Monday, April 11, 2011
Organic farmers sue, seek protection from Monsanto
"A consortium of US organic farmers and seed dealers filed a suit against global seed giant Monsanto Co last week, in a move to protect themselves from what they see as a growing threat in the company's arsenal of genetically modified (GM) crops." Legalbrief
Environmental practitioners association launched
"The Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (Eapasa) was launched on Thursday.
Eapasa aims to advance the quality of environmental assessment practice in South Africa by establishing, promoting and maintaining registration of environmental assessment practitioners." Engineering News
Eapasa aims to advance the quality of environmental assessment practice in South Africa by establishing, promoting and maintaining registration of environmental assessment practitioners." Engineering News
Action group wants moratorium on Karoo ‘fracking’ applications
"Treasure the Karoo Action Group (TKAG), an organisation established to promote the environmentally sustainable development of the Karoo, on Tuesday submitted its written objection to energy giant Shell’s application to use hydraulic fracturing (‘fracking’) in its search for shale gas in South Africa.
The group also urged government to put an “immediate end” to not only Shell’s application, but also to decline any future fracking exploration in the Karoo." More, here on Engineering News
The group also urged government to put an “immediate end” to not only Shell’s application, but also to decline any future fracking exploration in the Karoo." More, here on Engineering News
Friday, April 1, 2011
Nedbank opens Africa’s first wind-powered branch
"Wind-powered banking has taken off in Du Noon in the Western Cape, as green banking giant Nedbank launched Africa’s first partially wind-energy powered bank branch, with a price tag “under R200 000”.
The facility makes use of a locally developed Kestrel e300i 1kW turbine, which is expected to reduce Eskom power consumption in the branch by 35%, as it produces an average of 7,8 kWh of wind energy a day." More here, on Engineering News
The facility makes use of a locally developed Kestrel e300i 1kW turbine, which is expected to reduce Eskom power consumption in the branch by 35%, as it produces an average of 7,8 kWh of wind energy a day." More here, on Engineering News
Energy efficiency should be seen as ‘another fuel’ to ensure reliable supply
"Energy efficiency could be the immediate solution to higher energy demand, while renewable energy sources were being considered for long-term energy sustainability, energy experts said on Wednesday." More here on Engineering News
RE Energy Investment in Africa
US agency aims to expand lending to green African projects - Engineering News
$356bn Africa energy investment needed to meet 2030 demand - Engineering News
$356bn Africa energy investment needed to meet 2030 demand - Engineering News
SA's Energy Future
Coal projects brought forward in SA’s approved power plan - Engineering News
Nuclear Forum to accelerate SA debate after Japan crisis - Engineering News
Nuclear Forum to accelerate SA debate after Japan crisis - Engineering News
Thursday, March 31, 2011
South Africans saved 350 MW during Earth Hour – Eskom
If we can collectively make such a difference in an hour, imagine the possibilities of what we can do beyond that (and if EVERYONE took part)!
"South Africans saved 350 MW – enough electricity to power the city of Bloemfontein – when they switched off their lights during Earth Hour this weekend, power utility Eskom said on Tuesday." More on Engineering News
"South Africans saved 350 MW – enough electricity to power the city of Bloemfontein – when they switched off their lights during Earth Hour this weekend, power utility Eskom said on Tuesday." More on Engineering News
Renewable Energy News
AfDB creates $57m Africa renewable energy fund - Engineering News
Group Five hopes to build R5bn solar power plant - Engineering News
Stable policy implementation needed to encourage renewable energy investment - Engineering News
Group Five hopes to build R5bn solar power plant - Engineering News
Stable policy implementation needed to encourage renewable energy investment - Engineering News
China industry ordered to cut CO2 intensity by 18% by 2015
"China, the world's biggest producer of climate-changing greenhouse gases, has pledged to cut carbon produced per unit of GDP by 17% by the end of 2015, with energy intensity also slated to fall 16%.
Much of the burden will be placed on energy-guzzling industrial enterprises like power plants, steel mills, aluminium smelters and cement factories." Read more, here on Engineering News
Much of the burden will be placed on energy-guzzling industrial enterprises like power plants, steel mills, aluminium smelters and cement factories." Read more, here on Engineering News
Monday, March 28, 2011
EU wants no petrol or diesel cars in cities by 2050
"Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas also set out plans to shift half of "middle distance journeys" from road to rail, and to cut shipping emissions by 40%.
He said: "Freedom to travel is a basic right for our citizens. Curbing mobility is not an option. Nor is business is usual."
The proposal would cut carbon emissions by 60% and reduce dependence on oil." BBC News
He said: "Freedom to travel is a basic right for our citizens. Curbing mobility is not an option. Nor is business is usual."
The proposal would cut carbon emissions by 60% and reduce dependence on oil." BBC News
Earth Hour & Earth Day - 2011
Pay a visit to the global Earth Hour website or the Earth Hour website nearest you to see details of participation/events that took place on Saturday, 26th March 2011.
Did you know that 22nd April 2011 is 'Earth Day'? What will you be doing this year to show your support and will your actions expand beyond the scope of these two singled out events? Find out more about 'Earth Day 2011' here.
Did you know that 22nd April 2011 is 'Earth Day'? What will you be doing this year to show your support and will your actions expand beyond the scope of these two singled out events? Find out more about 'Earth Day 2011' here.
