Three Innovations That Could Transform the Electric Vehicle Industry

28.12.2024

electric-car-gfdb2efda1_1920 — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (andreas160578)

The electric vehicle (EV) industry is often seen as a critical ally in combating climate change and decarbonizing transportation. However, as the EV market expands, it becomes clear that electrification alone is not enough. For EVs to fully justify their status as an environmentally friendly alternative, every aspect of their production, use, and disposal must be improved.

Below, we present three key innovations that could transform the EV sector into a greener pillar of global decarbonization efforts while delivering performance that rivals fossil-fuel vehicles.

Sodium-Ion Batteries

For years, lithium-ion batteries have dominated the EV market, but sodium-ion technology is increasingly gaining attention as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative.

Advocates of sodium-ion batteries highlight numerous advantages: lower production costs, environmental friendliness, and easier access to raw materials. Unlike lithium, which can be challenging to source and process, sodium is far more abundant, significantly reducing supply chain challenges.

Additionally, the materials used in sodium-ion battery production are generally cheaper than those used in lithium-ion batteries, leading to lower overall costs per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Production costs for these batteries are also expected to remain more stable compared to lithium-ion technologies, further ensuring their sustainability in the market, according to Innovation News Network.

A leader in sodium-ion technology is the Chinese company CATL. At the recent World Young Scientist Summit, Chief Scientist Wu Kai introduced the second generation of sodium-ion batteries, set to launch in 2025. CATL already manufactures sodium-ion batteries and incorporates them into its new hybrid Freevoi battery pack, which combines sodium-ion and lithium-ion cells.

The Freevoi battery is designed specifically for extended-range electric vehicles, offering a range of over 400 kilometers and ultra-fast charging capabilities. This innovation marks a significant step toward broader adoption of sodium-ion technology, showcasing its potential to develop more sustainable solutions for the future of the EV industry.

Solar Cars and Solar Canopies

Solar cars are electric vehicles that use solar energy to directly power their batteries. The key to their success lies in their efficiency and lightweight design, which maximize range using the limited energy harvested from the sun.

One of the first major steps in solar vehicle development occurred in 2013 when Dutch students introduced Stella, the first family solar car. Stella could travel 890 km on a single charge during daylight, with a weight of just 390 kg and a solar array capacity of 1.5 kWh.

Its successor, Stella Lux, raised the bar even higher, breaking records with a 1,500 km range on a single charge. With exceptional aerodynamics (a drag coefficient of just 0.16) and high energy efficiency, Stella Lux can achieve an infinite range during sunny days at speeds of 72 km/h. For an average family traveling less than 320 km daily, recharging from the grid would rarely be necessary—unless they opted to return surplus energy to the grid.

Across the Atlantic, the U.S.-based Aptera Motors is dedicated to developing solar electric cars for the mass market. Their models are designed for maximum energy efficiency and affordability. Aptera vehicles use advanced solar cells capable of generating enough energy for up to 64 km of daily driving solely on solar power—ideal for urban commutes without the need for grid charging.

In addition to solar cars, solar canopies are an efficient solution for both homes and businesses. These structures provide shade and weather protection for vehicles while simultaneously generating green energy to charge batteries.

This technology is gaining traction locally, with many companies recognizing its multiple benefits. Serbian company MT-KOMEX specializes in building EV charging stations equipped with slow (AC) and fast (DC) chargers, with or without canopies. MT-KOMEX’s skilled team delivers practical, efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions, ensuring a simple and safe way to charge EVs.

Wireless Charging

Wireless charging for EVs represents a significant step toward simplifying and enhancing the EV ownership experience. This technology comes in two main forms:

Static wireless charging works similarly to wireless smartphone chargers. When a compatible EV parks over the charger, energy transfers wirelessly, eliminating the need for cables.
Dynamic wireless charging, a more ambitious concept, enables EVs to charge while driving on specially equipped roads. This presents a significant engineering challenge but also a potentially revolutionary solution.

Recognizing the potential of wireless charging, many companies have started investing in its development and testing. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) published official standards in 2020, accelerating technological progress. Companies like BMW, Hyundai, Genesis, and Volvo are now actively developing prototypes, according to PCMag.

Interestingly, Tesla also recognized the potential of this technology, acquiring German wireless EV charger supplier Wiferion in 2023. This move is widely interpreted as a signal that wireless charging will soon become a key part of EV infrastructure.

Milena Maglovski

The First Electric Vehicle Charger “Made in BiH”

28.12.2024

Screenshot-2024-08-26-at-12.53 — Photo: Courtesy of Arslan Hajdarević

Awareness of electromobility is continuously growing, and the automotive industry strives to produce more affordable electric vehicles (EVs). However, charging these vehicles can be problematic due to the lack of public chargers. This challenge inspired a team from Bosnia and Herzegovina, who recently presented their work after three years of development.

