Where will COP29 be held, and what dilemmas does it bring?

03.11.2024

dario-daniel-silva-ka5GnsV9CTk-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (dario-daniel-silva)

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (spaceview)

The United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2024 will be held in Azerbaijan. From November 11 to 22, global climate discussions will take place at the stadium in Baku, focusing on climate action plans.

The previous COP28 ran from November 30 to December 13, 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. That event drew criticism due to the choice of location, as the dialogue was hosted in a country high on the list of major oil producers. This year, similar criticisms have emerged. For some groups and organizations, the venue and agenda raise a mismatch in climate priorities.

While Azerbaijan has a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2050 and aims for green energy to comprise 30 percent of its energy mix by 2030, the country’s significant natural resources, particularly in oil and natural gas, cannot be overlooked.

Oil production occurs both onshore and offshore in the Caspian Sea. The largest oil field lies about 100 km east of Baku, encompassing several reservoirs situated at depths between 2000 and 3500 meters below the Caspian seabed.

In addition to oil, Azerbaijan holds substantial natural gas reserves, with extraction expected to continue over the coming decades with some increases anticipated.

Such significant fossil fuel reserves pose a challenge for Azerbaijan: how to balance economic growth based on exploiting these resources with global efforts to protect the climate and transition to renewable energy.

However, the United Arab Emirates, last year’s host, plans to expand fossil fuel production significantly, and the same is true for Brazil, the COP30 host. Economic goals risk undermining trust in climate negotiations.

The discrepancy between certain host countries’ energy policies and climate goals has raised questions about the effectiveness of global climate talks.

The international community, especially nations most affected by climate change, expects hosts to lead by example in achieving ambitious climate goals, but questions remain about whether this is fully achievable in these countries.

Energy portal

Serbia’s Green Challenges

03.11.2024

Image-by-Stevan-Aksentijevic-from-Pixabay — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Stevan-Aksentijevic)

Foto-illustration: Pixabay (Jerzy-Górecki)

Energy transition in Serbia is a complex process that unfolds amidst economic, political, and technological challenges. The National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan sets goals such as achieving a 33.6 percent share of renewable energy in gross final consumption by 2030. On the other hand, the Energy Development Strategy envisions that by 2050, the domestic energy sector will be as carbon-neutral as possible.

However, Ognjan Pantić from the Belgrade Open School highlights that these goals lack ambition and are not aligned with the obligations of the Paris Climate Agreement, the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, and the Energy Community. A lack of political will, slow implementation of laws, and heavy reliance on coal, which accounts for 70 percent of Serbia’s total electricity production, further complicate achieving these goals.

“It is necessary to accelerate the transition to renewable energy through investments in green infrastructure and the modernization of the energy grid. Increasing energy efficiency is also crucial, requiring better support programs for households and industry. Adjusting the legal framework in line with European standards is essential to facilitate a faster transition to clean energy. Progress is visible but insufficient. Serbia uses some renewable energy sources, such as hydropower and wind farm construction. Still, this process needs to be sped up, particularly by expanding the use of solar energy, especially by supporting the establishment of energy cooperatives that involve entire communities in energy production and democratize the coal transition process,” Mr Pantić emphasizes.

IN FOCUS:

Pollution and Air

Quality Air pollution is a serious problem in Serbia, which is still considered an ecological blind spot in Europe. Coal-fired power plants significantly contribute to the emission of harmful gases, negatively affecting citizens’ health and the quality of the environment.

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Erich-Westendarp)

“Serbia must align its regulations with EU standards, which include stricter emission regulations, more efficient pollution monitoring, and penalties for violations. It is essential to inform citizens about the benefits of the energy transition. Public discussions, such as the current one on the Energy Development Strategy until 2030, should be more comprehensive. The trend of organizing public consultations during holiday seasons is not in line with the principles of the Aarhus Convention, which is based on transparency and public participation in environmental decision-making,” says Mr Pantić. He adds that investments are needed in developing green technologies and creating new jobs in the renewable energy sector. This would simultaneously contribute to economic development and pollution reduction.

According to the latest data, air quality in Serbia has not significantly improved. Over 20 cities and agglomerations, home to more than four million people, are facing excessive pollution. The largest emitters of pollutants are heating plants and individual heating systems, while the industrial sector and coal-fired power plants also contribute to PM2.5 and PM10 particle emissions.

“The first step toward clean air for all was taken, though belatedly, at the end of 2022, when the National Air Protection Program with an Action Plan was officially adopted.

