100% hrvatska pasivna kuća

100% hrvatska pasivna kuća

Zagreb, 09. prosinca 2011. - Poziv za prikupljanje ponuda zainteresiranih ulagača u projekt industrijske proizvodnje pasivnih kuća za Fazu I (kataloški broj ponude 08122011).

Hrvatska tvrtka koja je razvila inovativnu tehnologiju industrijske proizvodnje pasivnih građevina kreće u realizaciju projekta. Investicijska studija temelji se na patentu pod nazivom "Konstrukcija modula zida visokih izolacijskih svojstava za pasivne zgrade, postupak njegove tvorničke izrade za jednostavnu montažu na mjestu gradnje".

Posebnost ove inovativne tehnologije je u kombinaciji odabira i spoju više različitih materijala, osmišljenosti tehnologije za proizvodnju elemenata kuća i zgrada poput automobilske industrije, a posebno u maksimalnoj debljini konstrukcijskih zidova koji udovoljavaju uvjetima pasivne gradnje. Inovativnost proizvoda omogućava učinkovitu i brzu proizvodnju, a inovativnost u konstrukciji omogućava brzinu i točnost spajanja gotovih elemenata na gradilištu. Takav proizvodni proces omogućava 100 postotnu gotovost zidnih elemenata u proizvodnom pogonu pod punim nadzorom kontrole kvalitete proizvoda.

S tehničkog stanovišta riječ je o kompozitnom zidu koji se sastoji od 3 osnovne vrste materijala - čeličnog skeleta od "C" profila koji osigurava statičke karakteristike, vanjska i unutarnja obloga zida od vatrootpornih i vodootpornih ploča također dobrih akustičnih i toplinskih karakteristika te izolaciona ispuna koja osigurava kompaktnost i toplinske karakteristike zida.

Unutar zida je izvedena kompletna infrastruktura potrebnih instalacija. Primjena izolacijskog punila daje proizvodu odlične toplinske karakteristike max. U=0,14 W/m²K u maksimalnoj debljini zida do 30 cm što povećava veličinu netto korisnog stambenog prostora minimalno 10% u odnosu na druge sustave pasivnog građenja. Osim što tehnologija zadovoljava standarde pasivne gradnje također statičke karakteristike osnovnog sustava omogućavaju gradnju stambenih i poslovnih građevina do 20 m visine, a sa dodatnom čeličnom konstrukcijom moguće je izvoditi i pasivne građevine do 200 m visine.

Svojim karakteristikama tehnologija odgovara zacrtanim ciljevima EU na području energetske učinkovitosti i smanjenja emisije CO2 te uštedi energije u zgradarstvu. Tehnologija proizvodnje dopušta izvedbu raznih arhitektonskih stilova gradnje. Godišnji kapacitet proizvodnje jednog proizvodnog pogona je do 200.000 m² jedinica stambenog, poslovnog ili proizvodnog prostora sa ukupno 300 zaposlenika. Učinkovitost sustava industrijske proizvodnje pasivnih građevina čini gradnju konkurentnom današnjim cijenama standardne gradnje, a investitorima jamči značajnu dobit.

Mogući oblici ulaganja: ulagačka partnerstva, programi bespovratnih sredstava i financiranje projekata iz pretpristupnih fondova Europske unije, općenito otvorenih ili zatvorenih fondova i kredita.

Predmetnu investicijsku studiju, visinu ulaganja i ekonomsko-financijsku analizu odnosno kontakt podatke Investitora možete dobiti slanjem upita na info@croenergo.eu s obveznom naznakom kataloškog broja ponude 08122011 ili ispunjavanjem obrasca na linku http://www.croenergo.eu/100-hrvatska-pasivna-kuca-4000.aspx.

Hrvatski Centar Obnovljivih Izvora Energije (HCOIE)

smart ebike: a new urban movement

smart ebike

The ebike is another idea from smart for electric mobility on two wheels with no local emissions. The pioneering ebike electric bicycle study embodies sophisticated technology, versatility and futuristic design. In a word: typical smart.



With the new ebike, smart is presenting its second idea for locally emission-free electric mobility on two wheels. The trend-setting electric bicycle study, which will be premiered at the Paris Motor Show together with the highly regarded smart escooter is suited for both effortless city biking and sporty use. Unlike the scooter, the ebike´s drive is not controlled via the throttle grip. Instead, it delivers extra power when the rider pedals. The muscle power-electric hybrid drive offers four power levels. The high-tech bike also sets standards in terms of appearance and concept, starting with the futuristic look and the discretely designed lightweight wheels to the technical features in detail. Characteristics that the ebike and the escooter have in common are typical smart design features, simple handling and the integration of smartphones: the smart drive kit app that has been further developed also performs numerous functions for the ebike, for example those of a speedometer and a navigation system.

In addition to its eye-catching design and innovative technology, the new smart ebike has a special feature: its versatility. The electric drive conserves the rider's strength in everyday use – for example on the way to school, university or work. Thanks to "electric power", there is no longer any need to be afraid of hills. In addition, the high-tech ebike is simple to operate without conventional gear shifting. At the same time it is great for a sporty workout: the electric drive integrated in the rear wheel does not offer unlimited assistance and is automatically cut off at 25 km/h. Besides, the rider's fitness is the only thing to limit the maximum speed that can be achieved. And incidentally, "pedelecs" (Pedal Electric Cycle) have a further practical advantage for all "bikers": no driving licence is needed as they do not reach electrically driven speeds above 25 km/h.

Dr Annette Winkler, head of smart, says "The brand smart becomes even more electric with the ebike: Following the fortwo and the escooter, many old and new smart fans may choose the way they move in the city even more individually and adapt it better to their individual life, the weather and their personal mood. People of all ages, with or without a driving licence, fit or not will enjoy experiencing the world by bicycle, also over longer distances. As long as power and shape suffice, the own fitness is the “engine”. But also if the electric drive is started, the ebike remains locally emission-free - except of one own´s breath. With a long range of typical attributes such as the character defining design and the safety features, also the bike shows: smart is intelligent.”

Sporty lightweight construction with typical smart design elements

The smart ebike boasts a clear design idiom and an "uncluttered" independent appearance. The frame construction is obviously solid and at the same time also very elegant. It consists of aluminium profiles that are lightweight yet torsionally rigid thanks to large cross sections and ensures a strong direct connection between the steering-head bearing and the crankcase. The smart ebike weighs approximately 22 kilograms, making the smart among the electric bicycles one of the lightweights in its segment.

The rear wheel is also suspended by large and accordingly sturdy aluminium profiles, which means that there is no need for the supporting struts usually found in the rear wheel area of other bicycles. Technical components such as Bowden wires or cables are not visible and this contributes to the harmonious and clear overall impression.

The design of the cladding on the lower frame segment is based on the bodypanels of the smart fortwo and underlines the affiliation with the brand. The dynamic look is rounded off by filigree 26 inch lightweight wheels with six double spokes which enhance ride comfort thanks to good intrinsic damping, and can also cope well with rough road surfaces or a "short cut" over a kerb.

The smart ebike was designed and realised in cooperation with the Berlin e-bike manufacturer GRACE based on concrete ideas and specifications from the smart designers. The company specialises in high quality and fully integrated electric bikes. The project was led by Karlheinz Nicolai, who enjoys an excellent reputation in the two-wheeler industry as a developer and design engineer of high-tech bicycles.

