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The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
TNB sparks earnings as well as RE prospects
Kenanga Research said significant investments are being channelled into new transmission infrastructure. PETALING JAYA: Tenaga Nasional Bhd 's (TNB) venture in Australia's renewable energy (RE) developer Spark Renewables is expected to continue enhancing its earnings and RE portfolio. Kenanga Research said the existing 2,000MW pipeline and an additional 1,600MW of new prospects in Australia would position TNB for expansion in both its earnings base and RE portfolio. Following the research house's visit to Spark Renewables in Sydney last week, Kenanga Research said it gained valuable insights into Australia's aggressive RE transition target of 82% by 2030 from 38% currently. In 2023, TNB expanded Down Under by acquiring Spark Renewables which currently owns and operates the 120MW Bomen Solar Farm with three major development projects in the pipeline, namely the 1,000MW Dinawan Energy Hub, 400MW Mallee Wind Farm and 600MW Wattle Creek Energy Hub. All the projects are located in New South Wales (NSW) and are aligned with the state's renewable energy zone development framework. 'In addition, there are opportunities exceeding 1.6GW for Spark Renewables across NSW, South Australia and Queensland,' the research house said in a report yesterday. The Spark Renewables acquisition was funded through debt financing from Australian banks and did not require capital remittance from Malaysia. Australia's electricity sector is different from Malaysia's vertically integrated model. In Australia, the National Electricity Market (NEM) covers the eastern and southern states, namely Queensland, NSW, Victoria, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory, while Western Australia and the Northern Territory operate separately. 'Each state has its own regulatory authority, and the electricity supply chain is unbundled, with different entities handling generation, transmission, distribution, and retail,' the research house said. Renewables contributed 38% of the NEM's generation mix, with a target to reach 82% by 2030. Most coal-fired power plants are scheduled for decommissioning before 2040. 'According to the Energy Market Consulting associates, the last coal capacity is expected to retire by 2038, while gas-fired generation is forecast to increase from 11.5GW to 15GW by 2050,' the research house said. Meanwhile, gridscale wind and solar capacity is projected to grow six-fold from 21GW to 127GW, with storage capacity expanding from 3GW to 49GW over the same period. To support the transition, Kenanga Research stated that significant investments are being channelled into new transmission infrastructure. The Integrated System Plan by the Australian Energy Market Operator outlines about 10,000km of new transmission lines by 2050, primarily to connect new renewable generation to the grid. The research house said there are more than 1.6GW new capacity opportunities for Spark Renewables which owns and operates one generating asset – the 120MW Bomen Solar Farm in NSW. 'The company is progressing into three major greenfield development projects, namely Dinawan Energy Hub (1,000MW), Mallee Wind Farm (400MW) and Wattle Creek Energy Hub (600MW). 'In addition to the three anchor projects, Spark Renewables has a broader pipeline of over 1.6GW across NSW, South Australia, and Queensland, positioning the platform as a strategic growth vehicle in TNB's international renewable portfolio,' Kenanga Research said. There are actionable transmission projects worth A$28bil over the next decade.
Observer
17-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Green hydrogen: Treasure to global energy markets
As the global pursuit of carbon neutrality accelerates, green hydrogen is quickly emerging as the cornerstone of a cleaner energy future and Oman is uniquely positioned to lead the charge. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Sultanate of Oman is not simply embracing another alternative fuel; it is shaping its role as a pivotal player in the energy systems of tomorrow. With abundant solar radiation, expansive wind corridors, promising government policies, and world-class port infrastructure, Oman offers an unrivaled combination of natural and logistical assets. While others contend with sluggish bureaucracy, Oman has enacted agile policies and rolled out attractive incentives that are already drawing serious investment. This proactive approach provides the country with a vital head start. But the implications go far beyond economic gains. In an era when energy independence equates to geopolitical influence, green hydrogen presents Oman with a chance to move from energy supplier to strategic architect on the global stage. Globally, green hydrogen momentum is building at unprecedented speed. