We had a beautiful Q1 call yesterday; 20 of you joined us, heard about the work and technology being created at Earth Catalyst and many of you shared what you're up to. My mom attended and told a story I'd never heard about covering the first Earth Day for her high school newspaper! It was a pretty amazing time. We'll have more calls coming up soon, more info on that tomorrow in fact.
Today the sustainability story getting the most coverage word-wide
It's is an unusual one: it's the LA-area wildfire displacement of celebrities and other wealthy people. The Guardian's coverage is strong; they link to a meta study they did with the great group CarbonBrief of 500 recent extreme weather events.
The conclusion: not all of these extreme events were made more likely by climate change, but 71% of them were, and 12 of those events would have been "virtually impossible without humanity’s destabilisation of the climate." And that was at roughly 1C above pre-industrial temperatures, which we're past now.
From a public communication perspective, this is a chance to reach people by connecting with what they care about. Many people care about celebrities. Today those celebrities are directly connected to climate change conversation. Of course they are also the best resourced among us to move and rebuild.
Ok, that's the big picture top story - let's dig into some updates just for you.
-Marshall Kirkpatrick
Earth Catalyst: We'll support your work with our experience, network, and technology
Today and every day, our system scans over 1,000 green tech and sustainability organizations for updates. Below, you'll find:
A Visual of the Day
A digest-style Table of Contents for 220 selected updates from around the green tech and sustainability world
(If you subscribe by email) 3 personalized selections just for you and your work
Did a friend forward you this newsletter? Welcome! You can subscribe here and get your own personal recommendations each day.
Visual of the Day
Bridges for Critters
Climate and biodiversity are so closely related. From Environment Oregon's campaign and article The true costs of wildlife crossings: "According to one government estimate, collisions cause over 10 billion dollars in property damage every year. And that’s not including the costs of road cleanup and the loss of wildlife...
"Each year, roughly 200 Americans die in wildlife collisions, and 26,000 people are injured...
"One study of animal crossings in Washington state determined that each overpass saved society between $235,000 and $443,000 each year because of reduced collisions."See also Portland's wonderful frog taxis, volunteers who pick up frogs and carry them over highways at night.
Today's Updates

Table of Contents
Agriculture (11 stories) - Rumin8's methane-reducing cattle feed, FDA's plant-based labeling rules, and Maryland farmland threatened by Virginia data center power lines, while Nigerian pastoralists and Guatemalan farmers adapt to climate impacts
Carbon (12 stories) - Watershed expands carbon accounting tools while InPlanet achieves ERW credit milestone; research reveals CO2's historic climate role and stratospheric particle injection potential; Gulf Coast leads CCUS permits as state oil firms face methane scrutiny
Circular (4 stories) - DOE grants fuel Toyota's EV battery recycling facility and critical mineral recovery from coal waste, while wind turbine recycling hits 90% and plant-based tableware advances decomposition solutions
Ecosystems (19 stories) - Canal & River Trust study highlights UK waterways' climate resilience, while global research tracks Arctic ice decline, Atlantic puffin light pollution impacts, and widespread ecosystem threats from LA wildfires to Bornean orangutan habitat loss
Efficiency (5 stories) - NYC and St. Louis mandate building emissions cuts by 2025; data centers strain power grids; Getty's fire systems tested; Mass. launches $16.3B efficiency plan; AI weather models need physics upgrade
Finance (8 stories) - $30B climate tech investment decline amid rate pressures, $1.8T total cleantech funding, new carbon-backed currency from Toco, and $100K Asia-Pacific environmental media grants
Grid (25 stories) - Record-low UK grid emissions, DOE storage cost targets, BluWave-ai's EV charging system, and MISO's $23.1B transmission expansion lead grid modernization efforts as tech giants reshape power generation landscape
Indigenous (17 stories) - Biden designates Chuckwalla and Sáttítla monuments, Fort Belknap restores buffalo herds, while Indigenous networks in Brazil's Rio Negro and First Nations in Western Australia advance climate initiatives
Industry (13 stories) - BMW i Ventures backs Phoenix Tailings' rare metals plant, while Huasun Energy and SINGULUS advance HJT production; Fusion cuts silver in PV paste as US clean energy manufacturing surges 5x since 2021
Policy (56 stories) - Biden bans offshore drilling across 253M hectares of US waters while maintaining Gulf operations; Trump pledges reversal alongside fossil fuel expansion; House GOP eases federal land transfers; IRS extends clean energy tax credits through 2025
Renewables (27 stories) - SolarEdge cuts 400 jobs while JinkoSolar, Huasun, and JA Solar advance efficiency records; EDP, RWE, and JSW Neo Energy drive major solar acquisitions; Germany hits 100GW milestone as Meta, Amazon diverge on data center sustainability approaches
Transport (24 stories) - DOE's $6.9M biofuel initiative, BYD's 485K EV sales lead, XPENG-VW charging network expansion, while Honda, Sony-Afeela, and Thomas Built advance electric vehicles; CATL faces US scrutiny as Tesla Cybertruck ranks third in sales
Agriculture
Rumin8's methane-reducing cattle feed, FDA's plant-based labeling rules, and Maryland farmland threatened by Virginia data center power lines, while Nigerian pastoralists and Guatemalan farmers adapt to climate impacts
Addressing climate risks for Nigerian pastoralists (CGIAR) - Nigerian pastoralists, who manage Africa's largest livestock population, seek new resilience strategies as temperatures rise and desertification threatens their traditional grazing lands.