Biofuels & Cogeneration
Illovo says may opt to produce biofuels - Engineering News
Ipsa restarts Newcastle cogeneration plant - Engineering News
SA’s jobs push is putting biofuels back on the radar - Engineering News
Ipsa restarts Newcastle cogeneration plant - Engineering News
SA’s jobs push is putting biofuels back on the radar - Engineering News
More reactions to 'trimming' of SA's Renewable Energy Feed In Tariffs
Trimmed Refit unsuitable for immature SA market – global developer - Engineering News
Having risked R400m, wind developers fume at Refit overhaul - Engineering News
Having risked R400m, wind developers fume at Refit overhaul - Engineering News
News Snippets
Stellenbosch University launches water institute - Engineering News
£1,5m UK fund to support SA low-carbon growth, trade projects - Engineering News
IPPs to be key renewables driver, but Eskom to focus on CSP, wind - Engineering News
Wind developers slam Nersa move to slash Refit rates - Engineering News
Rwanda to spend $935m on geothermal power - Engineering News
Groundwater to play a key role in South Africa - WRC - Engineering News
Nersa moves to cut Refit tariffs just as SA promises to boost renewables - Engineering News
SA launches large-scale 'negawatts' campaign amid tight power balance - Engineering News
New think tank Mistra to probe potential benefits of fuel cell for SA - Engineering News
SA’s power market structure to be scrutinised as ISMO Bill is sent to lawmakers - Engineering News
Farmers seek halt on shale gas exploration - Engineering News
Business should aim for deeper engagement in climate talks - Engineering News
Cabinet approves 20-year energy masterplan - Engineering News
Panel stresses importance of changing perceptions about water use - Engineering News
SA moves to finalise carbon tax this year, despite global loose ends - Engineering News
Chinese wind-turbine maker Goldwind sees growth in SA - Engineering News
Eskom sets up renewable energy unit - Engineering News
REEEP to spend €4,5m on clean energy projects in 2011 - Engineering News
Alstom to offer carbon capture technologies commercially from 2015 - Engineering News
NDA invests R3,5m in new KZN farmer's market - Engineering News
Biotechnologies could play a key role in food security – US economist - Engineering News
30c/l levy will cover costs of clean fuels production – Sapia - Engineering News
NGO to host Joburg green economy business briefing next month - Engineering News
Climate change ‘possibly our biggest distraction’ - Wits prof - Engineering News
Shale gas could play key role in clean energy future – Shell - Engineering News
£1,5m UK fund to support SA low-carbon growth, trade projects - Engineering News
IPPs to be key renewables driver, but Eskom to focus on CSP, wind - Engineering News
Wind developers slam Nersa move to slash Refit rates - Engineering News
Rwanda to spend $935m on geothermal power - Engineering News
Groundwater to play a key role in South Africa - WRC - Engineering News
Nersa moves to cut Refit tariffs just as SA promises to boost renewables - Engineering News
SA launches large-scale 'negawatts' campaign amid tight power balance - Engineering News
New think tank Mistra to probe potential benefits of fuel cell for SA - Engineering News
SA’s power market structure to be scrutinised as ISMO Bill is sent to lawmakers - Engineering News
Farmers seek halt on shale gas exploration - Engineering News
Business should aim for deeper engagement in climate talks - Engineering News
Cabinet approves 20-year energy masterplan - Engineering News
Panel stresses importance of changing perceptions about water use - Engineering News
SA moves to finalise carbon tax this year, despite global loose ends - Engineering News
Chinese wind-turbine maker Goldwind sees growth in SA - Engineering News
Eskom sets up renewable energy unit - Engineering News
REEEP to spend €4,5m on clean energy projects in 2011 - Engineering News
Alstom to offer carbon capture technologies commercially from 2015 - Engineering News
NDA invests R3,5m in new KZN farmer's market - Engineering News
Biotechnologies could play a key role in food security – US economist - Engineering News
30c/l levy will cover costs of clean fuels production – Sapia - Engineering News
NGO to host Joburg green economy business briefing next month - Engineering News
Climate change ‘possibly our biggest distraction’ - Wits prof - Engineering News
Shale gas could play key role in clean energy future – Shell - Engineering News
Thursday, March 10, 2011
DoE opts for phased introduction of independent grid operator
This Engineering News article reports: "South Africa’s Department of Energy (DoE) plans to introduce legislation for the establishment of an Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) in the electricity environment during the upcoming Parliamentary cycle and anticipates that the Act will be promulgated by the end of 2011.
Speaking at an energy roundtable this week, deputy director-general for electricity, nuclear and clean energy Ompi Aphane indicated that lawmakers should have sight of the ISMO Establishment Act by June.
However, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters said that the ISMO would seek to “level the playing field and eliminate conflict of interest between the buyer and the seller of electricity"."
But she also stressed that the legislation would incorporate a phased deployment model, adding that there would be no “big bang”. In other words, the Act is likely to outline various stages of independence, beginning with an entity ring-fenced within State-owned power utility Eskom."
Speaking at an energy roundtable this week, deputy director-general for electricity, nuclear and clean energy Ompi Aphane indicated that lawmakers should have sight of the ISMO Establishment Act by June.
However, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters said that the ISMO would seek to “level the playing field and eliminate conflict of interest between the buyer and the seller of electricity"."
But she also stressed that the legislation would incorporate a phased deployment model, adding that there would be no “big bang”. In other words, the Act is likely to outline various stages of independence, beginning with an entity ring-fenced within State-owned power utility Eskom."
News Snippets
Kenya seeks investors for 800 MW geothermal plants - Engineering News
Logistics sector needs to make big carbon inroads, survey asserts - Engineering News
Cost-recovery mechanism flagged, as SA unveils cleaner fuels vision - Engineering News
SA solar water heater market poised for strong growth - Engineering News
Durban meeting should highlight effect of climate change on Africa - Engineering News
UN postpones 'green fund' climate talks to April - Engineering News
Logistics sector needs to make big carbon inroads, survey asserts - Engineering News
Cost-recovery mechanism flagged, as SA unveils cleaner fuels vision - Engineering News
SA solar water heater market poised for strong growth - Engineering News
Durban meeting should highlight effect of climate change on Africa - Engineering News
UN postpones 'green fund' climate talks to April - Engineering News
Friday, March 4, 2011
Home brewed - New clothing shop in Cape Town
Urban Sprout reports here: "Home Brewed is an eco friendly and proudly local clothing store in Cape Town that recently opened their first concept store at the Palymyra Junction in Claremont. What sets this company apart from others is their conscious decision to do things differently: instead of following the textile industry norms of exploiting workers, out-sourcing labour and compromising quality for quantity, Home Brewed has chosen to manufacture ethically while investing in South Africa."
Not so 'free range' after all?
An interesting article by Muriel Gravenor about Fair Cape Free RangeTM milk.
Parliamentary hearings on climate Green Paper get under way
"Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs on Thursday started its public hearings on the Climate Change Green Paper, in Cape Town.
Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa released the draft climate change policy late last year.
During the public hearings, there will be input from experts on scientific data and statistics relevant to climate change and a presentation from the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) on the challenges which have arisen since the consultation process.
The public hearings will run until the end of the month." Engineering News
Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa released the draft climate change policy late last year.
During the public hearings, there will be input from experts on scientific data and statistics relevant to climate change and a presentation from the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) on the challenges which have arisen since the consultation process.
The public hearings will run until the end of the month." Engineering News
Eskom ready to connect and pay IPPs
"State-owned power utility Eskom was ready to connect and pay renewable energy independent power producers (IPPs), and wanted to do this “as soon as possible”, said operations and planning division MD Kannan Lakmeeharan." More on Engineering News
Eskom makes case for mandatory power saving
"Despite opposition from many energy-intensive companies in South Africa, power utility Eskom was still recommending that the country’s top 500 consumers sign on to a mandatory Energy Conservation Scheme (ECS), which would only be activated during times of crisis." More on Engineering News
MTN forms e-waste disposal partnership with German group
"Mobile telecommunications (telecoms) provider MTN, and German sustainable development organisation Gesellschaft fuer Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) have signed a development partnership for a pilot project to manage the safe disposal of electronic waste (ewaste) and to encourage enterprise development for ewaste handlers." More on Engineering News
Reunert enters renewable energy business
"Electronics and electrical engineering company Reunert has entered the renewable energy arena in South Africa and would offer project management solutions to Eskom and independent power producers (IPPs) looking to build renewable energy plants." More on Engineering News
2011 Budget Highlights
10 things you never knew about the 2011 budget - Read more here on Urban Sprout
Carbon tax design and schedule to be outlined in 2012 Budget - Engineering News
R66m for new energy-efficiency R&D institute, R800m for green economy - "Government set aside R66,5-million in its 2011 Budget for the establishment of the ‘South African Energy Development Institute’, which will conduct research and development (R&D) into energy-efficiency technologies and solutions." Engineering News
Gordhan allocates R225m to deal with acid mine water - Engineering News
Carbon tax design and schedule to be outlined in 2012 Budget - Engineering News
R66m for new energy-efficiency R&D institute, R800m for green economy - "Government set aside R66,5-million in its 2011 Budget for the establishment of the ‘South African Energy Development Institute’, which will conduct research and development (R&D) into energy-efficiency technologies and solutions." Engineering News
Gordhan allocates R225m to deal with acid mine water - Engineering News
Cabinet approves acid mine drainage report
"The South African Cabinet has approved the recommendations made by a team of experts on the acid mine drainage (AMD) situation in the Witwatersrand, spokesperson Jimmy Manyi said on Tuesday.