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that global electrolyser capacity could reach between 134 and 850 gigawatts by 2030, with up to 8 million tonnes of hydrogen produced annually. Germany has pledged €9 billion to establish 5 GW of domestic electrolyser capacity. Japan has earmarked $21 billion over 15 years in subsidies. Meanwhile, Australia's Western Renewable Energy Hub envisions up to 26 GW of combined solar and wind dedicated to green hydrogen and ammonia export. Saudi Arabia's $8.4 billion NEOM project plans to deliver 1.2 million tonnes of green ammonia annually by 2026 using 3.9 GW of renewable capacity. For Oman, this transition is not just about sustainability. It's a strategic leap one that can reshape the national economy and redefine the country's place in global energy geopolitics. With abundant solar radiation, expansive wind corridors, promising government policies, and world-class port infrastructure, Oman offers an unrivaled combination of natural and logistical assets. Oman, however, is not simply following this trend it is writing its own chapter. Under Vision 2040 and its National Energy Strategy, the country aims to generate 30% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. Established in 2022, Hydrogen Oman (Hydrom) oversees the licensing, policy frameworks, land auctions, and infrastructure required to scale up the hydrogen economy. By early 2024, Hydrom had signed six landmark agreements around the ports of Duqm and Salalah, partnering with major global firms such as BP, ACME, Uniper-DEME (Hyport Duqm), EDF-JPower-Yamna, ACTIS-Fortescue, Green Energy Oman, and Marubeni Samsung. These deals, which represent approximately 15 GW of planned renewable capacity, are expected to produce over 700,000 tonnes of green hydrogen and draw nearly $20 billion in investment. Time is of the essence. As countries advance toward 2050 net-zero commitments, Oman's natural endowment and control over key maritime routes position it to seize a narrowing window of opportunity. Green hydrogen's promise lies not only in its environmental credentials produced via renewable-powered electrolysis with zero emissions but in its remarkable versatility. Unlike grey hydrogen, which emits greenhouse gases, or blue hydrogen, which depends on still-unproven carbon capture technologies, green hydrogen has the unique ability to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors like steel manufacturing, aviation, maritime shipping, road transport, fertiliser production and large-scale renewable energy storage. Among the standout projects is Hyport Duqm, a collaboration between OQ, Uniper, and DEME Group, which will use 1.3 GW of solar and wind to operate a 500 MW electrolyser system, generating 60,000 tonnes of green hydrogen per year, convertible into 330,000 tonnes of green ammonia. Phase one is set for 2026. Meanwhile, ACME's Duqm based facility, a $3.5 billion project powered by 3 GW of solar and 500 MW of wind, aims to deliver up to 900,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually. In Salalah, consortia including EDF/JPower/Yamna and ACTIS-Fortescue plan to install 4–4.5 GW of renewable capacity to produce between 175,000 and 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually, with the goal of exporting one million tonnes of green ammonia. These initiatives are beginning to pay off. Oman is projected to claim 60% of the Middle East's green hydrogen exports by 2030, outpacing regional competitors like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Beyond decarbonisation, this shift offers economic resilience. As oil and gas gradually decline in global relevance, hydrogen promises to diversify Oman's GDP, stabilise state revenues, and create an estimated 70,000 high-skill jobs, including 17,000 leadership roles, by 2050. Oman's integrated strategy sets it apart. Unlike nations struggling with fragmented regulations or isolated infrastructure, Oman offers a coordinated, investor-ready ecosystem led by Hydrom and supported by free-trade zones in Duqm and Salalah. Its hydrogen program matches or surpasses benchmark initiatives like Saudi Arabia's NEOM or Australia's Pilbara region not just in capacity but in execution. Now entering its implementation phase, Oman's hydrogen vision is rapidly becoming reality. What began as policy ambition is evolving into structural transformation. Green hydrogen is reinvigorating industry, attracting global alliances, and enhancing Oman's international profile. Guided by Vision 2040 and powered by its renewable wealth, Oman is no longer just entering the hydrogen race; it is helping define it.
