Empowering the Green Transition - Week 48
This week's newsletter highlights Codibly's webinar on IEEE 2030.5 (feel invited!), the rise of subscription services in the auto industry, and Switzerland's innovative use of vertical solar panels. T-Phite's tire-to-EV batteries, Highview Power & ?rsted's offshore wind LAES, bp's Aussie EV network, US methane rule, Bill Gates at COP28, and Tesla's Megapack order in Melbourne are other topics covered this week. Enjoy!
Join Codibly’s Expert-Led Webinar on IEEE 2030.5: unveiling smart grid protocols
You are cordially invited to an illuminating webinar on IEEE 2030.5, hosted by Codibly and QualityLogic. This event promises to unravel the intricacies and advantages of IEEE 2030.5 certification.
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December 7, 2023 | 18:00 CET / 12:00 EST / 9:00 PST?
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Subscription services emerge in the auto industry
Automakers are adopting subscription services as a new revenue source, particularly to support the costly shift to electric vehicles. Companies like General Motors, Toyota, BMW, and Ford are charging for features like remote start and enhanced cruise control. General Motors anticipates subscription fees could generate up to $25 billion annually by 2030. While this model helps fund the transition to electric cars, consumer acceptance varies, with many willing to pay for added features but reluctant to incur extra costs for already-owned vehicle capabilities. The industry is navigating this new approach, balancing affordability with optional subscription services.
Our Expert's Comment:
The ongoing shift in the automotive industry towards subscription-based features highlights the increasing importance of software in the e-mobility sector. Automakers are now leveraging software to offer advanced functionalities, like hands-free cruise control and remote locking, on a subscription basis. This transformation indicates a significant change in how vehicles are utilized and the growing role of software in enhancing and personalizing the driving experience.
For companies involved in e-mobility software, this trend opens up new avenues for innovation and revenue generation. The ability to offer software upgrades and new features through subscriptions allows for continuous engagement with customers and the opportunity to introduce enhancements without the need for physical modifications to the vehicle. It also reflects a deeper integration of software in vehicle design and functionality, emphasizing its equal importance to hardware.
The e-mobility industry can capitalize on this trend by developing adaptable, user-friendly software solutions that enhance vehicle performance and offer customizable features. As the market evolves, the focus on software will likely grow, presenting significant opportunities for companies in the e-mobility software sector.
Switzerland innovates with vertical solar panels on roadside wall
Switzerland's Appenzell Ausserhoden canton has installed 756 vertical solar panels on a roadside retaining wall, contributing to its renewable energy goals. These panels, expected to produce around 230,000 kWh annually, are part of the canton's aim to generate 40% of its electricity from renewables by 2035. The installation, a collaboration between K2 Systems and Solarmotion, is designed to maximize energy yield, especially in winter months, by utilizing vertical space efficiently. This project showcases an innovative approach to integrating solar energy into existing infrastructure.
领英推荐
Used tires: a new source for electric vehicle batteries
T-Phite, a Chilean startup, is transforming used tires into electric vehicle batteries using a process called pyrolysis. This method breaks down tires to produce carbon black, a key component for battery electric pathways. This innovative approach offers a solution for the disposal of the 250 million tires discarded annually in the U.S. and supports the growing demand for sustainable electromobility materials. The process, which has potential applications in next-generation sodium batteries, attracts investor interest for industrial-scale production, marking a significant advancement in eco-friendly battery technology.
Highview Power and ?rsted explore offshore wind and liquid air energy storage integration
Highview Power and ?rsted's study reveals that integrating Liquid Air Energy Storage (LAES) with offshore wind energy can significantly enhance grid flexibility and productivity. This collaboration aims to develop projects aligned with offshore wind farm timelines, potentially contributing to the UK's energy independence and net-zero goals. The integration is crucial for stabilizing the power network and improving the efficiency of offshore wind farms, with the UK potentially needing up to 100 GWh of energy storage by 2050. The findings will be part of the UK Government’s “Long Duration Energy Storage” consultation.
bp boosts EV charging network in Australia
bp is expanding its EV charging network in Australia, installing over 100 charge points nationwide to support the surge in electric vehicle sales. The bp pulse network, accessible via a dedicated app, offers fast-charging options compatible with popular plug standards. With plans to add 600 new charge points by 2025, bp aims to alleviate range anxiety for EV drivers. The current stations provide up to 75-kilowatt fast charging, with future upgrades to include 150 and 400-kilowatt chargers. Pricing varies by location and time, with most stations charging 55 cents per kilowatt-hour. This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing Australia's EV infrastructure.
U.S. introduces methane emissions rule at COP28
At COP28, the Biden administration announced a new regulation requiring U.S. oil and gas producers to detect and fix methane leaks, a significant step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted the U.S.'s commitment to climate action, including substantial clean energy investments. The methane rule, set to prevent 58 million tons of emissions by 2038, will take effect next year without needing Congressional approval. This move is part of a global effort to address climate change, particularly focusing on reducing potent methane emissions.
Bill Gates advocates for innovation in climate and development at COP28
Speaking at COP28, Bill Gates highlighted the importance of innovation in simultaneously tackling climate change and improving global welfare. He noted significant advancements in clean energy technologies since the Paris Agreement and emphasized the need for further investment in areas like smart power grids and clean hydrogen. Gates stressed the urgency of adapting to climate impacts, particularly for vulnerable populations in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. He advocated for a balanced approach to resource allocation, ensuring that efforts to reduce emissions also support health and development goals. Gates' message underlined the potential of innovation to address the interconnected challenges of climate change, health, and development.
Tesla secures major Megapack order for Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub
Tesla has secured a substantial order for its Megapack batteries for the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub (MREH), set to be one of the largest battery systems globally. The project, with a total capacity of 600 MW/1.6 GWh, is part of a $245 million investment and aims to be completed by 2025. It will utilize Tesla's batteries to stabilize the grid using local renewable energy sources, potentially powering 200,000 homes in Melbourne. This project underscores Tesla's growing influence in large-scale energy storage, with its Megapack becoming increasingly popular for such applications.