Today’s renewable energy news includes announcements on 360 MW energy storage tender in Maine, Renner Energies, Koloma, Natural Hydrogen Exploration in the Philippines, among others.
Maine Plans First 360 MW Energy Storage Tender
Maine’s Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has proposed the state’s first competitive energy storage solicitation, targeting up to 360 MW of new capacity. The plan was submitted to the Maine Public Utilities Commission on July 20, 2026, with regulators given up to 120 days to determine whether the proposed request for proposals complies with state law. The procurement could more than double Maine’s existing storage capacity and advance its target of deploying 400 MW by 2030, equivalent to roughly 20 percent of the state’s 2021 peak electricity demand. Projects will be assessed for their ability to reduce ratepayer costs, while local economic and workforce benefits, environmental impacts and safety will also be considered before contracts are awarded.
Renner Secures Financing for 12 MW Belgian BESS
Renner Energies has secured debt financing from Triodos Bank for its first battery energy storage system (BESS), located in Virton, Belgium. The project will provide 12 MW/24 MWh of storage, equivalent to 2 hours of discharge capacity. Construction began in November 2025, with commissioning scheduled for summer 2026. The installation includes 72 outdoor battery racks arranged across 12 rows, supported by 3 outdoor inverters and 3 transformers. Alfen is delivering the project on a turnkey basis, including civil works and grid connection to local distribution system operator Ores. The battery will enhance grid flexibility and enable participation in multiple energy markets, marking an important expansion for Renner Energies beyond its established wind and solar activities.
Koloma Expands Natural Hydrogen Exploration in the Philippines with Advanced Seismic Surveys
Koloma is accelerating natural hydrogen exploration in the Philippines by launching extensive geophysical surveys across its exploration blocks in Central Luzon. The program includes aerogravity, magnetic and 2D seismic surveys to identify subsurface hydrogen resources and advance future drilling activities. Koloma secured two hydrogen exploration Service Contracts in October 2025 as part of the Philippines’ first competitive bid round for natural hydrogen. The expanded exploration campaign supports the country’s efforts to develop indigenous low-carbon energy resources, strengthen energy security, and position the Philippines among the early adopters of naturally occurring hydrogen as a potential clean energy source.
Ford and Geely Form Spain JV to Build Five Next-Generation Multi-Energy Vehicles
Ford and Geely Auto have agreed to establish a manufacturing joint venture at Ford’s Valencia plant in Spain, subject to regulatory approval. Ford will own 66 percent of the venture and Geely 34 percent. Production is expected to begin in the first half of 2027, with five vehicles scheduled for launch by 2028, including two Geely electric SUVs, Ford’s Kuga plug-in hybrid, a new Bronco SUV, and a jointly developed multi-energy crossover. The partnership aims to improve factory utilization, secure long-term employment, strengthen European manufacturing, and accelerate development of electric, hybrid and other low-emission vehicles.
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