Perth Now
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Aussie-first hydrogen servo opens
Australia's first hydrogen refuelling station has opened in Geelong, setting the stage for the regional city to be serviced by hydrogen-powered and emission-free heavy vehicles. The renewable facility is the first of its kind in the country and also offers fast charging for commercial electric vehicles. Deputy Prime Minister and local member Richard Marles attended the launch of the station and said it represented 'the future'. 'This is a really significant step and actually, I think, a very memorable day in Australia's renewable energy story, but very much in Australia's hydrogen story,' said Mr Marles. 'Hydrogen is a great hope in terms of decarbonising the Australian economy and actually globally, dealing with the challenge of climate change. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles attended the official opening the Viva Energy Hub in Geelong. NewsWire / Luis Enrique Ascui Credit: News Corp Australia 'We are so well positioned as a nation, given our abundant renewable energy sources in solar and wind, but also because we're at the forefront of commercial long distance vehicle use, which is really one of the great applications of hydrogen as a commercial fuel.' He said the new refuelling station was 'so important' and the government was looking forward to further use of hydrogen in commercial transport. Viva Energy chief strategy officer Lachlan Pfeiffer said it marked a change in Australia's efforts to reduce emissions and make a more sustainable heavy transport sector. 'Offering hydrogen refuelling alongside fast charging for commercial EV vehicles – and the potential for renewable diesel in the future – is recognition that we believe the pathway to net zero will require a mix of new fuels and technologies alongside traditional offerings,' he said. The station will be capable of dispensing at least 300kg of hydrogen every two hours, which Viva said would give a similar experience to filling up a diesel engine. It should be capable of refuelling at least 10 trucks at once. The facility is reportedly capable of refuelling 10 heavy vehicles at once. NewsWire / Luis Enrique Ascui Credit: News Corp Australia The project will use renewable electricity to generate green hydrogen, using recycled water from the nearby Barwon Water Northern Water Plant. Barwon Water managing director Shaun Cumming said the facility would help decarbonise its vehicle fleet. 'We're excited to work with Viva Energy and the other vehicle operators on an innovative project that could deliver lasting benefits for the region and beyond.' Viva said the scale of hydrogen production in the region meant there would be capacity to sell it onwards to other commercial customers.
Scottish Sun
29-05-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Major energy supplier to give away 80 hours of FREE electricity from next week – but you need to sign up now
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A MAJOR energy supplier is handing out a whopping 80 hours of free electricity, but you'll need to act fast to get it. EDF is bringing back its popular Sunday Saver challenge this summer, offering customers a chance to slash their bills by earning free electricity. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Thousands of households could get up to 16 hours of free electricity every week Credit: Getty - Contributor The offer kicks off on Monday, June 2 and runs throughout the month, giving households the chance to rack up free power to use. Five Sundays of up to 16 hours of free electricity will be up for grabs. That's a total of 80 hours of free electricity over the two month period. The dates include June 15, June 22 and June 29, followed by July 6 and July 13. The scheme is open to customers now, but you must sign up before 11.59pm on Sunday, June 1 to take part. How it works To qualify, you'll need a smart meter that sends readings to EDF every 30 minutes. Then it's all about shifting your electricity use away from peak times which are between 4pm and 7pm on weekdays. The more energy you save during those hours, the more free electricity you'll earn to use on Sunday. Some customers could pocket up to 16 hours of free energy per week, credited directly to their account. EDF's Retail Director, Rich Hughes, said: 'We launched Sunday Saver to help customers save cash and carbon, all while contributing to a more sustainable energy system. Martin Lewis reveals MILLIONS more households could get £150 energy bill discount – check if you're eligible "We're thrilled that over 154,000 customers have already benefited from free electricity as a reward for adjusting their daily usage habits and helping to ease the strain on the electricity grid during peak times.' The initiative has already dished out over eight million free hours of electricity and helped customers save a combined £2million. EDF is the only energy supplier offering five Sundays of free electricity in June and July, making this one of the most generous energy-saving challenges on the market. Customers who've taken part in the past are full of praise. One commented online: 'I love EDF, I get loads of free electric, sometimes I've had whole days of free power.' Once signed up, participants can track their progress and energy usage through EDF's Energy Hub via their MyAccount dashboard. The provider says that households using the Energy Hub can save up to £41 a year just by making smarter decisions around their electricity use – and cut down on carbon emissions at the same time. This latest challenge from EDF is part of a wider push from energy companies to get customers using power more flexibly. How does it compare? While EDF's Sunday Saver is one of the most generous, other suppliers are offering perks too. Next gives away free electricity on every bank holiday to customers on its Pledge tariff, and Ovo Energy offers two free hours of electricity every week through its rewards programme, Ovo Beyond. Meanwhile, Scottish Power and Octopus Energy also