Active bend lighting for maximum visibility in the dark

The front headlamp, which is not fitted on the frame but rather integrated in the handlebar, provides for greater active safety. It has the same effect as active curve illumination on cars: the state-of-the-art full LED headlamp follows every steering movement and ensures the best possible illumination of the area in the direction of travel. This solution – like the LED rear lamp integrated in the underside of the saddle – also adds to the pleasing aesthetics as these two mounted parts are positioned so elegantly that they do not interrupt the overall styling.

Hybrid drive with muscle power and electric drive

According to the technical definition, the ebike has a hybrid drive - a combination of muscle power and an electric drive. The electric "booster" is a 250 watt brushless direct current wheel hub motor that is integrated in the rear wheel. The propulsion current is stored in a compact lithium-ion battery with voltage of 36 volts and capacity of 9.6 Ah. The battery pack is housed above the pedal crankcase on the frame and is concealed by the frame panelling. The charge socket for the battery charger is located below the pedal-crank bearing. The ebike can be charged at any normal household socket – just like a notebook. The battery can be fully charged in two to three hours. The energy recuperated during braking is stored in the battery during the journey.

Plug and play: insert smartphone – and off you go!

Like on the escooter, a smartphone is also used on the ebike. It assumes various functions during the ride, for example those of a speedometer or a heart rate monitor. At the same time the smartphone is both a "starter" and an immobiliser: when it is placed in the specially designed mount it automatically activates the drive system. When the rider removes the smartphone the ebike is automatically locked and protected against theft.

The electric drive is switched on as soon as the rider starts pedalling like on a normal bicycle. Muscle power is also transmitted to the rear wheel in accordance with the classic bicycle principle: from the pedals via the crank bearing to the final drive. A special feature of the ebike is that a belt pulley and a toothed belt assume the tasks of the chain wheel and chain. These are silent and – like the other components of the drive system – they do not require any maintenance.

Four level boost effect

The rider decides how much power he wants the electric drive to deliver to support his muscle power by pressing a button on the handlebar. There is a choice of four power levels with the fourth and strongest level providing maximum pushing power. Depending on the level of assistance the bike has a range per battery charge of 30, 50, 70 or 90 kilometres – more than ample for the distances covered in everyday use. If the rider changes the "booster" power during the journey, the remaining range will vary depending on the power used. The gear ratio is automatically adjusted in two levels depending on the speed. The maximum speed depends on the terrain and the energy expended by the rider. At a speed of more than 25 kilometres per hour the electric drive automatically stops providing assistance – and the ebike becomes a pure “muscle bike”.

Safe braking – with energy recuperation

The front and rear wheels are each equipped with a state-of-the art hydraulic disc brake for safe and efficient braking. In addition, the rear wheel is braked "electrically" via the resistance of the wheel hub motor. When the brakes are applied, the operating principle is reversed, and the drive becomes a generator whose resistance provides the required braking effect – just like on the escooter. The resulting braking energy is recuperated, i.e. it is converted into electrical energy and stored in the bike's lithium-ion battery.

The smartphone as a control and communication centre

As well as its functions in controlling the vehicle, the smartphone – which is charged during the ride – also serves an important role as a trip computer. During the ride it informs the rider about the battery charge status and the present and average speed, and it can also be used as a navigation system. Furthermore, the rider has mobile internet access via the smart drive kit app and can use numerous further applications such as internet radio, music playlists and telephone book. A GPS tracking function also shows where the bike is parked.

Additional smartphone-specific applications are conceivable for the further development. For example, on winter or rainy days and whenever four wheels are the more practical alternative, networking with the successful car2go mobility concept is possible. All in all the new ebike perfectly embodies the smart philosophy of intelligent urban mobility that is consistently geared to sustainability. Like its automotive counterpart, the smart fortwo electric drive, it offers numerous convincing advantages - ecologically, economically and functionally. Exemplary environmental compatibility is guaranteed in every respect. On the one hand the ebike has no local emissions and does not need any fossil fuels or lubricants. On the other hand all components are 100 percent recyclable. It combines low operating costs with functional advantages – from simple operation to the fact that finding a parking space in the city is not an issue at all for ebikers. Furthermore, in addition to practical advantages in everyday use, the integration of the smartphone means that the ebike is also easy to integrate in new mobility concepts.
More info at CCRES site.

CROATIAN CENTER of RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES (CCRES)

EU will give extra €500 million for the decommissioning of old Soviet type nuclear reactors

Nuclear safety: EU will give extra €500 million for the decommissioning of old Soviet type nuclear reactors

The European Commission has proposed to provide further EU assistance of €500 million to support the decommissioning in Bulgaria, Lithuania and Slovakia. These funds will contribute to the continuation of safe decommissioning of the nuclear power plants Kozloduy, Ignalina and Bohunice. This new financial assistance should support the efforts of the three Member States who are ultimately responsible for nuclear safety, including the financing of decommissioning.

EU Commissioner for energy Günther Oettinger said: "It is in our citizens' interest, that these reactors will be safely decommissioned and that they will never be restarted again. This additional financial support will help the three Member States to timely progress in defueling and decommissioning of these nuclear reactors. This is a clear expression of solidarity of the EU, which has put nuclear safety as a priority."

The Union assistance for decommissioning of nuclear power plants aims at reaching an irreversible state in the decommissioning process and eliminating the major source of radiological hazard. The proposal foresees for Bulgaria additional €185 million until 2020, for Lithuania €210 million until 2017 and for Slovakia €105 million until 2017 (in 2011 prices).

Before the Union financial support will be provided, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Lithuania will have to meet certain conditions:

• EU legislation on nuclear safety and on the management of nuclear waste has to be fully implemented.

• The Member States have to create legal frameworks for the timely accumulation of national financial resources to cover the remaining financial needs. This will make sure that the Member States will be able to gradually take over the necessary financing responsibilities.

• Revised detailed decommissioning plans have to be submitted to the Commission. Those plans will be the basis for monitoring the implementation of the financial assistance from the Union.

Background:

As a precondition for the accession to the EU, Bulgaria, Lithuania and Slovakia had to commit themselves to close and subsequently decommission its nuclear reactors Kozloduy units 1 to 4, Ignalina units 1 and 2 and Bohunice V1 units 1 and 2. All three Member States fulfilled their obligations and all the reactor units were closed down in due time.

The EU committed itself to provide some financial assistance for the decommissioning of these reactors as an expression of European solidarity. The EU has not committed itself to cover the total amount of costs. The proposed 500 million Euro comes on top of what has already been committed. The total financial assistance from the EU to the three Member States until the end of 2013 foresees €2 847.8 million in current prices (€1 367 million for Lithuania, €613 million for Slovakia and €867.8 million for Bulgaria).

The Commission's proposal to provide additional financial assistance beyond 2014 contributes to the overall nuclear safety within the EU. It allows to better follow-up the full completion of the decommissioning as the amounts and the distribution will be linked to the progress achieved.

For more information see CCRES website.

