Covestro awarded by ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) PLUS certification for its facility in South Deerfield, Massachusetts, USA.

The site specializes in producing high-performance specialty films that serve a wide array of applications, especially in critical market segments like healthcare and mobility.

The certification reinforces Covestro’s commitment to sustainability across its global operations, following similar certifications achieved at the company’s polycarbonate compounding facility in Newark, Ohio, and its significant Baytown, Texas site—Covestro’s third-largest facility worldwide.

Advancing Sustainability

Covestro’s Head of Specialty Films North America, Sam Shodi, highlighted the growing emphasis on sustainability in the healthcare sector, noting that healthcare manufacturers are increasingly seeking sustainable materials to lessen their carbon footprint.

Shodi stated, “Our goal is to help customers achieve their sustainability ambitions,”.

Covestro’s Makrofol® polycarbonate film, a flagship product, exemplifies this commitment. With its essential properties like transparency, toughness, and sterilization suitability, it is an ideal choice for medical applications, including the packaging of medical implants.

“This advancement supports our healthcare customers in their sustainability efforts without compromising quality or safety standards,” Shodi added.

Mass Balance Approach

To meet environmental goals, Covestro employs a mass balance approach in its ISCC PLUS certified products.

This approach integrates bio-based or recycled raw materials early in the production process. These materials are then mathematically allocated to the finished products.

As a result, fossil raw material consumption decreases, and CO2 emissions reduce without sacrificing product quality.

Importantly, this drop-in solution allows manufacturers to maintain their proven formulations, equipment, and processes. This ensures that sustainability goals do not disrupt operational efficiency.

Globally Recognized Certification

The ISCC certification, acknowledged worldwide, verifies sustainability for biomass and bioenergy. Covering all stages of the value chain, it is a trusted standard for environmentally responsible practices.

Covestro’s South Deerfield site joins other ISCC PLUS facilities awarded to Covestro around the world. These include major sites in Baytown, Texas; Leverkusen, Dormagen, and Krefeld-Uerdingen, Germany; Shanghai, China; Map Ta Phut, Thailand; and Antwerp, Belgium.

As reported by the press release, Covestro’s extensive certification network positions it as a leader in sustainable material production globally. Its specialty film solutions are designed to meet the needs of customers committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Clariant expansion of its storage facilities in Scandinavia to boost the use of recycled mono propylene glycol (MPG) in its aircraft deicing solutions.

Clariant Expansion includes two newly installed storage tanks and a truck unloading station at its Uddevalla facility in Sweden, designed to increase capacity and streamline the handling of recycled MPG.

Supporting Sustainability

Since 2023, Clariant’s Uddevalla facility has utilized significant amounts of recycled MPG in its Type I deicing products.

This shift offers customers high-performance deicing fluids with a carbon footprint reduced by more than 25% on average, compared to products made from virgin, fossil-based MPG.

Increasing the use of recycled materials will help Clariant reduce Scope 3 emissions, aligning with its sustainability goals.

Servicing the Nordic and Baltic Markets

The Uddevalla plant serves airports, airlines, and service providers throughout the Nordic and Baltic regions. By adding storage capacity, Clariant can improve operational efficiency and further its sustainable value creation, supporting the company’s commitment to circular economy practices.

“The expanded storage and handling capacity in Uddevalla allows us to capture and reuse more recycled propylene glycol,” said Sven Dammann, Clariant’s Head of Aviation EMEA. “This reduces waste and the need for virgin fossil-based materials.”

“This investment underscores our commitment to increasing the sustainability of our portfolio through innovative recycling solutions.”

Closing the Loop

Clariant collects run-off material from airport deicing operations to kickstart the recycling process. For example, the company pre-concentrates collected deicing runoff at its facility in Oslo to around 50-60% glycol.

The partner then processes the concentrate into industrial-grade glycol. Clariant transports this recycled glycol to Uddevalla, where it is proportionately used in producing SAFEWING™ Type I deicing fluids.

