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
Friday, September 30, 2011
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
"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
Sunday, September 25, 2011
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
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
Thursday, September 15, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
A renewed focus on green energy
This Mail&Guardian online article gives a good overview of the Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
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
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
Friday, September 2, 2011
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.
Read more here.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
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
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!
World’s first Commercial Wave Power Project
EMERGING TECHNOLOGY - The INgSOC hybrid bike that is out of this world!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
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."
"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.
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
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
Friday, August 12, 2011
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
Friday, August 5, 2011
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
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
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
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
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
Thursday, August 4, 2011
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
The GASWALK will start at 11h00 from the Natural History Museum in the Company Gardens Strand Street Company Gardens Adderley Street
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
City launches home waste recycling pilot
“The refuse recycling programme Think Twice of the City of Cape Town is finally kicking off in the northern suburbs on Monday 1 August.
This will enable about 44 000 households to do their recycling in the comfort if their own homes. This includes areas north of the N1 – from Bellville east of the Tygerberg Hills to Durbanville, Brackenfell and Kraaifontein and up to, but excluding, the Kraaifontein smallholdings.
Residents have already received letters from the City of Cape Town about the City’s planned separate collection of dry recyclables projects in which residents can apply for a special recycling container in which to put recyclable items.
They can apply for a 130-litre recycling bit at the municipal offices in Durbanville, Kraaifontein or the Bloemhof municipal offices in Bloemhof Street, Bellville from Monday to Friday from 14:00 to 18:00 and on Saturdays and public holidays from 08:00 to 13:00.
These free containers will only be issued to interested residents and are not compulsory. The charcoal container will have wheels and come with a green lid.
The recycling bins will be collected weekly by the City one work day after the official collection day of other household waste.
The project is managed by Waste Plan.
This rollout in the northern suburbs is part of a three-year pilot project to asses the programme’s long-term sustainability and financial viability.
Cape Town’s 3.5 million residents generate up to 6000 tons of waste per day, said Shehaam Sims, the City’s mayoral committee member for utility services.
“With this initiative we can encourage and ensure that not all waste thrown away ends up at a landfile site.” he said.
The recycling bins may only be used for their intended purpose and mixed waste or contaminated recyclables will not be collected, Sims said.
The City has installed radio frequency devices in all bins which will be automatically scanned when serviced, providing the City will valuable data, he said. “All recyclables will be taken to the City’s Kraaifontein Integrated Waste Management facility.” ”
Esme Erasmus
TygerBurger Kraaifontein, Page 11
Wednesday 20 July 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Carton recycling creates local jobs
"The local recycling of juice and milk cartons, produced by packaging company Tetra Pak South Africa, has created 18 jobs and removed the need to ship the recovered cartons to India for recycling, says Tetra Pak South Africa environmental manager Rodney Reynders.
The company signed an agreement with Germiston-based Gayatri Paper Mills, which is a part of the packaging and labelling supplier Golden Era Group, to use hydropulping technology to recycle the cartons and use the fibre to produce board for secondary packaging.
"What we have done with the paper mill has created 18 sustainable, local jobs at a single mill. Before the agreement, we were exporting our recovered cartons to India for recycling. We were exporting valuable fibre instead of reusing it locally,” he says." Engineering News
The company signed an agreement with Germiston-based Gayatri Paper Mills, which is a part of the packaging and labelling supplier Golden Era Group, to use hydropulping technology to recycle the cartons and use the fibre to produce board for secondary packaging.
"What we have done with the paper mill has created 18 sustainable, local jobs at a single mill. Before the agreement, we were exporting our recovered cartons to India for recycling. We were exporting valuable fibre instead of reusing it locally,” he says." Engineering News
Kenya approves law to allow GM crops
"Kenya has become the fourth country in Africa to open up to genetically modified (GM) crops after approving laws to allow their production and importation.
East Africa's leading economy follows South Africa, a leader in the continent on biotechnology and a major exporter of GM maize, as well as Egypt and Burkina Faso, but it faces growing resistance from lobbyists against the move.
In a Legal Notice dated June 22, acting Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Hellen Sambili said the laws would come into effect on July 1, ending restrictions on GM maize and other various products in the country." Engineering News
East Africa's leading economy follows South Africa, a leader in the continent on biotechnology and a major exporter of GM maize, as well as Egypt and Burkina Faso, but it faces growing resistance from lobbyists against the move.
In a Legal Notice dated June 22, acting Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Hellen Sambili said the laws would come into effect on July 1, ending restrictions on GM maize and other various products in the country." Engineering News
Delayed Joule project seeks R9bn to produce market-ready vehicle
"Optimal Energy is seeking around R9-billion to commercialise its home-grown Joule electric vehicle (EV). This includes developing the final product, and securing a local production facility, says CEO Kobus Meiring.
“We are getting there – slowly, but surely,” he notes.
Meiring says it was vital for the Joule project to remain on government’s books, so to speak, when its industrial policy action plan was fine-tuned recently." Engineering News
“We are getting there – slowly, but surely,” he notes.
Meiring says it was vital for the Joule project to remain on government’s books, so to speak, when its industrial policy action plan was fine-tuned recently." Engineering News
NEWS SNIPPETS - CLIMATE CHANGE
Negotiators should resolve political issues ahead of Durban climate talks - Engineering News
Africa to launch own fund to manage climate cash - Engineering News
Africa to launch own fund to manage climate cash - Engineering News
NEWS SNIPPETS - RENEWABLE ENERGY
R100bn investment needed to meet SA’s renewable energy aspirations - Engineering News
Renewables tender should be issued next week - DoE - Engineering News
R2bn E Cape wind project passes key enviro, community milestones - Engineering News
Photovoltaic projects being rolled out despite Refit uncertainty - Engineering News
90 renewables firms call for 'frank' dialogue to end procurement uncertainties - Engineering News
Nersa set to concur with DoE on renewables bid process, but raises questions - Engineering News
Govt confirms inclusion of price competition in first renewables round - Engineering News
Renewables tender should be issued next week - DoE - Engineering News
R2bn E Cape wind project passes key enviro, community milestones - Engineering News
Photovoltaic projects being rolled out despite Refit uncertainty - Engineering News
90 renewables firms call for 'frank' dialogue to end procurement uncertainties - Engineering News
Nersa set to concur with DoE on renewables bid process, but raises questions - Engineering News
Govt confirms inclusion of price competition in first renewables round - Engineering News
NEWS SNIPPETS - SOLAR WATER HEATERS / GREEN BUILDING
Western Cape mulling policy changes to promote use of solar water heaters - Engineering News
New Aurecon office achieves SA’s first 5-star green building rating - Engineering News
Solar water heaters to help improve healthcare in Qunu - Engineering News
New Aurecon office achieves SA’s first 5-star green building rating - Engineering News
Solar water heaters to help improve healthcare in Qunu - Engineering News
NEWS SNIPPETS - WASTE MANAGEMENT / NUCLEAR CLEAN-UP / EMISSIONS
UN atomic watchdog head lauds Fukushima cleanup - Engineering News
Waste offenders face stiff penalties, but enforcement capacity questioned - Engineering News
SA wants Fukushima lessons integrated into nuclear plan, as IEA warns on emissions - Engineering News
Underground coal gasification has key role to play in Southern Africa - Engineering News
Waste offenders face stiff penalties, but enforcement capacity questioned - Engineering News
SA wants Fukushima lessons integrated into nuclear plan, as IEA warns on emissions - Engineering News
Underground coal gasification has key role to play in Southern Africa - Engineering News
NEWS SNIPPETS - ELECTRICITY CONSERVATION / ENERGY EFFICIENCY
SAB has cut power use by 17% since 2008 crisis - Engineering News
SA could see its first hybrid power station after Kusile - Engineering News
New energy efficient data centre could save Vodacom R1m a year - Engineering News
MTN ‘greening’ initiatives cut head office power usage by 37% - Engineering News
Public Works reviewing draft green building framework - Engineering News
SA could see its first hybrid power station after Kusile - Engineering News
New energy efficient data centre could save Vodacom R1m a year - Engineering News
MTN ‘greening’ initiatives cut head office power usage by 37% - Engineering News
Public Works reviewing draft green building framework - Engineering News
Friday, July 29, 2011
UN sees small-scale farming as future
" Governments must strive to make a major shift towards small-scale farming if endemic food crises are to be overcome and the production boosted to support the global population, according to the UN.
