Energy top stories to 21/7/22. OPEC daily basket price stood at $109.93/bl, 20 July 2022
Solar panels now a problem for landfills
California has been a pioneer in pushing for rooftop solar power, building up the largest solar market in the U.S.
20 years on and many are already winding up in landfills, where in some cases, they could potentially contaminate groundwater with toxic heavy metals such as lead, selenium and cadmium.The looming challenge over how to handle truckloads of waste, some of it contaminated, illustrates how cutting-edge environmental policy can create unforeseen problems down the road. It’s not just a problem in California but also nationwide.
A new solar project was installed every 60 seconds in 2021, according to a fact sheet published by the Solar Energy Industries Assn., and the solar industry is expected to quadruple in size between 2020 and 2030. Although 80% of a typical photovoltaic panel is made of recyclable materials, disassembling them and recovering the glass, silver and silicon is extremely difficult. Read More
Tesla’s lead in the global all-electric vehicle sales market may be growing, but GM CEO Mary Barra believes that her company can still top the segment. Despite selling less than 10% of the electric cars that Tesla sold last year, Barra stated that GM can still sell more EVs in the United States than Tesla by the middle of the decade. That’s only two and a half years away. Read More
During the period from July 11 to July 15, 2022, Eni acquired n. 4,039,478 shares, at a weighted average price per share equal to 10.9916 euro, for a total consideration of 44,400,124.86 euro within the authorization to purchase treasury shares approved at Eni’s Shareholders’ Meeting on 11 May 2022, previously subject to disclosure pursuant to art. 144-bis of Consob Regulation 11971/1999.
On the basis of the information provided by the intermediary appointed to make the purchases, the following are details of transactions for the purchase of treasury shares on the Euronext Milan on a daily basis: Read More–>
The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), the industry representative body for the wind energy industry globally, and SolarPower Europe, a member-led association for the European solar PV sector, have signed an agreement with RenewAfrica, and the Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA), to jointly organise the Africa Renewables Investment Summit (ARIS) – an event that seeks to catalyse renewable energy investment for African countries.
Despite the continent’s massive renewable energy potential, Africa only received 2% of the US$2 trillion that was invested in renewable energy globally between 2000 and 2020. In order for Africa to meet its goal to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, at least US$70 billion renewable energy investment yearly will be required, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
ARIS plays a key role in catalysing renewable energy investment for Africa by bringing together major renewable energy stakeholders. The Summit in Cape Town will gather renewable developers, institutional investors, development finance institutions, technology suppliers and African government stakeholders to explore ways to harness Africa’s renewable energy potential, with some investment set to be facilitated right at the event. Read More
Energy demand in Dubai during the first half of 2022 increased by 6.3% compared to the same period in 2021, driven by economic recovery, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) said on Wednesday. In wattage terms the demand in the current period was 23,096-gigawatt hours (GWh) compared to 21,729 GWh in the first half of 2021, the state-backed utility said in a statement on its website.
DEWA’s capacity has reached 14,117 megawatts (MW) of electricity and 490 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) of desalinated water.
It provides electricity and water services to 3.514 million people living in Dubai and the Emirate’s active daytime population of over 4.7 million. These numbers are expected to grow to 5.8 million and 7.8 million, respectively by 2040, the utility said. Read More
Rolls-Royce has today announced a new leading-edge hydrogen programme and given a further update on its research into hybrid-electric power as it continues to pioneer new forms of aviation sustainability.
Together with our commitment to continually improve gas turbine efficiency and demonstrate compatibility with Sustainable Aviation Fuel, this work ensures we will continue to play a leading role in the drive to Net Zero aviation.
Rolls-Royce is planning a comprehensive series of rig and engine tests to prove the fuel can safely and efficiently deliver power for small-mid size aircraft from the mid-2030s onwards. We have further ambitions to move this on to a flight test phase as part of the programme in the long term.
Two ground tests are planned, on a Rolls-Royce AE 2100 engine in the UK this year and a Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 jet engine at a future date – a range of location options are being assessed for this including the Rolls-Royce test facility in Mississippi, USA. This will build on hydrogen combustion tests already well underway in partnership with Loughborough University and German research insititute DLR, with Cranfield University’s input on fuel system management.
