Energy Sector News

bkp_duke · May 3, 2022

nativewolf said:
For the first time in history, California’s demand was 100% matched by renewable energy generation

On Saturday afternoon, as the sun shined brightly, solar PV and other renewables generated 100% of the state’s needs for about fifteen minutes.

pv-magazine-usa.com

So for a few mins california did it, all renewables

Legitimate question, and I'm asking not to be debbie downer, but legit want to know "the plan":

When CA hits the point where renewable can generate 100% electricity, all the time, even on cloudy/rainy days . . . then what is the plan for the massive excess we will have on those long summer days? Some can be put into batteries, but those will charge up fast (if my powerwalls on a summer day are any indication - they are FULL by 10 AM, at the latest). Does the excess get sold off for cheap to neighboring states? What if those states are over-producing? Temp shut down some renewable facilities to curb the excess?

I know some think-tank somewhere has thought this through, do we have a white-paper from them listing out specifics?

CorneliusXX · May 3, 2022

bkp_duke said:
Legitimate question, and I'm asking not to be debbie downer, but legit want to know "the plan":

When CA hits the point where renewable can generate 100% electricity, all the time, even on cloudy/rainy days . . . then what is the plan for the massive excess we will have on those long summer days? Some can be put into batteries, but those will charge up fast (if my powerwalls on a summer day are any indication - they are FULL by 10 AM, at the latest). Does the excess get sold off for cheap to neighboring states? What if those states are over-producing? Temp shut down some renewable facilities to curb the excess?

I know some think-tank somewhere has thought this through, do we have a white-paper from them listing out specifics?

I don't think there's a clear answer yet, however some options (or a mix of the below) are:

Large battery storage systems for daily supply management
Turn on pumps for pumped hydro
Turn on electrolysis for H2/ammonia creation
Various new yet unproven at scale technologies (heat molten salt storage, liquid metal batteries, etc)
High voltage DC to load shift across continents

navguy12 · May 4, 2022

CorneliusXX said:
I don't think there's a clear answer yet, however some options (or a mix of the below) are:

Large battery storage systems for daily supply management

Turn on pumps for pumped hydro

Turn on electrolysis for H2/ammonia creation

Various new yet unproven at scale technologies (heat molten salt storage, liquid metal batteries, etc)

High voltage DC to load shift across continents

I’d also add that the removal of any fossil fuel use for heating and/or industrial uses will require a huge amount of renewables, above and beyond just electricity needs.

petit_bateau · May 4, 2022

WTI $104.7 / bbl
Brent $107.1 / bbl

EU (strictly European Commission) proposes full ban on Russian oil within 6-months

Hungary objects to proposed EU ban on Russian oil imports

Slovakia also wants exemption despite Ursula von der Leyen saying crude must be prohibited in EU within six months

www.theguardian.com

and

Press corner

Highlights, press releases and speeches

ec.europa.eu

and

EU chief proposes Russian oil ban over war in Ukraine

European Union countries will stop importing Russian oil and refined products, the head of the bloc's executive European Commission said on Wednesday in proposing a sixth round of sanctions against Moscow for waging a war on Ukraine.

www.reuters.com

But not yet agrred by member states
"38m ago13.45
EU representatives have not yet reached an agreement about a proposed embargo against Russian oil, but they are expected to move closer to a deal at a meeting on Thursday, Reuters cites an official familiar with the talks as saying. Envoys from the EU countries had their first discussion about the proposal today, according to the source, who said the meeting ended without a formal backing for the plan. Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Bulgaria raised concerns about the oil embargo, the source said, noting that a deal could be achieved at a new meeting of envoys tomorrow. Meanwhile, Bulgaria’s deputy prime minister, Assen Vassilev, said his country will seek an exemption if the EU agrees to allow exemptions on any embargo on Russian oil. Vassilev said in an interview with financial newspaper Capital:

Bulgaria, technologically, can do without Russian oil crude, but that would push up fuel prices significantly. So, if the European Commission considers exemptions, we would like to take advantage of such exemptions.

Gazelle floater at 2MW stage

Vienna Consulting Engineers to Support Gazelle's 2 MW Floating Wind Demo

Dublin-based Gazelle Wind Power (Gazelle) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vienna Consulting Engineers ZT GmbG (VCE) to support its 2 MW floating wind pilot project in the Canary Islands.

www.offshorewind.biz

US gov interested in blockers for renewables (NB - read this in full - it is interesting)

Supply chains need these reforms, renewable energy firms tell DOE

Renewable energy companies responded to the DOE's request for information on the state of the clean energy supply chain.

www.renewableenergyworld.com

So the US solar people wail about wind switching

Xcel Execs: Solar Supply Woes Could Push Investments into Wind

CEO Bob Frenzel says the current issue highlights the need for production tax credits to be part of a BBB bill.

www.tdworld.com

US-China tense but stable

U.S. relieved as China appears to heed warnings on Russia

Two months after warning that Beijing appeared poised to help Russia in its fight against Ukraine, senior U.S. officials say they have not detected overt Chinese military and economic support, a welcome development in the tense U.S.-China relationship.

www.reuters.com

South Korea may replace China for UK nukes

South Korea in talks to build a new generation of nuclear power stations in UK -The Telegraph

- South Korea is in talks

www.euronews.com

nativewolf · May 4, 2022

bkp_duke said:
Legitimate question, and I'm asking not to be debbie downer, but legit want to know "the plan":

When CA hits the point where renewable can generate 100% electricity, all the time, even on cloudy/rainy days . . . then what is the plan for the massive excess we will have on those long summer days? Some can be put into batteries, but those will charge up fast (if my powerwalls on a summer day are any indication - they are FULL by 10 AM, at the latest). Does the excess get sold off for cheap to neighboring states? What if those states are over-producing? Temp shut down some renewable facilities to curb the excess?

I know some think-tank somewhere has thought this through, do we have a white-paper from them listing out specifics?

I think excess solar is one of the most fascinating ideas in the world. Almost predictable. Scalable across much of the USA and southern Europe. One only needs to look at all the industries that are energy limited. Smelting, carbon capture, etc. If you do a first order principle look at things it becomes clearer and is frankly simple. I've thought of writing and publishing an essay on this. Tony Seba and his group have thought on it as well.

