Category Archives: energy

climate change, energy, environment, infrastructure, international development

Bezos-backed coalition plans to invest $7.5B in renewable energy projects

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**Bezos-Backed Coalition Plans to Invest $7.5 Billion in Renewable Energy Projects**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 22, 2025*

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The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), a coalition focused on advancing renewable energy in developing countries, is set to invest approximately $7.5 billion over the next five years. This bold plan comes as the alliance seeks new philanthropic partners amid declining government aid from wealthier nations.

Launched during global climate talks in 2021, the GEAPP has assisted more than 30 countries in improving their electricity grids, establishing battery storage systems, and creating jobs in the green economy.

### Innovative Funding Approach

GEAPP employs a unique funding strategy that leverages free or low-cost capital from charitable and governmental sources to reduce investment risks. This approach aims to attract investments from multilateral development banks and private sector lenders. However, securing such investments has become increasingly challenging following the shift away from development aid and climate finance by the previous U.S. administration.

### Expanding Partnerships for a Greener Future

Founded by the IKEA Foundation, The Rockefeller Foundation, and the Bezos Earth Fund, GEAPP has expanded its network to include new partners such as the UK, Denmark, the World Bank, and private sector companies like GE Vernova. As world leaders convene at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, GEAPP CEO Woochong Um emphasized the alliance’s ongoing efforts to attract additional partners to support its mission.

### Plans for Scaled Development Models

Looking ahead to the upcoming global climate conference in Brazil this November, Um highlighted the urgent need for innovative models to enable large-scale sustainable development. He also announced plans for an “Energy and Opportunity Coalition” designed to integrate green energy solutions across sectors like agriculture and health.

The International Energy Agency has underscored the necessity of increasing clean energy investments in developing countries outside China by sixfold—to $1.6 trillion—by the early 2030s to meet global climate targets.

### Future Grids and Digital Mapping Initiatives

GEAPP aims to expand its “Grids of the Future” initiative, ensuring that power systems in emerging economies are renewable-ready, digitally intelligent, and financially sustainable. The alliance has already launched battery storage projects in over 20 countries, including India’s first utility-scale standalone battery system.

In Jaipur, GEAPP is developing a live digital map of 6.5 million utility assets, enabling early detection of potential issues before they result in outages.

### Ambitious Impact Goals for 2026-2030

During its initial five-year plan, GEAPP mobilized $7.8 billion in financing—enabling improved energy access for nearly 240 million people and cutting carbon emissions by 952 million metric tons.

For the 2026-2030 period, Um stated that the alliance aims to raise at least $500 million in philanthropic capital, which it plans to leverage roughly 15 times to unlock the $7.5 billion investment target for renewable energy projects in developing nations.

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GEAPP’s continued efforts represent a critical step toward advancing clean energy and sustainable development worldwide, especially in the most vulnerable regions.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/geapp-to-invest-7-5b-in-renewable-energy-projects/story

energy, environment, industry, renewable energy, technology

Turning Frozen Tuna Into a New Energy-Saving Business

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This initiative is attracting attention for its potential to work in tandem with demand response programs, which are viewed as key to a renewable energy era.

Demand response refers to a system in which electricity users adjust their power usage in response to supply conditions, helping balance the grid when renewable sources such as solar and wind fluctuate.

In this trial, frozen tuna act like an ice pack within the storage facility. Even when the refrigeration system is briefly stopped, the interior temperature remains stable thanks to the thermal mass of the fish.

By lowering consumption during peak times, operators can effectively sell their adjustment power to the market and receive compensation in return. Industry experts say this model could open the door to a new business opportunity in energy conservation.

If implemented on a larger scale, warehouses and food processors storing frozen products could become participants in the power market—not only saving energy but also generating revenue.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146964.php

energy, exploration, geology, oil and gas, policy

ONGC, OIL eye ₹3,200cr stratigraphic drilling campaign: What is it?

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**ONGC and OIL Launch ₹3,200 Crore Stratigraphic Drilling Campaign in Untapped Offshore Basins**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | September 21, 2025 | 6:23 PM*

State-run oil explorers Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Limited (OIL) are preparing to undertake a major stratigraphic drilling campaign valued at ₹3,200 crore. Scheduled to commence early next year, the project targets untapped offshore areas to boost India’s hydrocarbon exploration efforts.

### First Phase: Drilling in Four Key Basins

The initial phase of the campaign will involve drilling four wells across prominent sedimentary basins — Andaman, Mahanadi, Saurashtra, and Bengal. These regions hold significant promise for undiscovered oil and gas resources and are currently underexplored.

### What Is Stratigraphic Drilling?

Stratigraphic drilling, also known as a stratigraphic test well, is an exploratory technique used to analyze underground geological formations. Unlike conventional drilling that seeks immediate resource extraction, this method focuses on building detailed geological profiles. This data is crucial for making informed decisions on future hydrocarbon exploration.

