Energy Update: Week of June 15
Energy Update - June 15, 2020
Friends,
Live golf returned this past weekend joining NASCAR, German soccer and New Zealand ruby as the sports returning to action. And this weekend is not only Father’s Day, it is the return of the Triple Crown with the Belmont Stakes. Of course, it is out of order and not the usual time between races so… I still have a preview for you. The short of it is I like Tap It To Win as my favorite in the field. The betting favorite is currently Tiz the Law. See the full report below…
This morning, POLITICO hosted a PLAYBOOK Virtual interview with API’s Mike Sommers. It is likely a preview to the discussion his colleague Frank Macchiarola will have with Senate Energy tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. as they hold a hearing on COVID-19 impacts on the energy industry. BCSE’s Lisa Jacobson is also on the panel. At Noon, the House Energy Subpanel tackles the same subject with former Energy Sect. Moniz and our friends Rich Powell of ClearPath and ACORE’s Greg Wetstone on the virtual dais.
Also tomorrow at 2:30 p.m., former EPA Chemical office head Nancy Beck will head to Senate Commerce for her nomination hearing to be a Commissioner and new Chair of the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Democrats and environmentalists are of course adamantly opposed to Beck (shocker, right?). To that end, today at 4:30 p.m., Sens. Blumenthal and Udall hold virtual news conference with chemicals policy experts and others "harmed by toxic chemical exposures and consumer product dangers" to discuss opposition to the nomination. NAM, the Chamber, the American Cleaning Institute and bunch of other groups are endorsing Beck ion a letter today. My colleague Ed Krenik has worked closely with Beck over the years and of course is the top CPSC in DC, having worked with the Commission for years.
Also tomorrow on the west coast in San Luis Obispo, city leaders will attempt to jam though new building code ordinances to – in some form – ban natural gas hookups in an online council meeting with no audience. The activist Mayor is getting a lot of heat though from labor unions, small businesses and minority groups for moving forward without hearing important public input about the potential impacts of the controversial policy. More on this tomorrow late into the evening. [EDITOR'S NOTE: This graph initially incorrectly stated that the local NAACP was among the minority groups pressuring the Mayor. That later turned out to be inaccurate as only the CA Black Chamber of Commerce and Black Small Business Assn of CA ended up opposing the plan.]
This morning, the U.S. Supreme Court said that federal law allows the U.S. Forest Service to grant developers of the $8 billion Atlantic Coast gas pipeline a right-of-way across the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, reversing a Fourth Circuit ruling. Justices for the court ruled in a 7-2 decision to overturn the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals' finding that the Forest Service could not authorize the natural gas pipeline to pass hundreds of feet below the trail. AGA’s Karen Harbert said the ruling will “bring affordable, reliable and clean natural gas to businesses, factories, military bases, hospitals, schools and homes that need it for cooking, heating and hot water.”
Finally, late Friday, our research expert friends at MIT released a new study in the Transportation Research Record that suggests that small changes in roadway paving practices could reduce that efficiency loss, potentially eliminating a half-percent of the total greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, at little to no cost. With the House Transpo Committee starting markup on Wednesday, something to keep in mind.
That’s all for today, call with questions, stay safe & healthy.
Best,
Frank Maisano
(202) 828-5864
C. (202) 997-5932
THE BELMONT PREVIEW
Horse racing fans and aficionados might have a good mid-year celebration as the US Triple Crown Series gets back on track starting this weekend at Belmont Park in New York.
New Order – The organizers of the race set a realignment of Triple Crown order with the Belmont first. The Kentucky Derby then follows it on September 5th and the Preakness Stakes will happen on October 3rd.
Belmont Park – In 1890, the Belmont was moved from Jerome Park to Morris Park, a mile and three-eighths track located a few miles east of what is now Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx. The Belmont was held at Morris Park until Belmont Park's opening in 1905.
Empty Belmont Park: No Crowd Allowed – Belmont Park is often packed with hundreds and thousands of crowds, but this year, the Belmont Stakes will not have any crowd. The area will only be exclusive for the Belmont Stakes committee, Belmont Stakes 2020 horses, and other significant people. New York Racing Association (NYRA), which manages the whole Belmont racing show, is abiding by the law of avoiding mass gathering to prevent Coronavirus from spreading.