The vision outlined in this document is that by 2030, Serbian citizens will breathe clean air, which requires significant financial resources and ambitious measures. A key measure is the replacement of existing heating systems in households with new devices that comply with eco-design standards and heat pumps. Financial incentives need to be provided for this, and the priority cities are Kragujevac, Belgrade, Niš, Valjevo, and Užice,” our interlocutor explains.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (ivan-aleksic)

It seems that citizens are becoming increasingly aware of air pollution issues, and their pressure, combined with the contributions of the media, civil society organizations, activists, and the expert community, has led to some progress in air protection policies over the past few years. The focus is slowly shifting from air quality measurement to measures for cleaner air.

In all these changes, the views and opinions of young people can be of great importance. Research conducted by the National Youth Council of Serbia and UNICEF through the U-Report survey and the WWF Adria study, The Untapped Potential of Youth in Decision-Making, indicates that young people in Serbia are concerned and interested in environmental issues. Environmental protection has been recognized as one of the top three most important areas in today’s society. Although young people are aware of the problems and the poor state of the environment, they are often insufficiently informed about international agreements and just energy transition. There is frequent criticism of the education system, with young people frequently voicing dissatisfaction with the lack of focus on environmental issues in the school curriculum. Educating youth about the just energy transition should take place through communication channels familiar to them, such as social media (Instagram, TikTok, etc.), using language tailored to this target group.

Prepared by Milica Radičević

The story was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ENERGY TRANSITION

Solar Energy and Sustainable Business

02.11.2024

The importance and inevitability of the energy transition, especially in periods of energy crisis, have become clear to many in various social and economic circles – from businessmen to religious communities. This trend is also confirmed by MT-KOMEX, which has proven its commitment to renewable energy sources through numerous projects. After constructing a 50 kW solar power plant at the Žiča monastery, MT-KOMEX confirmed the previous thesis by realizing another project at one of the most important Serbian monasteries – Manasija.

In addition, it has lined up its other ventures, many of which were located in Vojvodina, where the company has already proven why it is a leader in renewable energy sources several times. One of the significant projects of the company, MT-KOMEX, was realized in Kikinda, where an innovative solar solution was used. The project in question was implemented according to the turnkey system and is one of the indicators of the company’s strategic position in the market of renewable sources. The turnkey system includes all phases of construction and commissioning of the solar power plant, from design and delivery to assembly and final system testing. This approach allows clients like Jaffa to get a fully functional and operational solar power plant.

IN FOCUS:

This way of operating makes this model extremely attractive for companies striving for a fast energy transition, as it enables efficient and quick adaptation to sustainable energy practices, reducing the time and costs needed to switch to renewable energy sources. The solar power plant on the ground, located on the premises of the Banini factory in Kikinda, is an example of the efficient use of renewable energy. High-quality Canadian solar panels of 650wp were used for construction. These panels enable maximum efficiency in converting sunlight into electricity. In addition, using a 20 kW Fronius Symo inverter contributes to optimal energy conversion and distribution. Regarding the construction on which the panels are placed, the Turkish manufacturer Kıraç Metal was chosen, which guarantees high standards in production and installation. The planned annual production of this solar power plant is 780 MWh of electricity, which will significantly contribute to the safe and reliable supply of the plant’s operations.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (
Mariana Proença)

In addition, the transition to green energy brings significant environmental benefits. It is expected that carbon dioxide emissions will be reduced by 719 tons per year. This saving in CO2 emissions not only contributes to the preservation of the environment but also helps to meet the goals of sustainable development and climate neutrality. The solar power plant in Kikinda is being connected and will soon acquire buyer-producer status. This status will enable the investor to produce energy for his own needs and hand over excess electricity to the distribution system according to the aforementioned principle, thus contributing to his energy stability in the long run.

By implementing green projects, local communities get the opportunity to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions, which reduce dependence on fossil fuels and improve the quality of the environment of our cities. However, projects like this still send another message: the importance of sustainable business, which is increasingly being applied in Serbia, as the company MT-KOMEX witnesses daily. The expert team of MT-KOMEX is always ready to take on new challenges in constructing solar power plants. This is evidenced by their portfolio of over 200 built solar power plants whose total installed power exceeds 140 MW. The company’s well-coordinated team is ready to respond to all client requests and build the most efficient power plant.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ENERGY TRANSITION

Electric Vehicle as an Energy Storage Solution

01.11.2024

auto punjenje — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (chuttersnap)

Electric vehicles (EVs) hold untapped potential to enhance the shift to clean energy and transform the energy system. Findings from a study by the Fraunhofer ISI and ISE Institutes, published by Transport & Environment, reveal that implementing bidirectional charging could turn electric vehicles into so-called virtual power plants, while also delivering significant economic benefits.