As per the press release, the closed-loop recycling approach minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency, furthering Clariant’s sustainable development initiatives.

SABIC, a global chemicals company, launched its new ULTEM™ resin plant in Singapore, marking a significant step forward in the company’s growth in Asia.

The advanced facility, valued at $170 million, is SABIC’s first specialty chemical manufacturing site in the region. It aims to meet the rising demand for high-performance ULTEM™ resin, a versatile thermoplastic used across high-tech and manufacturing sectors.

Supporting Global Demand

The facility aligns with SABIC’s strategic objective to expand its global ULTEM specialty resin production by over 50%.

This expansion directly addresses the growing needs of high-tech and manufacturing industries in Asia-Pacific. Demand is rapidly increasing, especially in markets like Japan and China.

Strengthening Local Supply Chains

Backed by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), SABIC’s new facility underscores the company’s dedication. It aims to secure a local, reliable supply of high-performance materials.

By enhancing local manufacturing capabilities, SABIC aims to support complex and dynamic supply chains within the region.

Role as a Strategic Hub

Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) noted, “The opening of SABIC’s new facility underscores Singapore’s role as a gateway to Asia and a leading hub for the chemicals industry.”

Advancing High-Tech Production

SABIC’s CEO, Eng. Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh stated, “We’re excited to leverage SABIC’s advanced manufacturing capabilities to produce one of the world’s most advanced plastics in Singapore. The ULTEM resin facility reflects our long-term commitment to the region’s high-tech economies and advanced manufacturing sectors, supporting the growth of advanced applications.”

He added that Singapore’s extensive trade agreements further enhance SABIC’s competitive edge in reaching regional markets.

Boosting  Chemicals Sector

Lim Wey Len, Executive Vice President of the EDB, mentioned, “The opening of SABIC’s new ULTEM plant reflects its confidence in Singapore as a hub. It aims to capture the growing demand for high-performance specialty chemicals in Asia. We continue to welcome like-minded partners like SABIC to invest in our talent and capabilities here in Singapore. This will help create cutting-edge material solutions for the world.”

As mentioned in the press release, SABIC is poised to contribute to the growth of Asia’s advanced manufacturing and high-tech industries with this facility. It will further establish Singapore as a key player in global specialty chemicals production.

The government through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), has issued a Call for Proposals (CfP) to establish Centres of Excellence (CoE) focused on Green Hydrogen Mission.

This move, a part of the government’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, seeks to stimulate innovation in sustainable energy and accelerate the country’s shift toward energy self-sufficiency.

Driving Green Hydrogen Innovation

The proposed Centres of Excellence will become hubs of cutting-edge research and skill development.

These centers aim to advance India’s capabilities in Green Hydrogen production, storage, and utilization—key components for achieving a low-carbon, sustainable future.

National Green Hydrogen Mission

India launched its National Green Hydrogen Mission on January 4, 2023, with an ambitious budget of Rs. 19,744 crores allocated through the financial year 2029-30.

This mission reflects India’s vision of achieving self-reliant India in clean energy, with the goal of reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuel imports and positioning India as a leader in Green Hydrogen technology.

Key Role

The CoE will play a vital role in the mission’s success. They are expected to foster a collaborative environment. This will bring together government bodies, research institutions, and public and private sector partners.

Through these partnerships, the CoEs will support advancements in green hydrogen research and technology. This reinforces India’s global standing in the clean energy sector.

Funding and Guidelines

The government has allocated Rs. 100 crore specifically for setting up these CoEs under its Research and Development (R&D) Scheme.

Detailed guidelines for this scheme were issued in March 2024, outlining criteria and expectations for the centers.

Low-Carbon Future

The national hydrogen mission represents a significant step toward reducing India’s carbon footprint and fostering clean energy innovation.

As reported by krishijagran.com, India is supporting research and development in green hydrogen. This paves the way for a sustainable, energy-independent future.

