Distributed Generation | Page 7

Direct Energy announced Oct. 29 a new endeavor to focus on renewable and sustainable energy solutions for customers through the creation of a specialized group, Renewable Energy Services.

Carnival Corporation & plc will become the first in the cruise industry to trial fuel cells on a large passenger vessel through its German-based brand, AIDA Cruises, in a project expected to set sail as early as 2021.

Occidental Petroleum Corp announced Oct. 3 the completion of their first solar facility to directly power its oil and gas operations in addition to signing a long-term PPA for 109 MW of solar energy beginning in 2021.

Contra Costa County, Calif., will be deploying a total of 3.7 MW in solar systems at 10 locations across the country and expects the project to offset approximately 68% grid electricity.

The SoNo Collection, a 700,000 sq ft upscale retail center currently being built in Norwalk, Conn. by Brookfield Properties, will be the first to feature free public access to fast-charge EV stations. The retail center will offer a total of 12 chargers, including a mix of these Level 3 fast-chargers along with Volta's Level 2 chargers.

A solar project planned for the rooftop of the Javits Center was approved for the addition of a 2 MW battery storage system, which will allow the center to support the overall state power grid through demand response and other energy optimizing programs.

Emissions-optimized charging for electric vehicles might improve even further their positive environmental impact, according to a report released by environmental tech nonprofit WattTime on September 10.

The Michigan state legislature on June 26 introduced a bill that would allow for electric vehicle charging stations to be installed on state parks and park-and-ride lots.

Toyota announced May 23 plans to use blockchain for a prosumer electricity trading test to explore electricity trading among individuals and business who store excess power from solar panels in batteries and electrified vehicles.

A "new energy" subsidiary of the Shell Group announced an initiative to install public DC fast charging stations in Ohio at a local taxi depot facility and along heavily trafficked areas.