The report, which includes recommendations on control measures to reduce the rate of flooding and the eventual decanting and pumping volume, would be made publicly available on Thursday." More on Engineering News
The report, which includes recommendations on control measures to reduce the rate of flooding and the eventual decanting and pumping volume, would be made publicly available on Thursday." More on Engineering News
US sees major emitters setting own climate goals
"Major greenhouse gas emitters should set voluntary curbs on emissions for the time being since a UN climate treaty looks out of reach in 2011, the US climate envoy said on Monday." Read more, on Engineering News
Investing in greener economy could spur growth – UN
Engineering News reports: "Channelling 2%, or $1,3-trillion, of global gross domestic product into greening sectors such as construction, energy and fishing could start a move toward a low-carbon world, a report launched on Monday said.
The investment would expand the global economy at the same rate, if not higher, as under present economic policies, said the report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
"Investing 2% of global GDP into 10 key sectors can kick-start a transition towards a low-carbon world," the Nairobi-based agency said in a statement."
The investment would expand the global economy at the same rate, if not higher, as under present economic policies, said the report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
"Investing 2% of global GDP into 10 key sectors can kick-start a transition towards a low-carbon world," the Nairobi-based agency said in a statement."
IFC finalising new sustainability framework as it moves to upscale African activities
"The International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is a leading private-sector development finance partner in Africa, will include new guidelines on climate change, human rights and supply-chain risks in an updated environmental and social policy framework, which should be finalised by midyear." Engineering News
IDC allocates R25bn for green economy investments
This Engineering News report informs us: "State-owned development finance institution the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) would allocate R25-billion to investments in the ‘green’ economy over the next five years, Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel said on Tuesday.
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is expected to announce further financial commitments in next week’s Budget, to promote opportunities in this sector.
The green economy forms part of the key sectors identified in the New Growth Path as having the potential to unlock employment opportunities. The economic plan aims to grow employment by five-million jobs by 2020, 30 000 of which could be delivered by the green economy."
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is expected to announce further financial commitments in next week’s Budget, to promote opportunities in this sector.
The green economy forms part of the key sectors identified in the New Growth Path as having the potential to unlock employment opportunities. The economic plan aims to grow employment by five-million jobs by 2020, 30 000 of which could be delivered by the green economy."
Eskom has capacity to add 4 159 MW of private power to grid
This Engineering News article reports: "State-owned power utility Eskom said that it had capacity to add some 4 159 MW of new power generation from independent power producers (IPPs) to the national grid by 2012.
This capacity could be brought on line in the areas of the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Eastern Cape, which were the three provinces where Eskom’s studies were concentrated. It was expected that there would be demand for the connection of renewable energy generation in these areas."
This capacity could be brought on line in the areas of the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Eastern Cape, which were the three provinces where Eskom’s studies were concentrated. It was expected that there would be demand for the connection of renewable energy generation in these areas."
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Renewables could supply global energy demand by 2050 – report
"The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) on Thursday released ‘The Energy Report’, in which it said that it was possible for 100% of the globe’s energy needs to be supplied through cleaner renewable energy technologies by 2050.
This, argued the report, could be done economically, and that nearly €4-trillion a year could be saved through energy efficiency and reduced fuel costs by 2050." Engineering News
This, argued the report, could be done economically, and that nearly €4-trillion a year could be saved through energy efficiency and reduced fuel costs by 2050." Engineering News
News Snippets
DEA urges industry to comment on climate policy - Engineering News
Renewed call for cleaner fuels ahead of double-cab carbon tax - Engineering News
New rules for waste collection come into effect - Engineering News
DA calls for moratorium on Karoo gas exploration - Engineering News
Shell promises to incorporate environmental concerns in Karoo plan - Engineering News
SA faces big bill, big tests as climate talks head for Durban - Engineering News
IFC invests €150m in post-2012 carbon credits fund - Engineering News
Renewed call for cleaner fuels ahead of double-cab carbon tax - Engineering News
New rules for waste collection come into effect - Engineering News
DA calls for moratorium on Karoo gas exploration - Engineering News
Shell promises to incorporate environmental concerns in Karoo plan - Engineering News
SA faces big bill, big tests as climate talks head for Durban - Engineering News
IFC invests €150m in post-2012 carbon credits fund - Engineering News
Thursday, January 27, 2011
News Snippets
Eskom aims to have 925 000 SWHs installed by 2013 - Engineering News
Obama sets 2035 clean electricity target - Engineering News. Obama classifies "nuclear, 'clean coal', and natural gas" as "clean energy".
SA construction firms starting to focus on green practices - Engineering News
Zuma to set the scene for Durban climate meeting at WEF - Engineering News
SA economy perfectly placed to deal with climate change challenges - This Engineering News article has an error in it's title. After reading the article, I concluded that the SA economy is perfectly placed to deal with climate change challenges. The question is are our leaders?
Obama sets 2035 clean electricity target - Engineering News. Obama classifies "nuclear, 'clean coal', and natural gas" as "clean energy".
SA construction firms starting to focus on green practices - Engineering News
Zuma to set the scene for Durban climate meeting at WEF - Engineering News
SA economy perfectly placed to deal with climate change challenges - This Engineering News article has an error in it's title. After reading the article, I concluded that the SA economy is perfectly placed to deal with climate change challenges. The question is are our leaders?
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Bushmen's legal fight for right to water
"On January 17th, Botswana’s Court of Appeal will begin a hearing to decide whether Kalahari Bushmen living on their ancestral lands have the right to water.
