SA renewable energy associations to launch umbrella body

"Four of South Africa’s leading renewable energy associations plan to launch an umbrella body, provisionally named the South African Renewable Energy Council, to act as a “single voice” for the industry, which is believed to be on the verge of a significant expansion phase.

The organisation’s founding members will include the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (Sapvia), the South African Wind Energy Association (Sawea), the South African Solar Thermal Industry Association (Sastela) and the Sustainable Energy Society of Southern Africa (Sessa). But it is envisioned that other partners will be included at a later stage.

In fact, Sawea CEO Johan van den Berg reports that a variety of stakeholders could be included in future, noting that a number of nongovernmental organisations have considerable expertise in renewable energy.

“There are also other renewable technologies that have industry bodies, or the beginnings thereof. We will strive to be as inclusive as possible. The idea is not to create an overarching industry body but rather to create an overarching renewable energy custodian,” Van den Berg explains."

Source and more here, on Engineering News

News Snippets

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Basil Read outlines role in 26 MW wind project - Engineering News

Law firm advised 15 of first 28 renewables preferred bidders - Engineering News

Solar Capital says 75 MW De Aar project is ‘first phase’- Engineering News

Soitec, Schneider team up on Touwsrivier solar project - Engineering News

Vestas sets sights on more SA work as first two projects advance - Engineering News

'All systems go' for Eskom’s 100 MW wind project - Engineering News

International partnership gives SA renewables scale-up a boost - Engineering News

CLIMATE NEGOTIATIONS
SA team insists COP 17 was a success, but accepts serious gaps remain - Engineering News

COP 17 breathes life into climate fund, sets agenda for future treaty - Engineering News

Countries still committed to launching $100bn climate fund - Engineering News

EU climate chief urges US, China to come on board - Engineering News

US denies delaying global climate deal - Engineering News

ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Companies commit to energy efficiency - http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/companies-commit-to-energy-efficiency-2011-12-08 Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE
SA should consider placing a price on carbon - Engineering News

Canada first nation to pull out of Kyoto protocol - Engineering News

Cities sign climate change adaptation charter - Engineering News

CARBON EMISSIONS
China sees opportunities for CDM cooperation - Engineering News

FOOD MANUFACTURING
Durban’s new R670m food plant sets green benchmark - Engineering News

CARBON MARKETS
Carbon markets still on life support after climate deal - Engineering News

SOLAR TECHNOLOGY
Research facility planned to ‘fine tune’ thin solar technology - Engineering News

IDC lends R5.2bn in support to 12 renewables bidders

"State-owned development financier the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) reports that it has approved funding worth R5.2-billion for 12 of the 28 preferred bidders recently identified by the Department of Energy (DoE) as part of a process to procure 3 725 MW of renewable energy capacity from independent power producers (IPPs) by 2016."

Source and More here on Engineering News

Mainstream wind, solar projects worth R5bn advance to next stage

"A consortium led by global renewable energy developer Mainstream Renewable Power reports that South Africa’s Department of Energy (DoE) has named three of its wind and solar projects, representing a combined capacity of 230 MW, among the initial 28 to have progressed to the preferred-bidder stage."

Source and More here on Engineering News

IEA assisting in Africa wind-mapping project

"Developing a resource map and establishing a wind atlas for Africa, particularly for the Southern African Development Community region, was key for the development of the renewable energy sector and providing access to electricity for millions across the continent, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters told Engineering News Online on Thursday."

Source and More here on Engineering News

SA unveils the names of first 28 preferred renewables bidders

"South Africa’s Energy Minister Dipuo Peters has officially disclosed the names of the first 28 renewable energy independent power producer (IPP) preferred bidders, which now have until June 2012 to take their projects to financial closure."
Source and More here on Engineering News

News Snippets

RENEWABLE ENERGY
135 MW Cookhouse wind farm the largest in first renewables round - Engineering News

Seven-year payback time for Dube TradePort solar installation - Engineering News

Saldanha steel mill supports wind-energy project - Engineering News

Cape Verde eyes 50% wind power by 2020 - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE
'Blue carbon' policy framework seeks inclusion of coastal marine areas - Engineering News

AUTO INDUSTRY
MBSA’s East London plant cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 32% - Engineering News

Electric Smart may enter SA in 2013, Mercedes-Benz hybrids to follow - Engineering News

COP17 CONFERENCE
Africa fails to profit from UN carbon-offset scheme - Engineering News

World cannot accept ‘no’ for an answer in Durban – UN chief - Engineering News

Debt and doubt loom large over Durban climate talks - Engineering News

Finance questions raised in draft UN climate paper - Engineering News

CLIMATE FUNDING
Development banks move to help cities fight climate change - Engineering News

GREEN FUNDING
Mechanisms sought to offset incremental costs of SA’s renewables roll-out - Engineering News

CARBON MARKET
Strong growth in CDM projects in Africa - Engineering News

GREEN ECONOMY
GE sees opportunities emerging from green economy in Africa - Engineering News

ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT
SAWS moving towards real-time monitoring of air pollution - Engineering News

ELECTRICITY
Electricity utilities collaborate on climate change - Engineering News

ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Energy saving LED streetlights showcased in Durban - Engineering News

CLIMATE FINANCE
Developed world must honour climate finance commitments – Sisulu - Engineering News

$100bn climate fund ‘badly needed’ – World Bank economist - Engineering News

New rules needed to accelerate investment in Africa - Engineering News

CARBON MARKET
Power utilities seek clarity on carbon market future - Engineering News

TRANSPORT INDUSTRY
Carbon tax will push up SA transport bill by up to R6bn, warns Imperial Logistics - Engineering News

CARBON DISCLOSURE
SA’s top companies rate high in carbon disclosure - Engineering News

Reports on Outcome of Cop17

Cop17 approves 2015 Climate Pact - Durban - A marathon UN climate conference on Sunday approved a roadmap towards an accord that for the first time will bring all major emitters of greenhouse gases under a single legal roof.

If approved as scheduled in 2015, the pact will be operational from 2020 and become the prime weapon in the fight against climate change. News24

Cop17 Ends: Earth and Africa still heading for disaster - At around 5am this morning, the Durban COP approved various agreements to muted applause in a sleep-deprived, numbed plenary room.

