Category: Environment

Gradiant Achieves Strong Growth Across Asia in Cleantech Water Treatment during the Pandemic

  • Gradiant demonstrated strong growth during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic
  • Gradiant won 26 new projects in 2021 YTD across the Asia Pacific region
  • Contract wins are in cleantech water treatment solutions with new clients, applications, markets, and geographies, including long-term DBOOM concession agreements
  • Since the onset of the pandemic, Gradiant has secured 56 new projects with a total contract value of over US$514 million
  •  Gradiant’s team has grown to 350 people, with almost all new headcount growth in the Asia Pacific region

Gradiant, an end-to-end cleantech water treatment solutions provider, announced that it has secured 26 new projects in 2021 year-to-date (YTD) across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

Four of the projects will be delivered as design-build-own-operate-manage (DBOOM) contracts for long-term concession periods of up to 20 years. The business growth demonstrates increased demand for advanced water & wastewater treatment during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic.

The new contracts in 2021 YTD are a mix of high-profile clients in the industrial, municipal, and government sectors, including multinational brand owners. Eighteen of the 26 new projects in 2021 YTD are with new clients that have selected Gradiant for the first time to solve their complex water challenges. New applications for Gradiant’s technologies this year have been in lithium mining, semiconductor fabrication, and high complexity industrial wastewater reuse.

“Our business has thrived this year at Gradiant, despite the challenging market dynamics brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Prakash Govindan, Co-Founder and COO of Gradiant. “We have adapted to the evolving needs of the market by taking on new clients to penetrate new strategic COVID-resistant market segments in semiconductors, mining, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Facilities equipped with Gradiant’s SmartOps(TM) asset management and remote monitoring & control systems continue to produce mission-critical water during the COVID-related travel and access restrictions. Since the onset of the pandemic in early 2020 until today, Gradiant has been awarded 56 new projects, delivering a total contract value of over US$514 million. We are proud of these accomplishments while managing through the pandemic – these results are only possible because of the commitment and passion of our team and our customers.”

Gradiant is committed to the Asia Pacific region. Almost all Gradiant’s growth in 2021 YTD has been in Asia Pacific, where the region’s rapid urbanisation and population growth have been driving the demand of clean and sustainable technologies. Gradiant won new contracts to build facilities for the first time in Indonesia, Vietnam, and even Antarctica. Gradiant’s team has grown from 250 people at the end of 2020, to about 350 people in 2021 YTD – almost all headcount growth has been in the Asia Pacific region, mainly in their Singapore Regional HQ and R&D Center.

Research from MSCI(*) has indicated growing attention to sustainability among investors, who have recognised that companies with strong environmental, social and governance practices in Asia are outperforming their counterparts. These regional trends suggest growing need for brand owners to adopt sustainable business practices, placing greater importance for cleantech solutions providers such as Gradiant to support their operations.

“We are experiencing another year of robust growth at Gradiant,” said Luke Johnson, CFO of Gradiant. “Growth remains consistently strong across our strategic market segments in semiconductors, mining, and pharmaceuticals, and our new contract wins support the market’s sustained demand for cleantech solutions and DBOOM concession agreements. We have proven this year that our acquisitions of Sigma Water (Malaysia) and CRS Water (Australia) in 2020 created synergies to access new customers, applications, and geographies, when married to Gradiant’s clean water technologies and project development and financing capabilities.”

* https://www.msci.com/documents/1296102/22910163/MSCI-Investment-Insights-2021-Report.pdf

About Gradiant Corporation
Gradiant is a leading solutions provider and developer of cleantech water projects for advanced water & wastewater treatment. Gradiant’s robust end-to-end solutions and proven technical, delivery, and operations expertise enable cost-effective and sustainable treatment of the most complex water challenges. Gradiant serves its clients around the world from their corporate headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, regional headquarters and R&D center in Singapore, and its operating subsidiaries Gradiant India (Chennai), Gradiant China (Shanghai, Ningbo), Sigma Water (Malaysia), CRS Water (Australia), Gradiant Energy Services (Houston, Midland, Texas, USA), and Gradiant Middle East (Saudi Arabia).

Media Inquiries:
Meghan Moore, Communications Manager
Gradiant International Holdings, Singapore
communication@gradiant.com

Sales Inquiries:
Kaarthic Madhavan, VP Sales and Business Development
Gradiant International Holdings, Singapore
kmadhavan@gradiant.com

Public Relations, APAC:
PRecious Communications for Gradiant
Tan Yanchang
gradiant@preciouscomms.com

Rimba Raya Distributes Covid-19 Aid Packages in 14 Villages around Seruyan River

On September 7, 2021, based on the government’s Covid-19 distribution map data, Indonesia still has 3.5% of active cases of Covid-19, out of approximately 4 million confirmed cases. The struggle of various levels of society since the beginning of the pandemic case announced in Indonesia, has a variety of stories. Communities’ ability to suppress the spread of Covid-19 began to be limited due to limited family inclusion. The ‘stay at home’ advice became difficult to implement, with so many necessary insistences need, which cannot be delayed.

Delivery of Covid-19 Assistance Package of Palingkau Village, by Rimba Raya Conservation Staff to the Village Government
Distribution of Rimba Raya Grocery Packages to the community

The use of masks, as one of the efforts to suppress the spread of this virus, is considered less effective if the mask used many times. This occurs where some sectors of society are not able to afford to buy replacement masks as required. Also, while vitamin supplements are known to support the body’s immune system, they are too expensive for many people, who depend on a daily income. Therefore, Rimba Raya seeks to help in these circumstances and distribute assistance to communities in 14 villages around the work area in Seruyan, in an effort to reduce the rate of Covid-19 spread.

In collaboration with the Seruyan Regency Government, from March 2020 to August 2021, Rimba Raya Conservation conducted various activities to help suppress the spread of Covid-19 by distributing aid packages. “During this nearly two-year pandemic, Rimba Raya conducted awareness campaigns, to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in villages that have limited access to information, and also distributed disinfectants, hand sanitizers, 11,002 face masks, as personal protective equipment, 4,514 bottles of vitamin C supplement, 14 thermometer units, and basic groceries for the Seruyan local community who are in need,” said Ajie Dewanto, General Manager of Rimba Raya.

The September 2020 flood hit many villages around Seruyan River, 8 of which are supported by Rimba Raya. 750 packages of basic groceries and vitamin supplements were distributed to impacted communities. Through the local village government, Rimba Raya distributed rice, cooking oil, eggs, instant noodles, canned fish, sugar, and daily vitamins, deemed sufficient to sustain flood affected communities during the pandemic period. One year later, September 2021, Rimba Raya again distributed 1,007 packages of basic groceries in the form of rice, instant noodles and cooking oil to those in need, who are still affected by the pandemic.