In its annual World Economic and Social Survey, released yesterday, the UN said a transformation from large-scale and intensive systems of agriculture was vital if growing environmental and land degradation was to be avoided.
The food crisis of 2007/8 and a price spike this year “have revealed deep structural problems in the global food system and the need to increase resources and innovation in agriculture as to accelerate food production”, it said.
Food production would have to increase by between 70 percent and 100 percent by 2050 to sustain a world population that would have grown by 35 percent from the present 6.9 billion to around 9 billion by that time.
“With current agricultural technology, practices and land use patterns, this cannot be achieved without further contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution and land degradation,” the UN said.
In its turn, the resulting environmental degradation would undermine any growth in food productivity.
Of the 925 million people – nearly a seventh of the population – who are undernourished, 98 percent live in developing countries.
The survey said that achieving food security would provide a long-term solution to hunger and malnutrition, easing price volatility and protecting the environment.
“The main challenge is to improve incentives so that they promote and lead to the development of sustainable agriculture by small farm holders,” the survey said.
“Evidence has shown that for most crops the optimal farm is small in scale and that it is at this level that most gain in terms of both sustainable productivity increases and rural poverty reduction can be achieved.” –Reuters "
Cape Times July 2011
Robert Evans
Geneva
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Local guide being developed for ‘green leasing’
"Research by the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) and the South African Property Owners Association (Sapoa) has shown that South African tenants and landlords are starting to request “green leases”.
To this end, a working group of members from the GBCSA and Sapoa has been established to jointly develop a guide to green leasing.
A green lease, explains GBCSA executive chairperson Bruce Kerswill, lays out certain contractual lease obligations between a landlord and a tenant of a building, that require or encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly practices." Engineering News
To this end, a working group of members from the GBCSA and Sapoa has been established to jointly develop a guide to green leasing.
A green lease, explains GBCSA executive chairperson Bruce Kerswill, lays out certain contractual lease obligations between a landlord and a tenant of a building, that require or encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly practices." Engineering News
Greenpeace protestors dump 5 t of coal outside Eskom head office
"Nongovernmental organisation (NGO) Greenpeace has staged a demonstration dumping five tons of coal on the doorstep of power utility Eskom’s head office, Megawatt Park, in Johannesburg.
The NGO demanded that Eskom “clean up its act” and stop the construction of the Kusile coal-fired power station near Delmas in Mpumalanga.
“Eskom should end its addiction to coal and shift massive investments to large-scale renewable energy projects,” said the organisation." Engineering News
The NGO demanded that Eskom “clean up its act” and stop the construction of the Kusile coal-fired power station near Delmas in Mpumalanga.
“Eskom should end its addiction to coal and shift massive investments to large-scale renewable energy projects,” said the organisation." Engineering News
News snippets
€50m IFC investment to support SMEs, energy efficiency projects - Engineering News
Joburg CBD safe from acid mine water – study - Engineering News
Developers call for sustainable form of renewable energy procurement - Engineering News "South African Wind Energy Association CEO Johan van den Berg said at a briefing in Johannesburg that price-competitive tender process could breach the trust on which potential wind developers have invested some R400-million, and could tarnish the country’s credibility.
He said that shifting away from the Refit programme could be illegal and that it would stall the renewable energy drive and stifle economic growth."
Drinking water quality improving, but wastewater still a concern - Engineering News
Logistical arrangements for COP17 meeting in Durban on track − Zuma - Engineering News
Push on to clear COP 17 hazards and set realistic Durban goals - Engineering News
Joburg CBD safe from acid mine water – study - Engineering News
Developers call for sustainable form of renewable energy procurement - Engineering News "South African Wind Energy Association CEO Johan van den Berg said at a briefing in Johannesburg that price-competitive tender process could breach the trust on which potential wind developers have invested some R400-million, and could tarnish the country’s credibility.
He said that shifting away from the Refit programme could be illegal and that it would stall the renewable energy drive and stifle economic growth."
Drinking water quality improving, but wastewater still a concern - Engineering News
Logistical arrangements for COP17 meeting in Durban on track − Zuma - Engineering News
Push on to clear COP 17 hazards and set realistic Durban goals - Engineering News
Eskom warns it will pass on full carbon tax effect to consumers
"South African power utility Eskom has warned that it will not be able to absorb the carbon tax proposed by the National Treasury in a recent discussion document, and that it will be forced to pass on the full cost to the consumer in the form of higher prices.
The utility, which burnt 124.7-million tons of coal and produced 230.3-million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the year to March 31, 2011, reports that it has submitted a “strong” response to government. The group is South Africa’s biggest emitter, producing about 1 t of CO2 for every megawatt hour of production.
The National Treasury has issued a discussion paper on a proposed tax and has indicate that it will seek to finalise its policy ahead of the 2012 Budget.
In the paper, government says it favours a direct tax on carbon emissions, which it says will “impose the lowest distortion” on the economy. In fact, the discussion document asserts that a tax of R75/t carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), increasing to around R200/t CO2e, “would be both feasible and appropriate to achieve the desired behavioural changes and emissions reduction targets”." Engineering News
The utility, which burnt 124.7-million tons of coal and produced 230.3-million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the year to March 31, 2011, reports that it has submitted a “strong” response to government. The group is South Africa’s biggest emitter, producing about 1 t of CO2 for every megawatt hour of production.
The National Treasury has issued a discussion paper on a proposed tax and has indicate that it will seek to finalise its policy ahead of the 2012 Budget.