The thing is that it is far cheaper to overbuild solar, so that renewable production at 5pm meets demand, than to buy batteries. This should result in massive overproduction of energy and we end up in exactly the scenario you described.

Former Tesla engineer to establish battery materials manufacturing in Moses Lake, Washington

Sila plans to deliver silicon-based anode to power up to 500,000 electric vehicles—and more--per year.

pv-magazine-usa.com

Is a perfect example. Moses Lake is a large hydro dam that provides just about the cheapest energy in the USA. Look at the types of facilities locating there, companies involved in Silicon processes. Manipulating Silicone is energy intensive and is such a cost driver that they will locate plants in..pardon my language...Bum F nowhere.

Another will be renewable powered steel smelting like those facilities being built by NUCOR. NUCOR is an animal in the USA steel business.

Fundamentally all these facilities are engaged in exactly the same basic process and they all require energy and lots of it.

petit_bateau · May 5, 2022

Brent $110/bbl
WTI $108/bbl

Europe import stop on Russian oil may be awkward, explainers

Explainer: Why the EU may find it tough to squeeze out Russian oil

The European Union has proposed a phased embargo of Russian oil but could find it tricky to implement, given Europe's complex distribution network and challenges in tracking crude once it is blended or refined.

www.reuters.com

or

What does the EU's Russian oil ban mean for Europe?

EU countries are fiercely debating a proposal to ban Russian oil imports by the end of the year – with huge uncertainty over its impact.

www.energymonitor.ai

and

Windfall taxes and an ‘anti-Putin shield’: how Europe is tackling energy crisis

Analysis: As UK resists calls for a one-off tax on oil and gas operators, other nations have acted swiftly

www.theguardian.com

Europe refilling gas storage abnormally fast, JohnKempReuters chartbook

https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/mopanoonzva/EUROPEAN%20GAS%20INVENTORIES%20(MAY%202022).pdf

India can't move coal

All India Power Engineers Federation questions fresh instructions on coal import

All India Power Engineers Federation chairman Shailendra Dubey said that till adequate arrangements were made to transport domestic coal to the power stations, it should be clarified as to how imported coal would reach the thermal power stations from the ports

www.hindustantimes.com

Russians seem to be burning down army recruitment centres amongst other things

https://twitter.com/x/status/1521907046882455554

Wind to coral is a thing

Ørsted Trials Turning Jackets into Coral Reefs - Video

Ørsted is planning a world-first attempt to support coral reefs by growing corals on offshore wind turbine foundations.

www.offshorewind.biz

Military need fossils

Why prioritising military might over net zero makes no sense

Net zero makes sense from a defence point of view, but the military has historically blocked climate action over operational concerns.

www.energymonitor.ai

Stop the offset bullsh1t

Climate impact beyond carbon offsets – Energy Monitor

To show corporate leadership, cheap carbon offsets and climate neutrality claims won’t do, say campaigners.

www.energymonitor.ai

Miners all talk

Mining sector commits to ESG, but more action is needed - Energy Monitor

Mining companies are aiming high with their net-zero goals and ESG policies. However, their actual emissions reduction record is mixed.

www.energymonitor.ai

Responsible mining : oxymoron ?

Responsible mining for the energy transition – Energy Monitor

Miners are heavily scrutinised over the efficacy of their ESG policies, posing the question: can the industry commit to responsible mining?

www.energymonitor.ai

nativewolf · May 5, 2022

U.S. Shale’s Cash Bonanza Is About to Wipe Out $300 Billion Loss

www.bloomberg.com

Paywalled, apologies. Anyway this year the shale industry should wipe out most of the losses it accumulated from 2010 to 2021. Just incredible opportunity before the industry to lock in supply agreements that would box Russia out for years by which time EVs should be impacting demand.

petit_bateau · May 6, 2022

WTI $107.7/bbl
Brent $110.4/bbl

EU tweaking Russian oil plan

EU tweaks Russia oil sanctions plan in bid to win over reluctant states

The European Commission proposed changes to its planned embargo on Russian oil to give Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic more time to shift their energy supplies, EU sources said, although failed to reach a breakthrough on Friday.

www.reuters.com

and gas

EU energy ministers address gas supply cuts in Europe

The meeting of the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council was organised in the wake of cuts by Gazprom to Bulgaria and Poland,

www.enlit.world

India has left itself no choice, coal

'Bad boys' are back: India doubles down on coal as heatwave worsens power crisis

India is planning to reopen more than 100 coal mines previously considered financially unsustainable, as a heatwave-driven power crisis forces the world's third-biggest greenhouse gas emitter to double down on the fuel after months of low consumption.

www.reuters.com

REviewing the EU elec price review in ever narrowing circles (YMMV)

Clear as mud

Why exactly is the EU so reticent about redesigning its failed energy markets?

www.energyflux.news

US middle distillates under pressure, JohnKempReuters chartbook

https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/lbpgnydrevq/US%20DISTILLATE%20INVENTORIES%20(MAY%202022).pdf

US SPR buyback plan signalled

DOE Announces Long-Term Buyback Plan Ensuring Continued Availability of Strategic Petroleum Reserve

DOE to Initiate Transparent, Competitive Process to Replenish U.S. Emergency Crude Oil Distributed to Alleviate Global Supply Disruptions Caused by Putin’s War

www.energy.gov

US oil capex up, market forces work, shock horror

U.S. oil producers increased capital expenditures and cash from operations in late 2021 - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)

www.eia.gov

UK contemplates neutering market forces, Con shock horror

‘Don’t tax energy giants – they invest in Britain’s future.’ Let’s drill down into that | Tessa Khan

North Sea developments aren’t about lowering bills or securing energy supplies – they’re just business as usual, says Tessa Khan, director of Uplift UK

www.theguardian.com

Olsens go interestingly modular for floaters, pay attention

Fred. Olsen 1848 Launches Modular Floating Foundation

Norway-based Fred. Olsen 1848 has launched a new floating offshore wind turbine foundation named BRUNEL after several years of development.