Bidirectional charging technology enables electric vehicles to both draw power from the grid while charging and return power back to the grid when needed. This technology allows EV owners not only to charge their vehicles but also to feed electricity back into the power grid or into their own homes.

How Does Bidirectional Charging Work, and Why Is It Beneficial?

Unlike fast charging, which is necessary at public chargers, bidirectional charging is particularly advantageous for home use. When an electric vehicle charges, it draws power from the grid or from solar panels if the household has them. When the vehicle does not use all the energy stored in the battery, this energy can be returned to the grid or used to power the home, essentially turning the electric vehicle into an energy storage unit.

Several benefits make bidirectional charging highly advantageous:

Economic Benefit – When electricity is fed back into the grid at times when prices are high, users can be compensated for that energy. Additionally, if the stored energy is used to power the home, electricity costs are reduced during high-price periods.

Promoting Renewable Energy Use – When solar panels generate more electricity than needed, that excess energy can be stored in the vehicle’s battery and then returned for household use as needed. This further reduces CO2 emissions and supports renewable energy adoption. Research indicates that bidirectional charging could encourage an additional 430 GW of solar capacity by 2040, almost double the current capacity of the European Union.

Grid Stabilization – If a large number of EV users adopted bidirectional charging, it would help stabilize the national power grid. During periods of high electricity demand, vehicles can return energy back to the grid, preventing overload.

Longer Battery Life – Bidirectional charging has been shown to extend the battery life of electric vehicles by up to nine percent compared to standard charging methods.

Energy portal

Strategic Proposal Package for the European Green Deal Presented

31.10.2024

unnamed (1) — Grow green trees on money in soft light energy saving bulbs with the idea of economic growth and world environment day.

At the General Assembly of the Green Economy, held as part of the Ecomondo fair in Rimini on November 5th and 6th, a package of eight key strategic proposals for advancing the European Green Deal was presented.

The initiative by the National Council for the Green Economy, in collaboration with Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy Security and supported by the European Commission, aims to promote the transition to a sustainable economy and increase engagement in areas covering climate action, renewable energy, circular economy, and sustainable mobility.

“The European Green Deal brings wide-ranging changes to address two key crises – climate challenges and the shortage of natural resources,” stated Edo Ronchi, President of the Foundation for Sustainable Development. With positive results in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving resource efficiency, Ronchi emphasizes the need to continue energy efficiency measures and invest further.

The proposals cover the following key points:

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Joshua Woroniecki)

Commitment to Climate Goals – The EU has successfully reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 29 percent from 1990 to 2023. With the current trend of a five percent reduction in 2023, the goal of a 55 percent reduction by 2030 is achievable, alongside technological and economic benefits.

Energy Efficiency – Long-term support is needed to improve building energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. Italy and other high-debt countries require a European guarantee for long-term loans and support for low-income households. An information campaign to reduce energy costs is also necessary.

Renewable Energy Sources – Promotion of all renewable energy sources, including biogas, to achieve energy security.

Sustainable Mobility – Improving public transport, cycling infrastructure, and electric transportation in cities.

Circular Economy – Strengthening the market for secondary materials through new regulations and encouraging the bio-economy.

Preservation of Natural Capital – Promoting organic practices in agriculture that contribute to the conservation of natural resources.

Company Inclusion – Support for small and medium-sized enterprises in implementing ecological standards.

Financial Support – New European financial instruments to encourage private investment in sustainable development.

These strategic proposals will be submitted to European and Italian institutions with the aim of contributing to the development of sustainable policies and providing support for Europe’s green transition.

Energetski portal

Naturhus – A Sustainable Oasis in the Heart of Nature

31.10.2024

Morning in a house nestled in the heart of the forest. Waking up to sun rays breaking through the tree canopy, with fresh air filled with the scents and sounds of forest biodiversity. While nature offers its unique charm, it’s essential to remember that the air temperature in such areas is colder, especially during harsh winters.

Now imagine that glass walls surround your house, isolating you from the cold and potential dangers that the forest may bring, yet allowing you to be surrounded by nature and all the benefits it provides.

One family in Sweden decided on precisely this concept—a home built within a greenhouse. Beyond its intriguing architectural appeal, this structure offers numerous advantages. Known as Naturhus, this concept could be described as a blend of art, enjoyment, practicality, and ecology. It’s designed to provide a luxurious lifestyle with minimal energy consumption, all while creating a sustainable ecosystem.