Overcoming limited access to health facilities and public information in the pandemic period becomes our common duty to slow the spread of Covid-19. Rimba Raya hopes that the assistance it provides can help reducing the rate of spread in Seruyan. Rimba Raya itself has a Covid-19 Task Force to ensure and monitor the implementation of its program of activities in compliance with health protocols.

Rimba Raya Duty
“By protecting forests, we protect all the life in them and contribute to balancing the global climate. We empower communities to be involved in protecting peat swamp forests. Together we love the earth so that its sustainability is maintained.” Djonni Andhella, President Director of Rimba Raya Conservation.

Editor’s Note
Rimba Raya Conservation empowers the community to be involved in maintaining and preserving peat swamp forest ecosystems with the following approach: Empowered Communities, Healthy Forests, Maintained Climate, and supporting the achievement of the SDG targets in the 14 assisted villages, in 2 sub-districts, Seruyan Hilir District and Sembuluh Lake, in Seruyan Regency, Central Kalimantan.

Health Protocols
This activity is carried out with reference to the COVID-19 Health Protocol. “Wear a mask, keep your safe distance and always wash your hands”.

Contacts:
Frita Junita
Communication Officer Rimba Raya Conservation
Email: rimbarayajakarta@gmail.com Hp: +62 857-1743-7001
www.rimba-raya.com

Rimba Raya Social Media
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rimbarayaproject/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RimbaRayaForest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rimba_raya_

Sunpower’s GI business performed well in 1H 2021 with GI PATMI up 37.0% YoY to RMB91.8 million

Mainboard-listed Sunpower Group Ltd. (Sunpower or the Group), a leading provider of industrial steam with a sizeable portfolio of 100%-recurring, long-term, cash-generating Green Investments (GI) projects that uses innovative integrated environmental protection technologies to facilitate the development of the circular economy and help China attain carbon peak and carbon neutrality, today announced its financial results for the six months to 30 June 2021 (1H 2021).

Results Highlights
Completed disposal of M&S business to unlock value and improved return for shareholders

  • Paid substantial Special Dividend of S$0.2412 per share
  • Recognised gain on disposal of RMB934.0 million
  • Green Investments (GI) is now the principal business of the Group
  •  GI performance remains strong, driven by continued ramp-up of GI plants
  • Total steam sales volume for 1H2021 grew by 73.2% YoY to 3.93 million tons
  •  GI revenue rose 77.3% YoY to record RMB906.6 million
  •  GI EBITDA rose 50.0% YoY to RMB 281.3 million
  • GI PATMI grew 37.0% YoY to RMB91.8 million in 1H 2021
  • GI operating cashflow rose to RMB156.0 million
    Group results boosted by gain on M&S disposal and excellent GI performance
  • PATMI rose 247.2% YoY to RMB602.5 million due to gain on disposal and strong GI results

Group underlying operating cash flow rose 64.7% YoY to RMB265.5 million
Group Financial Highlights (Without Financial Effects of Convertible Bonds and Warrants)
Please see http://sunpower.listedcompany.com/newsroom/20210812_001821_5GD_X3CN815RIZBAT10L.2.PDF

Key Investment Highlights
Leading provider of industrial steam with development strategy aligned with national policies
Within 3 years from the first CB issue in 2017, Sunpower has scaled up to 9 projects in operation and 2 in construction with a proven track record, leading market position and strong brand equity. Its long-term growth strategy is aligned with national policies on CO2 reduction, energy conservation and smog control. Multiple pollution sources can be eliminated with just one centralised GI plant within a circular economy industrial park that helps the park attain zero emissions and allows Sunpower to increase revenue and reduce cost.

Superior GI business model that generates 100%-recurring, long-term income and cash flows
GI’s superior business model is based on exclusive concessions of typically 30 years with first right to renew that confer a strong market position to supply steam, a non-discretionary input product, to a large base of customers that provides resilient counter-cyclical demand, bolstered by technologies that act as entry barriers against competition. Direct B2B arrangements with customers enable GI plants to require either pre-payment or immediate post-payment, and a contractual fuel cost passthrough mechanism that allows reliable long-term profitability across cycles.

Excellent financial performance with high margins and strong cash generation
Sunpower has proven its ability to sustain excellent financial performance with high profitability and strong cash generation.

Well-positioned to gain long-term growth potential
Sunpower is well-positioned to benefit from customers’ natural organic growth as the mandatory closures of small dirty boilers redirect steam demand to its clean centralised GI plants and as more factories relocate to industrial parks served by GI plants. Long-term sustainable growth will come from the large addressable market and strong project pipeline.

Practises ESG and sustainability values in every aspect
Sunpower is committed to better sustainability in its business by incorporating environmental, social and governance (ESG) values it does. In this way, it supports the ecologically sustainable development of China’s economy, and aims to help China achieve its national CO2 emission peak and carbon neutrality targets.

Professional & disciplined management with strong execution and entrepreneurship
The key management are professional and disciplined executives with extensive experience, strong execution capabilities, entrepreneurship and a refined and standardised management approach.

DCP and CDH are strategic institutional investors that support the group
They are among the largest and most experienced private equity investors in China with a strong track record of investing and nurturing many leading companies in China.

Financials
As the GI business went from strength to strength, the strong 1H 2021 performance proved the recurring, high-quality nature of Sunpower’s GI development strategy that is creating sustainable value for the Group in the long-term.

Total steam sales volume grew 73.2% to 3.93 million tons in 1H 2021, boosted by (a) robust rampingup of new plants such as Shantou Phase 1; (b) connections to new customers; and (c) organic expansion of existing customers’ already-resilient businesses.

As a result, GI revenue grew 77.3% YoY to RMB906.6 million. GI EBITDA and GI PATMI grew 50.0% YoY and 37.0% YoY to RMB281.3 million and RMB91.8 million respectively due to Sunpower’s sophisticated management and strong operational capabilities. GI operating cashflow in 1H2021 increased to RMB156.0 million, demonstrating GI’s excellent capabilities of generating recurring cashflows.

Following the disposal, the M&S business was deconsolidated on 30 April 2021. A substantial gain on disposal of RMB934.0 million was recorded, boosting group PATMI to RMB602.5 million in 1H 2021, up 247.2% YoY. Group underlying operating cash flow rose 64.7% YoY to RMB265.5 million.