Croatian Center of Renewable Energy Sources (CCRES)

News and Events by CCRES December 07, 2011

CROATIAN CENTER of RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

News and Events December 07, 2011 President Obama Announces Nearly $4 Billion in Building Energy Upgrades Workers like this one putting insulation into a wall will help transform public and private sector buildings through energy upgrades. Credit: Dennis Schroeder, NREL President Obama announced on December 2 nearly $4 billion in combined federal and private sector energy upgrades to buildings over the next two years. These investments will save billions in energy costs, promote energy independence, and, according to independent estimates, create tens of thousands of jobs in the hard-hit construction sector. The $4 billion investment includes a $2 billion commitment, made through the issuance of a presidential memorandum, to energy upgrades of federal buildings using long-term energy savings to pay for up-front costs, at no cost to taxpayers. In addition, 60 Chief Executive Officers, mayors, university presidents, and labor leaders committed to invest nearly $2 billion of private capital into energy efficiency projects. They also pledged to upgrade energy performance by a minimum of 20% by 2020 in 1.6 billion square feet of office, industrial, municipal, hospital, university, community college, and school buildings. The commitments were announced by President Obama and former President Clinton along with representatives from more than 60 organizations as part of DOE's Better Buildings Challenge. The challenge is part of the Better Buildings Initiative launched in February by the president. President Clinton is spearheading the effort along with the President's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness to support job creation by catalyzing private sector investment in commercial and industrial building energy upgrades to make buildings 20% more efficient over the next decade. Such improvements would reduce energy costs for U.S. businesses by nearly $40 billion. Last year, commercial buildings consumed roughly 20% of all energy used by the U.S. economy. Among those pledging to reduce energy consumption were the District of Columbia, which is committed to a multi-pronged action plan to reduce energy consumption in more than 90 million square feet of city- and privately held buildings in the downtown core by at least 20% by 2020. And Prologis, a global leader in industrial real estate, has made it a key priority to work with its customers to reduce energy consumption in 100 million square feet by 20% by 2020. See the White House press release. DOE Awards $12 Million in the Rooftop Solar Challenge The SunShot Initiative's Rooftop Solar Challenge will boost installation of solar panels like these shown on a Chicago building. Credit: Social Security Administration DOE announced on December 1 its $12 million in funding for the awardees of the Rooftop Solar Challenge. The Challenge supports 22 regional teams in 18 states to spur solar power deployment by cutting red tape. The effort streamlines and standardizes permitting, zoning, metering, and connection processes, while also improves finance options for residential and small commercial rooftop solar systems. This project is part DOE's SunShot Initiative, and is designed to make solar energy more accessible and affordable, increase domestic solar deployment, and position the United States as a leader in the global solar market. Using a "race to the top" model, the Rooftop Solar Challenge incentivizes the regional awardees to address the differing and expensive permitting, zoning, metering, and connection processes required to install and finance residential and small business solar systems. The 22 teams bring together city, county, and state officials, regulatory entities, private industry, universities, local utilities, and other regional stakeholders to clear a path for rapid expansion of solar energy and serve as models for other communities across the country. The teams will implement step-by-step actions to standardize permit processes, update planning and zoning codes, improve standards for connecting solar power to the electric grid and increase access to financing. Non-hardware costs like permitting, installation, design, and maintenance currently account for up to 40% of the total cost of installed rooftop photovoltaic systems in the United States. The SunShot Initiative is a collaborative national effort to make solar cost-competitive with other forms of energy by the end of the decade. See the DOE press release, a complete list of awardees, and the SunShot Initiative website. Tribal Clean Energy Assistance Offered by DOE DOE launched on December 2 the Strategic Technical Assistance Response Team (START) initiative aimed at advancing clean energy generation in Indian Country. The initiative provides federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native governments with technical assistance to accelerate clean energy project deployment. This effort furthers DOE's commitment to providing tribes with the tools and resources they need to foster tribal energy self-sufficiency and sustainability, and to advancing economic competitiveness and job creation. Through START, DOE and national laboratory experts will work directly with community-based project teams to evaluate financial and technical feasibility. The experts will also provide early development technical assistance to better position these projects for financing and construction. The initiative complements the DOE's Office of Indian Energy's efforts to make reliable and technical information and training available to tribal communities throughout the United States. The START initiative will further serve to help Native American and Alaska Native communities increase local generation capacity, enhance energy efficiency and conservation measures, and create entrepreneurial and job opportunities in the new clean energy economy. Awards through this initiative will be provided through two programs. Tribes selected for the START program will be paired with DOE experts who have clean energy deployment experience relevant to the selected tribe's project development stage and technology. And, under the Alaska START Program, selected Alaska Native participants will leverage the combined technical expertise and resources of DOE and the Denali Commission for training to further clean energy projects such as energy storage infrastructure, renewable energy deployment, and housing energy efficiency. Concept applications are due January 15, 2012. See the DOE press release and the Office of Indian Energy's START website.

Site News EERE Network News Newsletter Holiday Break The EERE Network News newsletter final edition for 2011 will be on December 14, and then we will take a two week break. ENN will return on January 4, 2012. We look forward to keeping you informed on the latest energy efficiency and renewable energy news.

Deadline for Energy Department Business Plan Competition Approaching If you're a university student interested in low-carbon technologies and entrepreneurship, then this is the premier opportunity for you to pitch your idea. The Regional Clean Energy Business Plan Competition is accepting business plan submissions until March 2, 2012. Across the country, six regional competitions will serve as platforms for students to come up with innovative business plans to transform great clean energy ideas into great businesses. Based in California, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Texas, the regional competitions span the entire nation and all U.S. territories. Each region is unique in its own right, but they all share the common goal of bringing clean technologies to the market through creative business solutions. If you live in the Eastern Midwest region (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin), the time for you to develop a business plan and register is NOW. The Eastern Midwest region's Clean Energy Student Challenge submission deadline was December 5, 2011. For the rest of the country, submission deadlines range from January 15 to March 2, 2012. You can learn more about each regional competition and the corresponding deadline here. The six regional winners will each receive $100,000 in prize money and a chance to compete for a National Grand Prize at a competition held at DOE headquarters in Washington, D.C., in the summer of 2012. See the Energy Blog post. Producing Clean, Renewable Diesel from Biomass By Paul Bryan, Biomass Program Manager, Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy After a rigorous testing process, DOE project partners at ThermoChem Recovery International (TRI) have validated a process that converts wood waste and forest residue into clean, renewable fuel. Pilot validation is a key milestone for biofuels companies like TRI. With critical engineering data in hand and the testing phase complete, TRI can now begin the journey toward full-scale commercialization of a proven technology. With the support of DOE funding, TRI has done substantial testing of a thermal gasification and gas-to-liquids process at its pilot plant in Durham, North Carolina. Through its operations, TRI has converted several hundred tons of 100% woody biomass feedstock into diesel fuel and paraffin waxes. TRI has collected over 1,000 hours of operational data that validate the process, while meeting or exceeding all of their operational and product yield targets. This achievement will directly benefit two biorefinery projects in Wisconsin that are cost-shared by DOE: NewPage Corporation's biorefinery, "Project Independence," in Wisconsin Rapids and Flambeau River Papers biorefinery in Park Falls. TRI's data will help inform final engineering design of their future biorefineries. The gasification and gas-to-liquids technology will be integrated into their existing pulp and paper mills to produce clean, renewable, marketable diesel fuel and paraffin waxes, and will provide additional renewable energy by supplying steam and hot water to the co-located paper mill. See Energy Blog post. More info at solarserdar@gmail.com CROATIAN CENTER of RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES (CCRES)

CCRES Expert: Nuclear energy 'does not reduce the price of electricity'

CCRES Expert: Nuclear energy 'does not reduce the price of electricity'

Nuclear power plants are attractive for their owners but not necessarily for the consumer, says Alois Tost, independent expert consultant on energy issues.

Alois Tost is an Independent consultant on nuclear energy and renewable energy sources in Europe.

