Techniques developed by researchers at Queen Mary University of London and Imperial College London could help provide raw materials needed for sustainable alternatives to conventional lithium-ion batteries.

A handful of critical chemical elements, including lithium, cobalt and graphite, power rechargeable batteries at the heart of everything from mobile phones to large-scale electricity grid storage.

Demand for these essential materials is set to grow as more countries move away from fossil fuels, and so will the environmental and geopolitical impacts of their mining and disposal.

Dr Maria Crespo, lecturer in Green Energy at Queen Mary, will be exhibiting her team’s work on future batteries research at this year’s Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, a free public festival of science held at the Society’s central London home from 2 – 7 July.​

“Moving away from fossils fuels is an essential part of any plan to transition to net zero,” Dr Crespo said.​

“However, if we continue to rely on lithium-ion batteries as the only option for fuelling our future, we are swapping one unsustainable, environmentally damaging resource for another.​

“We need to diversify our batteries, so we are not relying on one group of scarce elements for every energy storage task, and we need to think much more carefully about how we reuse our materials when their lifespan is up.”​

A 2023 review^[1] forecast that, by 2040, demand for lithium, cobalt and nickel in electric vehicle batteries would outstrip production, but that improved recycling could meet up to half the raw material demands.

Dr Crespo estimates that for the UK to meet the 2050 energy storage requirements projected by the National Grid with lithium-ion batteries alone, would require lithium equivalent to 14 times the weight of The Shard, London^[2].

But the critical elements used in lithium-ion batteries are relatively scarce. Lithium accounts for just 0.002% of the Earth’s crust and often elements like nickel and cobalt are found in geopolitically insecure regions or vulnerable ecosystems.

Last year, in collaboration with The Tyre Collective, Dr Crespo secured funds to transform particulates captured from vehicle tyres into components of sodium-ion batteries^[3], an alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

To be cost effective, alternative technologies like sodium-ion batteries, which have lower gram-for-gram energy storage potential, would have to be cheaper than lithium-ion to be cost effective.

Another recently patented technique^[4] is looking at how rarely recycled nylon packaging, and other plastics, could be converted into hard carbon battery electrodes at relatively low temperatures, reducing the demand for virgin graphite.

Diversifying our battery chemistry, and the sources of raw materials, can also improve the sustainability and efficiency of lithium batteries, which will remain important for high-energy uses.

Dr Heather Au, Royal Society University Research Fellow at Imperial College London and a member of the exhibit team is researching lithium-sulfur batteries made with waste from the paper industry.

“When we need to use lithium for the large amount of energy it can store, we can replace the critical cathode materials, like cobalt and nickel, with sulfur, a cheap, abundant and non-toxic element,” Dr Au said.

“We can produce these electrodes using lignin, which is a waste product of paper manufacturing that is, currently, mostly burned for heating.

“The advantage of using our technology for lithium-sulfur systems is that they are much lighter than conventional electrodes, which could increase the gram-for-gram energy storage potential.”

Visitors to the Summer Science Exhibition will have a chance to talk to the researchers behind the work and try their hand at making batteries of their own.

1. Maisel et al. 2023 A forecast on future raw material demand and recycling potential of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. Resources, Conservation and Recycling –https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921344923000575#
2. For reaching a target of 63 GWh of battery electrical storage in 2046. National Grid Electric System Operator, 2023, FES in Five, p. 10.
3. Material Matters exhibition shows new batteries and pressure sensors developed from tyre wear particles – https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/news/6520/material-matters-exhibition-shows-new-batteries-and-pressure-sensors-developed-from-tyre-wear-particles/
4. Upcycling plastic waste into high-capacity sodium-battery anodes – https://imperial.tech/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/11601_upcycling_plastic_waste_anodes_pub_MAY24.pdf

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Drax has reached agreement for the sale of up to 90,000 Small & Medium-sized (SME) customer meter points from Opus Energy Group Limited (Opus) to EDF Energy Customers Limited.

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Phase one of the Energy Hubs project examined the infrastructure, long-term investment, and technological innovations that will enable commercially viable and efficient energy hubs located in several key locations in Scotland, with the potential to reach 35 GW of hydrogen production capacity by 2045.

To realise this potential and capitalise on future export opportunities, the report recommends action including:

• Rapid investment targeted at next generation technologies and manufacturing processes to accelerate floating offshore wind
• Innovations in electrolyser technologies to improve the efficiency of hydrogen production while reducing system costs
• Development of highly efficient energy storage facilities with GWh capacities
• Optimising the integration of energy vectors within Energy Hubs, along with exploring further opportunities in alternative fuels and byproducts

Phase two of the project will continue to focus on the challenges of hydrogen and alternative fuels production while exploring the concept of a ‘Super Hub’. This will involve integrating several large-scale Energy Hubs to optimise their combined performance and achieve economies of scale, enhancing competitive export potential.

The Energy Hubs Project, which received funding from the Scottish Government’s Energy Transition Fund (ETF) and matched funding from industry, complements NZTC’s ‘Hydrogen Backbone Link’ project, which demonstrates the feasibility of exporting 0.9 million tonnes of hydrogen per year from Scotland to Europe via a new dedicated hydrogen pipeline. Several large-scale Energy Hubs, housing the necessary facilities for hydrogen production and its derivatives, will be crucial to the success of the Hydrogen Backbone Link.

Darren Gee, Programme Manager NZTTP at NZTC, said, “As the European hydrogen market expands, Scotland has the opportunity to establish itself as a leading producer and exporter of green hydrogen, positioning it as a major player in the future energy mix.

“The Energy Hubs project marks the formulation of an actionable plan for large-scale hydrogen production, underscoring the critical need for investment, infrastructure, and technological innovation. To address identified challenges, accelerating the development of smaller-scale projects is crucial. This approach will allow us to gain experience and establish a robust supply chain capable of supporting the pivotal large-scale projects necessary to seize this opportunity.”