Recognizing the need for infrastructure development, which, like in many countries in the region, has yet to keep pace with the growing number of electric vehicles, a team of experts developed the first Bosnian electric vehicle charger with all domestic components. The members of this team, including Armin Durmišević (Director), Arslan Hajdarević, Denis Berilo, and Faruk Ćirić, are dedicated to creating innovative solutions. Together with several colleagues, they designed and built the charger.

– “Our team comprises top experts in software engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.

IN FOCUS:

The charger is a completely Bosnian product. Our expert team developed all blueprints, sketches, and hardware and software aspects in-house from the beginning. Everything you see on our charger results from our knowledge and experience,” explains Hajdarević. The charger was developed to improve electric vehicle infrastructure in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The team worked on it for over three years, continuously improving every aspect and component to offer the highest-quality product on the market.

The project progressed through several phases and versions, culminating in the current fourth version (v4) of the electronics. In each iteration, the focus was on enhancing functionality, safety, and efficiency. The charger is designed to operate across a wide temperature range, adhering to industrial standards to ensure reliability in various climatic conditions.

The standard cable length is five meters, adjusted to users’ needs. Regarding materials and operation principles, the team used components that precisely control current flow, ensuring safety and efficiency during vehicle charging.

They have produced several prototypes, and the company is also focused on obtaining certification to enter the European market. Each prototype underwent rigorous testing and internal quality control processes, followed by improvements based on test results.

They already hold several ISO certifications (ISO 9001, 14001, and 27001), positioning them highly in the market. Next month, they plan to send the charger for the final CE certification, making them one of the few companies in Europe with such recognition.

Prepared by Jasna Dragojević

The story was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

China Opens Its First Carbon-Neutral Highway

27.12.2024

auto-put , mobilnost — Photo-illustration: Freepik (4045)

China has officially inaugurated the Jinan-Hefei (G35) highway, its first carbon-neutral highway, marking a significant step toward sustainable transport infrastructure. The highway has been expanded to 152.7 kilometers.

Upgraded to eight lanes, it allows a speed limit of 120 km/h and is equipped with three service stations, two parking zones, and ten toll stations, according to global media reports.

Carbon dioxide emission reductions have been achieved through the use of advanced technologies and renewable energy systems. While the highway produces approximately 13,600 tons of CO2 annually, the implementation of clean technologies allows for emissions reductions exceeding the amount generated—up to 22,500 tons. This means that these technologies not only offset the highway’s emissions but also have additional capacity to reduce the overall carbon footprint.

At facilities along the highway, including service zones, toll stations, access roads, and embankments, solar panels have been installed. Solar canopies also provide charging stations for electric vehicles.

Additionally, the highway incorporates small wind turbines, geothermal heat pumps, and energy storage systems capable of providing 9 MW of power and storing up to 18 MWh of energy. According to global media, there are also mobile energy storage systems that ensure backup power for the microgrid.

This project includes further enhancements in energy efficiency, such as wastewater treatment systems, expanded green spaces, and more.

The highway utilizes advanced monitoring technologies that collect real-time data on highway conditions, enabling more efficient problem-solving.

Statistics show that China builds approximately 6,000 kilometers of new highways and modernizes 3,000 kilometers annually. Projects like this play a vital role in achieving green energy goals and reducing emissions.

Energy portal

The Baltic Sea in Peril – Rising Bacteria and Declining Oxygen Levels Alarm Scientists

27.12.2024

more — Photo-illustration: Freepik (pvproductions)

The Baltic Sea is an ecosystem that has undergone significant changes due to human activities, jeopardizing its functionality and biological balance. Among the most severe negative impacts are eutrophication, pollution, climate change, and overexploitation of resources.

Researchers from the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel conducted a study using long-term data from the Boknis Eck time series station to analyze environmental changes between 1991 and 2019. Their findings, which include substantial shifts in temperature and oxygen levels, were published in the journal Scientific Reports.

By analyzing data from the southwestern Baltic Sea, including measurements of dissolved organic carbon dioxide (a form of carbon dioxide present in water) and nitrogen, a critical nutrient for microorganisms, as well as data on bacterial growth, the researchers observed an increase in bacterial production during summer. This rise occurs particularly after the spring phytoplankton bloom.

The increase in bacteria poses a threat to other organisms in the ecosystem, as bacteria consume nutrients from the water, reducing their availability for other species. Another consequence of human influence is the rise in water temperature, especially in summer, which further strengthens water stratification. This process involves warming of the surface layer, which separates it from deeper, cooler layers—conditions that further promote bacterial growth.

Moreover, bacteria not only utilize nutrients but also consume oxygen from the upper water layer, reducing oxygen levels in other layers. This decline can have severe consequences for marine life. Studies show that despite efforts to restore the ecosystem, bacterial presence continues to rise.

These changes also impact the health of coastal ecosystems, which play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change. Therefore, researchers emphasize the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable ecosystems.

