News Clipping Archive - Page 1101 of 1294

Renewables

Growth demand fuels solar power boom in Vietnam

26 June 2019

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Vietnam

HCM City (VNA) – Many solar power plants have become operational in the southern region in the first half of 2019, showing part of the solar power development wave to meet the economic growth demand in Vietnam.

In mid-June, TTC Group of Vietnam and Gulf Group of Thailand opened two solar power plants in Thanh Thanh Cong Industrial Park in An Hoa commune of Trang Bang district, the southern province of Tay Ninh.

Gulf Group said the two firms have cooperated with experienced contractors in the field of renewable energy in Vietnam since this is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia. Particularly, many forecasts said energy demand in the country will increase strongly in the time ahead.

Also in June, a joint venture of the Vietnamese group Bamboo Capital and Vietnam-Oman Investment, a joint venture between the State General Reserve Fund of Oman and the State Capital Investment Corporation of Vietnam, inaugurated a solar power plant in Thanh An commune of Thanh Hoa district, southern Long An province.

With 123,000 solar panels, this factory is expected to generate 57 million kWh per year, equivalent to the annual consumption of 22,000 households in Vietnam. It is hoped to help reduce about 16,000 tonnes of CO2 emitted every year.

Some reports indicated that to maintain the current economic expansion in Vietnam, every percent in GDP growth needs a growth rate of 2.2 percent in electricity output. Additionally, to ensure energy security, investing in renewable energy is considered an urgent solution to all countries, including Vietnam. It will also help with the switch to a green economy and the diversification of energy sources.

To catch up with Vietnam’s economic growth, the electricity sector needs to grow by 10 percent annually to produce 500 billion kWh by 2030.

According to the national electricity development plan, the capacity of power generation facilities installed will have to reach 130,000 MW by 2030, compared to 47,000 MW at present.

Therefore, new facilities with a combined capacity of 83,000 MW will need to be built and put into operation from now to 2030. More power transmission and distribution infrastructure is also needed.

Vice Chairwoman of TTC Group Huynh Bich Ngoc said her business has inaugurated seven solar power factories nationwide so far, and it is also planning another plant with a capacity of 30MW in the southern province of Ben Tre.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Hoang Quoc Vuong said the country’s renewable energy development strategy until 2030, with a vision to 2050, was approved in 2015. The Government has also issued many incentives for renewable energy projects, especially solar and wind power ones.

Subsequently, ministries, sectors and localities have been implementing many policies to attract investment to renewable energy. By the end of 2018, solar power projects with a combined capacity of about 10,000 MW had been registered, he noted.-VNA

Others

Paying it forward: Malaysia Airlines passengers can offset their carbon emissions soon

25 June 2019

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Malaysia

PETALING JAYA, June 25 — So we’ve all heard about refusing single-use plastics or taking shorter showers to reduce your carbon footprint.

But what about voluntarily paying for the emissions caused by the flight you are on as you tick exciting holiday destinations off your bucket list?

Here’s one for environmentally conscious travellers: Malaysia Airlines passengers will soon be able to pay to offset their flight’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

A representative of the flagship carrier told Malay Mail it was currently exploring ways for customers to take part in a global effort to minimise the airline industry’s CO2 emissions through a carbon offset programme.

“Malaysia Airlines is exploring various initiatives available for its passengers to participate in CO2 emissions offsetting initiatives, internationally or domestically,” a Malaysia Airlines representative said.

Malaysia Airlines said it will work with the relevant “authorities on the regulatory mechanism for carbon offsetting.”

Flying adds a significant amount of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. — Picture by Unsplash

What is carbon offsetting?

Flying releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and carbon offsetting is one of the ways to achieve carbon neutrality.

When buying an offset, that contribution goes to support projects that reduce greenhouse gases and can come in many forms as a way to compensate for CO2 emissions caused by the flight you are on.

Some examples include renewable energy, community development, forestry or any form of sustainable development.

