Week of August 14, 2023
Wind Industry in Crisis as Problems Mount
The wind power industry, crucial for meeting climate goals, is experiencing market challenges with rising costs and logistical issues leading to scrapped contracts and project delays, particularly in offshore ventures.
Recent delays or disruptions have affected at least 10 offshore projects in the U.S. and Europe, amounting to around $33 billion in planned expenditure.
The setbacks could hinder the 2030 offshore wind targets set by both the Biden administration and European governments, despite the emphasis on the industry's importance for a cleaner energy transition.
Challenges include inflation, supply-chain backlogs, rising interest rates, long permit and grid connection timelines, and geopolitical issues like the Ukraine war escalating material costs.
EU Importers Face Low Fine for Failing to Report Emissions in Trial Phase
The EU has disclosed the proposed fees for its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) during an 18-month trial period, with fines up to €50 per tonne for importers failing to meet reporting requirements.
The tax, to be fully implemented by 2026, intends to level the playing field between EU businesses paying carbon fees and importers from nations with lesser or no emission charges.
S&P International predicts the CBAM could generate approximately $80 billion annually for the EU by 2040.
The CBAM has received criticism for its low fees, lack of stringent enforcement, and potential complexities that could disadvantage small manufacturers from developing nations.
August 10, 2023
Control Point Associates, Inc. (Control Point), a New Jersey-based land surveying, geospatial, and consulting services firm, has acquired McLaughlin Engineering Company (McLaughlin Engineering Co.), a Florida-based land surveying, hydrographic surveying, land planning, and UAV/aerial photogrammetry services firm. The acquisition of McLaughlin Engineering Co. will help to expand Control Point’s operating footprint into Florida and enhance its service offerings. Richard A. Butkus, Jr., President and Managing Partner of Control Point, commented, "We are delighted to welcome McLaughlin Engineering Co. to our organization. Collaborating with the McLaughlin family enables us to expand our presence into a completely new geographic market while enhancing our land surveying and geospatial expertise through their valuable addition to our ever-growing family."
August 15, 2023
Salas O’Brien, a California-based engineering and technical services firm, has acquired EME Consulting Engineering and Architecture Group, LLC (EME Group), a New York-based professional engineering and sustainability services firm focused on government and institutional clients. The acquisition of EME Group will help to broaden commissioning, MEP, and sustainability services, particularly in New York. Darin Anderson, Chairman and CEO of Salas O’Brien, stated, “Salas O’Brien’s focus on energy efficiency and innovation aligns perfectly with the expertise of EME Group, and we are excited to advance the human experience together. Collectively, our values, visions, and passion will create unlimited opportunities for our clients and team.”
August 14, 2023
RTM Engineering Consultants (RTM), an Illinois-based MEP, Civil, and Structural engineering firm, has acquired Tanner Engineering, a California-based electrical consulting firm specializing in complex electrical engineering design with specific experience in healthcare, alternative energy, and education. The acquisition of Tanner Engineering will allow RTM to enhance its capabilities with existing clients and expand its operating footprint in California, as well as along the West Coast.
August 17, 2023
The Norlee Group (Norlee), a Florida-based provider of electrical and specialty services focused on public works, industrial, commercial, underground, and multi-family projects, backed by White Wolf Capital, has acquired Colwill Engineering (Colwill), a Florida-based contract and engineering design services within the electrical, mechanical, and technology fields. The addition of Colwill to the Norlee platform adds complementary engineering and design capabilities to Norlee’s existing service portfolio.
Volunteers from TYLin and ARUP, in collaboration with Bridges to Prosperity (B2P), have successfully completed construction of the Bishenge (Masuma) Bridge. This 223-foot-long hybrid suspension bridge spans the Gasumo River at the Nyamagabe municipality in Rwanda. The newly constructed Bishenge Bridge will have a positive and lasting impact on those living in the Gishenge, Gakomeye, Kibuga, and Ruhinga communities. With safe, year-round access across the river, children can attend school regularly, businesses can thrive, and essential resources can be accessed. This project empowers local communities and represents a significant step toward their success.
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