Katarina Vuinac

Environmental Crisis: Fuel Oil Spill in the Kerch Strait

26.12.2024

polina-grishma-YFPsukPSm6Q-unsplash — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (polina-grishma)

A recent environmental disaster struck the Kerch Strait, a critical waterway connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, following the sinking of two oil tankers. The incident resulted in a massive spill of fuel oil. According to estimates, around 3,680 tons of petroleum products have leaked into the sea, posing a severe threat to the environment.

This ecological incident has heavily impacted the Krasnodar region, particularly the popular tourist destination of Anapa, where beaches are now covered with layers of fuel oil. Local authorities, with the help of volunteers, are undertaking urgent measures to clean the shores and minimize damage to biodiversity and the region’s economy.

The environmental consequences are already evident. In addition to soil contamination, which may affect local flora, the death of numerous marine animals highlights the gravity of the situation. Birdlife is also suffering, with many birds found covered in oil, requiring immediate rescue efforts.

The governor of Krasnodar expressed concerns about the long-term pollution that could have lasting consequences for the Black Sea ecosystem and called for swift and effective cleanup actions to prevent further contamination. The economic impact is also significant, as the region heavily relies on tourism, which is now directly threatened.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for better regulations in the transport of petroleum products and quicker response mechanisms in the event of ecological disasters to protect natural resources.

Energy portal

In Silence Grows a Healthy Child: The Negative Impact of Noise We Often Overlook

26.12.2024

Photo-illustration: Freepik (jannoon028)

Environmental awareness tends to grow more intensely when the negative consequences of pollution become closer to our everyday lives or directly affect us. This is natural since we care the most when those dearest to us, especially the most vulnerable ones, are at risk. Until now, we’ve become familiar with the effects of various types of pollution on the environment, biodiversity, and human health. We often discuss pollution of oceans, forests, parks, and rivers caused by waste, harmful gas emissions, chemicals, and other factors. However, there is one type of pollution that is often overlooked but can have serious negative consequences—noise pollution.

Would it surprise you if I told you that, according to the European Environment Agency (EEA), noise pollution from transport—such as vehicles, trains, and airplanes—is among the most harmful environmental factors for human health? It ranks just behind air pollution.

Reflecting on this topic, I asked myself how noise affects me. When I go to bed, silence is essential. However, I live near a road where drivers often speed at night. The roar of engines and the screech of tires repeatedly unsettle me, even evoking fear. During the day, while working on my laptop, I manage to mask the traffic noise with background music. But as I think about situations where noise bothers me, my thoughts turn to children. If noise disrupts me as an adult—despite having somewhat adapted to it over the years—how much more does it affect children? Children who are learning, sleeping, or attending classes.

How Does Noise Affect Children’s Development?

Research shows that this type of pollution can cause severe health issues, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as mental health disorders. Particularly alarming is the finding that chronic exposure to traffic noise can negatively impact children, who are at a critical stage of learning and development. Studies increasingly indicate that children exposed to noise caused by transportation may experience cognitive challenges, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and even obesity.

Photo-illustration: Freepik (master1305)

During adolescence, exposure to such pollution has been linked to anxiety, while exposure to transport noise in early childhood can lead to mental health issues later in adulthood.

The EEA provided more precise data on children in Europe aged 6 to 17 who experience difficulties in reading or behavior due to exposure to transport noise. A 2022 study covered noise from road, rail, and air traffic, including data on children in both urban and rural environments. Although detailed data were presented for each group, I will summarize the total numbers for both environments.

Regarding reading difficulties, road traffic has the greatest impact, affecting over 450,000 children, followed by rail traffic with over 80,000 and air traffic with nearly 8,000 children. The alarming figure is that more than half a million children are affected.

Although fewer children are impacted by behavioral difficulties due to this noise, each individual case represents a serious issue. Road traffic affects more than 50,000 children, rail traffic nearly 8,000, and air traffic about 600 children.

How Can We Reduce Noise Exposure in Children?

To minimize children’s exposure to transport noise, comprehensive measures are necessary. Speed limits on roads and the installation of noise barriers can significantly reduce noise levels, while designing school buildings away from busy traffic areas provides additional protection. Quality sound insulation of walls, windows, and doors in schools and residential buildings plays a crucial role in maintaining silence. Planting trees around these buildings not only reduces noise levels but also creates a more pleasant and healthier environment. These measures are equally important for residential buildings to ensure better protection from noise in everyday life.

Finally, we should all reflect on how transport noise affects us, even if we don’t notice it immediately. Perhaps now is the right time to talk to children about whether noise bothers them and how they feel in their daily environment. Such conversations can help us better understand their needs and contribute to creating a quieter and healthier space for their growth and development.