No Belmont Stakes Festival – Of course, no fans means no Belmont Stakes Festival. Every year, the Belmont Stakes holds a festival party that features the whole culture and tradition of this horse racing show. You can even witness display museums that showcase how Belmont Stakes evolved through the years. Also, it hosts red carpet shows, so you can flaunt your rodeo-inspired dresses and win fantastic prizes. This year, all of those events are canceled because it only focuses on the main racing showdown. The after-party celebration that most fans await where they can sip the traditional Belmont Breeze is also not happening.
Length – The Belmont has been run at various distances. From 1867 to 1873 it was 1 5/8 miles; from 1874 to 1889 it was 1 1/2 miles; from 1890 through 1892, and in 1895, it was held at 1 1/4 miles; from 1896 through 1925 it was 1 5/8 miles; since 1925 the Belmont Stakes has been a race of 1 1/2 miles. This year, because of the COVID delays and the change in order, the race will be 9 furlongs or 1 1/8 miles
One Turn – Configuration for the race will be a one-turn 1⅛ mile race, rather than the traditional 1½ mile race that starts in front of the grand stand. 1 1/8-miles over the massive Belmont Park main track is a one-turn race, while at almost every other track in the U.S. the same distance is run at two turns. Why does one less turn matter? Because there are less chances for traffic trouble and more maneuvering in general. If a horse is a little green or a bit of a plodder, one less turn could be a benefit.
Belmont Trophy – The Belmont Stakes trophy is a Tiffany-made silver bowl, with cover, 18 inches high, 15 inches across and 14 inches at the base. Atop the cover is a silver figure of Fenian, winner of the third running of the Belmont Stakes in 1869. The bowl is supported by three horses representing the three foundation thoroughbreds--Eclipse, Herod and Matchem.
Bettors Can Only Wager Online – Unfortunately, the thrill of being in the racing stadium will not happen this year with no fans in attendance, moving the entire betting game online. There is nothing much to worry about betting the Belmont Stakes picks since it will most probably operate like the usual – except that it will be online. You only have to sign up with a legitimate online bookie to ensure the right payout. Also, you can take advantage of their promotions to grow your profit on the side.
Nadal, Maxfield Out – One of the early favorites for the Belmont was Nadal, the Bob Baffert-trained horse who was 4 for 4 with a big win in Arkansas. Unfortunately, Nadal was retired after fracturing his left foreleg in late May. He will likely begin his stallion career next year at Spendthrift Farm in Lexington, Kentucky. Undefeated aces Maxfield and Charlatan, the dominant Arkansas Derby DII winner who also tested positive for a banned substance shortly after, both also sustained leg injuries that will keep them out, while several others are passing the Belmont for the July 11 running of the Bluegrass stakes at Keeneland, including top 3-yr-old Gouverneur Morris, Basin and Ny Traffic.
Post Time – Saturday 5:42 p.m., NBC coverage from 3 to 6.
The Field – This year, with several injuries and a bunch of other contenders headed to the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland on July 11th, it looks like only a field of 9 will start at Belmont.
Tiz the Law (Manuel Franco) – TTL is the favorite at 1-1 after his victory in the Florida Derby. He is trained by Barclay Tagg and has four wins in five career races. He has shown he likes the Belmont Park racing surface, overcoming a stumble at the start and rolling to a 4-length win in the Grade 1 Champagne Stakes last Oct. 5. He has been a leading contender all year. Look for him to hang around the leaders and then finish them in the stretch.
Farmington Road (Javier Castellano) – Trained by Todd Pletcher, FR finished 4th at Arkansas. FR is a horse that likes to drop back and make one run. If there is a solid early pace, he’ll likely close well. Win, probably not, but definitely consider using him in trifecta and/or superfecta tickets.
Modernist (Junior Alvarado) – Trained by Bill Mott, Mod was 3rd in Louisiana Derby after two straight wins (both at 1 1/8). He likes to be on the lead but isn’t particularly fast. Both of his wins came when he was able to set or track slow fractions, and that scenario doesn’t occur often in major races and his three-month layoff is a concern. Look for him up front.
Dr. Post (Irad Ortiz) – Also trained by Pletcher, he finished fourth in a loaded maiden race on debut in July at Belmont Park won by Green Light Go. He is on a definite upswing, having won both of his starts as a 3-year-old. Ortiz Jr. won the 2015 Belmont on Creator; his recent mounts finished third in 2018 and fourth last year. He has a versatile running style so look for him to be near the front and stalk, no matter the pace.
