EDF, one of the UK’s largest optimisers of battery and flexible energy assets, has signed a long-term agreement with sustainable energy firm Ampeak Energy to optimise its AW1 Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The project, located at the former Uskmouth coal-fired power station, is a major step in Ampeak Energy’s plan to transform the site into a sustainable energy park. The 120MW/240MWh battery facility will store electricity and release it back to the grid during periods of high demand. This process helps to balance the grid, support the UK’s transition to net zero, and strengthen the nation’s energy security. EDF will use its Powershift platform and expert trading team to maximise the commercial performance of the AW1 project. For over half a century, the Uskmouth site supplied electricity to the national grid as a coal-fired power station. Under Ampeak Energy’s ownership, it is now being redeveloped into one of the UK’s largest battery storage facilities. Stuart Fenner, Wholesale Market Services Commercial Director at EDF, said: “We’re proud to be working with Ampeak Energy on this landmark project. Battery storage is key to helping the UK reach its climate goal, and our partnership will unlock long-term value from one of the…
Scatec ASA, a major renewable energy provider, has signed a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with BTG Pactual Comercializadora de Energía, a subsidiary of Brazil’s Banco BTG Pactual. The agreement will see Scatec build a 130 MW solar plant in Colombia. The PPA will cover approximately 85% of the plant’s estimated energy production, with the remainder to be sold on the open Colombian market. The agreement, which is denominated in Colombian Pesos, is adjusted for inflation based on the country’s Producer Price Index. The project, which will be Scatec’s first in Colombia, is located in Nariño, just over 100 kilometres west of Bogotá. The country has a supportive regulatory environment and is expected to add more than 5 GW of solar capacity over the next five years. Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog said: “This agreement marks an important step for Scatec as we enter the Colombian market with a commercially robust project. Colombia offers a solid framework for renewable energy investments, and we are pleased to contribute to the country’s energy transition through our integrated business model.” The total capital expenditure for the solar plant is estimated to be $110 million. Scatec will act as the designated Engineering, Procurement, and Construction…
Despite market challenges, Chevron continues to see significant potential in sub-Saharan Africa. While many companies are exiting onshore and shallow offshore operations in Nigeria, Chevron remains committed to the region, focusing on gas production and strategic partnerships. Energy Intelligence Finance recently highlighted Chevron’s strategy to transition output to gas in the region, emphasizing its long-term commitment to the African market. Chevron played a pivotal role in the development of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), a vital infrastructure project that supplies natural gas to Benin, Togo, and Ghana, fostering economic development across the region. The WAGP currently supplies approximately 170 million cubic feet per day of Nigerian gas, demonstrating the company’s commitment to regional energy security. Jim Swartz, Nigeria/Mid-Africa Managing Director, emphasized Chevron’s continued exploration of growth opportunities in the region, stating, “We’ve been able to successfully navigate working in the region for quite a while. We see a lot of resource potential, and there are a lot of things that haven’t been fully developed.” Chevron is actively pursuing new projects through strategic partnerships in Africa. Key initiatives include Angola LNG Limited, a 5.2-million-ton-per-year project, and Project Panther, a joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company. Project Panther, an…
Louth County Council has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative with the construction of Ireland’s first-ever 3D printed social housing project in Dundalk, County Louth. This project, named Grange Close, represents a significant step forward in sustainable and efficient housing solutions. The project is a collaborative effort between Louth County Council, Louth & Meath Education & Training Board (LMETB), Harcourt Technologies Ltd (HTL.tech), and Roadstone Ltd. It aims to utilize 3D Construction Printing (3DCP) technology to deliver high-quality and sustainable social housing in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional methods. The 3DCP technology utilizes large printers to build three-dimensional structures layer by layer on-site. This innovative approach reduces construction time by up to three times, streamlining the process and potentially offering a solution to Ireland’s growing housing shortage. Joan Martin, chief executive at Louth County Council, said: “Louth County Council is proud to collaborate with LMETB, Harcourt Technologies Ltd (HTL.tech), and Roadstone Ltd to deliver what is a very significant pilot project at Grange Close, Dundalk. The provision of high quality and sustainable social housing is a core objective of Louth County Council, and this project is a significant example of the use of innovative technologies and organisational collaboration in the delivery…
NEC Corporation has successfully completed the construction of the Asia Direct Cable (ADC), a high-capacity submarine cable system connecting key regions in East and Southeast Asia. This significant achievement marks a milestone in enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the growing demand for data transmission. The ADC cable system links China (Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong Province), Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. With its multiple pairs of high-capacity optical fibers, the cable is capable of transmitting over 160 terabits per second (Tbps) of data, enabling high-speed and reliable communication. The completion of the ADC project is a testament to NEC’s expertise in submarine cable systems. The company’s long history of innovation and technical excellence has enabled it to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the telecommunications industry. By investing in advanced technologies and fostering strong partnerships with industry leaders, NEC is committed to driving digital transformation and enabling a connected future.