Business Update
Sunpower supplies industrial steam to a diverse range of industries, such as chemical, printing & dyeing, paper making, F&B, building materials, pharmacy, paint, wood processing, chemical fertilisers, supported by structural demand. It also provides pollution-free civil heating to a large base of households and electricity to the State Grid.

Update on Shantou Project:
– Rapid ramp up of Phase 1 since the beginning of 2021 and will continue to ramp up with connections to additional customers in the Park
– New revenue sources are being added, e.g. compressed air, sludge incineration, sales of waste products, etc
– Phase 2 is expected to commence production in 2021 to meet customers’ robust demand

Shantou Project is Sunpower’s 51%-owned steam and electricity cogeneration plant in the Shantou Textile Circular Economy Industrial Park in Chaonan District of Shantou City, Guangdong Province (the “Park”) with a 38.5 year concession. The combined current designed capacity of Phase 1 (which started commercial operations in 4Q 2020) and Phase 2 (under construction) is 970 tons/hour of steam and 100 MW of electricity, making it the largest project in Sunpower’s GI portfolio.

Shantou Project is one of the key water pollution control and alleviation measures put in place to clean up heavily-polluted Lianjiang River, specially built to supply 128 printing & dyeing companies that qualified to be relocated from their previous sites along Lianjiang River into the Park on an accelerated basis. In addition to controlling air and water pollution along the river, Shantou Project promotes the built-up of circular economy activities in the Park and ensures long-term employment amidst the sustainable development of the area’s dyed textile and garment industry, a pillar industry in Shantou City that has helped make China a major producer of garments such as jeans and women’s wear.

Shantou has large potential as it is the exclusive steam supplier in the park, and the accelerated relocation of local printing & dyeing companies into the park is boosting its ramp-up.

Updates on other GI projects:
– Changrun Project: Steam supply to new large customer Sanli started in May 2021 following the completion of the pipeline connection.
– Yongxing Plant: Commencement of blended sludge combustion in 1Q 2021 improved efficiency and increased revenue.
– Xintai Zhengda Project: The remaining part is under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.
– Xinyuan Plant: The construction of the city heating network system for the newly-added 2 million m2 concession area in Jimo International Trade Park is expected to be completed in 3Q 2021.
– Projects under construction: Tongshan and Shanxi Xinjiang Projects are progressing as planned, and are expected to start operations in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

Outlook
With a stronger balance sheet following the disposal of the M&S business, Sunpower is well positioned to take the GI business to even greater heights. GI is expected to continue to generate 100%-recurring, long-term, high-quality income and cashflows for the Group.

China’s GDP grew 12.7% YoY in 1H 2021 to RMB53.2 trillion. Overall, the economy of China improved in a stable way, and the recovery of the global economy has also led to greater external demand. However, due to the global economic recovery and the impact of easing monetary policy, commodity prices have been continuously increasing this year which pushes up the cost of raw materials and adds pressure to the production and operation of some downstream enterprises. The Chinese government has rolled out a series of measures to secure supply and stabilise the prices of commodities.

The recently-issued “14th Five-Year Plan for Circular Economy Development” by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) promotes the circular economy and centralized steam facilities as part of China’s efforts to achieve its carbon peak and carbon neutral goals. Sunpower is well positioned to benefit as it is already a pioneer in circular economy and centralized steam facilities through its GI plants.

For 2021, Sunpower intends to continue to execute the following two-pronged strategy with emphasis on the quality of development that amplifies its strengths:
(1) By solidifying its market position as an environmentally-clean centralised provider of industrial steam, heating and electricity through (a) the continuous ramp-up of its existing GI portfolio, supported by further expansion of the coverage areas and customer base of the projects but with less intense capital expenditure; (b) proceeding with the planned construction of the expansion phases of certain existing projects; (c) continuous closure of small “dirty” boilers; and (d) the continuous cultivation of the earnings quality and asset returns of existing projects, and

(2) By tapping into its proven ability to identify and invest in additional promising GI projects that meet the investment hurdles of the Company.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, the Group expects the business trends summarized below to benefit its business in FY2021. Please note that Sunpower’s financial results12 should be viewed on a 12-month basis to arrive at a balanced perspective.

Anticipated additional contributions from new plants, namely:
– Shantou Project, where Phase 1 is in commercial operation and will continue to ramp up rapidly, while Phase 2 construction is expected to be completed in 2021.
– Xintai Zhengda Project, where part of the new facility is in commercial operation, and construction of the remaining part is expected to be completed in 2021.
– Tongshan Project, where construction of Phase 1 is expected to be completed in 2021.

Continued ramp-up and enhancement of all existing GI plants, namely:
– Continuous connection of new customers, following mandatory closures of small dirty boilers, mandatory location and/or relocation of new factories into industrial parks, expansion of coverage area, and/or organic growth of customers and industrial parks served by the Group’s GI plants
– Anticipated increase in demand for steam when Xinyuan Plant starts to supply clean heating to its new 2 million m2 concession area in Jimo International Trade Park.
– Changrun Project has recently started to supply Sanli under its 25-year exclusive supply contract in May 2021 following the completion of the connecting pipeline.

Mr. Ma Ming, Executive Director of Sunpower, commented:
“It has been a busy but satisfying time in 1H 2021. We successfully completed the disposal of the M&S business and was able to return a substantial amount of capital to shareholders and bondholders. I thank them for their investment and belief in Sunpower. Due to our leading market position and effective cost management measures, we were also able to capture the strong growth potential of the GI business in 1H 2021 with a robust double-digit jump in GI revenue.

Going forward, we will leverage on all of our resources to steer the development of the GI business. Meanwhile, the Group will intensify efforts to cultivate and enhance the quality of its existing GI projects, greenfield and acquired projects alike, to achieve even stronger, better quality growth which will further boost the investment returns and value of its assets in the long term, and will also seek suitable opportunities to expand the portfolio, either by procuring new GI projects with exclusive longterm concessions or to embark on further phases of expansion for certain existing projects.”

Forward-looking Statement
This press release includes forward-looking statements and financial information provided with respect to the anticipated future performance and involve assumptions and uncertainties based on the Group’s view of future events. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends, “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from management in this press release and the Company’s operations and business outlook, contain forward-looking statements. The actual results may vary from the anticipated results and such variations may be material. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that such projections and forward-looking statements can be realized. No representations or warranties are made as to the accuracy or reasonableness of such assumptions of the forward-looking statements and financial information based thereon. The Group undertakes no obligation to update forwardlooking statements and financial information to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or to changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. The past performance of the Group is not necessarily indicative of the future performance of the Group.