www.offshorewind.biz

GOM offshore wind acoming pdq

Louisiana Could Build First Gulf of Mexico Offshore Wind Farm by 2026

As the US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is working towards the first offshore wind auction for the Gulf of Mexico early next year, current legislative developments in Louisiana could lead to the state being the first to build an offshore wind farm in the Gulf, as well as to expanding...

www.offshorewind.biz

Those hydrogen nodes offshore again

Norwegians Developing Offshore Substation-Hydrogen Factory Combo

Norwegian companies, Arendals Fossekompani, Kongsberg, and Moreld, have joined forces on the Hydepoint project to develop a combined offshore substation and hydrogen factory.

www.offshorewind.biz

Flexible foundation/tower vessels

Cadeler In Advanced Talks to Order Hybrid Foundation Installation Vessel

Denmark-based Cadeler has revealed that the company is in advanced talks with COSCO Shipyard regarding a possible order to build a new “hybrid” offshore wind farm foundation installation vessel. The potential foundation installation vessel could be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2025, with...

www.offshorewind.biz

No bitcoin mining here, NY

Bitcoin mining ban in New York

New York State assembly has passed a bill with a moratorium on new proof-of-work crypto mining operations, unless 100% renewables powered.

www.smart-energy.com

Somehow the idea of a dominant design emerging in DER software seems unlikely to me

Software integration key to future-proof grids - Siemens' Sabine Erlinghagen | Smart Energy International

Yusuf Latief spoke to Sabine Erlinghagen on distributed energy resources (DERs), grid management and software as the answer.

www.smart-energy.com

Malaysia will go solar, someday far away

Malaysia pioneers large-scale solar project

Sepang solar plant is a 50MW large-scale solar plant owned and operated by TNB Renewables Sdn. Bhd. (TRe), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Berhad, Malaysia’s national electricity utility company.

www.smart-energy.com

Rich people flying soars

BA owner says recovery of business travel will drive return to profit

More trips by wealthy passengers as Covid controls eased also improved demand for IAG in first quarter

www.theguardian.com

Lukashenko's Belarus stinks

Belarus plane arrest activist Sofia Sapega sentenced to six years

Russian citizen held along with boyfriend a year ago when flight she was on was forced to land

www.theguardian.com

nativewolf · May 8, 2022

Saudi is finally cutting oil premiums to China, unofficially this started last week but was announced yesterday I guess. $5/bbl.

I could see a sharp oil pullback this week due to China covid.

petit_bateau · May 9, 2022

WTI $109.8/bbl
Brent $112.4/bbl

Funnily enough Hungary still wants Russian nuclear

Hungary and Rosatom push ahead on Paks II nuclear project : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Hungary says that Russia’s Rosatom has given reassurances that "in terms of technology they are able to complete the project", with Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó looking forward to the construction entering its next phase.

www.world-nuclear-news.org

India gets chummy with French nuclear

France and India aim to progress EPR project in coming months : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

The French company EDF last year submitted to Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd its binding techno-commercial offer to build six EPRs at Jaitapur in Maharashtra state and the project was among the bilateral issues backed during talks between President Emmanuel Macron and President Narendra...

www.world-nuclear-news.org

South Korea will do (even more) nuclear

South Korea to 'reasonably utilise' nuclear energy : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Incoming President Yoon Suk-yeol made nuclear power one of his campaign pledges and, the Yonhap News Agency reports, Industry Minister nominee Lee Chang-yang told his confirmation hearing nuclear power was a way to boost energy security and hit its carbon-zero goals.

www.world-nuclear-news.org

340MW is a small nuke

Tractebel to conduct Nuward SMR conceptual design studies : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Tractebel is to contribute to the development of France's Nuward small modular reactor project. The Belgian engineering firm will conduct studies for the completion of the conceptual design of "the first SMR in the European Union".

www.world-nuclear-news.org

Indian coal iffy

Coal shortage and heatwave spark India's power woes

Analysts are worried about India's climate change pledge as it increases coal production to meet a rise in demand.

www.bbc.com

Japan to ban Russian oil

Japan to take time phasing out Russian oil imports, says PM Kishida

Japan will take time to phase out Russian oil imports after agreeing on a ban with other Group of Seven (G7) nations to counter Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Monday.

www.reuters.com

US SPR release was solo venture

Exclusive: Biden sidelined global energy partners with record emergency oil release

The United States announced a record-sized release of emergency crude oil reserves in March without consulting partners in the International Energy Agency, leaving them scrambling to match with releases of their own, according to two sources familiar with the matter.

www.reuters.com

California dreamin

California says it needs more power to keep the lights on

California energy officials on Friday issued a sober forecast for the state's electrical grid, saying it lacks sufficient capacity to keep the lights on this summer and beyond if heatwaves, wildfires or other extreme events take their toll.

www.reuters.com

Rolling US towers

Construction to Start on First US Offshore Wind Tower Manufacturing Plant

US-based CDMG Metal Buildings has been awarded a USD 42.7 million contract by the Port of Albany to supply four metal buildings for the nation's first offshore wind tower manufacturing plant.

www.offshorewind.biz

Covid = 15m excess deaths (I think that is similar to Spanish flu, mind you the world had a far lower population then)

14.9 million excess deaths associated with the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021

New estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that the full death toll associated directly or indirectly with the COVID-19 pandemic (described as “excess mortality”) between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2021 was approximately 14.9 million (range 13.3 million to 16.6 million)...

www.who.int

petit_bateau · May 10, 2022

WTI $102
Brent $105

Russia wants nuclear payback from Finland

Rosatom seeks compensation for cancelled Finland project : Nuclear Policies - World Nuclear News

Rosatom’s unit in Finland says it has "no other choice but to defend ourselves and demand compensation" for the "unlawful termination" of the Hanhikivi I project, adding that it is ready to discuss "possible options for the project to recommence when conditions permit".

www.world-nuclear-news.org

EU wants Russia oil & gas blockade deal, HUngary not co-operating quelle surprise

Hopes for EU ban on Russian oil despite Hungary comparing plan to ‘nuclear bomb’

French minister says deal could come this week as Macron and Orbán try to break deadlock

www.theguardian.com

1.5C going going going .......