In the paper, government says it favours a direct tax on carbon emissions, which it says will “impose the lowest distortion” on the economy. In fact, the discussion document asserts that a tax of R75/t carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), increasing to around R200/t CO2e, “would be both feasible and appropriate to achieve the desired behavioural changes and emissions reduction targets”." Engineering News
Northern Cape solar resources among the best in the world
"The 5 000 MW solar park, which government is planning to build near Upington in the sun-drenched Northern Cape, would have some of the best solar resources in the world, the Stellenbosch University said on Friday." Engineering News
News snippets
Europe seeks industrial scale aviation biofuel production by 2020 - Engineering News
Vodacom aims for top green building rating with R24m green innovation centre - Engineering News
Fresh concern that SA is poised to abandon Refit in favour of competitive bidding - Engineering News
Eskom to complete CSP design by 2013, commission plant in 2016 - Engineering News
Cloud of uncertainty still hanging over SA renewables sector - Engineering News
Transatlantic flight a historic step in the development of aviation biofuels - Engineering News - "Honeywell Green Jet Fuel can be produced from a number of crops and, to date, the company has manufactured more than 700 000 (US) gallons (some 2 653 000 l) of biofuels, from inedible feedstocks like algae, camelina and jatropha."
SA renewable sector could compete globally – European merchant bank - Engineering News
R225m for acid mine drainage not enough, Parliament hears - Engineering News - "The R225-million set aside to deal with acid mine drainage (AMD) would not be enough, and closer to R750-million would be needed to address the problem successfully, Johann Claassens from the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) said on Tuesday."
SA urges developed nations to extend Kyoto Protocol - Engineering News
Treasury sets aside R200m for hosting of climate change meeting - Engineering News
As 2011 rhino killings look set to reach 400, VW donates Amaroks to help stem tide - Engineering News
Vodacom aims for top green building rating with R24m green innovation centre - Engineering News
Fresh concern that SA is poised to abandon Refit in favour of competitive bidding - Engineering News
Eskom to complete CSP design by 2013, commission plant in 2016 - Engineering News
Cloud of uncertainty still hanging over SA renewables sector - Engineering News
Transatlantic flight a historic step in the development of aviation biofuels - Engineering News - "Honeywell Green Jet Fuel can be produced from a number of crops and, to date, the company has manufactured more than 700 000 (US) gallons (some 2 653 000 l) of biofuels, from inedible feedstocks like algae, camelina and jatropha."
SA renewable sector could compete globally – European merchant bank - Engineering News
R225m for acid mine drainage not enough, Parliament hears - Engineering News - "The R225-million set aside to deal with acid mine drainage (AMD) would not be enough, and closer to R750-million would be needed to address the problem successfully, Johann Claassens from the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) said on Tuesday."
SA urges developed nations to extend Kyoto Protocol - Engineering News
Treasury sets aside R200m for hosting of climate change meeting - Engineering News
As 2011 rhino killings look set to reach 400, VW donates Amaroks to help stem tide - Engineering News
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Economy, public seen as key to climate deal
Wider public unease about climate change and stronger economic growth are likely to be needed to revive sluggish UN talks after hopes for quick agreement on a treaty have fizzled, experts say. More here, on Engineering News
SA solar PV uptake lags but Refit, solar park seen as growth drivers
"Despite the South African photovoltaic (PV) market expected to earn a revenue of $29.8-million by 2014, up from $21.6-million in 2010, the market would continue to grow at a much slower pace than many of its international counterparts, research consultancy Frost & Sullivan (F&S) said on Wednesday.
This would continue until such time that the renewable energy feed-in tariff (Refit) programme, which is in a waiting phase, is implemented. “The South African market will be limited primarily to off-grid applications, such as rural electrification, road signage, isolated farms and lodges and telecommunications,” said F&S in its ‘South African Solar Photovoltaic Market’ report." Read more here, on Engineering News
This would continue until such time that the renewable energy feed-in tariff (Refit) programme, which is in a waiting phase, is implemented. “The South African market will be limited primarily to off-grid applications, such as rural electrification, road signage, isolated farms and lodges and telecommunications,” said F&S in its ‘South African Solar Photovoltaic Market’ report." Read more here, on Engineering News
Solar Water Heaters
Including solar water heaters in building codes to help SA reach 2014 target - "While power utility Eskom’s rebate programme has facilitated interest in solar water heaters (SWHs) , a greater, more assertive framework would be required to attract the mass SWH adoption needed to reach South Africa’s target of one-million installations by the end of 2014.
Global consultancy Frost & Sullivan (F&S) suggested that such a framework could include making SWHs mandatory for new buildings, which would eradicate the restrictive high initial cost of the product, by incorporating this into a new building’s operating cost." More here, on Engineering News
Nedbank launches pilot project to convert burst geysers to solar - "Banking giant Nedbank’s insurance division, Nedgroup Insurance, has launched a pilot project allowing its home-owner clients to install solar geysers as replacements when existing geysers burst or malfunction." More here, on Engineering News
Global consultancy Frost & Sullivan (F&S) suggested that such a framework could include making SWHs mandatory for new buildings, which would eradicate the restrictive high initial cost of the product, by incorporating this into a new building’s operating cost." More here, on Engineering News
Nedbank launches pilot project to convert burst geysers to solar - "Banking giant Nedbank’s insurance division, Nedgroup Insurance, has launched a pilot project allowing its home-owner clients to install solar geysers as replacements when existing geysers burst or malfunction." More here, on Engineering News
Crucial to get first renewables round right, bank argues
"Banking group Investec, which is participating in a range of renewable energy projects in South Africa, says that while it is keen for the delayed renewable energy feed-in tariff (Refit) procurement process to begin as soon as possible, it also accepts that it is more important for South Africa that the first round is concluded successfully than hastily." More here, on Engineering News
World off course on climate, renewables vital – UN panel
"The world is off course in fighting climate change and governments need to boost green energies to build new momentum, the head of the UN panel of climate scientists said on Monday." Read more here, on Engineering News
Japan Doubles Admission of Radiation, Admits Three Meltdowns
Read more here, on IPA.
Meanwhile, here in SA, Earthlife Africa (with partners) will be hosting a series of meetings (in the second part of July 2011) around South Africa on the EIA for Nuclear -1, the legal issues, and a possible legal challenge if the EIA is granted. Find out more here.
and on the other hand:
Two top universities to jointly offer special nuclear courses - Engineering News
Meanwhile, here in SA, Earthlife Africa (with partners) will be hosting a series of meetings (in the second part of July 2011) around South Africa on the EIA for Nuclear -1, the legal issues, and a possible legal challenge if the EIA is granted. Find out more here.
and on the other hand:
Two top universities to jointly offer special nuclear courses - Engineering News
Friday, June 10, 2011
R250m set aside for business-focused power-saving scheme
"State-owned power utility Eskom has confirmed that R250-million has been set aside as part of a ‘standard offer’ to business consumers, including hotels, commercial property companies and light manufacturers, that are able to prove a reduction in their power consumption patterns.
Successful applicants will secure a three-year contract with Eskom, with 40% of the payment made after the energy savings have been made and verified. The balance will be paid in tranches at the end of each year." More, here on Engineering News
Successful applicants will secure a three-year contract with Eskom, with 40% of the payment made after the energy savings have been made and verified. The balance will be paid in tranches at the end of each year." More, here on Engineering News
Municipalities seek higher power tariffs to fund infrastructure upgrades
More here, on Engineering News
SA’s resource-intensive economic trajectory unsustainable – NPC
"Balancing the potential benefits from further development of South Africa’s mineral and agricultural endowments with a less resource- and energy-intensive development path has been highlighted as a key future challenge for future deliberations by the nascent National Planning Commission (NPC).