The Bushmen, who returned to their lands in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve after a previous court victory, are appealing against a 2010 High Court ruling that denied their right to access a well in the reserve they had used for decades." Times Live
The Bushmen, who returned to their lands in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve after a previous court victory, are appealing against a 2010 High Court ruling that denied their right to access a well in the reserve they had used for decades." Times Live
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Celebrities voice opposition to forests privatisation
"Several public figures, including the Archbishop of Canterbury and Dame Judi Dench, have urged the government not to sell off England's forests." BBC News
Nuclear-free energy-mix scenario to be published in Feb, DoE confirms
"The South African Department of Energy’s (DoE’s) exercise to model an energy-mix scenario that entirely excludes nuclear should be complete by the middle of February, deputy director-general for electricity, nuclear and clean energy Ompi Aphane tells Engineering News Online.
The results will be published as part of the release of the final integrated resource plan (IRP) document and the outcome “will be taken into consideration in the determination of the risk-adjusted plan”." Engineering News
The results will be published as part of the release of the final integrated resource plan (IRP) document and the outcome “will be taken into consideration in the determination of the risk-adjusted plan”." Engineering News
Enlarged Bric bloc to prioritise energy security, says India
This is an interesting article which speaks of India's growing energy requirements and what they plan to do. More interestingly, it speaks of South Africa's inclusion in BRIC ("the BRIC countries" or known as the "Big Four") is a grouping acronym that refers to the countries of Brazil, Russia, India, and China that are deemed to all be at a similar stage of newly advanced economic development." Wikipedia) [Now BRICS]. Read more about BRIC here (Wikipedia)- refer subheading 'BRICS Term: South Africa's Inclusion' and 'Criticism'. The Engineering News article can be read here.
Neotel says fibre-optic project meets environmental requirements
"Telecommunications provider Neotel has stated that it complied with necessary environmental legislation requirements when conducting infrastructure roll-out projects, and has ensured that its subcontractors also comply with environmental authorisations." Engineering News
SA should realistically manage Durban climate meeting expectations
"The eyes of the world would look upon Durban in December, when South Africa hosts the global climate change negotiations, but the country would need to realistically manage expectations regarding what could emerge from the conference." Engineering News
US Ex-Im Bank urged to deny funding to Kusile power project
"An environmental group is urging a US government-funded bank to deny finance to South Africa’s coal-fired Kusile power-station project, Milwaukee’s Journal Sentinal reports." Engineering News
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Air Pollution
As a resident of Cape Town, it has become increasingly disturbing to me to witness the extent of the air pollution hanging over our beautiful city on windless days. The problem is more apparent in winter when there is less wind. Friends living in Johannesburg who visited recently even noticed it but commented that it was not nearly as bad as Johannesburg.
This Urbansprout article informs us of the 'state of the air' in Hong Kong. Air Pollution is such a big problem there that warnings are issued! Read more, here on Urbansprout
When will we start taking the problem seriously in South Africa? Are we going to wait until we also have to wear masks? China is currently the leader in renewable energy investment/development. You can see they have had a wake up call and are now aggressively pursuing alternatives to fossil fuels.
This Urbansprout article informs us of the 'state of the air' in Hong Kong. Air Pollution is such a big problem there that warnings are issued! Read more, here on Urbansprout
When will we start taking the problem seriously in South Africa? Are we going to wait until we also have to wear masks? China is currently the leader in renewable energy investment/development. You can see they have had a wake up call and are now aggressively pursuing alternatives to fossil fuels.
Eskom and Neotel found guilty of environmental noncompliance
"The Environmental Management Inspectorate (EMI), known as the Green Scorpions, found that Eskom and Neotel were guilty of non-compliance at certain of their projects in Limpopo, as the EMI continued its national environmental law compliance inspections." More here, on Engineering News
Re-gear science and technology to tackle climate change – King
"Science and technology will have to be re-geared to meet global challenges, and this would require overcoming a technological and institutional inertia which existed, said former scientific adviser to the British government, Sir David King." Engineering News
SA saves 1 800 MW through energy efficient lighting – Eskom
"South Africa has saved 1 800 MW of electricity – enough to power a city the size of Durban – through retrofitting power-guzzling incandescent bulbs with energy savers, power utility Eskom said on Monday." Engineering News
Sunday, January 16, 2011
UK Eco trial collapses
"The trial of six green campaigners, accused of trying to shut down Ratcliffe-on-Soar, one of Britain's biggest power stations, collapsed yesterday amid claims that an undercover policeman offered to give evidence on their behalf." Legalbrief
SA scientists seek backers for trash-to-energy innovation
"Scientists and engineers at the University of the Witwatersrand, in Johannesburg, have developed a hybrid energy solution, based on the Fischer-Tropsch (FT) chemical process, which could be deployed at municipal rubbish dumps to produce both electricity and transport fuels from fresh garbage." Read more here, on Engineering News
DEA to host provincial climate policy workshops
"Provincial public consultation workshops will be hosted on South Africa’s draft National Climate Change Response Green Paper, which was released in November, the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) announced at the weekend.
The workshops, which would kick off in the Western Cape on January 17 and conclude in Gauteng on February 4, formed part of a public participation process that would help inform the final policy, which was anticipated by mid-2011." Engineering News
The workshops, which would kick off in the Western Cape on January 17 and conclude in Gauteng on February 4, formed part of a public participation process that would help inform the final policy, which was anticipated by mid-2011." Engineering News
Thursday, January 13, 2011
SA lawmakers seek public input on climate change policy
"South Africa’s Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Water and Environmental Affairs has called for public input on the country’s draft climate change policy, currently still a Green Paper, ahead of Parliamentary hearings into the proposed policy in February or early March 2011." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Green Trends for 2011
Urban Sprout reviews JWT's trendwatching report: 100 Things to Watch in 2011. On the top of Urban Sprout's list is Biomimicry. Read more here, on Urban Sprout.
Children's rights argument to bolster environmental case
This Legalbrief article reports: "The rights of children to cultural identity is one of the arguments that will be used in an expanded legal battle to save the Mapungubwe region from mining.