Tap it to Win (John Velazquez) – Son of Tap It he has been a sleeper with a strong pedigree. Mark Casse trains the horse that had an impressive wire-to-wire five-length win in a one-turn 1 1/16 mile allowance race at Belmont on June 4. He earned a 97 Beyer Speed Figure after he recorded a final time of 1:39.76, just .54 off the track record. He will take it out so look for him to be an early leader and hold it into the stretch. A must use for trifecta/super.
Sole Volante (Luca Panici) – SV has four wins in six starts and finished 2nd at the G2 Tampa Bay Stakes at Mile and 1/16. Trained by Patrick Biancone, he is very accomplished but has been a bit under the radar. He is a speed horse who has run to front several times, but is better known (and had more success) when he has closed hard in races. If the early pace is fast, this could be the surprise winner. He has never finished out the money
Max Player (Joel Rosario) – Trained by Linda Rice, Max has never finished lower than runner up with a win in his last at 1 1/8 Unfortunately, his racing plan was upset more than most and has been off for four months. He is unproven against a tough field but he is grinder and could surprise. He may be a bigger factor later in the fall in the Derby or Preakness. They have also changed jockeys to Rosario, who has won the Belmont twice, aboard Tonalist in 2014 and Sir Winston last year. He also finished second in 2015 third in 2011 and 2013.
Jungle Runner (Reylu Gutierrez) – Another Asmussen-trained horse with links to Tap It. He was added to the line up over the weekend and is most likely to carry the highest odds. He has faded in most races where the fields have been strong, but he is a closer so he may end up jumbling the field if the pace is fast to start.
Pneumatic (Ricardo Santana Jr.) – He is fast and will press the pace and is also trained by Asmussen. Pneumatic should be among the horses vying for the early lead, perhaps sitting just behind Tap It to Win and Modernist. He’s worth considering for exacta and trifecta tickets with Tiz the Law.
ODDS:
Tiz the Law 1-1
Sole Volante 9-2
Tap It To Win 8-1
Pneumatic 8-1
Dr. Post 10-1
Modernist 15-1
Max Player 15-1
Farmington Road 20-1
Jungle Runner 30-1
FRANKLY SPOKEN
“Sometimes a complicated regulatory scheme may cause us to miss the forest for the trees, but at bottom, these cases boil down to a simple proposition: A trail is a trail, and land is land.”
The Supreme Court, led by Justice Clarence Thomas, wrote in an opinion issued this morning on the Atlantic Coast Pipeline.
“The Supreme Court’s decision to reinstate the permit that allows the Atlantic Coast Pipeline to go forward brings affordable, reliable and clean natural gas to businesses, factories, military bases, hospitals, schools and homes that need it for cooking, heating and hot water. This decision paves the way to supply natural gas to parts of Virginia and eastern North Carolina, allowing access to more affordable energy for those who need it and delivering the economic and environmental gains that natural gas brings to communities.”
AGA President Karen Harbert in response to this morning’s SCOTUS Decision
ON THE PODCAST
HVAC Jerks Podcast Hosts AHRI Leaders to Talk Supply Chain Challenges in Mexico – AHRI’s Steve Yurek, Francis Dietz and Samantha Slater join HARDI’s Guitze Messina to discuss the supply chain situation in Mexico and the U.S. on the HVAC Jerks podcast this week. Each week, The Jerks discuss everything in the HVAC industry from news and technical stuff, right down to stupid customer stories and how "not to do it".
CapCrude Talks Biden Energy with Rapidan – On today’s Platts Capitol Crude podcast, Rapidan Energy Group predicts sweeping changes for the energy sector if former Vice President Joe Biden beats US President Donald Trump in November. A Biden White House would likely sharply limit oil and gas production on federal lands and waters, impose new climate-focused financial regulations that could restrict the industry's access to low-cost capital, and block major infrastructure projects to fulfill the campaign's climate goals. Bob McNally, president of Rapidan Energy Group, and Glenn Schwartz, director of Rapidan's Energy Policy Service, tell us why these changes are most likely and could have the biggest impact.
FUN OPINIONS
Powell: Nuclear Must Be Key Part of Our Energy Future – ClearPath Executive Director, Rich Powell joined an event hosted by DOE on the Trump Administration Strategy to Restore American Nuclear Energy Leadership: A DOE and Industry Discussion recently. As a follow up last week, RealClear Energy published an op-ed by Powell where he breaks down the Administration’s long view that a strong nuclear fuel supply industry will not exist without a thriving, growing demand for fuel. “The strategy supports moonshot technology and robust American exports to build new reactors around the world… Strategy is only as good as implementation, and this one can turn into reality — almost entirely by the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA)."