These agreements still leave Earth on track for 3-4 degrees of warming or 5-6 degrees for Africa, by 2100, almost certainly disastrous. Source: http://cop17insouthafrica.wordpress.com/2011/12/11/cop-17-ends-earth-and-africa-still-headed-for-disaster/

COP17 agrees on second commitment period of Kyoto Protocol - After an extra day's hard negotiations, the 17th Conference of Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Framework Convention of Climate Change (UNFCCC) agreed Sunday on the second commitment period under Kyoto Protocol. Source: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/sci/2011-12/11/c_131299821.htm

A brief summary of the Outcome with a link to a more detailed summary

Protest outside COP 17 hall

"Durban - A group of about 60 protesters blocked the corridor leading to the hall where negotiations were taking place at the COP 17 climate change conference in Durban on Friday.

They held up posters reading: "Don't kill Africa" and "stand strong Africa".

A line of United Nations security personnel in blue shirts stood in front of them.

The protesters were not violent, but were noisy, chanting slogans such as "we need a deal in Durban to happen now" and "seal the deal now".

They also started singing Shosholoza and clapping their hands.

The Greenpeace banner "Listen to the people not the polluters" could be seen at the front of the group."

Source and more here, on News24

COP-17: All countries still not on board for deal

If "big" countries such as the US, India and China did not sign up to the new deal taking shape at the Durban-hosted United Nations climate change talks (COP-17), there would be no deal, European Union climate change commissioner Connie Hedegaard said on Friday morning.

Source and more here, on Business Day

Global Day of Action March - Durban 03 December 2011

Find out more here

VWSA cuts electricity consumption by 55%

"Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has cut electricity use at its Uitenhage plant by 42% from 2009 to 2010, with a further 13% reduction achieved from 2010 to 2011, says VWSA communications GM Matt Gennrich.

This forms part of Volkswagen’s Blue Factory initiative, to be found under the Think Blue banner, which guides the German brand’s approach to environmental issues."

Source and read more

NEWS SNIPPETS

Renewable Energy
Evaluation of first renewables bids complete, preferred bidders to be unveiled soon - Engineering News

Group Five confirms six renewables bids, to submit more in March - Engineering News

BMW to supply Rosslyn plant with electricity from waste - Engineering News

COP 17 CONFERENCE
COP 17 events progressing well – Minister - Engineering News

China decries Canada's 'bad example' in climate talks - Engineering News

Banks seen as climate culprits at global talks – report - Engineering News

SA temperature rise above global average - Engineering News
Climate Negotiations
Qatar to host 2012 UN climate talks  - Engineering News
Africa holds big green economy potential - Zuma - Engineering News

COP 17 Durban meeting will be a 'decisive moment' – Minister - Engineering News

CLIMATE MEETING
Heated debate over $100bn climate fund, says Saudi Arabia adviser - Engineering News

EU demands roadmap for global climate deal - Engineering News
Angola calls for common African position at COP 17 - Engineering News
GREEN ECONOMY
Climate-resilient infrastructure investments part of low-carbon transition - Engineering News
GREEN FINANCE
EIB, Investec unveil €100m green energy fund - Engineering News

SOLAR WATER HEATING
Eskom's Lennon sees ‘significant’ opportunities for SWH firms - Engineering News
SUSTAINABLE RETAIL
Walmart begins sharing green best practices with Massmart - Engineering News
CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE TECHNOLOGY
Norway to commission $1bn carbon capture and storage project in 2012 - Engineering News
SA supports carbon capture and storage but costs still a concern - Engineering News
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Philips, Eskom launch big LED lighting initiative - Engineering News
GEOTHERMAL
Kenyan KenGen raises $920m for geothermal plant - Engineering News
HYDROELECTRIC DAM
Portugal sale of stake in Mozambique dam delayed - Engineering News
ENERGY
Deputy Minister urges open mind on shale gas - Engineering News

NUCLEAR ENERGY
Any new disaster could spell the end of nuclear industry – economist - Engineering News
SA sets up nuclear oversight body, to name participants ‘in due course’ - Engineering News

Nuclear power seen (by some) as climate change mitigation option - Engineering News

Upscaling renewables beyond IRP allocations will drive green jobs - report

"A new ‘Green Jobs’ report estimates that some 130 023 direct jobs could be created by South Africa’s renewable energy sector by 2025, but only if the renewables allocation outlined in the current Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2010-2030 is materially expanded"

Source and More here on Engineering News

NEWS SNIPPETS

CARBON TAX
SA carbon tax could have growth, jobs co-benefits – World Bank - Engineering News

Carbon Taxation: South Africa and beyond - Global Carbon Exchange

Sustainability Efforts reduce medical claims - Global Carbon Exchange

RENEWABLE ENERGY
Bank sees strong interest in renewable energy investments - Engineering News

As renewables bids flow, SA seeks ways to lower the deployment costs - Engineering News

Eskom weighs emission-reduction options as its launches PV pilot - Engineering News

World Bank OKs $297m for Morocco solar plant - Engineering News

SOLAR POWER
Big rooftop solar installation for Dube TradePort - Engineering News

R22m made available to kick start E Cape SWH project - Engineering News

CLIMATE NEGOTIATIONS
Science not politics must drive Durban climate talks - Engineering News

Zuma calls for credible COP 17 outcome - Engineering News

As the COP 17 clock counts down, few signs of global consensus emerge - Engineering News

SWHs to help minimise COP 17 environmental footprint - Engineering News

Time running out for deal on global warming at climate talks - Engineering News
AVIATION & BIOFUELS
SAA mulls big biofuels shift in bid to avoid possible carbon penalties - Engineering News

The Monsterous Price of South Africa's Coal Addiction

Check out this GreenPeace Africa article highlighting a report they released about a month ago called 'the True Cost of Coal'.

This report calculates the actual cost of Kusile's entire coal chain. The report provides compelling evidence that South Africa should end its addiction to coal.

You can read the report and full article here.

Nuclear illness scourge

"Exposure to uranium at South African nuclear facilities over the years has left dozens of people dead and hundreds of others terminally ill, an investigation by The New Age has revealed."