run discount or cashback schemes tied to smart meter usage. But if you're looking to bag multiple full days of free electricity this summer, EDF's Sunday Saver is your best bet. How do I calculate my energy bill? BELOW we reveal how you can calculate your own energy bill. To calculate how much you pay for your energy bill, you must find out your unit rate for gas and electricity and the standing charge for each fuel type. The unit rate will usually be shown on your bill in p/ standing charge is a daily charge that is paid 365 days of the year - irrespective of whether or not you use any gas or electricity. You will then need to note down your own annual energy usage from a previous bill. Once you have these details, you can work out your gas and electricity costs separately. Multiply your usage in kWh by the unit rate cost in p/kWh for the corresponding fuel type - this will give you your usage costs. You'll then need to multiply each standing charge by 365 and add this figure to the totals for your usage - this will then give you your annual costs. Divide this figure by 12, and you'll be able to determine how much you should expect to pay each month from April 1. Energy bill to drop Millions of households are set to save money this summer, as the energy price cap drops from £1,849 to £1,720. The cut, which takes effect from July, means a typical household could save around £129 a year, or roughly 7%. Over 22million homes on standard variable tariffs will be directly affected by the drop, which is reviewed by Ofgem every three months. Experts at Cornwall Insight had accurately predicted the cut, which will offer some much-needed relief as energy costs remain a major concern for many. Under the new cap, electricity will cost around 25.73p per kWh, with a daily standing charge of 51.37p. However, the rates you pay may vary depending on your region, as charges are set locally. It's also worth noting the price cap limits the unit rates suppliers can charge — not your total bill. So if you use more energy, you'll still pay more. The current cap of £1,849 runs until the end of June, so if you're shopping around, now's a good time to compare deals. You can check which suppliers which suppliers are offering the best deals. If you are struggling with costs then you can take action as you could be missing out on free boilers and energy bill discounts. You may also be able to get a free energy grant to help you with your bills.
Associated Press
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Lightstate Secures Planning Permission for Landmark Smart Energy Hub in Paving the Way for the UK's Net Zero Future
'At Lightstate, we are proud and excited to have reached this important milestone. Our vision is to bring the promise of EV to all drivers through exceptional service and beautiful design.'— Alex Hearn LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, May 19, 2025 / / -- Lightstate, the visionary energy technology company reshaping the future of mobility, has officially secured planning permission to build its inaugural Lightstation, a pioneering Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Energy Hub near Whittington in Worcestershire. Strategically positioned along the A4440 to serve residents of Worcester and commuters of the M5, this flagship development marks the beginning of a bold national rollout designed to redefine public EV infrastructure through a fusion of intelligent energy technologies and visionary architecture. The Whittington Lightstation represents a transformative leap in the UK's journey towards clean mobility. The site will be exclusively equipped with state-of-the-art Ultra-Rapid charging technology, with every element of the Lightstation's design focused on guaranteeing a best-in-class experience and redefining drivers' expectations in this sector. Lightstate's customer-centric approach fuses architecture, design and technology giving drivers an experience that is above and beyond traditional EV charging and combustion engine refuelling. At its core is an underlying philosophy that sets this development apart; an ambitious fusion of smart grid utilisation, onsite battery storage, and embedded solar generation—integrated seamlessly into a purpose-built structure that reimagines the aesthetic and delivers on the optimistic, futuristic promise of EV ownership. 'The design was considered in the context of creating a positive environment, aligning with the principle that advice in the NPPF, which states that the creation of high-quality, beautiful and sustainable buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning and development process should achieve.' Wychavon Council, April 24th, 2025, Decision Notice to Lightstate™ Limited. From the curved canopy embedded with photovoltaic panels to the thermal efficiency of its materials, every design element of the Lightstation reflects a commitment to innovation and sustainability. 'At Lightstate, we are proud and excited to have reached this important milestone. Our vision is to bring the promise of EV to all drivers through exceptional service and beautiful design. We are looking forward to delivering on this promise and serving the drivers of Worcestershire for many years to com,e' Alex Hearn, CEO & Founder. Lightstate's proprietary architecture and integrated renewables technology ensure that the hub does not merely reduce its carbon footprint—it actively reduces demand on the local grid, using real-time energy optimisation to balance supply and demand. The entire site will be powered by 100% renewable energy, affirming Lightstate's mission to inspire and deliver a combustion-free tomorrow. About Lightstate: Lightstate's mission is to design and scale the world's most customer-centric energy hubs and continually raise the bar to accelerate clean mobility. We are passionate about building a world that is more bold and beautiful, inspiring the path to net zero and creating a sustainable future for generations to come. Natasha Hearn Lightstate [email protected] Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