The global airline industry currently produces two per cent of man-made carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

The rising global concern of carbon emissions have prompted the aviation industry to address its environmental impact and was one of the main discussion points at the recent 75th International Air Transport Association (Iata) annual general meeting in Seoul, South Korea.

The AGM was attended by several representatives of Malaysia Airlines — the only Iata member in Malaysia — including its chief executive officer Captain Izham Ismail.

During an environment briefing at the AGM, it was announced that the industry was making headway in achieving its climate goals through encouraging the use of fuel-efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels, operational measures that burn less fuel and navigational improvements such as reducing flight time through better routes and optimising airport layout.

What is Malaysia Airlines doing to reduce its carbon footprint?

On top of carbon offsetting, the national carrier its sister companies under the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) are looking at new aircraft technology, improved operating processes and sustainable alternative fuels.

“Malaysia Airlines has already begun conducting studies to reduce fuel consumption in its operations, for cost effectiveness as well as to protect the environment,” its representative said.

Last year, the airline rolled out an innovative fuel savings solution known as SkyBreathe.

“This system assists the airline in analysing its flight data recorders to assess a flight’s efficiency which allows the airline to implement the appropriate best practices for fuel savings.”

Offset programmes can come in the form of renewable energy, community development or forestry. — Picture by Unsplash

Malaysia among the first countries to volunteer in Corsia

The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (Corsia) aims for the aviation industry to achieve carbon neutrality from 2020 onwards.

It is the first global carbon pricing tool for an industry developed by the United Nations’ International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Corsia is committed to cut CO2 emissions by 50 per cent by 2050 compared with 2005.

“Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB) has been actively engaging with the government of Malaysia to support Corsia even before it was voted by ICAO Council States in 2016.

“As a result of our engagement, Malaysia is amongst the initial countries to volunteer in the Corsia programme before it becomes mandatory in 2027,” Malaysia Airlines said.

The cost to offset a one-way flight from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne on Qantas is calculated at A$9.04 (RM26.14). — Screengrab from Qantas

Airlines that offer passengers carbon offsetting

Qantas, Australia
Emirates, UAE
British Airways, UK
Delta Airlines, US
Virgin Australia
Air New Zealand
Jetstar
United Airlines, US
Air Canada
JetBlue Airways, US
Gulf Air, Bahrain

Others

Linde plans $1.4 bln Singapore expansion, signs Exxon supply deal

25 June 2019

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Singapore

SINGAPORE, June 25 (Reuters) – Industrial gases group Linde said on Tuesday it will spend $1.4 billion to boost its Singapore gasification facilities to support the planned expansion of Exxon Mobil Corp’s nearby integrated refining complex.

The investment will enable Linde’s facility on Jurong Island to supply additional hydrogen and synthesis gas to Exxon’s Singapore refinery, the company said in a statement.

Exxon’s expansion project, which is expected to come online in 2023, would convert fuel oil and other residual crude products into higher-value lube base stocks and distillates to help meet stricter emissions rules.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is introducing new rules on marine fuels from 2020, limiting the sulphur content to 0.5 percent from 3.5 percent, to curb pollution from ships.

Linde’s project will include building and operating four additional gasifiers, a 1,200 metric tonne per day air separation plant and downstream gas processing units and sulphur recovery plants, the company said.

When completed, Linde will also be able to supply hydrogen, carbon monoxide and synthesis gas to other customers on Jurong Island, it said.

Construction is expected to begin in the second half of 2019, with start-up due in 2023.

Linde Plc was created from the merger of Linde AG and rival Praxair. (Reporting by Roslan Khasawneh; editing by Richard Pullin)

Energy Efficiency

PH, 7 other countries form ‘Asian platform’ on energy efficiency collaboration

24 June 2019

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Philippines

The Philippines and seven other countries in the region have formalized “collaboration” for an Asian platform in the promotion of energy efficiency initiatives – including investment hunting as well as shoring up financing tracks for projects.