In its ‘Diagnostics Overview’, released by NPC chairperson Minister Trevor Manuel and deputy chairperson Cyril Ramaphosa in Cape Town on Thursday, the NPC warns that the costs of such a transition would not “fall evenly” and export sectors could “suffer”.
Nevertheless, it describes the prevailing resource-intensive nature of the South African economy as “unsustainable”, while making it vulnerable to external forces that can induce local booms and busts. Further, it notes that the coal-heavy nature of the economy open it to penalties as the world seeks to mitigate climate change by reducing emissions of carbon dioxide." More here, on Engineering News
In its ‘Diagnostics Overview’, released by NPC chairperson Minister Trevor Manuel and deputy chairperson Cyril Ramaphosa in Cape Town on Thursday, the NPC warns that the costs of such a transition would not “fall evenly” and export sectors could “suffer”.
Nevertheless, it describes the prevailing resource-intensive nature of the South African economy as “unsustainable”, while making it vulnerable to external forces that can induce local booms and busts. Further, it notes that the coal-heavy nature of the economy open it to penalties as the world seeks to mitigate climate change by reducing emissions of carbon dioxide." More here, on Engineering News
SA market for energy-efficient solutions to grow to $64.9m by 2016 – study
More here, on Engineering News
Imperial Cargo HQ switches on solar power system
"Imperial Cargo’s Paarl-based headquarters has switched on its new solar power system, while also opening the valves of its self-sufficient water treatment plant.
Imperial Cargo, a member of the Imperial Logistics group, has spent two years transforming what was a dump site into a green energy site." More here, on Engineering News
Imperial Cargo, a member of the Imperial Logistics group, has spent two years transforming what was a dump site into a green energy site." More here, on Engineering News
SA commits R18.6m for solar park feasibility study
"South Africa has committed R18.6-million to complete a feasibility study for a solar park, in Upington, and localisation would be “vigorously pursued” in moving ahead with the project, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters said on Tuesday.
The feasibility study for the solar park, which would produce 5 000 MW of renewable energy, would be completed by the end of July." More here, on Engineering News
The feasibility study for the solar park, which would produce 5 000 MW of renewable energy, would be completed by the end of July." More here, on Engineering News
Eskom hopes to conclude more renewable energy funding soon
"State-owned power utility Eskom hopes to conclude more funding for its renewable energy projects in the near future, the utility, which secured a $365-million African Development Bank (AfDB) loan, said on Monday.
Eskom would use the AfDB loan towards financing its 100-MW Sere wind project in the Western Cape and a planned 100-MW concentrated solar plant in the Northern Cape.
The utility said that the AfDB loan formed part of a broader funding plan for renewable energy projects, which includes other development finance agencies.
The loan consists of $265-million from the bank’s own resources and $100-million from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF). The CTF loan is for 40 years and was concluded under the South African government guarantee for Eskom’s debt." More here, on Engineering News
Eskom would use the AfDB loan towards financing its 100-MW Sere wind project in the Western Cape and a planned 100-MW concentrated solar plant in the Northern Cape.
The utility said that the AfDB loan formed part of a broader funding plan for renewable energy projects, which includes other development finance agencies.
The loan consists of $265-million from the bank’s own resources and $100-million from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF). The CTF loan is for 40 years and was concluded under the South African government guarantee for Eskom’s debt." More here, on Engineering News
Standard Bank to launch efficient lighting CDM programme
"Standard Bank will kick off an energy efficient lighting programme aimed at replacing the estimated 40-million inefficient lamps in office buildings across South Africa, by early 2012." More here, on Engineering News
Solar PV has emerged as big IRP ‘winner’, report asserts
"Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies have emerged as the “big winner” in South Africa’s 20-year integrated resource plan (IRP) for electricity, which indicates that the PV solutions could deliver 8 400 MW of new capacity by 2030, a new report by Frost & Sullivan argues.
The target could translate into the deployment of a “staggering” 300 MW a year of large-scale solar PV from 2012 onwards, potentially transforming the country into a “solar gold mine”." More here, on Engineering News
The target could translate into the deployment of a “staggering” 300 MW a year of large-scale solar PV from 2012 onwards, potentially transforming the country into a “solar gold mine”." More here, on Engineering News
Google invests more in Renewable Energy
"The world’s most popular search engine has furthered its investment in green energy resources by purchasing the largest solar power tower plant on the planet. Located in the Mojave Desert, the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System is already under construction and is reportedly looking to produce 392 MW on completion in 2013 (1MW would power approximately 650 homes)." Read more here, on World Architecture News
Saturday, June 4, 2011
China gives bleak assessment of its battered environment
"More than half of China's cities are affected by acid rain and one-sixth of major rivers are so polluted the water is unfit even for farmland, a senior official said on Friday in a bleak assessment of the environmental price of the country's economic boom."..."The environmental degradation which has accompanied China's breakneck growth has emerged as one of the most potent fault lines in Chinese society, driving protests against Beijing's perceived inability to effectively tackle the problem."..."China has repeatedly promised to clean up its stressed environment. But it often fails to match that with the resources and political will to enforce Beijing's mandates, as local officials put growth, revenue and jobs ahead of environmental protection." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting]
World Environment Day 5 June
Read about it here. Find out more about "Eat for EArth" project, here in SA.
No ‘green’ earmarking plan for carbon tax revenue
Should South Africa, which produced about 500-million tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e)yearly, move ahead with the implementation of a carbon tax, the revenue generated would not necessarily be set aside specifically for environmental projects, National Treasury environmental and fuel taxes director Sharlin Hemraj stressed on Thursday. Engineering News
NamPower moves to study Namibia’s bush-to-power potential
"Namibia’s national power utility NamPower plans to conduct a prefeasibility study into the potential for biomass power plants, fuelled using wood from invasive bush, which is said to be accelerating desertification and undermining agriculture in the vast Southern African country." Extracted from this Engineering News article
Joburg commissions first of five gas-to-energy projects
"The City of Johannesburg commissioned its first landfill gas-to-energy project, with a further four sites to follow over the next 12 months."..."Through the Infrastructure and Services Department (ISD), Johannesburg initiated the landfill gas-to-energy Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) project in 2007."..."The project would make use of five of the city’s landfill sites including Marie Louise, Robinson Deep, Ennerdale, Linbro Park and Goudkoppies landfills."..."The Robinson Deep landfill gas-to-energy project, which would be fully operational by June, was the first to be completed, and would be followed by the commissioning of Marie Louise landfill in August, and the rest by June 2012."..."It was expected that the renewable energy generated would be fed into the municipal grid, thus off-setting largely coal-derived electricity."..."“When completed this will be the biggest landfill gas-to-energy project in South-Africa,” said Johannesburg ISD representative Palesa Mathibeli." Extracted from this Engineering News article
Cesa says SA on ‘right track’ with acid mine drainage report
"Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan announced in February when he presented his Budget speech in parliament that R225-million had been set aside for dealing with AMD."..."The budget makes specific provision for short-term measures to bring the AMD situation under control and to avert short-term environmental and property impacts and risks."..."Further work to develop long-term technically feasible and financially viable approaches and solutions to the management of AMD were still being considered."..."Expanding on the problem in the Central basin, which is the largest, the report states that the water level has been rising at an average daily rate of 0,59-million litres since July 2009, varying seasonally between 0,3-million litres a day and 0,9-million litres a day. By the end of last year, the water was about 510 m below the surface."..."It is predicted that the rising water level will reach the surface by March 2013." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting]
Minister: Germany to go nuke free by 2022
"Germany's ruling coalition has agreed to shut down all of the nation's nuclear power plants by 2022." More, hereon CNN.