Katarina Vuinac

KLM’s Efforts for Sustainable Aviation

25.12.2024

Climate change and global warming present challenges that require swift and decisive action. As we confront them, it is important to recognize the various sources of pollution. Civil aviation, for example, contributes to overall carbon dioxide pollution by two to three percent. Without serious changes, this share could rise to as much as 22 percent by 2050. There must be a way to reconcile humanity’s natural desire to travel with reducing aviation’s impact on climate change.

Since the main cause of pollution in the aviation industry is the use of fossil fuels, the key solution lies in reducing their use and transitioning to sustainable alternative fuels. In fact, this is exactly what the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, is doing. KLM has been a leader in the aviation industry for many years when it comes to sustainability. Instead of developing a separate strategy for sustainable operations, the company places sustainability at the core of its business strategy. This approach allows it to integrate environmental practices into all aspects of its operations, thereby actively contributing to reducing its environmental impact.

IN FOCUS:

How KLM is trying to reduce its carbon footprint and climate impact

FLEET RENEWAL, as the newest generation of aircraft consumes less fuel and, therefore, emits fewer harmful gases. The airline’s goal is to reduce its relative carbon dioxide emissions by 30 percent by 2030, and fleet renewal will enable it to achieve 12 percent of that target. This is why KLM is introducing new Airbus A320/321Neo aircraft for medium-haul routes, as these planes reduce emissions per passenger kilometer by 20 percent compared to the aircraft they are replacing. Additionally, KLM is introducing Airbus A350F aircraft to its cargo fleet, which will reduce carbon dioxide emissions from cargo flights by 40 percent on an absolute basis.
OPERATIONAL MEASURES, such as route optimization, weight reduction, and fuel efficiency improvements, can contribute two percent towards achieving the projected goal for 2030.
Photo: KLM
PURCHASING AND USING SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF). The most important factor for reducing aviation’s climate impact is better fuel: sustainable aviation fuel or SAF, as its use can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 75 percent compared to fossil fuels. KLM’s ambition is to use 10 percent SAF on its flights by 2030, and through purchases and various partnerships with SAF producers, the company has already secured the necessary amount of fuel to be halfway toward achieving this ambition.

How can you, as a passenger, participate in the fight for more sustainable aviation

It’s simple – the next time you pack your suitcase, consider whether you really need all the items you’re taking. Also, when booking a flight, you have the option to voluntarily purchase an additional amount of sustainable fuel. Your contribution is calculated based on several factors that affect the carbon dioxide emissions of your flight, such as aircraft type, distance, and load factor. Today, KLM uses one percent sustainable aviation fuel on all flights departing from Amsterdam. It’s a start, but with your help as a passenger, it can do even more. Every small step contributes to the larger goal of preserving our planet.

KLM

The story was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

EBRD Supports the Largest Onshore Wind Project in Africa

24.12.2024

vetrogenerator_vetar_vetroelektrana — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Andrew Schultz)

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is promoting renewable energy and low‑carbon technologies in Egypt by arranging a syndicated loan worth 275 million USD for the construction and operation of the largest wind farm in Africa.

The 275 million USD syndicated loan to Suez Wind consists of a 200 million USD A loan from the EBRD and 75 million USD in B loans from Arab Bank and Standard Chartered.

The new wind farm is being co-financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB), British development finance institution British International Investment (BII), German development finance institution Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG), the OPEC Fund for International Development (OPEC Fund) and the Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP).

The wind farm in the Gulf of Suez region will have an installed capacity of 1.1 GW and will provide clean, renewable power at a cost below that of conventional generation.

The new wind farm is expected to generate more than 4,300 GWh of electricity annually and reduce annual CO2 emissions by more than 2.2 million tonnes, helping the country to develop an energy sector that is aligned with its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

The EBRD is the leading development partner in the energy pillar of Egypt’s Nexus of Water, Food & Energy (NWFE) programme, which was unveiled at COP27. This landmark wind power plant is one of the first projects to be developed under NWFE’s energy pillar. The project will contribute to the 10 GW renewable energy target set under NWFE and will help the government to decarbonise its fossil fuel-dominated power sector and achieve its renewable energy targets.

Suez Wind is a special project company jointly owned by ACWA Power (an international developer and investor that co-owns and operates a portfolio of power generation and desalinated water production plants) and HAU Energy (a recently established renewable energy equity platform that the EBRD is investing in alongside Hassan Allam Utilities and Meridiam Africa Investments).

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Levan Badzgaradze)

Rania A. Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, and the EBRD Governor for Egypt, said: “Egypt is committed to advancing its renewable energy ambitions, aiming to derive 42 per cent of its energy mix from renewable sources by 2030, in line with our nationally determined contributions. Through our partnership with the EBRD, a key development partner within the energy sector of Egypt’s country platform for the NWFE programme, we are mobilising blended finance to attract private-sector investments in renewable energy. So far, funding has been secured for projects with a capacity of 4.7 GW, and we are working collaboratively to meet the programme’s targets to reduce Egypt’s fuel consumption and expand clean energy projects.”

