deploying its own technology, the performance of the system on the Tigo headquarters will only be minimally impacted by shading throughout the day and be further boosted by Tigo Reclaimed Energy technology. Tigo will also benefit from module-level monitoring and advanced rapid shutdown safety measures to protect solar professionals, building maintenance personnel, and first responders. 

“We have used Tigo products on many projects over the years because of the quality and design flexibility they deliver, and it was great to design a system for the Tigo headquarters where we were able to overcome shading constraints from the barrier wall structures with their own technology,” said Dejan Obradovic, owner at Laibach Solar. “While this system is clearly something of a crown jewel for us as a solar installation company, there is no doubt that the pressure is also on, which is why we are using the Energy Intelligence monitoring platform and Tigo EI Professional to keep an eye on things. Tigo is a great partner on our solar mission, and we look forward to many more years of empowering solar with great software and a shared commitment to quality.”

With the Tigo Energy Intelligence monitoring platform, Laibach Solar and Tigo Energy have full control and visibility over the installation. This platform not only allows Tigo to monitor Reclaimed Energy and shading occurrences but also provides optimization insights, ensuring the system operates at its peak efficiency. The Tigo Energy Intelligence Portal gives insight into Reclaimed Energy, or the amount of energy that would have been lost due to shading and any module mismatch. On typical sunny days, the rooftop system at the Tigo headquarters is projected to reclaim an average of approximately 14kWh, daily.

“I want to thank the team at Laibach Solar for the great system design and a very high-quality installation, particularly as it relates to overcoming a tricky combination of shading and permitting constraints,” said Jing Tian, chief growth officer at Tigo Energy. “With the setup we have today, our solar output is being optimized to give us the best possible gain in the form of Reclaimed Energy, which helps us constantly shave off of the power demand we would have for the grid. This system is exactly the kind of result that a commitment to Total Quality Solar can produce.”

In the spirit of the timeless manufacturing principles of Total Quality Management, Total Quality Solar (TQS) is a principle that guides a continual process of detecting and reducing errors in the design, installation, and equipment throughout the solar ecosystem. 

To learn more about the Tigo Energy Intelligence platform, sign up for a custom demo here. To inquire about products, contact the sales team here

Tigo Energy | www.tigoenergy.com

Mar 28, 2024
Noodoe Secures Prestigious GSA Multiple Award Schedule Contract, Expanding its Reach Within Federal Agencies

Noodoe, a global leader in electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, is proud to announce its recent achievement in obtaining a General Services Administration (GSA) Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract. This significant milestone, marked by the contract number 47QMCA24D0005, positions Noodoe as a key player in the federal marketplace, offering its innovative EV charging technologies to a range of government agencies.

Noodoe's EV charging technology makes managed EV charging infrastructure hands-off and reliable.

Noodoe's EV charging technology makes managed EV charging infrastructure hands-off and reliable.

Jeff Rothe, Vice President of Sales, expressed enthusiasm about this new venture: "We are honored to receive the GSA Multiple Award Schedule contract, which is a testament to our dedication to quality and innovation. This contract opens new doors for Noodoe, allowing us to play a pivotal role in supporting the government's environmental objectives. We are excited to bring our expertise in EV charging solutions to government agencies, contributing to a sustainable future for all."

The GSA MAS contract signifies a streamlined procurement process, enabling federal, state, and local government entities to access Noodoe's cutting-edge EV charging solutions efficiently and cost-effectively. This contract underscores Noodoe's commitment to supporting the U.S. government's sustainability goals and the broader transition to electric transportation.

Key Highlights:

GSA MAS Contract Award: Noodoe's inclusion in the GSA Schedule, under contract number 47QMCA24D0005, facilitates government agencies' access to state-of-the-art EV charging infrastructure.

Supporting Government Sustainability Initiatives: Noodoe's EV charging solutions align with the government's focus on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, supporting initiatives to increase the adoption of electric vehicles within government fleets and facilities.

Enhanced Accessibility: Government agencies can now leverage Noodoe's technology through a simplified procurement process, ensuring that they benefit from competitive pricing and top-tier EV charging solutions.

Noodoe | https://www.noodoe.com/

Mar 28, 2024
Boston Solar Commercial Division Completes Solar Installation for Twin Solar Systems at Framingham, MA Apartment Complex

SinglePoint Inc (CBOE: SING) ("SinglePoint" or "the Company") subsidiary Boston Solar, a proud partner of the Boston Red Sox and a leading provider of solar energy solutions, proudly announces their transformative solar installation project at Pelham Apartments in Framingham, Massachusetts. This milestone emphasizes Boston Solar's commitment to driving sustainable energy solutions in the Massachusettscommercial sector while fortifying its position as an industry leader in solar innovation.