Climate limit of 1.5C close to being broken, scientists warn

The probability of one of the next five years surpassing the limit is now 50%, up from 20% in 2020

www.theguardian.com

Aviation sector missing every target

Just one of 50 aviation industry climate targets met, study finds

Charity’s report says nearly all targets set since 2000 have been missed, revised or quietly ignored

www.theguardian.com

Battery trains

First battery powered trains for Denmark

Siemens Mobility is to provide seven Mireo Plus B trains to Danish rail operator Midtjyske Jernbaner to go into operation in late 2024.

www.enlit.world

Germany - Quatar - LNG haggling

EXCLUSIVE Germany, Qatar at odds over terms in talks on LNG supply deal -sources

Germany and Qatar have hit difficulties in talks over long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply deals amid differences over key conditions, including the duration of any contract, three people familiar with the discussions told Reuters.

www.reuters.com

China builds its own

China's First 2,000-tonne Wind Farm Installation Vessel Nears Completion

China's first 2,000-tonne offshore wind farm installation vessel, named Baihetan, was launched in April in Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong Province.

www.offshorewind.biz

Green hydrogen bug infects China also

China readies for post-2025 green hydrogen boom

China's new green hydrogen plan treads carefully - a renewables rollout remains the priority - but experts expect a boom after 2025.

www.energymonitor.ai

Venezuela, don't hold your breath is my advice

How big could Venezuela’s oil market be?

That Venezuela's oil reserves are vast is no secret, but just how big a role could it potentially play in the global supply network?

www.energymonitor.ai

Nordstream2 tidying up

What will happen now to Nord Stream 2 and its investors?

Russia’s war on Ukraine killed Nord Stream 2, leaving Europe grappling with issues around security of energy supply and alternative sources.

www.energymonitor.ai

Fringe benefits

EU's Russian gas to LNG switch could help climate as well as security

Russian gas is significantly more climate intensive than US or Qatari LNG, finds a recent study from think tank RMI.

www.energymonitor.ai

Carbon markets ...... money money money

The birth of the carbon removal market

Could a pioneering investment initiative from an alliance of Silicon Valley stalwarts catalyse the levels of carbon removal needed for 1.5C?

www.energymonitor.ai

Don't expect UK-EU relations to play nicely

Liz Truss ‘preparing to scrap parts of Northern Ireland protocol’

Foreign secretary reported to have asked officials to prepare draft that would put UK in breach of its treaty obligations

www.theguardian.com

petit_bateau · May 11, 2022

WTI $104/bbl
Brent $106/bbl

Ukraine gas company declares force majeure on one transport route (the southern one) Gazprom says can't divert to northern one. As far as I can tell the Sokhranivka route goes through a metering station at the southern node, whilst the northern route crosses near Kursk.

various reports

Ukraine to halt key Russian gas transit to Europe, blames Moscow

Ukraine said on Tuesday it would suspend the flow of gas through a transit point which it said delivers almost a third of the fuel piped from Russia to Europe through Ukraine, blaming Moscow for the move and saying it would move the flows elsewhere.

www.reuters.com

Ukraine gas transit pipeline to cut flows amid force majeure | Montel News - English

www.montelnews.com

Ukraine gas system operator declares force majeure on Sokhranivka entry point

LONDON — Ukraine’s gas system operator GTSOU said on Tuesday it would declare force majeure on the transportation of gas through the Sokhranivka entry point,…

financialpost.com

Likely Russia will refuse to switch volumes to Kursk route (due to the "technical reasons") and hence start to reduce volumes to EU destinations. So the German plans may get used

Exclusive: Germany prepares crisis plan for abrupt end to Russian gas

German officials are quietly preparing for any sudden halt in Russian gas supplies with an emergency package that could include taking control of critical firms, three people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

www.reuters.com

Finland parliament greenlights NATO

Finnish Parliament's defence committee recommends NATO membership

HELSINKI - Joining NATO is the

www.euronews.com

meanwhile US probes the solar probe

Biden officials are pressed on solar tariff probe's impact

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo were grilled by lawmakers over the solar tariff investigation.

www.renewableenergyworld.com

and California things 20GW by 2050 is quite a lot

California proposes strong offshore wind goals

California could feasibly develop as much as 3 GW of offshore wind by 2030 and 20 GW by 2050, according to the state's energy planning agency.

www.renewableenergyworld.com

and Indian rail struggling on coal

Indian Railways missed Coal India train provision targets for over a year- data shows

Indian Railways supply of trains to Coal India for transporting coal has fallen short of its monthly targets for more than a year, government data showed, highlighting the problems behind India's worst power crisis in over six years.

www.reuters.com

oh, and Musk gave quite a substantial interview

Elon Musk talks in a May interview with the FT about Twitter, Tesla and Trump

Tesla CEO tells Peter Campbell at May's Future of the Car conference why he would reverse the ban on Donald Trump if he buys Twitter, and what lies beyond his ambition to make Tesla the world’s biggest automaker by 2030. Visit ft.com/carsummit

www.ft.com

and miners seek love

Mining is key to the energy transition, but it's still unloved

Mining is probably the most vital sector to the global energy transition and the success of the much-vaunted net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 targets, but it's currently the laggard in the process.

www.reuters.com

but Coldplay useful idiots

Coldplay labelled ‘useful idiots for greenwashing’ after deal with oil company

The Transport and Environment campaign group says Neste is cynically using the band

www.theguardian.com

petit_bateau · May 12, 2022

WTI $104.4/bbl
Brent $106.1/bbl

Lots of mild recession warnings out around the world, always difficult to distinguish between slowdown and technical recessions - but this is what demand destruction looks like

UK economy shrinks in March as recession risks mount

Britain's economy unexpectedly shrank in March, marking a weak end to the first quarter of a year when the risk of recession is looming and increasing pressure on the government to offer more support to inflation-hit households.

www.reuters.com

Inflation increases risk of recession in global economy

US adds 428,000 jobs in April, BoE warns of UK recession, stock market turmoil continues

www.ft.com

Europe Might Be Entering a Recession. Why the U.S. Wonât Be Next.