Our energy future
Overhaul of Eskom board to have no executive spill over - Engineering News
International summit urges stronger nuclear agencies and safety cooperation - Engineering News
Necsa to decide on new isotope reactor next year - Engineering News
SA plans to start nuclear procurement process next year - "South Africa plans to start the procurement process for its nuclear build programme next year, with the first new reactor expected to come on line by 2023, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters said on Thursday.
The country plans to add 9 600 MW of new nuclear power to its power-generation mix over the next two decades." More here, on Engineering News
Eskom launches ‘open innovation’ pilot to tackle key problems - Engineering News
Nersa delays Refit announcement to mid-June - "The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) would announce a decision on the review of the renewable energy feed-in tariffs (Refit) in mid-June 2011, it said on Tuesday."..."Nersa, which initially expected to complete the Refit review on May 26, said it delayed an announcement owing to the significant amount of feedback received after a public hearings process into the tariff review held on May 5 and May 6."..."Nersa said that 200 written comments were submitted and over 40 presentations were given during the process."..."The regulator released the revised tariff proposal in March, to the surprise of industry players. Most companies with renewable energy interests were not in favour of the revised tariffs as they were, in some cases, particularly solar power, significantly lower than the original tariffs. Many projects in advanced stages were relying on the original tariffs for financial closure, and said that the revised tariffs would render their projects unbankable." Extracted from this Engineering News article
SA should expect more distribution-linked blackouts as R27bn backlog grows - Engineering News
Greenpeace pushes for nuclear-free power mix, big renewable scale-up - "Although the DoE has released the policy-adjusted Integrated Resource Plan 2010 (IRP2010),Greenpeace was lobbying for new decisions, and adjustments to be made to the plan."..."The major push was for the government to more than double its target of 23% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030, to 49%, which Greenpeace believes is achievable."..."At present, about 1% of South Africa’s energy generation mix is derived from renewable energy."..."Compared with the IRP2010, Greenpeace’s energy [r]evolution scenario to 2050 would be significantly more expensive. If the reference scenario required about $181-billion investment, the energy [r]evolution scenario would require some $404-billion."..."However, Teske notes that the future cumulated savings on fuel costs would be significant and go some way to balance out these costs. He also noted that more jobs would be created through greater renewable energy input."..."Where the IRP2010 envisaged 133 000 jobs created in the energy industry, Greenpeace expected that through its energy [r]evolution scenario, some 140 000 jobs could be created."..."Greenpeace was also asking that the government completely remove nuclear power from the future energy plans, and in the interim conduct an independent safety review of the technology, particularly after Japan’s Fukushima nuclear incident."..."It was also stated that Kusile power station was not needed and construction of coal-fired power stations should stop after the construction of the Medupi power station."...Greenpeace also strongly advocated greater energy efficiency through stricter standards and targets." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting].
China interested in building nuclear plant in East Africa - "China wants to help build nuclear power generation in East Africa, uranium mining and investment company IBI Corp said in a statement after meeting Chinese officials in Beijing, revealing China's undimmed appetite for overseas nuclear expansion despite the Japanese nuclear crisis this year."..."IBI, which has uranium-prospective land in Uganda, said its director, AJ Coffman, held an "encouraging meeting... with the relatively new umbrella organisation overseeing China's research and development of Generation 3 and Generation 4 nuclear power plant designs."...""At the meeting, this entity expressed an interest in pursuing nuclear power plant construction in East Africa."..."China is in the early stages of a massive nuclear power expansion to help meet the demands of its power-guzzling economy and to weaken the grip of coal as the dominant source of fuel." Extracted from this Engineering News article[our highlighting].
SA hopes big LPG upscaling will help delay need for new power plants - "The department intends to address the cost of switching to gas appliances by implementing incentives,though they do believe market forces will also encourage consumers to switch to LPG even in the absence of incentives."..."Bulk distribution will be addressed by importing more LPG through the Richards Bay and Saldahna Bay terminals. The National Energy Regulator of South Africa had already granted one license for the importation of LPG through Saldanha Bay." Extracted from this Engineering News article
SA still going nuclear, but moving with renewed caution - "South Africa is still committed to integrating nuclear power into its electricity generation portfolio, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters made clear during her Budget vote speech in Parliament on Thursday. However she also *stressed that the Department of Energy’s approach remains a "cautious" one, even more so following the nuclear crisis in Japan as a result of the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami."..."
The department's director-general Nelisiwe Magubane added that, following the Fukushima incident, the Koeberg nuclear power station was also undergoing stress testing. The cooling mechanism of the plant was under particular scrutiny, as this was an area of failure at the Japanese plant."..."*Peters also said that the “nuclear transaction” needed to be commenced “well in time so that we can commission the power by 2023”." Extracted from this Engineering News article [*our highlighting]
Nuclear energy not a quick fix – Peters - ""Considering long term commitment to nuclear, countries interested in embarking on this programme will require at least 100 years to maintain sustainable and safety operation of the nuclear power, decommissioning and waste disposal," she said."...."Nuclear energy forms part of the integrated resources plan (IRP) which sets out the country's energy mix up to 2030. Nuclear would contribute 23% of the energy supply."..."Peters said South Africa should work with its regional neighbours on projects to secure energy supply."..."Peters said African countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Niger and Gabon were rich in uranium needed to produce nuclear energy."...""This gives the African states the confidence that they can rely on Africa for their uranium supplies," she said."...""This mineral must also benefit Africans through job creation. Partnership with all stakeholders in this value chain, including trade unions involved in mining of energy minerals is essential.""..."The minister said the public's confidence in nuclear power had been shaken by the tragedy in Japan where a magnitude 9 earthquake and tsunami in March crippled the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing releases of radioactivity."...""All of us working in the nuclear field have an enormous task ahead of us to assure the public that nuclear power plants can be operated safely and to earn their trust," she said."...""It is our duty to work hard and communicate transparently about the risk of radiation and address the concerns raised by the Fukushima accident.""..."She warned, however, that this communication should not be "alarmist"." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting]
US bank grants R5,7bn loan for Kusile power station - Engineering News
China's ICBC to lend Zambia $285m for power line - Engineering News
