Published

12 months ago

December 30, 2024

Alice Rush

Connecticut and Massachusetts have backed out of their portions of the Vineyard Wind 2 offshore project, Avaada Group is investing $12B in renewables for Rajasthan by 2030, and Enersense is selling its onshore wind and solar project development business to Fortum.

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Welcome to Uptime News Flash. Industry news, lightning fast. Your hosts, Allen Hall, Joel Saxum, and Phil Totaro discuss the latest deals, mergers, and alliances that will shape the future of wind power. News Flash is brought to you by IntelStor. For market intelligence that generates revenue, visit www.intelstor.com.

Allen Hall: There’s been a significant setback for offshore wind development from Vineyard Offshore as they announced the withdrawal of its 800 megawatt portion of the Vineyard Wind 2 project from Massachusetts contract negotiations and that decision came after Connecticut opted not to purchase its planned 400 megawatt share of the project.

This development impacts Massachusetts ambitious offshore wind goals, where despite earlier procurement of 3200 megawatts of capacity, only Vineyard Wind 1 remains active in the state’s pipeline. And Phil, this is due to the combination of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island working together to draw from some of these offshore projects.

But now, Connecticut is full stop, not going to be involved in offshore wind, they said, for at least a couple of years.

Phil Totaro: Yeah, not that Connecticut has always been Wind Energy’s biggest well, biggest fan, pardon the pun. Connecticut has, is basically saying that they’re pulling out of this procurement because offshore wind is just too expensive, and that’s entirely true. . Given what the industry has to price the PPA at to be able to pay for the project, given the the cost of money and the cost of equipment these days.

So I can see why they did it, but it does kind of screw Rhode Island and Massachusetts a little bit because, they were counting on that offtake. So the question then becomes, does Massachusetts unilaterally go and sign an agreement 2 at some point?

Is that even something that’s going to be able to move forward, before January 20th, where presumably we’re not going to get, four years worth of BOEM approvals on offshore wind farms? So there’s a lot of uncertainty and unfortunately chaos caused by, Connecticut’s decision here and, and certainly unfortunate for, for vineyard offshore wind.

Joel Saxum: I think one thing to think about here is that like you said, Phil, that there’s a looming deadline that might close the door on some of these wind things or not, not slam the door, but close it a little bit more this offshore wind program that we have going on the East Coast for no matter what state you’re in.

And, and the way I’m looking at some of this is, yes, the PPAs are expensive. I see that. Tech, the technology is expensive. I see that the financing is, has been a bit difficult. It should be hopefully getting easier to see that. However, If your goal is to have renewable energies and you’re in the northeast part of the United States, you don’t have a whole lot of options.

Your options basically are offshore wind and something else that someone dreams up for something because that’s it. So if you have renewable energy goals and you’re those states, rather than canceling things or doing things of this sort, I would just love to see more people at the at the table having transparent conversations.

Allen Hall: India’s renewable energy sector is receiving a massive boost as Avaada Group commits to invest 12 billion U. S. dollars in Rajasthan by 2030. The ambitious plan aims to transform the northwestern state into a global renewable energy center. Energy powerhouse. Now the investment will fund several initiatives including a 1.

2 gigawatt pump storage project, green hydrogen and ammonia facilities and utility scale solar and wind power sites across four cities. Now Phil, the development of renewable energy in India is growing at a massive pace but also some old technology, coal factories, gas burning technology still exists there.

Where is the future for India?

Phil Totaro: They’re actually making a fairly rapid transition to wind and solar that has been accelerating over the past few years and Avada group has a plan to get 30 gigawatts by 2030 just by themselves as a company. That’s a, a lot of like countries or maybe states might have that kind of a target elsewhere in the world, but this is just one company saying, we’re gonna get to 30 gigawatts by 2030 and, and in this case spend, 12 billion plus , to be able to get there, obviously the 12 billion isn’t gonna pay for the whole thing, just to be clear.

It’s, it’s one tranche of money that they’re setting aside for for this, but they already have a portfolio of something around four gigawatts worth of wind and solar and a little, a tiny bit of battery storage. But it’s, it’s going to be a tremendous amount of growth in India that has been talked about for more than a decade and is finally, finally coming to fruition with investments like this.

Joel Saxum: Allen and I kind of live this story every day. We’re talking with a lot of wind operators in India, and you just see growth, growth, growth, new turbines, new turbines, new turbines left and right. To add to that, one of the lar or the largest renewable energy park in the world is going to be in the north of India.

West corner of India as well. It’s called the Kavda Renewable Energy Park. And that thing’s going to be 30 gigawatts just in itself. Now that’s solar and wind combined of course. But that’s, that’s planned. So the plans are there. The, the money’s flowing. We’re seeing development. I think it’s fantastic for India to fast forward their economy that way as well.

