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California-based startup Copper creates battery-run stoves
CNBC Television· 2025-12-12 22:01
Company Overview - Copper, a California-based startup, invented a battery-equipped induction stove that plugs into a regular 120-volt outlet [2] - Copper leverages batteries to enhance appliance performance, simplify installation, ensure functionality during power outages, and support the grid [3] - Copper has secured $38 million in total funding from investors including Climactic, Prelude Ventures, Building Ventures, Voyager Ventures, Collaborative Fund, and Designer Fund [6] Market Opportunity and Partnerships - New York City's housing authority partnered with Copper in a $32 million deal to deploy 10,000 battery-equipped stoves into city-owned housing [3] - Copper is targeting multi-family housing developers and housing authorities [6] - Copper's technology offers a cost-effective alternative to maintaining aging gas pipe systems [4] Technology and Innovation - Copper's battery-equipped induction range offers an easy upgrade from gas to induction without electrical system upgrades [2] - The lithium-ion battery in Copper's stove can be charged during off-peak hours, creating a distributed storage farm [5] - Copper's solution addresses the challenge of increasing energy consumption from data centers, AI, and natural growth [5] Product and Pricing - Copper's induction ranges start at $6,000, but tax credits are available [6] - Copper's products are available for direct purchase on the company website [6]
Duke Energy Foundation provides $125,000 in grants to South Carolina nonprofits to prepare homes for energy efficiency upgrades
Prnewswire· 2025-12-09 15:00
Core Insights - Duke Energy and Duke Energy Foundation are providing $125,000 in microgrants to South Carolina nonprofits to support programs that enable households to qualify for energy efficiency improvements and long-term cost savings [1][6]. Funding Allocation - Nonprofit organizations that assist income-challenged households in participating in energy efficiency and weatherization initiatives can apply for grants up to $20,000 [3][6]. Importance of the Initiative - Many homes in South Carolina face pre-existing health and safety issues, such as roof leaks and electrical hazards, which prevent them from benefiting from weatherization programs [2][4]. Additional Programs - Duke Energy Progress launched a pilot program in 2024 offering free energy improvements to qualifying households based on income and energy use, and in 2025, the company increased incentives and eligibility for various energy efficiency and demand response programs [4][9]. Philanthropic Commitment - The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet community needs where Duke Energy customers live and work [5]. Community Impact - Several nonprofit organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, received grants to fund critical home repairs for income-challenged households, enhancing their ability to participate in energy efficiency programs [7][8].
4% Bitcoin Allocation Is Becoming Standard (Here's Why)
Bitcoin Bram· 2025-12-06 14:00
Market Trends & Investment Opportunities - Bitcoin's thesis remains strong, with potential acceleration and patience being key, as indicated by the market's crawl back up and positive sentiment around the $90,000s [1] - University endowments, including Harvard, are quietly allocating to Bitcoin, with Harvard holding almost 1% of its endowment portfolio in IBIT, surpassing holdings in Microsoft, Amazon, and gold, signaling institutional interest in Bitcoin as digital sound money [3] - BlackRock's Larry Fink acknowledges being wrong about Bitcoin and sees sovereign wealth funds incrementally adding to their positions, viewing it as a long-term investment rather than a trade [6] - Vanguard is opening up Bitcoin ETFs to clients, and BFA recommends up to 4% Bitcoin allocations for wealth management clients, indicating a trend of increasing access and acceptance of Bitcoin [9] Industry Dynamics & Challenges - The industry faces challenges from figures like Mike Brock, who associates Bitcoin with fascism and criticizes hard money economics, reflecting a broader conflation of Bitcoin with crypto scams and requiring education to counter misconceptions [1] - Michael Burry views Bitcoin as worthless, calling it tulips and associating it with criminal use, highlighting the ongoing skepticism and need for education within the broader public [4] - Concerns arise regarding BlackRock's potential control over the Bitcoin ecosystem through tokenization and centralization, mirroring concerns with internet platforms like Facebook and Twitter [7] - Consumer sentiment is weakening, with 95% of Black Friday sales volume financed and 67% intending to not pay it off within 30 days, coupled with rising unemployment among college graduates and a majority living paycheck to paycheck, potentially leading to increased government reliance and control [13] Bitcoin's Utility & Future - Bitcoin is presented as a mechanism for storing and transporting excess energy, monetizing energy sources in a location-agnostic manner, and potentially driving ROI for renewable energy projects [14] - Bitcoin is superior to gold in terms of verifiability, as highlighted by CZ's demonstration with a gold bar, though gold maintains a higher liquidity profile for nation-state transactions [10][11] - The discussion touches on the potential for tokenizing businesses and the limitations of the traditional stock market, suggesting a role for crypto in creating a 24/7 trading environment [15] - The industry anticipates increased FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt) as Bitcoin makes upward movements, requiring vigilance and a focus on producing value rather than reacting to market noise [16]
