Energy

IFC to help finance first sustainable aviation fuel facility in Pakistan and broader region

IFC is providing up to $35 million in equity and debt financing to SAFCO Venture Holdings Limited (SAFCO Ventures) to help establish Pakistan’s first greenfield sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility, which will convert thousands of tons of used cooking oil and other waste oils into aviation fuel, helping to reduce global emissions. IFC’s investment, mostly in the form of long-term patient equity capital, has been instrumental in anchoring this project and financing a nascent sector. The project is expected to help promote a circular economy in Pakistan, create jobs, and support export-led growth. SAF, a biofuel made from renewable biomass and waste resources, can reduce life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 94 percent compared to conventional jet fuel. The transport sector accounts for about a quarter of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with aviation contributing 13.9 percent of these emissions, making it the second-largest source of emissions in the sector after road transport. Producing SAF is therefore expected to help reduce global emissions. The new 200,000 tons-per-annum (TPA) facility in Sheikhupura, Punjab will collect 250,000 tons of feedstock oil annually and convert it into SAF, helping to reduce more than 500,000 tons of CO2 annually. It is also expected to create 300 direct jobs through the transfer of technology and technical training and lead to an estimated 20,000 indirect jobs in the waste-to-fuel value chain, while generating foreign exchange revenue for Pakistan through SAF exports. IFC’s $35 million financing package comprises $30 million equity and $5 million debt. Of the total equity contribution, $20 million is from its own account and an additional investment of up to $10 million is from a climate-related blended finance program (CIFPAK) that was recently launched in partnership with the UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office. The facility, the first-of-its-kind in South […]

Nexif Ratch Energy Secures Financial Close 145MWp Bacolod Solar Power Project in the Philippines

Nexif Ratch Energy, a leading independent power producer focused on renewable energy solutions, is thrilled to announce the financial close of its 145MWp Bacolod Solar Power Project, its second solar power project in the Philippines. The Bacolod Solar Power Project, developed by Negros PH Solar Inc, is located across Bacolod City and Bago City in the Negros Occidental province. It is a 145 MWp ground-mounted solar photovoltaic project that will connect to NGCP’s Bacolod Substation and can potentially power to up to 52,600 households. Majority of its output will be sold through a 10-year Power Supply Agreement to a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation, with the remainder to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. The project investment of more than US$100m is funded by equity from Nexif Ratch Energy and project finance facilities from Security Bank Corporation and Philippine National Bank on a limited recourse basis, with SB Capital Investment Corporation acting as the Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner and PNB Capital and Investment Corporation acting as Arranger. Construction is set to begin in October 2024, with the goal of achieving commercial operations by Q4 2025. Focus is now on an expansion on the existing site, through increased solar PV capacity of up to 20 MW and a Battery Energy Storage System. Beyond its Calabanga and Bacolod solar projects, Nexif Ratch Energy is developing wind energy projects including the San Miguel Bay Project, a nearshore wind project with a capacity of up to 500 MW and the Lucena Project, an offshore wind project with a capacity of up to 475 MW. Mr Surender Singh, Chairman of Nexif Ratch Energy, said “The successful financial close of our 145MWp Bacolod Solar Farm highlights the exceptional collaboration with our partners and the dedication of our local development team. We are excited to bring this […]

Water-Energy Efficiencies: The Catalyst to Semiconductor Sustainability

–Eric Lai, Senior Regional Sales Director for Industry APAC Fuelled by the explosive growth of emerging markets like AI and electric vehicles, the semiconductor industry – which manufactures the essential materials that power these technologies – is poised to grow into a massive trillion-dollar industry by 2030[1]. At the very heart of this growth lies Southeast Asia, as markets in the region actively pursue opportunities to capture higher value-add positions within the burgeoning global industry. In fact, Singapore’s Minister of State of Trade and Industry called for efforts for the state to sharpen its competitive edge in the semiconductor industry as it aims to double its manufacturing sector’s value by 2030[2]. However, despite the semiconductor industry’s immense potential for economic growth, its notorious thirst for water and energy stand at direct odds with Southeast Asia’s climate ambitions, wherein most countries across the region have committed to carbon neutrality by 2050. How can the growth of semiconductor manufacturing be reconciled with these climate targets to achieve balanced and sustainable long-term development? The Water-Energy Nexus in Semiconductor Manufacturing Intensifying climate events around the globe have brought the semiconductor industry’s immense resource consumption to the fore. Growing concerns about global water shortages have placed the sector’s water usage under scrutiny, while its substantial electricity consumption remains a focal point of concern. However, discussions about these resources tend to occur in silos, with limited focus on the water-energy nexus – which refers to the interdependent relationship between both resources. For instance, considerable energy is required to treat and move water in semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs); conversely, water is critical for the energy generation processes that power these facilities. To truly drive sustainability in this sector, there needs to be a concerted effort to move beyond traditional energy reduction to target the energy-intensive water processes […]