The prospects for the second half of the year are better for the U.S. than for Europe, economists say.

www.barrons.com

'We see a big recession in the making': Top CEOs are fearing the worst in Europe

The CEOs of several European blue chip companies have told CNBC that they see a significant recession coming down the pike in Europe.

www.cnbc.com

Closer look at looming recession: Consumers and jobs market may not be as healthy as you think

Recession is likely as consumers' ability to keep spending and hopping jobs will come to an end sooner than you think, some analysts warn.

eu.usatoday.com

Surprise, far right media types are climate change deniers

GB News chairman has history of dismissing threat of climate crisis

Revelation Alan McCormick has tweeted articles denying climate science fuels fears of GB News’s role as climate sceptic platform

www.theguardian.com

Surprise, fossil companies aim to carry on doing same old

Revealed: the ‘carbon bombs’ set to trigger catastrophic climate breakdown

Exclusive: Oil and gas majors are planning scores of vast projects that threaten to shatter the 1.5C climate goal. If governments do not act, these firms will continue to cash in as the world burns

www.theguardian.com

Yesterday I commented that California thinks that 20GW by 2050 is trying hard

California Sets 2030 Offshore Wind Target, Eyes 20 GW by 2050

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has set a preliminary planning goal of 3 GW of (floating) offshore wind to be installed off the state's coast by 2030, with an aim to have up to 15 GW installed by 2045 and potentially 20 GW five years later.

www.offshorewind.biz

In contrast Norways aims for 30GW by 2040

Norway Launches 30 GW by 2040 Offshore Wind Investment Plan

The Government of Norway has launched a large-scale investment plan aimed at allocating sea areas to develop 30 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2040.

www.offshorewind.biz

But California batteries are on track

SCE Expects ~60% of Battery Project to be Online by August Target

CEO Steve Powell tells analysts there’s still “a lot of caution” about California handling this summer’s heat.

www.tdworld.com

Wind offshore Iberia

Shell Sets Sights on Offshore Wind in Spain and Portugal

Shell and the Spanish energy company Capital Energy have signed an agreement to analyze the joint development of projects in the offshore wind energy sector in Spain and Portugal.

www.offshorewind.biz

Nearshore goes offshore

Onshore Wind Farm to Be Built Using Offshore Techniques

Dutch energy company Eneco has started the construction of the Maasvlakte 2 onshore wind farm in the Rotterdam harbour area, with a portion of turbine components to be installed using offshore installation techniques.

www.offshorewind.biz

1GW chunks all the rage

Denmark's Largest Offshore Wind Farm Receives Feasibility Study Permit

The Danish Energy Agency (DEA) has issued a feasibility study permit to Thor Wind Farm I/S for the 1,000 MW Thor project, Denmark’s largest offshore wind farm to date.

www.offshorewind.biz

Refined inventory patchy supply all over the place, one example

East Coast jet fuel prices remain higher than other spot price hubs - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)

www.eia.gov

Coal finds new disguise

A 'just energy transition' is code for keeping coal

In South Africa's Johannesburg there is a scourge known as the Parktown Prawn, which is a actually a giant cricket.

www.reuters.com

Idaho battery is go

Idaho Power Announces Plans for State’s First Large-scale Battery Storage Projects

The company has filed a request with the Idaho Public Utilities Commission to affirm that the proposal is in the public interest.

www.tdworld.com

Many paths for battery deployment

Capacity, Flexibility and Resilience with BESS

Battery energy storage system capacity is anticipated to increase tenfold by 2023, providing much-needed flexibility and resilience to the U.S. electricity grid.

www.tdworld.com

Actual hydrogen use - funnily enough the combustion pathway

First Hydrogen-Powered Crew Transfer Vessel Ready for Operation

CMB.TECH, together with the Netherlands-based Windcat Workboats, has unveiled what the company describes as the world's first hydrogen-powered crew transfer vessel (CTV).

www.offshorewind.biz

petit_bateau · May 13, 2022

WTI $110
Brent $111

Another day, another Japanese floater

BW Ideol and Tohoku Plan New Floating Wind Project Offshore Japan

BW Ideol and Tohoku Electric Power have signed an agreement to jointly develop a commercial-scale floating wind farm off the coast of Kuji city in Iwate prefecture, Japan.

www.offshorewind.biz

.... and Korea, fixed I think these

Vena, KOMIPO to Develop 384 MW Offshore Wind Farm in South Korea

Vena Energy and Korea Midland Power Co. Ltd. (KOMIPO) have partnered on the development of a 384 MW offshore wind project near Yokji Island in South Korea.

www.offshorewind.biz

Italy offshore almost running

Beleolico Offshore Wind Farm Ready for Italian Grid

The Beleolico offshore wind farm in Italy is now ready to connect to the national electricity grid after all commissioning operations have been completed.

www.offshorewind.biz

South Africa making steadyish progress

A windy success for a small South African community | Smart Energy International

The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) has acknowledged that South Africa continues to be the number one wind power market in Africa with 2.5GW of cumulative wind power capacity installed in the country.

www.smart-energy.com

The 15MW units are getting closer

World's Largest Wind Turbines to Spin Offshore Denmark

European Energy and Vestas have revealed their joint ambition to install Vestas' flagship V236-15 MW offshore wind turbines off the city of Frederikshavn in Denmark.

www.offshorewind.biz

Siemens now out of Russia (and their share prices may attract bottom fishers with risk appetite)

Siemens exits Russia as a result of Ukraine war | Enlit World

After 170 years of business in Russia, Siemens will has started to completely wind down its operations and business in the country.

www.enlit.world

Carbon Direct Air Capture seminar (if you qualify, MIT alum only, but they do give waivers sometimes)

Affordable Direct Air Capture: Myth or Reality?

The MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change and MIT Laboratory for Aviation and the Environment invite you to join us at the seminar “Affordable Direct Air Capture: Myth or Reality?" The seminar will be held in person (MIT Room 35-225) and online (via Zoom) on Thursday, May...

calendar.mit.edu

Interesting metal recovery options

Team creates map for production of eco-friendly metals

MIT and SLAC researchers have mapped what is happening at the atomic level behind a particularly promising approach called metal electrolysis. The work could usher in more efficient, eco-friendly processes for the production of metals like lithium and iron.

news.mit.edu

Fusion ...........