Nandita Parshad, Managing Director of the EBRD’s Sustainable Infrastructure Group, said: “EBRD is proud to be the largest financier of this landmark 1,100 MW wind farm in the Gulf of Suez, also the largest onshore windfarm in the EBRD countries of operation to date. Egypt continues to be a trailblazer for large scale renewables in Africa: first with the largest solar farm and now the largest windfarm on the continent. Great to partner on both with ACWA power and to bring new partners in this project, Hassan Allam Utilities and Meridiam.”

Egypt is a founding member of the EBRD. Since the start of its operations there in 2012, the EBRD has invested almost 13.3 billion euros in 194 projects across the country. The EBRD’s areas of investment in Egypt include the financial and transport sectors, agribusiness, and manufacturing and services, as well as infrastructure projects in the power, municipal water and wastewater service sectors‎.

Source: EBRD

Solar Power Plant “B2 Sunspot” Commissioned in Kikinda

23.12.2024

The center of the North Banat District – Kikinda municipality – has gained another pillar of energy security after the trial operation of the “B2 Sunspot” solar power plant began on Friday, December 20. This milestone adds to the wealth of clean energy sources in Banat and across Serbia.

MT-KOMEX, a company renowned for its numerous projects and as the contractor for the largest solar power plant in the country, has taken on the construction of the “B2 Sunspot” solar power plant in Kikinda. With a capacity of 7 MW, the project will annually strengthen the power grid with an additional 11,000 MWh of green energy.

The solar power plant spans 8,500 square meters, located on a former landfill site. This transformation has led to ecological revitalization on multiple levels. In addition to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, the project has converted previously unproductive land into a functional and productive site. The transition from an abandoned area to a modern energy facility was made easier with the advantage of existing infrastructure, which significantly facilitated construction efforts.

The solar power plant utilizes bifacial panels from Canadian Solar, each with a capacity of 660 Wp. Thanks to their ability to absorb sunlight from both sides, these panels achieve significantly more efficient energy production. During operation, the energy will be converted by 70 Fronius Tauro Eco 100-3-P inverters, supported by seven energy transformers, each rated at 1,000 kVA. The construction was provided by Turkish manufacturer Kıraç Metal. The equipment’s configuration and operational design will ensure the projected annual production is met.

In terms of legal conditions, the “B2 Sunspot” plant was among the winners of the first auctions held by the Ministry of Mining and Energy of the Republic of Serbia. Following this, contracts were signed for the purchase of electricity and balancing responsibility with the joint-stock company “Elektroprivreda Srbije” (EPS). This marks the first time EPS has signed contracts for the trial and permanent operation of a solar power plant, with agreements spanning 15 years.

Upon commissioning the plant for trial operation, MT-KOMEX’s expert team expressed gratitude to the Kikinda municipality and relevant energy institutions, particularly “Elektroprivreda Srbije,” for their support and partnership, which enabled the realization of this important endeavor. Projects like this become a reality only through the collaborative engagement of all stakeholders.

Based on prior experience, the new “B2 Sunspot” solar power plant will not only contribute to sustainable development but also demonstrate that innovative approaches can create valuable resources on sites that were previously neglected.

Energy Portal

Sustainable Logistics Real Estate

22.12.2024

Image-by-Marcin-from-Pixabay — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Marcin)

Transportation is often the primary focus when discussing sustainable logistics solutions, as it is a major energy consumer and environmental polluter. However, other logistical systems, such as logistics and distribution centers, terminals, warehousing, and handling systems, also significantly improve energy and ecological efficiency and the sustainability of logistics solutions within the supply chain. This aspect is often underrepresented, which motivated this discussion to highlight the various aspects of sustainability in logistics real estate in more detail. In fact, sustainability in logistics real estate is examined from two main angles: sustainable locations and facilities.

Sustainable Logistics Locations

Location selection is one of the most challenging tasks in logistics. Traditionally, location criteria for logistics properties prioritize good connections with transportation infrastructure, various transport modes, and logistics networks at the macro level and solid connectivity with end users and service locations at the micro level. This logistics-oriented approach to location selection significantly contributes to energy and environmental sustainability.

Based on these criteria, logistics centers and warehouses would ideally be located close to end-use and consumption points, as this would minimize delivery times, distribution costs, energy consumption, and emissions from transport.