Kang Bo’s fantasy drama “Kingdom of the Insomniacs” has been awarded the top prize at the 27th Asian Project Market (APM). The film, which follows mushroom farmers suffering from insomnia and aging, was selected from a pool of 30 projects from across Asia. The APM, held during the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), provides a platform for filmmakers to connect with potential investors, distributors, and co-production partners. This year’s event saw a record number of submissions, highlighting the growing interest in Asian cinema. Other notable winners at the APM include Japanese director Bunji Sotoyama’s “Life Redo List,” which received the One Cool Award, and Indonesian filmmaker Wregas Bhanuteja’s “Levitating,” which won the CJ ENM Award. The APM continues to be a vital platform for the Asian film industry, fostering collaboration and promoting the development of innovative and thought-provoking projects.
SSEN Transmission has submitted a planning application to Aberdeenshire Council for the development of the Hurlie 400kV substation, a crucial component of its proposed Kintore to Tealing 400kV overhead line connection. This project aims to enhance the UK’s energy infrastructure and support the integration of renewable energy sources, particularly offshore wind farms. The new substation, which will be located in Fetteresso Forest, will play a vital role in transmitting clean energy across the country. SSEN Transmission has carefully considered community feedback and has implemented measures to minimize the project’s visual impact. These include a reduced substation size and the incorporation of landscape and screening measures. Calum Grant, Senior Development Project Manager at SSEN Transmission, said: “The Hurlie substation is a key part of our proposals to support the delivery of 2030 offshore wind generation targets. By investing in our electricity transmission network, we are contributing to the UK’s energy security and clean power objectives.” The project is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, creating jobs and stimulating local businesses. SSEN Transmission remains committed to working closely with Aberdeenshire Council and local stakeholders throughout the planning process.
YPF S.A. today announced its participation in the Vaca Muerta Sur pipeline project, a significant infrastructure development in Argentina. YPF, as a shareholder in VMOS S.A. alongside Vista Energy Argentina S.A.U., Pampa Energía S.A., and Pan American Sur S.A., will contribute to the construction of a 437-kilometer crude oil export pipeline. The project, approved at the recent VMOS board meeting, will feature a loading and unloading terminal with interconnected monobuoys and a tank and storage yard. Construction is set to commence immediately with the goal of achieving mechanical completion by the fourth quarter of 2026 and commencing commercial operations on July 31, 2027. The project, with a design capacity of 550,000 barrels per day, represents the largest hydrocarbon export infrastructure in Argentina. It will require an investment of approximately US$3 billion, financed by shareholder contributions and external funding. YPF has committed to a transport capacity of 120,000 barrels per day and will hold a minority shareholding in VMOS. The company will seek to leverage the Argentine government’s Incentive Regime for Large Investments (RIGI) to support this critical infrastructure project. This strategic investment aligns with YPF’s commitment to developing Argentina’s energy resources and strengthening the country’s position as a key player…
Orihuela Town Hall has partnered with the Norwegian foundation NORSAR to participate in the European Horizon project, TOGETHER. This initiative aims to enhance early warning systems and disaster management strategies across Europe. The project, which focuses on integrated governance for effective disaster management, will develop a comprehensive toolkit that includes innovative technologies and best practices. This toolkit will be tested in various European countries, including Spain, to assess its effectiveness in different contexts. By joining the TOGETHER project, Orihuela will benefit from the expertise of international partners and gain access to cutting-edge technologies. The city will also have the opportunity to contribute to the development of a more resilient and disaster-prepared Europe. Orihuela’s participation in the project is particularly significant given its vulnerability to natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes. By implementing the project’s recommendations, the city aims to strengthen its capacity to respond to emergencies and mitigate the impact of future disasters. This collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges, such as climate change and natural disasters. By sharing knowledge and resources, countries can work together to build a more resilient future.
The Middle East aviation sector is poised for significant growth, with airports in the region set to invest over $151 billion in capacity expansion and passenger facility upgrades. According to the latest report from the Airports Council International (ACI) World, the global airport industry is experiencing a surge in demand, with passenger traffic expected to reach 9.5 billion in 2024. The Middle East, in particular, is witnessing substantial growth. By 2040, it is projected that airports in the region will handle 1.1 billion passengers annually. To accommodate this surge, airports are undergoing major expansion and modernization projects, totaling over $1.3 trillion in investment. Dubai, a global aviation hub, is at the forefront of this growth. The Dubai World Central airport, under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, is undergoing a $35 billion expansion to become the world’s largest airport, capable of handling up to 260 million passengers per year. The 24th edition of The Airport Show, scheduled for May 6-8, 2025, will serve as a crucial platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and explore the latest technologies and innovations. The event will showcase a wide range of solutions for enhancing airport operations, improving…