The programme follows market research carried out by the UK Aerospace Technology Institute’s Fly Zero team and Project NAPKIN (New Aviation Propulsion Knowledge and Innovation Network), both of which had Rolls-Royce representation, and both concluded there is market potential for hydrogen-powered aircraft. It also complements broader research into hydrogen infrastructure and transportation that Rolls-Royce is already carrying out with easyJet. Hybrid-electric and hydrogen power systems are also part of a regional aircraft research project underway with WiderØe and Embraer.
Rolls-Royce’s hybrid electric research has been carried out on our Power Generation System 1 demonstrator – made up of an AE 2100 engine with specialist controls and thermal management systems. Read More
Rolls-Royce has signed a collaborative agreement with the Defence Science and Technology Agency in Singapore to explore sustainable solutions and digital technologies.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed at Farnborough International Air Show and will allow each of the parties to work together on application of digital technologies such as data analytics, predictive maintenance across the Defence domain and the usage of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) across aircraft platforms operated by the Ministry of Defence of Singapore. More
Rolls-Royce and Hyundai Motor Group are announcing plans today to collaborate on bringing all-electric propulsion and hydrogen fuel cell technology to the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Market. The partnership will leverage Rolls-Royce’s aviation and certification capabilities and Hyundai Motor Group’s hydrogen fuel cell technologies and industrialisation capability. Both companies share a vision of leading the way in the AAM market delivering battery-electric and fuel cell electric solutions to the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Regional Air Mobility (RAM) markets and advancing sustainable aviation.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Rolls-Royce and Hyundai Motor Group includes five strategic aims:
Collaborating on the technology development and requirements of power and propulsion systems for Hyundai’s Advanced Air Mobility Division.
Collaborating on the industrialisation of Rolls-Royce power and propulsion systems for the Advanced Air Mobility market.
Development of electric propulsion systems based upon hydrogen fuel cells as an energy source for Hyundai’s RAM platforms.
Collaborating to bring to market a joint fuel-cell electric propulsion system to the wider AAM market.
Delivering a joint fuel-cell electric aircraft demonstration by 2025.
The signing ceremony took place at Supernal’s booth at Farnborough Airshow and was attended by Warren East, CEO of Rolls-Royce, Grazia Vittadini, Chief Technology and Strategy Officer and Rob Watson, President of Rolls-Royce Electrical as well as Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group, Jaiwon Shin, President and Head of AAM Division of Hyundai Motor Group, and Jaeyong Song, Vice President of AAM Division of Hyundai Motor Group. Read More
Raytheon Technologies (NYSE: RTX) has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy for two research and development projects to test the use of hydrogen and ammonia as effective, zero-carbon options for electricity generation.The hydrogen fuel test will complement other work occurring in another development project called the Hydrogen Steam Injected, Inter-Cooled Turbine Engine (HySIITE) project. HySIITE, also supported by the Energy Department, is a Pratt & Whitney-led effort to develop hydrogen-fueled propulsion technology applicable to single-aisle commercial aircraft.
Raytheon Technologies will work with the University of Connecticut School of Engineering on the second Energy Department project to focus on the use of ammonia – which is composed of mostly hydrogen – as a zero-carbon fuel for power-generating turbines. Using ammonia presents several advantages including a pre-existing production and transportation infrastructure that requires much less refrigeration in comparison to hydrogen, and the ability to easily store it as a liquid. Read More
Pratt & Whitney announced that the company has surpassed 1,000 orders and commitments for GTF engines since the beginning of 2022. These include engines for Airbus A320neo, Airbus A220 and Embraer E-Jets E2 family aircraft. Airlines and lessors who have announced orders in 2022 include Aviation Capital Group, Air Lease Corporation, Air Canada, Azorra (A220 and E2), Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Porter Airlines and Qantas Airways. In total, over 10,000 GTF engine orders and commitments have been placed by more than 90 customers worldwide. Read More
| Oil and Gas Blends | Units | Oil Price $ | change |
| Crude Oil (WTI) | USD/bbl | $98.58 | Down |
| Crude Oil (Brent) | USD/bbl | $105.80 | Down |
| Bonny Light | USD/bbl | $118.10 | — |
| Saharan Blend | USD/bbl | $117.77 | — |
| Natural Gas | USD/MMBtu | $7.70 | Up |
| OPEC basket 20/07/22 | USD/bbl | $109.93 | Down |
Nissan Kicks electrified SUV goes on sale July 19 across Japan. The vehicle launch marks another milestone in Nissan’s expansion of its electrified vehicle lineup.Since its arrival in the Japanese market in June 2020, the Kicks has offered a powerful yet quiet driving experience thanks to its e-POWER electrified powertrain. Its compact body makes maneuvering easy while still providing ample interior space. The latest Kicks now features the second-generation e-POWER system — which gives it more power and smoother acceleration — and its cabin is even quieter. A 4WD version has been added to the lineup, providing an enjoyable, safe driving experience in a wide variety of conditions. The X Four Style Edition, an all-new grade, enhances the Kick’s reputation for quality, comfort and contemporary design with a plush brown interior and a dark, chrome-look grill.
