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Bigger Vision for Long Duration Energy Storage

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One trillion dollars will be spent on Long Duration Energy Storage LDES withing 15 years and another trillion shortly thereafter in the estimation of Zhar Research in its new report, “Long Duration Energy Storage LDES Markets 2023-2043: Grid Microgrid Delayed Electricity 6 Hours to Seasonal”. The need is greater. The world’s electricity grids will need to deploy 85-140 TWh of long duration energy storage by 2040 with a market potential of $1.5 – 4 trillion, according to the LDES Council.

Action is user-backed and global. This year, the LDES Council co-founded a government-backed initiative in Australia and, in the USA, grouped with the US Department of Energy OTT, Edison EIET and EPRI in the US. In the Europe, it works with the European Commission to make it happen. The UK government recently announced $37 million support for LDES development.

Flood of proposals can lead to greater ambition

Heavyweight financing and recognition of need has attracted a flood of putative suppliers so we can ask more of them. “Can you provide the later requirement of 30-100 days duration (capacity divided by power), where most of the LDES money will be spent a decade from now? “Can your system perform short term storage better than today’s incumbent taking the orders – lithium-ion batteries?” That could mean one capability serves almost all need for large stationary storage. Contemplate massive storage facilities with enough to do both LDES and short-term storage as required through their 50-100 years life.

Different needs, same solution?

Short term stationary storage is essentially about responding to demand through the day. LDES is almost entirely about compensating for chronic intermittency of wind and solar supply at night, during still, dark days right up to compensating for the fact that it is one fifth as powerful in winter where many of us live. Seasonal is not the big one though. Competitively meeting the emerging peak demand at a specification of 30-100 hours is extremely important, where most of the money will be spent ten years from now. Many developers will fall at that hurdle but have a window of opportunity in the meantime.

Benchmark gravity storage

Pumped hydro is the benchmark. Commonly specified for up to 20 days duration it can easily achieve seasonal storage with no fade and minimal leakage, particularly if solar panels float on the water. It responds in seconds. The only reason it does not serve most present and future needs is the geological timescales of certification and erection and the small number of acceptable sites.

Follow its derivatives

Gravity storage lifting blocks is like lifting the weight in your grandfather clock once a week. Response in seconds, no fade or leakage and entirely benign materials are offered. When ready, Energy Vault, lifting blocks, promises 2-18 hours duration– short term and LDES in one facility and 35-year life with good 80% efficiency for all that cycling. Its first facility is being built in China, a country installing 800GWh of storage by 2030 to support over a terawatt of wind and solar. The Energy Vault order is a 25 MW, 100MWh system for only 4-hour duration to reflect an immediate need. However, Zhar Research sees no physical or financial reason why it could not achieve even seasonal storage with no leakage or fade. Will levelised cost of storage LCOS and reliability be acceptable?

In the US, the giant IEA Infrastructure Construction has proven expertise in heavy civil, energy and infrastructure schemes. It has recently partnered with UK Gravitricity to commercialise their version also going into an abandoned mine in Europe.

Air storage

Liquid air LAES and compressed air energy CAES storage have excellent environmental credentials and are among the leaders in the acid test of orderbooks. 60% to 65% efficiency beats hydrogen hands down. It does not beat batteries but unlike them, it is very scalable (less expensive) in size.

Dr Peter Harrop, CEO of Zhar Research advises, 

“The two forms of air storage are complementary with compressed air thriving where you can create or find suitable underground caverns and preferably scale to GWh levels. In our assessment, it could cover almost all of duration times required as they lengthen to 100 days over the coming two decades. Those locations amount to 50% of the world according to the company but that is like pumped hydro enthusiasts claiming an almost unlimited number of potential sites. Lack of approvals and acceptable economics can hugely dismantle such choices of location. Nonetheless, Hydrostor’s A-CAES technology can provide the same megawatts and megawatt-hours as pumped hydro power while using up to 10 times less land and up to 20 times less water. Very compelling.”

Up to seasonal, or even for 30-100 days peak demand, is not currently contemplated for air storage: they are too busy lower down– even production limited in China and North America. Liquid air is good in most sites unavailable to CAES and at smaller scale, being simple, familiar engineering above ground. Zhar Research believes that it can be viable even with the 100MW-level microgrids serving data centers, desalination plants and so on – a rapidly growing demand. Safe and clean, it could even be in a city near you. However, liquid air probably fails to compete at longer durations, say over 20 days, where compressed air may still be competitive. Half-way house is compressed liquid carbon dioxide. These companies could merge and offer “one stop shopping” with cost benefits to the customer from global reach and merged R&D.