Germany had already started to consider a nuclear phase-out several years ago but things have moved very quickly on the issue since the Fukushima accident. What happened in the political discussion on the nuclear power in Germany during the last years and months?

The nuclear phase-out started to be a serious topic in Germany in the year 2000 at the time of the government of the Social Democratic Party and the Greens. They negotiated with the energy business to agree on the 32 years limit for nuclear power plants' lifetime. The law came into power in 2002.

But during the discussion the other parties in the parliament, especially the Christian Democrats and the Free Democratic Party were giving signals that if they became part of a ruling coalition in the future they would cancel this law. That actually happened after they have been elected in 2009. Even against a strong resistance among the population they agreed to extend the lifetime from the previously agreed dates – it was extended by 14 years for the new power plants and by 8 years for the old ones.

But the reason that launched the whole discussion in Europe was of course the Fukushima accident in March 2011. The whole of Europe not only started to discuss nuclear power but also saw how Germany reacted by switching off eight power plants immediately.

Later on, the German government returned to the original law and has formulated an even more clearly defined schedule for the phase-out. This restored law was not only approved by the ruling parties but naturally by the Social Democrats and the Greens as well.

It even became a subject to criticism as some say that when you have a law backed by such a strong majority you should insert it into the constitution. Because then you will never find a majority which would be able to cancel it in the foreseeable future.

The reaction of German industry to the governments' decision was, not surprisingly, negative. How does the industry deal with the shift away from the nuclear power? Will the phase-out affect the prices of energy and what will be the impact on the competitiveness of the German industry?

Before the government's decision, during the discussion whether to expand the lifetime of the nuclear power plants or not, the industry started several campaigns and lobbying in favour of the expansion of the nuclear plants' lifetime. But as soon as this decision was reneged, industry started to support the expansion of coal power plants. Probably because nowadays we have no party in the parliament that is pro-nuclear power anymore.

Anyway there is still a certain level of criticism towards the nuclear phase-out because many companies think that the change was taken too quickly. They are afraid of blackouts which might appear especially in winter when the demand for energy is higher and renewable sources provide less electricity than in the summer. It has to be taken into consideration that this explanation might mainly aim to support their wish for lower electricity prices.

Of course the companies state that the phase-out will lower the competitiveness. But we have to consider that there is only a very small part of the German industry really dependent on electricity prices, for example the production of aluminium or steel.

But even the steel industry, which is considered to be a big consumer of electricity, is not so dependent on electricity prices. If the electricity cost rises by 20%, the production cost in the steel industry will rise by only by 1.5%. Such change in prices can easily happen also with the costs of raw materials or coal which are also very important in the steel industry.

After a nuclear phase-out, there are several energy sources which can fill the gap. One of them is coal. Will the phase-out bring the expansion of coal thus decelerating the pace of achieving the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020?

No. We have to consider the emissions trading system. There is a defined cap for the emissions in the EU by 2020. And the production of electricity is part of the emission trading system. There is a certain amount of emission certificates which is allocated to the power plants. If a utility company decides to invest into a coal power plant, of course they have to buy the emissions certificates for the power plant as well. Nobody really knows how the price of the certificates will develop.

Nowadays the prices of the certificates are very low and it seems to be profitable to invest into a coal power plant. There are also many gas power plants that have been built or are under construction in Germany.

This is maybe because the companies await the rise in the prices of the emission certificates when less and less of them will be allocated. So if somebody says that a new coal power plant will cause a rise in CO2 emission, it is not true because the amount is defined and no more emission certificates will be allocated just because a new power plant is being built.

A nuclear power plant does not reduce the carbon dioxide emissions either. Nuclear plants simply do not buy any carbon dioxide certificates and in fact the use of the nuclear power lowers the price of the certificates. I have never heard about this aspect in the Czech public discussion.

In Germany this aspect was publicly discussed already before Fukushima when the government supported the expansion of the nuclear power plants lifetime and was explaining that it will decrease the carbon dioxide emission – but this was not true. The carbon dioxide certificates get cheaper with expanding the use of the nuclear power. You could see it after Fukushima when the certificates immediately became more expensive by nearly 2 euros per tonne.

Another way to fill the gap is renewable energy. To which extent is Germany fulfilling the 2020 target for renewables?

Germany has nearly 20 % of renewable energy in the electricity production; it was 17 % by the end of 2010. However, the 20-20-20 bill does not only consider electricity production but the share of the renewable energy in the final electricity consumption which means electricity, heat and mobility. And in this respect, Germany is far away from having reached the 20 % – at the moment the country is at 11 %. But Germany does not have to reach 20 % as each country has its individual goals. It is 18 % for Germany which has to be reached in 2020 in comparison to 1990.

What is the role of the solar energy in German renewables? Similar to the Czech Republic, in Germany there has also been a boom of the photovoltaics. Is it profitable to support solar energy even though the geographical conditions are not ideal for that in Germany?

Photovoltaics are for sure not the most efficient way to produce renewable energy in Germany because considering that they contribute only 14.2 % to the overall renewable electricity production, their share in subsidies for renewables is 38.6 %. If we consider the current situation it is not so easy for Germany to install solar panels for example in Spain or North Africa because nowadays we do not have sufficient transmission capacities to bring the electricity to Germany. But it is one of the concepts for the future how to realise the idea to produce the renewable energy where it is the most efficient and to transmit it to other regions.

Is it possible to realise similar project as for example the Desertec concept focusing on North-South interconnection and the collective use of solar energy from North Africa and wind energy from North-West Europe?

Yes, it is technically possible already today. However if you see the map, you see that some of the countries supposed to take part have a problem with political instability. So we are rather facing political issues than the technical ones in this question.

The Fraunhofer-Institute for Wind Energy and Energy System Technology institute in Germany has calculated that using renewable technologies available today and a super grid in Europe and North Africa, the price of one MWh fed into the German grid is around 50€. That's very close to today's electricity price at the energy exchange.

But there are also other problems because we would need to strengthen the transmission grid. In Germany this would face a strong opposition of the population of course because usually people want to have clean energy but nobody wants to have wind mills or transmission lines in his garden.

You mentioned before that despite the usual notions, nuclear power does not push down the electricity price in favour of the customer. What is the reason for that?

The price of electricity is formed at the energy exchange and it is always determined by the most expensive power plant which is necessary to meet demand. So we start with those power plants having the lowest marginal variable generation costs and those are usually the nuclear power plants. Then we take the next more expensive power plants which are for example the lignite power plants. And usually it is the gas power plant which is the most expensive and determines the price of electricity. Nuclear power plants are hardly ever the ones deciding the price.

Every power plant gets paid the price which is necessary to pay the most expensive power plant, the so-called marginal power plant. Therefore operating a nuclear power plant is highly attractive for its owner.

If you replace the capacity of a nuclear power plant for example by the capacity of a coal power plant, the price will not change because it is still the natural gas power plant being the most expensive one and deciding about the price. It is a question of capacity. You need sufficient generation capacity in order to keep the prices low.

But if you provide this capacity by nuclear power plants, coal power plants or any other power plant with low variable cost, it will not have an impact on the price. Now somebody can say that when the German power plants were switched off after Fukushima, the prices went up, but this was because the capacity was not replaced by cheap power plants as for example coal but from the power plants which were not in operation before, being outside the marginal price, for example gas power plants.