Source and More here on: The New Age

Wind Turbines and Bird Fatalities

"Last month, biologists found 484 bird carcasses at the AES-owned Laurel Mountain wind installation in West Virginia. The mass mortality event did not involve turbines."

"...(apparently the) cause was that migrating birds were drawn to lights left on at the facility’s electrical substation in cold foggy weather. The birds, it is theorized, were galvanized and disoriented by the bright lights and circled until they died and fell out of the sky."

This article also provides an interesting chart on bird mortalities and the various causes.

Source and More here on greentechmedia

Illovo aims for energy self-sufficiency in 3 to 5 years

"JSE-listed Illovo Sugar aims to move towards achieving self-sufficiency in electricity generation, as it increases its use of renewable energy, the sugar producer said on Wednesday.

GM Graham Clark tells Engineering News Online that with ongoing initiatives and capital investments, the group hopes to reach self-sufficiency within the next three to five years."
Source and More here on: Engineering News

Grid Connectivity Talk Hosted by Greencape Initiative (Cape Town)

We attended a "Grid Connectivity" talk hosted by the Greencape Initiative in the Cape Town CBD today. Our rough notes on what was covered are given below[for confirmation of the facts, refer to the Greencape Initiative website]:

FIRST, OUR COMMENTS:
It is interesting to note that at events such as this, it has become apparent that there is substantial public interest in smaller projects and home installations. The fact that getting net metering off the ground could be difficult due to the potential risk of loss of income to Municipalities is unfortunate and makes one wonder about the actual purpose of these public bodies (i.e. protecting the public's best interests v being a going concern as if a private company). We do, however, hope that the steps Eskom is taking to allow for IPPs to get RE projects off the ground in SA are going to be fruitful and we think that the Greencape Initiative is a valuable support structure to help this process get off the ground.

OUR ROUGH NOTES:
The main speaker was Riaan Smit, Chief Engineer of Network Planning at Eskom.

Riaan started by reviewing the outcome of the first bidding process for SA's tender for the procurement of renewable energy by Independant Power Producers for which applications were accepted up to 04 November 2011.

149 applications for wind power projects, 122 Solar PV, 9 CSP & 41 applications for 'other' projects were received. Wind was clearly proved the most popular (in terms of the number of applications submitted) with PV following close behind.

In terms of capacity (MW), wind power again came tops, taking roughly 75%.

Rebid progress (started 17 November 2011):
Only 53 bids have been confirmed as received.
Many applications are not meeting the necessary requirements (environmental and other)
[Note: preferred bidders to be announced by the DoE over Cop17 (Durban).]

THE GRID & DIFFERENT RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES

Challenge:
Where to develop new grid. Lead times of projects etc. New grids need to be built over the next 30 years.

Different technologies - Impact on the grid:
wind - You get the older and newer concepts all with different specs in terms of: power regulation; speed; gearbox; type; inverter, and voltage. There is a need to model the various types (a, b, c and d). Types C & D favoured (DFIG & PMSG[full power electronic converters]).
Ref: africa electricity.com

CSP - discussed two types of energy storage:
steam storage vessel (e.g. Spain example) or salt storage.
Indicated that steam storage "stabilised production during cloud transient - more grid friendly".

TECHNICAL CONCERNS / AWARENESS

1.thermal loading of lines and transformers
2.voltage variations during the normal operation
3. overvoltage studies for RE projects
4. voltage recovery after faults
5. phasing out old networks [instead of fixing existing infrastructure, maybe redo on new network.

(dependant on size and location)

Took Laingsberg wind power facility as an example - expect high voltages; small voltage changes due to line outages.
power factor control characteristic - need to choose correct wind turbine technology [C or d].

Line lengths are a big factor - Longer the line, increase in losses, voltage changes, limit transfer, capacity constrained.

what to do? Thicken[?] up conductor? Ask developers to move sites?

More technical concerns/awareness:
6.reactive power control
7.focus on load modelling
8.short circuit currents. fault level.
9.limit system losses vs maximum use of thermal capacities
10.reliability required by wind, pv, csp, other developers.
11.impact on power quality aspects.
12.transmission system requirements such as voltage stability
13.dynamic studies for various technologies, including mw networks.
14.impact on sub-synchronous resonance for cape network (rotor movement in cape v rotor movement north - can cause resonance).
15.voltage sags due to breaker operation
16.cable/transformer inrush currents
17.influence on ripple control systems.

CURRENT ESKOM ACTIVITIES:
Staff went to Denmark to visit two facilities for 3 weeks to gain practical experience. Feedback is that we are not as far behind as what was anticipatied. The main focus during this visit was skills development and new documentation.

Grid access unit established - customer service interface and applications.

Distribution master plans and network development plans to cater for RE scenarios. What to expect? Which applications will be approved? How to plan for networks in future.

Distribution self build policy and guideline - expect for it to be available Dec 2011.

Transmission updating generation connection capacity assessment future scenarios - A follow up of GCCA-2012. Making some changes to this. Should be available middle next year (scenerious up to 2040) [IRP going on to 2013]. Will build different scenarios, including less nuclear scenario to see if replaced by RE how it will be.

STILL NEED TO ADDRESS requirements for small renewable energy projects (based on NRS 097-2). Smaller i.e. 1mw and bigger.

Nothing yet for smaller than 1MW. Commented that maybe get the bigger ones goings and then tackle 100kw (household). Maybe next year. NRS 097-2 - making provision for smaller project technical requirements.

Smart grid working group.
people say smart grid(s) are the answer.
For this reason, this group has been established.

LESSONS LEARNT
company "A" does not transfer cost estimate from Eskom to company "B"

Mismatch between property ownership/rights and actual servitude requirements.

Mismatch between Eskom technical solutions offered and developer documents
point of utility coupling - gaps identified

developers risk project if scope not clearly defined and agreed with Eskom mismatch between developer EIA own solutions vs Eskom practical solution - eg cannot just rebuild new line on existing servitude while supplying customers.

Clear indication of self built with time lines/lead times to be well defined.

Q&A:
1. EIA time lapse - Can use of cables make it easier? - A: If the EIA needs to improve route - then it won't make it easier.