About Sunpower Group Ltd.
Sunpower Group Ltd. (SGX: 5GD.SI) is a leading provider of industrial steam with a sizeable portfolio of 100%-recurring, long-term cash-generating Green Investments (“GI”) projects that use innovative integrated environmental-protection technology to facilitate the development of the circular economy and help China to attain its carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals. It was founded in China in 1997 and listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) in 2005.

In 2020, Sunpower disposed its Manufacturing and Services (“M&S”) business for an attractive consideration that unlocked value and improved investment returns for investors. To reward shareholders and bondholders, a substantial Special Dividend of S$0.2412 a share was declared and paid in 2021. Following the monetisation of M&S, the sole principal business of the Group is the “Green Investments” (“GI”) business where it has a sizeable portfolio of GI projects that generate 100% recurring, long-term, high-quality income and cashflow.

Sunpower is successfully expanding the GI business by leveraging on its robust and replicable business model with unique competitive edge to unlock the long-term growth potential. With the application of innovative technology packages that raise high entry barriers, a proven effective management team to provide leadership and execution capabilities in operations and risk management, and the strong support of strategic investors DCP and CDH, Sunpower is continuously shaping a green future for itself as it takes its green, low-carbon, circular economy GI business to greater heights.

For more information, please refer to Sunpower’s investor relations website, http://sunpower.listedcompany.com/.

August Consulting (Singapore)
Silvia Heng
Email: silviaheng@august.com.sg
Phone: +65 6733 8873

Jeremy Sing
Email: jeremysing@august.com.sg
Phone: +65 6733 8873

Habitat for Humanity’s ShelterTech accelerator ends with bold vision for affordable housing

A Global Summit held on July 14 topped off Habitat for Humanity‘s ShelterTech accelerator in Southeast Asia, the 10 startups pitched their work and progress to date, while investors and ecosystem partners wrapped with a critical reflection on innovation in affordable housing markets today. Launched in 2017 with accelerator programs in Mexico, India and Kenya, ShelterTech has grown into a global platform connecting ideas, products and services in affordable housing, with a special focus on solutions that work in a COVID-19 context. ShelterTech aims to make affordable housing a top impact investment category.

Ten SE Asian startups pitched their housing solutions following seven months of support and mentorship by leaders in the technology and impact investment sectors. Hosted by Villgro Philippines & Global Urban Village, 7/14/21. (Habitat.org)

Startups from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines and Singapore were selected for the program in late-2020. In addition to an initial catalytic grant of US$10,000, the ventures completed a seven-month acceleration process, which included learning laboratories, masterclasses on housing and business topics, dialogues with regional investors and one-on-one mentorship with experts from global corporations including Hilti, Dow and Autodesk.

During the pitches, the startups recounted their growth journey since joining ShelterTech and their plans to bring affordable housing products and services to millions of low-income families in the region.

CUBO Modular, which is based in the Philippines and manufactures modular homes out of bamboo, has sold out units of their award-winning homes for the remainder of the year. Sampangan’s proprietary “magic box” turns waste into activated carbon which is used to create building materials. This Indonesian startup secured new contracts with the government and is now the largest startup in Indonesia to create more long-lasting products out of waste materials.

“ShelterTech works across sectors, industries and geographies to bring together the most impactful and cutting-edge innovations, to improve housing conditions for low-income families across the globe. We chose 10 startups in the Southeast Asia cohort because we believe they will make significant contributions to addressing the global housing deficit,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, at the opening of the Summit. Launched in Southeast Asia in July 2020, the accelerator attracted more than 100 ventures, vying for a chance to be part of the world’s leading platform for affordable housing innovation.

Reckford’s message was echoed by Marco Meyrat, chairman of the Hilti Foundation board of directors, who said “ShelterTech puts housing entrepreneurs at the centre of a highly connected ecosystem, and collaborators who share a passion for revolutionary solutions in affordable housing. This is well-aligned with the Hilti Foundation’s commitment to helping identify and catalyze innovative technologies for housing that lay the groundwork for a better future.”

Following the Global Summit on July 14, ShelterTech will continue to provide recognition and growth opportunities to startups, while developing its close-knit ecosystem of ventures and partners including national and regional accelerators, in fields including PropTech and smart cities, integrating affordable housing tracks into these programs. To date, ShelterTech has supported more than 60 startups and scaleups worldwide.

ShelterTech is supported by a network of key partners, including Autodesk Foundation, Dow, the Hilti Foundation and the Keith V. Kiernan Foundation, while the Southeast Asian accelerator was run from Manila in partnership with Villgro Philippines and Global Urban Village.

About ShelterTech
ShelterTech is a global innovation platform advancing entrepreneurial housing solutions that radically improve the lives of low-income families. Supported by Habitat’s Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter and its partners, ShelterTech puts entrepreneurs at the center of a highly connected ecosystem of mentors, investors, peers, alumni and technical experts who share a passion for revolutionary ideas in affordable housing. For more information and opportunities, visit www.habitat.org/sheltertech.

About Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter
The Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter, a unit of Habitat for Humanity International, works with housing market actors to expand innovative and client-responsive services, products and financing, so that households can improve their shelter more effectively and efficiently. The goal of the Terwilliger Center is making housing markets work more effectively for people in need of decent, affordable shelter, thereby improving the quality of life for low-income households. To learn more, visit www.habitat.org/tcis.

About Habitat for Humanity
Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on an interracial community farm in the U.S.A., and has grown to become a leading global nonprofit, working across 70 countries. In Asia-Pacific since 1983, Habitat for Humanity has supported millions of people to build or improve a place they can call home. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. To learn more, donate or volunteer, visit www.habitat.org/asiapacific.

Notes to Editors:
For interviews, photos or additional information, contact Rutuja Powle, +91 7718089122, rpowle@habitat.org or Michele Soh, +65 92331544, msoh@habitat.org.

Habitat for Humanity’s regional ShelterTech accelerator concludes with a bold vision for the affordable housing sector

A Global Summit celebrated the conclusion of Habitat for Humanity‘s ShelterTech accelerator in Southeast Asia, where the ten startups presented their work and progress to date, followed reflection by investors and ecosystem partners on why innovation in affordable housing market is critical. First launched in 2017 with accelerator programs in Mexico, India and Kenya, ShelterTech has grown into a global platform to connect innovating ideas, products and services in affordable housing, with special focus on solutions that work in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. ShelterTech aims to make housing a top impact investment category.

“ShelterTech works across sectors, industries and geographies to bring together the most impactful and cutting-edge innovations improving housing conditions for low-income families across the globe. We chose the ten startups in the Southeast Asia cohort because we believe they will make significant contributions to addressing the global housing deficit,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, at the opening of the Summit. Launched in Southeast Asia in July 2020, the accelerator attracted more than 100 ventures, vying for a chance to be part of the world’s leading platform for affordable housing innovation.