**What are the benefits of Naturhus?**

In a world facing climate change, energy efficiency has become one of the most pressing issues. Thanks to the greenhouse surrounding the house, heat retention is more efficient, with reports suggesting that energy consumption for heating can be reduced by up to 30 percent. New technologies allow for standard solar panels on the greenhouse roof, and innovations have introduced solar windows, solar blinds, and other options. This setup further enhances energy efficiency and reduces emissions. Automated ventilation systems are also built into the greenhouse, regulating temperature and humidity within the space.

When it comes to water, several sustainable options stand out. Rainwater is collected from the greenhouse roof and stored in underground tanks. This collected water is used for plant irrigation, providing the necessary moisture. Additionally, the need for synthetic fertilizers is reduced, as plants obtain nutrients from wastewater. Rainwater can also be used for toilet flushing.

The conditions within this greenhouse, similar to those in agricultural greenhouses, create favorable settings for growing fruits and vegetables. Beyond these benefits, Naturhus contributes to biodiversity by creating a micro-ecosystem that attracts beneficial insects like bees. This design helps plants better withstand extreme weather conditions, such as droughts or floods.

These listed benefits are just a few of the many possibilities that the Naturhus concept offers. While most of us may never have the chance to afford such a home, it serves as inspiration to think about how we can make our spaces more sustainable.

Katarina Vuinac

EU Imported Solar Panels Worth 19.7 Billion Euros in 2023

30.10.2024

solar-panel-g20da084fd_1920 — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (

As the European Union pursues its energy transition and sustainable energy goals, Eurostat data for 2023 reveals the current state of green technology imports and exports, focusing primarily on solar panels, wind turbines, and biofuels, confirming the growing demand for renewable energy sources. However, certain economic challenges persist as the EU aims to increase its production and usage of sustainable energy, while a significant imbalance between the import and export of green products remains.

In 2023, the EU imported considerably more of certain products than it exported, indicating a strong dependence on international markets for specific technologies. Solar panel imports amounted to 19.7 billion euros, liquid biofuel imports to 3.9 billion euros, while wind turbines were imported at a value of only 0.3 billion euros.

Despite a 12 percent decrease in the import value of solar panels compared to the previous year, the quantity of imported panels increased by five percent. This drop in value can be attributed to falling prices, suggesting improved affordability and potentially greater market competition. China dominates as the main source of solar panel imports, accounting for a staggering 98 percent of the total, making the EU highly dependent on Chinese solar technology.

Regarding exports, the EU recorded a 19 percent increase in the export value of solar panels, with quantities rising by 37 percent. Switzerland was the largest individual importer, accounting for 31 percent of EU solar panel exports, followed by the United Kingdom with 25 percent, highlighting the growing demand for EU solar technology in some of the most developed European economies outside the EU.

In contrast to solar panels, wind turbines showed the opposite trend – the EU exported far more than it imported, with exports totaling 2.0 billion euros compared to imports of just 0.3 billion euros. Wind turbine exports saw the highest value growth, increasing by 49 percent, with the United Kingdom emerging as the leading market for these products. This suggests that the EU holds a competitive edge in wind technology on the global stage. Meanwhile, the liquid biofuel market faced challenges, with both import and export values and volumes declining.

Although the EU has made progress in developing trade in green energy, it is evident that the bloc remains dependent on imports, particularly from China, which presents a strategic challenge moving forward.

Energetski portal

Vienna on the Path to Climate Neutrality

30.10.2024

vienna-reyes--unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Vienna Reyes)

Climate change indeed requires a collective effort, and we all have a role to play in reducing our impact on the environment. Vienna is one of the leading European cities in environmental protection and climate policy. The city is known for its ambitious plans for sustainable development, including energy, transportation, and waste management changes.

Vienna is focusing on transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving building energy efficiency, developing public transport and bicycle lanes, and implementing green initiatives such as urban parks and green roofs. Public enterprises play a crucial role in this process, each contributing in its way to the shared goal.

Green Energy for All

Vienna’s citizens can participate in the energy transition and the expansion of renewable energy sources through the solar power plants operated by Wien Energie, thereby contributing to a sustainable energy future without the need to install their own solar panels. The model works in a simple way. Wien Energie builds and operates solar plants, and customers can participate symbolically in the project by purchasing solar packages. The price of one solar package was last set at 250 euros. Participants receive vouchers over five years for the energy produced, which they can use, for example, against their annual electricity bill settlement. The amount of compensation in vouchers depends on the amount of energy produced, and participants can monitor the production in real-time via an online dashboard. Nevertheless, a minimum annual production is guaranteed to ensure that users benefit. This offer has been very well received; 30 such power plants have been built to date, and more than 12,000 households have participated in these projects.