2. Someone from the floor said that NERSA has condoned roof top - unqualified access to grid for anything below 100kw. A:Rian says that nothing has been approved. If NERSA condones then it is something still to be developed, perhaps next year.

Another response to question 2 above: Someone added that we are talking about net metering and that local authorities are working together to try and achieve this. There is no problem with it, but we just haven't worked out the regulatory environment for it. Once this is in place, Eskom has to execute it, but to get this in place will take time. NERSA does the regulating, but at the end of the day, it must be dealt with on a local authority level. To get anything through, it will have to be sent through National Treasury. Local authorities make their revenue from electricity sales and Treasury may be weary of implementing systems which may lead to having to bail out local authorities that go bust.

3. Developers are not allowed to combine (resources?). DOE issue.

4. How to handle intermittent load of RE. Example of how Germany and Netherlands have good integrated networks and why gas can play a role as it does there, in allowing for quick response. Ramp rate of solar might also help. Noted that it is said that ramp rate in Britain is not a big issue. Example of sports event or royal wedding intermission times when there is major consumption peak (use of kettles, etc) and how the grid handled it. It is a matter of conventional and reserves being properly managed. Problem in SA is that we don't have reserve to allow for this.
................

Renewables sector makes local content pledge as SA unveils new green deal

South Africa's emerging renewable-energy industry committed to a minimum local content level of 35% for the initial roll-out of renewables projects, but indicated that steps would be taken to raise that level towards government's aspirational target of 75% over time.

The commitment was made in a new 'Green Economy Accord', which was signed by government, business, labour and organised community groups at a ceremony held in Cape Town on Thursday.

Source and More here on Engineering News

News Snippets

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Enel GP in solar power bid in South Africa - Engineering News

Standard Bank eyes solar lamp CO2 offsets in Asia - Engineering News

Evaluation of first renewable-energy project bids begins as first deadline closes - Engineering News

SUSTAINABILITY

Environmental sustainability seen as a driver for competitiveness - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE

Policy shows SA ready to take action on climate change - Engineering News

Industry questions SA climate change plan - Engineering News
SA should showcase low carbon investment opportunities at COP 17 - Engineering News 

SA not backing away from its GHG reduction targets – Minister - Engineering News

CLIMATE NEGOTIATIONS

SA to strive for climate, development balance at COP 17 - Engineering News

WWF sees COP 17 as laying foundation for future deal - Engineering News
CLIMATE FUND

Africa urged to unite against corruption ahead of COP 17 - Engineering News

UN climate fund rifts linger, Durban talks loom – EU - Engineering News

POWER

Japan, Korean firms win Kenya geothermal contract - Engineering News

Vac-from-the-Sea (Plastic Recycling, green art and raising awareness about ocean pollution)

On International Coastal Clean-Up Day, plastic was collected at Hout Bay Harbour by 50 divers. The plastic debris collected was then handed over to local artist and eco-warrior, Simon Max Bannister, to construct South Africa’s first Vac from the Sea artwork in a Woodstock studio in Cape Town. By melting the plastic and using a heated spray gun Simon applies different coloured plastics onto a re-cycled vacuum cleaner to highlight our unique coastal Cape Town position where the hot and cold currents of the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. The underlying purpose being to raise awareness about the necessity of plastic recycling and to empower people to take responsibility for ensuring a cleaner ocean and beaches.

Source here on: http://5050.internext.co.za/?p=169

NEWS SNIPPETS

SOLAR CAR CHALLENGE
Sponsorships up for grabs to enter SA's third solar car race - Engineering News 

RENEWABLE ENERGY
SA evaluating 53 mostly wind, solar bids worth R7bn, next bid window set for March - Engineering News 

SA moves to establish ‘Renewable Energy Fund’ - Engineering News

World Bank’s African renewables funding rises to $3.6bn - Engineering News


LOCAL MANUFACTURING
Local solar water heater manufacturers taking strain - Engineering News

HYDROPOWER
SA, DRC hope MoU will foster more ‘inclusive’ Grand Inga plan - Engineering News

GREEN FUND
Anglo launches R100m ‘green’ development fund - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE
Africa's Nile, Limpopo at risk from climate change - Engineering News

WIND POWER
Kenyan firm plans 61 MW wind power farm - Engineering News 

Greenpeace Confronts Eskom - End coal addiction and embrace renewables today

07 November 2011 -

"Greenpeace activists today dropped a banner from a crane inside the construction grounds of ESKOM’s latest colossal coal-fired power plant, Kusile - reading ‘Kusile: climate killer’. At the same time, other activists have locked themselves to gates at the plant’s front entrance - protesting with banners saying ‘green jobs now’ and ‘no future in coal’ – calling on ESKOM, the utility company, to stop its coal addiction and instead invest in renewable energy projects in South Africa."

Source and read more: Greenpeace

Solardome closes production facility after 42 years

"Solardome, the oldest solar water heater (swh) manufacturer in the Western Cape, will be closing its production facility at the end of November 2011.
This family owned business, founded in 1969 by Gustaf Lindenberg and run by his son, Tertius, has been producing high quality durable swh systems for 42 years. Solardome has been a landmark in the swh industry, advancing research into innovative technology, product development and most importantly creating valuable jobs in this sector.
Tertius lays the blame for the closing of their production facility at the door of the regulatory environment in this country.
At least three more swh manufacturers in the Western Cape are at the point of making the same decision as Solardome.
Since the implementation of the Eskom swh incentive programme in 2008, the industry has been through incredible flux. This programme has brought with it new regulatory costs and often unclear policy or programme changes that caused knee jerk reactions to the market. Had the programme managed to stimulate the demand for swh’s this higher regulatory cost might have been absorbed. After three years of the programme, the installation of high pressure swh’s has grown from about 16,000 to about 30,000 units per year. Even though this is a reasonable percentage growth, we are working from such a low base that it cannot be considered significant. Furthermore, if compared to the more than 500 000 standard geysers installed every year in South Africa, it is clear that the market is still operating at well below its potential. What is even more significant is that the number of suppliers of swh’s has in the same time grown from 45 to more than 500. This programme has managed to convince new businesses (mostly importers) to enter the market, but has failed to stimulate the demand in the same way.
Prior to the implementation of the swh programme approximately 50% to 70% of swh’s installed in South Africa was locally manufactured. At the outset concern was raised by several local swh manufacturers about the future viability of the industry. As part of the terms of reference of the programme, there was a commitment to implement a local manufacturing component to the calculation of the subsidy value within one year from the launch of the programme. This local content multiplier was to be implemented no later than 2009. This local content multiplier was however only announced in June 2011, but was later cancelled. It was announced that a revised structure would be implemented in October 2011. In September 2011 the implementation of the multiplier was postponed to January 2012.
On the eve of our country hosting COP17 and with the supposed promotion of renewable energy, reduction of carbon emissions and especially local economic development, it is a tragedy that a swh manufacturing business that has been in operation for more than 40 years has to close its doors.
It is probably too late for Solardome, but something has to change so that we don’t look back in a year’s time and see that every last one of our factories have closed and the only swh’s on the market are imports."
SOURCE: K Kritzinger - Greencape