Nuclear could ease energy shortage, create jobs – Adam - "Nuclear Industry Association of South Africa (Niasa) president Dr Rob Adam said on Wednesday that investment in nuclear power would not only ease South Africa’s energy shortage, but would also allow for significant job creation. Adam, who is also Necsa [South African Nuclear Energy Corporation] CEO, delivered a keynote speech on behalf of Energy Minister Dipuo Peters at the Nuclear Industry Localisation Conference (NILC) in Cape Town. He said that nuclear would remain a large part of the Integrated Resources Plan (IRP), which sets out South Africa’s energy mix over 20 years."..."The country’s intention to invest in nuclear power is “extremely positive” for the nuclear industry, said World Nuclear Association director of trade and transport Serge Gorlin."..."Germany is currently the only country to have taken the drastic step of completely closing its nuclear programme, with decommissioning of all its nuclear plants to be completed by 2022. Switzerland, while not closing its nuclear energy programme, has also been cautious and will not be replacing three units that have come to the end of their life cycle, Gorlin said. He added that other countries with established nuclear programmes, such as the UK and the US, were reviewing their existing nuclear plans, but have not fundamentally altered their stance towards nuclear energy generation. Developing countries, such as India and South Korea, were still pursuing growing nuclear energy programmes."" [*our highlighting] Extracted from this Engineering News article.[our highlighting]
Niger says nuclear plans to involve African peers - "Niger's plans to produce its own nuclear power will be developed in partnership with other African
nations, not alone, due to the country's low energy needs, the government said. Niger, *one of the world's poorest countries, is a major exporter of uranium and has oil reserves but currently imports some 70 percent of its energy from neighbouring Nigeria. *"If there is something that we have to do, it is to have our own civilian nuclear reactor," government spokesman Marou Amadou said late on Tuesday. "The one thing to highlight here is that our energy needs are low so we will only (have a reactor) in the context of a consortium of African states," Amadou said, without giving any details of which other countries might be involved."..."Niger's annual electricity consumption in 2007 was just under 590 million kilowatt-hours, according to the latest figures available on the CIA World Factbook."..."The West African nation's *key partner is French nuclear giant Areva, whose Imouraren mine should turn Niger into the world's No. 2 producer/exporter of uranmium."..."The mine will produce 5,000 tonnes of uranium a year from about 2013 or 2014, according to Areva."..."However, the country's north, *where the uramium deposits mostly are, is plagued with insecurity due to banditry, local rebellions and *armed groups linked to al Qaeda."..."Niger announced its nuclear plans last year but there are no target dates for the programme to get up and running." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting]
International summit urges stronger nuclear agencies and safety cooperation - Engineering News
Necsa to decide on new isotope reactor next year - Engineering News
SA plans to start nuclear procurement process next year - "South Africa plans to start the procurement process for its nuclear build programme next year, with the first new reactor expected to come on line by 2023, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters said on Thursday.
The country plans to add 9 600 MW of new nuclear power to its power-generation mix over the next two decades." More here, on Engineering News
Eskom launches ‘open innovation’ pilot to tackle key problems - Engineering News
Nersa delays Refit announcement to mid-June - "The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) would announce a decision on the review of the renewable energy feed-in tariffs (Refit) in mid-June 2011, it said on Tuesday."..."Nersa, which initially expected to complete the Refit review on May 26, said it delayed an announcement owing to the significant amount of feedback received after a public hearings process into the tariff review held on May 5 and May 6."..."Nersa said that 200 written comments were submitted and over 40 presentations were given during the process."..."The regulator released the revised tariff proposal in March, to the surprise of industry players. Most companies with renewable energy interests were not in favour of the revised tariffs as they were, in some cases, particularly solar power, significantly lower than the original tariffs. Many projects in advanced stages were relying on the original tariffs for financial closure, and said that the revised tariffs would render their projects unbankable." Extracted from this Engineering News article
SA should expect more distribution-linked blackouts as R27bn backlog grows - Engineering News
Greenpeace pushes for nuclear-free power mix, big renewable scale-up - "Although the DoE has released the policy-adjusted Integrated Resource Plan 2010 (IRP2010),Greenpeace was lobbying for new decisions, and adjustments to be made to the plan."..."The major push was for the government to more than double its target of 23% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030, to 49%, which Greenpeace believes is achievable."..."At present, about 1% of South Africa’s energy generation mix is derived from renewable energy."..."Compared with the IRP2010, Greenpeace’s energy [r]evolution scenario to 2050 would be significantly more expensive. If the reference scenario required about $181-billion investment, the energy [r]evolution scenario would require some $404-billion."..."However, Teske notes that the future cumulated savings on fuel costs would be significant and go some way to balance out these costs. He also noted that more jobs would be created through greater renewable energy input."..."Where the IRP2010 envisaged 133 000 jobs created in the energy industry, Greenpeace expected that through its energy [r]evolution scenario, some 140 000 jobs could be created."..."Greenpeace was also asking that the government completely remove nuclear power from the future energy plans, and in the interim conduct an independent safety review of the technology, particularly after Japan’s Fukushima nuclear incident."..."It was also stated that Kusile power station was not needed and construction of coal-fired power stations should stop after the construction of the Medupi power station."...Greenpeace also strongly advocated greater energy efficiency through stricter standards and targets." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting].
China interested in building nuclear plant in East Africa - "China wants to help build nuclear power generation in East Africa, uranium mining and investment company IBI Corp said in a statement after meeting Chinese officials in Beijing, revealing China's undimmed appetite for overseas nuclear expansion despite the Japanese nuclear crisis this year."..."IBI, which has uranium-prospective land in Uganda, said its director, AJ Coffman, held an "encouraging meeting... with the relatively new umbrella organisation overseeing China's research and development of Generation 3 and Generation 4 nuclear power plant designs."...""At the meeting, this entity expressed an interest in pursuing nuclear power plant construction in East Africa."..."China is in the early stages of a massive nuclear power expansion to help meet the demands of its power-guzzling economy and to weaken the grip of coal as the dominant source of fuel." Extracted from this Engineering News article[our highlighting].
SA hopes big LPG upscaling will help delay need for new power plants - "The department intends to address the cost of switching to gas appliances by implementing incentives,though they do believe market forces will also encourage consumers to switch to LPG even in the absence of incentives."..."Bulk distribution will be addressed by importing more LPG through the Richards Bay and Saldahna Bay terminals. The National Energy Regulator of South Africa had already granted one license for the importation of LPG through Saldanha Bay." Extracted from this Engineering News article
SA still going nuclear, but moving with renewed caution - "South Africa is still committed to integrating nuclear power into its electricity generation portfolio, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters made clear during her Budget vote speech in Parliament on Thursday. However she also *stressed that the Department of Energy’s approach remains a "cautious" one, even more so following the nuclear crisis in Japan as a result of the March 11, 2011, earthquake and tsunami."..."