However, achieving this is challenging in practice. Buyers and consumers are often in urban areas where space for logistics properties is limited and expensive. Additionally, traffic congestion and local transport and operating hours regulations can restrict logistics operations in these areas. As a result, logistics systems and facilities are often moved to the outskirts of large cities. A key question then becomes where to locate them and how far from end users and delivery sites, as this directly impacts transport volume and environmental effects. Delivery of goods largely relies on road transport, which emits significant amounts of CO2 and other pollutants. If logistics and distribution centers are far from urban areas, this increases vehicle starts, empty return trips, travel distances, energy consumption, and pollution. Positioning logistics systems closer to urban areas and near highways, railways, airports, and other transport hubs and terminals is preferable. This allows for intermodal transport systems that use more energy- and eco-efficient transportation methods. Indicators that highlight the importance of this approach include energy use and emissions per ton-kilometer (tkm): road transport consumes about 2,890 KJ/tkm and emits approximately 139.8 gCO2/tkm; rail transport uses about 667 KJ/tkm and emits 15.6 gCO2/tkm, while river transport averages 423 KJ/tkm and emits around 50.62 gCO2/tkm.

IN FOCUS:

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Ivan Bandura)

Besides transport distance, the land used for logistics locations is also essential for sustainability, as it could otherwise be used for agriculture, water management, forestry, or other ecosystems. Preserving the natural environment and contributing to biodiversity is crucial here. Land use and building construction impact the environment negatively by reducing rainwater absorption, disrupting the natural circulation of air and water, destroying green areas, and altering the landscape and visual environment. The area also loses its ability to absorb carbon and other pollutants, creating lasting consequences. Logistics real estate is increasingly occupying more land. In Europe, it is estimated that around 23 percent of commercial real estate is devoted to logistics. There are over a million square meters of logistics and industrial space in the Belgrade region, mainly on former fertile land along the Belgrade–Šid and Belgrade–Novi Sad highways. This trend of land occupation continues. Facilities are generally up to 10 or 15 meters high. Still, by constructing high rack warehouses up to 40 meters tall, land use would be much more efficient, resulting in less environmental impact. Such facilities are also more energy-efficient.

Sustainability also improves when existing sites or previously used industrial or commercial properties that are now abandoned, underutilized, or contaminated are repurposed instead of converting agricultural land into building land. This saves space, helps clear polluted land, and removes environmental hazards. Often, these sites have existing transportation, utility, and technical infrastructure that can be reused rather than building new structures from scratch.

Milorad Kilibarda, PhD

Read the whole story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

European solar sector issues yellow card as market data reveals 92 percent growth decline and investment slump

22.12.2024

solar-panels-roof-solar-cell — Photo-illustaration: Freepik (tawatchai07)

After four years of soaring growth, the EU solar sector has hit its first deployment slowdown of the 2020s, dropping from 53 percent growth in 2023 to 4 percent in 2024. This represents a 92 percent slowdown of solar growth.

SolarPower Europe’s annual EU Market Outlook for Solar Power reveals that 65.5 GW of solar has been installed in 2024, just beating the 2023 record of 62.8 GW of new solar. The total EU solar fleet now stands at 338 GW, quadrupling from 82 GW a decade ago.

Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO at SolarPower Europe, said, “European policymakers and system operators can consider this year’s report a yellow card. Slowing solar deployment means slowing the continent’s goals on energy security, competitiveness and climate. Europe needs to be installing around 70 GW annually to hit its 2030 targets – we need to consider corrective action now, before it’s too late.”

The slowdown comes despite falling solar component prices and lower upfront costs for solar installations. Ground-mounted utility-scale solar projects saw an average cost decline of 28 percent in 2024. Despite the lower cost of capital, solar investment fell for the first time in the 2020s, from €63 billion in 2023 to €55 billion in 2024.

On rooftops, the report credits limited growth to the temporary resolution of the gas crisis. Households with solar and a heat pump saved up to 84 percent on their monthly energy bills during the height of the energy crisis – with less pressure on monthly energy bills for now, households are less inclined to invest in solar panels. Therefore, larger solar installations are likely to grow quicker than rooftop in the EU in the second half of the decade. However, with rooftop installations starting from a larger base, they will hold a greater share of the EU’s total solar through the decade, compared to utility scale.

More widely, the market slowdown is attributed to system conditions. Europe’s electrification rate has been stuck at 23 percent for the past five years, leaving most of the energy system dependent on fossil fuels and combustion. The Electrification Alliance is calling for 35 percent electrification by 2030.

At the same time, system flexibility must work quickly to catch up to solar deployment. A flexible, electrified system will slash 2030 day-ahead energy prices by 25 percent, while boosting the solar business case by 71 percent. Amongst other flexibility tools, this will require a 16-fold growth from 48 GWh of EU battery storage today to 780 GWh of battery storage in 2030.

Dries Acke, Deputy CEO at SolarPower Europe (he/him) said: “Low-cost solar is the best option for bringing Europe into a new era of competitiveness. We need to complete our detachment from Russian gas and avoid LNG dependence. Europe’s industries needs clean and affordable electricity to stay competitive, and Europe’s renewable sector needs more flexible electricity demand to reinforce their business case. We call on the new European Commission to leverage this mutually reinforcing opportunity and build the Clean Industrial Deal around renewables, flexibility and electrification.”