Life Cycle Cost of Coal Power

"A new Harvard University study examines the life cycle cost of coal power including all the resulting environmental and health expenses and found that although the coal itself might be cheap, the price of generating power from it is not. The study found that coal power actually costs the U.S. somewhere between $345 billion and $500 billion each year.

The study says that if all of those expenses were included in people's electricity bills, it would double to triple the cost of coal power, adding $0.09 - $0.27 per kWh, making it no longer the cheapest source of electricity, but one of the most expensive.

Some of the hidden expenses outlined in the study are elevated rates of cancer and other diseases in coal-mining regions, environmental damage to those areas (including water and air pollution), loss of tourism dollars and costs related to climate change.

The full study titled "Full cost accounting for the life cycle of coal" will be published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences soon.

via Reuters and Greenpeace"

Source: EcogeekWritten by Megan Treacy on 17/02/11

News Snippets

RENEWABLE ENERGY
Eskom secures yet more development finance for wind, solar projects - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE
Climate Train starts journey to raise awareness ahead of COP 17 - Engineering News

CARBON CREDITS
Standard Bank, Sable to complete first Zimbabwe CDM project - Engineering News

ENERGY
Fossil fuels still seen as dominant energy source by 2050 - Engineering News

Carbon capture and storage losing momentum - Engineering News

Coal's role in SA power future - Engineering News

CLIMATE NEGOTIATIONS
COP 17 no walk in the park – Zuma - Engineering News

COGENERATION
Mondi up to 79% energy self-reliant - Engineering News

CARBON TAX & PROPERTY
Carbon tax to have significant impact on property sector - Engineering News

News Snippets

SOLAR WATER HEATING
East London SWH plant officially launched - Engineering News


WATER & POWER
Ratification sought for next Lesotho Highlands phase, separate $15bn power scheme is unveiled - Engineering News


WIND POWER
Big wind turbine mould arrives in Cape Town - Engineering News


NUCLEAR POWER
SA nuclear power programme closer to R400bn – DG - Engineering News


GREEN BUILDING
GBCSA launches rating tool for multi-unit residential buildings - Engineering News

Vodacom achieves SA's first 6-star green building rating - Engineering News


CLIMATE FUNDING
$100bn Green Climate Fund hits barrier - Engineering News


CLIMATE CHANGE
Durban climate change meeting ‘won’t be easy’ – Minister - Engineering News


Big business, investors urge tough climate action - Engineering News

Relief for South Africa's pigs in sight

"Sow stalls are to give way to group housing on deep litter.

Sow stalls for breeding pigs are likely to be phased-out in South Africa by 2020. Confirmation of the date of phase-out is anticipated by the end of November this year, Mr James Jenkinson, board member of theSouth African Pork Producers’ Organisation (SAPPO) told Compassion in World Farming (South Africa) last week."

Source and More here on Urban Sprout

Hout Bay Green Faire 2011

This year's Hout Bay Green Faire took place on Saturday the 29th of October. Although the rain clouds threatened from time to time it turned out to be an amazing day! Free Life on Earth participated as an exhibitor. This year we raised awareness about deforestation because 2011 was declared International Year of the Forests. Find out more about the Hout Bay Green Faire here.

Pics: Free Life on Earth Committee Members at the Hout Bay Green Faire 2011; Free Life on Earth 'Year of the Forests' stand

NEWS SNIPPETS

GREEN FINANCE
R500m energy-efficiency fund will also support self-use renewables projects - Engineering News

NUCLEAR
Japan still considering total nuclear power pullout - Engineering News

AUTO INDUSTRY
Lessons in driving an electric car - Engineering News

CLIMATE TALKS
Businesses becoming more involved in climate talks - Engineering News

ECOLOGY & ECONOMY
SA moves to begin reflecting the economic value of its ecosystems, biodiversity - Engineering News 

CLIMATE NEGOTIATIONS
South Africa faces COP 17 balancing act - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE
SA gives carbon-heavy sectors two years to set carbon budgets - Engineering News

GREEN ECONOMY

Switch to green economy 'will be painful' - Engineering News

Wind power is key to KwaZulu-Natal’s green economy - Engineering News

NEWS SNIPPETS

CLIMATE POLICY
Climate policy to map out transition to low-carbon economy  - Engineering News 

SOLAR GEYSERS
New initiative seeks to tap carbon-credit potential of SA’s solar-geyser roll-out - Engineering News

GREEN TECHNOLOGY
Air France and Airbus complete green commercial flight - Engineering News

TRADE & CLIMATE CHANGE
SA should align trade and climate policies – Treasury official - Engineering News

GREEN ECONOMY
Environmental Affairs, DBSA to establish 'green' funding mechanism - Engineering News

DPE drafting climate change, green economy policy for SoEs - Engineering News

RENEWABLES FUNDING
SA to launch renewables funding scheme at climate conference - Engineering News

EMISSIONS
South Korea sets 2012 CO2 cut volume for industry, power - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE
SA approves climate policy, confident on COP 17 - Engineering News

SA will not deviate from African bloc in key climate talks - Engineering News

Climate change negotiators see no major Durban deal - Engineering News

AUTO INDUSTRY
Less is more, promises BMW  - Engineering News

Nissan to launch Leaf electric car in SA in 2013 – if policy is in place - Engineering News