The countries in the established platform involved energy service companies (ESCOs) from China, Japan, India, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan – and together with the Philippines, they essentially pioneered the setting up of the Asia Pacific ESCO Industry Alliance (APEIA).

“All eight (8) ESCO associations recognize the need to create a regional ESCO industry platform, which will promote ESCO industries, encourage knowledge-sharing of ESCO industry players and boost network for finding potential investors, funding and technology providers,” a statement from the Philippine Energy Efficiency (PE2) Alliance has noted.

As expounded by PE2 President Alexander Ablaza, the newly formed regional ESCO alliance will be paramount in bids to “mobilize a significant share of the US$16.5 trillion in off-balance sheet capital flows to bridge the global US$24.5-trillion energy efficiency capital requirements through 2040.”

He specified that “APEIA shall be a platform for ESCO associations across the Asia Pacific for sharing knowledge and experience, building capacity and ultimately potentially mobilizing energy efficiency projects and financing.”

Of the aggregate ESCO market potential, it was noted that more than 60-percent had been generated from Asian markets, as stated in the 2017 Energy Efficiency Market Report of the International Energy Agency.

The regional ESCO coalition is seen of utmost importance, with Ablaza noting that “the center of gravity of the global ESCO market has shifted to Asia.
”
He further explained that “the ESCO business model is a clearly demonstrated modality to mobilize energy efficiency capital in developing and developed markets and should be further mainstreamed in the more nascent ESCO markets in the Asia Pacific region.”

Through this newly formed bloc, it was emphasized that member-countries would gain leverage on information exchange relative to: energy efficiency potential and adoption in building, manufacturing and service sectors; the best practices when it comes to ESCO-based technologies as well as finance and contracting; and on the climate change agenda propelled by the Paris agreement.

The alliance is also targeting to “build technical capacities in start-up ESCO markets by organizing and conducting training programs,” that will then lead to the certification of energy managers, measurement and verification professionals and other ESCO specialists.

Another overarching aim of the alliance is to “facilitate carbon asset management projects, carbon emission reduction and energy savings offset trading for renewable energy and energy efficiency companies.

Participant-markets will also “facilitate and encourage research and development, test-bedding and pilot-testing of technologies in energy efficiency.”

On the policy side, the alliance will pursue engagements with “relevant government agencies, development agencies, international financial institutions and industry associations to mobilize grant, debt capital, knowledge and other in-kind resources.”

Renewables

Sedania makes green energy venture with Belgian micro-hydro installations

24 June 2019

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Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR (June 24): Technology company Sedania Innovator Bhd has inked an exclusive agreement with Belgian firm, NV Turbulent, to build and deploy micro-hydro installations in Malaysian rivers to generate electricity, marking its official venture into the renewable energy market.

“Micro-hydro turbines use a vortex to enable small rivers or canals with relatively slow water flow to generate electricity of up to 100 kW per turbine to surrounding off-the-grid areas. This means regions which are not connected to the national electricity grid and are currently reliant on diesel generators, will be able to receive clean and local sustainable electricity.

“Suitable locations for the installation of microturbines are mostly rural areas including villages, agricultural, farming and palm plantations throughout Malaysia which are unreached by the national electrical grid,” Sedania said in a statement today.

It said it signed a technology partner and distribution agreement with Turbulent to secure the turbine technology for installations in Malaysia, for which Sedania will also provide “IoT-driven power performance monitoring”.

Sedania said one such micro-hydro installation will typically need a circumference of only 3 metres at the side of a river and a water volume flow of 3 cubic meters per second in order to generate 40kW, which it said is sufficient to power 40-100 homes throughout the day and all year round — subject to the flow of water.

Sedania said the micro hydro has minimal ecological impact and does not require dams or large infrastructure to be built, thus preserving land and habitats of flora and fauna.