The solar power plant contingent, launched in spring 2024 on the roof of a bus garage, sold out within one day.

IN FOCUS:

Energy and Climate Transition

With a bus powered by a combination of batteries and hydrogen, Vienna’s public transport company, Wiener Linien, continues its commitment to new, environmentally friendly technologies. In February this year, a new competence center for electromobility was opened, and six bus lines have already fully transitioned to electric power. The plan is for nine bus lines to switch to electric power by the end of 2025. In addition to new small buses with range extender technology, hydrogen-only buses will be introduced in 2025. Ten 12-meter buses, adapted for people with disabilities and reduced mobility, will in the future be refueled with hydrogen at stations operated by Wien Energie and Wiener Netze.

To achieve climate neutrality and adapt to climate change, the Climate Department was established in Vienna. It manages strategic climate policies, the implementation of the Vienna Climate Strategy, and the Vienna Climate Budget. Jürgen Czernohorszky, a member of the Vienna City Government Council for Climate, Environment, Democracy, and Personnel, explained how they are realizing their ideas.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Jacek Dylag)

“The energy and climate transition concerns all of us and can only succeed through collective efforts. We must work together to make Vienna climate-neutral and maintain its high quality of life. We are setting strategic initiatives that raise awareness of a holistic culture of a climate-neutral, resilient, and circular city. Only through joint efforts can the city achieve its ambitious climate goals. We openly address challenges, engage with citizens, and offer targeted education on climate change for both young and old. Climate change education explains cause-and-effect relationships and shows how the climate transition can succeed. Through the Vienna Climate Team, we have enabled citizens to present their ideas for a better climate in their neighborhoods and implement them with city experts. A representative group of residents in each district decides which projects will be implemented with the available financial resources. We also work closely with NGOs and local multipliers to create synergies and learn from each other,” says Mr Czernohorszky.

Vienna’s climate plan includes measures in areas such as mobility, energy, the circular economy, and public services. As our interviewee highlights, Vienna advocates for socially just climate protection that leaves no one behind.

“Vienna’s Heating Plan for 2040, published in May, offers, for the first time, a concrete target showing how the heating supply for buildings could look without the use of fossil fuels by 2040. The plan considers the entire building stock in the city, indicating where district heating could be expanded (which will be fully climate-neutral by 2040) and where other solutions will be needed. In Vienna, great importance is placed on the exemplary role of the public sector, especially in renovating public buildings,” explains Mr Czernohorszky.

Prepared by Jasna Dragojević

The story was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ENERGY TRANSITION

Tax Hikes Hinder Gas Price Drop, Raise Electricity Costs

29.10.2024

Gas freepik — Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

In the first half of 2024, average household electricity prices in the EU recorded a small rise compared with the second half of 2023, from 28.3 euros per 100 kWh to 28.9 euros per 100 kWh.

Despite reductions in the cost of energy, supply and network services (-2 percent compared to second half of 2023), total prices slightly increased (+2 percent), as governments scaled back subsidies, allowances, and tax cuts for consumers (total taxes rose by 16 percent, from the second half of 2023). Compared with the first half of 2023 (29.4 euros per 100 kWh), prices saw a minor decline.

Average gas prices fell by 7 percent, compared with the same period in 2023, from 11.9 euros per 100 kWh to 11 euros per 100 kWh. They are also lower by 2 percent than the second half of 2023 (11.3 euros per 100 kWh). When considering the same prices without taxes, they decreased by 12 percent and by 10 percent, respectively.

Compared with the first half of 2023, the share of taxes in electricity bills rose from 18.5 percent to 24.3 percent, up 5.8 percentage points (pp), while it went up from 22.8 percent to 27.4 percent (+4.6 pp) in the gas bill.

This information comes from data on electricity and gas prices published recently by Eurostat. The article presents a handful of findings from the more detailed Statistics Explained articles on electricity prices and on natural gas prices.

Sharp difference in electricity prices for households

The highest electricity prices including taxes for household consumers in the first semester of 2024 were found in Germany (39.5 euros per 100 kWh), followed by Ireland (37.4 euros) and Denmark (37.1 euros).

At the other end of the scale, Hungarian households had the lowest electricity prices (10.9 euros per 100 kWh), followed by Bulgaria (11.9 euros) and Malta (12.6 euros).

In national currency, for the first half of 2024, compared with the same period one year before, household electricity prices, including taxes, decreased in 16 EU countries and increased in 11. Price decreases were partly offset by reducing or removing consumer alleviation measures at national level.

Gas prices decreased for most EU countries

Between the first half of 2023 and the first half of 2024, household gas prices, including taxes, fell in 15 out of the 24 EU countries that report gas prices.