An extension cord to Virginia? Marylanders push back against proposed PJM transmission line carving through farmland (Renewable Energy World) - Maryland residents are fighting a proposed 70-mile power line that would cut through farms to serve Virginia's data centers, threatening agricultural land and historic sites.
How Big Meat Worked to Rebrand in 2024 — Using Disinformation (DeSmog) - Major meat producers deployed aggressive disinformation campaigns in 2024, funding biased research and promoting misleading eco-friendly claims to counter the growing plant-based food movement.
How Bird Flu, Big Ag, & The Climate Crisis Are Interrelated (CleanTechnica) - Climate change-altered bird migration patterns have intensified bird flu outbreaks across US dairy and poultry farms, exposing gaps in agricultural testing and government response systems.
Is 2025 The Year Of Food Consumption Patterns That “Break the Rules?” (CleanTechnica) - Global food trends reveal 73% of consumers plan to embrace plant-based diets and regenerative farming while 65% aim to avoid ultra-processed foods by 2025, according to market analysts.
LiveEO | Webinar: EUDR for Palm Oil: Leveraging Compliance for Business Growth (LiveEO) - Palm oil industry leaders can learn to transform EU deforestation compliance into market advantages during an upcoming webinar focused on sustainable growth strategies.
Rumin8 CEO on livestock methane reduction: ‘It must be profitable for farmers; without them, none of this happens’ (AgFunderNews) - Australian startup Rumin8's feed supplements cut cattle methane by 85% while aiming for 10% productivity gains ahead of 2026 commercial launch.
To Save the Great Salt Lake, Farmers Will Have to Grow Less Alfalfa (Inside Climate News) - New research reveals that cutting back on alfalfa farming, which consumes 80% of agricultural water in Utah's Great Salt Lake Basin, is vital to prevent the lake's disappearance.
Training civil servants to tackle climate-induced migration challenges in Guatemala (CGIAR) - Guatemalan officials undergo training to manage migration from the Dry Corridor, where drought and erratic rainfall have displaced farmers across Central America.
FDA draft guidance on labeling of plant-based foods ‘unfairly burdensome,’ says PBFA (AgFunderNews) - Plant-based food manufacturers face new FDA requirements to specify plant sources in product names, sparking industry backlash over what critics call discriminatory labeling rules.
Labour hopes ‘new deal for farmers’ can reset relationship with industry (The Guardian) - Labour's proposed farming deal aims to boost profitability while retaining inheritance tax reforms and subsidy reductions, despite ongoing industry concerns.
Carbon
Watershed expands carbon accounting tools while InPlanet achieves ERW credit milestone; research reveals CO2's historic climate role and stratospheric particle injection potential; Gulf Coast leads CCUS permits as state oil firms face methane scrutiny
ATMOSPHERIC CHEMISTRY (EnergyCentral) - Scientists report intricate links between greenhouse gases, ozone depletion and photochemical reactions are reshaping Earth's atmospheric layers and climate systems.
Carbon dioxide has been regulating Earth’s climate for hundreds of millions of years – new study (The Conversation) - Scientists have discovered that CO2 levels controlled Earth's temperature swings and glacial periods between 370-290 million years ago during the Late Palaeozoic ice age.
December 2024 product updates (Watershed) - Leading carbon accounting platform Watershed expands capabilities with new learning courses, approval workflows, supplier auto-mapping, and multiple footprint management features in latest update.