FROG BLOG
Fuel Economy Rules Impact Energy Security – in a new post on Bloomberg Insight, General Carlton D. Everhart of Securing America’s Future Energy’s Energy Security Leadership Council argues the recent fuel economy standards are based on a complete misunderstanding of the OPEC-led international oil market. He says the standards condemn the U.S. to greater reliance on a commodity controlled by countries that do not share U.S. strategic priorities—and can crash prices at any time they please.
IN THE NEWS
MIT Study Shows Improving Roads Reduces Emissions – A new study by MIT researchers suggests that small changes in roadway paving practices could reduce that efficiency loss, potentially eliminating a half-percent of the total greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, at little to no cost. The findings are detailed in a paper in the journal Transportation Research Record, by MIT postdoc Hessam Azarijafari, research scientist Jeremy Gregory, and principal research scientist in the Materials Research Laboratory Randolph Kirchain. The study examined state-by-state data on climate conditions, road lengths, materials properties, and road usage, and modeled different scenarios for pavement resurfacing practices. They found that that one key to improving mileage efficiency is to make pavements that are stiffer, Kirchain explains. That reduces the amount of deflection, which reduces wear on the road but also reduces the slightly uphill motion the vehicle constantly has to make to rise out of its own depression in the road.
BOEM Release Vinyard Draft EIS – The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) releasing a draft supplemental environmental impact statement on the Vineyard Wind offshore project. The Notice of Availability (NOA) for the document, which will open a 45-day public comment period, is set to be published in the Federal Register last Friday. BOEM plans to have the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) by mid-November and a Record of Decision (ROD) in the second half of December. Until then, the authority will also issue an OFD (One Federal Decision) Concurrence on Preferred Alternative in August.
Wind Advocates Praise BOEM’s Quick Response – The move earned praise from large renewable energy groups, including the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Business Network for Offshore Wind (BNOW), and the National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA). This praise was centered on BOEM’s ability to remain on schedule, despite the COVID-19 pandemic that has thrown many workplaces and schedules into disarray. NOIA President Erik Milito said seeing the investments offshore wind could unlock as a sure path to recovery for the U.S. economy, which entered a recession in February. By allowing wind energy a place on the waves, renewable energy groups also contend that they can share space with other ocean users without sacrificing commercial fishing space or safe navigation, as other countries have managed.
Companies Combine to Build Micro Modular Reactor in Canada – Global First Power (GFP), Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC), and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) have formed a joint venture – the Global First Power Limited Partnership – to construct and operate a small nuclear reactor known as the Micro Modular Reactor (MMR™) Project at the Chalk River Laboratories site. The project development, licensing, construction, and operation of the commercial demonstration reactor will provide safe and sustainable low-carbon power and heat to industries, such as mining, and remote communities
ON THE SCHEDULE THIS WEEK
MOST EVENTS SCHEDULED ARE NOW ONLINE WEBINARS
USEA to Discuss Energy Preparedness – The US Energy Assn will host a web forum tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. in collaboration with USAID on how the global energy sector is adapting during these unprecedented times. The webinar will highlight the work our global partners have done to increase resiliency and react to any crisis. USEA partner utilities in Colombia, India, Serbia and Uganda will discuss how they are ensuring reliable electricity production and delivery, protecting revenue streams, and adapting their operations and policies to rapidly changing situations.
Chamber Looks at Trade, COVID Impacts – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's International Policy Coalition for Sustainable Growth holds a webcast tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. on environmentally sustainable international trade in the wake of COVID-19.
Senate Energy Tackles COVID Impacts on Energy Industry – The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee holds a hearing tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. on the impacts of COVID-19 on the energy industry. EIA Deputy Admin Stephen Nalley, IEA’s David Turk, API’s Frank Macchiarola, BCSE’s Lisa Jacobson and National Association of State Utility Advocates Jackie Roberts all testify.
House Energy Panel Look at COVID, Energy Industry – The House Energy and Commerce Energy Subcommittee also holds a hearing tomorrow at Noon on COVID-19's Impact on the energy sector. Former Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, ACORE’s Greg Wetstone and ClearPath Executive Director Rich Powell testifies.