The first phase of project has received support from partners including Altera, Crown Estate Scotland, EnQuest, Kellas Midstream, Port of Aberdeen, Shell, Shetland Island Council, SLB, Subsea 7, Verlume, Wood, Wood Mackenzie and Worley.

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Several factors, including a substantial uptick in the take-up of electric vehicles over the coming years are expected to put significant pressures on connections, both for at-home charging and out-of-home charging stations. At the same time, an increasing number of facilities with substantial power demands, such as data centres and battery storage facilities, are set to come online in the coming years.

As a result, many new connections are needed across the country, along with many hundreds of miles of power lines and associated infrastructure. This infrastructure must pass over and under numerous plots of land, owned by a similarly large number of businesses and individuals and with various usage restrictions, putting significant pressure on Designated Network Operators (DNOs) to ensure they have detailed and up-to-date information about land ownerships and rights

Tony Pratt, Head of Technical Services at TerraQuest, said, “Both long-distance high voltage power lines and short-distance infrastructure for new grid connections require the acquisition of, and new rights to be established, over land and, frequently, the use of Compulsory Acquisition powers. Obtaining these rights means having a comprehensive and up-to-date record of land ownership and any associated restrictions.”

He said that while HM Land Registry in principle holds a full record of land ownership in the UK, a single check at the start of a project is unlikely to be sufficient in the context of complex multi-year projects, where land ownership can change frequently and even be ambiguous or disputed.

“Land referencing needs to be an active and ongoing process, involving detailed research into the ownership and restrictions on the use of all land involved in a project,” added Tony.

“Without comprehensive and up-to-date intelligence about the status of land potentially affected by a project, there is a real risk of unnecessary delays in acquiring or gaining rights over land. When multiplied by potentially many hundreds of plots of land, the prospects of encountering costly issues rises substantially. This is a significant area of risk, given the urgent need to increase the speed of delivery of new grid connections.

“A comprehensive and detailed approach to land referencing, undertaken by specialist researchers is vital in ensuring upgraded grid infrastructure and connections are delivered as soon as possible.”

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Nuada, a UK-based carbon capture technology provider, has announced the launch of its pilot plant operation at Buzzi Unicem’s cement facility in Monselice, Italy. Buzzi, an Italian cement company with global operations, is trialling Nuada’s advanced carbon capture technology as a solution to produce low-carbon cement, leading the way in cement industry decarbonisation.

This pilot project marks a milestone in carbon capture innovation demonstrating the performance of Nuada’s next-generation technology within a cement manufacturing setting Nuada has developed an energy-efficient carbon capture solution by combining advanced solid sorbents named Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) with a mature vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) process. This innovative, electrically powered system separates CO₂ from industrial flue gases using pressure instead of heat and offers a promising approach to overcoming the energy, cost, and integration challenges associated with deploying traditional carbon capture solutions in industry.

“We are deploying the most energy-efficient carbon capture technology developed to date, a solution that redefines the decarbonisation landscape for hard-to-abate sectors like cement,” said Dr. Conor Hamill, Co-CEO of Nuada. Dr. Jose Casaban, Co-CEO of Nuada added “This plant demonstrates the robustness, scalability and game-changing benefits of our innovative capture system. Together with Buzzi, we are demonstrating the future of carbon capture in cement.”

This MOF-based VPSA carbon capture plant is fully operational now, capturing 1 tonne of CO₂ per day from cement flue gas. The project is backed by the Global Concrete and Cement Association (GCCA) and was initiated through GCCA’s Innovandi Open Challenge programme, an initiative that fosters collaborations between major cement producers and innovative technology providers to decarbonise cement production. The cement sector currently accounts for 7% of global carbon emissions, and according to the GCCA’s Net Zero Roadmap, carbon capture is the main decarbonisation lever.

“Our company has always been at the forefront of technology and search for innovative solutions” said Luigi Buzzi, CTO at Buzzi. “We are excited to host Nuada’s advanced carbon capture technology and start the pilot test campaign in Monselice: we look forward to confirm the high expectations that Nuada technology can play a leading role in the cement industry’s decarbonization journey”

Buzzi confirms his willingness to delve deeper into this and other technical issues, to raise awareness among the community of the efforts made towards the ambitious goal of Net Zero, i.e. carbon neutrality, set for 2050.

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My name is Zoë, I am 28 years old working as an Engineering Project Manager and living in London.

How long have you been doing your current job and what does it involve on a day to day basis?

I have been in my current role since February 2023 where I undertake project management responsibilities on a hospital decarbonisation construction project.

One of the aspects I love most about my role is the variety in my day-to-day work. No day is the same. Some days, I focus on writing reports and preparing documentation, while other days I am on-site, gaining hands-on experience, conducting safety inspections and observing the project’s progress. My weeks typically start off by gathering the team together to liaise and manage the delivery of the project with the client, ensuring we are on track with timelines and deliverables, complying with health and safety regulations and meeting financial targets.

In addition, I manage the solar photovoltaic works and lead a team, directly overseeing project delivery.

What do you love about it?

Without a doubt, my favourite aspect of the role is the people I get to work alongside. Large-scale construction projects require extensive planning, communication and teamwork. I take pride in managing a team where everyone has the same goals and is passionate about finding sustainable solutions, contributing to ecological transformation and combating climate change. I also love mentoring other strong, influential women and demonstrating what is possible.

At Veolia, the significance of my work extends far beyond the construction site. Each project contributes to a sustainable, net-zero future and it is a privilege to be part of a company that is actively shaping a better world for generations to come. In my role, I’m encouraged to bring new innovative ideas to the table to find the best solutions for our clients, which is something I love.