Hyundai SA starts construction on its new R75m green head office - Engineering News

NUCLEAR ENERGY
Lessons from Fukushima outlined in SA nuclear safety meeting - Engineering News

Japan begins energy debate as nuclear forces fight back - Engineering News

50/50 - Wave Energy & SA's Energy Future (aired Monday, 17 October 2011)

On Monday night, 50|50 had an insert discussing wave energy technology and its potential to play a role in SA's energy future. The insert overview can be obtained on the 50|50 website:

"With the change in global production of energy imminent then, there’s now money to be made in investing in alternative energy. Wind and Solar energy have the biggest interest from investors. Other options are hydroelectric power – as we’ve seen produced from some of Eskom’s dams in the Drakensburg – tide energy, geothermal energy, photovoltaic energy and waves. So what’s the big fuss? If there are so many sustainable ways of getting energy, why are politicians and energy providers dragging their heels?"

Source and More here on 50/50

Eskom seeks transition from rebates to contracts to bolster solar-geyser roll-out

"State-owned power utility Eskom has indicated that it favours a transition to a competitive bidding, or contractual, model for the large-scale procurement of low-pressure solar water heaters (SWH) ahead of a continuation of the current rebate scheme, or the deployment of a so-called ‘standard offer’ incentive."


Source and more here on Engineering News

Japanese breakthrough will make wind power cheaper than nuclear [and coal?]

"A surprising aerodynamic innovation in wind turbine design called the 'wind lens' could triple the output of a typical wind turbine, making it less costly than nuclear power." Source: Mother Nature Network - by Karl Burkart. 

This article tells all about this new invention and gives a summary on the wind energy potential in the US. Well worth the read!

Can Japan's Anti-Nuclear Protesters Keep the Reactors Shut Down?

"For months after a devastating earthquake and tsunami crippled Japan's Fukushima power plant, sparking fears of a possible nuclear meltdown, the country's anti-nuclear groups struggled to be heard. A few small rallies were held, but they failed to generate much media coverage. As debates raged from Germany to China about the safety of nuclear reactors, commentary in Japan, of all places, was strangely absent. Protests are just that unusual in this conservative country.

But this is starting to change. As Fukushima continues to spew more radioactivity into the air and trust in the government and Tokyo Electric Power Co. plunges, the mood in Japan is slowly shifting away from nuclear power. On Sept. 19, the mounting anger and fear culminated in a rally of some 60,000 anti-nuclear protesters in Tokyo — the largest such gathering since the March 11 quake and tsunami."

Source and More here on - Time

Massive increase in Green Star rated buildings in SA

"The green movement in the built environment is spreading like wildfire and in the month of September alone the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) certified three new green buildings in SA under the Green Star SA rating system."

Source and More here on - SA Commercial Prop News 

Transforming South Africa’s Energy Sector Through Renewable Energy

"In this article Davin Chown argues that South Africa should take advantage of the opportunities presented by renewable energies and stop relying on coal-fired power stations which emit carbon emissions and pollute the environment."

"South Africa has long relied on coal to produce cheap electricity - or what we were led to believe was cheap electricity. This cheap, but dirty fossil fuel has driven our country’s economy for many decades, and has, alongside this development, created many thousands of jobs both in the mining and energy sector.

...

For everyone involved, the change to a new renewable energy system will be sometimes slow and frustrating, but it is clear that South Africa cannot go on with its polluting ways and continue to face the impacts of climate change on its agricultural systems and in general its eco-system which are the glue and foundation that keep the economic system going. We are in a once-off transition to sustainability and South Africa is in a position to learn from the mistakes made by others, and not to repeat these very costly mistakes."

Source and More here on - NGO Pulse.

NEWS SNIPPETS

WIND POWER
Danish wind turbine part maker mulls SA plant - Engineering News

DST to offer assistance packages to spur localisation in wind sector - Engineering News

Big wind power roll-out to bring transport headaches - Engineering News

MANUFACTURING
Proudly SA’s new CEO to place spotlight on govt procurement policies - Engineering News

GREEN TECHNOLOGY
Entrepreneurs, SMEs urged to participate in clean tech competition - Engineering News

RENEWABLE ENERGY
UNDP adviser highlights renewable energy tender approach drawbacks - Engineering News

AfDB loan concludes 100-MW Eskom wind farm funding phase - Engineering News

CLIMATE CONFERENCE
SA’s latest climate study to reveal severe weather risks - Engineering News

AUTO INDUSTRY
DTI to mull over draft electric vehicle strategy before it goes to Cabinet - Engineering News

GM, SAIC sign electric vehicle development agreement - Engineering News

ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS
SA hosts deforestation emissions reduction workshop ahead of COP 17 - Engineering News

We Up the Pressure on Govt to Stop Nuclear - Greenpeace

West African Fisheries Decline Steeply as Government Fails to Act - Greenpeace
GREEN ECONOMY
Carbon-neutral Green Cab helps to shrink carbon footprint - Engineering News

GREEN BUILDING
Three more office developments certified under Green Star SA - Engineering News

Green Building Council to launch pilot public and education rating tool - Engineering News

Planting Day

23 September was Planting Day, according to the Planting Season team. 

"One look at the international stock market tells you that now is the perfect time to get that vegetable garden growing." - Planting Season team

For more information here on - Planting Season

Seeds for Growth: Financing smallholder farming in southern Africa

The Book, "Seeds for Growth: Financing smallholder farming in southern Africa" explores how governance and political decision-making about the allocation of resources could transform the smallholder agricultural landscape in southern Africa. It affirms the role smallholder agriculture can play in a national and regional political system in the pursuit of social and economic justice."

Source and More here on - Idasa

Eskom signs two loan agreements for wind project

"Eskom signed two loan agreements totalling $365 million with the African Development Bank on Sunday, which will enable it to implement a renewable wind and solar generator, the electricity parastatal said.

"These are exciting times for Eskom," CEO Brian Dames said in a statement.

"We are committed to a cleaner energy future and we now have the capability to implement our large-scale wind and solar generation projects. We appreciate the roles the African Development Bank and the South African government have played in making this possible," he said."