This is a question of who gains and who pays. When somebody says that the nuclear power plant is cheap, it is for the owner but not necessarily for the consumer.More info at solarserdar@gmail.com

Croatian Center of Renewable Energy Sources (CCRES)

Električna vozila i pogonske tehnologije

Električna vozila (EV)

U Hrvatskoj se registrirani električni automobili mogu pobrojiti na prste jedne ruke. S olakšicama bi ih bilo malo više, ali ipak ne toliko da bi se država morala bojati bankrota.Hrvatska je, naime, među rijetkim državama koje ne nude baš nikakve subvencije ni porezne olakšice, pa je tim modelima bitna prepreka na putu prema kupcima prvenstveno visoka cijena.

Po broju registriranih ''EV'' vodi Njemačka, gdje je registrirano 1020 vozila, bez obzira na subvenciju od samo 380 eura. Nižu ima samo Češka – 271 euro – sa 43 registrirana električna automobila. Europski se prosjek kreće oko 5000 eura. S druge strane, bez obzira na olakšice veće od 20.000 eura, u Danskoj su registrirana samo 283 elektromobila. Norveških 17.524 eura olakšica pomoglo je registraciji 850 strujića. Italija je s olakšicom od 1200 eura "udomila" samo 103, dok su u Španjolskoj (sa 6500 eura olakšica) registrirana 122.Nevladine organizacije koje se bave održivim prometom pozivaju na subvencije kojima bi se poduprli potrošači koji žele kupiti električne automobile, uključujući primjerice niži PDV. Oni bi također trebali biti izuzeti iz plaćanja cestarina, te bi im trebalo omogućiti korištenje traka za autobuse, barem dok automobili ne krenu u masovnu proizvodnju.

Šarolikost subvencija i poreznih olakšica, u usporedbi s jednako slabom prodajom električnih vozila, govore da ni samo državni poticaji ne mogu prosječnog vozača okrenuti prema automobilu na struju. No, u ovom trenutku olakšice na kupnju elektromobila stvar su ugleda, volje za napretkom i mišljenja smo da Hrvatska taj korak treba napraviti. A da bi to povuklo i veći broj registriranih električnih vozila, valja pričekati da napredak tehnologije snizi cijenu baterije i poveća autonomiju ''EV'', tako da se oni cijenom i dosegom mogu mjeriti s klasičnim automobilima.

Električna vozila i pogonske tehnologije

Električna vozila (EV) se razlikuju od konvencionalnih motora s unutrašnjim izgaranjem (MUI) u djelu koji se tiče pogonskog sustava. Umjesto motora s unutrašnjim izgaranjem i klasičnih spremnika za gorivo, električna vozila opremljena su električnim motorima i baterijama.

Baterija je srce električnog vozila

Izvor električne energije pohranjen je u litij – ionskim baterijama o čijem kapacitetu ovisi autonomnost kretanja električnog vozila. Već danas su skladišni kapaciteti baterija komercijalnih paketa baterija dovoljni da mogu pokriti dnevne potrebe korištenja osobnog vozila. Svjetski proizvođači električnih baterija najavljuju intenzivno povećanje kapaciteta baterija u skoroj budućnosti te se očekuje autonomnost kretanja do 350 km s jednim punjenjem baterija. Očekivano trajanje baterija procjenjuje se na oko 7-10 godina.

Nove performanse vožnje

Elektromotor u pravilu omogućuje linearno i besprekidno ubrzavanje vozila sa znatno većom karakteristikom vuče u odnosu na konvencionalna vozila. S druge strane, električni automobili ne posjeduju mjenjačke kutije. Eliminacija mjenjačke kutije znatno smanjuje masu automobila, što ujedno dovodi do znatno manje potrošnje goriva.

Potrošnja energije

Električna vozila troše znatno manje energije nego vozila na fosilna goriva

Ukupna potrošnja energije električnog vozila od spremnika do kotača (engl. „Tank– To–Wheel“), tzv. finalna energija, iznosi tri puta manje nego kod vozila na fosilna goriva (benzinska, dizelska) iste težine i performansi.

Dodatna energija potrebna je za proizvodnju fosilnih goriva i električne energije te za njihovu distribuciju. Ukoliko se utrošku energije u samom vozilu doda i energije potrebna za proizvodnju i distribuciju finalnih oblika energije (benzina, dizela, električne energije, itd), što odgovara tzv. primarnoj potrošnji energije (eng. Well-to-Wheel analiza), dolazi do povećane primarne potrošnje energije za 20 - 80 posto kod konvencionalnih vozila pogonjenih fosilnih gorivima u odnosu na električna vozila, uspoređujući pri tomu vozila jednakih težina i performansi (20% = dizel – olovo usporedba, 80% = benzin – litij usporedba).

Emisije CO2

Električna vozila generiraju znatno niže emisije CO2 i drugih stakleničkih plinova i štetnih polutanata nego što je to u slučaju konvencionalnih vozila.

Na osnovi „Tank-To-Wheel“ potrošnje, električna vozila ne proizvode štetne i stakleničke plinove te samim time značajno smanjuju zagađenja u odnosu na konvencionalna vozila.

Ukoliko se razmotri ukupna proizvodnja emisija CO2 na osnovi „Well-To Wheel“ potrošnje goriva, dakle od proizvodnje primarne energije pa do konačne prenesene na kotače vozila, električna vozila u prosjeku proizvode tek polovicu emisija CO2 u usporedbi s konvencionalnim vozilima . Pri tomu je u usporedbi za proizvodnju električne energije uzet u obzir tipični miks primarnih oblika energije, raspoloživih na europskom tržištu.

Prosječna emisija stakleničkih plinova po kWh proizvedene električne energije u 2006. godini u EU iznosila je 443 gCO2/kWh, dok je u Hrvatskoj u 2008. godini ta ista emisija iznosila 550 gCO2/kWh proizvedene električne energije.

Uzimajući u obzir prosječnu potrošnju finalne energije električnih vozila u iznosu od 12,5 kWh/100km te prosječne emisije CO2 po kWh proizvedene električne energije u nekim zemljama članicama EU-a dobivene su specifične emisije CO2 po prijeđenom kilometru.

Europska unija provodi jasnu politiku održivog prometnog sustava upravo kroz uvođenje vrlo egzaktnih ciljeva vezanih uz ograničenje emisija stakleničkih plinova, a poglavito ugljičnog dioksida, s vremenskim horizontom do 2020. godine.

Podizanje konkurentnosti transportnog sustava

Korištenjem električnih vozila se u dugoročnoj perspektivi očekuje znatno povećanje konkurentnosti prometnog sektora i to prvenstveno zbog nižih troškova korištenja vozila tijekom ukupnog životnog vijeka. S obzirom na ograničenost zaliha naftnih derivata, za očekivati je da će ionako izuzetno volatilna cijena naftnih derivata nastaviti rasti. Cijena električne energije također će rasti u budućnosti, no zasigurno znatno konzervativnije od cijena naftnih derivata.

Električna vozila su trenutno skuplja od konvencionalnih i to uglavnom zbog danas relativno skupih baterija. No, svjetski proizvođači baterija najavljuju drastično smanjenje troškova proizvodnje baterija u bližoj budućnosti.

Električna vozila su već danas u mogućnosti ponuditi povoljniju ukupnu cijenu (engl. Total Cost of Ownership), ukoliko niži operativni troškovi nadilaze viši trošak kupnje vozila. Stoga korisnici električnog vozila s većom godišnjom kilometražom mogu znatno prije amortizirati ukupnu cijenu električnog vozila u odnosu na konvencionalna.