The Framingham, MA apartment complex project is comprised of two identical solar panel systems that span across four rooftops within the complex. Each system boasts a capacity of 30.96kW DC / 20kW AC, comprised of 86 Hanwha Q.PEAK DUO BLK-G10+, 360W solar panels and two SolarEdge 10kW inverters. The installation has recently passed inspection and the company is working with their utility company to begin the PTO process.

"As we are nearing the final stages of this project, we are excited to start bringing clean energy to the residents of community and more importantly the residents living in each building" says Michael Morlino, President of Boston Solar. This project will reduce the reliance on traditional energy sources for the complex while simultaneously contributing to a cleaner and greener future for the city of Framingham, MA." 

Boston Solar maintains its track record of executing commercial projects with precision and excellence, having served renowned clients including Fenway Park, a global manufacturer, luxury hotel chain, and a Federal Agency. Updates on ongoing projects are regularly provided, with further progress anticipated. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024 and based upon the current pipeline and commercial contracts, Boston Solar Commercial is experiencing a notable increase in commercial projects, driving substantial revenue growth.

Boston Solar | www.bostonsolar.us

Mar 28, 2024
LF Energy Releases Annual Report, Exploring Community Progress in 2023

The vision of LF Energy is to create a technology ecosystem that enables decarbonization of the energy sector through innovation and interoperability. This includes the entire technology stack used by those producing, transmitting, distributing, and using energy over large grids, microgrids, distributed energy resources and storage, electric vehicles, and more. The LF Energy 2023 Annual Report provides detailed insight into the progress made last year in pursuit of that mission.

2023 saw tremendous growth for LF Energy, with nine new projects added to bring the total to 30. Nine new members also joined, contributor strength grew by 30%, lines of code hosted grew by 22%. The EVerest and SEAPATH projects graduated to the Early Adoption phase, in addition to hosted projects across the board seeing rapid growth in deployments. LF Energy also hosted and participated in a wide variety of events globally and produced four original research reports to spread the word about open source software and standards for the energy transition.

All this and more is discussed in the report. The LF Energy community invites you to review this report in detail, learn from our successes last year and take inspiration from them to drive towards an even more successful 2024.

Download the LF Energy 2023 Annual Report.

LF Energy | https://lfenergy.org/

Mar 28, 2024
Shell and Verdagy to Collaborate on Renewable Hydrogen Projects

Verdagy, a renewable hydrogen electrolysis company with over a decade of technology and product development experience, announced that Shell provided technical endorsement of Verdagy's eDynamic electrolyzers. This major step qualifies Verdagy as a supplier in its upcoming green hydrogen projects. Verdagy worked with the Shell team to successfully complete a rigorous "HAZOP" (safety) review along with a detailed Design and Technology Development Review of Verdagy's electrolyzers, as necessary and important steps to commercial adoption within Shell.

Verdagy 2 Megawatt Pilot Plant

Verdagy 2 Megawatt Pilot Plant

"Verdagy has developed and commercialized dynamic and cost-competitive electrolyzers for infrastructure-scale projects," said Andrew Beard, Vice President of Hydrogen, Shell. "We're excited with the outcomes of our evaluations and are enthusiastic to continue working with Verdagy in the near future."

Shell conducted Technical Feasibility and Technology Development Reviews for Verdagy's 20 megawatt (MW) eDynamic Electrolysis system, which included in-depth diligence of electrolyzer operation, performance, stability and safety.  Verdagy uses the 20 MW electrolyzer as a building block for infrastructure-scale, (100 MW and larger) renewable hydrogen installations.

"The Verdagy and Shell teams are excited by the successful completion of this year-long collaboration, and I look forward to the uptake of Verdagy's advanced electrolyzers by the industry following Shell's technology endorsement." said Marty Neese, CEO, Verdagy.

Verdagy's electrolyzers provide the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) by combining high current densities, the widest operating range in the industry and fast response, to enable seamless coupling with renewable power sources. Verdagy is committed to achieving the US Department of Energy's goal of $2/kg of levelized cost for renewable hydrogen by 2026; the company was recently awarded a $39.6M grant (pending negotiations) by the Department of Energy to accelerate the high-volume manufacturing of Advanced Alkaline Water Electrolysis eDynamic electrolyzers.