Global energy major BP will extend its technical expertise to ONGC and OIL by helping identify optimal drilling locations and supporting the drilling operations.

### Financial Backing and Government Support

The Indian government has pledged to fully fund this strategic drilling campaign. The ₹3,200 crore budget includes payments to BP for their technical services, reflecting strong governmental commitment to enhancing domestic energy capabilities.

### Importance for India’s Energy Security

India is heavily reliant on oil and gas imports, with nearly 88% of its oil consumption and about half its natural gas demand met through imports. This dependence costs the country approximately $150 billion annually.

In an effort to reduce this import bill and achieve greater energy self-sufficiency, the government has taken significant steps, including slashing ‘no-go’ zones by 99%. This policy shift has unlocked over one million square kilometers of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for oil and gas exploration.

### Enhancing Exploration Potential

Further bolstering India’s exploration drive, a Data Center was launched in 2022 at the University of Houston to showcase sedimentary basin data. Additionally, the National Data Repository (NDR) has been upgraded to a cloud-based platform for better data accessibility.

Global energy giants such as ExxonMobil and Chevron have acquired Indian basin data, signaling increased international confidence in India’s vast exploration potential.

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This stratigraphic drilling campaign by ONGC and OIL marks a significant step toward India’s goal of enhancing domestic hydrocarbon production and strengthening its energy security in the coming years.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/ongongc-oil-to-begin-deep-sea-stratigraphic-drilling-in-early-2026c/story

energy, environment, government, infrastructure, politics

PM Modi Inaugurates Mumbai Cruise Terminal, Deendayal Port Facilities And Multiple Green Energy Projects

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Bhavnagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over Rs 34,200 crore at the ‘Samudra se Samriddhi’ event in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar.

As part of the maritime sector initiatives, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for projects worth over Rs 7,870 crore, including the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal at Indira Dock. He also laid the foundation stone of a new container terminal and associated facilities at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata; new container berth, cargo handling facilities, and associated developments at Paradip Port; the Tuna Tekra Multi-Cargo Terminal; firefighting facilities and modern road connectivity at Kamarajar Port, Ennore; coastal protection works including sea-walls and revetments at Chennai Port; sea-wall construction at Car Nicobar Island; a multi-purpose cargo berth and Green Bio-Methanol Plant at Deendayal Port, Kandla; and ship repair facilities at Patna and Varanasi.

In line with his commitment to holistic and sustainable development, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple projects worth over Rs 26,354 crore, jointly undertaken by the central and state governments, catering to various sectors in Gujarat.

He inaugurated the HPLNG Regasification Terminal at Chhara Port, the Acrylics & Oxo Alcohol Project at Gujarat IOCL Refinery, the 600 MW Green Shoe Initiative, the PM-KUSUM 475 MW Component C solar feeder for farmers, the 45 MW Badeli Solar PV Project, and the complete solarisation of Dhordo village, among others.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation for LNG infrastructure, additional renewable energy projects, coastal protection works, highways, and healthcare and urban transport projects. These include expansions at Sir T. General Hospital in Bhavnagar, Guru Govind Sinh Government Hospital at Jamnagar, and the four-laning of 70 km of national highways.

During the event, the Prime Minister was felicitated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Earlier in the day, he inspected an exhibition organized as part of ‘Samudra se Samriddhi’ and held a roadshow in Bhavnagar.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/pm-modi-inaugurates-mumbai-cruise-terminal-deendayal-port-facilities-and-multiple-green-energy-projects

energy, government, policy, technology, urban development

Indore’s Smart Metering Will Shine From Kashmir To Kerala

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**Indore’s Smart Meter Initiative Draws Delegation from Eight States**

Indore, Madhya Pradesh — Renowned for its exemplary cleanliness, Indore has once again set an example, this time in the field of smart metering. A team of 14 engineers from 11 power supply companies across eight states recently visited the Smart Meter Master Control Centre at Polo Ground to learn about Indore’s smart metering operations.

The delegation included representatives from Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Haryana, Bihar, and Jammu & Kashmir. The visit was organised in collaboration with the Power Finance Corporation and IIM Indore, highlighting the importance of knowledge sharing in the power distribution sector.

During their visit, the delegates received a detailed briefing on Indore’s eight years of experience with smart metering. They participated in interactive Q&A sessions and toured the meter laboratory, where they observed firsthand how smart meters can be remotely disconnected and reconnected—a feature that enhances operational efficiency and customer service.

Anup Kumar Singh, Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Paschim Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company (West Discom), emphasized the project’s efficient execution. He noted that sharing this expertise with other power distribution companies nationwide is a key goal of the initiative.