Webinar to Discuss New Grid Report – The Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA) hosts a webinar tomorrow at noon looking at a new report on Clean Energy. According to a report to be released in early June from the University of California, Berkeley and GridLab, the United States can reliably deliver 90% clean, carbon-free electricity nationwide by 2035 using existing technology, without increasing consumer bills, and without the need for new fossil fuel plants. Two of the report’s authors, Ric O’Connell (Executive Director, GridLab) and Dr. Amol Phadke (Senior Scientist and Affiliate, Goldman School of Public Policy, UC Berkeley) will present the main findings and discuss their implications.
Forum to Look at US Arctic Influence – The Hudson Institute holds a webinar tomorrow at 12:00 p.m. on reasserting U.S. influence in the Arctic. U.S. Ambassador Carla Sands will discuss America’s strategic relationship with the Kingdom of Denmark and U.S. efforts to address shared challenges and priorities in the Arctic. The conversation will be moderated by Hudson Visiting Senior Fellow Liselotte Odgaard.
Forum Looks at Rural Communities, EE During COVID – The Environmental and Energy Study Institute holds a series of webinars this week as part of the Rural Communities, Climate and COVID-19 Recovery series. Tomorrow at Noon, they focus on implementing energy efficiency programs in Rural America. On Wednesday, they look at the bioeconomy's role in COVID-19 recovery and climate solutions. On Thursday, they focus on rural communities rise to the challenge of dual disasters, focusing on flooding in the context of the coronavirus
GW Webinar Look at Enviro Justice – The George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs holds a webinar tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. on lessons on climate change justice from people in poverty. This talk identifies what those in poverty, most urgently facing the consequences of this failure can teach those must urgently trying to address it. Richly informed by ethnographies, surveys, interviews, and project assessments in 26 communities of those most effected by climate change, the talk will point toward new normative approaches to climate justice and provide a refreshed ethical map to political efficacy.
Senate Commerce to Host Nancy Beck for CPSC – Tomorrow at 2:30 p.m., former EPA Chemical office head Nancy Beck will visit the Senate Commerce Committee for her nomination hearing to be a Commissioner and new Chair of the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Democrats and environmentalists are of course adamantly opposed to Beck (shocker, right?). My colleague Ed Krenik has worked closely with Beck over the years and of course is the top CPSC in DC, having worked with the Commission for years. To that end, later today at 4:30 p.m., Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) hold virtual news conference with chemicals policy experts and people "whose lives have been profoundly harmed by toxic chemical exposures and consumer product dangers" to discuss opposition to the nomination of Nancy Beck as chair of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
House Resources to Discuss Legislation – The House Natural Resources National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands Subcommittee holds a hearing at 3:30 p.m. on various bills.
USEA to Discuss Capacity Costs, Benefits – The US Energy Assn will host a web forum Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. n comparing the costs and benefits of electricity capacity markets. Craig Glazer, Vice President for Governmental Affairs for the PJM Interconnection, the world's largest organized power market; and Fabien Roques, Executive VP and head of the Energy Group for Compass Lexecon in Paris discuss the current and future states of capacity markets in the United States and Europe.
House Transportation ready to Mark Infrastructure Bill – The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure will meet to markup H.R. 2, the “Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America Act’’ or the “INVEST in America Act Wednesday at 10:00 a.m..
Senate Environment Looks at Recycling – The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee holds a hearing on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. looking at responding to the challenges facing recycling in the US.
Forum Looks China, Carbon Emissions – The American Security Project holds a webinar on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. on China’s quandary about balancing growth and reductions in carbon emissions. Alex Hackbarth, ASP Director of Climate & Energy Security; Vice Admiral Lee Gunn, USN (Ret.); and Taiya Smith, Director, China program at the Climate Leadership Council, hold a discussion on China’s delicate balance between economic growth and reduction of carbon emissions, and the climate security implications of Beijing’s choices.
Sierra to Host Racial Justice Event – The Sierra Club holds a webinar on Wednesday at Noon looking at racial justice examining the intersectionality between the environmental and social justice movements and the mutual aid work happening to support frontline communities.
Web Event to Look at Pebble Mine – ConservAmerica holds a webinar on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. focused on the Bristol Bay Pebble Mine. The mine, located near the headwaters of the Bristol Bay watershed in southwestern Alaska, is in the final EPA/Corps permitting stage. This webinar will explore the status of the permit review process and implications if the mine is ultimately permitted. Speakers will including former Senate Energy Staff Director McKie Campbell, Chris Wood from Tout Unlimited and several more.