Verdagy | www.verdagy.com

Alternative Energies May 15, 2023

Mobilizing to Win

The United States is slow to anger, but relentlessly seeks victory once it enters a struggle, throwing all its resources into the conflict. “When we go to war, we should have a purpose that our people understand and support,” as former Secretary ....

Alternative Energies Jun 26, 2023
8 min read
Investing in the Future: Mobilizing capital and partnerships for a sustainable energy transition

Unleashing trillions of dollars for a resilient energy future is within our grasp — if we can successfully navigate investment risk and project uncertainties.

The money is there — so where are the projects?

A cleaner and more secure energy future will depend on tapping trillions of dollars of capital. The need to mobilize money and markets to enable the energy transition was one of the key findings of one of the largest studies ever conducted among the global energy sector C-suite. This will mean finding ways to reduce the barriers and uncertainties that prevent money from flowing into the projects and technologies that will transform the energy system. It will also mean fostering greater collaboration and alignment among key players in the energy space.

stocksInterestingly, the study found that insufficient access to finance was not considered the primary cause of the current global energy crisis. In fact, capital was seen to be available — but not being unlocked. Why is that? The answer lies in the differing risk profiles of energy transition investments around the world. These risks manifest in multiple ways, including uncertainties relating to project planning, public education, stakeholder engagement, permitting, approvals, policy at national and local levels, funding and incentives, technology availability, and supply chains.

These risks need to be addressed to create more appealing investment opportunities for both public and private sector funders. This will require smart policy and regulatory frameworks that drive returns from long-term investment into energy infrastructure. It will also require investors to recognize that resilient energy infrastructure is more than an ESG play — it is a smart investment in the context of doing business in the 21st century.

Make de-risking investment profiles a number one priority

According to the study, 80 percent of respondents believe the lack of capital being deployed to accelerate the transition is the primary barrier to building the infrastructure required to improve energy security. At the same time, investors are looking for opportunities to invest in infrastructure that meets ESG and sustainability criteria. This suggests an imbalance between the supply and demand of capital for energy transition projects.

How can we close the gap?

One way is to link investors directly to energy companies. Not only would this enable true collaboration and non-traditional partnerships, but it would change the way project financing is conceived and structured — ultimately aiding in potentially satisfying the risk appetite of latent but hugely influential investors, such as pension funds. The current mismatch of investor appetite and investable projects reveals a need for improving risk profiles, as well as a mindset shift towards how we bring investment and developer stakeholders together for mutual benefit. The circular dilemma remains: one sector is looking for capital to undertake projects within their skill to deploy, while another sector wonders where the investable projects are.

This conflict is being played out around the world; promising project announcements are made, only to be followed by slow progress (or no action at all). This inertia results when risks are compounded and poorly understood. To encourage collaboration between project developers and investors with an ESG focus, more attractive investment opportunities can be created by pulling several levers: public and private investment strategies, green bonds and other sustainable finance instruments, and innovative financing models such as impact investing.

sunset

Expedite permitting to speed the adoption of new technologies

Another effective strategy to de-risk investment profiles is found in leveraging new technologies and approaches that reduce costs, increase efficiency, and enhance the reliability of energy supply. Research shows that 62 percent of respondents indicated a moderate or significant increase in investment in new and transitional technologies respectively, highlighting the growing interest in innovative solutions to drive the energy transition forward.

Hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, large-scale energy storage, and smart grids are some of the emerging technologies identified by survey respondents as having the greatest potential to transform the energy system and create new investment opportunities. However, these technologies face challenges such as long lag times between conception and implementation. 

If the regulatory environment makes sense, then policy uncertainty is reduced, and the all-important permitting pathways are well understood and can be navigated. Currently, the lack of clear, timely, and fit-for-purpose permitting is a major roadblock to the energy transition. To truly unleash the potential of transitional technologies requires the acceleration of regulatory systems that better respond to the nuance and complexity of such technologies (rather than the current one-size-fits all approach). In addition, permitting processes must also be expedited to dramatically decrease the period between innovation, commercialization, and implementation. One of the key elements of faster permitting is effective consultation with stakeholders and engagement with communities where these projects will be housed for decades. This is a highly complex area that requires both technical and communication skills.