This marks the first time an environmental case seeks to protect the rights of children under Section 24 of the Constitution, says a report in The Citizen. The University of Pretoria's Centre for Child Law (CCL) has made an application to intervene as amicus curiae in the interdict application which has resulted from the granting of mining rights to Limpopo Coal in Mapungubwe. The CCL is arguing the coal mining operations in Mapungubwe, with the resulting environmental impacts, would infringe on future generations' rights to experience the region's cultural and natural wealth. They are arguing that the right to preservation of the environment is inextricably linked with children's rights to cultural identity, the protection and preservation of African culture and respect for the natural environment - both in international and regional law." Source: Legalbrief/The Citizen
This marks the first time an environmental case seeks to protect the rights of children under Section 24 of the Constitution, says a report in The Citizen. The University of Pretoria's Centre for Child Law (CCL) has made an application to intervene as amicus curiae in the interdict application which has resulted from the granting of mining rights to Limpopo Coal in Mapungubwe. The CCL is arguing the coal mining operations in Mapungubwe, with the resulting environmental impacts, would infringe on future generations' rights to experience the region's cultural and natural wealth. They are arguing that the right to preservation of the environment is inextricably linked with children's rights to cultural identity, the protection and preservation of African culture and respect for the natural environment - both in international and regional law." Source: Legalbrief/The Citizen
Thursday, December 16, 2010
News Snippets
Some recent news snippets [Source: Engineering News]:-
Commerce
More companies adopting sustainability strategies – survey
Green Scorpions finds noncompliance at EnviroServ
Carbon Tax
Carbon tax discussion paper published for comment
Cabinet approves draft carbon tax policy
SA's Draft Irp2010 / SA's Energy Future
S&P’s downgrades Eskom, warns risks still to the downside
Renewable energy investors show strong interest in SA’s Refit opportunity
Up to R15bn needed to revive nuclear enrichment in SA
Eskom calls for structured implementation of IRP2010
Climate Talks
Climate talks end with modest steps, no Kyoto deal
New climate battle looms in South Africa in 2011
UN must change tack in climate talks, ex-official argues
World Bank to launch carbon trading fund, other climate initiatives
SA seeks to mainstream climate change response, but obligations remain fuzzy
Farming must wait in line at stalled climate talks
ICT can play key role in reducing emissions
Transport
Nissan’s electric Leaf could come to SA in 2012, but would require govt incentives
SA emission-cutting ignition technology ready to go global
Mercedes-Benz to push more low-emission Euro V trucks into the market
Cogeneration
Assmang invites power plant bids for Machado, eyes Cato
Commerce
More companies adopting sustainability strategies – survey
Green Scorpions finds noncompliance at EnviroServ
Carbon Tax
Carbon tax discussion paper published for comment
Cabinet approves draft carbon tax policy
SA's Draft Irp2010 / SA's Energy Future
S&P’s downgrades Eskom, warns risks still to the downside
Renewable energy investors show strong interest in SA’s Refit opportunity
Up to R15bn needed to revive nuclear enrichment in SA
Eskom calls for structured implementation of IRP2010
Climate Talks
Climate talks end with modest steps, no Kyoto deal
New climate battle looms in South Africa in 2011
UN must change tack in climate talks, ex-official argues
World Bank to launch carbon trading fund, other climate initiatives
SA seeks to mainstream climate change response, but obligations remain fuzzy
Farming must wait in line at stalled climate talks
ICT can play key role in reducing emissions
Transport
Nissan’s electric Leaf could come to SA in 2012, but would require govt incentives
SA emission-cutting ignition technology ready to go global
Mercedes-Benz to push more low-emission Euro V trucks into the market
Cogeneration
Assmang invites power plant bids for Machado, eyes Cato
Friday, December 3, 2010
SA Energy Future: Irp2010 Talks
SA mulls power scenario that excludes nuclear, but moves ahead with 10-GW fleet planning - Engineering News
IRP2010’s plans for renewable capacity ‘ambitious’ – energy economist - Engineering News
IPPs keen to invest but more policy clarity needed - Engineering News
SA energy plan needs more private power – Anglo - Engineering News
IRP2010’s plans for renewable capacity ‘ambitious’ – energy economist - Engineering News
IPPs keen to invest but more policy clarity needed - Engineering News
SA energy plan needs more private power – Anglo - Engineering News
Cancun Climate Talks
UN climate talks struggle to overhaul carbon trade - Engineering News
UN climate talks seek to define rich, poor duties - Engineering News
UN urges global switch to low-energy lightbulbs - Engineering News
UN climate talks seek to define rich, poor duties - Engineering News
UN urges global switch to low-energy lightbulbs - Engineering News
IRP2010 Process - Did you know?
Check out this interesting article on Urban Sprout.
Extract:
"Over the last year, it has been revealed that Eskom has been supplying electricity to BHP Billiton at rates below cost, which means that South African taxpayers have been subsidising one of the world’s biggest and most profitable mining companies. This contract was concluded at a time when Eskom had so much surplus generation capacity that it was desperately looking for opportunities to sell that surplus."
Extract:
"Over the last year, it has been revealed that Eskom has been supplying electricity to BHP Billiton at rates below cost, which means that South African taxpayers have been subsidising one of the world’s biggest and most profitable mining companies. This contract was concluded at a time when Eskom had so much surplus generation capacity that it was desperately looking for opportunities to sell that surplus."
Solar association calls for 2 GW of CSP in SA’s 20-year power plan
"The Southern Africa Solar Thermal and Electricity Association (Sastela) has urged the South African government to allocate at least 2 GW of power generation capacity to concentrated solar power (CSP) by 2020, under the second integrated resource plan, or IRP2010." Engineering News
eARTh Big Pictures
Check out the pics of the recently organised 350.org's "eARTh" day. A day on which thousands of people from across the world got together to create 'Art' visible from space/the sky to raise awareness about climate change.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Carbo Consult scoops F&S technology innovation award
"Renewable energy company Carbo Consult Engineering was lauded at Frost & Sullivan’s (F&S’s) third yearly African Excellence Awards, when it scooped the 2010 South African Biomass Gasification Technology Innovation Leadership Award." - Engineering News
Friday, November 26, 2010
LOTS HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND!
This Saturday features a triple bill of cool events for those interested in a bit of planet preservation. Urban Sprout
The Hout Bay Green Faire
and
350.org's solar picnic in Khayelitsha - The world's largest solar picnic is happening this Saturday 27 November so if you live in Cape Town come and be part of it! (Urban Sprout)
and
Buy Nothing Day - Buy Nothing Day is about keeping out of the malls and refraining from consumptive behaviour. (Urban Sprout)
The Hout Bay Green Faire
and
350.org's solar picnic in Khayelitsha - The world's largest solar picnic is happening this Saturday 27 November so if you live in Cape Town come and be part of it! (Urban Sprout)
and
Buy Nothing Day - Buy Nothing Day is about keeping out of the malls and refraining from consumptive behaviour. (Urban Sprout)
Catching up on News!