The feeling of reward and accomplishment once a project is complete is fantastic. We work in a high-pressure, demanding industry where the ability to learn and adapt quickly is crucial. However, with the right people and a strong team around you, the results can be exceptional.

What are the challenges?

Working in construction and project management can be challenging as we rely on various parties such as subcontractors and in-house teams, to deliver our products and services. When issues arise, we must react swiftly to resolve them. For large-scale projects like hospitals, which are part of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), adhering to timelines and budgets is crucial. Additionally, our projects often have higher upfront costs, so it is essential to demonstrate the return on investment, both in financial terms and carbon savings.

Did you always want to be an engineer? Why? Did you have any role models? What inspired you?

From the age of 17, I knew I wanted to be an engineer. It all started during a summer trip to a country in the Middle East, where I witnessed incredible innovations through the use of solar panels and new technology. Seeing such creative solutions to critical problems ignited a passion in me for engineering that has never waned.

Throughout my engineering journey, I found inspiration in the achievements of women like Dr. Frances Arnold, a chemical engineer and Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry. Her work in directed evolution has paved the way for sustainable solutions in various fields. Dr. Arnold’s perseverance and groundbreaking contributions have shown me that women can lead and innovate at the highest levels in engineering, reinforcing my determination to make a difference in my field.

While my path has been shaped by patience, grit and determination, I hope to serve as a role model for the next generation of women engineers, proving that with passion and resilience, we can achieve remarkable things.

What path did you take to being an engineer? Where did you study and what (and where) have been the stepping stones to get you where you are?

I was born and raised in Fulham, London and I moved to the United States with my family at the age of 15. The move was both exciting and daunting due to the different education system and environment. However, the flexibility of the courses in high school allowed me to explore my interests, something I am now very grateful for.

After high school, I studied environmental engineering and political science at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. I expanded my engineering skill set while also gaining knowledge in urban planning, construction management, and environmental policy. In my third year, I secured an internship at a construction company in Chicago. This experience sparked my interest in environmentally conscious construction and provided a clear vision for my future career path.

Upon graduating from university in 2018, I moved to Washington, DC to work as an engineer at a construction company. There, I was given the responsibility to manage tasks independently and learn on the job which allowed me to hone my problem-solving and project management skills, fueling a passion that kept me in the role for three years and provided valuable experience.

Despite my passion for the work, the lack of sustainable opportunities at the time led me to pursue a Masters of Environmental Policy and Regulation at the London School of Economics in 2021 to further equip myself with skills for future opportunities. Upon completing my Masters, I was on a mission to find a role where I could blend my engineering expertise with my newfound insights to make a real environmental impact.

I was immediately drawn in by Veolia’s environmental credentials and how they wanted to make a positive impact with the work they do. Veolia’s Energy Construction Projects team is a relatively new team and there are so many decarbonisation projects in the pipeline. I look forward to growing within the industry and sharing my journey with my fellow team members.

Has it been challenging to be a woman in engineering? 

Many women have made significant contributions to engineering and efforts are underway to promote gender diversity, inclusivity and support systems for women in these fields which is why I love initiatives such as IWED.

There are still lingering stereotypes and biases that portray engineering as a male-dominated field, which can discourage some women from considering or persisting in these careers. I think it is important to have role models and guidance and I really enjoy seeing young women come into the industry where I can teach and encourage them so I would recommend a mentor to anyone!

When did you join Veolia?

I joined Veolia in February 2023 and have not looked back since.

Why should women consider an engineering or construction career?

While the engineering and construction fields have historically been male-dominated, the world is moving forward and increasing diversity and inclusion in engineering and construction can lead to more innovative and effective solutions, benefiting society as a whole.

Engineering careers offer intellectually stimulating and challenging work opportunities.You have to apply problem-solving skills, creativity and analytical thinking to design and build innovative solutions that improve people’s lives and shape the world around us.

I particularly enjoy the opportunities for innovation and working with a hands-on leadership approach, seeing tangible results with an end goal to work towards. The skills learnt in engineering and construction roles are valuable and transferable in any professional setting, meaning you really are future proofing your capabilities and growing on the job.

What benefits do days such as International Women in Engineering Day have?

Days such as International Women in Engineering Day have an amazing impact on my industry and create awareness for the fantastic work we do, as well as highlighting the opportunities moving forward. The world of work is vastly different to what it was 20 years ago and IWED gives us a real platform to highlight the positive changes that have been made through the efforts of strong, influential women with a desire to succeed. IWED is incredibly important to tackle stereotypes, pioneer change and break down barriers, opening minds to a career in engineering.

Networking and mentorship opportunities are also created as these events often provide opportunities for women engineers to connect, network and share experiences. They can facilitate mentorship relationships, which can be valuable for career development and overcoming challenges faced by women in male-dominated fields. I encourage all women, just getting started or vastly experienced, to take a look at the roles available and get involved with open days, webinars and workshops to learn more about how engineering can be your next adventure.

Advice and top tips from Zoe:

• Take the time to explore the wide array of engineering disciplines and career paths available. Engage in courses, internships and hands-on experiences to gain insights into different specialties. Engineering offers a multitude of opportunities, so don’t hesitate to delve into various fields to find the one that resonates most with you.

• Often with engineering and construction, the learning extends beyond the classroom. Never hesitate to seek clarification or guidance by asking questions, even as you gain experience in your career.

• Find mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career. A mentor can provide valuable insights, help you set goals and offer perspective from their own experiences in the industry.

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ClientEarth lawyers say that the judgment “changes the game” for Scope 3 emissions – those that are created by use of a company’s products.

Currently, these ‘downstream’ emissions are not required to be considered in planning decisions across the UK.