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has awarded a major engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract to Jereh Oil & Gas Engineering Corporation.

Valued at up to $920 million, the contract aims to extend AI-driven well digitalization program across key onshore fields including Bab, Bu Hasa, and Southeast.

Extending AI-Powered Operations

The EPC contract, awarded by ADNOC Onshore, will enable the installation of advanced remote sensing and well-operating equipment in the targeted fields.

This expansion is part of ADNOC’s broader initiative to increase the deployment of artificial intelligence and digital technologies across its operations.

By 2027, ADNOC’s well digitalization program plans to remotely monitor and control over 2,000 wells, optimizing well performance and enhancing safety through real-time data and AI capabilities.

Through In-Country Value

The contract aligns with ADNOC’s In-Country Value (ICV) program, which aims to drive economic growth within the UAE.

More than 80% of the contract’s value will be reinvested locally, supporting job creation and private-sector opportunities.

This initiative underscores ADNOC’s commitment to economic diversification and sustainable development in the UAE.

Operational Efficiency and Safety

With the digitalization initiative, ADNOC is set to improve operational efficiency and safety by minimizing downtime and maximizing well performance.

The program employs AI-powered tools that allow operators to monitor well conditions remotely, adjusting parameters in real-time to ensure optimal output.

Abdulmunim Saif Al Kindy, ADNOC Upstream Executive Director said, “This award will accelerate our well digitalization program and automation efforts, supporting our goal to become the world’s most AI-enabled energy company. The substantial in-country value generated by this award will further catalyze industrial growth opportunities for the private sector”.

Expanding Digitalization

ADNOC has implemented its well digitalization program in onshore fields, including Mender, Qusahwira, and Northeast Bab (NEB). NEB is ADNOC’s first ‘smart field,’ established in 2006.

The program integrates advanced control valves, instrumentation, and sensors within the wells and pipelines.

This equipment collects and relays real-time operational data, including temperature and pressure, to ADNOC’s control centers.

Leveraging 5G

In partnership with e&, ADNOC is building the largest private 5G network in the energy sector. This will ensure seamless data transfer from field sensors to control rooms.

This network will power AI-enabled tools, including AIQ’s RoboWell solution. RoboWell autonomously manages well functions in real time, enhancing responsiveness and operational control.

Commitment to Technology

The contract with Jereh Oil & Gas is a major step in ADNOC’s vision. It aims to leverage AI and advanced technology for a smarter, more sustainable energy sector.

As reported in the press release, ADNOC is reinforcing the UAE’s economy through the ICV program. By pursuing cutting-edge digitalization, ADNOC is setting a benchmark for the future of energy operations.

India’s Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) sector is primed for rapid expansion with funding opportunities projected to reach ₹3.5 lakh crore by FY32.

SBI Capital Markets estimates that capital expenditures in battery cell manufacturing will fuel an additional ₹80,000 crore in investments in the near term.

This momentum is expected to drive the development of both project-level and upstreaming investments consequently. Ultimately it will make India a global hotspot for BESS innovation and deployment.

Supportive Agreements and Risk Mitigation Strategies

Strong Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) and Power Sale Agreements (PSA) with credible distribution companies (Discoms) underpin the growth in India’s Battery Energy (BESS).

Tailored project models and, furthermore, advanced cell technologies are also central to this expansion.

Competitive tariffs effectively manage risks such as battery price declines and the shift to higher-capacity batteries. Additionally, Discoms’ current Energy Storage Obligation (ESO) and Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) goals, aligned with project lifespans in existing PPAs, further mitigate these risks.

Manufacturing Surge and Capital Expenditure

Battery manufacturing is expected to drive substantial capital expenditure as both established and emerging players ramp up their production capabilities.

Technological advancements are spurring mergers and acquisitions for creating valuable opportunities for companies aiming to scale up their operations in the energy storage space.