Second-generation e-POWER
First debuting in the Nissan Note series, the second-generation e-POWER’s motor has 5% greater power and 7% higher maximum torque, resulting in a more exhilarating driving experience. Yet fuel efficiency has improved by approximately 6.4% compared to the previous Kicks*1 and is now 23 kilometers per liter. Cabin quietness has also been improved by reducing engine-start frequency at low speeds. In addition, the intuitive e-Pedal Step produces a more relaxing driving experience by providing smooth deceleration when the accelerator pedal is released.
e-POWER 4WD: Exciting driving in all conditions
The new e-POWER 4WD model features an electric 4WD system that precisely controls all four wheels with powerful motors. It ensures driving comfort on city roads, easy cornering on winding roads and strong performance in challenging conditions, such as snowy roads. Read More
Nissan launched the all-new X-Trail in Japan, with sales starting on July 25.Debuting in 2000, the X-Trail went on to become a bestselling SUV and is widely viewed as an iconic Nissan. Over the years, Nissan has continued to evolve the X-Trail. The latest incarnation features leading-edge technologies, powerful performance and a level of equipment that only a genuine SUV offers.
The fourth-generation X-Trail maintains the “tough gear” concept from the first-generation model with an even greater focus on quality. The second-generation e-POWER electric powertrain system and e-4ORCE electric-drive all-wheel control technology raise the bar for its class. As an authentic SUV that combines tradition and innovation, the all-new X-Trail provides excitement in a wide range of scenarios, ranging from daily use to exciting outdoor adventures.
“As announced in Nissan Ambition 2030, Nissan aims to drive towards a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world through our products and services,” says Ashwani Gupta, Nissan’s chief operating officer. “With this in mind, we are electrifying major models, with the X-Trail for the Japan market becoming a dedicated e-POWER model with e-4ORCE an option. The new X-Trail will play an important role in leading our electrification.”
e-POWER and VC-Turbo engine provide powerful yet quiet acceleration
The all-new X-Trail features a completely redesigned platform that reduces body weight while increasing rigidity. A high level of cabin quietness has been achieved by insulating against road and powertrain noise.
The X-Trail comes equipped with the second-generation e-POWER system, which features improved power, smoothness and quietness. The system’s gasoline engine, the world’s first mass-produced variable compression ratio engine, serves as a generator to produce electricity. Specifically tuned for the e-POWER system, the VC-Turbo engine significantly improves output even at low revs. The combination of e-POWER and the VC-Turbo engine provides a powerful driving experience and unparalleled quietness, while maintaining high fuel efficiency.
e-Pedal Step reduces the need to apply the brakes by providing deceleration when the accelerator pedal is released. The function provides increased peace of mind and smoother driving on city roads, slippery surfaces and downhill slopes. Read More
Stellantis will focus on supporting Jeep® customers in China via electrified line-up of imported Jeep vehicles and experienced Chinese dealers
Lack of progress in the previously announced plan for Stellantis to take a majority share in their joint venture led GAC Group and Stellantis to initiate discussions to terminate the joint venture that produces and distributes Jeep products in China
Stellantis and GAC will proceed to an orderly termination of local Jeep production, while Stellantis will recognize a non-cash impairment charge of approximately €297 million in first half 2022 results Read More
Free2move announced the completion of the acquisition of Share Now, the market leader and pioneer of free-floating car sharing in Europe. With this acquisition, Free2move continues its aggressive growth plan as a worldwide mobility leader and expanding its mobility hubs concept to 14 new cities. Share Now’s executive management team remains in place.
