AcquisitionsBusinessEnergy

Growthpoint Properties Expands Renewable Portfolio with Major Hydroelectric Investment and Tenant-Focused Green Energy Initiative

JSE-listed Growthpoint Properties has secured a significant stake in a new hydroelectric facility while launching an innovative green energy program for its commercial tenants. The initiative marks a pioneering approach to corporate renewable energy distribution in South Africa’s property sector, according to company announcements.

Strategic Renewable Energy Investment

JSE-listed real estate investment trust Growthpoint Properties has reportedly acquired a 30% stake in independent power producer Serengeti Energy’s operational Boston Hydro plant near Clarens in the Free State, according to a joint media release from the companies. The R390-million hydroelectric facility represents a significant addition to South Africa’s renewable energy infrastructure with an operational lifespan exceeding 40 years.

EnergySoftwareTechnology

Octopus Energy’s Kraken Platform Emerges as UK’s Tech Unicorn Amid Global Expansion

Kraken Technologies, the software platform behind Octopus Energy, is reportedly overtaking its parent company’s retail energy business in value. The platform, which serves over 70 million households globally, is preparing for a potential public listing as it expands its international footprint.

The Rise of Kraken Technologies

Kraken Technologies, the software platform developed by UK energy supplier Octopus Energy, is reportedly becoming more valuable than the retail energy business that created it, according to recent analysis. The platform, which manages everything from billing to electric vehicle charging for utility companies worldwide, has grown into one of Britain’s most valuable technology startups of the past decade.

EnergyScience

Study Urges Hourly Tracking to Boost Green Energy Credibility

New analysis of European energy markets shows current annual matching for green electricity claims conceals substantial seasonal and daily imbalances. Researchers propose transitioning to hourly tracking combined with storage integration to align renewable supply with actual consumption patterns.

Green Electricity Accounting Faces Temporal Transparency Challenge

Recent research published in Nature Communications reveals significant shortcomings in how green electricity claims are currently verified, with analysts suggesting that moving toward hourly tracking could substantially improve environmental credibility. The study examines European energy certificate markets and electricity data from 2016-2021, finding that the predominant annual matching approach masks critical mismatches between renewable energy supply and consumer demand patterns.

EconomyPolicy

UK Government Weighs VAT Reduction on Energy Bills Amid Cost of Living Pressures

The UK government is reportedly considering eliminating the 5% VAT on household energy bills as part of next month’s Budget. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has acknowledged the need to address the ongoing cost of living crisis affecting millions of households across the country.

Potential Relief for Household Energy Costs

The UK government is reportedly considering significant measures to address the ongoing cost of living crisis, with sources indicating that Chancellor Rachel Reeves may eliminate the 5% Value-added tax on household energy bills in next month’s Budget. According to reports, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has given the strongest indication yet that the government recognizes the severity of the affordability crisis facing British households.