Variable Renewable Energy

India’s push toward a Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) future is forecasted to triple VRE’s share in electricity generation by FY32.

The country expects its growth in storage capacity twelvefold to reach 60 GW by FY32.

They project renewable energy tenders to incorporate storage at a significantly higher proportion, increasing from 5% in FY20 to 23% in FY24.

Dominance of BESS

BESS and pumped storage projects (PSP) are on track to dominate nearly 100% of the energy storage market.

BESS will lead in flexibility and efficiency, while PSP will crucially aid in peak shaving and grid stabilization.

PSP offers longer operational lifespans, low operating costs and minimal e-waste impact, making it a valuable complement to BESS.

By FY32, they expect BESS capacity to reach 47 GW, with PSP capacity projected to quadruple to 19 GW.

Focus on Reducing BESS Tariffs

Reducing BESS tariffs hinges on domestic battery cell manufacturing and a reliable component supply chain.

At present, battery cells and components account for 80% of BESS costs with most cell production concentrated in China.

To address this dependency, the Indian government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Advanced Cell Chemistry. Additionally, It aims to establish 55 GWh of new capacity.

Key players in the sector have already announced plans for nearly 120 GWh and expect to meet this demand over the next several years.

Future Outlook

With robust policy support, advanced manufacturing, and rising investments, India is positioning its BESS ecosystem to meet the country’s renewable energy storage demands. It supports its transition to a low-carbon economy.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the sector’s growth could have a transformative impact. India’s energy landscape setting a new standard for energy resilience and sustainability.

BASF and Exterra Carbon Solutions (Exterra) have entered a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

BASF and Exterra Partnernership to explore the deployment of a commercial-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) project in Quebec, Canada.

The International Energy Agency states that this collaboration aims to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries like cement, steel, gas-to-power, and waste-to-energy. It will together contribute nearly 20% of global CO2 emissions. Consequently, these efforts are crucial for addressing a significant portion of global emissions and advancing climate goals.

Combining Expertise

The partnership will combine BASF’s OASE® gas treatment technology with Exterra’s Reactive Oxide to Carbonate System (ROC) to create an integrated carbon storage solution.

Together, the companies will target the reduction of CO2 emissions and contribute to Quebec’s ambitious decarbonization goals.

This partnership aims to make a significant environmental impact by improving the quality of air and reducing industrial carbon footprints.

Gas Treatment and CO2 Capture

BASF will leverage its OASE® blue technology to efficiently capture CO2 from industrial processes. This technology will ensure that the extracted CO2 is ready for immediate mineralization.

BASF’s gas treatment solutions will lay the foundation for robust carbon capture infrastructure, enabling large-scale emissions reduction.

Carbon Mineralization and Permanent Storage

Exterra will complement BASF’s gas treatment technology by offering ex-situ carbon mineralization services.

This process ensures that the captured CO2 is permanently stored in a stable, mineralized form, without the risk of leakage or reversal.

Exterra’s innovative ROC technology, powered by magnesium oxides with a low-carbon footprint, will enhance BASF’s gas treatment, transforming CO2 into a secure mineral.

High-Quality Carbon Credits

In addition to the CCS solutions, Exterra will generate high-quality carbon credits that are validated by third parties.

These credits will add extra value to participating industries, helping them meet environmental standards and improve their sustainability efforts.

Transparent, Scalable, and Safe

The partnership promises increased transparency and safety for all stakeholders, with a focus on rapid scalability.

The press release stated that BASF and Exterra’s combined expertise will drive carbon management innovation, providing industries a reliable, sustainable solution to reduce their carbon footprints.

Climate Action

“We are happy to collaborate with BASF. This partnership is a significant milestone for Exterra and marks our first collaboration with BASF,” said Olivier Dufresne, CEO and Co-Founder of Exterra.