C2ES to Look at Climate Road Ahead – The Center for Climate and Environmental Solutions (C2ES) and the Climate Registry hosts a webinar on Wednesday at 1:15 p.m. looking at climate leadership in 2020 and what lessons can be learned for the road ahead. WY Infrastructure Authority head Jason Begger, Xcel’s Jeff Lyng and Chad Reese of the San Diego Airport Authority are among the speakers.
Forum to Look at Innovation, Economic Growth – On Wednesday at 2:00 p.m., the Hamilton Project at the Brookings Institution will host a webcast discussing how public policy initiatives can spur the innovations that lead to long-term economic growth and productivity. The event will coincide with the release of a framing paper and three new Hamilton Project proposals that focus on expanding the innovation pipeline and reforms to make the patent system work better for innovators. The event will feature framing remarks by Paul Romer, co-recipient of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences and university professor in economics at NYU, followed by a panel discussion. Panel discussants include Hamilton Project proposal authors: Lisa D. Cook of Michigan State University, John Van Reenen of MIT Sloan School of Management, and Heidi Williams of Stanford University.
Book Event to Look at Climate, Clean Energy Policy Battles – The Johns Hopkins University Nitze School of Advanced International Studies holds a book discussion with activist professor Leah Stokes via webcast on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m., on interest groups and the battle over clean energy and climate policy in the states.
Stimson to Host GIS Event – The Stimson Center hosts an event on Thursday at 8:00 a.m. for an introduction to existing GIS tools and a discussion about how they can support a more sustainable energy future for Asia. Transitioning to a sustainable energy future requires considering how energy intersects and interacts with other sectors. Multi-sector planning benefits from geographic information system (GIS) tools, which can map energy infrastructure against other infrastructure, key environmental indicators, and socio-economic data. Doing so can identify risks, opportunities, and comparisons of costs and benefits across different project portfolios.
Forum to Look at PFAS Solutions – Minerals Company CETCO and the Colorado School of Mines hold a webinar on Thursday at 9:00 a.m. exploring PFAS treatment solutions and their efficacy. Colorado School of Mines Professor Chris Bellona, CETCO R&D head Michael Donovan, look at treating drinking water, groundwater, or soil. The webinar will share results from university-led research and field pilot studies on the various treatment solutions, including FLUORO-SORB adsorbent – a proprietary media that has been proven to be 3-4 times more effective than Granular Activated Carbon.
FERC Meeting – The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission holds its next open meeting on Thursday, June 18th at 10:00 a.m. via audio Webcast only. The agenda may be found here.
WRI to Look at Trillion Trees – The World Resources Institute holds a forum Thursday at 10:00 a.m. to launch its TerrMatch platform. TerraMatch is a new online platform that connects people who know how to grow trees with funders. It will help countries, communities, and businesses around the world act on their commitments to restore land. The launch of this exciting new platform will also feature some of the leaders in this global fight against land degradation and climate change.
USEA, AID Look at CyberSecurity – The United States Energy Association and the U.S. Agency for International Development hold a web discussion on Thursday at 11:00 a.m., on strategies for intelligence connections between digitalization and cybersecurity. Presenters, including NACAA’s Miles Keogh will lead the event into the critically important discussion on the benefits of digitization of the electrical grid operations and provide benefits to both utilities and consumers.
Webinar Looks at Rooftop Solar Timeline – Berkeley Lab holds a webinar on Thursday at 1:00 p.m. looking at a data-driven analysis of rooftop solar PV permitting timelines in the United States. Local permitting timelines for rooftop solar systems are getting shorter but remain highly variable, according to a new Berkeley Lab study published in the journal Energy Policy. Installers, permitting authorities and policymakers can all play a role in reducing timelines and uncertainty.
Web Event to Provide Industry Update – On Thursday at 1:00 p.m., ScottMadden hosts a webcast to present its latest Energy Industry Update The event explores how the energy industry could be “taken to the limit” by long-term trends and challenging business-as-usual approaches. It has been published at a unique time in the world, as a whole, and within the energy industry. The COVID-19 pandemic is changing everything, and no one is sure how the industry will look later this year, let alone in the long-term. What is certain is that customers will continue to need reliable and affordable electricity and natural gas. During this session, ScottMadden’s energy experts will share their views and field questions related to the future of the gas utility, 100% clean energy goals and how they may be impacted by COVID-19, and regulatory strategy during a pandemic.
