Energy

Italy Discusses New Nuclear Power Company

September 8, 2024

Italy Discusses New Nuclear Power Company

Italy is in preliminary discussions to form a new company to develop small nuclear reactors, involving state-backed Ansaldo Nucleare, energy giant Enel, and UK-based Newcleo. This follows Italy's energy minister’s announcement of plans to draft regulations by 2025 for new nuclear technologies.

BMW Builds Hungary's Largest Solar Power Plant in Debrecen

September 4, 2024

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BMW Builds Hungary's Largest Solar Power Plant in Debrecen

BMW is constructing Hungary's largest solar power plant in Debrecen, a project that also marks the largest industrial solar installation for BMW globally. The solar park, covering an area equivalent to 71 football fields, will supply over 25% of the energy needed for BMW’s electric vehicle production at the Debrecen plant.

Eni and Snam Launch Italy's First Carbon Capture Project

September 4, 2024

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Eni and Snam Launch Italy's First Carbon Capture Project

Eni and Snam have initiated Italy's first carbon capture, transport, and storage (CCS) project, targeting heavy polluters. The project, located near Ravenna, captures and stores CO2 from Eni's natural gas plant in a depleted Adriatic Sea gas field. Initially, it will store 25,000 metric tons of CO2 annually, with plans to expand to 4 million tons by 2030.

UK Awards Nine Offshore Wind Farm Contracts to Boost Renewable Energy

September 3, 2024

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UK Awards Nine Offshore Wind Farm Contracts to Boost Renewable Energy

The UK government awarded nine offshore wind farm contracts, marking a significant step in green energy expansion after last year's auction saw no bids. These projects aim to power 11 million homes, but experts warn that more capacity is needed to meet the 2030 renewable energy goals.

French Government Cancels €330mn "Rhônergia" Hydroelectric Dam Project

September 2, 2024

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French Government Cancels €330mn "Rhônergia" Hydroelectric Dam Project

The French government has decided to cancel the "Rhônergia" hydroelectric project on the Rhône River, citing concerns raised by local and regional officials. The project, promoted by Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (CNR), aimed to enhance energy independence and fight climate change.

Equinor Cancels Offshore Wind Projects in Spain and Portugal

August 30, 2024

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Equinor Cancels Offshore Wind Projects in Spain and Portugal

Norwegian energy giant Equinor has canceled its offshore wind projects in Spain and Portugal due to rising costs in the sector, driven by inflation, high interest rates, and supply chain delays. This decision follows its earlier exit from Vietnam and signals the company’s broader strategy to prioritize capital in response to escalating expenses. Despite these setbacks, Equinor continues to pursue other major projects, including the Dogger Bank wind farm in the UK and the Empire Wind project near New York.

Switzerland to Lift Ban on Building New Nuclear Power Stations

August 30, 2024

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Switzerland to Lift Ban on Building New Nuclear Power Stations

The Swiss government announced plans to overturn its ban on constructing new nuclear power plants to enhance energy security in response to rising geopolitical tensions. Energy Minister Albert Roesti revealed that the proposal to amend nuclear legislation would be presented by the end of 2024, aiming for parliamentary debate next year. This move reverses Switzerland's 2017 decision to phase out atomic energy following the Fukushima disaster. Critics, including environmental groups, argue that the country is still falling short in its climate commitments.

Poland and Hungary Lead Rapid Growth in Central Eastern European Solar Energy Production

August 27, 2024

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Poland and Hungary Lead Rapid Growth in Central Eastern European Solar Energy Production

Solar energy production in Central Eastern Europe, led by Poland and Hungary, is growing at a rate that far exceeds that of wealthier regions in Europe, with a 55% increase recorded in the first seven months of 2024.