Dufresne added, “Quebec is the perfect location for our first project, and together we will deliver scalable, effective carbon capture and storage solutions. Unlike other methods that bury CO2 underground, our surface-level sequestration technology offers a groundbreaking approach that’s both safe and sustainable.”

Sustainable Commitment

 “This partnership is a crucial step in BASF’s mission to create a sustainable future,” said Todd Spengeman, Business Director, Standard Amines and Gas Treatment at BASF North America.

Todd added, “By combining our advanced technologies and expertise, we are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in carbon management. This collaboration will allow us to deliver sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and our customers.”

Avina Clean Hydrogen to build a green hydrogen facility in the city of Vernon, ten miles from the Port of Long Beach, Southern California.

The green hydrogen project is a crucial milestone in Avina’s commitment to decarbonizing heavy-duty transportation and advancing California’s clean energy targets.

Production Goals

The state-of-the-art facility aims to produce up to four tons per day (tpd) of compressed green hydrogen through electrolysis.

Using clean electricity, this process splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, creating a sustainable hydrogen fuel source.

Once operational, Avina’s project will stand as one of the largest integrated hydrogen production and refuelling sites globally, offering essential infrastructure to replace diesel trucking with hydrogen-fueled alternatives.

Environmental Impact

Avina Clean Hydrogen estimates that the facility will help eliminate approximately 1,30,000 tons of CO₂ emissions each year.

The reduction will significantly improve air quality in nearby communities. It will also contribute towards California’s broader efforts to combat air pollution and climate change.

Location Advantage

Vishal Shah, Founder and CEO, Avina Clean Hydrogen said, “Our facility’s strategic location in Southern California allows us to serve critical transportation corridors and urban markets, helping meet the growing demand for clean hydrogen across the region”.

Collaboration

Avina has partnered with FASTECH, a company known for developing reliable clean energy infrastructure.

“This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to drive innovation in clean energy solutions, creating a more sustainable future for mobility customers,” said Dan McGill, President and Founder of FASTECH.

On Track

With essential environmental permits already approved, construction of the Avina Clean Hydrogen facility is set to begin soon.

As reported by energyglobal.com, the project is expected to start commercial operations by July 2025. It will mark a significant step toward a cleaner, hydrogen-powered future for California.

India’s renewable energy (RE) sector achieved impressive growth in October 2024, fuelled by a wave of new tenders and supportive policy measures aimed at expanding the nation’s green energy capacity.

Surge in Renewable Energy Tenders

In October alone, 16 new RE tenders were issued, totalling 11,098 MW.

This increase reflects India’s strong commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing its green energy infrastructure, as highlighted in the Market Intelligence report by JMK Research.

Key Players Driving Expansion

Major players in the RE sector played pivotal roles in this growth.

The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) floated a substantial 1,200 MW solar tender, linked to the Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) to facilitate power transfer across regions.

Meanwhile, in addition, the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) issued a notable 1,200 MW wind-solar hybrid tender, with an optional greenshoe capacity expansion of 600 MW.

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) further contributed to the sector’s growth by issuing bids for another 1,200 MW of round-the-clock renewable power through ISTS connections. This initiative aims to increase the reliability of green energy within the national grid.

Rise in Installed Renewable Energy Capacity

Between January and September 2024, India added 17,444 MW of new solar power and 2,626 MW of wind power.

This growth boosted the country’s cumulative RE capacity to 201.46 GW, laying a strong foundation for future developments in the sector.

In September alone, approximately 1,501 MW of new solar and wind capacity was installed, marking a substantial month-over-month increase.

Dynamic Auction Activity

October also saw, in addition, active RE auction activity, with 6,316 MW allocated to various developers.

This highlights India’s ongoing efforts to achieve a more sustainable energy mix and meet its renewable energy targets.

Increase in Investment

The RE sector attracted $103 million in fresh financing in October, thus providing essential capital for both current and future projects.

This investment underscores the sector’s appeal and the positive outlook for renewable energy in India.