So kudos to them.

Allen Hall: Finnish energy services provider Enersense International is selling its onshore wind and solar project development business to Fortum in a strategic shift. The deal valued at 9. 5 million euros with the potential future earn out up to 74 million euros includes a 2. 6 gigawatt onshore wind generator.

Development pipeline. Now this transaction aligned with Intersense’s June decision to abandon its zero emission energy producer ambitions. Phil, what’s behind the Intersense decision to get out of clean energy?

Phil Totaro: Well, they’re not necessarily getting out of clean energy. They’re getting out of the clean energy development project development process. And considering the fact that they’re mostly a financial investment vehicle as, as a company that makes sense. It’s however, a bit confusing. I mean, I can see why they would partner with Fortum.

It’s also a bit curious because Fortum makes somewhat dubious decisions as far as, who they partner with and their investments and whatnot. And yet it Intersense to be able to divest, the, the early stage, particularly project development and portfolio and pipeline and capabilities since it’s not their core competency.

It does give them the opportunity to buy back into projects that, Fortum would build. And then if they want to be the owner and, and hire someone on to be the operator, then they can they can continue to do that. But I think again, this is about alignment with their core competency. I think that’s the general sense I get from this, this deal.

Joel Saxum: Yeah, I agree with Phil. I think it’s just smart business, right? If you’re good at one thing, stay being good at it. Stay being that financial advisor or that financial services vehicle to get things going. We see a lot of divestment in pipelines and a lot of divestment in active assets. Doing them at certain stages just makes sense financially.

So, doing this, Enersense gets back to their core competencies, like Phil said, and Fortum gets to, further their goals. One of their goals is to develop at least 800 megawatts of shovel ready onshore wind and solar projects by the end of 2026. And with this deal closing in the first quarter of 2025, it’ll help them out.

https://weatherguardwind.com/vineyard-setback-india/

Renewable Energy

Raw Stupidity: Yet One More Reason that Trump Must Go

Published

18 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Alice Rush

From the Huffington Post:

A senior FBI officer struggled to answer basic questions about antifa, despite characterizing the organization as “the most immediate violent threat” the US faces.

At a House Committee on Homeland Security hearing on Thursday, Michael Glasheen, operations director of the national security branch of the FBI, said he agreed with President Donald Trump that antifa is one of the greatest national security threats to the country.

The answer, of course, is that “Antifa” is a concept, not an organization. It refers to anyone who is against fascism. It has no headquarters, no leaders, and no members.

Now, it is true that people with these views can be violent. When my father led a crew of his fellow anti-fascists, flying a B-17 bomber in World War 2, they completed 29 successful missions, destroying Nazi oil refineries. Were Nazi soldiers killed in the process? I never asked him that, and he probably didn’t know, as they were flying at 29,000 feet, but it seems extremely unlikely that no one died.

In peacetime, we antifa people are non-violent. We may be marching for BLM, or encouraging the use of science in policymaking, or expressing our view that the United States should not have a king.

The FBI must understand this; they must be saying this purely to placate Trump. No one can be that stupid.

Raw Stupidity: Yet One More Reason that Trump Must Go

Renewable Energy

Hydrokinetics Gone Awry

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2025

Alice Rush

When I came across the meme at left, I was instantly reminded of a guy who called me from Baltimore, MD about 15 years ago, anxious for me to hunt up investors in an invention he had created. I was having a hard time understanding the concept he was describing, and so he told me, “Think of it as a river in a box.”

“Ah! Now I get it. You have a box full of standing water. You add energy to it to get it moving, and then our extract energy from the moving water. And you think that you can extract more energy than you put into it.”

“Yes!” he said excitedly.

I calmly told him that this violates the laws of physics, specifically the first and second laws of thermodynamics, but he wasn’t “having it.” I wished him a pleasant good night and asked him to let me know when he had built a working prototype.

I’m still hoping to hear from him again.

Hydrokinetics Gone Awry

Renewable Energy

Benefits of Solar Power Solution in Manufacturing Facilities

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2025

Alice Rush

In today’s dynamic manufacturing world, energy is more than just a utility; it’s the spark that keeps production running. Industrial facilities, powered by massive engines and heavy machinery, often operate 24/7, driving output but also consuming enormous amounts of electricity.

The issues? Soaring energy costs and a growing environmental footprint.

Sometimes it’s like a cycle that often feels impossible to break, but what if your facility could draw energy from a cleaner, more reliable, and cost-effective energy source?

Yes, you heard it right, and that’s where solar power comes in!