Gas prices (in national currencies) dropped the most in Lithuania (-60 percent), Greece (-39 percent), and Estonia (-37 percent). By contrast, among the countries registering an increase, the price went up the most in Italy (+16 percent), France (+13 percent) and Romania (+7 percent), while the price remained unchanged in Slovenia.

In the industry sector, all countries reported decreases in gas prices, highlighting a definitive downward trend across the EU.

Source: Eurostat

EU: Revenues from Emissions Trading Invested in Green Projects

29.10.2024

aerozagađenje-air pollution - zagađenje vazduha — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Ella Ivanescu)

The European Commission has selected 85 innovative projects aimed at achieving net-zero emissions, which will receive 4.8 billion euros in grants from the Innovation Fund. This is the largest call since the fund’s inception in 2020, raising the total support value to 12 billion euros and increasing the number of supported projects by 70 percent.

With projected revenues of 40 billion euros from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) between 2020 and 2030, the Innovation Fund is designed to provide financial incentives for companies and public authorities to invest in advanced low- and net-zero-carbon technologies, supporting Europe’s transition to climate neutrality.

The selected projects span 18 countries, including Belgium, Germany, Croatia, and Finland, and cover diverse sectors: energy-intensive industries, renewable energy, energy storage, carbon management, sustainable mobility, and construction. The goal is for these projects to become operational by 2030, potentially reducing CO2 emissions by around 476 million tons over the first ten years.

The chosen projects align with the Net-Zero Industry Act and focus on the development of clean technologies in areas such as wind and solar energy, heat pumps, electrolyzers, fuel cells, energy storage, and batteries. They aim to increase Europe’s solar energy capacity by three gigawatts and electrolyzer capacity by 9.3 GW.

In energy-intensive industries, supported technologies will reduce emissions through the use of renewable energy, recycling, heat storage, and electrification. Carbon management projects are expected to enable the storage of 50 million tons of CO2 annually from hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as cement and chemical production.

In the field of renewable hydrogen, the goal is to produce 61 kilotons of renewable fuel annually for industrial and transport applications. Net-zero mobility projects will reduce emissions in maritime and road transport, with plans to produce 525 kilotons of sustainable fuels per year.

Experts evaluated the projects based on emission reductions, innovation, maturity, replicability, and cost-efficiency. Funding agreements will be signed in the first quarter of 2025, and the next call for projects is expected in December 2024.

Energetski portal

EBRD Supports Croatia’s Largest Solar Power Plant Operated by Hrvatska Elektroprivreda

28.10.2024

solar-cell-4045029_1280 — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Bru-nO)

For the construction and future operation of the “Korlat” solar power plant in Croatia, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a loan of up to 31.6 million euros to Hrvatska Elektroprivreda d.d. (HEP). The planned solar power plant, with an installed capacity that can reach up to 99 MW, will significantly contribute to HEP’s decarbonization strategy. The project is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 28,899 tons annually, improving environmental quality and decreasing dependency on fossil fuels.

As highlighted by Grzegorz Zielinski, EBRD’s Director for Energy for Europe, this project will be the largest solar power plant in HEP’s renewable energy portfolio. The “Korlat” power plant plays a pivotal role in showcasing renewable energy as a sustainable solution to replace fossil fuels, driving the country’s energy transition towards cleaner energy sources. The project also supports Croatia’s ambitious renewable energy targets for 2030.

To date, the EBRD has made substantial investments in Croatia, channeling more than 4.7 euros billion through 252 projects. A significant portion of the institution’s financing is directed towards the development of a green economy.

According to OIE Croatia, solar capacities saw the most significant growth among all renewable energy technologies in 2023, reflecting the country’s increasing interest in solar energy. If this positive trend continues, estimates suggest that Croatia’s total solar capacity could reach around 969 MW by January 2025.

Projects such as the “Korlat” power plant are of particular importance to Croatia, especially considering that the country imported substantial amounts of electricity this summer to meet demand. This situation underscores the urgent need to accelerate the development and implementation of domestic renewable energy capacities to reduce reliance on imports.

Energetski portal

K2 WallPV – the System Solution for Solar Projects on Building Facades

27.10.2024

K2-WallPV-CarrierRail-building — Photo: K2 Systems

The new mounting systems from K2 add another dimension to the areas that can be used to generate energy. This is because they allow systematic and therefore fast PV installation on facades.

Most of the parts required for this are already well known, as the K2 development team has realised a clever modular system with only a few new elements.

The K2 WallPV systems consist of a few tried-and-tested roof components and a few newly developed products.