Source and More here on - Times Live

NEWS SNIPPET - GREEN BUILDING

"Amendments were recently introduced to the Regulations to the Building Standards Act in Government Gazette 34586, Notice 711, dated 9 September 2011.


These aim to set down certain requirements for energy usage in buildings and will become effective two months after publication in the Gazette, i.e. on 10 November 2011. Developers, architects and builders can have a look at the regulations here ."

Source: STBB|Smith Tabata Buchanan Boyes Attorneys

24 Sept 2011 - Global Protest to Move Away from Fossil Fuels

A global initiative by organisations and individuals called "Moving Planet" headed by the organisation called 350 took place yesterday 24 September 2011, with 2000 events taking place in over 175 countries across the planet. The aim is to show world leaders that "a movement is rising to move our planet forward to a clean energy future". View a slideshow of images from all corners of the globe here on the Moving Planet website. In Cape Town, South Africa a "Tread Lightly" procession of people marched through the city centre carrying messages promoting renewable energy, greening, recycling, eating and buying local, and protests against fracking, nuclear and fossil fuels. Below are some pictures of the Cape Town event taken by Free Life on Earth.

NEWS SNIPPETS

GREEN BUILDING
The case for green retrofitting is clear, says CIDB’s Milford

NUCLEAR PROTEST
Greenpeace calls on SA to abandon nuclear energy plans

ELECTRICITY
5 000 MW solar park study to be finalised by end 2012

CARBON FINANCING
SA could lose out on carbon financing if EU moves ahead with LDC plan

RENEWABLE ENERGY
ABB to build two solar PV plants for Eskom

CLIMATE CHANGE
Businesses urged to get involved in climate negotiating process

AGRICULTURE
G20 to draft plan on agriculture, infrastructure

NUCLEAR
Nuclear plans to go before Cabinet soon, bidding to start in 2012

ENERGY
African Ministers to compile list of priority energy projects

COAL SUPPLY
Eskom to source another 5Mt of coal to boost stockpile

COGENERATION
SACC to build 8 MW cogen plant in Newcastle

Simplified tender for small-scale renewables by November

"Simplified tender documentation for small-scale renewable energy independent power producer (IPP) projects of between 1 MW and 5 MW were currently being prepared and should be released by November, the South African government reported on Wednesday.

Speaking at a media briefing held on the sidelines of a renewable energy bidders conference being hosted to canvass responses to the Department of Energy’s (DoE’s) request for proposals (RFP) for the procurement of 3 725 MW of renewables capacity from IPPs capable of delivering projects by 2016, the National Treasury’s Karen Breytenbach said work was currently under way on the documentation.

The tender should be available for release by the time the first bid window closed for the current RFP on November 4, 2011, and she promised that it would be “much simpler” and would “lower the barriers to entry”."

Source and More here on Engineering News.

NEWS SNIPPETS

RENEWABLE ENERGY
Renewables bidders conference reflects high levels of interest in SA roll-out
Lack of solar preparedness could see capacity reallocated to wind

Aveng confirms plans to take equity in wind, solar projects

CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE
COP 17 key for decision on carbon capture’s inclusion under CDM

SOLAR POWER
R1.6m solar PV system installed at new Valpré spring water plant

ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE
Sanbi accredited as UN Adaptation Fund implementing entity

CLIMATE CHANGE
Concerns grow over common position for Africa at climate negotiations
Infrastructure needed to help farmers cope with climate change  

EU wants firm decisions on legally binding climate agreement

Level of ambition in climate talks a ‘serious concern’ − Zuma

Funding shortfall will not impact COP 17 quality – Minister

POWER GENERATION
SA still attractive to IPP investors despite current poor growth

GREEN BUILDING
Green building council sharpens its focus on training

UNCONVENTIONAL GAS
More technical work needed to define SA’s shale gas framework

GREEN TECHNOLOGY
Climate technology mechanism team concludes first meeting

GREENING JOBURG
196 trees to be planted along Empire BRT route in Joburg

A renewed focus on green energy

This Mail&Guardian online article gives a good overview of the Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme.

NEWS SNIPPETS

RENEWABLE ENERGY

SA reports big interest in DoE's renewables tender - Engineering News

Eskom gets new loan for wind project - Engineering News

SOLAR POWER
Solar geyser programme roll-out to be accelerated - Engineering News

GREEN TECHNOLOGY
Climate technology committee kicks off first meeting in Germany - Engineering News

CONSERVATION
Agreement signed to preserve integrity of Mapungubwe - Engineering News

UNCONVENTIONAL GAS
Shell could spend $200m on SA shale gas search - Engineering News

ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION
Minister invites comments on environmental legislation changes - Engineering News

ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTMENT
Nedbank commits R9m to WWF water programme - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE

UN climate boss says Durban talks can deliver - Engineering News

Innovative climate funding key to low-emission development − UNDP - Engineering News

Nkoana-Mashabane urges labour to support govt’s ambitions for COP 17 - Engineering News

CLIMATE FINANCE
SA to benefit should climate funding target be met, Manuel says - Engineering News

AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR

Greener vehicle manufacturing could prove challenging for SA - Engineering News

SA should step up its biofuels efforts – Toyota - Engineering News

Barrels of radioactive uranium (yellow cake) discovered near Swakop beach

"Unguarded barrels of radioactive uranium (yellow cake) have been discovered on Swakopmund beach. Near the sewerage works at Tamariskia investigators found 4 barrels." See more on Namibian News Forum

Solar Boat's progress in circumnavigating the globe

The Tûranor PlanetSolar vessel recently docked in Hong Kong. "....Designed in New Zealand, built in Germany and flying a Swiss flag, the 102-foot boat has completed about two-thirds of a voyage that began in Monaco last September. So far it has sailed nearly 24,000 miles."

Read more here.

Why GM foods won't solve hunger in Africa

Read more here on Greenpeace.

Recent Renewable Energy Updates Out of Africa

Check out this "Fresh Air Newsletter" from the African Wind Energy Association. Below is a preview of some of the stories covered:

Tanzania: Expert stresses significance of renewable energy options

Ghana’s Minister of Energy Joins West Africa’s ECREEE

Green light for renewable energy in Namibia

MALI - Constructing their sixth turbine.