But the judge who drafted the majority opinion, Lord Leggatt, said that it was clear that oil from the wells would be burned, making the resulting greenhouse emissions “straightforwardly results of the project” – and that they should be considered in planning approvals.

ClientEarth lawyer Sophie Marjanac said, “This ruling adopts a sensible approach to the law governing environmental impact assessment, and aligns the UK with international law and practice. This clear decision from the UK Supreme Court changes the game for planning decisions: it irons out expectations, making it clear that companies and authorities have to account for downstream emissions – those that don’t come directly out of on-site operations, but are a guaranteed result of oil extraction.”

Earlier this year, an international legal tribunal, ITLOS, confirmed in an Advisory Opinion that states everywhere should be considering cumulative and indirect impacts in Environmental Impact Assessment decisions for new industrial and construction projects – and applying a “stringent” standard to their decisions.

Today’s decision follows a similar decision of the Norwegian Courts in January, and is in line with EU law.

Marjanac said, “We are finally reaching a tipping point where countries and companies are going to have to comprehensively account for the impact of every fossil fuel project on the climate – and use that information to start to prevent it.

“This news has implications for ongoing UK challenges – including the proposed Cumbria coalmine, Rosebank oil and gas exploration, North Sea oil and gas licensing and others. Meanwhile, we are making similar arguments in other cases in the EU.

“The UK is notoriously not on track to meet its climate targets, and campaigners at all levels are hard at work to fight for a future that we can all live in. This judgment is a legal triumph and we congratulate everybody who worked towards it.”

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GridBeyond will be delivering BESS solutions to Keppel DC Dublin 1 and 2, which are located at City West and Ballycoolin, Ireland respectively. The two data centres are owned by Keppel DC REIT, a Singapore listed pure-play data centre REIT.

The BESS at the two data centres will provide additional flexible capacity to the power system. By adding this flexible capacity, the BESS will help integrate more renewable energy sources into the energy mix and support the grid in times of stress for the benefit of all consumers. This will also add 8MW of flexible capacity to the grid ahead of the winter peak demand period.

The project includes the installation and management of a 2 x 2MW/2.2MWh battery at the Citywest site and a 4MW/6.1MWh battery at the Ballycoolin site. GridBeyond will manage the flexibility of the sites by connecting the batteries to its AI-powered energy technology platform, GridBeyond Point. Power from the batteries will be discharged in response to instructions from the grid operator to provide green power during times of grid stress. Historically, during times of grid stress, generation facilities, often carbon-intensive, are brought online to balance the grid. By capturing excess renewable energy from renewable sources that would otherwise be wasted the BESS will be able to provide lower carbon flexibility to the system when required.

It is also estimated that the installation of the two batteries at the two data centres will deliver a reduction of 240,000kg of CO₂ per year, further advancing the two companies’ net zero agenda.

GridBeyond Regional Director for Ireland Denver Blemings said, “This project shows how data centres can play a bigger role in the energy transition. It’s great to see companies, like Keppel DC REIT, use demand response programmes to support the grid and use renewable energies in the delivery of their activities”.

Gary Watson, Country Manager (Ireland) of Keppel DC REIT, said, “Leveraging this partnership with GridBeyond, Keppel DC REIT’s is able to take another step towards our 2030 net zero targets. We will also explore other ways to increase the use of renewable energy, such as installing on-site solar, to bolster our efforts to decarbonise our operations.”

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EcoDataCenter, founded in 2014, is continuing to grow and expand its operations to support rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and high performance computing (HPC). EcoDataCenter operates multiple data centre facilities in four Swedish locations.

The two new data centres in Falun are planned to be commissioned at the beginning of 2025. The project includes an expected installation of 96 Vertiv Liebert PCW chilled water cooling units for a total capacity of around 12MW. These floor-mounted systems feature optimised coils and an aerodynamic design of the internal components, including patented elements, allowing a reduction of energy consumption. Moreover, the units are customised according to customer specifications, further enabling enhanced cooling efficiency and effective waste heat reuse.

“We selected Vertiv’s cooling systems due to their energy-efficient, reliable solutions, exceptional expertise and service. Vertiv is quick to translate technological advances into products, and its innovations integrate seamlessly with our deployments” says Mikael Svanfeldt, CTO at EcoDataCenter.

“This framework agreement with EcoDataCenter is a feather in the cap for Vertiv in the Swedish market. EcoDataCenter and Vertiv have a history of working together to apply innovative, efficient, and reliable solutions to support EcoDataCenter’s sustainability goals. This knowledge sharing helps both companies to anticipate future needs,” says Victor Elm, strategic segment and partners director, colocation and hyperscale for Northern Europe at Vertiv.

The companies plan to continue their technology partnership to support AI and HPC applications.

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Earlier this year, North Tyneside-based Business Energy Claims (BEC) hit the headlines after helping recover more than £14,000 for a small amusement arcade business after energy provider Engie was found liable for failing to disclose the commission a broker was making from the contract.

The groundbreaking ruling against Engie opened the floodgates for further claims from businesses which have found themselves in a similar position – but this appears to be just the tip of the iceberg.

The mis-selling of energy contracts scandal appears to be far more than just a problem with unscrupulous brokers. Instead, it’s a multi-faceted issue, according to Callum Thompson, the managing director at BEC and Energy Solicitors (ESL).

ESL is a dedicated law firm which works in partnership with sister organisation Business Energy Claims (BEC) to support businesses affected by mis-sold energy contracts.

As the only company with specialist business energy consultancy knowledge, ESL’s  experienced team has an unrivalled level of expertise and specialises specifically in energy-related disputes.

Thompson is concerned that many people still won’t know they could have a claim, and he and his colleagues are on a mission to ensure businesses that have experienced any kind of unscrupulous behaviour from intermediaries or commercial energy suppliers get the opportunity to redress the situation.