The department's director-general Nelisiwe Magubane added that, following the Fukushima incident, the Koeberg nuclear power station was also undergoing stress testing. The cooling mechanism of the plant was under particular scrutiny, as this was an area of failure at the Japanese plant."..."*Peters also said that the “nuclear transaction” needed to be commenced “well in time so that we can commission the power by 2023”." Extracted from this Engineering News article [*our highlighting]
Nuclear energy not a quick fix – Peters - ""Considering long term commitment to nuclear, countries interested in embarking on this programme will require at least 100 years to maintain sustainable and safety operation of the nuclear power, decommissioning and waste disposal," she said."...."Nuclear energy forms part of the integrated resources plan (IRP) which sets out the country's energy mix up to 2030. Nuclear would contribute 23% of the energy supply."..."Peters said South Africa should work with its regional neighbours on projects to secure energy supply."..."Peters said African countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Niger and Gabon were rich in uranium needed to produce nuclear energy."...""This gives the African states the confidence that they can rely on Africa for their uranium supplies," she said."...""This mineral must also benefit Africans through job creation. Partnership with all stakeholders in this value chain, including trade unions involved in mining of energy minerals is essential.""..."The minister said the public's confidence in nuclear power had been shaken by the tragedy in Japan where a magnitude 9 earthquake and tsunami in March crippled the Fukushima nuclear plant, causing releases of radioactivity."...""All of us working in the nuclear field have an enormous task ahead of us to assure the public that nuclear power plants can be operated safely and to earn their trust," she said."...""It is our duty to work hard and communicate transparently about the risk of radiation and address the concerns raised by the Fukushima accident.""..."She warned, however, that this communication should not be "alarmist"." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting]
US bank grants R5,7bn loan for Kusile power station - Engineering News
China's ICBC to lend Zambia $285m for power line - Engineering News
Nuclear could ease energy shortage, create jobs – Adam - "Nuclear Industry Association of South Africa (Niasa) president Dr Rob Adam said on Wednesday that investment in nuclear power would not only ease South Africa’s energy shortage, but would also allow for significant job creation. Adam, who is also Necsa [South African Nuclear Energy Corporation] CEO, delivered a keynote speech on behalf of Energy Minister Dipuo Peters at the Nuclear Industry Localisation Conference (NILC) in Cape Town. He said that nuclear would remain a large part of the Integrated Resources Plan (IRP), which sets out South Africa’s energy mix over 20 years."..."The country’s intention to invest in nuclear power is “extremely positive” for the nuclear industry, said World Nuclear Association director of trade and transport Serge Gorlin."..."Germany is currently the only country to have taken the drastic step of completely closing its nuclear programme, with decommissioning of all its nuclear plants to be completed by 2022. Switzerland, while not closing its nuclear energy programme, has also been cautious and will not be replacing three units that have come to the end of their life cycle, Gorlin said. He added that other countries with established nuclear programmes, such as the UK and the US, were reviewing their existing nuclear plans, but have not fundamentally altered their stance towards nuclear energy generation. Developing countries, such as India and South Korea, were still pursuing growing nuclear energy programmes."" [*our highlighting] Extracted from this Engineering News article.[our highlighting]
Niger says nuclear plans to involve African peers - "Niger's plans to produce its own nuclear power will be developed in partnership with other African
nations, not alone, due to the country's low energy needs, the government said. Niger, *one of the world's poorest countries, is a major exporter of uranium and has oil reserves but currently imports some 70 percent of its energy from neighbouring Nigeria. *"If there is something that we have to do, it is to have our own civilian nuclear reactor," government spokesman Marou Amadou said late on Tuesday. "The one thing to highlight here is that our energy needs are low so we will only (have a reactor) in the context of a consortium of African states," Amadou said, without giving any details of which other countries might be involved."..."Niger's annual electricity consumption in 2007 was just under 590 million kilowatt-hours, according to the latest figures available on the CIA World Factbook."..."The West African nation's *key partner is French nuclear giant Areva, whose Imouraren mine should turn Niger into the world's No. 2 producer/exporter of uranmium."..."The mine will produce 5,000 tonnes of uranium a year from about 2013 or 2014, according to Areva."..."However, the country's north, *where the uramium deposits mostly are, is plagued with insecurity due to banditry, local rebellions and *armed groups linked to al Qaeda."..."Niger announced its nuclear plans last year but there are no target dates for the programme to get up and running." Extracted from this Engineering News article [our highlighting]
First Refit capacity to be procured by year-end, Peters asserts
"Despite the National Energy Regulator of South Africa’s (Nersa’s) announcement this week that the outcome of its renewable energy feed-in tariff (Refit) review would be delayed until mid-June, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters told lawmakers on Thursday that the procurement programme should begin before the end of June and that transactions for the first 1 000 MW of Refit capacity should be concluded by year-end." Extracted from this Engineering News article
Manuel wants $100bn Green Climate Fund finalised by Dec
More, here on Engineering News.
Manuel urges Africa to start identifying Climate Fund projects - More here, on Engineering News.
Manuel urges Africa to start identifying Climate Fund projects - More here, on Engineering News.
Mittal sets aside billions to meet SA’s tightening enviro limits
How much time do you spend using your cell phone and other wireless devices?
Have you ever heard about the Electromagnetic Radiation Research Foundation of South Africa? Check out their website here. What about "electrosmog" (read this interesting Daily Mail article)?
For what appears to be a fairly unbiased article on the topic, read this Time magazine article.
Many agree that we should consider limiting our (or, if not ours, atleast our children's) long term exposure to cellphone masts, cellphones, Wi-fi and other wireless devices, atleast until conclusive evidence proves there is no increased risk of developing brain cancer, and other disorders as a result of extensive / regular exposure to these devices.
For what appears to be a fairly unbiased article on the topic, read this Time magazine article.
Many agree that we should consider limiting our (or, if not ours, atleast our children's) long term exposure to cellphone masts, cellphones, Wi-fi and other wireless devices, atleast until conclusive evidence proves there is no increased risk of developing brain cancer, and other disorders as a result of extensive / regular exposure to these devices.
Eskom seeks to reward household energy-saving champions
A new award category - energy savings in households - has been added to the 2011 Eskom Eta awards, which recognise energy efficiency innovations and achievements.
The new category would seek to acknowledge and reward those individuals who have implemented innovative energy efficiency applications at home, with the winner to receive R30 000, and the runner-up R5 000. Entries close Aug 10th 2011. Extracted from this Engineering News Article.
Nominations sought for 2011 energy awards - More here on Engineering News
The new category would seek to acknowledge and reward those individuals who have implemented innovative energy efficiency applications at home, with the winner to receive R30 000, and the runner-up R5 000. Entries close Aug 10th 2011. Extracted from this Engineering News Article.
Nominations sought for 2011 energy awards - More here on Engineering News
Automotive News
SA mulls support for electric vehicles, draws up position paper - "It appears unlikely that South African consumers will secure special incentives or tax breaks to buy electric vehicles (EVs), as has been the case in many developed countries in the world. While government says it is seeking to support this new technology, it cautions that it will have to find other mechanisms to do so than what has become the norm in countries with deeper pockets." MOre here, on Engineering News
First green BMW dealership hopes for 30% cut in electricity costs - Engineering News
NMMU to build solar car, VW to provide sponsorship - "The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s (NMMU’s) Advanced Mechatronic Technology Centre(AMTC), and the Volkswagen Group/DAAD International Chair in the School of Engineering at the university, have initiated a project to design and build a solar car to compete in the biennial South African Solar Challenge in 2012."...."The challenge sees participants from all over the world compete in a two-week race, driving solar-powered vehicles across South Africa."...."The 2012 event will be the third race on local soil, and has, to date, been dominated by Japanese teams." Extracted from this Engineering News article.
New EfficientDynamics measures on BMW 3 Series cut fuel use further - Engineering News
Eastern Cape auto sector receives R7m green production boost - Engineering News
Fuel costs now higher than some vehicle installments? Read this Engineering News article.
