Published

1 year ago

March 11, 2024

Alice Rush

Sustainable Energy

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

4 minutes read

Introduction Sustainability in Cathay Pacific Airways

In today’s rapidly changing world, sustainability has become an imperative for businesses across all industries.

As environmental concerns continue to grow, the aviation sector, in particular, faces scrutiny for its carbon emissions and ecological impact.

However, amidst these challenges, Cathay Pacific Airways, a renowned airline operating in the Asia-Pacific region, has emerged as a trailblazer in the pursuit of sustainability in aviation.

Cathay Pacific Airways understands the urgent need to address environmental issues and has embraced a comprehensive sustainability strategy that encompasses every aspect of its operations. From fleet management to waste reduction, the airline is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, promoting responsible practices, and inspiring positive change within the industry.

In this article, we will delve into the various sustainability initiatives undertaken by Cathay Pacific Airways. By exploring their commitment to sustainable fleet management, carbon offsetting programs, operational efficiency, waste management, and community engagement, we will uncover how the airline is leading the way towards a more sustainable future in aviation.

Cathay Pacific Airways: A Commitment to Sustainability in Aviation

In an era of growing environmental concerns, the aviation industry has come under scrutiny for its impact on the planet. However, some airlines have recognized the urgency of addressing sustainability issues and have taken significant steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Cathay Pacific Airways, one of the leading airlines in the Asia-Pacific region, has emerged as a trailblazer in the pursuit of sustainable aviation. With a clear commitment to environmental responsibility and a comprehensive sustainability strategy, Cathay Pacific is setting new benchmarks for the industry.

Sustainable Fleet Management:

Cathay Pacific understands that one of the most significant contributors to its carbon emissions is its fleet of aircraft. To address this, the airline has adopted a multi-pronged approach to sustainable fleet management. It has invested in modern and fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the Boeing 777-9 and Airbus A350, which offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. Additionally, Cathay Pacific actively pursues research and development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to reduce the carbon intensity of its operations.

Carbon Offsetting Initiatives:

Recognizing that it cannot eliminate all carbon emissions entirely, Cathay Pacific has implemented carbon offset programs to neutralize the environmental impact of its flights. Through partnerships with reputable organizations, the airline invests in projects that promote renewable energy, reforestation, and energy efficiency, effectively offsetting a significant portion of its carbon footprint. By supporting such initiatives, Cathay Pacific ensures that its flights have a minimal net impact on the environment.

Operational Efficiency:

Improving operational efficiency is another key aspect of Cathay Pacific’s sustainability strategy. The airline continuously evaluates its processes and systems to identify opportunities for reducing waste, optimizing fuel consumption, and minimizing environmental impact. This includes initiatives such as weight reduction measures, enhanced flight planning systems, and efficient ground operations. By streamlining operations, Cathay Pacific aims to achieve significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions.

Waste Management and Recycling:

Cathay Pacific recognizes the importance of responsible waste management. The airline actively promotes recycling and waste reduction initiatives across its operations. From in-flight services to ground operations and offices, Cathay Pacific encourages the separation and recycling of waste materials. Furthermore, the company is actively exploring innovative solutions to reduce single-use plastics and enhance the circularity of its materials, ensuring that waste is minimized and resources are conserved.

Community Engagement and Education:

Cathay Pacific believes in the power of education and community engagement in driving sustainable practices. The airline actively collaborates with various stakeholders, including employees, passengers, and local communities, to raise awareness about sustainability and inspire positive action. Through educational campaigns, training programs, and partnerships with non-profit organizations, Cathay Pacific seeks to create a culture of sustainability and empower individuals to make environmentally conscious choices.

table : use of SAF

Fact and Data Sustainability in Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Pacific Airways has firmly established itself as a leader in sustainability within the aviation industry. Through its comprehensive approach to sustainable fleet management, carbon offsetting initiatives, operational efficiency improvements, waste management efforts, and community engagement, the airline is making significant strides toward reducing its environmental impact.

By setting ambitious goals and implementing innovative solutions, Cathay Pacific is proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand, serving as an inspiring example for the entire aviation sector. As travelers, we can support their efforts by choosing airlines that prioritize sustainability, helping to create a more sustainable future for the industry and the planet as a whole

Sustainable Fleet Management:

Cathay Pacific Airways has invested in modern and fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the Boeing 777-9 and Airbus A350. These aircraft offer improved fuel efficiency, leading to reduced carbon emissions.

The airline has set a target to achieve carbon-neutral growth from 2020 onwards.

Cathay Pacific has conducted trials and tests with sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to explore their viability as a low-carbon alternative.