“The business energy landscape can be quite complex, or certainly it is often made that way for the customer so they struggle to understand exactly what they are paying for,” Thompson said. “This can lead to things such as mis-selling and overcharging for instance.

“This whole thing is a huge minefield and every day we are hearing from people who’ve been heavily impacted and more often than not don’t realise it’s happened.

“Business owners may not have the time or knowledge to fully understand the energy industry and many could face issues that might impact their business, whether that be undisclosed commission, being pursued by brokers for lost commission, energy overcharging and the threat of data breaches.”

So what pitfalls should small businesses owners be looking for?

Recently the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) announced how businesses will soon have access to free support to resolve issues with energy contracts as part of government and Ofgem changes to tackle hidden fees, issues and mis-sold services.

Thompson, however, points out this is by no means a panacea. “While I think everyone welcomed this move, there is still a massive group of businesses who won’t fit the bill to benefit from this,” he said.

“There are a number of people who won’t be able to use this service (based on historic cases) which means there’s a gap there which isn’t being addressed – that’s where we can step in.”

Another big issue centres around protection of sensitive data. Following a rise in the number of energy suppliers and brokers going bust in recent years, there has been an increase in data breaches.

“When this happened, we saw a lot of people being automatically switched to different suppliers which has, in some circumstances, led to some data breaches, ” said Thompson.

“We’re certainly seeing more calls for us to step in to help defend these data breach claims at the moment and it’s something that is potentially very frightening for people.

“Nobody wants to imagine their data has fallen into the wrong hands and it can lead to all kinds of problems so it’s something we find a lot of people are, quite rightfully, very concerned about.”

The BEC team has also noted a lot more enquiries about revenue recovery over the last 12 months.

This is a process of energy firms pursuing businesses for alleged lost revenue, representing the sum of commission they say that they would have earned for contracts that were due to go live, but subsequently didn’t.

It’s something which has risen in prominence particularly over the last 12 months, as Thompson explained: “Sometimes energy contracts won’t go as initially planned or often someone doesn’t take up a contract which a broker has recommended and that can result in a broker calling in a debt resolution service to recover the money they think they’re owed.

“There are many other reasons why these kinds of disputes can arise but they can have a detrimental impact on the person or business involved. A key area of concern for us is that we have a growing number of businesses being pursued by brokers for lost commissions.”

Additionally, high pressure sales tactics continue to come under fire, as many businesses continue to fall victim.

“Customers feeling like they’ve pushed into an agreement is a recurring theme. Typically, smaller businesses will have someone looking after their energy but often, due to the pressure on them to secure the best deal, they can be pushed down a certain route when they don’t have all the correct information to hand.

“We see so many examples of people being pressured into a contract that may not be the best one for them.

“There are many other areas where we have been able to help clients, things like threats of disconnection and other areas including mis-selling or misrepresentation.

“There are many pitfalls and issues that can affect small businesses, so it’s vital to know your rights and what you could be entitled to if you have, or believe you may have, been mis-sold or misrepresented in your energy contract.

“We have helped hundreds of businesses across the country win compensation. We offer a no win no fee structure because we understand the challenging environment many smaller and medium businesses find themselves in. Energy and other bills are high enough for businesses already struggling, without the added challenge of being overcharged or mis-sold.

“It’s really simple to access our support on https://businessenergyclaims.co.uk/ or https://energysolicitors.co.uk/ .

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To delve into the current state and future prospects of this dynamic market, in this article GridBeyond’s Head of Origination, Neil Garland sheds light on the remarkable growth and evolution of corporate PPAs, the driving forces behind their adoption, and the emerging trends shaping the future of renewable energy agreements. He discusses the intricacies of the regulatory environment, the various models in use, and the innovative technologies that are revolutionising the sector.

Q: Can you provide an overview of the current state of corporate PPAs in Great Britain and Ireland? How have these markets evolved in recent years?

A: The PPA market in UK and Ireland is going from strength to strength. Not only has the number of deals significantly increased, but there has also been a shift in terms of who is doing them. In 2023, c~80% of all deals done (at the larger end) were by corporates with utility suppliers well in the minority. But as the market continues to mature, terms and conditions are becoming more standardised (although no truly standard CPPA exists as of yet), which means that the time taken to negotiate such contracts is gradually reducing.

Q: What is the future outlook for corporate PPAs in GB and Ireland? Are there any emerging trends or technologies that could significantly impact this market?

A: If the contracting process continues to simplify, I predict that we’ll not only see the number of CPPAs being secured increase exponentially, we’ll also see the contracted volume (i.e. in MWh) in CPPAs reduce. If the barriers to entry ease, this should make getting a CPPA more viable to smaller generators and corporate buyers.

As the cost of battery energy storage systems (BESS) continues to fall, we’re seeing an increasing number of collocated projects and hybrid CPPA’s (e.g. solar PV and BESS). Not only can BESS open doors to an wider range of revenue sources (e.g. Capacity Market, Firm Frequency Response and Balancing Reserve), but it can also be used to provide a more tailored export profile to a corporate buyer, by storing excess generation and discharging it when needed.

Q: What are the primary drivers behind the increasing adoption of corporate PPAs in GB and Ireland? Are there specific industry sectors leading this trend?

A: More and more businesses are coming to understand the inherent value of CPPAs. Whilst the majority will be using them as a tool attempt to deliver their net zero strategies, a significant number see value in being able to fix a proportion of their energy volume.

Energy costs can be highly volatile, influenced by fluctuating fossil fuel prices and geopolitical uncertainties. By entering into CPPAs, companies can lock in a portion of their energy costs at a fixed rate for the medium to long term, providing financial predictability and shielding themselves from market volatility. This stability is particularly appealing to large energy consumers who seek to manage their operational costs more effectively.