Iron air awash with money

Iron air batteries have massive investment. Form Energy has raised more than $800 million for an iron-air battery that it says can store 100 hours of energy at system costs that are competitive with conventional power plants. Does that mean competitive with other LCOS? A disadvantage of conventional iron-air batteries: they have an efficiency of less than 50 percent so at the shorter duration end, the large amount of cycling could make them uneconomic. This is partly due to hydrogen evolution at the iron electrode (another issue in earlier forms) and partly to the high overvoltage at the air electrode. Form Energy’s first battery manufacturing facility is set for Weirton, West Virginia, with finished batteries expected in 2024. Chemical and redox battery storage are also in the frame.

Lithium has bigger fish to fry

Lithium-ion battery suppliers will care little about all of this. Stationary storage never goes above about 8% of sales of such batteries by value market and the winning LDES technologies are no threat to the space-constrained market for solar power batteries in buildings – a stationary storage business that is taking off in a big way. In this, they can be threatened by cheaper alternatives such as sodium-ion batteries now arriving in electric cars but that, as they say, is another story. The Zhar Research report, “Long Duration Energy Storage LDES Markets 2023-2043: Grid Microgrid Delayed Electricity 6 Hours to Seasonal” provides the latest answers, forecasts and roadmaps. Your multi-billion-dollar new business awaits.

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Brazil’s Ambitious Plan to End Deforestation by 2030

Brazil aims to halt deforestation by 2030, setting a precedent in global climate efforts.

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Brazil's Ambitious Plan to End Deforestation by 2030

Brazil’s recent announcement to halt deforestation by 2030 marks a critical juncture in the nation’s environmental policy. This plan, revealed on November 3, 2026, underscores Brazil’s commitment to addressing climate change on a global scale. The government’s initiative is part of a larger framework aimed at significantly reducing carbon emissions while safeguarding the Amazon rainforest, one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.

Central to Brazil’s strategy is collaboration with international partners, a move that reflects the global dimensions of environmental challenges. By integrating efforts with other nations, Brazil seeks to leverage expertise, technology, and funding to enhance the effectiveness of its deforestation plan. This cooperative approach not only enhances the plan’s feasibility but also positions Brazil as a leader in environmental diplomacy.

The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” is a focal point of this initiative. The plan includes targeted measures to protect and preserve this crucial biome, which plays a significant role in global carbon sequestration. Protecting the Amazon is essential not only for Brazil but for the planet, as it contributes to stabilizing the global climate.

Brazil’s government has made it clear that reducing carbon emissions is a top priority. This aligns with international climate agreements and reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to mitigate the impacts of climate change. By adopting stringent measures to curb deforestation, Brazil aims to set an example for other nations, demonstrating that economic development can coexist with environmental stewardship.

The plan is not merely a domestic policy but is being touted as a model for other countries facing similar environmental challenges. By providing a blueprint for sustainable development, Brazil’s initiative could inspire widespread adoption of deforestation curbing practices. This could lead to a more coordinated global effort to combat climate change.

While the ambitious nature of Brazil’s plan is commendable, its success will depend on effective implementation and enforcement. The government’s ability to translate policy into practice will be a critical factor in achieving its 2030 deforestation goals. This will require robust monitoring systems, transparent reporting, and accountability measures to ensure compliance.

The international community’s response to Brazil’s plan has been cautiously optimistic. While many applaud the country’s proactive stance, there is a collective understanding that ongoing support and collaboration are crucial. International partners and stakeholders will play a pivotal role in providing the necessary resources and expertise to help Brazil meet its objectives.

As Brazil moves forward with its deforestation plan, the world will be watching closely. The success of this initiative could have far-reaching implications for global climate policy. If Brazil achieves its goal, it will not only transform its own environmental landscape but also reinforce the viability of ambitious climate targets worldwide.

The coming years will be telling as Brazil implements its deforestation plan. The next significant milestone will be the development of detailed action plans and the establishment of partnerships essential for the plan’s success. All eyes will be on Brazil as it strives to fulfill its 2030 commitment, with the potential to reshape global environmental strategies.

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Green Climate Fund’s $140 Million Boost for African Green Hydrogen

Green Climate Fund approves $140 million for green hydrogen projects in South Africa and Namibia, advancing renewable energy in Africa.

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Green Climate Fund's $140 Million Boost for African Green Hydrogen

On October 29, 2026, the Green Climate Fund (GCF) announced its approval of $140 million in funding for green hydrogen projects in South Africa and Namibia. This substantial investment underscores a pivotal move towards renewable energy development in Africa, as the continent grapples with the twin challenges of energy security and climate change. The funding is poised to catalyze the growth of green hydrogen, a clean energy source that is gaining traction as a viable pathway to decarbonization.