BPC Looks at Recovery – The Bipartisan Policy Center holds a webcast on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. looking at environmental, social, and governance during an economic recovery. ESG, is a framework increasingly used as a way to measure factors beyond the balance sheet that impact the financial performance and long-term sustainability of a corporation. However, there is confusion surrounding the role ESG plays and how it can help companies mitigate risk and meet the increasing demands of their shareholders. The corporate response to the COVID-19 crisis and subsequent economic downturn has brought these issues even more to forefront.
AEE Holds Eastern Policy Conference Part II – Advanced Energy Economy will hold the second part of its annual Eastern Regional policy conference in an online seminar on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. featuring RTO execs. This panel of wholesale power market leaders and visionaries will look back at how we got here and look ahead to consider how RTO markets can evolve to meet the opportunities and challenges of an advanced energy future.
Green Corps Holds Annual Event – The Green Corps holds its 28th annual D.C. Celebration and Fundraiser event via webcast on Thursday evening.
Forum to Look at Natgas, Zero Emissions – On Friday at 10:00 a.m., the Atlantic Council’s Global Energy Center holds the next installment of EnergySource: Innovation Stream. The series highlights new energy technologies with the potential to reshape the global energy system through discussions with companies and individuals working diligently to bring those innovations to market at scale. The Global Energy Center will host Charles E. ‘Chas’ Roemer, IV, Chairman, G2 Net-Zero LNG, who will discuss the world’s first net-zero LNG export and industrial gas production complex, expected to be deployed by 2026. Roemer will discuss how G2 Net-Zero LNG partners with several global energy innovators including Siemens Energy Inc., 8 Rivers/NET Power, and EJM Associates LLC, to build the world’s first net-zero LNG export and industrial gas production complex.
IN THE FUTURE
Bloomberg Sustainable Biz Summit – The Bloomberg Sustainable Business Summit in London originally schedule for Next Monday and Tuesday will be rescheduled for fall of 2020. Please check this page for updates.
Atlantic Forum to Look at Aviation Fuel Policy – Next Monday at 4:30 p.m., the Atlantic Council Global Energy Center hosts a conversation with Fred Ghatala, author of the Atlantic Council Global Energy Center’s report, “Sustainable aviation fuel policy in the United States: A pragmatic way forward,” and director for carbon and sustainability at Advanced Biofuels Canada. Rep. Rick Larsen will deliver opening remarks for the event which will focus on the unique challenges of decarbonizing the aviation sector and opportunities to incentivize the use of SAF through pragmatic, sector-specific federal policies.
Forum to Look at COVID, Security – Next Monday at 5:30 p.m., the Institute of World Politics hosts a webinar presentation on COVID-19 and global energy security with Derek Campbell and Sara Vakhshouri. In this lecture, Vakhshouri will discuss the fundamentals and changes in the energy market, and Campbell will talk about physical security of energy infrastructure and cyber security.
Webinar Features Local Officials on Clean Energy – SolSmart host a webinar on Tuesday June 23rd at 2:00 p.m. to provide an overview of the approaches to setting renewable energy goals and processes for identifying the most impactful and appropriate implementation strategies, including considerations related to the COVID-19 crisis. The webinar will highlight case studies from communities that have developed renewable energy plans. Speakers including local official from Idaho and North Carolina, as well as Daniel Falk of the Solar Foundation.
BPC to Look at Direct Air Capture –The Bipartisan Policy Center and Carbon180 hold a webinar on Tuesday June 23rd at 2:00 p.m. for a first look at the analysis from Rhodium Group that quantifies the significant employment and market opportunities associated with the scale-up of Direct Air Capture. Lead author John Larsen will present their estimates on the number of potential new jobs and other opportunities for growth in major markets like steel, cement, chemicals, electricity, and natural gas resulting from broader DAC deployment. The presentation will be followed by a brief moderated discussion with key stakeholders. Speakers include United Steelworkers IVP Roxanne Brown and Jason Walsh of the BlueGreen Alliance.
NRC to Look at NM Storage EIS – The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission will conduct a public meeting soliciting comments on a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Holtec International’s proposed Consolidated Interim Storage Facility (CISF) for spent nuclear fuel in Lea County, New Mexico. The draft EIS evaluates potential environmental impacts of Holtec’s request to build and operate the proposed CISF. The NRC staff will present the results of the draft environmental impact analysis and receive the public’s comments on the draft report.