Additionally, corporate reputation and brand image are influential factors. Consumers and clients are increasingly favouring businesses that demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship. Companies that lead in renewable energy adoption can enhance their brand value and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

In terms of industry sectors driving this trend, technology companies, financial services, and retailers are at the forefront. Technology firms, such as data centres and cloud service providers, are major energy consumers with a vested interest in sustainable practices to offset their significant carbon footprints. Financial services companies are also prominent, often driven by investor expectations and corporate social responsibility mandates. Retailers, meanwhile, are motivated by both customer expectations and the substantial energy demands of their operations, including logistics and large physical store networks.

Q: What are the most common types of PPAs being utilised in GB and Ireland (e.g., physical vs. virtual PPAs)? What factors influence the choice between these options?

A: The virtual/financial CPPA model is most prevalent in Ireland, whilst there is a more even split between virtual and physical sleeved CPPAs in GB.

In my opinion, the key factor businesses need to consider when deciding which model best suits them, is they are happy to commit to the additional reporting obligations that financial derivative contracts require.

Q: Can you discuss the typical pricing structures and contract terms seen in corporate PPAs in GB and Ireland? How do these compare to other regions?

A: Pricing structures and terms in GB and Ireland are broadly similar to other deregulated markets across the globe (including US and EU states). These structures and terms are broadly designed to balance the financial and operational needs of both energy producers and corporate buyers, while also promoting the adoption of renewable energy.

Typically new-build assets will require a long-term contract (i.e. 10 year plus) with a guaranteed price for generation and any associated benefits. Existing assets may be more open to shorter-term contracts and/or variable prices on account of having already made their return on investment.

Q: How do companies manage the risks associated with long-term PPAs, such as price volatility and counterparty risk? Are there specific strategies or tools commonly used?

A: Having two parties willing to agree a fixed price for the full term of the CPPA. This fixed pricing mechanism provides insulation against market fluctuations, ensuring that the costs remain predictable for the volume supplied under the agreement.

There are several tools commonly employed for the purposes of managing counter-party risk, these include conducting thorough credit checks, provision of an Investment-grade Letter of Credit (LOC), Parent Company Guarantee (PCG), holding collateral in a bank account or securing credit insurance or a surety bond. By employing these strategies and tools, companies can effectively manage the risks associated with long-term PPAs, ensuring financial stability and minimising exposure to potential market and counterparty uncertainties.

Q: Which renewable energy sources (e.g. wind, solar) are most commonly featured in corporate PPAs in GB and Ireland? What drives the preference for certain types of renewable energy?

A: CPPAs allow businesses to lower their overall emissions by arranging long-term supply agreements directly from renewable or low-carbon energy sources and increases the proportion of renewable power in an organisation’s energy mix. This supports corporate social responsibility and sustainability goals, reduces the need to purchase carbon permits and can also result in a commercial and reputational advantage.

The most common type of renewable energy featured in CPPAs secured in UK and Ireland is solar, followed closely by onshore wind. There is a strong preference for some buyers to secure electricity from what they consider to be “true green” sources. This is over other forms of certifiably renewable power such as anaerobic digestion, biomass and energy-from-waste.

Q: What are the main challenges and barriers that companies face when negotiating and implementing PPAs in GB and Ireland? How can these be overcome?

A: Credit, term and price.

When it comes to credit, not all buyers are able to satisfy the “investment grade” credit rating requirement (usually least “BBB+” or higher from S&P/Fitch or Baa1 or above from Moody’s.). Whilst there may be some flexibility offered by renewable electricity developers, an alternative solution for buyers is to contract with smaller and/or existing assets where the credit requirements may be less stringent.

Some companies are not comfortable with contracting for a 5/10/15 year term, although this is often a requirement when attempting to source from new build (‘additional’) assets. A solution for buyers is to contract with smaller and/or existing assets where a shorter-term deal may be possible.

Agreeing a satisfactory price for both parties can make or break a negotiation. If the developer of a new build asset doesn’t secure the minimum price he/she needs to meet their investment requirement, the project may not go ahead. Whilst the project should be priced on it’s own merits (technology, scale, additionality, profile and term), it still needs to be competitive versus the wholesale electricity market in order to attract buyers. CPPAs are often inflation-linked (e.g. CPI), meaningly that the developer can recover additional value throughout the term of the contract, even if they have to accept a lower power price initially.

Neil has worked in the energy industry for 16 years, including holding senior energy procurement positions at Hovis, JLR and Aggregate Industries, and as a retailer/consultant with time at e.on, ENER-G, Mitie, and most recently as Origination Manager at Good Energy.

At GridBeyond, Neil provides a link between renewables generators and energy buyers, supporting our clients in navigating the PPA market, identifying the most appropriate counterparties and ensuring that they receive the best revenues and savings from their agreements.

Q: How does the regulatory landscape in GB and Ireland impact the structuring and execution of corporate PPAs? Are there significant differences between the two regions?

A: Whilst the UK and Irish electricity markets have a lot of common due to their shared history, there are some still challenges that exist, particularly concerning Northern Ireland. Renewable generation plants in NI are eligible, like the rest of the UK, to receive Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs) for the power that they produce. Unlike plants in England, Scotland and Wales though, they are not connected to the National Grid and instead they are connected to Ireland’s Single Electricity Market (I-SEM). Ultimately, this makes the process of contracting (and sharing the benefits) between generators in NI and buyers in the rest of the UK or ROI more complicated.

You can download GridBeyond’s White Paper entitled Introduction to Corporate Power Purchase Agreements here. 

The post Exploring the CPPA landscape with Neil Garland: Insights and Outlook appeared first on theenergyst.com.