The power of collaboration, consistency, and systems thinking

The report also reveals the need for greater collaboration among companies in the energy space to build a more resilient system. The report shows that, in achieving net zero, there is a near-equal split between those increasing investment (47 percent of respondents), and those decreasing investment (39 percent of respondents). This illustrates the complexity and diversity of the system around the world. A more resilient system will require all its components – goals and actions – to be aligned towards a common outcome.

Another way to de-risk the energy transition is to establish consistent, transparent, and supportive policy frameworks that encourage investment and drive technological innovation. The energy transition depends on policy to guide its direction and speed by affecting how investors feel and how the markets behave. However, inconsistent or inadequate policy can also be a source of uncertainty and instability. For example, shifting political priorities, conflicting international standards, and the lack of market-based mechanisms can hinder the deployment of sustainable technologies, resulting in a reluctance to commit resources to long-term projects.

electric little car

Variations in country-to-country deployment creates disparities in energy transition progress. For instance, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act in the US has posed challenges for the rest of the world, by potentially channeling energy transition investment away from other markets and into the US. This highlights the need for a globally unified approach to energy policy that balances various national interests while addressing a global problem.

To facilitate the energy transition, it is imperative to establish stable, cohesive, and forward-looking policies that align with global goals and standards. By harmonizing international standards, and providing clear and consistent signals, governments and policymakers can generate investor confidence, helping to foster a robust energy ecosystem that propels the sector forward.

Furthermore, substantive and far-reaching discussions at international events like the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP), are essential to facilitate this global alignment. These events provide an opportunity to de-risk the energy transition through consistent policy that enables countries to work together, ensuring that the global community can tackle the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition as a united front.

Keeping net-zero ambitions on track

Despite the challenges faced by the energy sector, the latest research reveals a key positive: 91 percent of energy leaders surveyed are working towards achieving net zero. This demonstrates a strong commitment to the transition and clear recognition of its importance. It also emphasizes the need to accelerate our efforts, streamline processes, and reduce barriers to realizing net-zero ambitions — and further underscores the need to de-risk energy transition investment by removing uncertainties.

The solution is collaborating and harmonizing our goals with the main players in the energy sector across the private and public sectors, while establishing consistent, transparent, and supportive policy frameworks that encourage investment and drive technological innovation.

These tasks, while daunting, are achievable. They require vision, leadership, and action from all stakeholders involved. By adopting a new mindset about how we participate in the energy system and what our obligations are, we can stimulate the rapid progress needed on the road to net zero.

 

Dr. Tej Gidda (Ph.D., M.Sc., BSc Eng) is an educator and engineer with over 20 years of experience in the energy and environmental fields. As GHD Global Leader – Future Energy, Tej is passionate about moving society along the path towards a future of secure, reliable, and affordable low-carbon energy. His focus is on helping public and private sector clients set and deliver on decarbonization goals in order to achieve long-lasting positive change for customers, communities, and the climate. Tej enjoys fostering the next generation of clean energy champions as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Waterloo Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

GHD | www.ghd.com

Dr. Tej Gidda

Wind Sep 15, 2023
6 min read
Lessons Learned: The first case of heavy maintenance on floating wind

The Kincardine floating wind farm, located off the east coast of Scotland, was a landmark development: the first commercial-scale project of its kind in the UK sector. Therefore, it has been closely watched by the industry throughout its installation. With two of the turbines now having gone through heavy maintenance, it has also provided valuable lessons into the O&M processes of floating wind projects. 

In late May, the second floating wind turbine from the five-turbine development arrived in the port of Massvlakte, Rotterdam, for maintenance. An Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS)

vessel was used to deliver the KIN-02 turbine two weeks after a Platform Supply Vessel (PSV) and AHTS had worked to disconnect the turbine from the wind farm site. The towing vessel became the third vessel used in the operation.

This is not the first turbine disconnected from the site and towed for maintenance. In the summer of 2022, KIN-03 became the world’s first-ever floating wind turbine that required heavy maintenance (i.e. being disconnected and towed for repair). It was also towed from Scotland to Massvlakte. 

Each of these operations has provided valuable lessons for the ever-watchful industry in how to navigate the complexities of heavy maintenance in floating wind as the market segment grows. 

floating yellow

The heavy maintenance process

When one of Kincardine’s five floating 9.5 MW turbines (KIN-03) suffered a technical failure in May 2022, a major technical component needed to be replaced. The heavy maintenance strategy selected by the developer and the offshore contractors consisted in disconnecting and towing the turbine and its floater to Rotterdam for maintenance, followed by a return tow and re-connection. All of the infrastructure, such as crane and tower access, remained at the quay following the construction phase. (Note, the following analysis only covers KIN-03, as details of the second turbine operation are not yet available). 

