NEWS

21 February, 2020 – Shell has plans for a 100-megawatt grid storage battery, which will be the biggest battery in Europe once completed. The battery will store enough energy to power 100,000 homes for a day and will be vital for balancing the UK’s electricity demand and supply as wind and solar become an even larger part of our energy mix. On a smaller scale, buildings with onsite solar can benefit from storing their generated energy and using it at peak times. Want to look into installing a battery? Contact us at OnGen to get started today.

20 February, 2020 – Wandsworth Council in London will transition to 100% zero carbon energy through solar panels and renewable energy procurement. Wandsworth Council is projected to be carbon neutral by 2030 due to the effectiveness of their renewable energy measures. Wandsworth acts as a great model for what can be achieved, setting an example for other councils in London and beyond. At OnGen, we can help with the first stage feasibility assessment to help realise your carbon and cost savings potential. Contact us to find out more.

18 February, 2020 – Hackbridge Primary in Sutton has become England’s first zero-carbon school through its installation of solar panels, heat pumps and highly energy efficient design. However, only a handful of the new schools being built are installing renewable energy, as the Department for Education’s recommended designs have no mention of onsite generation. Hackbridge’s new building was instead subsidised by Sutton council as part of their environmental strategy. We cannot afford to ignore the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy, especially on new buildings. Set an example, like Hackbridge Primary, by installing onsite renewable generation; OnGen is here to help you on your journey.

18 February, 2020 – Greencoat Capital has launched a new private markets fund, Greencoat Renewable Income, that has already secured £277 million of commitments from Brunel and SAUL, UK pension investors. Investments will largely focus on solar, wind, bioenergy and renewable heat that deliver predictable cashflows. The fund has already allocated £120 million to a share of the Templeborough biomass power plant and two large low carbon greenhouses.

17 February, 2020 – All ScottishPower domestic fixed price tariffs will be supplied by 100% green electricity, generated by their own wind farms. Money made from these tariffs will be reinvested into new renewable generation to meet future demands. ScottishPower aims to prevent users from being ‘greenwashed’ through increased confidence that their electricity comes from renewable sources, as it is not uncommon that suppliers will claim their electricity is renewable when, in fact, it is not.

17 February, 2020 – The UK is decarbonising at a faster rate than anywhere else in the world, attributed to a move towards renewable energy and a 13% reduction in power demand in the last decade. However, as heat and transport sectors are electrified, this demand decrease may be reversed. We therefore need to continue deployment of renewables – why not help with installing onsite renewable generation? Contact us at OnGen to find out more.

14 February, 2020 – More than 11% of the NHS’s estate will be switched to 100% renewable energy this spring. Along with this, there will be a move to low-carbon heating and use of LED lighting. These changes will reduce emissions by more than 40,000 tonnes. We look forward to see the continued success of the NHS as it decarbonises and hope to provide help with not only renewables, but energy security through onsite generation. Please contact us at OnGen for more information.

13 February, 2020 – According to WWF, the Global Trade Analysis Project and the Natural Capital Project, climate change could cost the global economy £7.6 trillion by 2050 if environmental damage is not reversed. Poorer countries would bear the brunt of the costs and the agricultural sector would be hit the hardest by lost natural benefits. Now more than ever it is vital that we focus all our efforts on combating climate change.

13 February, 2020 – Ofgem is set to review the UK’s electrical system operation model in the spring to see if it needs to be changed to facilitate renewables growth. Ofgem states they want to help deliver net zero at the lowest cost to consumers and grid operation plays a large part. As renewables become a larger part of the energy mix, it is vital that the grid can cope without hindering the energy producer or consumer.

13 February, 2020 – Prime Minister Boris Johnson has fired BEIS and Defra secretaries, as well as the COP26 president in first major cabinet reshuffle, all of which were important female leaders in climate-related positions. To meet net zero targets, we need government leaders to help pave the way, which does not seem likely with this new cabinet. We hope to be wrong, but either way, we must remember that renewables can be feasible with or without government support. Contact us for more details.