InPlanet & ClimeFi Deliver World’s First Verified ERW Carbon Removal Credits (CleanTechnica) - Brazilian carbon removal firm InPlanet has delivered 235.53 tons of verified Enhanced Rock Weathering credits to payment platform Adyen, marking a global first in carbon credit verification.
National oil companies and the global methane opportunity (EDF+Business) - State-owned oil companies, which account for more than 50 percent of global oil and gas methane emissions, hold a pivotal role in curbing climate change despite their vested interests in fossil fuels.
Profile: Who Is Terra.do’s Dr. Janice Lao? (Terra.do) - Environmental scientist Dr. Janice Lao brings 20 years of corporate carbon reduction expertise to Terra.do's sustainability courses, following her work with firms like Cathay Pacific Airways.
Ready, Set, Go: Positioning Your Business for Success in Texas and Gulf Coast CCUS (Energy Central) - Gulf Coast states lead nation's carbon capture expansion with 121 Class-VI injection permits filed in Texas and Louisiana, despite ongoing EPA regulatory hurdles.
Severe Cold Spells May Persist Because of Warming, Not in Spite of It (Yale E360) - Arctic warming has weakened the polar jet stream by 13 percent since 1979, triggering more frequent cold spells in southern regions despite rising global temperatures.
Stratospheric injection of solid particles could reduce climate change impacts (ETH Zurich) - Scientists report solid particles like diamond and alumina injected into Earth's stratosphere could combat climate change more safely than sulfur dioxide methods, according to research from ETH Zurich.
U.S. LNG Cos Must Comply With International Methane Rules To Compete (Forbes) - U.S. liquefied natural gas exporters face mounting pressure to meet global methane standards as European and Asian markets demand stricter emissions compliance.
We only have time to focus on proven solutions for carbon removal (BusinessGreen) - Investors are being urged to back nature-based carbon removal solutions, which are 40 times more cost-effective than engineered alternatives requiring significant research investment.
World’s First Enhanced Rock Weathering Carbon Removal Credits Issued (InPlanet) - Brazilian farmers have sequestered CO2 permanently through accelerated rock weathering, earning the world's first verified carbon removal credits for this natural process.
Circular
DOE grants fuel Toyota's EV battery recycling facility and critical mineral recovery from coal waste, while wind turbine recycling hits 90% and plant-based tableware advances decomposition solutions
Toyota Motor North America lands $4.5M DOE grant for EV battery recycling (Utility Dive) - Toyota secured a $4.5M Department of Energy grant to develop an automated EV battery recycling facility template alongside Oak Ridge National Lab and industry partners.
U.S. Department of Energy Invests $45 Million to Support Regional Consortia Focused on Securing Domestic Critical Minerals and Materials (CleanTechnica) - The Department of Energy has allocated $45 million across six regional consortia to extract critical minerals from coal byproducts and mining waste, strengthening domestic supply chains.
USA Can Recycle 90% of Wind Turbine Mass (CleanTechnica) - US infrastructure can currently recycle 90% of wind turbine materials, as officials commit $20M to develop technologies targeting the remaining 10%.
Why Switching to Eco-Friendly Tableware Is the Best New Year Resolution? (EcoSoul Home) - Plant-based tableware decomposes within weeks, offering a sustainable shift from single-use plastics that take centuries to break down.
Ecosystems
Canal & River Trust study highlights UK waterways' climate resilience, while global research tracks Arctic ice decline, Atlantic puffin light pollution impacts, and widespread ecosystem threats from LA wildfires to Bornean orangutan habitat loss
Aridification is More Dire than Drought (Energy Central) - Alarming research reveals three-quarters of Earth's land faces aridification, with drylands already consuming 40% of habitable areas and expected to expand substantially by 2100.
Atlantic puffins are perilously attracted to artificial light, new study shows (Mongabay) - Scientists report that 39 young Atlantic puffins were drawn to artificial light during experiments, marking the first evidence of light pollution's deadly impact on the seabirds.
Canals have vital role to play in UK’s climate resilience, says charity (The Guardian) - Britain's 2,000-mile canal network serves as a vital climate defense system, protecting biodiversity while providing water security, urban cooling, and flood protection, according to a new Canal & River Trust study.
COP16 underscored need for increased global collaboration on biodiversity targets (CGIAR) - Global leaders at COP16 emphasized water management and ecosystem protection while calling for enhanced international partnerships to meet biodiversity targets.