Aquatic life is also able to pass through the turbine unharmed, it claimed, adding the installation is silent and does not disrupt or change the flow of a river, so multiple micro hydros can be installed along one river if needed.

“After having maximised our spectrum in energy efficiency solutions for multi-site corporations, entering into renewable energy (RE) is a logical progression. However, as innovators, we wanted a RE segment that is not mainstream, mature and oversupplied, but rather an underutilised, smart and Malaysia-suitable technology. And with Turbulent, we found the perfect match in regards to product and aspirations. The Turbulent product is the most efficient, environmentally friendly, low maintenance, and the best sustainable energy solution,” said Sedania’s chief executive officer Daniel Ruppert.

Albert Ling, Sedania’s head of Greentech — the group’s green technology business unit — said it is introducing the micro-hydro solutions to private corporations and government bodies.

Sedania’s shares in the ACE Market were trading half a sen lower at 16.5 sen at 3.15pm today, giving the group a market capitalisation of RM43.47 million. In the past one year, the stock has retreated near 20%.

Energy Economy

Malaysia actively pursuing energy market reforms to attract investment: Azmin

24 June 2019

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Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is actively pursuing energy market reforms to enhance the country’s attractiveness as the preferred destination for energy investments, said the Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali (pix) today.

The government according to him, continue to strive for energy market reforms even with its status as among the world’s largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) provider, blessed with a strategic position to provide solutions to new markets seeking access to clean and modern energy.

“Malaysia is prepared to not only meet the rise in energy demand, but also navigate through the energy transition, while ensuring a greener and cleaner tomorrow for the future generations.

“Thriving with investment opportunities, the measures that we have introduced will nurture a healthy and conducive ecosystem for business activities,” he said in his special address at the 20th Asia Oil and Gas Conference (AOGC) 2019 today.

He also noted that Malaysia is keen to collaborate and are open for win–win partnerships in new growth areas as it forges a new energy future.

Mohamed Azmin noted that oil and gas as well as petroleum and petrochemical products accounted for 21% of Malaysia’s total exports, amounting to RM211 billion in 2018.

On the impact of US–China trade war on the sector, he said Malaysia continues to experience significant growth in energy demand, particularly power generation.

“Malaysia will benefit from trade and investment diversion as the US–China trade war is expected to heighten market volatility but overall, we see a gloomier trade outlook should the trade war remain unresolved.

“But being in the mainstream of the global economy, Malaysia needs to remain agile and be anticipative of the highly–challenging and fast–changing external environment,” he said.

He explained that as an emerging economy, Malaysia must pioneer new growth sectors to drive investment and capacity building.

“This is also in line with the aspiration to achieve shared prosperity, the inclusive development of the domestic economy is essential to bridge gaps between urban and rural cities,” he said. — Bernama

Energy Cooperation

Dr M: Prosper-thy-neighbour policy promotes concept of shared security

24 June 2019

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Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 — Malaysia must recognise the potential of its neighbours to forge strategic alliances on the back of a Prosper-Thy-Neighbour policy that promotes the concept of shared prosperity, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed said today.

The strategic alliances according to him would lead to a new energy future that was sustainable and secure for generations to come.

“The growing industrialisation of emerging economies such as China, India and South-east Asia will require energy to fuel their growth,” he said during the opening of Asia Oil and Gas Conference 2019 here today.

He said today’s world is confronted with increased concerns over the sustainability of global economic growth in the face of rising financial, political, social and environmental challenges.

“As nations progress towards a robust global economy, we see improvements in life expectancy rates, literacy and livelihoods. These can result in predictable consequences,” he added.

Although reliance on fossil fuels are expected to remain intact, Asia has made great strides in utilising less carbon-intensive fossil fuels such as natural gas, said Dr Mahathir.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global energy consumption in 2018 increased at nearly twice the average rate of growth since 2010.

Dr Mahathir said more countries were pursuing prosperity and a better quality of life.