6 February, 2020 – Carbon capture and hydrogen cannot be relied on to meet the UK’s climate targets, as neither are predicted to be running at scale by 2050. Relying on breakthrough technologies is risky and delays action and instead, it is suggested to focus on achievable alternatives such as renewable energy and behaviour change (e.g. diet, travel). Want to make a difference and start your renewable journey now? Contact us at OnGen for more information.

5 February, 2020 – Renewable energy could be hit harder than other industries as the UK leaves the EU, due to the reliance on materials and expertise from Europe. Although the UK is a world leader in renewable energy, onshore wind installations fell by nearly 80% in 2018 and in 2019, there was a 94% reduction in domestic solar installations. With 11 months to reach an agreement, it is vital that we continue to work together across Europe and the UK to meet net zero targets.

3 February, 2020 – Ofgem has launched a new Decarbonisation Action Plan to ensure energy networks are ready to deliver net zero through decarbonised heat and transport, as well as low carbon innovation. Commitments outlined in the plan include a new regulatory fund for innovative climate solutions, as well as a pledge to coordinate the rapid expansion of an offshore energy grid. This forward-thinking plan begs the question of why such little importance is placed on onsite renewables, notably through the dismantling of the Feed-in-Tariff and the lacklustre implementation of the Smart Export Guarantee.

28 January, 2020 – The Association for Consultancy and Engineering and the Environmental Industries Commission have formed the Net Zero Taskforce, which aims to launch 2 reports during COP26 in Glasgow later this year. One will identify how organisations can help meet net zero targets, while the other will support SMEs needing to adjust to the new working environment.

27 January, 2020 – The UK has a target of net zero emissions by 2050, with an aim to meet this through the use of alternative fuels or carbon capture technology. But why has this only become a target as of 2019? Starting with the Kyoto Protocol in the 1990s, this article gives a complete run through the environmental legislation that led to where we are today.

27 January, 2020 – The English health and care system is currently responsible for 4-5% of the country’s total carbon footprint, contributing to climate change and harmful air pollution. The NHS has therefore announced it is to step up action to tackle climate change and in doing so, reduce rates of asthma, heart attacks and strokes. The NHS has stated they aim to source more energy from renewable generators, but why not become energy producers? The NHS would benefit from the resilience and cost-effectiveness of onsite generation and storage.

23 January, 2020 – Counter to the Committee on Climate Change, Duncan Brack, energy specialist at Chatham House, says that cutting down forests for renewable energy is counterproductive. Biomass provides the second most successful source of renewable energy after wind, providing 12% of the UK’s electricity in 2019. Brack states that most models do not consider that older trees absorb carbon faster and therefore simply replacing trees cut does not create a carbon neutral system. It is instead suggested that grassland crops and short rotation coppice are used instead of wood, presenting a much greener alternative.

22 January, 2020 – Energy wasted by London offices could power more than 65,000 homes. Thinktank Green Alliance says corporate energy waste can be seen across the country, with thousands of office buildings wasting enough power to supply more than 100,000 homes, costing businesses £60 million in unnecessary bills. How can businesses avoid this? Onsite generation and storage that is effectively sized to meet the building’s demand. Please contact us at OnGen for information on how to get started.

20 January, 2020 – Octopus Energy has confirmed a deal to purchase the domestic supply arm of ENGIE UK, adding 70,000 domestic UK customers to their 1.4 million customer base. ENGIE UK state this move is in line with its strategy to focus on the net zero transition for businesses and local authorities, whereas Octopus looks forward to bringing their new customers renowned service, pricing and technology.

18 January, 2020 – With COP26 happening this December in Glasgow, is Scotland really leading the way on tackling climate change? Greenhouse gas emissions are half of what they were 30 years ago, however the hardest changes lie ahead. With a target of net zero by 2045, it is vital that Scotland shows the world the progress we are capable of. Want to make a difference? Why not consider onsite renewables for your home or business. Contact OnGen to start your renewable journey today.

15 January, 2020 – Ovo Energy confirmed its purchase of SSE’s household energy and services arm for £500 million. All 8,000 SSE staff will transfer to OVO, totalling to 10,000 employees overall. OVO aims for this acquisition to allow millions more people to access zero carbon living. Becoming an OVO customer? Why not benefit from their Smart Export Guarantee through installing onsite renewables. Contact us at OnGen to find out how you can kickstart your renewable energy journey today.