Leidos to continue as program administrator for Hawai'i Energy
Prnewswire· 2025-12-04 21:01
Core Insights - Leidos is continuing its partnership with Hawai'i's Public Utilities Commission to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and improve energy resiliency in the state [1][4] Contract Details - A new three-year contract worth $127 million has been established for Leidos to manage the Hawai'i Energy program and the Electric Vehicle Charging Station Rebate program, along with market solutions and educational initiatives [2] Achievements and Impact - Since 2009, Leidos has administered the Hawai'i Energy program, resulting in over $7 billion in energy savings statewide. In the last program year, it provided more than 18,000 rebates totaling approximately $20 million [3] Strategic Alignment - The partnership aligns with Leidos' NorthStar 2030 strategic focus on energy infrastructure and reflects its commitment to advancing energy efficiency and grid modernization across the nation [4] Company Overview - Leidos is a leader in industry and technology, serving government and commercial customers, with annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ending January 3, 2025 [5]
ROCKWOOL Group launches an inspiring new brand campaign under the tagline, “If it’s worth building”
Globenewswire· 2025-12-01 12:24
Core Insights - ROCKWOOL launches a new brand campaign focusing on the importance of protecting built environments and the people who inhabit them, emphasizing resilience and making a positive impact on lives [1][3] - The new tagline reflects the company's commitment to providing the best products for those who matter most, aligning with their mission to ensure safety, comfort, and peace of mind [2][3] Market Dynamics - The campaign is timely, addressing increasing regulatory and customer demands for energy efficiency, carbon emissions reduction, fire safety, sustainability, and resilience [4][5] - There is a notable shift in Europe towards non-combustible, high-performance materials, with rising expectations for safer and more energy-efficient buildings [5] Campaign Strategy - The campaign will feature an emotive video and multi-channel social media efforts, initially targeting North America and select European markets, with a broader initiative planned for 2026 [6] - The new tagline aims to position ROCKWOOL as a leader in modern resilience and living, distinguishing the brand in a changing market landscape [5] Company Overview - ROCKWOOL Group is dedicated to addressing significant sustainability and development challenges, including energy consumption, noise pollution, fire resilience, water scarcity, and flooding [7] - The company is a global leader in stone wool products, employing over 12,700 people across approximately 40 countries and selling in more than 120 markets [8]
Sunset Royal Beach Resort Reports Final Figures for the 2025 Sea Turtle Nesting Season
Prnewswire· 2025-11-28 20:43
Core Insights - The Sunset Royal Beach Resort, part of the Sunset World Group, plays a significant role in the conservation of sea turtles during the nesting season from May to October, with dedicated staff monitoring and protecting the turtles and their eggs [1][2]. Group 1: Turtle Conservation Efforts - In 2025, 85 female turtles nested on the beach in front of the Sunset Royal Hotel, comprising 83 green turtles and 2 loggerhead turtles, resulting in 10,345 eggs laid and 8,388 hatchlings emerging [2]. - The Benito Juárez City Council recommended expanding nesting pen capacities due to a significant increase in female turtle arrivals in 2024, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts [2]. Group 2: Company Background and Environmental Initiatives - Sunset World Group is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, focusing on environmental conservation and sustainability [4]. - The company has implemented an Energy Efficiency Program across its six hotels in Cancun and The Riviera Maya, utilizing clean and renewable energy from Mexican wind farms and geothermal plants to reduce its carbon footprint [4]. Group 3: Employee Training and Activities - Staff at the Sunset Royal Hotel receive ongoing training in various conservation techniques, including proper beach preparation, safe handling of nesting females, and controlled release of hatchlings [6]. - The resort offers a range of family-friendly entertainment and activities, enhancing the overall guest experience while promoting environmental awareness [3].