Startups from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines and Singapore were selected for the program in late-2020. In addition to an initial catalytic grant of US$10,000, the ventures completed a seven-month acceleration process, which included learning laboratories, masterclasses on housing and business topics, dialogues with regional investors and one-on-one mentorship with seasoned experts from global corporations including Hilti, Dow and Autodesk.

During the pitches, startups recounted their growth journey since joining ShelterTech and their plans to bring affordable housing products and services to millions of low-income families in the region. CUBO Modular, which is based in the Philippines and manufactures modular homes out of bamboo, has sold out all units of their award-winning homes for the remainder of the year. Sampangan’s proprietary “magic box” turns waste into activated carbon, which is used to create building materials. The Indonesian startup recently secured new contracts with governments and the largest startup in Indonesia to create more long-lasting products out of waste materials.

Following the Global Summit, ShelterTech will continue to provide recognition and growth opportunities to startups, while developing its close-knit ecosystem of ventures and partners. The platform will also partner with other national and regional accelerators, in fields such as PropTech and smart cities, to integrate an affordable housing track to their programs.

A corresponding accelerator and Summit also took place in the Andean region of South America. In total, ShelterTech has supported over 60 startups and scaleups worldwide to date. In Southeast Asia, the accelerator was run in partnership with Villgro Philippines and Global Urban Village.

About ShelterTech

ShelterTech is a global innovation platform advancing entrepreneurial housing solutions that radically improve the lives of low-income families. Supported by Habitat’s Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter and its partners, ShelterTech puts entrepreneurs at the center of a highly connected ecosystem of mentors, investors, peers, alumni and technical experts who share a passion for revolutionary ideas in affordable housing. For more information and opportunities, visit shelter-tech.org.

About Habitat’s Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter

The Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter, a unit of Habitat for Humanity International, works with housing market actors to expand innovative and client-responsive services, products and financing so that households can improve their shelter more effectively and efficiently. The goal of the Terwilliger Center is to make housing markets work more effectively for people in need of decent, affordable shelter, thereby improving the quality of life for low-income households. To learn more, visit habitat.org/tcis

About Habitat for Humanity

Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on an interracial community farm in the U.S.A. and has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in more than 70 countries. In the Asia-Pacific region since 1983, Habitat for Humanity has supported millions of people to build or improve a place they can call home. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. To learn more, donate or volunteer, visit habitat.org/asiapacific.

Notes to Editors:
To set up interviews, receive photos or gain additional information, please contact Rutuja Powle, Tel: +91 7718089122, rpowle@habitat.org or Michele Soh, +65 92331544, msoh@habitat.org.

Cross Your City, ADO Debuts A20F Ebike with Fat Tire

Crush the commute with A20F e-bike, 20*4.0-inch fat tire, max speed 25km/h, 36V10.4AH

Innovative startup ADO officially debuts the A20F off-road commuter Ebike across global on July 1st. The A20F is positioned as an urban off-road Ebike, able to conquer all urban terrains.

With years of efforts and accumulation in the electric bicycle industry, ADO has reached cooperation with 30 local distributing partners in the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, Russia, Ukraine, Ireland, Lithuania, Portugal, Finland, Slovenia, Vietnam, etc., radiating its business to the world. ADO will maintain its momentum to focus on deployment and continue to tackle the eight regional markets of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.

What users get from A20F e-bike
ADO’s electric bicycle A20F, positioned as urban off-road, can conquer all urban terrains:
– 500W (CE version: 250W) and 380r/min motor, rated as off-road power drive, provides excellent obstacle crossing ability, can easily conquer all urban terrains
– ADO G-GIVER Control System
– SHIMANO 7 speed Transmission System offers an easy cycling experience
– Full body shock absorption system provides a smooth riding experience
– 36V10.4AH, automobile-level battery and energy recovery system provide with excellent cycling distance
– 886 Type HD LCD Display, crystal clear under the sunshine
– USB charging/gravity handle follows ergonomic design principles
– Adjustable saddle and stem, A20F electric bicycle is suitable for people whose height is 150cm-200cm.

ADO G-DRIVE frequency conversion control system can instantly receive signals from motors, sensors and adapt to various cycling occasions and bicycle modes by providing super-strong motor drive. Meanwhile, it helps reduce energy consumption to increase the riding distance.

The energy recovery system and 3.25 gold transmission ratio design increase the power conversion efficiency by more than 92% through the power sensor and control system, thus improving the battery life.

Hassle-free after-sales support, warranty up to 10 years
Besides launching an accessible e-bike with high quality, ADO spares no effort to set up strong and long-term after-sales support in Europe. This has been a pain in the neck for years that local customers find it difficult or inconvenient to get simple issue fixed.

ADO promises to provide consumers with localized hassle-free technology and after-sales service in European countries. Fast dispatch from local European warehouses and real-time online technical information, advice, guidance available. Plus, free replacement for a new e-bike when maintenance is not available due to the quality issues is guaranteed.

For warranty policies, ADO offers 10 years warranty for the frame and 1-year warranty covers structural parts-front fork, seat tube, handlebar, aheadset stem, brake handle, brake lever, sprocket crank, chain wheel, thumb shifter, derailleur; Electrical components-charger, battery, motor, controller, instrument, booster, USB charger, acceleration handle, 2in1 switch, head light.

To provide better after-sales support, ADO has set up a technical service center in the industrial area of Broussard, Germany, with a self-built warehouse of 3,000 square meters and an office of 400 square meters. Besides, three other maintenance centers, respectively in Germany, UK and Poland, provide instant follow-ups to customers’ repair requests in Europe.

Green commuting
ADO is a brand born in the middle of the pandemic when the world is facing changes in all walks of life. Sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial and e-bike marketing is booming. Therefore, practicing a green commute is important for not only personal health but also for ensuring that people have a healthy planet to inhabit in the future. Slow-moving cars emit more fumes, making traffic jams and red lights unhealthy and unsustainable.

“Riding a bike or walking to work can help people show up awake, sharp, and focused. When people choose an active commute, they are incorporating physical activity into their daily routine in a necessary way.” Sen said, founder of ADO and an advocate of a green and healthy lifestyle himself.

In order to adapt to the road conditions of different countries, ADO has developed the fat tire electric bicycle A20F. Solar energy e-bikes and hubless e-bikes will also be considered in the coming future.