MIT expands research collaboration with Commonwealth Fusion Systems to build net energy fusion machine, SPARC

MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC) will substantially expand its fusion energy research and education activities under a new five-year agreement with Institute spinout Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS). This new agreement doubles CFS’ financial commitment to PSFC, enabling greater...

news.mit.edu

Battery strategy waffle (EDIT, not just waffle, some nuggets in here)

Are Aggressive Energy Storage Policies a Sound Strategy?

Is battery energy storage the best solution for goals such as reliability, flexibility, and emissions reductions or one tool of many in our technology march?

www.tdworld.com

petit_bateau · May 16, 2022

WTI $108.4/bbl
Brent $109.2/bbl

Hungary blocking EU, still

Hungary ‘holding EU hostage’ over sanctions on Russian oil

EU unable to agree on sixth package of sanctions as Budapest continues to block proposed oil embargo

www.theguardian.com

EU flavours

REPowerEU: How the EU intends to get off Russian gas

The European Commission is poised to unveil legislative proposals to underpin March’s REPowerEU plan to get off Russian gas.

www.energymonitor.ai

and

How can the EU end its dependence on Russian gas? – Energy Monitor

The European Commission, IEA and several think tanks have all published scenarios on weaning the EU off Russian gas. What’s the bottom line?

www.energymonitor.ai

EU filling up

Europe in high-cost race to replenish gas stocks

Europe has begun refilling depleted gas stores to shore up supply for the winter and guard against possible disruptions in flows from Russia, but a sky-high market means the move could cost some 40 billion euros more than at last year's prices.

www.reuters.com

EU economies hit by high energy costs

https://twitter.com/x/status/1526125302425976833

UK vehicle fuels

https://twitter.com/x/status/1526122098397220867

This energy island thing

Energy islands: Pie in the sky or key to net zero? - Energy Monitor

Artificial islands linked to vast wind arrays, battery storage and electrolysers hold a lot of promise for the energy transition.

www.energymonitor.ai

Meaningless puffery from the Boris one

Johnson’s ‘jet zero’ plan unrealistic and may make UK miss CO2 targets – report

Ministers instead urged to focus on reducing flights and halting airport expansion to cut carbon emissions

www.theguardian.com

South Africa brownouts and blackouts

South Africa's Eskom increases length of daily power cut for start of week

South Africa's state power utility Eskom said on Sunday that it would increase the hours of daily power cut for Monday and Tuesday because it lost more generation capacity over the weekend.

www.reuters.com

Texas bakes

Texas grid operator calls for power conservation as temperatures, prices soar

The state of Texas' power-grid operator on Friday called on residents to cut their electricity use this weekend after six generating plants fell offline in a heat wave.

www.reuters.com

China digs in

China's April coal output leaps 11% on year, but demand downturn looms

China's daily coal output in April jumped 11% from the same month a year earlier, boosted by Beijing's order to increase supply to ensure security of the country's energy supply, but the volume dropped from a record high set in March.

www.reuters.com

US turnover

Troops sent to bolster NATO begin turnover as US mulls larger footprint in Europe

“The deployments are one-for-one unit replacements, which will leave our overall force posture in the region — approximately 100,000 — unchanged,” the Pentagon's spokesman said.

www.militarytimes.com

and Finland and Sweden both confirm for NATO

Finland and Sweden announce they want to join NATO, marking a big blow to Putin

Finland changed its policy toward the military alliance after troops invaded Ukraine. Sweden has avoided all military alliances, but like Finland, has also grown closer and closer to NATO over time.

www.npr.org

petit_bateau · May 17, 2022

WTI $115
Brent $115

[*** missing item, Hungary still blocking EU oil embargo ***]

Ukraine wants western nukes in western Ukraine

Ukraine planning for post-war nuclear power plants : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Energoatom's CEO Petro Kotin says that construction work on two new Westinghouse AP1000 units at the Khmelnitsky nuclear power plant "will begin as soon as the war is over".

www.world-nuclear-news.org

I think everybody is going to die of boredom waiting for SMRs to do the paperchase

TVA eyes late 2023 or early 2024 for SMR licence application : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Tennessee Valley Authority CEO Jeff Lyash said this would be the next milestone for project to build a BWRX-300 small modular reactor at Clinch River near Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

www.world-nuclear-news.org

+

Final environmental impact statement for US Versatile Test Reactor : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Idaho National Laboratory has been identified as the preferred site for the construction and operation of the sodium-cooled fast neutron reactor in the Final Environmental Impact Statement released by the US Department of Energy.

www.world-nuclear-news.org

Hope for South Africa

End of Koeberg outage to ease South African grid pressure : Energy & Environment - World Nuclear News

The return to service next month of unit 2 at the Koeberg nuclear power plant will help to reduce pressure on South Africa's constrained power system, state-owned utility Eskom says. The return to service of the unit, which has been offline for refuelling and maintenance, will support utility...

www.world-nuclear-news.org

nukes in orbit by 2026

US cislunar nuclear rocket project proceeds to next stage : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is seeking proposals for Phases 2 and 3 of its Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations programme, which aims to demonstrate a nuclear thermal propulsion system in orbit in fiscal year 2026.

www.world-nuclear-news.org

Chinese have a different way of doing (coal) pricing

China's thermal coal futures mute as Beijing reins in commodity inflation

Trade in China's thermal coal futures has almost come to a halt, after Beijing stepped up its control of coal prices to rein in the soaring costs of energy and raw materials.

www.reuters.com

Iraq worried about Chinese

Insight: Iraq balks at greater Chinese control of its oilfields

It thwarted three prospective deals last year that would have handed Chinese firms more control over its oilfields and led to an exodus of oil majors that Baghdad wants to invest in its creaking economy.

www.reuters.com

UK in smallbeer nuke fund

UK launches funding to encourage nuclear new build : Nuclear Policies - World Nuclear News

The UK government has announced the launch of GBP120 million (USD146 million) in funding to support development of new nuclear energy projects, stimulate competition in the industry and unlock investment across the UK. The Future Nuclear Enabling Fund will help to realise the government's...

www.world-nuclear-news.org

Australian elections, hot downunder

Climate a top concern in Australian election - Energy Monitor

More than half of Australian voters surveyed say climate change is a top concern.

www.energymonitor.ai

Prosumers have the answer ?