Seven Companies Announce to Conduct Engineering Design Work for Japanese Advanced CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage) Project

ITOCHU Corporation, Nippon Steel Corporation, Taiheiyo Cement Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., INPEX CORPORATION, Taisei Corporation, and ITOCHU Oil Exploration Co., Ltd. have been selected by the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (hereinafter “JOGMEC”) to conduct “Engineering Design Work for Japanese Advanced CCS Projects” (hereinafter “Work”), a public offered project.(1) CCS is positioned as a means for decarbonisation that should be fully harnessed, particularly in hard-to-abate industries(Note2), to achieve two targets set by the Japanese government: carbon neutrality in 2050 and a 46% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (from FY2013 level) in FY2030. To expedite social implementation of CCS, JOGMEC issued a public call for advanced CCS projects in 2023 with the goal of achieving the successful underground storage of domestically-emitted carbon dioxide (CO2) by FY2030. And the Initiative was selected as one of the first advanced CCS projects in Japan to be eligible for governmental support. The Initiative involves the concept of using ships to transport CO2 separated and captured at the Nippon Steel’s Kyushu Works Oita Area and the Kawasaki Plant of DC CO., Ltd., a Taiheiyo Cement Group company, to candidate storage sites. In FY2023, a feasibility study was conducted relating to the CO2 separation, capture, transportation and storage, which included identifying technical issues in the overall project as well as studies on economic viability and public acceptance.(3) The Work selected this time includes Front End Engineering Design (FEED) work relating to the separation, capture, ship transportation and storage of CO2 and appraisal drilling, as the next phase of the project.(4) Based on the results of the feasibility study mentioned above, basic engineering design work will be carried out from the perspectives of both technical and economic viability for each element of the value chain with the goal of starting operations by FY2030. The seven […]

Energy Struggles Highlight Need for AI-based Solutions for Buildings in Asia

Recent studies conducted in South Korea and Hong Kong reveal that current energy efficiency measures for buildings are not sustainable. AI experts provide a solution with a 10x faster payback period than building renovation. As cities strive to meet carbon neutrality goals by 2050, energy efficiency in high-density urban centers located in Asia has become critical. Recent studies conducted in Hong Kong and South Korea highlight major challenges, ranging from regulatory to financial issues. “High-density urban centers are at the forefront of sustainability and our fight against climate change, yet they face significant hurdles in achieving energy efficiency. We need to put more focus on energy performance management in Asia if we want to reach net-zero goals in as little as 30 years,” said Donatas Karčiauskas, CEO of Exergio, a company that provides AI-based solutions for energy management in commercial buildings. A comprehensive analysis of 36 office building retrofits in Hong Kong identified 23 major challenges, including inadequate government incentives and long payback periods. Regulatory hurdles emerged as the primary barriers, followed closely by financial concerns. In South Korea, the effectiveness of the Building Energy Efficiency Certification (BEEC) system has been questioned. The study indicates that current certification levels might not reflect true energy efficiency, revealing significant energy consumption discrepancies in office buildings and educational facilities. “When traditional retrofitting is not feasible, AI-based energy performance tools offer a viable alternative,” stated Karčiauskas. “First of all, AI-driven platforms are easier to implement and their payback periods are up to 10 times faster, on average 2 years instead of 10. AI energy performance tools also provide real-time data and actionable insights to reduce energy consumption and emissions.” In previous projects conducted in various countries across Europe, Exergio’s AI platform reduced energy waste by up to 20% in office buildings. These numbers are […]