The A20F e-bike has been crowdfunded on www.indiegogo.com at a unit price of USD 899 from July 1st to July 22th. Buying more and more discounts is available. The transaction price of 2 units is 1769 USD and the transaction price of 5 units is 4299 USD. After the crowdfunding, A20F will sell in AliExpress/Amazon official store.

About ADO
ADO is short for ‘A Dece Oasis’, or Oasis in the Desert. ADO is taken from Crescent Lake in China, a diamond on the ancient Silk Road, and a bridge connecting China and Western. Flowing for thousands of years in the desert, Crescent Lake is symbolic of Green and Challenge, and also Inheritance and Hope. ADO was founded in 2020, committed to building a green commuting ecology by advocating the riding culture and philosophy of Green, Challenge, Inheritance & Hope.

The slogan of ADO is “Cross Your City, ADO Ebike”, which means that ADO cross the city to the user’s side, and accompanies the user cross his city.

In May 2021, ADO launched the first e-bike A20 equipped with competitive electric power and a multiple shock absorption system, In July 2021, ADO continued to launch the fat tire e-bike A20F equipped with competitive electric power and a multiple shock absorption system. Based on the complex road conditions in various countries, ADO has a clear direction for product development: ADO products are positioned as urban off-road Ebikes suitable for all urban road conditions. With the highest requirements for electric power and shock absorption systems, ADO Ebike was born for pursuing the ultimate in quality. Learn more at www.adoebike.com.

Media Contact
Sen Xie
E: ado@adobike.com
T: +86 13928317901
W: www.adoebike.com

China Marks an Important Year of Promoting Carbon Neutrality

The Global Commons Stewardship Index was developed by the University of Tokyo’s Global Commons Center in collaboration with the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and Yale University. It was introduced in Chapter 10 of the book, “Understanding the Spillovers and Transboundary Impacts of Public Policies: Implementing the 2030 Agenda for More Resilient Societies,” produced by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Commission-Joint Research Center (EC-JRC).

The outline of the “Global Commons Stewardship Index: GCSi” was presented at the “Tokyo Forum 2020 Online” held in December 2020. This index shows the actual increase and decrease of loads put on the global environmental system by main components such as climate change, biodiversity, land use changes, etc. and the degree to which the goals for each set by governments, organizations, corporations and others have been achieved.

The GCSi could be very helpful for China’s efforts to promote carbon neutrality.

The Tokyo Forum 2020 Online was hosted in Japan by connecting prominent researchers, managers, policy makers, and environmental experts from all over the world online.

The theme of the Forum was “Global Commons Stewardship in the Anthropocene”.

“Humans are the first species which has started to alter the function of the Earth system,” said University of Tokyo President Makoto Gonokami in kicking off the symposium, which was co-sponsored by the University of Tokyo and South Korea’s Chey Institute for Advanced Studies. “To tackle those challenges, we need a systemic transformation of our current economic model so that our prosperity is sustained within the boundaries of our Earth system, our Global Commons.”

The “Center for Global Commons (CGC)” was established by the University of Tokyo in August 2020 to help solve all the environmental issues now facing the planet and to protect the “Global Commons.” Along with other notable speakers, Professor Naoko Ishii, director of the CGC and organizer of the conference, expressed a sense of crisis on numerous occasions. She emphasized that such a sense is necessary, if we are to deal with the unprecedented scale and speed of climate change and other environmental problems now facing the world.

Speaking to the United Nations General Assembly in September 2020, President Xi Jinping of China gained international approval with his pledge to achieve “carbon neutrality,” the virtual elimination of greenhouse gas emissions, by 2060. The trend towards “carbon neutrality” is now on the increase, with lively discussions and initiatives similar to the Tokyo Forum taking place throughout the world.

The United Nations Biodiversity Summit will be held in Kunming, China, from October 11th to 24th of this year. 2021 is shaping up to be a very important year for China as a world leader in the promotion of carbon neutrality.

For Further Information;
Project Website: Tokyo Forum 2020 Online https://www.tokyoforum.tc.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/
Contact Person: Tokyo Forum Secretariat
Email: tokyo.forum@tc.u-tokyo.ac.jp

SOURCE: Tokyo Forum

ADO Debuts A20 Urban Off-Road Commuter Ebike across EU on May 6

Innovative startup ADO officially debuts the A20 off-road commuter Ebike across EU countries on May 6. The A20 is positioned as an urban off-road Ebike, able to conquer all urban terrains.

Crush the commute with A20 e-bike, 20-inch, max speed 25km/h, 36V10.4AH

ADO will hold the momentum for a June launch in the UK, Russia, and Ukraine. With years of effort and an accumulated experience in the Ebike industry, ADO will cooperate with more than 20 local distributing partners in Germany, Italy, UK, Spain, Russia, and Ukraine, extending its business across Europe.

ADO’s electric bicycle A20, positioned as urban off-road, can conquer all urban terrains:
— 350W (CE version: 250W) and 380r/min motor, rated as off-road power drive, provides excellent obstacle crossing ability, can easily conquer all urban terrains
— Shimano 7 speed transmission system offers an easy cycling experience
— Full body shock absorption system provides a smooth riding experience
— 36V10.4AH, automobile-level battery and energy recovery system provide with excellent cycling distance
— 886 Type HD LCD display, crystal clear under the sunshine
— USB charging/gravity handle follows ergonomic design principles

ADO G-DRIVE frequency conversion control system can instantly receive signals from motors, sensors and adapt to various cycling and bicycle modes with a super-strong motor drive. Meanwhile, it helps reduce energy consumption to increase the riding distance.

The energy recovery system and 3.25 gold transmission ratio design increase the power conversion efficiency by more than 92% through the power sensor and control system, thus improving the battery life.

Hassle-free after-sales support, warranty up to 10 years
Besides launching an accessible Ebike with high quality, ADO spares no effort to set up strong and long-term after-sales support in Europe. This has been a pain in the neck for years that local customers find it difficult or inconvenient to get simple issues fixed.

ADO promises to provide consumers with localized hassle-free technology and after-sales service in European countries. Fast dispatch from local European warehouses and real-time online technical information, advice, guidance available. Plus, free replacement for a new Ebike when maintenance is not available due to quality issues is guaranteed.

For warranty policies, ADO offers a 10-year warranty for the frame and a 1-year warranty covering structural parts – front fork, seat tube, handlebar, headset stem, brake handle, brake lever, sprocket crank, chain wheel, thumb shifter, derailleur; and electrical components – charger, battery, motor, controller, instrument, booster, USB charger, acceleration handle, 2in1 switch, and headlight.