Looking forward, the future looks less bright than previously forecast. By 2028, the sector could be installing 82 GW per year, with annual growth only in the 1-digit range of 3-7 percent. By 2030, the most-likely ‘medium’ scenario forecasts 816 GW total solar capacity in the EU, that’s 8 percent down from our estimate of 890 GW only six months ago. Furthermore, for the first time, our ‘low’ scenario for 2030 warns that Europe could miss its REPowerEU target of 750 GW, and achieve only 650 GW.

Source: SolarPower Europe

Reliable Solution – Solar Energy

21.12.2024

IMG-caaf63be5a4b33c0ab5b5762e7a9506b-V — Photo: MT-KOMEX

An increasing number of companies recognize the benefits of investing in sustainable energy. This trend is driven by the pursuit of decarbonization and climate neutrality goals and as a response to the global energy crisis. This moment revealed the instability of traditional energy sources and the necessity to move towards energy transition. Companies are increasingly considering integrating solar energy in their efforts to secure reliable energy sources for their operations. However, making such decisions requires trust in the efficient execution of projects. When a project is entrusted to a team of experts, investors need assurance that all phases are carefully planned, allowing them to focus on achieving their business objectives.

SAKURA ENERGY has decided to integrate sustainable energy into its operations. This decision marks a significant step toward reducing the company’s environmental footprint and improving energy efficiency. To realize their ambitious idea, they found a reliable partner in MT-KOMEX, a company with extensive experience constructing solar power plants. MT-KOMEX offers comprehensive support at all project stages, from initial analysis and design to implementation and maintenance. The company’s expert team oversees every aspect of the project, ensuring compliance with the latest standards and regulations in the field of renewable energy.

The solar power plant Sakura Park 1, located on the rooftop of a building in New Belgrade, will include 304 bifacial photovoltaic panels manufactured by Luxor Solar, chosen for their high quality and efficiency. Bifacial solar panels are designed to generate more electricity by capturing sunlight reflected off the surface on which they are installed.

IN FOCUS:

The panels will be installed in landscape orientation on flat rooftop surfaces. They will be arranged in two rows facing east-west, with a tilt angle of 9°. The horizontal spacing between the panels is 22 millimeters, while the vertical spacing is approximately 140 millimeters. Each panel measures 2,279 x 1,134 x 30 millimeters and weighs 32.7 kilograms.

The total capacity of the photovoltaic generators is 173.28 kWp DC. Four alternating current inverters, each with an output power of 40 kW and manufactured by Huawei, are planned for connection to the grid. The total output power of all inverters is 160 kW, and they are connected via AC cables to a single AC distribution panel within the building. The electricity generated by this solar power plant will be used to power the building’s internal systems, with partial excess energy fed into the distribution grid. The estimated annual electricity production from the solar power plant is 175,221.00 kWh, demonstrating the efficiency and capacity of the project.

The adoption of solar energy plays a significant role in combating climate change by reducing carbon dioxide emissions, one of the main greenhouse gases contributing to global warming. Regarding the solar power plant Sakura Park 1, the expected annual CO2 savings amount to 82,317.25 kilograms, highlighting this project’s environmental benefits. These benefits include achieving climate goals, reducing air pollution, and improving quality of life.

Prepared by Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT

Renewables account for 24.5 percent of EU energy use in 2023

21.12.2024

germany-393692_1280 — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Lusign)

In 2023, 24.5 percent of gross final energy consumption in the EU came from renewable sources, up by 1.4 percentage points compared with 2022. This share is 18 percentage points (pp) short of meeting the 2030 target (42.5 percent), which would require an annual average increase of 2.6 pp from 2024 to 2030.

Sweden ranked first among EU countries, with two-thirds (66.4 percent) of its gross final energy consumption coming from renewable sources in 2023. Sweden primarily relied on solid biofuels, hydro and wind.

Finland followed with 50.8 percent, also relying on solid biofuels, wind and hydro, while Denmark came in third with 44.9 percent, with most of its renewable energy sourced from solid biofuels and wind.

The lowest shares of renewables were recorded in Luxembourg (11.6 percent), Belgium (14.7 percent) and Malta (15.1 percent).

Source: Eurostat

One year since the European Wind Charter: Lots achieved, lots more to do

20.12.2024

NOVO vetar — Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

In her 2023 State of the European Union speech, Ursula von der Leyen addressed the challenges facing Europe’s wind industry and announced a Wind Power Package to address key bottlenecks:

Faster permitting;
Better auction design; and
Support for skills, finance, and the supply chain to ensure Europe remains a leader in wind energy.

The Commission then presented a Wind Power Package (or “Action Plan”) with 15 specific measures to strengthen Europe’s wind industry. The measures did not require new legislation. They could be taken immediately – by the Commission, the European Investment Bank, by national Governments and by the wind industry itself. Exactly one year ago 26 Energy Ministers and 300 companies from the wind industry then signed the European Wind Charter, committed to take the actions set out in the Wind Power Package.