The K2 WallPV systems can be used on a variety of façade claddings and are available in three versions:

THE K2 WALLPV FACADERAIL offers a first-class solution for facades made of solid masonry or concrete, as well as those in combination with rainscreen cladding and external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS). The versatility of this system is particularly evident in its ability to be connected to the most common façade brackets.

THE K2 WALLPV CARRIERRAIL offers a solution for installation on facades, particularly on large commercial buildings fitted with FischerTHERM Carrier® and MONTANATHERM sandwich panels. This innovative installation solution is not only approved by the building authorities, but is also characterised by its high installation speed.

IN FOCUS:

THE K2 WALLPV MULTIRAIL offers a versatile solution for installation on facades with trapezoidal sheet metal or corrugated sheet metal. This proven mounting solution utilises building authority approved thin sheet metal screws to ensure secure and reliable fixing.

The InsertionRail of the K2 WallPV MultiRail allows this system to be scaled up enormously in professional commercial construction. For smaller installations in workshops or mixed-use buildings, the K2 WallPV MultiRail also offers the flexibility and efficiency of the FacadeClamp module clamps.

Scalable modular components enable large-scale PV systems for sustainable energy generation, taking us a big step forward in the energy transition. What makes vertical PV systems even more attractive is that they have lower operating temperatures. And snow, leaves and rainwater do not remain on the modules. In addition, the yield can be even higher than with horizontally aligned PV systems due to the low position of the sun in winter.

So there are many good reasons in favour of these cleverly designed facade systems!

K2 Systems

Read the whole interview in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ENERGY TRANSITION

Many Everyday Items Are Filled With Toxic Lead – Here Is How to Change That

27.10.2024

baterije — Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

Lead may be present in everything from cookware and cosmetics to paint and plumbing. Yet there is no safe level of exposure to the heavy metal, which causes more than 1.5 million deaths annually and can trigger developmental disorders in children. Lead particles contaminate the air, water and soil, reducing crop productivity and harming biodiversity. Lead also disproportionately harms those in low- and middle-income countries.

Renewed collaboration between governments and the private sector to strengthen policymaking, bolster research and identify non-lead alternatives can curb lead’s toxic toll, experts say. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) plays a key role in one such initiative: the Partnership for a Lead-Free Future. Launched at the UN General Assembly in September, it aims to end childhood lead poisoning by 2040. The push builds upon UNEP’s successful 20-year campaign to end leaded fuel and its leadership in the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint.

“The evidence about the dangers of lead has long been clear. It is unacceptable that we live on a planet where one in three children is affected by lead poisoning,” said Jacqueline Alvarez, Chief of the Chemicals and Health Branch of UNEP. “Collectively, we have made great strides in reducing lead pollution and poisoning from fuel and paint, but this is not enough. We need to enhance regulations, bolster research for alternatives and ensure sound industrial processes and supply chains if we want to protect human health and the environment.”

As the world marks the 12th annual International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, here are four common items that can contain lead and how the toxic substance can be phased out.

Paint

Lead can be added to paint to make it more vivid and moisture resistant. It has historically been used in playgrounds, and on toys and furniture, making young children especially vulnerable.

However, the world is making progress to eliminate lead paint. Some 48 per cent of countries have legally binding controls on lead paint. The Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint brings governments, academia, non-governmental organizations and paint companies together to increase the number of laws regulating this globally. UNEP and partners developed a model law and guidance to assist countries in regulating lead paint, as well as lead paint reformulation guidance to help small and medium-sized enterprises.

The Global Framework on Chemicals, a milestone international agreement adopted in 2023, can also help curb the use of lead. It outlines 28 targets to address chemicals throughout their life cycle, including halting illegal trade and trafficking of chemicals and the implementation of legal regulatory frameworks.

Spices

Photo-illustration: Freepik (KamranAydinov)

From turmeric to marigold, lead is prevalent in the global spice market. Sellers may intentionally add lead chromate to low-grade spices to increase their vibrancy and economic value. While some countries have reduced lead use in spices through public awareness campaigns and regulations, monitoring and enforcement has often lagged.

The Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization have code of practices to reduce lead presence in spices and other foods. Governments can use this knowledge to inform and strengthen lead monitoring networks and national policies. They can also work with health agencies to invest in more frequent blood testing – especially among children – to identify trends and limit sources of lead.

Cookware and tableware

Aluminium cookware can contain dangerous levels of lead and other metals that can leach into food. This lead can be present due to inadequate quality control during production. Some ceramics also have a lead-containing glaze to make them impervious to water. When contaminated food is ingested, lead is distributed to the organs and accumulates over time in the bones and teeth. Young children are particularly vulnerable and may absorb up to 4–5 times as much lead as adults per dose. Despite these risks, aluminum cookware is widely used due to its affordability and light weight.