Comparing the net vessel days for both the maintenance and the installation campaigns at this project highlights how using a dedicated marine spread can positively impact operations. 

For this first-ever operation, a total of 17.2 net vessel days were required during turbine reconnection—only a slight increase on the 14.6 net vessel days that were required for the first hook-up operation performed during the initial installation in 2021. However, it exceeds the average of eight net vessel days during installation. The marine spread used in the heavy maintenance operation differed from that used during installation. Due to this, it did not benefit from the learning curve and experience gained throughout the initial installation, which ultimately led to the lower average vessel days.

The array cable re-connection operation encountered a similar effect. The process was performed by one AHTS that spent 10 net vessel days on the operation. This compares to the installation campaign, where the array cable second-end pull-in lasted a maximum of 23.7 hours using a cable layer.

Overall, the turbine shutdown duration can be broken up as 14 days at the quay for maintenance, 52 days from turbine disconnection to turbine reconnection, and 94 days from disconnection to the end of post-reconnection activities. 

offshore

What developers should keep in mind for heavy maintenance operations

This analysis has uncovered two main lessons developers should consider when planning a floating wind project: the need to identify an appropriate O&M port, and to guarantee that a secure fleet is available. ‍

  • Identification of the O&M port

Floating wind O&M operations require a port with both sufficient room and a deep-water quay. The port must also be equipped with a heavy crane with sufficient tip height to accommodate large floaters and reach turbine elevation. Distance to the wind farm should also be taken into account, as shorter distances will reduce towing time and, therefore, minimize transit and non-productive turbine time. 

During the heavy maintenance period for KIN-03 and KIN-02, the selected quay (which had also been utilized in the initial installation phase of the wind farm project), was already busy as a marshalling area for other North Sea projects. This complicated the schedule significantly, as the availability of the quay and its facilities had to be navigated alongside these other projects. This highlights the importance of abundant quay availability both for installation (long-term planning) and maintenance that may be needed on short notice. ‍

  • A secure fleet

At the time of the first turbine’s maintenance program (June 2022), the North Sea AHTS market was in an exceptional situation: the largest bollard pull AHTS units contracted at over $200,000 a day, the highest rate in over a decade. 

During this time, the spot market was close to selling out due to medium-term commitments, alongside the demand for high bollard pull vessels for the installation phase at a Norwegian floating wind farm project. The Norwegian project required the use of four AHTS above a 200t bollard pull. With spot rates ranging from $63,000 to $210,000 for the vessels contracted for Kincardine’s maintenance, the total cost of the marine spread used in the first repair campaign was more than $4 million.

Developers should therefore consider the need to structure maintenance contracts with AHTS companies, either through frame agreements or long-term charters, to decrease their exposure to spot market day rates as the market tightens in the future.

yellow and blue

While these lessons are relevant for floating wind developers now, new players are looking towards alternative heavy O&M maintenance options for the future. Two crane concepts are especially relevant in this instance. The first method is for a crane to be included in the turbine nacelle to be able to directly lift the component which requires repair from the floater, as is currently seen on onshore turbines. This method is already employed in onshore turbines and could be applicable for offshore. The second method is self-elevating cranes with several such solutions already in development.

The heavy maintenance operations conducted on floating turbines at the Kincardine wind farm have provided invaluable insights for industry players, especially developers. The complex process of disconnecting and towing turbines for repairs highlights the need for meticulous planning and exploration of alternative maintenance strategies, some of which are already in the pipeline. As the industry evolves, careful consideration of ports, and securing fleet contracts, will be crucial in driving efficient and cost-effective O&M practices for the floating wind market. 

 

Sarah McLean is Market Research Analyst at Spinergie, a maritime technology company specializing in emission, vessel performance, and operation optimization.

Spinergie | www.spinergie.com

Sarah Mclean

Alternative Energies Jul 15, 2023
7 min read
Choosing the Right Partner Mitigates Project Risk

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), developers plan to add 54.5 gigawatts (GW) of new utility-scale electric generating capacity to the U.S. power grid in 2023. More than half of this capacity will be solar. Wind power and battery storage are expected to account for roughly 11 percent and 17 percent, respectively.