First Renewable Energy Exhibition goes online

Beyond Capacity: Why Italy changed its PV Strategy

China’s largest Wind Developer acquires stake in Canadian wind farm

Spain overtakes US with biggest Solar Power Station

World’s first Commercial Wave Power Project

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY - The INgSOC hybrid bike that is out of this world!

Organic At Heart

Greepeace Africa Receives Feedback From Eskom

Extracted from Greenpeace Africa website:

"In June this year, we unloaded five tons of coal on Eskom’s doorstep. We did this to highlight the fact that coal kills, and to publicly demand that Eskom clean up its act by stopping the construction of Kusile coal-fired power station. One of our latest reports, ‘The Advanced Energy [R]evolution, a sustainable energy outlook for South Africa’, outlines a pathway to a future based on renewable energy, and found that Kusile need not be built at all to keep South Africa’s lights on.

We are asking for three key things from Eskom: stop the construction of Kusile, substantially increase investments in renewable energy, and no investments in any new nuclear projects. In light of the urgency to address climate change, we requested an in-depth meeting with Eskom’s senior experts to discuss our Energy [R]evolution scenario.

This week, we had exactly that technical discussion with Eskom. We wanted to get feedback on the report, but also to better understand the utility’s position on renewables, and the assumptions that Eskom is making when it comes to energy planning in South Africa. We also took the opportunity to explain the solid basis of our Energy [R]evolution scenario, hopefully increasing Eskom’s understanding of our work."

Read more here at Greenpeace Africa.

What tar sands and the Keystone XL pipeline mean for climate change

Environmentalist Bill McKibben was among 100 people arrested at the weekend for protesting against the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline. But why are climate campaigners so concerned?

Read more here at Guardian Environment Network.

GBCSA: South Africa's first 5 star Green Star SA rating

"The GBCSA is thrilled that South Africa has its first 5 star certified building and that Cape Town is on the Green Star SA map

Aurecon’s office building is the first building in South Africa to be awarded a 5 star Green Star SA - Office Design v1 rating by the GBCSA. This building is located in Century City, Cape Town, and nearing completion. The Rabie Property Group developed the building which will serve as Aurecon’s new regional offices for global engineering, management and specialist technical services."

Extracted from GBCSA newsletter, 17 August 2011.

NEWS SNIPPETS

RENEWABLE ENERGY
Renewables bid represents ‘substantive progress’, but raises compliance burden - Engineering News

AUTO INDUSTRY
Golf BlueMotion sets SA fuel record, says VW - Engineering News

URBAN REGENERATION
Green building techniques key to R140m Benoni development - Engineering News

CARBON EMISSIONS
China studying regional CO2 caps – official - Engineering News

WATER
Red lights flash for SA rivers - Engineering News

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE
Silicon Smelters fined R3m for contravening environmental laws - Engineering News

CLIMATE CHANGE

Durban unveils low-carbon road map ahead of climate gathering - Engineering News

Business needs stronger voice in global climate negotiations − De Boer - Engineering News

GREEN BUILDING
Greener building techniques begin to gain traction in South Africa - Engineering News

WATER & POWER
SA and Lesotho to build 1 200 MW hydropower plant  - Engineering News

SHALE GAS PROSPECTING IN KAROO
Shabangu extends shale gas prospecting moratorium - Engineering News

NEWS SNIPPETS

CLIMATE CHANGE

Cabinet notes document on national climate change position - Engineering News

Business engaging with government on climate change - Engineering News

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Nersa concurs with renewables bidding process - Engineering News

AUTO INDUSTRY

BMW unveils its electric future; new i8 set to come to JHB motor show - Engineering News

CARBON TAX

UK lobby group urges business carbon price rebate - Engineering News

CARBON CREDITS

Tanzania cookstoves to earn 840 000 voluntary CO2 credits - Engineering News

NEWS SNIPPETS - RENEWABLE ENERGY

Renewables project developers pore over tender documents - Engineering News

Glitches and pleasant surprises as renewables tender gets under way - Engineering News

SA finally sets renewables bidding process in motion - Engineering News

Japan to mull reform of power system, says PM - Engineering News

Suzlon aims to add market share, eyes South Africa - Engineering News

German solar tracking company eyeing SA market - Engineering News

NEWS SNIPPETS - SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

New partnerships needed to meet global sustainability targets − Stigson - Engineering News

Cape Town commercial buildings could improve efficiencies - Engineering News

Sustainable infrastructure seen as core to Joburg's 2040 growth vision - Engineering News

NEWS SNIPPETS - CLIMATE TALKS

Cabinet to consider SA’s COP 17 negotiation stance in Oct - Engineering News

Durban talks unlikely to strike climate deal – UN - Engineering News

Durban COP17 meeting should focus on ‘fair’ climate regime – Molewa - Engineering News 

Greenpeace pushes for nuclear-free power mix, big renewable scale-up

"Nongovernmental organisation (NGO) Greenpeace has called on the government to make “bold and courageous” energy choices, to ensure a cleaner energy future without any additional nuclear and coal-fired power, after construction of the Medupi power station.

This would require a much more ambitious renewable-energy policy, climate campaigner Melita Steele said.

Greenpeace launched its report entitled ‘The advanced energy [R]evolution – a sustainable energy outlook for South Africa’, in Johannesburg on Wednesday, after already having met with Department of Energy (DoE) officials, as well as the Minister, about the report." - Engineering News

GASWALK - Anti-fracking Protest March - Cape Town - 9 August 2011

A group of Capetonians, initiated by renowned photographer Kian Erikson, has organised GASWALK, a protest march against fracking, in partnership with NPOs Climate Justice Campaign and Earthlife Africa CT.

The procession through the streets of Cape Town will take place on Women's Day, August 9, to raise awareness of the threat that fracking poses to the most vulnerable in society, specifically women and children.

The GASWALK will start at 11h00 from the Natural History Museum in the Company Gardens , where participants will gather from 10h30. The route will proceed down Long Street, turn into Strand Street and back to the Company Gardens via Adderley Street. All are welcome.