As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, it’s even more vital that sufficient charging options are available at home, in workplaces, and on the road. All in a bid to ease the transition to EVs and encourage more drivers to make the switch writes Naomi Nye, Head of Sales at Drax Electric Vehicles

Amidst the excitement surrounding new charging innovations, the question remains: are options like wireless charging viable in the UK’s future?

My view leans towards cautious optimism. Exploring and delving into the potential of EV charging is an exciting journey, with various models promising to transform how we power our vehicles. While challenges such as efficiency, standardisation, and infrastructure installation remain, recent developments suggest that the future of EV charging is revolutionary, but it’s not a quick turnaround.

How far are we in the EV charging journey?

We now have over 55,000 charging points across 31,445 locations in the UK, another significant increase of 46% year-on-year. But for the nation to sustain the phase-out of internal combustion engines by 2035, we need nearly 200,000 more charging points at the very least—a staggering 363% increase from where we are now.

That’s not to say we can’t get there. Businesses, industries, and manufacturers are tirelessly working to develop and roll out new charging points nationwide. Both public and privately-owned charge points are being installed every day. However, the most exciting developments will be the improvements in charging technology.

Urban charging for the masses

Central London, Manchester, and Birmingham are all urban hubs for businesspeople, drivers, tourists, and households alike. Take London as an example: roughly 70% of people do not have their own parking space –an unsurprising figure. However, the development of urban charging has been a great one to watch.

Paving the way for convenient on-street charging in built-up public areas has been a priority for many EV charging providers, and there’s been a significant rise since the first lamppost charger installation years ago. Last year, data showed that at least 60% of on-street chargers were lamppost devices. By integrating charging capabilities into existing infrastructure, cities can enhance the accessibility of electric mobility.

Wireless charging is everywhere: could EVs be next?

The future of EV charging will need to be fast and convenient. Wireless charging for electric vehicles is a promising advancement in this space, offering a multitude of benefits, but it has its challenges. Wireless charging will simplify the charging process by eliminating the need for physical connectors, providing EV owners with a seamless and convenient experience. This technology enables integration into a range of environments, like home garages, public parking lots, and even dynamic charging lanes on roads. Wireless charging can also reduce wear and tear on traditional plug-in connectors, improving long-term reliability and reducing maintenance costs.

Researchers have been working on this technology for a while, and significant developments have been made. For example, Oak Ridge National Laboratory has recently set a new power record for wireless charging, recharging an EV to 100 kW with 96% efficiency.

However, challenges lie ahead in this journey. There’s still lower charging efficiency compared to wired charging, higher upfront installation costs and standardisation issues that must be addressed. Optimising charging speeds and compatibility with different vehicle models also remain areas for ongoing research and development. Despite these barriers, continued progression in wireless charging technology holds promise for enhancing the accessibility of charging infrastructure in the future.

Giving back to the energy ecosystem

We’re in a transformative era where electric vehicles are now integrating into our energy network. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) charging, the two-way flow of energy from the grid to vehicles and vice versa, is a prime example of this integration.

Alongside broader electrification, we know that EVs will create extra demand for power. This rise in demand is likely to affect the price of electricity, but price volatility creates an opportunity for businesses to profit through optimising bi-directional V2G charging. Most cars, including fleets, tend to be unused for over twelve hours a day. V2G technology means that fleets can charge when energy prices are low, either overnight or when there’s a surplus of renewable energy available on the network.

In one of National Grid’s Future Energy Scenarios, V2G charging could provide up to 38GW of flexible power from 5.5 million EVs. That extra electricity would cover all the extra peak power the UK needs in the highest-demand scenario for 2050. However, while bidirectional charge points are currently available, they’re not yet viable at a sufficient scale or an appropriate price. In the near future, V2G technology will become more affordable, and organisations with EV fleets will be in a key position to benefit.

We’re helping organisations across the UK transition from internal combustion engine vehicles to EVs and develop a reliable, future-proofed electrification strategy. By trialling technologies like V2G, we’re beginning to understand how they can work in tandem and the future of commercial energy. Everything we learn will help us support businesses – now and in the future.

The future of EV charging is budding with innovation and promise. Urban charging, smart grid integration, and wireless options are key pillars in shaping sustainable and efficient infrastructure for future generations. By embracing these technologies and addressing the associated challenges, we can accelerate the transition towards a greener, electric future.

It’s time to charge ahead into a new era of mobility, and we’re looking forward to it.

The post The road ahead for EV charging and the feasibility of new innovations appeared first on theenergyst.com.

The new partnership will allow Stagecoach to participate in the Capacity Market from October 2024, while looking at several other opportunities to support the grid and its energy transition goals.

The Capacity Market aims to ensure there is reliable electricity supply to meet peaks in demand, safeguarding against the possibility of blackouts if renewables sources such as those dependent on weather, are not generating enough. By participating in the Capacity Market, Stagecoach will support the grid when there is a high risk that a system stress event could occur whilst reducing the total cost of ownership from its fleet transition to EV through revenues earned by participation.

EV fleets are expanding at a fast pace in several of the world’s largest markets. This is being driven by governments and operators who are promoting electric vehicles as a key technology to curb oil use, fight climate change and air pollution.

As bus companies increase their EV operational fleets there are new opportunities to use this load not only as consumers but also as contributors to the power grid and its decarbonisation through the integration of renewables.

GridBeyond Head of EV Solutions Michael Kent said, “There are many opportunities for EV fleet operators to support the grid and become a key player in supporting the energy transition. We look forward to working together with Stagecoach and to start the Capacity Market programme. The long term contract it is a recognition of GridBeyond expertise and capabilities.”