Improving testing of cookware and other household products in line with stronger regulations could reduce lead exposure, experts say. Governments can also work with the private sector to identify and improve accessibility to safer alternatives, such as stainless steel cookware.

Batteries

The battery industry is the largest lead-using industry. Lead-acid batteries power many vehicles, renewable energy systems and infrastructure, like data networks. As demand for these rises, so does the improper production and management of batteries. Informal workers and communities across parts of Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America may be at increased risk of exposure to lead and fume emissions due to inadequate safety or pollution management standards.

To minimize lead exposure in batteries and other products, countries can establish stronger safety regulations and increase funding for proper equipment and facilities, experts say. As the first global public-private partnership on lead exposure in low- and middle-income countries, the Partnership for a Lead-Free Future can offer governments policy and management recommendations to move towards a lead-free future.

Source: UNEP

From Key Projects To Future Strategies

26.10.2024

Pete-Linforth-from-Pixabay — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Pete-Linforth)

I n a crucial period of energy transition, Montenegro has a clear goal: moving towards energy sources that are more sustainable and less harmful to the environment. This transition is a response to international obligations related to climate change and a key part of the national strategy to improve energy efficiency and environmental protection. We spoke with Saša Mujović, Montenegro’s Minister of Energy, about ratifying international agreements, adopting new laws, and implementing major infrastructure projects, as well as Montenegro’s commitment to achieving ambitious goals.

Q: How is Montenegro’s energy transition progressing?

A: By ratifying international climate change agreements, Montenegro has committed to taking measures to implement the energy transition. The energy sector is recognized as the area that contributes the most to greenhouse gas emissions and is expected to play a significant role in stabilizing pollutant concentrations. The most important activities for reaching these goals include adopting the Law on the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources, which will accelerate the integration of solar and wind-based production facilities. We have also announced subsidies for various energy efficiency programs. Participants in these programs will directly reduce air pollution while achieving financial savings. As for EPCG (Electric Power Company of Montenegro), one of the pillars of energy development in Montenegro, they can boast of responsible and regular maintenance of production facilities. Two long-awaited projects stand out – the ecological reconstruction of the thermal power plant and the heating system project in Pljevlja.

Q: What does the Law on the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources bring? How much is being invested in renewable energy in Montenegro, and is the distribution and transmission network ready for new capacities?

A: The Law on the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources transposes the provisions of the EU’s RED II Directive and provides a legal framework for promoting renewable energy. It will help Montenegro improve its incentive environment and achieve its goals for the share of renewable energy in total final energy consumption by 2030. One of the key provisions of this law is the introduction of auctions for allocating state incentives in the form of market premiums. This will gradually phase out feed-in tariffs and strengthen competition in the wholesale electricity market.

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More importantly, this law will also establish the legal basis for creating renewable energy communities, an innovative model that will further value solar panel installation projects on rooftops and allow citizens to benefit financially from the energy transition process.

Montenegro has significant natural potential for developing renewable sources, which attracts great interest from investors. We have signed contracts for approximately 1.5 GW of production capacity through transmission system connection agreements, mainly from solar power plants. Currently, the network cannot meet all investor demands; however, system operators are working intensively on strengthening the energy infrastructure so that it does not become a limiting factor for constructing new production facilities. Additionally, alternative solutions are being prepared to bridge the infrastructure gaps and allow the continued development of new power plants. We expect the development of the energy network to progress in parallel with the construction of new facilities, as outlined in the new Law on the Use of Energy from Renewable Sources.

Q: Why is the ecological reconstruction of the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant important? How long will this reconstruction extend the plant’s operational life?

A: The ecological reconstruction of the thermal power plant is an extremely important project for Pljevlja and Montenegro. It aims to adapt the plant’s operations to meet the state’s environmental protection commitments. Upon completion of the project, the plant is expected to be fully operational with limited emissions of nitrogen, sulfur, and particulate matter in compliance with the EU Large Combustion Plants Directive. This is one of the prerequisites for extending the plant’s operational life, which is a pillar of stability for the country’s energy system and provides about 40 percent of Montenegro’s domestic electricity production.

Regarding the plant’s future operations, it is almost certain that it will continue to operate for another 10 years after the reconstruction is complete. The complete phase-out of coal-powered production will depend on the pace of developing alternative sources, which will provide adequate substitutes for the missing energy.

Interview by Milica Radičević

Read the whole interview in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ENERGY TRANSITION

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