BUSINESS
Imperial to roll out nitrogen refrigeration to Durban, more of Gauteng - Engineering News
Isuzu Motors boss calls for more local content on SA-made trucks and bakkies - Engineering News
Gold Fields, First Rand share top spot in carbon disclosure index - Engineering News
Property lagging other sectors in carbon disclosure - Engineering News
Pretoria mall achieves Green Star SA design rating - Engineering News
Standard Bank head office gets R2,3m solar hybrid water-heating system- Engineering News
Eskom Placed Third in sustainability reporting awards - Engineering News
Eskom placed third in sustainability reporting awards - Engineering News
Consulting engineers call for incentives to lower power use - Engineering News
French company to establish sustainable clean energy model for rural SA - Engineering News
Joburg Pick n Pay store installs 100-kW solar PV system - Engineering News
BMW South Africa invests in solar water heating system - Engineering News
TRANSPORT
GE to buy 25 000 electric vehicles by 2015 - Engineering News
Nissan in talks with government to introduce electric vehicle in SA - Engineering News
Mazda announces technology breakthrough which will deliver 30 km/l fuel consumption - Engineering News
SA should reduce carbon emissions from road transport – Cronin - Engineering News
Peugeot's new concept to demonstrate possibilities of electric cars - Engineering News
Woolworths starts nitrogen refrigeration truck trial - Engineering News
MAN's Concept S promises to use 25% less fuel - Engineering News
WASTE
Eleven people and four companies have been successfully prosecuted for illegally exporting electrical waste from the UK to West Africa, says an Earthtimes report. - Legalbrief
WTO says 32 states took anti-dumping actions in H1 - Engineering News
Report on acid water presented to Ministers - Engineering News
SA waste management strategy making progress - Engineering News
SA SOLAR CHALLENGE
Record-breaking Japanese team takes second SA Solar Challenge crown - Engineering News
ENERGY
China and Botswana sign economic, energy deals - Engineering News
Developer initiates study into $330m Moz bioenergy project - Engineering News
SADC power future lies in alternatives – Nersa - Engineering News
End of coal power in W Europe if carbon capture fails – IEA - Engineering News
SA, China sign trade, energy deals - Engineering News
SA energy conference to host WEC Africa meeting - Engineering News
Energy efficiency innovation rewarded - Engineering News
Western Cape launches GreenCape initiative - Engineering News
Clean Technology Fund to invest $85m in SA - Engineering News
China could soon be undisputed clean energy leader - report - Engineering News
Clean energy poised for strong growth in sub-Saharan Africa - Engineering News
SA ENERGY PLAN
R15bn DBSA loan another key step in closing Eskom's funding gap - Engineering News
Eskom to publish grid-connection road map by year-end - Engineering News
Wind scale-up in IRP2010 sufficient to spur localisation - DoE - Engineering News
DoE extends IRP comment period, announces hearings schedule - Engineering News
Power plan clings to pragmatism over ambition - Engineering News
Nersa asked to host provincial IRP2010 road shows - Engineering News
Despite geological limitations, SA begins to weigh its geothermal options - Engineering News
Civil society requests more IRP2010 comment time - Engineering News
WIND
Exxaro expects first output from West Coast wind farm in 2012 - Engineering News
BIOMASS
EECOfuels launches biomass-powered gasification plant - Engineering News
Biomass gasification seen as attractive private power option - Engineering News
Eskom to tap $1bn from World Bank - Engineering News
DoE recommends 'balanced' scenario in 20-year power plan - Engineering News
Proximity to grid should be a key selection criterion, Eskom argues - Engineering News
SOLAR
SA signs $435m solar deal with Yingli - Engineering News
BBE Energy builds locally developed linear Fresnel CSP plant - Engineering News
Africa to be world's largest market for solar lighting by 2015 - Engineering News
French firm targets telecoms sector with hybrid power solution - Engineering News
Solar park conference draws interest, but more clarity sought - Engineering News
SA wants Upington to be world’s ‘solar capital’ - Engineering News
DoE starts talks with investors on Upington Solar Park - Engineering News
Solar park not out in the cold, government insists - Engineering News
US firm to develop master plan for Upington solar park - Engineering News
Higher rebates spur interest in solar water heating – Eskom - Engineering News
Renewable energy advocate Hermann Scheer dies - Engineering News
WATER
Eskom teams up with WRC on water-for-energy R&D - Engineering News
BAMBOO
IDC to study SA's bamboo-related manufacturing prospects - Engineering News
CONSTRUCTION
‘Greener’ construction needed to support emerging market needs - Engineering News
Cement firm’s carbon reduction efforts acknowledged - Engineering News
CLIMATE POLICY
China says it is world's top greenhouse gas emitter - Engineering News
SA business leaders add voice to calls for climate change progress - Engineering News
Cancun unlikely to deliver global climate deal – SA lead negotiator - Engineering News
UNFCCC climate conference to be held in Durban next year - Engineering News
Cabinet approves draft climate policy - Engineering News
Imperial to roll out nitrogen refrigeration to Durban, more of Gauteng - Engineering News
Isuzu Motors boss calls for more local content on SA-made trucks and bakkies - Engineering News
Gold Fields, First Rand share top spot in carbon disclosure index - Engineering News
Property lagging other sectors in carbon disclosure - Engineering News
Pretoria mall achieves Green Star SA design rating - Engineering News
Standard Bank head office gets R2,3m solar hybrid water-heating system- Engineering News
Eskom Placed Third in sustainability reporting awards - Engineering News
Eskom placed third in sustainability reporting awards - Engineering News
Consulting engineers call for incentives to lower power use - Engineering News
French company to establish sustainable clean energy model for rural SA - Engineering News
Joburg Pick n Pay store installs 100-kW solar PV system - Engineering News
BMW South Africa invests in solar water heating system - Engineering News
TRANSPORT
GE to buy 25 000 electric vehicles by 2015 - Engineering News
Nissan in talks with government to introduce electric vehicle in SA - Engineering News
Mazda announces technology breakthrough which will deliver 30 km/l fuel consumption - Engineering News
SA should reduce carbon emissions from road transport – Cronin - Engineering News
Peugeot's new concept to demonstrate possibilities of electric cars - Engineering News
Woolworths starts nitrogen refrigeration truck trial - Engineering News
MAN's Concept S promises to use 25% less fuel - Engineering News
WASTE
Eleven people and four companies have been successfully prosecuted for illegally exporting electrical waste from the UK to West Africa, says an Earthtimes report. - Legalbrief
WTO says 32 states took anti-dumping actions in H1 - Engineering News
Report on acid water presented to Ministers - Engineering News
SA waste management strategy making progress - Engineering News
SA SOLAR CHALLENGE
Record-breaking Japanese team takes second SA Solar Challenge crown - Engineering News
ENERGY
China and Botswana sign economic, energy deals - Engineering News
Developer initiates study into $330m Moz bioenergy project - Engineering News
SADC power future lies in alternatives – Nersa - Engineering News
End of coal power in W Europe if carbon capture fails – IEA - Engineering News
SA, China sign trade, energy deals - Engineering News
SA energy conference to host WEC Africa meeting - Engineering News
Energy efficiency innovation rewarded - Engineering News
Western Cape launches GreenCape initiative - Engineering News
Clean Technology Fund to invest $85m in SA - Engineering News
China could soon be undisputed clean energy leader - report - Engineering News
Clean energy poised for strong growth in sub-Saharan Africa - Engineering News
SA ENERGY PLAN
R15bn DBSA loan another key step in closing Eskom's funding gap - Engineering News
Eskom to publish grid-connection road map by year-end - Engineering News
Wind scale-up in IRP2010 sufficient to spur localisation - DoE - Engineering News
DoE extends IRP comment period, announces hearings schedule - Engineering News
Power plan clings to pragmatism over ambition - Engineering News
Nersa asked to host provincial IRP2010 road shows - Engineering News
Despite geological limitations, SA begins to weigh its geothermal options - Engineering News
Civil society requests more IRP2010 comment time - Engineering News
WIND
Exxaro expects first output from West Coast wind farm in 2012 - Engineering News
BIOMASS
EECOfuels launches biomass-powered gasification plant - Engineering News
Biomass gasification seen as attractive private power option - Engineering News
Eskom to tap $1bn from World Bank - Engineering News
DoE recommends 'balanced' scenario in 20-year power plan - Engineering News
Proximity to grid should be a key selection criterion, Eskom argues - Engineering News
SOLAR
SA signs $435m solar deal with Yingli - Engineering News
BBE Energy builds locally developed linear Fresnel CSP plant - Engineering News
Africa to be world's largest market for solar lighting by 2015 - Engineering News
French firm targets telecoms sector with hybrid power solution - Engineering News
Solar park conference draws interest, but more clarity sought - Engineering News
SA wants Upington to be world’s ‘solar capital’ - Engineering News
DoE starts talks with investors on Upington Solar Park - Engineering News
Solar park not out in the cold, government insists - Engineering News
US firm to develop master plan for Upington solar park - Engineering News
Higher rebates spur interest in solar water heating – Eskom - Engineering News
Renewable energy advocate Hermann Scheer dies - Engineering News
WATER
Eskom teams up with WRC on water-for-energy R&D - Engineering News
BAMBOO
IDC to study SA's bamboo-related manufacturing prospects - Engineering News
CONSTRUCTION
‘Greener’ construction needed to support emerging market needs - Engineering News
Cement firm’s carbon reduction efforts acknowledged - Engineering News
CLIMATE POLICY
China says it is world's top greenhouse gas emitter - Engineering News
SA business leaders add voice to calls for climate change progress - Engineering News
Cancun unlikely to deliver global climate deal – SA lead negotiator - Engineering News
UNFCCC climate conference to be held in Durban next year - Engineering News
Cabinet approves draft climate policy - Engineering News
Monday, October 4, 2010
help us to help the govt to help all of us go solar
To find out more, visit Urban Sprout or sign the petition here.