Prosumers: Market design matters in the REPowerEU push to electrify

The European Commission’s REPowerEU proposals must unlock demand-side flexibility by engaging and incentivising ‘prosumers’.

www.energymonitor.ai

UK bigs up talk in floaters

Floating offshore wind prepares to go commercial - Energy Monitor

The recent ScotWind offshore wind leasing round heralds a step change for floating offshore wind as a vital renewable technology.

www.energymonitor.ai

MIT report on storage (I've not read it yet, so no opinion)

The Future of Energy Storage

MITEI’s three-year Future of Energy Storage study explored the role that energy storage can play in fighting climate change and in the global adoption of clean energy grids. Replacing fossil fuel-based power generation with power generation from wind and solar resources is a key strategy for...

energy.mit.edu

Libya still all effed up

Clashes in Tripoli as would-be prime minister attempts to claim power

Fathi Bashagha forced to withdraw in the face of opposition from Libya’s military

www.theguardian.com

petit_bateau · May 18, 2022

WTI $114.3
Brent $113.4

NATO applications submitted

Turkey blocks early vote on Sweden and Finland joining Nato

Move comes hours after the Nordic nations officially launched their bids to join the alliance

www.theguardian.com

ENI (Italy) to pay Russia in roubles

ENI defies Brussels by opening rouble account for Russian gas payments

EU reiterates move would breach bloc’s sanctions against MoscowRead more on 'Financial Times Companies'

markets.businessinsider.com

Yellen chips in on EU-Russia sanctions (rumours are for an agreement today, heard that before though)

EU could combine tariffs on Russian oil with embargo, Yellen says

The European Union could combine import tariffs on Russian oil with the phased oil embargo it is trying to put in place to shrink Russia's energy revenues, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Tuesday.

www.reuters.com

That sucking sound is gas flowing to Europe

https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/byprjdjxkpe/EURASIA%20GAS%20PRICES.pdf

Orban proves he is far right (which is obviously having energy consequences in EU)

Orbán and US right to bond at Cpac in Hungary over ‘great replacement’ ideology

American far right has long embraced Hungary’s prime minister, who speaks of Europe’s ‘suicidal’ immigration policies

www.theguardian.com

UK upsetting EU over NI (again, energy consequences may flow)

UK threat over NI Brexit deal ‘breeding mistrust in EU capitals’

Anger and disbelief within EU at UK’s position given goodwill Boris Johnson has built up over Ukraine

www.theguardian.com

Steadying the grid

Grid Control Steadies Renewables in Storms

Combining software-based grid controls with battery storage makes renewable resources on the islands of Guam and Jeju more reliable, even in bad weather.

www.tdworld.com

Perovskites for hydrogen

NREL Scientists Advance Renewable Hydrogen Production Method

According to an NREL analysis, perovskite materials may hold the potential to play an important role in a process to produce hydrogen in a renewable manner.

www.tdworld.com

Patents for hydrogen

Patent activity in electrolysis technology: Innovation driving cost reduction for green hydrogen | Smart Energy International

New joint report from the IRENA and the EPO unveils the innovation trends in electrolysis technology to reduce renewables production

www.smart-energy.com

Verly long cables

Subsea cables to deliver renewable energy from Morocco to the UK | Smart Energy International

Octopus Energy Group is partnering with Xlinks, which is building a subsea power cable to deliver renewable energy from Morocco to the UK.

www.smart-energy.com

This one is too long for a cable

Microgrid developed to power lunar base

A microgrid to power a future base on the moon is under development at Sandia National Laboratories in the US.

www.smart-energy.com

Zinc Alkaline storage

Solar developer pursues battery energy storage alternatives to lithium-ion

Pine Gate Renewables is taking steps to diversify its battery supply for solar-paired and standalone energy storage projects.

www.renewableenergyworld.com

I wonder why this might be

Q CELLS to double solar manufacturing capacity in the U.S.

Q CELLS parent Hanwha plans to invest $170 million to expand its manufacturing facility in Dalton, Georgia.

www.renewableenergyworld.com

Grids, grids, grids

Texas heat wave points to problems with congestion on power grid

A weekend call for Texans to restrict air conditioning and appliance use after six power facilities tripped offline highlights a weakness in the state's grid: congestion on its transmission lines.

www.reuters.com

Lagacy auto is er lagging

Big carmakers stuck in slow lane over switch to zero emissions, study shows

Only Tesla and Mercedes are due to meet climate goals with Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai and General Motors lagging

www.theguardian.com

petit_bateau · May 19, 2022

WTI $107.7
Brent $107.9

Schroder not wanted

Schröder to be stripped of ex-chancellor privileges over Russian stance

Former leader a pariah in Germany after refusing to condemn Putin over Ukraine

www.irishtimes.com

or

German ex-Chancellor Schröder loses part of state privileges – DW – 05/19/2022

The former chancellor has come under heavy criticism for refusing to distance himself from Russia and Vladimir Putin. Now the German government is planning to take away his office and staff, without touching his pension.

www.dw.com

Bread, circuses, and energy subsidies going global

Indonesia pumps additional $24 bln into energy subsidies

Indonesia's parliament on Thursday approved a government request to boost energy subsidies by about $23.8 billion to be able to keep some energy prices unchanged amid a global surge in inflation.

www.reuters.com

150GW offshore by 2050 in only 4 EU countries (yay !)

Four EU Countries Set Joint Target of 150 GW of Offshore Wind by 2050

Belgium, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands are set to reveal a joint offshore wind target of having at least 150 GW of generation capacity installed by 2050 to speed up the phase-out of fossil fuels and to minimise reliance on energy imports from Russia.

www.offshorewind.biz

RWE all in on Poland (and Poland all in on wind ....)