Carbon Offsetting Initiatives:

Cathay Pacific has implemented carbon offset programs to neutralize its carbon emissions. It invests in projects that promote renewable energy, reforestation, and energy efficiency to offset its environmental impact.

The airline has partnered with organizations such as ClimateCare and Natural Capital Partners to support verified carbon offset projects.

Operational Efficiency:

Cathay Pacific has adopted various measures to improve operational efficiency, leading to reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The airline utilizes advanced flight planning systems to optimize routes and reduce fuel burn.

Cathay Pacific has implemented weight reduction initiatives, including the use of lighter materials onboard its aircraft, to improve fuel efficiency.

Waste Management and Recycling:

Cathay Pacific actively promotes recycling and waste reduction initiatives throughout its operations.

The airline segregates waste materials on flights and promotes recycling practices at airports, offices, and catering facilities.

Cathay Pacific is exploring alternatives to reduce single-use plastics and enhance the circularity of materials used onboard its flights.

Community Engagement and Education:

Cathay Pacific conducts educational campaigns and collaborates with various stakeholders to raise awareness about sustainability.

The airline offers sustainability training to its employees and engages with passengers through educational materials and initiatives.

Cathay Pacific supports community-based projects and partners with non-profit organizations to drive sustainability initiatives.

Recognitions and Awards:

Cathay Pacific has been recognized for its sustainability efforts. It received the “Eco-Company of the Year” award at the Hong Kong Green Awards in 2020.

The airline has consistently achieved high rankings in sustainability indices, such as the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) and the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index.

Conclusion for Sustainability in Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Pacific Airways has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability in the aviation industry.

Through its comprehensive sustainability strategy, the airline has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and promote responsible practices.

By investing in fuel-efficient aircraft, exploring sustainable aviation fuels, and improving operational efficiency, Cathay Pacific is actively working towards reducing its carbon emissions.

The airline’s carbon offset programs, in partnership with reputable organizations, play a crucial role in neutralizing its remaining carbon footprint. By supporting renewable energy projects, reforestation, and energy efficiency initiatives, Cathay Pacific is actively contributing to global sustainability goals.

Cathay Pacific’s dedication to waste management and recycling is commendable. By promoting recycling practices, reducing single-use plastics, and exploring circularity options, the airline is striving to minimize waste and conserve resources.

Furthermore, Cathay Pacific understands the importance of community engagement and education in driving sustainable practices. Through collaborations with stakeholders, sustainability training for employees, and educational campaigns for passengers, the airline is inspiring positive action and fostering a culture of sustainability.

The airline’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as Cathay Pacific has received awards and recognitions for its sustainability initiatives. This acknowledgment highlights the airline’s commitment and sets a benchmark for the industry.

As Cathay Pacific Airways continues to prioritize sustainability, it serves as an inspiring example for the aviation industry as a whole. By integrating environmental responsibility into its operations, the airline is demonstrating that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand. As passengers, we can support their efforts by choosing airlines that prioritize sustainability and contribute to a greener future for aviation.

Cathay Pacific Airways stands at the forefront of sustainable practices in the aviation industry, and its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship sets a positive trajectory for a more sustainable and responsible future in air travel.

https://www.exaputra.com/2023/05/sustainability-in-cathay-pacific-airways.html

Renewable Energy

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

3 days ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

August 15, 2025

Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:

“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.

“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action.

“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”

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ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org

The post ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-treasurys-safe-harbor-guidance/

Renewable Energy

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Published

3 days ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff.

Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes!

These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems.

Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.

But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia?

Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective.

In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.

In this blog post:

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.

Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage.

Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.

Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day.

Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.

Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar.

Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint.

But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there!

The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.

A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.

Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery:

Energy Independence

Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the Australian energy market.

Maximized Savings

Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability.

Better Return on Investment ROI

Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates?

Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%.

These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.

Peace of Mind

Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.

Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind.

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone.

Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.

Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question.

With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.

So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things:

Your Daily Energy Usage

Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day.

Your Solar System Output

How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting.

Your Nighttime Power Usage

A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid.

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.

For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.

Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.

For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.

For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.

Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.

For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.

However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here.

Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system.

Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage.

Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance

It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.

So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process.

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage

Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining.

You don’t have to care about power outages anymore

In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source

Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak

During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun.

Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source.

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system:

Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.

Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk.

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage

One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents.

Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments.

Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime.

While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time.

Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.

Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!

You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.

First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.

A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.

Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.

Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.

Takeaway Thoughts

Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.

With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most.

By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030.

It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia.

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?

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The post Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Published

4 days ago

August 14, 2025

Alice Rush

I just spoke with a guy in the wine industry, and I asked him how, if at all, climate change is affecting what we does.

From his perspective, it’s the horrific wildfires whose smoke imbues (or “taints”) the grapes with an unpleasant flavor that needs to be modified, normally by creative methods of blending.