Infrastruktura i punjenje

Za razliku od svih ostalih alternativnih goriva, električna vozila zahtijevaju znatno manja ulaganja i napore u razvoj infrastrukture za njihovo punjenje. Naime, električna energija je dostupna u svakom kućanstvu, na radnom mjestu, šoping centru ili u centru grada.

U odnosu na postojeći raspored i zastupljenost klasičnih benzinskih postaja za konvencionalna vozila, gustoća zastupljenosti punionica za električna vozila na razini urbanih područja bit će znatno veća. Razlog tome je karakteristika procesa punjenja električnih vozila, koji je znatno duži te može trajati i do 3 sata na punionicama karakterističnim za instalaciju na urbanim površinama (poput javnih parkinga, garaža, trgovačkih centara, kino dvorana, logističkih centara, i dr.). Zbog toga će se u budućnosti za potrebe zadovoljavanje potreba vozila za električnom energijom trebati osigurati znatno veći broj elektro punionica.

Za sada u Republici Hrvatskoj imamo samo dvije javne punionice za Električna vozila u Zagrebu i Zadru opremljene s dvije jednofazne utčnice, snage 3,1 kW.

U načelu postoji nekoliko koncepata punjenja električnih vozila koji se razlikuju na temelju dva isključiva i recipročna parametra: cijena punionice i vrijeme punjenja.

Tehnološka dostignuća današnjice omogućavaju punjenje električnog vozila jednakom, pa čak i većom brzinom u odnosu na konvencionalna vozila putem punionica na principu zamjene baterija. S obzirom na njihovu specifičnost, takve punionice zahtijevaju širi konsenzus svjetske automobilske industrije te je za očekivati da će se njihovo masovno korištenje početi odvijati tek iza 2020. godine.

U posljednje vrijeme su razvijene i punionice za tzv. brzo punjenje putem kojeg se baterije električnih vozila mogu napuniti u roku od 30 minuta. Snage takvih punionica iznose od 50 – 250 kW, a u distribucijskoj mreži se spajaju se na trofaznu razinu napona od 400 V/63 A.
Većina punionica podesnih za instalaciju na javnim gradskim površinama i u garažama omogućava tzv. srednju brzinu punjenja u trajanju do 3 h. Takve punionice moguće je spojiti na trofazni priključak 230V/16A, čija se snaga kreće do 11 kW.

Za očekivati je da će dio vlasnika vozila koji posjeduju vlastite garaže električna vozila puniti kod kuće putem tzv. kućnih punionica, koje omogućavaju punjenje baterije vozila u trajanju od 6 do 8 sati. Kućne punionice se spajaju na standardni jednofazni kućni priključak 230V/16 A, čija se snaga kreće od 2,3 do 3,7 kW.

Smanjenje ovisnosti o naftnim derivatima

Samo manji dio električne energije je proizveden iz naftnih derivata. S druge strane, urbani promet (s dnevnom kilometražom manjom od 50 km) na svjetskoj razini predstavlja od 75 do 80 posto kilometraže automobila te doprinosi s oko 20 posto ukupnoj svjetskoj potrošnji naftnih derivata.

Zbog toga bi se svjetska potrošnja naftnih derivata smanjila za 20posto ukoliko bi sav urbani promet bio supstituiran s električnim vozilima. Time bi se značajno smanjila ovisnost o naftnim derivatima.

Harmonizacija s jedinstvenom europskom prometnom politikom

Cilj europske politike razvoja održivog transporta je uspostava jedinstvenog prometnog sustava koji će zadovoljavati socijalne i gospodarske potrebe za mobilnošću ekonomskih sustava uz istovremeno udovoljavanje sve strožim ekološkim kriterijima.

Europska unija prepoznala je problem ekspanzivnog rasta prometnog sektora, a samim time i njegova negativnog utjecaja na okoliš. Kako bi se postavili temelji razvoja održivog transportnog sustava, donesena je direktiva 2009/33/EC o promociji čistih i energetski učinkovitih vozila. Cilj direktive je, osim promocije vozila spomenutih karakteristika, i obvezati sve ključne sudionike na standardizaciju vozila i infrastrukture te raznim poticajnim mjerama osigurati potrebnu razinu potražnje radi smanjenja proizvodne cijene vozila.

Nastavno na direktivu 2009/33/EC, krajem travnja 2010. godine donesena je europska Strategija za čista i energetski učinkovita vozila (COM(2010)186 final). Strategija predstavlja adekvatan i tehnološki neutralan institucionalno – politički okvir kojim će se poduprijeti penetracija čistih i energetski učinkovitih vozila u nadolazećem desetljeću.

Pri tome se Strategijom paralelno podupiru dva smjera i to: razvoj čistih i energetski učinkovitijih vozila na konvencionalni pogon s motorom na unutrašnje izgaranje (poglavito s pogonom na biogoriva, UNP i SPP) te potpora razvoju novih tehnologija s ultra niskim negativnim utjecajem na okoliš (elektromobili i vozila s pogonom na vodikove ćelije).

Dok je paradigma o uvođenju biogoriva u promet već dobro poznata (10% biogoriva u prometu do 2020. godine obveza je svih zemalja članica EU-a), najnoviji rezultati studije (IHS – Global Insight: Battery Elelctric and Plug – in hybrid Vehicles Study), provedeni uoči donošenja Strategije, ukazuju na očekivanu penetraciju elektromobila u iznosu od 1 do 2 posto do 2020. godine, odnosno 11 – 30 posto do 2030. godine od ukupnog broja novo prodanih automobila.

Što se pak tiče penetracije tzv. plug–in hibrida njihov tržišni udio se procjenjuje na oko 2 posto do 2020. godine, odnosno 5 – 20 posto do 2030. godine u ukupnom broju novo prodanih automobila. Navedeni trendovi predstavljaju prosječni potencijal europskog tržišta, a budući da još uvijek ne postoji egzaktan cilj kojem će se jedinstveno stremiti, dovitljivost i proaktivnost pojedinaca kao i organizacija na pojedinim tržištima, omogućit će stjecanje komparativnih prednosti kako na domaćem tako na regionalnom, ali i globalnom tržištu.

Republika Hrvatska je krajem 2009. godine donijela i usvojila Strategiju energetskog razvoja (NN br. 130/09). Strategija energetskog razvoja u sektoru prijevoza može se realizirati kroz povećanje energetske učinkovitosti, promoviranje štednje energije i korištenje goriva iz obnovljivih izvora. Sukladno strateškim ciljevima, raznim mjerama će se poticati primjena vozila s emisijama ispod 120 g CO2/km, električna vozila, hibridna vozila (za pravne i fizičke osobe) putem subvencije investicija, ali i osiguravanjem besplatnih parkirnih mjesta, pravom na korištenje žutih traka i slično.

Više informacija na našim stranicama :

http://solarserdar.blogspot.com/2011/08/who-killed-electric-car.html

http://solarserdar.blogspot.com/2011/11/dok-ing-automotiv.html

HRVATSKI CENTAR OBNOVLJIVIH IZVORA ENERGIJE (HCOIE)

Energy sources Republic of Croatia

Croatia,

officially the Republic of Croatia,

is a unitary democratic parliamentary republic in Europe at the crossroads of the Mitteleuropa, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean. Its capital and largest city is Zagreb. The country is divided into 20 counties and the city of Zagreb. Croatia covers 56,594 square kilometres (21,851 sq mi) and has diverse, mostly continental and Mediterranean climates. Croatia's Adriatic Sea coast is long and traced by more than a thousand islands.