USEA to Discuss Bangladesh LNG – On Wednesday June 24th at 9:00 a.m., the US Energy Assn holds a webinar on LNG issues in Bangladesh featuring Excelerate Energy’s Ramon Wangdi. This webinar will cover the market fundamentals for LNG projects in Bangladesh, the development history of the MLNG project, the unique operating environment in the Bay of Bengal and the technology employed to overcome this environment and a look ahead to future prospects in growing the LNG sector within Bangladesh in the years ahead.
NEI Virtual Event: The State of the Nuclear Energy Industry 2020 – The Nuclear Energy Institute holds is annual state of the Nuclear Energy Industry 2020 discussion next Wednesday, June 24th at 10:00 a.m. This virtual event includes NEI head Maria Korsnick's annual nuclear industry outlook followed by two policy panels. The first panel features Miranda Ballentine, CEO of the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance, and Ken Kimmell, president of the Union of Concerned Scientists. Rich Powell from ClearPath will moderate a discussion with these two clean energy leaders. The second panel will feature Sen. Joe Manchin interviewed by Bipartisan Policy Center's Jason Grumet.
Renewable Conference Set – The American Solar Energy Society hosts its SOLAR 20/20: Renewable Energy Vision on June 24 and 25 as a virtual conference.
IEA, EPRI Look at COVID, Recovery – On Wednesday June 24th at 10:30 a.m., EPRI will hold a Washington Seminar—co-hosted by the International Energy Agency (IEA)— that will feature EPRI and IEA leaders discussing the electricity sector’s response to the pandemic, business and environmental impacts, and opportunities for a sustainable recovery from COVID.
Web Event Look at a Decarbonizing Energy – Power Magazine hosts a forum on Wednesday June 24th at 11:00 a.m. on decarbonizing the energy sector is challenging. It involves implementing new technology and hitting aggressive targets and timelines. This session will explore how utilities, system designers, and equipment suppliers view the evolution of the hydrogen economy as it concerns the power industry.
Forum to Look at Ocean Energy – The World Resources Institute holds a web forum on Wednesday June 24th at Noon looming at ocean-based renewable energy. This webinar will feature the latest Blue Paper commissioned by the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy. This scientific paper suggests that rapid decarbonization of the energy system will not necessarily require metals to be mined from the deep seabed in the near future. Cost-effective technologies that use less metal or alternative materials can be made available if investments are made in their development and if such investments are combined with a switch to a circular economy. The paper’s authors and other experts will discuss which actions will enable governments, businesses, communities and NGOs to ensure that the scaling up of ocean-based renewable energy does not come at the cost of damaging unique ocean habitats that we know little about or the achievement of a sustainable ocean economy.
AV Summit Set – The Information holds its 2020 Autonomous Vehicles Summit on Thursday June 25th at 11:00 a.m. This is a one-of-a-kind virtual conference for autonomous vehicle industry leaders. In previous years, the summit has drawn participants from top companies including Waymo, Uber, GM/Cruise, Apple, Amazon, Tesla, Volkswagen, Daimler, Toyota, and SoftBank. It's a must-attend event for operators, investors, suppliers, and policymakers in the field. The Autonomous Vehicles Summit features a mix of fireside chats and topical panels hosted by The Information's Amir Efrati. Lots of time is set aside for Q&A with attendees. This year, the event will look into more discussions around efficient capital allocation as companies recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
USEA Policy Forum Postponed – The US Energy Assn has delayed its annual membership meeting and public policy forum originally set for Thursday June 25th to a future time in the fall.
Forum to Look at Renewable Biodiesel Successes – The Renewable Energy Group hosts a forum on Thursday June 25th at 2:00 p.m. to look at biodiesel. Biodiesel has traditionally been blended with petroleum diesel. Recently, some forward-looking organizations have been using 100% biodiesel, known as B100, to take even greater advantage of the environmental benefits of biodiesel. It is being done with a simple, affordable piece of technology that allows medium- and heavy-duty trucks run on B100 while still having access to petroleum diesel should they want it. City leaders from Ames, Iowa and Washington DC will discuss the success of their B100 fleets.
GTM Hosts Solar Discussion – Greentech Media hosts a webinar on Tuesday June 30th at 1:00 p.m. where Wood Mackenzie research analysts will focus on global solar PV markets and supply chains in the time of coronavirus. Solar analysts forecast a tough couple of years ahead as we navigate the economic downturn, but the fundamentals still look very strong.