Midea Building Technologies představuje na C&R 2025 v Madridu žhavé novinky ve vytápění, ventilaci a klimatizaci
Prnewswire· 2025-11-22 18:47
Core Insights - Midea Building Technologies (MBT) showcased its latest energy-efficient HVAC solutions at the C&R 2025 exhibition, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and modern technology [1][10] Product Innovations - The new generation R32 VRF system was introduced, marking its international debut, which offers effective and reliable solutions for commercial buildings [7] - The Mars Large R290 ATW heat pump, selected for the Innovation Gallery, features an eco-friendly design with a minimal global warming potential (GWP) and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), capable of heating water up to 85°C even in low ambient temperatures [3] - The MagBoost Apex Pro magnetic chiller, also featured in the Innovation Gallery, utilizes advanced technologies for quiet and efficient operation, making it suitable for data centers and large commercial projects [4] Comprehensive Offerings - MBT presented a wide range of solutions, including the EasyFit VRF system for commercial spaces and the Ultra-High Temperature Magnetic Water Vapor Compressor, which provides steam at temperatures between 150-200°C, ideal for industrial applications [5] - The AquaThermal Max Inverter Air-Cooled Scroll Heat Pump, using R32 refrigerant, offers easy maintenance and eco-friendly features for commercial and industrial applications [5] Energy Efficiency and Smart Solutions - MBT maintains a leading position in energy savings through its integrated smart solution iEasyEnergy, which optimizes energy use via solar modules, energy storage, and heat pumps [6] - The innovative HVAC solutions from MBT have achieved significant success across Europe, transforming sustainable housing projects [7] Commitment to Sustainability - At the C&R exhibition, MBT reinforced its commitment to ecological sustainability by presenting solutions that support energy efficiency and intelligent building technologies for the future [9]
Thermal Energy International Inc. Receives an Additional $1.6 Million Order to Deliver Customized HeatSponge Heat Recovery Units to the Arctic
Newsfile· 2025-11-20 12:01
Core Insights - Thermal Energy International Inc. has received a $1.6 million order for eight custom-engineered HeatSponge heat recovery units for a remote Arctic mining operation, following a previous order of two units for approximately $400 thousand [1][2][8] Group 1: Project Details - The project is one of the largest and most technically challenging HeatSponge orders in Boilerroom Equipment Inc.'s history, with all units engineered to withstand extreme conditions such as high temperatures, pressure, and vibration [2][3] - The mine's accessibility is limited, requiring innovative logistics solutions, including modular construction techniques to facilitate shipping via standard cargo aircraft [3][4] Group 2: Technical Innovations - Key innovations include a modular build designed for standard cargo aircraft, plug-and-play assembly for on-site crews, a 22% efficiency boost from the heat exchanger design, and a durable casing made of reinforced stainless steel [5][7][14] - The design also features dual-layer access doors to reduce exhaust leakage and custom finned tubes tailored to site constraints [14] Group 3: Financial Expectations - Revenue from this order is expected to be recognized within 12 months, with gross margins anticipated to align with historical project margins [8]
Beazer Homes Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Fiscal 2025 Results
Businesswire· 2025-11-13 21:15
Core Insights - Beazer Homes reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2025, highlighting both challenges and achievements in a competitive housing market [2][3]. Financial Performance - Net income from continuing operations for Q4 2025 was $30.0 million, or $1.02 per diluted share, down from $52.1 million, or $1.69 per diluted share in Q4 2024 [3][4]. - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2025 was $63.8 million, a decrease of 31.5% compared to the previous year [3][4]. - Homebuilding revenue for Q4 2025 was $750.8 million, down 4.2% year-over-year, driven by a 6.0% decrease in home closings to 1,406 homes, partially offset by a 1.9% increase in average selling price (ASP) to $534.0 thousand [3][7][22]. Operational Metrics - Total home closings in fiscal 2025 were 4,427, a slight decrease of 0.5% from the previous year [3][19]. - Net new orders for Q4 2025 decreased to 999, down 2.9% from the prior year, with a cancellation rate of 17.9%, improved from 21.9% in the previous year [5][19][22]. - The backlog dollar value as of September 30, 2025, was $516.5 million, down 35.2% year-over-year, with backlog units decreasing by 36.2% to 945 homes [6][24]. Cost and Margin Analysis - Homebuilding gross margin for Q4 2025 was 13.7%, down 350 basis points year-over-year, primarily due to increased price concessions and a higher share of spec home closings [8][20]. - Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of total revenue improved to 9.6%, a decrease of 10 basis points from the previous year [9][22]. Land Acquisition and Development - Land acquisition and land development spending for Q4 2025 was $121.7 million, a decrease of 32.0% from $179.0 million in the previous year [10][22]. - The company controlled 25,660 lots, down 10.1% from the prior year, with a significant portion controlled through option agreements [10][24]. Liquidity and Capital Structure - As of the end of Q4 2025, Beazer Homes had $538.3 million in available liquidity, including $214.7 million in unrestricted cash [11][13]. - The total debt to total capitalization ratio was 45.2%, slightly improved from 45.4% a year ago, reflecting strategic asset alignment decisions [12][13]. Strategic Goals - The company aims to achieve more than 200 active communities and grow book value per share into the mid-$50s by the end of fiscal 2027 [2][3]. - Beazer Homes emphasizes its position as America's 1 energy-efficient homebuilder, focusing on sustainability and affordability in home ownership [2][28].
Willdan to Design and Implement $97 Million in Energy and Infrastructure Upgrades for Alameda County
Businesswire· 2025-11-12 14:15
Core Insights - Alameda County, California, has awarded Willdan Group, Inc. a $97 million contract for energy and infrastructure upgrades [1] - The contract focuses on energy savings performance and includes electrification of major HVAC systems, solar PV generation, EV charging stations, and other efficiency upgrades [1] - The project aims to reduce annual carbon emissions across 24 sites [1]