First green BMW dealership hopes for 30% cut in electricity costs - Engineering News
NMMU to build solar car, VW to provide sponsorship - "The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s (NMMU’s) Advanced Mechatronic Technology Centre(AMTC), and the Volkswagen Group/DAAD International Chair in the School of Engineering at the university, have initiated a project to design and build a solar car to compete in the biennial South African Solar Challenge in 2012."...."The challenge sees participants from all over the world compete in a two-week race, driving solar-powered vehicles across South Africa."...."The 2012 event will be the third race on local soil, and has, to date, been dominated by Japanese teams." Extracted from this Engineering News article.
New EfficientDynamics measures on BMW 3 Series cut fuel use further - Engineering News
Eastern Cape auto sector receives R7m green production boost - Engineering News
Fuel costs now higher than some vehicle installments? Read this Engineering News article.
Norway to build northernmost green energy building
A planned building in Norway will be at the most northern location so far to generate more energy than it uses, demonstrating that "green" buildings can work anywhere, its backers said on Friday. Engineering News
Brazil, SA, India and China want Kyoto Protocol extended
"As Ministers of the Brazil, South Africa, India, China (Basic) grouping met to firm their position before further global climate change negotiating sessions, they reiterated that a second commitment period to the Kyoto Protocol was central to a comprehensive outcome at the 17th conference of the parties COP17) in Durban in November, and December."..."The next Basic Ministerial meeting was scheduled for August, and would be held in Brazil."..."COP 17 will be held from November 28 to December 9 in Durban." Extracted from this Engineering News article
10 reasons to go organic
For more detail, check out this Urban Sprout article:
1. Rid your body (and the environment) of toxins
2. Boost your immune system
3. Enjoy the taste
4. Care for animals
5. No GM
6. Trust our food again
7. Fight Global warming
8. Promote biodiversity
9. protect future generations
10. support organic farmers.
1. Rid your body (and the environment) of toxins
2. Boost your immune system
3. Enjoy the taste
4. Care for animals
5. No GM
6. Trust our food again
7. Fight Global warming
8. Promote biodiversity
9. protect future generations
10. support organic farmers.
fairtrade sales in sa reached R18,4 million in 2010
Fairtrade Label South Africa (FLSA) is the local marketing organisation for Fairtradee and aims to alleviate rural poverty and to empower small-scale farmers and disadvantaged workers primarily in Africa by creating market opportunities for increasing sales of Fairtrade labelled products in South Africa. More, in this Urban Sprout article
SA won’t finalise existing Karoo fracking applications ahead of probe
More, here on Engineering News
Eskom reduces power supply to BHP to manage system
Eskom's spokeswoman Hilary Joffe said on Monday that under a special pricing agreement signed between the utility and BHP in the 1980s Eskom can temporarily interrupt supplies to the smelters, but only for up to two hours a week. Engineering News
Monday, May 9, 2011
News Snippets
Climate change has spurred food prices – study - Engineering News
CSP technology group Brightsource keen to develop projects in SA - Engineering News
African leaders push for firm climate guidelines - Engineering News
Photovoltaic Refit tariff competitive, says Amonix - Engineering News
Renewable energy developers say new tariffs could halt investments - Engineering News
Corruption could undermine climate remedy actions, TI report states - Engineering News
CMH to save up to R7m with waterless car wash system - Engineering News
CSP technology group Brightsource keen to develop projects in SA - Engineering News
African leaders push for firm climate guidelines - Engineering News
Photovoltaic Refit tariff competitive, says Amonix - Engineering News
Renewable energy developers say new tariffs could halt investments - Engineering News
Corruption could undermine climate remedy actions, TI report states - Engineering News
CMH to save up to R7m with waterless car wash system - Engineering News
Monday, May 2, 2011
Eskom to lower solar water heater rebate at the end of April
"State-owned power utility Eskom has confirmed that it would reduce the rebate level on its solar water heater (SWH) programme, which falls within energy efficiency initiatives in the Integrated Demand Management (IDM) unit.
SWH supplier Selected Energy, which installs Solahart products, on Wednesday urged potential SWH customers to place orders for a system before the current favourable rebate was lowered by the end of April.
“Only solar water heaters that have been installed before April 29, 2011 - with valid and complete claims that must be received by May 13, 2011 - will qualify for the old rebate,” said Selected Energy.
The company further explained that, depending on the SWH system, the reduction would be as much as R5 000 or R6 000." More here, on Engineering News
SWH supplier Selected Energy, which installs Solahart products, on Wednesday urged potential SWH customers to place orders for a system before the current favourable rebate was lowered by the end of April.
“Only solar water heaters that have been installed before April 29, 2011 - with valid and complete claims that must be received by May 13, 2011 - will qualify for the old rebate,” said Selected Energy.
The company further explained that, depending on the SWH system, the reduction would be as much as R5 000 or R6 000." More here, on Engineering News
Renewable Energy News
150 kW Romano PV installation at Pick ’n Pay distribution centre - Engineering News
Renewable energy associations urge govt to continue with Refit - Engineering News
DTI-led initiative to leverage global finance for renewable energy - Engineering News
Renewable energy associations urge govt to continue with Refit - Engineering News
DTI-led initiative to leverage global finance for renewable energy - Engineering News
Thursday, April 28, 2011
China raises bar for polluters in restructuring plan
"China's top economic planning agency on Tuesday published a detailed list of industries that it would encourage, restrict or ban, a blueprint that could have a far-reaching impact on investment activity in China over the coming years.
The 111-page list published by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) ratcheted up the minimum size requirement for coal mines, oil refineries and steelmaking blast furnaces while lending support to alternative energy sources." Engineering News
The 111-page list published by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) ratcheted up the minimum size requirement for coal mines, oil refineries and steelmaking blast furnaces while lending support to alternative energy sources." Engineering News
News Snippets
Pan African Parliament consultant fined for incorrect wetland info - More, here on Engineering News
Mining & the Environment - Ministers to talk about possible MPRDA amendments - More on Engineering News
Sessa analysing implications of Eskom SWH rebate cut - More here, on Engineering News
Extending Kyoto Protocol critical – Molewa - More, here on Engineering News
Cabinet backs Karoo natural-gas drilling moratorium - Engineering News
Mining & the Environment - Ministers to talk about possible MPRDA amendments - More on Engineering News
Sessa analysing implications of Eskom SWH rebate cut - More here, on Engineering News
Extending Kyoto Protocol critical – Molewa - More, here on Engineering News
Cabinet backs Karoo natural-gas drilling moratorium - Engineering News
Biogas project launched to assist with power supply in rural SA
"In an effort to improve the lives of people living in rural South Africa, Trade plus Aid (TPA) on Monday launched the South African arm of Swiss biogas technology solutions company Acrona.
Acrona South Africa, in which TPA has a 50% vested interest, will manufacture micro gas turbines and other related products, with its first project being the TPA agricultural biogas project, which would be used to implement domestic biogas projects throughout the impoverished rural areas of South Africa." More here, on Engineering News
Acrona South Africa, in which TPA has a 50% vested interest, will manufacture micro gas turbines and other related products, with its first project being the TPA agricultural biogas project, which would be used to implement domestic biogas projects throughout the impoverished rural areas of South Africa." More here, on Engineering News
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