Fast-moving wildfire consumes Los Angeles county as residents evacuate - video (The Guardian) - A raging wildfire has scorched 1,200 acres in Pacific Palisades, forcing evacuations across Los Angeles County as extreme winds fuel the flames amid emergency declarations.
Fast-moving wildfire destroys homes as strong winds hit southern California (The Guardian) - A raging wildfire in Los Angeles County's Pacific Palisades has consumed 2,900 acres and destroyed homes as 80mph winds force mass evacuations and emergency declarations.
Ice patches on Beartooth Plateau reveal how ancient landscape differed from today's (ScienceDaily) - Ancient forest remnants discovered 600 feet above Montana's current tree line suggest the Beartooth Plateau had significantly higher vegetation during warmer conditions 6,000 years ago.
India’s latest forest cover report hints at countrywide degradation (Mongabay) - India's forest cover assessment reveals widespread degradation, with 46,707 square kilometers lost and 40,709 square kilometers declining in density since 2013, despite ongoing plantation initiatives.
Indonesian company defies order, plants acacia in orangutan habitat (Mongabay) - Indonesian firm PT Mayawana Persada has planted acacia on cleared peatlands, defying government orders and threatening 90,000 hectares of critical Bornean orangutan habitat.
Marked decrease in Arctic pressure ridges (ScienceDaily) - Arctic pressure ridges have declined 12-14% per decade, according to a 30-year aerial survey showing climate change's impact on multiyear ice formations.
Planting the wrong trees in the wrong places can diminish their cooling benefits (Anthropocene Magazine) - Global research shows urban trees' cooling effects vary significantly across climate zones, with improper species selection reducing temperature benefits by up to 12°C in tropical cities.
Plants that evolved in Florida over millennia now face extinction and lack protection (The Conversation) - Florida's ancient scrub mint species face a dire future, as 13 of 24 known varieties lack proper legal safeguards due to misclassification, hampering vital conservation work.
This week’s unholy mix of drought, wind, and fire in Southern California (Yale Climate Connections) - Fierce Santa Ana winds reaching 100mph are fueling fast-moving fires across drought-stricken Southern California, prompting 30,000 evacuations near Los Angeles.
We need a North Pole Marine Reserve to secure a healthy future for Arctic waters (commentary) (Mongabay) - Arctic experts urge creation of North Pole Marine Reserve, drawing parallels to Grand Banks' cod collapse while expanding upon current Central Arctic Ocean fishing regulations.
What is biomimicry? The tech lessons we can learn from plants and animals (Yale Climate Connections) - Scientists explore nature's designs, including pine needle-inspired fog harvesters, termite mound architecture, and synthetic leaves for fuel production, to advance sustainable technology.
Wildfires are raging through the US west. Here’s how to protect yourself (The Guardian) - Amid intensifying wildfires across the western United States, experts urge residents to create evacuation plans and safeguard homes as fire incidents reach record levels.
How weather disasters strain animal shelters (Yale Climate Connections) - Hurricane Helene triggered the evacuation of 800 shelter animals in North Carolina, overwhelming regional facilities amid rising owner surrenders and damaged infrastructure.
Jane Goodall awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom (Mongabay) - Renowned primatologist Jane Goodall has been awarded America's highest civilian honor for her decades of pioneering research and unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.
With low population numbers, Andean condors to benefit from new Peña Rajada municipal protected area in Bolivia’s Tarija department (Andes Amazon Fund) - Bolivia has established a 55,237-acre protected area in Tarija to safeguard endangered Andean condors and their high-altitude habitat.
Efficiency
NYC and St. Louis mandate building emissions cuts by 2025; data centers strain power grids; Getty's fire systems tested; Mass. launches $16.3B efficiency plan; AI weather models need physics upgrade
Big buildings are a climate problem. These policies aim to fix that. (Canary Media) - Two major U.S. cities are spearheading emissions-reduction mandates for large buildings, with New York and St. Louis setting 2025 deadlines for initial compliance.
Big tech must stop passing the cost of its spiking energy needs onto the public (Utility Dive) - Data centers' soaring power consumption could cost consumers an extra 1% on energy bills yearly until 2032, with $2 trillion needed globally for new infrastructure, analysts report.
Fire reaches Getty Villa museum grounds in California, but structures not burned (The Guardian) - Fire prevention measures safeguarded the Getty Villa's structures and art collection as a 3,000-acre windstorm-fueled blaze reached museum grounds in Los Angeles.