RWE Applies for All 11 Offshore Wind Areas Offered in Poland

RWE has submitted applications for location permits for all the eleven areas the Polish Government has offered for offshore wind development since the application period opened for the first sites in 2021.

www.offshorewind.biz

Sweden too for floaters

Simply Blue Group Unveils Multi-Gigawatt Floating Wind Projects Offshore Sweden

Irish floating offshore wind specialist Simply Blue Group has unveiled plans for two multi-gigawatt projects in Sweden.

www.offshorewind.biz

Siemens considers deeper wind stake

Siemens Energy Considering Full Acquisition and Delisting of Siemens Gamesa

The management of Siemens Energy AG is considering a cash tender offer for all outstanding shares in Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy S.A. with the intention to delist.

www.offshorewind.biz

Plugpower gets the gas order

US Company Gets "World's Largest" Electrolyser Order for Danish Offshore Wind-to-Hydrogen Project

US-headquartered Plug Power Inc. has received an electrolyser order from H2 Energy Europe for the 1 GW offshore wind-to-hydrogen project in Denmark. According to Plug Power, this is the world's largest electrolyser order to date.

www.offshorewind.biz

Grids in trouble, India

India's power grid creaks under hybrid work model, heatwave

Indians are cranking up air conditioning as they still work from home, while lights come back on in offices and factories with an end to COVID curbs, upending power demand patterns amid a heatwave and the country's worst blackouts in years.

www.reuters.com

Grids in trouble, USA

https://www.nerc.com/pa/RAPA/ra/Reliability%20Assessments%20DL/NERC_SRA_2022.pdf

Grids for poor people

TEP Working to Reduce Barriers to EV Adoption For Low-Income Communities

Tucson Electric Power is making an effort to ensure that charging infrastructure is available in low-to-moderate income areas, making it easier for residents to transition to ...

www.tdworld.com

EDIT
Expect Montreux kerfuffles to start arising, which might also impact Russian tanker traffic

Russia is violating the spirit of Montreux by using civilian ships for war

On Feb. 28, Turkey triggered the Montreux Convention, not used since World War II, and closed the Turkish Straits to military ships. This one move interrupted Russia’s maritime logistical supply line to Syria, interfered with its ability to rotate naval assets in the Mediterranean, and prevented...

www.mei.edu

petit_bateau · May 20, 2022

WTI $109.9
Brent $112.4
High prices will continue until demand IS destroyed !

....proof is in JohnKempReuters distillates chartbook

https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/ce/egpbkwmmdvq/GLOBAL%20DISTILLATE%20INVENTORIES%20(MAY%202022).pdf

and it is having an effect

UK consumer morale hits lowest since records began in 1974: GfK

Pessimism weighing on Britain's households has hit unprecedented levels as the cost-of-living crisis pushed confidence in the economic outlook to its joint lowest, a survey showed.

www.reuters.com

"Russia’s state-owned oil company, Rosneft, said Germany’s former chancellor, Gerhard Schroeder, and businessman, Matthias Warnig, had informed it they could not continue serving on the board of directors.It comes after the European Parliament urged that Schroeder be blacklisted if he did not step down from the board of Rosneft, Reuters reports.Schroeder, who served as German chancellor from 1998 to 2005, has come under intense public criticism for retaining his lucrative board position with Rosneft, which he had held since 2017.In a statement, Rosneft said it was “sympathetic” to the decision by Schroeder and Warnig and thanked them for their “continued support”."

"Russia to cut gas supplies to Finland on Saturday, says gas firm
Russia will stop gas flows to neighbouring Finland on Saturday morning, Finnish state-owned gas wholesaler Gasum said in a statement. The company has refused to pay Gazprom Export in roubles as Russia has requested European countries to do."

Germany getting ready

Fearing Russian cutoff, German industry braces for gas rations race

German big business is drafting a plan to use an auction system to help ration available supplies in the event Russia cuts off its gas, although some fear it could punish smaller firms.

www.reuters.com

Interesting Sino-US talking sideways

Chinese efforts to replenish reserves with Russian oil would not violate U.S. sanctions -White House

China's efforts to replenish its strategic reserves with Russian oil would not contravene U.S. sanctions, White House officials aboard Air Force One said on Thursday.

www.reuters.com

or

Column-China buys excess crude oil, looks to Russia for even more: Russell

China is continuing to import more crude oil than it needs as weak refinery processing rates, soft domestic demand and constrained exports of refined fuels combine to boost the building of stockpiles.

www.reuters.com

Petrobras starts to pivot

Petrobras Reveals 4 GW Offshore Wind Power Play in Brazil

Brazilian oil & gas major Petrobras announced on 18 May that it was evaluating the environmental feasibility of building an offshore wind farm in Aracatu, Brazil, together with Equinor.

www.offshorewind.biz

Ammonia/hydrogen included in RePowerEU

Increased Offshore Wind Targets to Fuel REPowerEU Green Hydrogen Ambitions

The 150 GW of offshore wind capacity pledged to be reached by 2050 by Belgium, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands under the Esbjerg Declaration, signed yesterday (18 May) at the North Sea Summit, will contribute to large-scale onshore and offshore production of green hydrogen, one of the...

www.offshorewind.biz

(from this....

RePowerEU mobilises €300bn to end Russian gas dependence

European Commission has mobilised the RePoweringEU package, mobilising 300 billion euros to decrease dependency on Russian gas.

www.enlit.world

UK wants a slice of hydrogen pie

UK Government Backs ERM's Floating Wind-to-Hydrogen Project

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) has been awarded GBP 8.6 million (EUR 10.1 million) in funding from the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio Low Carbon Hydrogen Supply 2 fund by the UK government for the ERM Dolpyn project.

www.offshorewind.biz

Bhutan powers up

Mangdechhu hydroelectric project - A game changer for Bhutan | Smart Energy International

The Mangdechhu hydroelectric project in central Bhutan, the country’s latest hydro plant to come online, has brought a significant increase in the installed power capacity, providing additional energy security nationally as well as the opportunity for further exports to India.

www.smart-energy.com

Orban showing the nasty way