Source: CCRES

Energy sources

Total installed electricity capacity (2004): 4049 MW

• Hydro-electric: 51%
• Thermal: 40% (16% Oil, 15% Coal, 9% Natural Gas)
• Nuclear: 9%
  

Total Primary Energy Supply 2006:

• Liquid Fuels: 44%
• Hydro: 15%
• Natural Gas: 24%
• Coal: 8%
• Fuel wood: 4%
• Electricity: 5%

The total primary energy supply in Croatia up to 2006 was 409.08 PJ while in 2005 it was 411.6 PJ. RES other than fuel-wood and hydropower represented 0.06% of the total supply.

The total electricity consumption reached 18 TWh in 2006, but the share of RES without large HPP was only 0.68%, with small HPP accounting for 54%; wind-power, 0.11% and landfill gas, 0.03%.

Reliance

Croatia highly depends on energy imports and during the recent years import is continuously having an upward trend. In 2005 the total energy import increased by 2.9% with respect to 2004. The imports of electrical energy, petroleum products and natural gas rose, while the imports of coal, coke and crude oil fell. The greatest increase of 65% was that of the electricity, while the petroleum products and natural gas rose less than 10%. During the six year period (1999-2005) the total energy import in Croatia grew at an average annual rate of 5.6%, with a high average increase rate of 36% in petroleum products. The electricity import also grew rapidly at an average annual rate of 14.8 percent.

In 2007, the import/export balance by energy source was as follows (all units ktoe):

• Oil: 5866.9 / 1898.6
• Natural Gas: 648.3 / 441.3
• Solid Fuels: 688.0 / 0.0
• Electricity: 639.9 / 124.2

Source: CCRES

Extend network

National electrification rate ( 2000): 99%

Although the Republic of Croatia is almost completely electrified, there are still regions which do not have access to the electricity network or where the network capacity is insufficient. For the most part such areas are under special care of the state (i.e. underdeveloped, devastated by war, depopulated), on islands or in mountainous regions.

Capacity concerns

There is an increasing dependency on electricity import in Croatia as the result of growing consumption and lack of new investment in power generation capacities. In the recent years Croatia imports more than 20% of electricity.

A 4.1% increase in electricity imports compared to the previous year was observed in 2004. The losses in transmission and distribution of energy consumption increased in the total primary energy supply for 2004. Coal consumption increased dramatically in this period also, by 107.8%.

Whilst increases in GDP were observes corollary to the increase in energy demand, the energy intensity of Croatia is 24% higher than the EU average, meaning the continued rise in GDP is not sustainable.

Renewable energy

Hydropower
Renewable energy sources cover a large share of electricity generation in Croatia, driven by the significant number of hydroelectric power plants in the country. Total hydropower installed capacity was 2,058 MW in 2006, dominated by large HPPs, with hydropower generation accounting for 6,070 GWh in 2006.

Wind power
The Croatian wind sector has seen a large expansion in recent years, reaching 17.2 MW of total installed capacity in 2006, coupled with a generation level of 20 GWh.
There is a relatively high potential for wind power in Croatia. Currently research is being carried out on the potential construction of wind farms of a total installed capacity of about 1,500 MW, however in order to maintain the secure operation of the electricity system it is very probable that only some of these projects will be realized.

Biomass energy
Croatia has significant potential for biomass and geothermal, with 9.39 TWh per annum potential electricity production in the case of biomass and 870 MW potential capacity in the case of geothermal. Forests cover more than 40 % of Croatian territory, which means that potentials for biomass use are significant. Within the national energy program BIOEN it has been demonstrated that by 2030 at least 15 % of the total energy consumed could be obtained from biomass. It will be used for production of thermal energy and electricity.

Solar energy
It is expected to contribute mainly in thermal energy production; primarily in low temperature appliances and the passive solar architecture will reduce the need for thermal energy in buildings. Most of the installed solar capacity of Croatia (some 12,000-15,000m3) is off grid, with the 3 grid-connected systems in the north of the country contributing 48.8kW. A database of solar radiation in the country was published by the Hrjove Pozar Energy Institute, in conjunction with the University of Split, in 2006. According to this survey, the total solar energy potential of Croatia is 100PJ.

Geothermal energy
Croatia has some geothermal reservoirs in the north of the country, many having high value temperature gradients. According to studies conducted under the National Energy Program GEOEN, the total energy potential is 839 MWt, with the potential for power generation from geothermal sources being 48MW.

Energy efficiency

There are overall saving potentials in industrial and residential sectors. Energy efficiency measures include the use of low-energy bulbs and refrigerators in households. The First National Communication from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change expects these measures to save up to 600GWh by 2030. Increases in efficiency can also be made in industrial electric motors (up to 7.5%, or a saving of 254 GWh in 2010) as well as increased uptake of low-temperature heat generation, and implementing demand-side management techniques in non-heat electricity use.

Ownership

Electricity
The Electricity Market Act prescribes dynamics of electricity market liberalization. There are two groups of customers in Croatia: eligible and tariff customers. Since July 2008, all customers are deemed eligible customers and can choose a supplier on a free market and negotiate the electricity price. The Electricity Market Act also introduces the concept of a privileged producer, a status that can be obtained by a producer which simultaneously produces electricity and heat in an individual generation facility or utilises waste or renewable energy sources in an economical way while taking into account measures of environmental protection.

However, the Croatian energy sector is characterized by being owned in its majority by the state, except for natural gas distribution and retail sale of petroleum products, which, together with the distribution of LPGT, are partially in private hands.

In accordance with the energy legislation, Hrvatska Elektroprivreda d.d. (HEP) was transformed in 2002 into the HEP Group, a system of affiliated companies performing core electric activities and auxiliary activities. The HEP Group is a holding consisting of the parent company (HEP) and its subsidiary companies over which HEP exercises prevailing control: HEP Production, HEP Transmission, HEP Distribution, HEP Supply, HEP Gas, HEP District Heating, Sisak District Heating. The privatization of HEP will be performed in accordance with the HEP Privatization Act, www.hep.hr/hep/en/news/default.aspx

Oil & gas
The INA Group is the state-owned holding company that controls Croatia's oil and gas exploration, production, transportation, trading, refining, and retailing. INA d.d. is the sole company producing and importing gas (and oil) in Croatia. INA owns 38% of the oil pipeline systems. INA was partially privatized in 2003 when Hungarian oil company MOL bought 25% plus one share which offered the best tender within the shortlisted candidates.
www.ina.hr/default.aspx

Competition

The competition in power generation was introduced by the Law on Electricity Market (Official Gazette No. 68/01, 177/04). The Electricity Market Act defines the role of the distributions system operator, the transmission system operator, the market operator and the provider. The energy activities are performed as market activities (generation of electricity for privileged buyers, supply of electricity to privileged buyers, and marketing, intermediation and representation on the electricity market) and as regulated activities which are performed as public services (generation of electricity for tariff buyers, transmission of electricity, distribution of electricity, managing electricity market, supply of electricity for tariff buyers).

Currently, three companies have been granted permits to generate electricity: HEP Proizvodnja (member of the HEP Group), TE Plomin doo (member of the HEP Group), and INA Industrija nafte dd. However, the HEP Group still has a factual monopoly in transmission, distribution and sale of electricity, as only members of the HEP Group have been granted permits for the performance of activities of transmission of electricity, distribution of electricity, managing of electro energetic system, and organisation of electricity market.