To provide better after-sales support, ADO has set up a technical service centre in the industrial area of Broussard, Germany, with a self-built warehouse of 3,000 square meters and an office of 400 square meters. In addition, three other maintenance centres, in Germany, the UK, and Poland, provide instant follow-up to customer repair requests in Europe.

Green commuting
ADO is a brand born in the middle of the pandemic when the world is facing changes in all walks of life. Sustainability is becoming ever more crucial and Ebike marketing is booming. Practising a green commute is important for not only personal health but for ensuring that we have a healthy planet to inhabit in the future.

“Riding your bike or walking to work can help you show up awake, sharp, and focused. When you choose an active commute, you’re incorporating physical activity into your daily routine in a necessary way,” said Sen, founder of ADO and an advocate of a green and healthy lifestyle himself.

To provide a smoother riding experience in European countries with mountainous roads, ADO is embracing more fat-tire electric bicycles in product development. Solar energy Ebikes and hubless Ebikes will also be considered in the coming future.

The A20 Ebike is available on www.banggood.com at a premiere price of EUR 639 from May 6th to 31st. Additionally, there will be 100 EUR619 coupon offers to Redditors.

About ADO
ADO is short for ‘A Dece Oasis’, or Oasis in the Desert. ADO is taken from Crescent Lake in China, a diamond on the ancient Silk Road, and a bridge connecting China and Western. Flowing for thousands of years in the desert, Crescent Lake is symbolic of Green and Challenge, and also Inheritance and Hope. ADO was founded in 2020, committed to building a green commuting ecology by advocating the riding culture and philosophy of Green, Challenge, Inheritance & Hope.

In 2021, ADO launched the first Ebike A20, equipped with competitive electric power and a multiple shock absorption system. Based on the complex road conditions in many old cities in Europe and the uncomfortable riding experience, ADO has a clear direction for product development: ADO products are positioned as urban off-road Ebikes suitable for all urban road conditions. With the highest requirements for electric power and shock absorption systems, ADO Ebike was born for pursuing the ultimate in quality. Learn more at www.adoebike.com.

Media contact:
Sen Xie, ADOEBIKE
E: ado@adoebike.com
W: www.adoebike.com

Rimba Raya Floating Clinic Supplying Health Care to the Community along the Seruyan River

The Rimba Raya Floating Clinic was introduced into the project area as a means to improve community access to health services in and around the Rimba Raya working area which is located along the Seruyan River.

In cooperation with the Seruyan District Health Office, the Rimba Raya Floating Clinic has delivered health services three times in 2020 (Jan, Aug, Nov) and once already in 2021 (March).

Medical check-up by Medical personnel in Belanti Village(L) & Medical personnel with Rimba Raya Staff(R).
Dr Ristya Aulia of the Floating Clinic medical team.
Medical examination by Medical personnel in Tampudau Village(L) & Cempaka Baru Village(R), Miss Irus is checked by the nurse.

During these trips, several healthcare services are provided including general medical check-ups which help determine the health of local people by recording their weight, height, blood pressure and temperature. A general wellness check is also done. Additionally, pregnant women are examined to ensure that the pregnancy is advancing normally and that the mother to be is in good health. Children are also examined to monitor their growth and physical development. Other community members are examined for health problems such as myalgia, hypertension, cholesterol, URTI (upper respiratory tract infection), gastritis, eating disorders, skin infections and allergies.

Medical personnel who provide these services on each floating clinic trip include a doctor, midwives and nurses who are normally based in Puskesmas Kuala Pembuang 1 and Kuala Pembuang 2.

Dr. Ristya Aulia, a member of the Floating Clinic medical team said; “Thank you Rimba Raya for introducing this initiative that provides much needed additional health services to the villages along the Seruyan river. It is my hope that the facilities and infrastructure will improve over time and that the floating clinic will continue to provide this service and that trips into the project area will happen more frequently.”

An elderly woman, Mrs. Irus from Cempaka Baru Village said, “I am very happy with the services provided by the Rimba Raya Floating Clinic, especially because the doctor was able to visit me at my house. I live in a remote village it makes me feel better to know that I can receive treatment in my own home. I live alone and I can’t afford to pay for health care if I have to go outside the village.”

The last two trips conducted by the floating clinic took place from 10-12 November 2020 and 22-24 March 2020. There were 10 locations targeted which included 8 villages and 2 hamlets, namely; Pematang Limau, Tanjung Rangas, Muara Dua (Tampudau and Belanti Hamlet), Jahitan, Baung (west and east), Cempaka Baru, Palingkau and Ulak Batu. A total of 706 patients received health care where 60.91% (or 430 patients) were female.

The Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve Floating Clinic is equipped to supply 86 types of medicines. Vitamins are also supplied, particularly to children, pregnant women and the elderly.

Reportedly, during these health outreach trips, 12 common health problems were diagnosed with the top three being hypertension (24.08%), myalgia (a chronic muscle disorder) – 21.67%, and URTI (Upper Respiratory Tract Infection) – 17%.

Based on the data collected during these trips, it is also known that older people are the most susceptible to various illnesses and therefore, in this region, people aged 50 and older are the most vulnerable. 42.78% or 302 patients who received treatment, fell into this category.

“Rimba Raya Floating Clinic is vital to villagers who require health services, particularly because some areas in the Seruyan are difficult to reach and as a result, there is a severe lack of regular health care. I would like to see an increase in the frequency of these health service trips,” said Anggi Mulyawan, Staff of TNTP SPTN II Kuala Pembuang.

Head of Seruyan District Health Office, Mahdiniansyah added, “Because there has been limited availability of regional government funding, the field health program introduced by Rimba Raya has been very well received by all community members. A good example of how Rimba Raya has positively impacted this area is when they helped supply medicines to people who were victims of the major flooding that occurred in the Seruyan District in 2020.

Additionally, waterborne diseases have been reduced after Rimba Raya introduced initiatives that supply clean drinking water to villagers through the provision of individual water filters and newly constructed water purifying systems. The Head of Seruyan District expressed his gratitude for the assistance of PT. Rimba Raya Conservation in providing free health services to 10 villages and hamlets in the Seruyan District.”

“Rimba Raya hopes to have better cooperation and support from all parties involved in this effort to improve health services in the region. Access to basic health care services is as a fundamental human right and the needs of all community members should be adequately met,” said Sylviana Andhella, Executive Director of Rimba Raya Conservation.

Rimba Raya Duty
“By protecting forests, we protect all the life in them and contribute to balancing the global climate. We empower communities to be involved in protecting peat swamp forests. Together we love the earth so that its sustainability is maintained.” – Djonni Andhella, President Director of Rimba Raya Conservation.