As electricity prices continue to rise and corporate sustainability goals become more pressing, manufacturers are rethinking how they power their commercial operations.

Therefore, solar energy is emerging as a game-changing solution, offering reliability, long-term savings, and a sustainable path forward for the Australian manufacturing industry.

In this blog, we’ll explore how manufacturers are successfully implementing solar power, featuring real-world case studies from Cyanergy that highlight both the business advantages and environmental impact.

So, let’s explore how solar energy can help your manufacturing facility reduce costs and enhance efficiency, achieving long-term sustainability.

In this blog post:

Why Solar Energy Is Essential for Modern Manufacturing Facilities?

In Australia, manufacturing facilities typically have large roof or yard footprints, significant and relatively
stable electrical loads, including lighting, motors, HVAC, and other machinery. So, the energy used every day is
enormous.

By harnessing the sun’s energy, factories can significantly cut operating
costs, reduce carbon emissions, and gain greater control over long-term energy stability.

Beyond the environmental benefits, solar power also strengthens a company’s competitive edge and brand reputation in
an increasingly eco-conscious market.

Here we’ve penned down the importance of solar power in the manufacturing industry:

Energy cost mitigation

So, how solar energy reduces manufacturing costs in Australia?

With electricity prices rising and energy market volatility increasing, incorporating solar energy offers a
way to
reduce grid dependency and lower utility costs in the long term.

Ensure Operational Continuity & Resilience

Solar panel systems, when paired
with
battery storage, can help smooth peak energy demand, reduce grid dependence, and improve functioning
time.

Promote Sustainability and Brand Value

In larger industries, many manufacturers are under pressure from customers, regulators, investors, and
internal
stakeholders to reduce
their carbon footprint.

Solar helps them to achieve energy freedom, powering businesses with a sustainable energy source.

Increase Asset value & ROI

Solar systems, when sized appropriately and properly optimised, can deliver payback in a few years and
continue to
provide savings thereafter.

According to Cyanergy’s capability statement, we delivered a 490
kW system that generated 752 MWh for a manufacturing client, with a 37-month payback period.

This shows that industrial-scale solar can deliver real, practical results for manufacturers.

Now, let’s examine solar power solutions for manufacturing facilities, case studies, and best practices to ensure a
clear understanding.

Case Studies from Cyanergy: Real-World Manufacturing Success in Australia!

In this part of the blog, we have selected three examples from Cyanergy to illustrate how manufacturing facilities are utilising solar energy.

These are not generic installations; these are production-oriented businesses taking real steps across different states of Australia.

1. Uniplas Mouldings International – Wetherill Park, NSW

Project Overview

System size: 490 kW solar system installed in staged phases
Investment: AUD $591,823.71.
Annual generation: 752 MWh
Yearly energy costs before solar: approximately $647,000.
After solar: $456K, which is approximately 55% of the previous
Payback period: 37 months

Why it matters

For Uniplas, a large industrial manufacturer, the solar system not only significantly reduces their operating energy
costs, but the payback of just over 3 years means that the return on investment is also attractive for the
business.

The staged approach also allowed them to access multiple subsidies and implement the project rapidly; for example,
the first stage of 200 kW was completed in four weeks.

This clearly shows how manufacturing operations can incorporate
solar without any significant disruption.

2. AC Laser – Thomastown, VIC

Project Overview

System size: 99.45 kW
Annual generation: 141.75 MWh
Annual electricity cost before solar: $79,000.
After solar: $38,160, a reduction of more than 50%
Payback period: 26 months

Why it matters

This is a smaller-scale manufacturing facility compared to Uniplas, yet the results are impressive: a more than 50%
cost reduction and a shorter payback period.

This shows that not only large-scale commercial properties but also mid-sized manufacturing operations can benefit
from solar, not just large ones.

Insights Gained from the Case

Don’t wait until your business is huge, as size is scalable.
The solar system’s size aligned well with the manufacturing load, saving thousands of dollars.
Rapid ROI shows manufacturing facilities can justify solar as a capital investment for their business.

3. Specialised (Cycling-Industry manufacturer) – Port Melbourne, VIC

Project Overview

System size: 39.6 kW
Annual generation: 47.32 MWh
Electricity cost before solar: $26,720; after solar: $17,770
Payback period: 45 months

Why it matters

Although smaller, this project depicts that solar energy is a viable option for manufacturing across various sizes
and sectors, even in facilities with a relatively small carbon footprint.

The case emphasises sustainability as a business value and how solar can support brand positioning as well as cost
savings.

Major Takeaways

Solar supports both cost and branding sustainability
goals.
Even medium-sized systems can provide meaningful savings.
The ROI
generated must be viewed in terms of both financial and reputational benefits for any
business, whether it’s large or small.