The GCF’s decision marks a strategic investment aimed at harnessing the region’s abundant renewable resources. Both South Africa and Namibia possess significant potential for solar and wind energy, essential for producing green hydrogen. By tapping into these resources, the projects aim to create a sustainable energy supply while reducing dependence on fossil fuels, aligning with broader global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Green hydrogen is increasingly recognized for its role in reducing carbon emissions. Unlike traditional hydrogen production methods that rely on natural gas, green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources. This process results in zero carbon emissions, making it an attractive option for industries seeking to lower their environmental footprint. The GCF’s investment reflects a growing confidence in green hydrogen’s potential to transform energy systems.

The projects in South Africa and Namibia are not just about reducing emissions; they also promise significant socio-economic benefits. By enhancing energy security, these initiatives can provide a reliable power supply, crucial for economic development. Additionally, the projects are expected to generate employment opportunities, contributing to regional economic growth. This dual focus on environmental and economic benefits positions the projects as models of sustainable development.

The timing of the GCF’s announcement coincides with increased global interest in renewable energy investments. As countries around the world strive to meet their climate targets, Africa’s renewable energy potential is coming into sharper focus. The $140 million infusion from the GCF sends a strong signal to other investors about the continent’s viability as a hub for clean energy innovation.

Fuel Cells Works highlights the broader implications of such investments, noting that green hydrogen could play a critical role in Africa’s energy transition. By leveraging the continent’s vast renewable resources, green hydrogen projects can help bridge the gap between energy demand and supply, fostering a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

The GCF’s commitment to these projects aligns with its mission to support developing countries in their climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. By targeting Africa, the Fund is addressing a critical need for investment in regions that are disproportionately affected by climate change yet have contributed the least to its causes. This reflects a shift towards more equitable climate action.

As the projects move forward, they will be closely watched for their impact on local communities and the environment. Success in South Africa and Namibia could pave the way for similar initiatives across the continent, establishing a blueprint for green hydrogen development in other regions. The outcome of these projects will likely influence future funding decisions and policy frameworks related to renewable energy.

In the coming months, stakeholders will be keenly observing the implementation phases, looking for tangible outcomes that demonstrate the viability and scalability of green hydrogen as a cornerstone of Africa’s renewable energy strategy. The GCF’s investment sets a precedent that could drive further commitments from international donors and private sector players eager to support Africa’s clean energy ambitions.

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Scotland’s Rewilding Revolution: Ecological Benefits and Global Influence

Scotland’s rewilding initiatives are transforming landscapes and ecosystems, offering ecological benefits and inspiring global conservation efforts. Explore the impact and future prospects of this bold environmental strategy.

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In the misty highlands of Scotland, a quiet revolution is taking place. Rewilding, a concept that aims to restore ecosystems to their natural state, has been gaining momentum, transforming vast areas into thriving habitats. This ambitious movement is not only reshaping the Scottish landscape but also providing significant ecological benefits that echo far beyond its borders.

Central to the rewilding efforts are projects like the Cairngorms Connect and Trees for Life, which focus on restoring native forests and reintroducing keystone species such as the Eurasian lynx and beavers. These initiatives aim to enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem services, and combat climate change by sequestering carbon in regenerating woodlands.

The ecological benefits are manifold. By reintroducing native species, these projects help restore natural processes and food webs, leading to healthier and more resilient ecosystems. The return of beavers, for instance, has been transformative; their dam-building activities create wetlands that support a myriad of plant and animal species, increase water retention, and reduce flood risks.

Moreover, rewilding contributes to soil restoration and enhances carbon capture. As diverse plant communities establish themselves, they improve soil structure and fertility, which in turn supports a broader range of wildlife. This natural regeneration process not only bolsters biodiversity but also plays a critical role in mitigating climate change.

However, the journey is not without its challenges. Critics argue that rewilding can conflict with traditional land uses, such as farming and grouse shooting, which are economically important to local communities. Balancing these interests requires careful negotiation and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure that rewilding projects are both ecologically and socially sustainable.

Looking ahead, Scotland’s rewilding initiatives hold immense potential to inspire similar efforts globally. By demonstrating the ecological and economic viability of rewilding, Scotland could galvanize international conservation strategies and contribute to global biodiversity targets.

As these wild landscapes continue to evolve, they offer a glimpse into a future where humans and nature coexist in harmony, each thriving in a supportively interconnected world. Scotland’s rewilding efforts may well be the blueprint for ecological restoration worldwide, as nations grapple with the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.

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