The visiting engineers expressed their appreciation for Indore’s accomplishments in smart metering. They affirmed that the insights gained during the visit would be invaluable for implementing similar systems in their respective states and power companies.

Indore’s success story continues to inspire innovation and collaboration across India’s power sector.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indores-smart-metering-will-shine-from-kashmir-to-kerala

energy, environment, household, sustainability, technology

How to save money with LED bulbs

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**How to Save Money with LED Bulbs**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 18, 2025, 05:15 PM*

LED bulbs are becoming increasingly popular as an energy-efficient lighting solution. They consume less power and last longer than traditional bulbs, making them a cost-effective choice for households and businesses alike. By optimizing the use of LED bulbs, you can significantly reduce your electricity bills while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Here are some practical ways to maximize savings with LED bulbs:

### 1. Choose the Right Wattage

Selecting the appropriate wattage is crucial for maximizing savings. LED bulbs are available in various wattages, typically ranging from 5 to 15 watts, depending on the brightness required. While lower wattage saves energy, it’s important to ensure the bulb provides sufficient light for the intended space.

Using a wattage calculator can help determine the optimal power consumption based on the lumens needed, ensuring you get the perfect balance between brightness and energy efficiency.

### 2. Utilize Smart Lighting Systems

Integrating smart lighting systems with LED bulbs can further enhance energy efficiency. Many smart systems offer scheduling features that automatically adjust brightness levels throughout the day, ensuring lights are only used when necessary. This helps avoid unnecessary energy consumption and adds convenience to managing your home or office lighting.

### 3. Take Advantage of Rebates and Incentives

Many governments and utility companies offer rebates or incentives for switching to energy-efficient lighting solutions like LED bulbs. These programs can significantly reduce initial costs by providing financial assistance or discounts on purchases.

Before buying new bulbs, it’s worth researching available incentives in your area, as these savings can add up quickly and make the switch even more affordable.

### 4. Regular Maintenance of Fixtures

Keeping light fixtures clean and well-maintained is essential for maximizing the efficiency of LED bulbs. Dusty or dirty fixtures can block light output by up to 20%, which may prompt you to use brighter bulbs than necessary.

Regularly cleaning fixtures improves illumination and prolongs bulb life by preventing overheating caused by dust accumulation.

### 5. Educate Household Members on Usage Habits

Educating everyone in your home about proper usage habits can make a significant difference in saving energy with LED technology. Simple practices such as switching off unnecessary lights when leaving a room or utilizing natural daylight during daytime hours go a long way.

These habits not only reduce energy consumption but also help prolong the life of your LED bulbs.

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By following these tips, you can enjoy the many benefits of LED lighting—lower electricity bills, reduced environmental impact, and long-lasting illumination. Start making the switch today and watch your savings grow!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-to-save-money-with-led-bulbs/story

business, energy, finance

KPI Green Energy Lists India’s First Externally Credit-Enhanced Green Bond Worth ₹670 Crore

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New Delhi: Gujarat-based renewable energy developer and operator KPI Green Energy on Thursday announced the successful listing of its inaugural green bond worth Rs 670 crore on the National Stock Exchange of India.

This marks a significant advancement for sustainable finance in India’s renewable sector, a company statement said.

The five-year bond carries an annual coupon rate of 8.50 per cent with a quarterly amortisation profile. It is supported by a 65 per cent partial guarantee from GuarantCo, part of the Private Infrastructure Development Group, which is funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Australia, Sweden, Netherlands, Canada, and France. GuarantCo holds a credit rating of AA- by Fitch and A1 by Moody’s.

Thanks to this external credit enhancement, the bond has received an AA+(CE) rating from both CRISIL and ICRA, broadening the investor base to include long-term domestic institutions such as infrastructure funds, mutual funds, and insurance companies.

The proceeds from the bond will be used to expand KPI Green Energy’s solar, wind, and hybrid project portfolio across India. The new projects are expected to supply clean electricity to approximately 210,000 people and businesses annually while reducing over 344,000 tonnes of carbon emissions every year.

This initiative not only accelerates India’s clean energy transition but also mobilises Rs 670 crore of domestic institutional investment beyond conventional banking sources.

KPI Green Energy has already developed 1 GW of renewable capacity and is actively working towards its target of 10 GW by 2030. With a sustained project pipeline exceeding 3 GW, the company stands among the country’s frontrunners in renewable energy expansion.

This transaction establishes a precedent for Indian corporates seeking sustainable capital through innovative credit enhancement mechanisms. It also highlights the growing appetite among domestic investors for responsible financial products.

Furthermore, it positions KPI Green Energy to access new pools of liquidity and prepares the company for future fundraising activities in both domestic and international green finance markets.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/kpi-green-energy-lists-indias-first-externally-credit-enhanced-green-bond-worth-670-crore