Steady Demand

Market activity on the Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) remained stable in October, with 33.55 million units traded in the Green Term Ahead Market (GTAM). This steady trading volume indicates a strong demand for renewable energy across various sectors in India.

Pricing Trends

The report noted a slight decrease of 1.18% in domestic prices for Mono PERC modules, a popular photovoltaic module type.

This competitive pricing trend could improve project economics, potentially spurring further growth in the sector.

Robust Policy Support

Significant policy momentum accompanied the sector’s growth in October. The government issued a total of 22 new notifications, regulations, and orders, including 10 at the central level and 12 at the state level.

These actions demonstrate the government’s proactive stance in supporting the renewable energy sector. It ensures progress toward India’s ambitious renewable energy targets.

Outlook

India’s renewable energy sector is on a robust growth path. It is supported by strong policy frameworks, ongoing investment, and dynamic market activity.

As reported by knnindia.co.in, with increasing installed capacity, competitive pricing, and enhanced regulatory support. India is, as a result, well-positioned to achieve its clean energy objectives in the coming years.

Rajasthan government has introduced a series of forward-thinking policies and incentives aimed at revitalizing the state’s mining sector.

These initiatives will be prominently showcased at the ‘Rising Rajasthan’ Global Investment Summit 2024, scheduled for December 9-11 in Jaipur.

Central to this new direction are two key policies: The Mineral Policy 2024 and the M-Sand Policy 2024. Both the policies are designed to drive sustainable growth and attract new investments into the sector.

Economic Goals for Mining

The state aims to significantly expand the mining sector’s role in its economy with a target to increase its contribution to Rajasthan’s GDP from the current 3.4% to 5% by the end of the 2030 fiscal year.

By 2047, Rajasthan hopes to see the sector’s share rise to 8%, underscoring the administration’s commitment to long-term growth.

RIPS 2024

To make Rajasthan a more attractive hub for businesses, the state government unveiled the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS 2024).

This scheme introduces a range of investor-friendly measures, including simplified procedures, support for technology adoption, and financial incentives for businesses establishing a presence in Rajasthan.

RIPS 2024 has expanded its list of priority sectors to include metals—a category that was previously not prioritized under RIPS 2022.

Enhanced Incentives for the Metals Sector

As part of the focus on metals, RIPS 2024 offers 10% incentive for investors in the metals industry in addition to standard benefits.

This added incentive reflects Rajasthan’s strong commitment to developing a competitive, resource-driven economy.

Boost for Rare Earth Elements Projects

The RIPS 2024 scheme also introduces a 25% bonus incentive for rare earth element projects, categorizing them under “sunrise sectors.”

This move is expected to make Rajasthan a more appealing destination for investments in emerging mineral sectors, further strengthening its position in the national and global mining landscape.

Fighting Illegal Mining with Technology

Addressing the persistent issue of illegal mining, the Rajasthan government is deploying drones to monitor extraction sites across the state.

These drones will allow authorities to cross-reference reported mineral extraction with actual site data.

This technology-driven solution aims to bring greater transparency and accountability to mining operations, helping to curb unauthorized activities and ensure resource conservation.

Clearance Model for Mine Auctions

Another major reform is the adoption of a pre-embedded clearance model for mine auctions.

Under this model, all necessary clearances will be secured before auctioning off mines. It will allow lessees to start operations immediately after winning a bid.

By reducing delays and lowering operational costs, this model aims to make Rajasthan’s mining sector more appealing to investors.

A Wealth of Mineral Resources

With a diverse portfolio of 22 major and 36 minor minerals such as lead, zinc, wollastonite, and gypsum. Rajasthan is one of India’s most mineral-rich states.

In the fiscal year 2024, Rajasthan’s mining revenue exceeded ₹7,460 crore, showcasing the sector’s vast potential.

As reported by egov.eletsonline.com, the Rajasthan mining policies and incentives offer the opportunity to unlock further growth and economic contribution from this rich mineral base.