Published

2 years ago

January 8, 2024

Alice Rush

Weather Guard Lightning Tech

London Mega-Merger, Vestas’ Record U.S. Order, WEG’s Global Growth in Renewables

A proposed merger aims to create one of the largest renewable investment trusts in London. Vestas has bounced back from previous issues to receive its largest ever US turbine order. Brazilian turbine manufacturer WEG is emerging as a global wind power player through a new partnership with a European company.

Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard’s StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes’ YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us!

Pardalote Consulting – https://www.pardaloteconsulting.com
Weather Guard Lightning Tech – www.weatherguardwind.com
Intelstor – https://www.intelstor.com

Allen Hall: I’m Allen Hall, president of Weather Guard Lightning Tech, and I’m here with the founder and CEO of Intelstor Phil Totaro, and the chief commercial officer of Weather Guard, Joel Saxum. And this is your News Flash. News Flash is brought to you by our friends at Intelstor. If you need actionable information about renewable projects or technologies, check out Intelstor at intelstor.com.

Octopus Renewable Infrastructure Trust has proposed merging with Aquila European Renewables. The deal aims to create one of the largest renewable energy investment trusts in London. The combined entity would have a market cap around 750 million pounds. We would also have a portfolio of roughly 1 billion pounds across Europe.

Phil, this is a big deal. I know it’s in the early stages still, but if this were to happen, this is a ground shaking event.

Philip Totaro: It is because both companies have actually been growing their European portfolios. And so to take these two entities and put them together makes a pretty compelling case for one of the biggest certainly would be the biggest financially focused asset owner within Europe and potentially within the rest of the world.

Most of the world. Asset owners are independent power producers, utility companies, et cetera. But this would be one of, if not the biggest asset owner both wind and solar assets and energy storage as well. If they were to actually get this deal to go through. So it’s worth keeping track of it.

Joel Saxum: Yeah. Interesting is it’s basically when we talk of Octopus renewables infrastructure, trust. And then looking at Aquila, you’re talking about it’s a more than at the grand scheme of things, it’s a fund, right? It’s a financial asset owner. That is a lot a lot of interest in a lot of different places.

They being this size, they will have a pretty easy way of attracting capital to grow as well, in my opinion, right? If you’re already this big and you’re already making these kinds of moves the larger players within the the trading markets, your Vanguards, your BlackRocks, or these kinds of players are more apt to put money into larger groups like this as they grow as well.

Allen Hall: Vestas has received its largest ever order in the U S market.

A 1. 1 gigawatt deal to supply 242 V one 63, 4. 5 megawatt turbines for Pattern Energy’s SunZia wind project in New Mexico. The order is also Vestas is largest single onshore project globally. This thing is huge. And obviously they held it out to the end of Q4, 2023, but it has ramifications all through 2024.

Philip Totaro: Absolutely. This deal gives them somewhere in the order of about 3. 6 gigawatts worth of V163 platform orders globally. Which is of course, a derivative product off of some of their previous designs, but it’s a brand new blade and it’s something they’re really hoping is going to play well in the U. S. Market. So to have such a strong foothold with not only this deal with the SunZia project. But a few other orders for this product platform as well in the U. S. for undisclosed customers. It’s important for them and it’s a pretty big move for a product that was designed to be a big four, four and a half, five megawatt product platform.

But in a very low wind speed regime with such a large rotor, the 163.

Joel Saxum: Something I’d like to highlight with this one is speaking towards some of the industry issues that we’re seeing right now. We know Siemens has some issues and they’re teething on them as we speak. Vestas knocking down these orders is a testament to the industry, allowing someone to come back from having a bad stretch.

2020, 2021, Vestas had 175 million in write downs on some issues that they had in the marketplace. They’ve regained the trust of the marketplace to the point where they have 3. 6 gigawatts of orders at the end of a quarter ready to go. So I think it bodes good things for the industry going forward that these OEMs have the ability and the market has their back.

At the point where they show that they’ve solved some of the issues and they move forward in a big way.

Allen Hall: WEG has partnered with Statkraft to supply and install a wind turbine at Statkraft’s wind site in Brazil. The deal is announced in December and involves WEG’s 7 megawatt new turbine model.

The turbine is a result of WEG’s partnership with Petrobras to develop large onshore wind turbines in Brazil. The WEG turbine is expected to be operational by mid 2024. Phil, that’s a short time frame for a 7x machine from WEG. I know WEG has a lot of capability, but it’s also interesting that Statkraft is connecting with WEG for a product in Brazil.

Philip Totaro: It is because what WEG’s done, and keep in mind this product’s been under development and in the design phase for a while. They’ve announced it in the earlier part of 2023 and now they’re expecting to be able to go into low rate production with it, with prototype and then low rate production in late 2024.

But this deals with Statkraft is interesting because most of the companies who have purchased WEGs turbines in Brazil been Brazilian focused developers. They haven’t had as much of a track record of success with. European independent power producers or utility companies have come into the Brazilian market.

So it’s important for them for both WEG and for Statkraft. Statkraft also wants to be able to cultivate a third OEM option, if you will. You’ve got Vestas which is dominating the market. You’ve got Siemens, Gamesa, which is floundering a bit and unfortunately not selling their five and six megawatt some of their five and six megawatt platform products in Brazil. Nordex is there to fill in some of that, but a company like Statkraft wants to create price competition. They want to create supply chain diversity. And doing a deal with WEG is actually a fairly sensible option for them.

Joel Saxum: Phil, from your seat, is there an avenue in which WEG leaves Brazil to sell in other markets?

Philip Totaro: They actually already have, Joel, and I’m, you may not be aware of this, but they’ve set up prototypes in India previously under license agreement with their… WEG is a big industrial company that makes generators. Not only in Brazil, but they also have facilities in India.

So they’ve taken their designs for some prototype units for their smaller turbines and done them in India already. The question, the more maybe direct to your question though, is. Are they prepared to go global like the Chinese OEMs and other companies are trying to do? And I think the answer is yes, they definitely have potential.

Keep in mind, they’ve only been doing wind turbines for 10 years. They licensed the technology from Northern Power Systems for the 2. 3 and 3 megawatt product series back in 2013. And then eventually acquired the rights, the IP rights outright. But they’ve been on the hunt for international growth opportunities and a partnership with a company like stat craft is also interesting because if this works, then does that open up opportunities in Chile?

Does that open up opportunities throughout North America and Europe even, or Australia? They’ve got their eye on a number of different markets, but they’re paying close attention. They’re also trying to be very active in South Africa as well. There’s certainly potential for, for them.

Joel Saxum: Yeah. Interesting because they have a seven megawatt machine, which is standalone on the market for an onshore turbine. There’s not a, there’s not a whole lot of competition there. And I know as a someone in the U S I’m always looking on the horizon to see, is there a possibility of another OEM coming in?

Because we don’t believe that we’re going to allow Chinese OEMs to be connected to our grid anytime soon. So if there’s something else coming in, it could be interesting.

Philip Totaro: And it could be WEG from Brazil. It could be somebody from India. There’s also other companies that are definitely trying and looking at the U S market, especially in consideration of the recent guidance and rules that the treasury department and the IRS have proposed on the 45 X manufacturing tax credits.

So that’s giving a lot of companies a good feeling for what they can expect if they domesticate production.

London Mega-Merger, Vestas’ Record U.S. Order, WEG’s Global Growth in Renewables

Renewable Energy

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

19 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.