“Engineered for Good” purpose-driven brand message for Southeast Asia

Global technology leader, Epson, has unveiled its revitalised brand message, “Engineered for Good” in Southeast Asia. This pivotal shift underscores Epson’s commitment to marry innovation with purpose by co-creating cutting-edge technology solutions that contribute towards a sustainable future. In an era where brands are distinguished by their values and aspirations, Epson redefines its identity to champion sustainability and meaningful innovation. The shift from its former brand message “It’s In the Details” heralds a new purpose for Epson to go beyond product excellence and leverage on technology as a way to enrich communities. Epson’s corporate philosophy of ‘sho-sho-sei’ – or, ‘efficient, compact, and precise’ in Japanese – also aligns with this new brand message. “The actions of individuals and businesses, no matter how small, will play an important part in helping Southeast Asia achieve a sustainable future. Epson recognises that sustainability is a foundational element of responsible business practices. Hence, it is important that we communicate and advocate the use of Epson’s eco-efficient technology which helps reduce energy consumption, enhance productivity, and minimise the overall environmental impact of every Epson product,” shares Tan May Lin, Regional Director of Brand and Communications, Epson Southeast Asia. “Our ‘Engineered for Good’ brand campaign reflects Epson’s unique philosophy of delivering efficient, compact and precise innovations. By further embracing innovation, we aim to combat global environmental challenges and societal issues, to enrich people’s lives and contribute to a better world.” This brand shift also builds on Epson’s momentum towards its Environmental Vision 2050, which stipulates a goal to become carbon negative and underground resource-free by 2050. At the end of 2023, Epson Southeast Asia adopted 100% renewable energy at all major sites and factories worldwide. Specifically in Southeast Asia, Epson also completely phased out laser printers at the end of 2023, due to laser technology’s limited […]

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners inaugurates Changfang-Xidao offshore wind farms in Taiwan

The Changfang-Xidao project is Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners’ (CIP) first offshore wind farms in Asia Pacific. Taipei, Taiwan and Copenhagen, Denmark: At a ceremony in Taipei, Taiwan, CIP today officially celebrated that it has completed construction of the Changfang-Xidao offshore wind project. With a total capacity of nearly 600 MW, the two offshore wind farms increase Taiwan’s combined offshore capacity by approximately 25% and contribute significantly to its energy transition and ambitious net-zero goals. Changfang-Xidao has one of the highest degrees of localisation, i.e. use of local suppliers and vendors, in the history of Taiwan’s offshore wind industry. The wind farms are located 11 km off the west coast of Taiwan and consist of 62 Vestas V174 turbines and jacket foundations supplied by Taiwan’s Century Wind Power. When fully operational, Changfang-Xidao will generate enough renewable energy to power around 650,000 local households and will deliver an annual expected CO2 reduction of 1.1 million tons. Changfang-Xidao are CIP’s first offshore wind farms in Asia Pacific, which has developed into a key offshore market. CIP has a significant portfolio of 21 GW offshore wind in the Asia Pacific and is among the frontrunners in the build-out of offshore wind in Korea and Australia, as well as Taiwan. Christina Grumstrup Sørensen, Senior Partner at CIP, says: “The inauguration of Changfang-Xidao is a landmark for CIP as well as for the offshore wind industry in Taiwan. In the past seven years, the development and construction team, suppliers, partners and shareholders have demonstrated the power of close collaboration. Together we have successfully constructed a project that makes a meaningful contribution to Taiwan’s energy transition and that plays a significant role in the establishment of the local offshore wind industry – and will support Taiwan’s long-term offshore wind ambitions.” Mads Skovgaard Andersen, Partner at CIP, commented: “I […]