News Snippets
Menlyn Maine co-sponsors green building rating tool - Engineering News
Sun farm construction could start in 2012 – Hogan - Engineering News
Sonjica and MECs set environmental goals - Engineering News
Eskom is designated buyer of initial renewable power, DoE confirms - Engineering News
Govt takes another step towards purchase of private power - Engineering News
Measurement package of SA wind atlas project launched - Engineering News
Strong grid-connection demand from renewable project developers - Engineering News
First solar park deals possible in early 2011, first power by end 2012 - Engineering News
SA partners with Denmark and Mexico to push for climate consensus - Engineering News
Green Scorpions start environmental compliance inspections - Engineering News
Advisers to assist in renewable energy power purchase programme - Engineering News
Western Cape nature reserve installs solar power - Engineering News
Sasol says it is ready to produce ‘greener’ fuels, but requires regulatory certainty - Engineering News
Teams wish for sunny skies as Solar Challenge starts - Engineering News
Mix of technologies sought for first phase of Upington solar park - Engineering News
Avis to sponsor Solar Challenge as part of its sustainability drive - Engineering News
Eskom technical team to review Koeberg contamination incident - Engineering News
Two SA properties receive Green Star ratings - Engineering News
Govt and private sector should join hands to drive green building - Engineering News
Robben Island may get solar power plant - Engineering News
Bisignani reaffirms airlines' commitment to reduce emissions - Engineering News
Extrupet upgrades plant as demand for recycled food-grade PET grows - Engineering News
SA's energy future 'bound up' with coal - Engineering News
Sun farm construction could start in 2012 – Hogan - Engineering News
Sonjica and MECs set environmental goals - Engineering News
Eskom is designated buyer of initial renewable power, DoE confirms - Engineering News
Govt takes another step towards purchase of private power - Engineering News
Measurement package of SA wind atlas project launched - Engineering News
Strong grid-connection demand from renewable project developers - Engineering News
First solar park deals possible in early 2011, first power by end 2012 - Engineering News
SA partners with Denmark and Mexico to push for climate consensus - Engineering News
Green Scorpions start environmental compliance inspections - Engineering News
Advisers to assist in renewable energy power purchase programme - Engineering News
Western Cape nature reserve installs solar power - Engineering News
Sasol says it is ready to produce ‘greener’ fuels, but requires regulatory certainty - Engineering News
Teams wish for sunny skies as Solar Challenge starts - Engineering News
Mix of technologies sought for first phase of Upington solar park - Engineering News
Avis to sponsor Solar Challenge as part of its sustainability drive - Engineering News
Eskom technical team to review Koeberg contamination incident - Engineering News
Two SA properties receive Green Star ratings - Engineering News
Govt and private sector should join hands to drive green building - Engineering News
Robben Island may get solar power plant - Engineering News
Bisignani reaffirms airlines' commitment to reduce emissions - Engineering News
Extrupet upgrades plant as demand for recycled food-grade PET grows - Engineering News
SA's energy future 'bound up' with coal - Engineering News
Friday, September 17, 2010
News Snippets
Eskom inks emission credits purchase deal with BNP Paribas - Engineering News
MTN rolling out ‘green’ base stations in rural SA - Engineering News
R150bn Upington solar park project considered by Cabinet - Engineering News
US agency supports eThekwini smart-metering study - Engineering News
Environmental Affairs Minister warns polluters will pay- Engineering News
SA biofuel output seen at 300m litres a year - Engineering News
Gauteng company to start producing emission-busting AdBlue in 2011 - Engineering News
Second SA Solar Challenge to start next week - Engineering News
Ipsa plans to sell carbon credits from Newcastle plant - Engineering News
SA power market too large for only one player - Engineering News
Creation of fully functional ISMO could take 10 years - Engineering News
Cogeneration to feature prominently in IRP2010 – Hogan - Engineering News
R30m initiative unveiled to improve water provision at schools - Engineering News
Regulatory and policy hurdles still blocking large-scale renewables roll-out - Engineering News
Newly launched atlas identifies viable sites for SA carbon storage - Engineering News
Eskom gets set to open bidding process for 1 025 MW of renewables - Engineering News
Govt to host big solar investor conference in Upington - Engineering News
Aveng's new renewables unit may participate in project funding - Engineering News
Comprehensive energy efficiency retrofit delivers savings – Honeywell - Engineering News
MTN rolling out ‘green’ base stations in rural SA - Engineering News
R150bn Upington solar park project considered by Cabinet - Engineering News
US agency supports eThekwini smart-metering study - Engineering News
Environmental Affairs Minister warns polluters will pay- Engineering News
SA biofuel output seen at 300m litres a year - Engineering News
Gauteng company to start producing emission-busting AdBlue in 2011 - Engineering News
Second SA Solar Challenge to start next week - Engineering News
Ipsa plans to sell carbon credits from Newcastle plant - Engineering News
SA power market too large for only one player - Engineering News
Creation of fully functional ISMO could take 10 years - Engineering News
Cogeneration to feature prominently in IRP2010 – Hogan - Engineering News
R30m initiative unveiled to improve water provision at schools - Engineering News
Regulatory and policy hurdles still blocking large-scale renewables roll-out - Engineering News
Newly launched atlas identifies viable sites for SA carbon storage - Engineering News
Eskom gets set to open bidding process for 1 025 MW of renewables - Engineering News
Govt to host big solar investor conference in Upington - Engineering News
Aveng's new renewables unit may participate in project funding - Engineering News
Comprehensive energy efficiency retrofit delivers savings – Honeywell - Engineering News
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Demand for biofuels drives African 'land grabs'
Legalbrief recently reported: "Biofuel demand is driving a new 'land grab' in Africa, with at least 5m hectares acquired by foreign firms to grow crops in 11 countries, a study by an environmental group said on Monday."