A large percentage of new installations are being developed in areas that are prone to extreme weather events and natural disasters (e.g., Texas and California), including high wind, tornadoes, hail, flooding, earthquakes, wildfires, etc. With the frequency and severity of many of these events increasing, project developers, asset owners, and tax equity partners are under growing pressure to better understand and mitigate risk.

chart

Figure 1. The history of billion-dollar disasters in the United States each year from 1980 to 2022 (source: NOAA)

In terms of loss prevention, a Catastrophe (CAT) Modeling Study is the first step to understanding the exposure and potential financial loss from natural hazards or extreme weather events. CAT studies form the foundation for wider risk management strategies, and have significant implications for insurance costs and coverage. 

Despite their importance, developers often view these studies as little more than a formality required for project financing. As a result, they are often conducted late in the development cycle, typically after a site has been selected. However, a strong case can be made for engaging early with an independent third party to perform a more rigorous site-specific technical assessment. Doing so can provide several advantages over traditional assessments conducted by insurance brokerage affiliates, who may not possess the specialty expertise or technical understanding needed to properly apply models or interpret the results they generate. One notable advantage of early-stage catastrophe studies is to help ensure that the range of insurance costs, which can vary from year to year with market forces, are adequately incorporated into the project financial projections. 

The evolving threat of natural disasters

Over the past decade, the financial impact of natural hazard events globally has been almost three trillion dollars. In the U.S. alone, the 10-year average annual cost of natural disaster events exceeding $1 billion increased more than fourfold between the 1980s ($18.4 billion) and the 2010s ($84.5 billion).

forest fire

Investors, insurers, and financiers of renewable projects have taken notice of this trend, and are subsequently adapting their behavior and standards accordingly. In the solar market, for example, insurance premiums increased roughly four-fold from 2019 to 2021. The impetus for this increase can largely be traced back to a severe storm in Texas in 2019, which resulted in an $80 million loss on 13,000 solar panels that were damaged by hail.  

The event awakened the industry to the hazards severe storms present, particularly when it comes to large-scale solar arrays. Since then, the impact of convective weather on existing and planned installations has been more thoroughly evaluated during the underwriting process. However, far less attention has been given to the potential for other natural disasters; events like floods and earthquakes have not yet resulted in large losses and/or claims on renewable projects (including wind farms). The extraordinary and widespread effect of the recent Canadian wildfires may alter this behavior moving forward.

A thorough assessment, starting with a CAT study, is key to quantifying the probability of their occurrence — and estimating potential losses — so that appropriate measures can be taken to mitigate risk. 

All models are not created equal

Industrywide, certain misconceptions persist around the use of CAT models to estimate losses from an extreme weather event or natural disaster. 

submerged cars

Often, the perception is that risk assessors only need a handful of model inputs to arrive at an accurate figure, with the geographic location being the most important variable. While it’s true that many practitioners running models will pre-specify certain project characteristics regardless of the asset’s design (for example, the use of steel moment frames without trackers for all solar arrays in a given region or state), failure to account for even minor details can lead to loss estimates that are off by multiple orders of magnitude. 

The evaluation process has recently become even more complex with the addition of battery energy storage. Relative to standalone solar and wind farms, very little real-world experience and data on the impact of extreme weather events has been accrued on these large-scale storage installations. Such projects require an even greater level of granularity to help ensure that all risks are identified and addressed. 

Even when the most advanced modeling software tools are used (which allow for thousands of lines of inputs), there is still a great deal that is subject to interpretation. If the practitioner does not possess the expertise or technical ability needed to understand the model, the margin for error can increase substantially. Ultimately, this can lead to overpaying for insurance. Worse, you may end up with a policy with insufficient coverage. In both cases, the profitability of the asset is impacted. 

Supplementing CAT studies

In certain instances, it may be necessary to supplement CAT models with an even more detailed analysis of the individual property, equipment, policies, and procedures. In this way, an unbundled risk assessment can be developed that is tailored to the project. Supplemental information (site-specific wind speed studies and hydrological studies, structural assessment, flood maps, etc.) can be considered to adjust vulnerability models.

This provides an added layer of assurance that goes beyond the pre-defined asset descriptions in the software used by traditional studies or assessments. By leveraging expert elicitations, onsite investigations, and rigorous engineering-based methods, it is possible to discretely evaluate asset-specific components as part of the typical financial loss estimate study: this includes Normal Expected Loss (NEL), also known as Scenario Expected Loss (SEL); Probable Maximum Loss (PML), also known as Scenario Upper Loss (SUL); and Probabilistic Loss (PL). 