As a result, energy companies must adjust their strategies and practices to navigate the policies and regulations adopted by countries that are aligned for example, to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals framework and the Paris Agreement on emissions target, he added.

“Having said all these, Asia, however, continues to position itself as a dynamic and vibrant market despite facing common challenges in the rising demand for energy, expanding energy access and meeting climate commitments.

“For Asia to develop, the countries in the region must explore a range of options to improve energy efficiency and affordability by diversifying their energy mix,” he added.

Dr Mahathir said the oil and gas industry was a cyclical business as history has shown that the ability to respond quickly with systematic and coherent strategies is necessary for longevity.

“Indeed, the Middle East is as turbulent as it was back then in spite of, or because of the success of the Western powers and their allies in affecting regime changes in the region and forcing the acceptance of what they defined as democracy, he added.

“Whether we acknowledge it or not, the military expeditions of 2003 used democracy as their cause when it is widely accepted that it was merely a camouflage, a pretext to take control over the production of oil in these nations,” he added.

While the turmoil of 2003 and the subsequent years remain unabated, the world was now facing an unprecedented economic crisis caused by the US-China trade war.

“At this point in time, we will not know how it will fan out but even as it is, numerous casualties have fallen along the way and we can expect more to fall if it persists,” said Dr Mahathir.

In the Gulf, he pointed out the games of provocation create more uncertainties and these have definitely increased the stress on doing business and surely the oil and gas industry is and will be affected. — Bernama

Others

PM calls for Asian O&G industry leaders to form partnerships for new energy solutions

24 June 2019

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Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR (June 24): To withstand the rising challenges facing the oil and gas (O&G) industry, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is calling for Asian industry leaders to enter into strategic dialogues to open up possibilities of new avenues for collaboration that will lead to innovating new energy solutions.

Delivering his keynote address at the 20th Asia Oil & Gas Conference 2019 (AOGC 2019), Dr Mahathir stressed that for Asia to develop within the industry, the countries in the region must explore a range of options to improve energy efficiency and affordability by diversifying their energy mix.

“We must therefore recognise the potential of our neighbours to forge strategic alliances on the back of a Prosper-Thy-Neighbour policy that promotes the concept of shared prosperity. Only then can we forge a new energy future that is sustainable and secure for generations to come,” he said.

In this regard, Dr Mahathir highlighted that national O&G company, Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), has spearheaded an industry-wide study with various agencies to develop an Oil, Gas, Energy and Environment White Paper on Malaysia’s Future Energy Landscape.

“The study supports the country’s aspirations to be a low-carbon economy with a blueprint on energy policies that will stimulate action towards achieving Malaysia’s Paris Agreement pledge. Petronas and its partners should be commended for undertaking this study,” he said.

Petronas president and group chief executive officer Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin, in his welcome address, also agreed with the prime minister’s sentiment.

He said the new energy landscape calls for greater collaborations not only between industry players but also with other industries. Hence, he emphasised that energy companies will need to explore non-traditional partnerships to provide innovative solutions.

“This change in mindset is crucial as the industry is faced with greater consumer demands for sustainable and responsible environmental products.

“Changes in business models brought about the digital transformation and the need to acquire different capabilities and skill sets are also important to forge partnerships beyond the energy space — all towards ensuring the sustainability of our organisations as well as the industry as a whole,” Wan Zulkiflee said.

In its 20th edition, AOGC 2019 bears the theme ‘Forging a New Energy Future’. For the next two days, it will host strategic conversations that address the growing demand for affordable, accessible and efficient energy.

With 1,400 delegates from 34 countries, the conference will also address how the industry should continue to seek opportunities in forging a sustainable energy future for generations to come, Wan Zulkiflee added.

“The convergence of experts from other industries, topics that addresses current and pertinent energy issues and cross-industry sharing of experiences will hopefully bring different perspectives to the dialogues and conversations surrounding the conference,” he said.

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