What’s happened?

Most of the 15 measures have been implemented or are in the process of being implemented. And they are having a positive impact on the wind industry:

Public financial institutions are giving more support to the wind supply chain and logistics. The European Investment Bank (EIB) have set up and started using their (initially) 5bn euros counter-guarantee facility for wind. This makes it easier for private banks to issue the performance bonds needed when turbine manufacturers sell turbines to wind farm developers. It’s unlocking projects that may not otherwise be happening. The EU Commission has started giving grants through the EU Innovation Fund to wind turbine manufacturing and development facilities. It awarded 220m euros to 6 facilities in the latest Innovation Fund Call.
Many Member States have given public financial support and guarantees to investments in new factories making wind energy equipment and in ports and other infrastructure that’s vital to wind. On the back of this – and the EU and EIB funding and financing – Europe’s wind and grid equipment supply chain are now developing 30 new factories across Europe – see the map below. Over the past 12 months alone the industry has invested 11bn euros in new manufacturing facilities. By the end of next year Europe will be able to manufacture 9.5 GW of offshore wind and 22.5 GW of onshore wind turbines a year. Europe is currently building around 20 GW of new wind farms every year.

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)
Spain and Germany have replicated the European Wind Charter in national charters and action plans. In March (at the WindEurope Annual event in Bilbao) the Spanish Government and wind industry signed a Spanish Wind Charter – with 6 key actions, including improved auction design and the ramping up of manufacturing capacity. In October Germany introduced a 5-Point Wind Action Plan with a heavy focus on measures: to ensure a level playing field between German/European wind equipment manufacturers and non-European competitors; and to strengthen the cyber and data security of Germany’s wind farms and wind industry.
Germany has also set a great example to other countries in its approach to permitting new wind farms. They’ve been the first country to fully apply the new EU legal principle that the permitting of wind is in the “overriding public interest” – and the other new EU permitting rules. And they’re now permitting 6 times as much onshore wind as they were 5 years ago – with over 12 GW permitted this year alone.
With more new wind farms permitted, Germany is now getting lots more projects through its wind energy auctions. They’ve successfully auctioned 11 GW of new onshore wind this year. And Governments across Europe are auctioning record volumes of new wind which bodes well for the industry. 19 GW of new offshore wind was awarded across Europe in 2024.
And many countries have launched their first ever wind energy auctions this year. Romania have just awarded 1 GW of onshore wind CfDs. Estonia and Norway both did their first offshore wind auctions. Poland are about to run their first CfD auction for offshore wind. And Slovakia are developing their first wind farms.
And 2024 is set to be a record year for renewables PPA deals with corporate electricity consumers, with 11 GW of new deals signed.

More needed still from the EU and Governments

The European Wind Charter has helped improve the situation in Europe’s wind industry. But further policy and public financial support is needed. Europe is expected to build more new wind farms in the coming years than it has done in recent years. Wind is 20 percent of Europe’s electricity consumption today. We expect it to be around 30 percent by 2030. But the growth is not enough to meet the EU’s ambitious energy security targets. We expect wind capacity in the EU to grow from 225 GW today to 350 GW by 2030 – the EU target is 425 GW.

What’s still holding back wind?

Permitting: too few countries are applying the excellent new EU rules;
Grid bottlenecks: Europe isn’t expanding and modernising its transmission and distribution networks quickly enough. That’s delaying new projects and causing growing amounts of energy from existing wind farms to be curtailed; and
The slow pace of electrification: many industrial consumers want to electrify their factories with wind but are struggling with the business case.

Source: WindEnergy

1...242526...413 Page 25 of 413

More:

IN FOCUS:

More:

More:

More:

How Does Noise Affect Children’s Development?

How Can We Reduce Noise Exposure in Children?

More:

Additional Investments in Solar Power

IN FOCUS:

How KLM is trying to reduce its carbon footprint and climate impact

How can you, as a passenger, participate in the fight for more sustainable aviation

More:

More:

Sustainable Logistics Locations

IN FOCUS:

More:

IN FOCUS:

What’s happened?

More:

More needed still from the EU and Governments

What’s still holding back wind?

Newsletter

Calendar of events

2025 September

Events for 30 September

Events for 1 October

Events for 2 October

Events for 3 October

Events for 4 October

Events for 5 October

Events for 6 October

Events for 7 October

Events for 8 October

Events for 9 October

Events for 10 October

Events for 11 October

Events for 12 October

Events for 13 October

Events for 14 October

Events for 15 October

Events for 16 October

Events for 17 October

Events for 18 October

Events for 19 October

Events for 20 October

Events for 21 October

Events for 22 October

Events for 23 October

Events for 24 October

Events for 25 October

Events for 26 October

Events for 27 October

Events for 28 October

Events for 29 October

Events for 30 October

WRITE US