14 January, 2020 – The National Trust has planned to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030 through planting 20 million new trees, capturing 300,000 tonnes of carbon or the equivalent of 370,000 homes’ annual electricity output. The Trust also will invest in renewable energy and help people connect to the natural environment through a year-long campaign. Pledges like these are vital to mitigate the impacts of the climate emergency; we look forward to other organisations following suit.

8 January, 2020 – Energy consumption is projected to increase by 50% worldwide between 2018 and 2050, led by growth in Asia and other regions where strong economic growth is driving demand. Demand increases will need to be met by supply, with a 79% increase in electricity generation needed. To tackle the climate emergency, renewables must be at the forefront of this increase. Take the first steps towards securing our future and start your renewable journey now through OnGen’s onsite renewable feasibility assessment software to find out what’s right for you.

7 January, 2020 – A community-owned solar farm is now giving access to 100% renewable energy for 300 residents and business in the Swansea area. The Gower Power Solar Storage scheme enables households and businesses to know where their energy is coming from and keeps profits in the local area when they choose the bespoke tariff developed by Gower Power and Bristol Energy. Funding from the Welsh Government has secured the addition of a Tesla battery, which will allow the farm to store and distribute green electricity. At OnGen, we can help communities take their first steps towards renewable generation and storage – contact us to start your renewable journey.

6 January, 2020 – 11 office properties across Manchester and Liverpool have been declared as net-zero. Net-zero standards were met through building to BREEAM requirements, investing in energy efficiency and offsetting any remaining emissions through tree planting. Alongside this, Neath Port Talbot council has granted planning permission for a net-zero housing development equipped with onsite solar, battery storage and ground source heat pumps. Interested in net-zero? Contact OnGen to find out how you can kick-start your renewable journey today.

5 January, 2020 – By 2024, new rules in Scotland will ensure all new homes will use renewable or low-carbon heating. This project will run alongside a £30 million investment in renewable heat plans. For each home, it is important that the correct renewable system is chosen and sized to meet the home’s forecast demand, which is where OnGen comes in. Our onsite feasibility assessment software can help inform which system and size unlock the highest carbon and monetary savings. Please contact us for more information.

2 January, 2020 – The UK Government’s Smart Export Guarantee came into effect on 1 January 2020, making energy suppliers with over 150,000 domestic customers required to release an export tariff above 0 p/kWh. Social Energy topped the list, with a tariff of 5.6 p/kWh, while Shell Energy came firmly at the bottom, only offering 0.001 p/kWh. Newer suppliers are leading the way – it is up to the Big Six and other large suppliers to follow in suit.

31 December, 2019 – From Ofgem’s price cap to growth in renewables and the introduction of smart meters, this decade has seen large progressions in the energy market. Highlights include coal production has decreasing over 40%, 15 energy suppliers going bust and the Big Six losing their hold on the market. This article provides a complete rundown on where the market has come from and where it is headed next.

19 December, 2019 – Gridserve has completed a 34.7 MW solar farm combined with a 20 MWh battery storage system for Warrington Borough Council. The electricity will be sold on the open market, bringing millions of pounds into delivering vital council services. In addition, the council is also buying a 25.7 MW solar farm to supply the area directly, which will make it England’s first local authority to produce all its own electricity. This truly sets the bar for other local authorities, as we strive to tackle the climate emergency. At OnGen, we can help local authorities take their first steps towards renewable generation – contact us to start your renewable journey now.

19 December, 2019 – UK Government figures show that from July to September this year, renewables outperformed gas for the first quarter ever, generating 38.9% and 38.8% of the UK’s energy mix respectively. Generation increases were seen across all categories of renewables, with wind and solar up by 22% and hydro up by 58%. This historic tipping point is great news for the net zero emissions targets, but will need to be sped up to effectively transition to clean power.

17 December, 2019 – Falling temperatures could see each household spending an average of £448 more this winter compared to the spring-summer period. 11% of people admit to being confused about how to heat their homes efficiently, so we need to shift to using our heating in a way that keeps us warm, while saving money and energy. A good way to achieve savings is by using onsite renewable heat, such as ground source heat or a combined heat and power system. Want to learn more? Contact OnGen to see which renewables are feasible for your site.