“We are very enthusiastic about the new chapter we are about to write with Share Now, the European leader in free-floating car-sharing,” said Brigitte Courtehoux, Free2move CEO. “Free2move and Share Now are very complementary and our joint expertise now grants us the savoir-faire to truly innovate in the worldwide mobility market. I offer a very warm welcome to every Share Now colleague as they join the Free2move family.”
“We are very happy to join Free2move,” said Olivier Reppert, CEO Share Now. “We will keep moving forward together to meet our customers’ expectations for increasingly sustainable, innovative and flexible mobility.”
Free2move is a worldwide mobility player for B2B and B2C customers with a fleet of more than 450,000 cars offering rental, car sharing and subscription services, and a network of more than 500,000 parking places. With this acquisition, Free2move expands its reach now to 32 European and U.S. mobility hubs. Read More
Volkswagen Group is strengthening its U.S. leadership team to accelerate its ambitious growth strategy in North America. As part of its NEW AUTO strategy, the Group aims to leverage the transformation to electric vehicles (EVs) in the region with a broad product portfolio and the set-up of a new company to enter the all-electric pickup space. Scott Keogh, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, has been appointed President and CEO of Scout, an independent company that is being established in the U.S. Pablo Di Si, Executive Chairman of Volkswagen South American Region, will assume leadership of Volkswagen Group of America, and CEO of Volkswagen North American Region. The leadership changes will take effect September 1.
Building on the EV momentum in the U.S., Volkswagen Group plans to roll out the broadest electrified portfolio in the North American market. By the decade’s end, Volkswagen Group companies aim to offer more than 25 BEV models to American consumers. Volkswagen will soon start localized production of its all-electric ID.41 compact SUV in Chattanooga, which will help meet high customer demand in the market. In addition, the Group will build up dedicated EV capabilities in engineering, research and development, assembly, components production, and strong supplier partnerships. Read More
| Region | Period | Rig Count | Change f |
| U.S.A | 15 July 2022 | 756 | +4 |
| Canada | 15 July 2022 | 191 | +16 |
| International | June 2022 | 824 | +7 |
Hyundai IONIQ 5 EV to Transport MK Taxi Passengers in Kyoto.Hyundai Mobility Japan, Hyundai Motor Company’s Japanese business unit, announced today that it will supply 50 ‘IONIQ 5 Lounge’ EVs to MK Group in Kyoto this summer to help the taxi service operator and city achieve their respective carbon neutrality goals.
By adopting 50 IONIQ 5 Lounge units, MK is on its way to electrify 30 percent of its fleet by 2025 and reach 100 percent electrification by 2030. The company stopped operating LPG-powered vehicles in February 2022. As of March 2022, MK’s taxi fleet has included 18 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and 10 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). MK is planning to install fast charging stations at each of its taxi business locations.
MK chose IONIQ 5 Lounge due in part to the BEV’s long driving range and fast charging time. Moreover, the vehicle is providing a comfortable, spacious second row and plethora of convenience features that are expected to provide an unsurpassed riding experience for MK passengers. Hyundai Mobility Japan will also partner with MK’s maintenance facility located in Kyoto to provide technological support, so that the partner company can run the fleet efficiently.
Hyundai Mobility Japan entered the Japanese market in February 2022, supplying only zero-emission vehicles, including IONIQ 5 and the NEXO hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). The company is actively taking part in Japan’s carbon neutralization while providing its customers with innovative vehicles and unique mobility experiences. The company’s supply of 50 IONIQ 5 BEVs will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Kyoto to tackle climate change. Read More
Hyundai Motor Announces 2022 Q2 Business Results. Q2 revenue increased 18.7% Y/y to KRW 36 trillion
· Operating profit up 58% to KRW 2.98 trillion
· Net profit (including minority interest) rose 55.6% to KRW 3.08 trillion
· The company sold 976,350 units in Q2, down 5.3% from the previous year, affected by chip supply shortages and lockdowns in some Chinese regions
· Improved mix from higher sales of Genesis luxury models and SUVs along with a favorable currency environment helped lift the operating profit margin to 8.3%
· Hyundai’s Q2 full-electric model sales jumped 49% year on year to 53,126 units
Hyundai will continue to strengthen its global leadership position in electric vehicles with its new IONIQ 6 battery electric vehicle, which will launch in the third quarter.
OilandGasPress Energy Newsbites and Analysis Roundup |Compiled by: OGP Staff, Segun Cole @oilandgaspress.
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