Understanding the specific vulnerabilities and consequences can afford project stakeholders unique insights into quantifying and prioritizing risks, as well as identifying proper mitigation recommendations. 

Every project is unique

The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters and extreme weather events globally is placing an added burden on the renewable industry, especially when it comes to project risk assessment and mitigation. Insurers have signaled that insurance may no longer be the main basis for transferring risk; traditional risk management, as well as site and technology selection, must be considered by developers, purchasers, and financiers. 

As one of the first steps in understanding exposure and the potential capital loss from a given event, CAT studies are becoming an increasingly important piece of the risk management puzzle. Developers should treat them as such by engaging early in the project lifecycle with an independent third-party practitioner with the specialty knowledge, tools, and expertise to properly interpret models and quantify risk. 

Hazards and potential losses can vary significantly depending on the project design and the specific location. Every asset should be evaluated rigorously and thoroughly to minimize the margin for error, and maximize profitability over its life.

 

Chris LeBoeuf Chris LeBoeuf is Global Head of the Extreme Loads and Structural Risk division of ABS Group, based in San Antonio, Texas. He leads a team of more than 60 engineers and scientists in the US, UK, and Singapore, specializing in management of risks to structures and equipment related to extreme loading events, including wind, flood, seismic and blast. Chris has more than 20 years of professional experience as an engineering consultant, and is a recognized expert in the study of blast effects and blast analysis, as well as design of buildings. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from The University of Texas at San Antonio, and is a registered Professional Engineer in 12 states.

ABS Group | www.abs-group.com

 

 

Chris LeBoeuf

Mar 15, 2024
The Failing of Building Integrated Photovoltaics

I’m just going to say it, BIPV is dumb.  Hear me out….  Solar is the most affordable form of energy that has ever existed on the planet, but only because the industry has been working towards it for the past 15 years. Governments,....

Solar Mar 15, 2024
5 min read
Affordable Solar for Everyone

Heat waves encircled much of the earth last year, pushing temperatures to their highest in recorded history. The water around Florida was “hot-tub hot” — topping 101° and bleaching and killing coral in waters around the peninsula. Phoenix had ....

Jason Subiranao

Solar Mar 15, 2024
5 min read
Sourcing Solar Components Through an Online Marketplace Opens New Possibilities for Installers

When it comes to renewable energy, everyone talks about solar, but the solar industry is behind the times when it comes to procuring equipment. E-procurement is becoming the norm for B2B purchases. Think of using Amazon for industrial parts. While ot....

Mitch Bihuniak

Mar 28, 2024

Solar Generating Capacity Now Exceeds Nuclear Power & Hydropower While Its Electrical Output Expanded by >20% in January

Mar 28, 2024

Innovation and Impact: Unveiling the 2023 APsystems Project Award Winners

Mar 28, 2024

Tigo Energy Headquarters Receives 90kW of Optimized Solar from Long-Time Installer Partner

Mar 28, 2024

Boston Solar Commercial Division Completes Solar Installation for Twin Solar Systems at Framingham, MA Apartment Complex

Mar 28, 2024

EnergySage Launches Installer of the Year Awards to Recognize the Resilience of Outstanding Installers in the Clean Energy Industry

Mar 28, 2024

Greenskies Clean Focus and Seminole Financial Services Celebrate 14 Years of Partnership to Accelerate Renewable Energy

Mar 28, 2024

SolarEdge Empowers Dallas Community with Sustainable Energy Hub at Restorative Farms in Dallas

Mar 28, 2024

Origis Energy Promotes Tanya Sessions to Managing Director Power Origination

Mar 15, 2024
The Crucial Role of Electrical Insulation for Wind Turbines

Wind turbines play a pivotal role in the global transition to sustainable energy sources. However, the harsh environmental conditions in which wind turbines operate, such as extreme temperatures, high humidity, and exposure to various contaminants, p....

Wind Mar 15, 2024
6 min read
Wind Systems, Alarm Data & Actionable Insights

Wind energy remains the leading non-hydro renewable technology, and one of the fastest-growing of all power generation technologies. The key to making wind even more competitive is maximizing energy production and efficiently maintaining the assets. ....

Dr. Sandeep Gupta

Wind Mar 15, 2024
4 min read
A Safe Passage Through the Winds: Turbine site visits

The allure of wind turbines is undeniable. For those fortunate enough to visit these engineering marvels, it’s an experience filled with awe and learning. However, the magnificence of these structures comes with inherent risks, making safety an abs....