News Snippets
Alstom confirms bid intention for Eskom's R10bn wind, solar projects - Engineering News
Safari lodge's concentrated photovoltaic plant could be precursor to 50-MW project - Engineering News
Western Cape looking to attract renewable energy projects - Engineering News
Eskom wraps up CFL roll-out initiative - Engineering News
New website to track climate aid, key to UN talks - Engineering News
Safari lodge's concentrated photovoltaic plant could be precursor to 50-MW project - Engineering News
Western Cape looking to attract renewable energy projects - Engineering News
Eskom wraps up CFL roll-out initiative - Engineering News
New website to track climate aid, key to UN talks - Engineering News
Saturday, August 28, 2010
News Snippets
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Grid unbundling not an immediate obstacle to private power - Eskom - Engineering News.
Suntech signs MoU to build SA solar plants - Engineering News
Treasury calls for private sector involvement in electricity - Engineering News
CARBON TAX
Treasury says double-cabs to be taxed from March 1, at higher threshold and rate - Engineering News: "The Treasury confirmed on Thursday that the sale of new double-cab pick-ups would be subject to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions tax from March 1, 2011.
The emissions tax would still be introduced on new passenger cars from September 1, 2010.
Both the penalty and threshold for CO2 tax on double-cabs would be higher than for passenger cars.
New passenger cars would be taxed, based on their certified CO2 emissions, at R75 for each g/km above 120 g/km, adding around 2% to 3% to the price tag of a car.
The Treasury said that the threshold for double-cabs would be set at 175 g/km, and the tax rate at R100 for every g/km above the threshold."
Grid unbundling not an immediate obstacle to private power - Eskom - Engineering News.
Suntech signs MoU to build SA solar plants - Engineering News
Treasury calls for private sector involvement in electricity - Engineering News
CARBON TAX
Treasury says double-cabs to be taxed from March 1, at higher threshold and rate - Engineering News: "The Treasury confirmed on Thursday that the sale of new double-cab pick-ups would be subject to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions tax from March 1, 2011.
The emissions tax would still be introduced on new passenger cars from September 1, 2010.
Both the penalty and threshold for CO2 tax on double-cabs would be higher than for passenger cars.
New passenger cars would be taxed, based on their certified CO2 emissions, at R75 for each g/km above 120 g/km, adding around 2% to 3% to the price tag of a car.
The Treasury said that the threshold for double-cabs would be set at 175 g/km, and the tax rate at R100 for every g/km above the threshold."
New energy management standard to be introduced late next year
"The introduction of ISO 50001 – a new energy management standard – was expected to come into force by the end of 2011, however, large electricity consumers should gear themselves towards implementing the standard now." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Also see: Eskom working with key customers on energy-efficiency plans - Engineering News.
Also see: Eskom working with key customers on energy-efficiency plans - Engineering News.
SA's energy plan expected by November, no plan to cancel Kusile
"The much-anticipated second Integrated Resource Plan, or IRP2010, originally planned for promulgation in September, is now expected by the end of October or early November, an official from the Department of Energy (DoE) said on Wednesday." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Record number of entries for energy-efficient lighting design competition
"Power utility Eskom this year received a record number of 567 entries from designers for its Energy-Efficient Lighting Design competition (EELDC), which closed for entries on July 30." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Mainstream CEO calls for medium-term renewable energy target
"The South African government should set a clear medium-term target to fully harness the economic benefits to the South African economy from renewable energy, said Mainstream Renewable Power CEO Eddie O'Connor.
He added that this was the approach adopted by a number of States, including China and the European Union, which have since developed strong renewable energy industries." More here, on Engineering News.
He added that this was the approach adopted by a number of States, including China and the European Union, which have since developed strong renewable energy industries." More here, on Engineering News.
CO2 tax possible on all cars, old and new – Gordhan
"Government is considering implementing a carbon dioxide (CO2) vehicle emission tax on all cars, both new and old, Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan said on Tuesday.
Speaking in the National Assembly on the Taxation Laws Amendment Bill and related legislation, he said this would be implemented by reviewing the approach to vehicle licence fees implemented by the provinces." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Speaking in the National Assembly on the Taxation Laws Amendment Bill and related legislation, he said this would be implemented by reviewing the approach to vehicle licence fees implemented by the provinces." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Acid drainage response team to seek ‘affordable' solutions
"A special Ministerial-level task team has been assembled by the South African government to develop a coordinated strategy to deal "urgently" with the issue of acid-water drainage, which some believe poses a serious threat to South Africa's water resources, the country's environment, human health and to local economies." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
SA should target 50% renewable energy by 2030 - WWF
In this Engineering News article, WWF revealed in its report titled 'Renewable energy in a just transition to sustainable electricity supply' "that South Africa had the potential to rapidly upscale its use of renewable energy, and with a combination of energy-efficiency measures, this would result in cheaper electricity over the medium term.
The report also introduced the sustainable national accessible power planning (Snapp) tool, which was commissioned by the WWF, and was freely available on the Internet. The Snapp tool allowed for interrogation of government's proposed energy plan, and allowed for the modelling of different energy scenarios, depending on the different inputs made."
The report also introduced the sustainable national accessible power planning (Snapp) tool, which was commissioned by the WWF, and was freely available on the Internet. The Snapp tool allowed for interrogation of government's proposed energy plan, and allowed for the modelling of different energy scenarios, depending on the different inputs made."
Ecomagination Challenge
This Engineering News article reports that "Global technology group General Electric's (GE's) $200-million competition for "breakthrough" green-energy ideas has reportedly already attracted around 1 000 submissions.
The competition, which was launched last month, is being pursued in collaboration with venture capital firms Emerald Technology Ventures, Foundation Capital, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byer and RockPort Capital.
The deadline for entries, which can be made online at www.ecomagination.com/challenge, is September 30, 2010."
The competition, which was launched last month, is being pursued in collaboration with venture capital firms Emerald Technology Ventures, Foundation Capital, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byer and RockPort Capital.
The deadline for entries, which can be made online at www.ecomagination.com/challenge, is September 30, 2010."
Friday, August 13, 2010
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