Stagecoach Asset Management & Infrastructure Director Tony Cockcroft said, “We are pleased to be partnering with GridBeyond as we press ahead with our ambitious fleet decarbonisation plan. Using GridBeyond’s expertise in energy markets will enable us to get the most value out of our significant investment into our electric fleet.”

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‘Energy on an Industrial Scale’, commissioned by Mitsubishi Electric, surveyed 200 senior decision-makers working in UK manufacturing about how the sector can increase its overall resilience. It found that 91% of respondents expressed concern over energy price security and 85% were worried about grid resilience.

Despite this, only 24% of those questioned had a fully implemented on-site energy management system and just 27% employed a dedicated energy manager. According to David Bean, Business Development Group Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Automation Systems UK, the disparity in these statistics demonstrates a clear disconnect between thought and action to resolve an acute, ongoing and potentially worsening problem.

“These statistics are not only eye-opening at face value, they need to be considered within the context of how energy pricing has changed in the past few years,” says David. “The sector is just coming out of one of the worst energy crises in modern memory, and the impact of this price volatility is yet to be fully felt.

“Despite the clear concerns about the effect of energy price security and grid resilience identified in this report, the industry has not yet taken crucial steps to mitigate further fluctuations. With costs now resembling something approaching ‘normal’, it is an ideal time for decision-makers to reconsider these energy strategies and address potential uncertainty.”

The report paints a similar picture of decarbonisation pressures. Whilst 85% of those surveyed said working towards net zero was a key part of their business and 70% stated they had been asked to report on scope 1/2/3 emissions for a tender process, only 35% were currently implementing net zero within their operations.

David is advocating manufacturers to understand their goal and take small but necessary steps with a tangible ROI in order to achieve an energy strategy based on digitalisation to improve decarbonisation, energy resilience and carbon footprint.

“This report provides a much-needed snapshot of the manufacturing sector’s most pressing challenges, and underlines why decision-makers can no longer delay action,” he concludes. “However, the pressures and instability affecting the industry may have made businesses reluctant to do so.

“But by starting small and implementing new tools and technologies including energy management systems, site teams, senior managers can access meaningful data needed to make these necessary decisions. It doesn’t matter where you are on your energy journey, we can help businesses develop a roadmap to a greener and more resilient future.”

To download Energy on an Industrial Scale, please visit https://gb.mitsubishielectric.com/fa/lp/energy-on-an-industrial-scale.

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by Adam Hall Director of Energy Services at Drax Electric Vehicles

At the start of 2024, the UK reached an exciting milestone in its transition to net zero: the registration of its millionth Electric Vehicle (EV).

Since records began in 2002, a total of 1,001,677 EVs have been registered in the UK. Driving much of this growth are fleet managers, who are among the earliest adopters of the technology. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, fleet and company cars accounted for more than three quarters (77%) of new vehicle registrations last year. A study by Drax Electric Vehicles also found that almost half (48%) of businesses have already installed EV charging infrastructure – a further third (33%) plan to do so within the next 12 months.

Despite the surge in demand, there’s still a long way to go before electric becomes the dominant powertrain. In January 2024, petrol accounted for 57.3% of new vehicle registrations. Meanwhile, battery electric vehicles (BEV’s) market share stood at 14.7% – an increase of 1.6 percentage points on January 2023.

Loosening petrol’s stronghold on UK road transport will be no easy feat, particularly at a time when many businesses are scaling back on high-investment sustainability projects. The next cohort of fleet managers are inherently more risk-averse than the early adopters and require additional support and assurance throughout the electrification process.

So, what will it take to encourage more fleets to go electric? After speaking with hundreds of fleet decision makers, what’s clear is that many of them would benefit from greater transparency among the fleet community.

Currently, word of mouth is the main channel for information-sharing, with early adopters often acting as ‘influencers’. However, many of these conversations take place in silos and aren’t widely accessible. One fleet manager told us that he plans to wait another two to three years before switching to EVs for fear of making any mistakes.

To combat this, we must create more shared spaces where fleet managers can connect directly and learn from each other’s experiences.

One way to do this is by developing peer-to-peer knowledge hubs where fleet managers can speak openly to early adopters and other EV experts. These open forums allow fleet managers to gather information to help empower their decision-making, as well as troubleshoot any potential issues.

As is always the case when it comes to change, education is key. The internet is saturated with information which can be overwhelming for fleet managers. Likewise, EV experts and policy makers find it difficult to cut through with important messages, including the availability of government grants for EV chargers.

In a recent study, over a quarter (26%) of fleet decision-makers cited a lack of government support as a main barrier to electrification. However, the same study also revealed that one in three respondents were unaware of government EV grants and financial incentives, which may have contributed to the perceived lack of support.

We need to ensure fleet managers are aware of the financial incentives and practical support available to them. Not only will this help them make a stronger business case to the Board, but it’ll also remove a lot of unnecessary anxiety around the wider electrification process.

EV service providers also have an important role in providing clear, consultative advice. One of the concerns we hear time and time again from fleet managers is that by installing EV chargers, they’ll be faced with huge disruption to their operations. That should never be the case.

We spend a lot of time with our customers doing upfront suitability assessments and ongoing consultations that mitigate the risks involved with electrification and keep things moving as they should. That way, everything is planned for, and they can outsource much of the thinking to us.

For example, businesses often believe they need to install the fastest chargers for their fleet vehicles when, in many cases, slow chargers are perfectly suitable (and more cost-effective). We work with customers to help them understand their operational needs and propose the most efficient ways to charge their vehicles – minimising disruption and reducing costs in the process.

Moving to electric will take time for businesses and drivers to get used to. But as an EV driver myself, I can honestly say that once you’ve made the switch, you never look back. As the gatekeepers of this knowledge, we must share our experiences and challenge any untruths. The EV community is a close-knit one, and it’s through this inclusivity that we can help others overcome their fears and join the transition.

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