Abou Rimba Raya
The Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve, an InfiniteEARTH Project, is one of the largest REDD+ projects in the world, protecting nearly 65,000 hectares of peat swamp forest in Central Kalimantan, the world’s first REDD+ project verified under the Verra Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SDVista) and achieved the highest rating possible, contributing to all 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while retaining the coveted Triple Gold status under the global Climate, Community and Biodiversity (CCB) standard in the voluntary carbon market. It is a living example of an economically viable alternative to deforestation. Visit https://infinite-earth.com.

The project has reduced Indonesia’s emissions by preserving tropical peat swamp forest, avoiding large-scale deforestation, drainage and conversion to palm oil plantations. Bordering the eastern boundary of the Tanjung Puting National Park in the Seruyan River watershed, the Rimba Raya project is rich in biodiversity with over 100 threatened and endangered species, including the endangered Bornean orangutan. Visit https://rimba-raya.com.

Rimba Raya Conservation as the field implementer, empowers the community to be involved in maintaining and preserving peat swamp forest ecosystems with the following approach: Empowered Communities, Healthy Forests, Maintained Climate, and supporting the achievement of the SDG targets in the assisted villages of the Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve.

Health Protocol
This activity was carried out with reference to the WHOs COVID-19 Health Protocols.

Contacts:
Frita Junita
Communication Officer – Rimba Raya Conservation
E: rimbarayajakarta@gmail.com
H: +62 857-1743-7001
U: www.rimba-raya.com

Rimba Raya MedSos:
Instagram: http://instagram.com/rimbarayaproject/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RimbaRayaForest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rimba_raya_

Innovative UK Energy Company Increases Rewards for Residential Roof Top Solar

Rowan Energy has launched a new and leading global solar incentive programme; Rowan Rewards. The platform gives customers reward points similar to other loyalty programs for the energy produced by their roof top solar.

Since the end of the feed-in tariff in 2019, there has been no financial incentive to adopt solar technology. Rowan however aims to change this by bringing carbon offsetting and blockchain together enabling greater environmental and financial rewards to its customers. The UK-based energy start-up passionately believes in making renewable energy production equally as valuable to its producers as it is for the environment.

Right now, potential solar customers can earn a maximum 5.5p per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the electricity produced by the solar panels on their roof. This means, depending on your solar supplier, that it could take up to thirty years to get a return on investment, which is longer than the panels are expected to last.

Rowan Energy residential customers can currently enjoy returns of up to 15.5p per kWh with the capacity for this figure to grow in future. Potentially bringing them profits on their solar investment in less five years.

Rowan allocates rewards for every kWh produced by the solar setup, not just what is fed onto the grid. This level of incentive is achieved by bringing several new technologies together in a single package. The backbone of their platform is a custom built blockchain. A blockchain is a distributed secure database, that traditionally utilises large amounts of energy to run. Rowan built their own custom blockchain from the ground up. The blockchain was designed to run on Raspberry Pi’s (a UK distributed micro-computer), making it low powered and therefore low-carbon.

Each customer gets a new type of smart meter called a Rowan Smart Miner added to their solar installation. This Smart Miner is non-intrusive and can be fitted alongside current solar installations or added to a purchased solar package.

The Smart Miner sits behind the existing smart meter, counting the energy produced by the roof top installation while simultaneously validating the transactions on the blockchain itself.

Once installed the Smart Miner counts the energy produced by the solar panels and rewards its owners with points accessible via a user-friendly interface either on a desktop or mobile app. As these devices sit behind the solar panels Rowan’s custom made blockchain is mostly solar powered and carbon neutral.

The reward points represent 10p for every kWh produced. Once collected points can be transferred to your PayPal account or Rowan Debit card, with the added benefit of being given the option to donate rewards directly to UK fuel poverty charities.

When joining Rowan Energy Rewards, you will not have to change your current supplier and it does not affect any agreed feed-in program.

In February 2021 Rowan began its beta rollout program. Working with leading solar panel installer Ecocute, Rowan has begun installing miners into 50 properties to test and perfect the program end to end prior to a national rollout. Rowan Energy has a target of installing ten thousand miner units in properties by the end of the year.

Already building partnerships in Canada, France and Poland, Rowan Energy expect to replicate the platform and offer the same incentives globally.

This is just the beginning of the Rowan Energy journey. Once Rowan has signed up a significant number of solar customers, they plan to launch their peer-to-peer energy trading platform. This means that solar prosumers will be able to sell their energy directly to other consumer, based on how much energy the customer needs and the producer closest to them. Meaning you could share your solar energy production with family, friends and others.

By bringing this to market Rowan Energy will become the world’s first community fed green energy company. Customers will be able to go onto their dashboard and see in real-time where their energy is being produced.

This not only brings better returns for producers, but cheaper green energy for consumers and eliminates the controversial use of Green Energy Certificates to greenwash energy produced by diesel or coal power stations. Some energy companies buy brown energy, offset the carbon and then sell it to unsuspecting Green energy customers.

The idea for the business was first established in 2018 in Cambridge, by the company’s CEO and founder; David Duckworth.

After being rebuffed by several large utility companies, David worked to develop the idea and brought out a 4 stage plan to bring the new incentive to market.

Phase one saw Rowan Energy build a beta version of its low-carbon blockchain and partner with smart meter provider PassivSystem to launch a proof of concept that tracked the energy production of 175 houses and rewarded them for that production.

In phase two Rowan released its live blockchain and then added the base token; Rowan Coin, to major exchanges ProBit and LAtoken. Next Rowan Energy set about hiring talent from around the world to help make David’s vision become a reality.

Following on from phase two Rowan concluded the development of its Smart Miner technology and manufactured its first revolutionary hardware product. Partnering with a welsh open-source smart meter company Emonpi they were able to move into the current phase three, which has seen the Smart Miner being rolled out to homes as part of its beta launch trial. A national rollout is expected in the latter part of 2021.

Phase four will see the introduction of Rowan as a licenced utilities provider followed by exciting Solar-Battery-EV potential advancements.

Rowan Energy are expected to change the way people buy and sell their energy, bringing a much-needed revision to an increasingly obsolete industry. With encouraging incentives, Rowan Smart Miners and an accessible platform, Rowan offer straightforward financial returns and environmental benefits.

Rowan Energy want to make Green Energy available and rewarding to all.

Join Rowan Rewards today by visiting.

Contact Info:
Rowan Renewable Energy LTD
483 Green Lanes, London, England, N13 4BS
Support@rowanenergy.com
www.rowanrewards.com
www.rowanenergy.com

SOURCE: Rowan Renewable Energy LTD