16 December, 2019 – According to Business Electricity Prices, clean power only accounted for 11% of the UK’s final consumption, as opposed to the majority of Southern African nations, which are generating close to 100% renewable energy. Not only is the UK missing from the top 10 world ranking, but it only makes it to 59th position in terms of renewable generation. If we want to meet net zero targets, serious developments will need to be made. Luckily, OnGen are here to help businesses start their renewable energy journeys, so get in touch now!

13 December, 2019 – After delivering a Conservative Party majority, Prime Minister Boris Johnson holds the future of UK environmental legislation in his hands. This article provides an insightful outline of what should be at the top of Johnson’s green ‘to do’ list; from new environmental standards to fracking, Boris Johnson better get cracking.

12 December, 2019 – The Women in Wind Global Leadership Programme published a guide for ‘Best Practices for Gender Diversity at Industry Events,’ helping events address unconscious bias and unequal representation to promote greater gender diversity in the wind sector. To stay on-track for the Paris targets and UK’s own net zero targets, we need a larger renewables talent pool, which requires more female role models and positive gender norms in clean energy; increased diversity will raise our chances of meeting our climate targets.

10 December, 2019 – Drax pledged to be the world’s first carbon negative energy firm by 2030. Drax’s power plant, which already uses renewable fuel,  will burn wood pellets and use carbon capture technology to store the carbon emissions produced. Negative emissions technologies are an important aspect in meeting the UK’s net zero targets; we are excited to see Drax’s progress in meeting their targets.

9 December, 2019 – On the 8th of December, windfarms generated nearly 45% of the UK’s electricity, causing thousands of households with smart meter tariffs to be paid to use extra renewable electricity. Customers were told to set timers to take advantage of payments made during overnight use, with people earning between 1 to 5p per kWh used, rather than spending double this rate a few hours later. Sounds like a win-win to us!

6 December, 2019 – The Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is investigating renewable energy options for Cairngorm mountain. To decide the appropriateness of different renewable technologies, they are procuring a contractor to carry out appraisal work. Assessing renewable feasibility is OnGen’s forte, considering aspects HIE noted such as scenery and environment. Our automated assessment software, the OnGen Expert, is an accessible and quick way to kickstart your renewable energy journey, so why not start now?

5 December, 2019 – Interesting debate between what is best for meeting the net zero targets: nationalising or privatising the energy supply sector. Regardless of the election outcome, both private and public entities must work towards and focus on decarbonisation goals, leaving all potential political frustrations at the door.

26 November, 2019 – Research by OVO Energy indicates that 64 million unnecessary emails are sent every day in the UK, increasing our carbon footprint. If every adult in the UK sent one fewer ‘thank you’ email a day, over 16000 tonnes of carbon would be saved every year, equivalent to taking over 3000 diesel cars off the road. An interesting but important part of tackling the climate emergency – now we will think before we thank!

26 November, 2019 – Dandelion Energy claims its Sonic Drill Suite technology can reduce installation time for ground source heat pumps from up to one week to one day, lowering costs by up to 50%. Their mission to make geothermal energy available and affordable for everyone will help remove barriers to deployment, ultimately helping reduce harmful emissions. Interested in ground source heat? Why not check out our feasibility tool, the OnGen Expert, to see if it’s suitable for your site.

21 November, 2019 – Ofgem has released their final decision on the Targeting Charging Review, stating that fixed charges will be applied to all households and businesses in an attempt to fairly spread charges. Starting in 2021, generators will no longer receive payments for reducing their Transmission Demand Residual payments. Ofgem’s decision removes incentives for flexible technologies such as battery storage and risks damaging the UK’s ability to deploy cheap renewables quickly.

20 November, 2019 – The UK has climbed the world rankings for investment in renewable energy, reaching 7^th place. EY’s biannual renewable energy country attractiveness report states that the UK’s spending on renewables is picking up pace, despite national political uncertainty brought by Brexit. The drive towards net zero trumps domestic issues; there is no better time than the present to transform and decarbonise our energy sector.