Katie Bielefeld

Mar 28, 2024

Natural Power Supports DIF Capital Partners' Sale of UK Onshore Wind Farm

Mar 27, 2024

ACP Statement on Empire Wind’s South Brooklyn Marine Terminal Project Labor Agreement

Mar 27, 2024

SouthCoast Wind Submits Bid in Tri-State Solicitation

Mar 27, 2024

Maine Governor Janet Mills to Speak at Offshore Wind Industry Conference

Mar 27, 2024

Acquisition of Acteon Group

Mar 27, 2024

World's Largest Tonnage and Highest Lift Wheeled Crane Completes Its First Lift in Hengshui, China

Mar 26, 2024

Biden-Harris Administration Approves Seventh Offshore Wind Project

Mar 26, 2024

Sunrise Wind Receives Federal Record of Decision, Takes Final Investment Decision

Jan 15, 2024
Precision Humidity Measurement Drives Fuel Cell Development Forward

Not enough people know that hydrogen fuel cells are a zero-emission energy technology. Even fewer know water vapor's outsized role in electrochemical processes and reactions. Producing electricity through a clean electrochemical process with water....

Energy Storage Jan 15, 2024
5 min read
‘Driving’ Change: EV Tax Credit Revolution Unveiled in 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable transportation, a ground-breaking shift is here: 2024 ushers in a revolutionary change in Electric Vehicle (EV) tax credits in the United States. Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a transforma....

Greg Reimer

Energy Storage Jan 15, 2024
6 min read
Reaching Pricing Parity: Public EV fast charger vs. traditional fuel

The fact that EV charging is currently cheaper than filling up your traditional gas tank has set a precedent that public EV charging will always remain less expensive. This is certainly a good thing to support the adoption of EVs, but the high infras....

Cole Rosson

Mar 28, 2024

Noodoe Secures Prestigious GSA Multiple Award Schedule Contract, Expanding its Reach Within Federal Agencies

Mar 28, 2024

Shell and Verdagy to Collaborate on Renewable Hydrogen Projects

Mar 28, 2024

Lightshift Energy Raises $100 Million From Greenbacker Capital Management to Expand Utility Scale Battery Storage Across North America

Mar 28, 2024

Voltera Welcomes Marie Robinson to Its Board of Directors

Mar 27, 2024

TANAKA to Install 500 kW Fuel Cell System to Promote the Use of Hydrogen Energy at Production Plants

Mar 27, 2024

Greenlane Announces 280-mile Corridor of Commercial EV Charging Stations from Los Angeles to Las Vegas

Mar 27, 2024

FlexGen Launches HybridOS Analyze BESS Software as a Service

Mar 27, 2024

Spark Spot Ignites Excitement with Land Acquisition for New EV Charging Station in Texas

Jan 15, 2024
Mind Your Intellectual Property: Strategies for renewable energy leadership

Now more than ever, it would be difficult to overstate the importance of the renewable energy industry. Indeed, it seems that few other industries depend as heavily on constant and rapid innovation. This industry, however, is somewhat unique in its e....

Alternative Energies Nov 15, 2023
4 min read
The Future of Houses is Passive

University of Toronto’s latest student residence welcomes the future of living with spaces that are warmed by laptops and shower water.  In September 2023, one of North America’s largest residential passive homes, Harmony Commons, located....

Justin Biordi

Alternative Energies Nov 15, 2023
5 min read
Demand Response Program Management: Outsourcing vs. in-house

For decades, demand response (DR) has proven a tried-and-true conservation tactic to mitigate energy usage during peak demand hours. Historically, those peak demand hours were relatively predictable, with increases in demand paralleling commuter and ....

Syd Bishop

Mar 28, 2024

LF Energy Releases Annual Report, Exploring Community Progress in 2023

Mar 27, 2024

United Rentals Completes Acquisition of Yak Access

Mar 27, 2024

Premier Truck Rental Welcomes Matt Rademacher as Michiana Territory Manager

Mar 26, 2024

Premier Truck Rental Welcomes Matt Rademacher as Michiana Territory Manager

Mar 26, 2024

3M Invests in Hydrogen Electrolyzer Manufacturer EVOLOH

Mar 26, 2024

Vitro Architectural Glass Announces New GlassFinder Tool

Mar 26, 2024

Nu:ionic Hydrogen-Producing Microwave Reactor Achieves Commercial Threshold

Mar 26, 2024

TGS Appoints New EVP of Imaging and Technology, Wadii El Karkouri