Is Now the Right Time for Manufacturers to Transition to Solar Energy?

After knowing the numerous benefits of solar solutions, you may be tempted to go solar. However, transitioning from
traditional energy sources to solar energy comes with a cost.

From government
incentives to long-term cost savings, the financial case for solar energy is compelling.

Still wondering, is it time for businesses to go solar? Here’s why you should act now:

Electricity prices continue to rise in many markets, strengthening the return on investment for solar
energy.
Many governments and utilities offer incentives, favourable tariffs, or rebates
for industrial solar projects.
Day by day, the pressure for sustainability reporting and corporate social responsibility (CSR) is
intensifying. Manufacturing facilities with high energy loads are often subject to inspection.
Technology costs have fallen recently, making solar panels and inverters
more affordable than ever and reducing payback time.
With the right sizing and execution, the solar system becomes a long-term asset that pays for itself,
releasing capital for other manufacturing investments.

Best Practices for Manufacturing Facilities Considering Solar

Solar can be a powerful game-changer for manufacturing companies and large commercial buildings when implemented correctly.

But that doesn’t mean it’s as easy as flipping the switch.

Therefore, before investing in Solar power, ensure you understand every step that leads to real savings and sustainable success for your business.

1. Conduct a detailed energy assessment & align solar to load

Before installation, it is essential to understand your manufacturing facility’s energy usage patterns, including the peak usage limit, daily load curves, and seasonal variations.

The better the match between system size, orientation, and actual usage, the higher the yield and the quicker the payback.

At Cyanergy, we provide a customised design based on site analysis.

2. Use staging or modular deployment

If you have a large manufacturing site, you may benefit from staging the solar solution in phases.

For example, in Uniplas’s case, the installation was divided into three stages. This enables access to multiple subsidies, enhances cash flow, and mitigates the risk of disruption.

3. Optimise your system size & measure consumption rate

Over-sizing or under-sizing can both cause significant loss in a business. Therefore, the design should minimise waste and maximise the use of solar energy on-site.

As in AC Laser’s mid-sized facility, a 99 kW system fits their load and delivers huge savings.

4. Check your rooftop or plant infrastructure

Is your rooftop compatible with solar panel installation?

For manufacturing facilities, factors such as roof strength, shading, orientation, structural constraints, and maintenance access are crucial.

Ensure the facility can support panels, inverters, wiring, and monitoring systems without compromising building aesthetics.

5. Perform regular monitoring & performance tracking

Everything requires a certain amount of care and maintenance to function properly over time. The story is the same for a solar panel system.

Real-time monitoring allows you to spot performance issues, shading effects, degradation, and inverter downtime.

Cyanergy emphasises continuous monitoring post-installation.

6. Research on financial modelling & payback analysis

When going for solar, always calculate realistic payback periods, ensure system cost fits within capital budgets,

You should also check the available incentives, tax benefits, payback time, and how to stack several rebates for maximum savings.

For example, many Cyanergy projects offer a 2–4 year payback, with several solar rebates that can be combined with the VEU Rebate.

7. Align with sustainability and your brand strategy

In manufacturing factories, incorporating solar energy can be a substantial component of a broader sustainability strategy. Why?

Solar reduces your dependency on harmful fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

It positions your brand and promotes your business, demonstrating corporate responsibility and improving stakeholder perception.

8. Maintenance & lifecycle planning

Solar systems require periodic maintenance, inverter replacements, cleaning, and monitoring.

So, manufacturing facilities should incorporate service arrangements into their design. Plan for system longevity, degradation, and eventual replacement or upgrade to ensure optimal performance.

9. Consider adding Battery storage

Even though optional, integrating battery storage or demand management can enhance value by enabling peak shaving, reducing demand charges, and storing excess energy for nighttime use or during grid outages.

10. Engage stakeholders and minimise disruption

In manufacturing, you can’t easily stop production. Plan your solar installation during low-production periods, coordinate with your team, and prioritise safety to minimise downtime.

Final Notes: Ready To Take The Next Step?

For manufacturing facilities, solar power isn’t just about being eco-friendly; it’s a smart business move for Australians. Cyanergy’s case studies showed that even large manufacturers can achieve paybacks of 2–4 years, reduce costs, lower emissions, and enhance brand value.

With proper planning, energy assessment, correct system sizing, phased installation, and active monitoring, solar can deliver lasting benefits.

So, if rising energy bills or sustainability goals are on your radar, it’s time to view solar energy as an innovative manufacturing solution, apart from just a renewable energy source.

Reach out to Cyanergy, conduct an energy audit, and engage a solar specialist with manufacturing experience today. Cyanergy is here to help!