Partnership addresses clean energy ecosystem

Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), a global semiconductor leader, and VinFast, a leading Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer will partner to advance Battery Management System (BMS) solutions for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Energy Storage System (ESS). The joint efforts aim to address key challenges faced by the clean energy ecosystem by driving solutions that help improve battery efficiency and lifetime performance, EV range, and charging times. ADI is at the forefront of enabling the next wave of EVs, boasting a leading position in the automotive BMS market by working with 16 of the top 20 global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM)s. ADI also previously introduced the industry’s first wireless Battery Management Systems (wBMS), which eliminates wiring harness and enables scaling of EV fleets via robotic manufacturing and allows flexible and lighter battery packs design. Beyond this, ADI is driving innovation across electric powertrains, immersive cabin experiences and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). ADI’s central position is in the clean energy ecosystem, encompassing renewable generation, energy storage, transmission and distribution, and electrified mobility. This unique positioning gives the company a unique perspective into the challenges and opportunities involved in the transition to clean energy. Vietnam’s emergence as a significant semiconductor production hubmarks a pivotal moment in the country’s technological evolution. The Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association forecasts that the country will reach 1 million EVs by 2028 and 3.5 million by 2040 demonstrating a substantial shift towards electric mobility in the region. In its capacity as Vietnam’s leading EV manufacturer with global aspirations, VinFast stands to leverage its expertise and industry insights to enhance strategic initiatives within the Vietnamese automotive market. Meanwhile, ADI extends access to the latest BMS solutions, signalling a collaborative effort aiming at driving advancements within Southeast Asia’s EV ecosystem. This push toward electric mobility not only aligns with global trends […]

REDEX to partner TNBX to support Malaysia Green Attribute Trading System platform

REDEX will be an exclusive partner to TNBX to support the development of the Malaysia Green Attribute Trading System (mGATS) into the country’s preeminent digital trading platform for Malaysia Renewable Energy Certificates (mREC). The upgraded platform will provide a new avenue for businesses to conveniently pursue their renewable energy commitments and accelerate the nation’s pursuit of a sustainable energy future. Launched five years ago as an information hub on RECs, the revamped mGATS will leverage REDEX’s innovative technological solutions to facilitate live trading and auctions while providing users with price transparency for mRECs acquisition. REDEX Founder and CEO Kang Jen Wee said, “REDEX is honoured to be chosen by TNBX as a partner for the development of mGATS into a premier digital trading platform for the Malaysian market. We are excited to be part of the country’s journey to create a sustainable future for current and future generations. “This collaboration also deepens our presence in Malaysia and highlights our innovative technological solutions to the wider REC industry. It also paves the way for deploying such similar proven solutions in other countries. Utilising our expertise and experience, REDEX will work closely with TNBX to enable more renewable electricity certification in Malaysia.” A wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysia’s leading utility company Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), TNBX is the premier one-stop mREC solutions provider for Malaysian consumers and businesses. TNBX Managing Director, Ir. Mohd Razif Abd Halim said, “The revamped mGATS is a significant step forward in Malaysia’s journey towards low carbon energy future. In line with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), this initiative will promote renewable energy and bolster the country’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. “We are pleased to have REDEX, an experienced REC solution provider as our exclusive partner and we look forward to working with […]

Sweetch Energy to use turnkey process control platform from Rockwell Automation

French renewables startup to leverage extensive domain expertise and global presence to help scale its osmotic power generation technology for the first time Rockwell Automation will support the automation of Sweetch Energy’s unique power generation technology through the deployment of a process control system and remote operations visualisation. Sweetch Energy’s first osmotic demonstrator plant is currently under construction and will soon be operational at the Barcarin lock in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, France. The company plans to deploy several osmotic stations at the mouth of the Rhône to harness natural osmotic energy. These stations will represent up to 500 MW of carbon-free electricity production capacity, capable of supplying more than 1.5 million people – the equivalent to the population of cities such as Marseille and its surrounding areas, Barcelona, Amsterdam or Montreal. “Sweetch Energy mirrors our own deep commitment to sustainability and the development of enabling technologies,” said Eric Chalengeas, regional vice president, south region, Rockwell Automation. “We are delighted that our process solutions, visualization technology and domain expertise are being deployed in such a fascinating project. As well as helping Sweetch Energy scale and enhance its technology, our global presence will also help it expand into other regions, where we can continue to offer comprehensive global service and support.” Osmotic energy is naturally generated by the difference in salinity between freshwater and seawater. The INOD (Ionic Nano Osmotic Diffusion) technology developed by Sweetch Energy is the first technology of its kind to be marketed on an industrial scale. Manufactured using environmentally friendly bio-sourced materials, the osmotic generators using the technology can be located at any estuary or delta. Water is the only input in the process and is fully returned to the river mouth, with no chemical waste or pollutants created. And, unlike other renewables, it is not dependent on weather conditions […]

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