Energy framework

The Energy Strategy of Croatia was adopted by the Croatian Parliament on March 2002, for the period of 10 years. The principal objectives of the energy policy of the Republic of Croatia are stated in the Energy Sector Development Strategy (Official Gazette 38/2002 – summary). Some of the main objectives of the Energy Strategy are listed below:

• Improvement of energy efficiency from the production, transformation, transmission and transport to distribution and consumption of energy;
• Utilization of renewable sources of energy which will be in accordance with sources, technological development and economic policy as a whole;
• Environmental protection, which in the energy sector implies the primary action in connection with energy efficiency, renewable sources, choice of energy-generating products and application of state-of-the-art protection technologies, quality legislation and supervision, the public opinion and education and promotion of best practices.

Support to RES
In accordance with EU Directive on the promotion of the electricity produced from renewable energy source 2001/77/EC Croatia is obliged to set its share of RES in total energy consumption in 2010. In alliance with business indicators the recommended target is 1100 GWh of electricity from RES, or 5,8% of total energy consumption in Croatia in 2010 (excluding large scale hydro power plants).

Following this, a new system for stimulation of production of electricity from RES was introduced. The new system started in 2007 when Croatia has introduced the Tariff system for the production of electricity from renewable energy sources and cogeneration (OG 33/07).

Energy Efficiency Programmes
Croatia ratified the Kyoto Protocol in 27 April 2007. Croatia is now obliged to reduce its emissions 5% in relation to the base year over the commitment period 2008-2012 and energy efficiency measures are expected to play a crucial role in fulfilment of these obligations.

The important place of energy efficiency in overall Croatian energy policy is also confirmed by the national energy programmes, established in 1997. Programmes dealing with energy efficiency are KOGEN, MIEE, KUENcts, TRANCO and KUENzgrada.

Energy debates

No debates are currently in progress on Croatian energy legislation.

Energy studies

In 2003, the Ministry of the Economy and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Physical Planning of the Republic of Croatia, consulted by the Energy Institute Hrvoje Poaar, established the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund.

It is a structured extra budgetary fund which finances projects and activities in three areas:

• Environmental protection
• Energy efficiency
• Renewable energy sources

On the 4th February 2005 the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund and the Croatian Bank for Reconstruction and Development (HBOR) signed an Interest Rate Subsidy Agreement for loans intended for environmental protection, energy efficiency and renewable energy resources projects.

Role of government

The Croatian Parliament determines and passes the legal framework for the energy sector, receives reports directly from the Croatian Energy Regulatory Council, reviews and approves financial proposals and global energy policy stated in Energy Sector Development Strategy.

The Government of the Republic of Croatia submits to the Parliament proposals for financing energy needs, establishes the energy policy including principles of environmental protection, which also includes energy efficiency and energy production from renewables sources.

Government agencies

Ministry of Economy, Labor and Entrepreneurship

The Ministry of Economy, Labor and Entrepreneurship is the governmental body responsible for energy. This Ministry gives the Preliminary Energy Approval and Energy Approval and leads the register of projects and plants for the use of Renewable Energy Sources and Cogeneration and Eligible Producers. This Ministry is also responsible for renewable energy sources that cover thermal energy, energy efficiency and biofuels in the part of energy politics.
www.mingorp.hr

Ministry of Environmental Protection, Physical Planning and Construction

The Ministry of Environmental Protection, Physical Planning and Construction is the governmental body responsible for environmental protection and construction. This Ministry, in cooperation with its local offices accepts Environment impact studies and gives Location permits, Building permits, and Operating licences for every kind of constructions, including renewable energy sources.
www.mzopu.hr

Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund

The Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund was established by virtue of the Act on the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund (OG 107/03). The Fund co-finances programmes, projects and activities in the field of environmental protection, renewable energy sources and energy efficiency. The Act stipulates the conditions for its operations.
www.fzoeu.hr

Energy procedure

The new Strategy for Energy Development, The Act On Efficient Use Of Energy, The Act On Biofuels, Energy Efficiency Master Plan 2008-2016, First Energy Efficiency National Action Plan 2008-2010, legislation on renewable energy sources for production of thermal energy, legislation regarding energy savings in buildings and revision of current legislation on renewable energy sources for production of electrical energy.

Energy regulator

The Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA) was established in 2004 and replaced the former Council for Regulation of Energy Activities (VRED) established in 2001.

www.hera.hr/english/html/index.html

Degree of independence

The Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (HERA) was formally established by the law as an independent non-profit institution. The five members of HERA Management Board are proposed by the Croatian Government and appointed by the Parliament, with the mandate of 5 years.

Regulatory framework

The legislative framework in the electricity supply sector in the Republic of Croatia is to a great extent aligned with the EU legislation. It includes the Energy Act (OG 68/01, 177/04 and 76/07), the Electricity Market Act (OG 177/04 and 76/07), the Act on the Regulation of Energy Activities (OG 177/04 and 76/07) and a series of subordinate regulations.

Regulatory roles

The main regulator's roles and tasks are:

• issuing licences for carrying out energy activities,
• activities aimed at ensuring transparent and non-discriminatory functioning of the energy market,
• activities aimed at ensuring transparent and non-discriminatory performance of energy activities subject to public service obligation,
• carrying out activities related to regulation of energy prices to be set on the basis of tariff systems.

Energy regulation role

The Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship has to enact the Regulation on Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources and Cogeneration.

The Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship determines licensing procedure and requirements.

The Government determines the tariffs for regulated energy activities. Tariffs are proposed by the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship, upon the opinion of the Regulator.

The Croatian Energy Market Operator (HROTE) was established in March 2005 to oversee the organisation of the electricity market as a public service. The organisation is overseen by the HERA.

Regulatory barriers

Only limited progress can be reported in the area of renewable energy sources (RES). The 2008 target of biofuels for 2008 has been set at 1.21% of the overall fuel consumption on the domestic market.

Administrative capacity in energy efficiency and RES needs significant strengthening.

Limited progress has been made in the field of energy efficiency. Implementing legislation related to energy labelling of household appliances has been enacted. Croatia still needs to ensure compliance related to high-efficiency cogeneration (CHP), energy end-use efficiency and energy services. No progress has been made in transposition of the acquis related to the energy performance of buildings.

1. Croatia Energy Regulatory Agency (CERA)
2. Croatian Bank for Reconstruction and Development (HBOR)
3. Croatian Energy Market Operator (HROTE)
4. Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency (CERA)
5. Croatian Environment Agency (AZO)
6. Croatian Solar Energy Association (Croatian Solar Energy Association)
7. Energy and Environmental Protection Institute (EKONERG)
8. Energy Institute (EIHP)
9. Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar (EIHP)
10. HEP (HEP)
11. HEP ESCO (HEP ESCO)
12. Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship
13. Ministry of Environmental Protection and Physical Planning and Construction

Links

1. REN21 Country Profile
2. ELDIS Country Profile
3. CIA Factbook
4. Wikipedia Country Profile
5. EIA Country Energy Profile
6. FCO Country Profile
7. ODYSSEE Energy Efficiency Country Profile (PDF file)
8. UN (ESA) National Information/National Report
9. ECOI Country Profile
10. World Bank Documents
11. EBRD Country Profile

Source: CCRES

More info at solarserdar@gmail.com

Croatian Center of Renewable Energy Sources (CCRES)