13 November, 2019 – British Gas, supported by Npower, SSE, EDF, Eon and Scottish Power, won their appeal against Ofgem regarding the energy price cap, which Centrica claims cost their business £70 million. Ofgem sticks by their price cap, stating that it will remain in place to continue to protect households from unfair prices.

13 November, 2019 – Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles and Arizona State University have developed an innovative new type of solar technology that could harvest 400% more energy. The SUNbot, like sunflowers, can bend to the light to achieve optimal exposure to the sun. These novel technologies give us hope for the future.

8 November, 2019 – Great transitions seen in our base country, Scotland, with employees being contracted from oil and gas work into offshore wind. It goes to show that renewable energy can both provide employment and protect the planet. We look forward to seeing the energy transition continue in Scotland and beyond.

4 November, 2019 – Helpful insights provided by Michelle Stephens on the current state of the UK’s energy market. Stephens outlines the benefits that onsite renewables bring to businesses: from lowered energy bills and heightened environmental credentials, the case for onsite renewables is clear. Want to find out how your company can start their renewables journey? Get in touch with us at OnGen and try our onsite renewables feasibility assessment software, the OnGen Expert.

30 October, 2019 – A new study by ClientEarth found that 63% of UK adults believe that global warming is the biggest issue humanity is facing, with 54% saying that climate change will influence the way they vote in the next general election. With the declared climate emergency, let’s be hopeful this issue stays pressing in the public’s minds!

28 October, 2019 – Stephen Reid, Managing Director at AMP Clean Energy, provides insight into the future of onsite renewables in a post-Brexit and TCR UK. He states a focus on renewable heat investment will help decarbonise without the potential ramifications from TCR. The Industrial Energy Transformation Fund provided by the government will also be launching next year – it is not the end for onsite generation!

24 October, 2019 – A new study finds that 25 million EV charging points and 22 million heat pumps will need to be installed to meet the UK’s net zero by 2050 goal. Heat pumps are powered by electricity to absorb heat from either the outside air or the ground. We look forward to contributing to the increased quantities of installations through our online feasibility platform, the OnGen Expert.

24 October, 2019 – This week, the European Commission approved the Capacity Market scheme after a suspension in November 2018. Chief Executive of Energy UK said this will help ensure supply security at the lowest cost at times of high demand. The Capacity Market is depicted as constantly evolving and hopefully will help drive a net zero economy.

16 October, 2019 – A helpful explanation of our future under the Smart Export Guarantee. A key point is made – although the level of subsidy is less as compared to the feed-in tariff, the energy bill savings from having onsite renewables are still high. With only exports accruing revenue, it is important to size the new renewables scheme to the site’s energy demand, which is precisely what the OnGen Expert can do.

15 October, 2019 – According to a study by Schneider Electric, 85% of business leaders feel torn between doing the right thing for society and doing the right thing for the performance of their business. Onsite renewables give you the benefit of doing both: save the planet and save money at the same time!

10 October, 2019 – Guernsey will now be connected to renewable energy supplied by France thanks to a new undersea cable. This new connection means they are on the European grid, helping secure supply and enhance decarbonisation. We look forward to seeing the results once operational next month.

10 October, 2019 – Great insight into how to be successful with a renewable energy project, from feasibility to installation stages. Farms are often a great location for solar due to the lack of shade. Interested in starting your renewable journey? Why not use our feasibility assessment, the OnGen Expert? Please contact us for more information!

3 October, 2019 – In the UK, 2018 had the smallest reduction in cutting greenhouse gas emissions since 2012. After the declared climate emergency, investment in renewable technologies is increasingly important. Our software can assess onsite renewable energy feasibility for commercial and industrial properties. Try it now to not only see your carbon savings, but the financial payback.

2 October, 2019 – Congratulations to the team at Edinburgh University for receiving a grant regarding hydrogen storage research. It is great to see their continued investment in renewable technologies, especially after their use of the OnGen Expert.

Edinburgh University assessed their onsite renewable potential to meet their carbon neutral promise by 2040, ultimately uncovering 4000 tonnes of lifetime carbon savings.