More heat pumps and help for renters: What’s in the new Mass Save plan (Acadia Center) - Massachusetts' new energy efficiency plan commits unprecedented funding for heat pumps and renter support, despite concerns over the $16.3 billion price tag for climate initiatives.
To ensure trust, AI weather-forecast models still need training in physics (Nature) - Scientists report AI weather models must incorporate physics principles to match traditional forecasting methods, despite offering predictions up to 1,000 times faster.
Finance
$30B climate tech investment decline amid rate pressures, $1.8T total cleantech funding, new carbon-backed currency from Toco, and $100K Asia-Pacific environmental media grants
🌏 $30bn and 14% fall as market finds new normal in ‘24 (CTVC) - Climate tech investment dropped 14% to $30bn across 1,460 deals in 2024, signaling market stabilization despite ongoing rate pressures and policy delays.
165. Predictions for 2025 - Redefining Energy podcast (Redefining Energy) - Energy analysts forecast US oil output drops and $40 oil prices next year, alongside record renewable installations, hydrogen transport setbacks and ESG investment product terminations.
Biodiversity credits are more problematic than carbon credits (Nature) - Scientists warn that biodiversity credit markets contain inherent design flaws making them significantly more challenging to implement than carbon credit trading systems.
DEADLINE: EJN Asia Pacific Media Grants 2025 (SEJ) - Environmental organizations across Asia-Pacific can apply for grants up to $20,000 from a $100,000 fund supporting media coverage, with applications closing January 30, 2025.
Guest article: Why agtech needs new capital models to transcend the caloricene — and investors who can keep up (AgFunderNews) - Agricultural investors must embrace longer 10-15 year funding models beyond venture capital to shift farming's focus from caloric output toward nutrition and environmental sustainability.
Sustainability Reporting Europe 2025 (Energy Central) - Leading sustainability experts will gather in London for expanded case studies and workshops at the 2025 Energy Central conference, responding to industry demand for deeper engagement.
Turning Carbon into Currency: A step towards climate action. (Toco) - Danish startup Toco unveils a new currency system that incentivizes eco-friendly purchases by backing money with carbon credits, offering an alternative to conventional debt-based financial systems.
What Following the Money Tells Us about Achieving Our Climate Goals? (Energy Central) - Investment trends show cleantech funding reached $1.8 trillion in 2023, signaling strong market alignment between profit motives and climate action goals.
Grid
Record-low UK grid emissions, DOE storage cost targets, BluWave-ai's EV charging system, and MISO's $23.1B transmission expansion lead grid modernization efforts as tech giants reshape power generation landscape
A record-breaking year': NESO confirms grid reached lowest carbon intensity on record in 2024 (BusinessGreen) - Britain's power grid hit a historic low of 132g of CO2 per kilowatt hour in 2024, as renewables surged and the nation's final coal plant closed its doors.
New normal': Energy overtakes transport as top climate tech investment category (BusinessGreen) - Energy sector climate tech funding surged 12 percent to $9.4bn in 2024, overtaking transport investments amid rising power demands from data centers and AI infrastructure.
DOE issues draft energy storage road map to accelerate cost reductions, diversify supply (Utility Dive) - The Department of Energy aims to slash long-duration storage costs to $0.05/kWh while reducing lithium-ion battery reliance from its current 95% market share.
EV Demand Management Aggregation Is Commercializing (CleanTechnica) - Artificial intelligence firm BluWave-ai has launched a system that manages thousands of electric vehicles' charging patterns to reduce grid strain while maintaining battery levels for utilities.
Factors Impacting the Transition to Carbon-Free Energy (POWER Magazine) - Experts identify intermittent supply, storage limitations, and demand forecasting as major hurdles in achieving complete carbon-free energy adoption.
FERC Sides with New England Developers on Interconnection Complaint (RTO Insider) - Federal regulators ruled against New England transmission owners, blocking their ability to charge interconnection customers for system upgrade maintenance costs.
Generational Shift—Data Centers Bring Change to Energy Landscape (POWER Magazine) - Tech giants Google, Microsoft, and Amazon are reshaping power generation by diversifying into nuclear, renewables, and gas to power their data centers' growing electricity demands.
GridBeyond Forms Strategic Partnership with Kanematsu Corporation to Promote Demand Response Initiatives in Japan (GridBeyond) - Leading AI energy firm GridBeyond partners with Japanese trading giant Kanematsu to expand demand-side response solutions across Japan's growing energy market.
GridBeyond’s optimization software outperformed competitors by up to 40% in 2024 (GridBeyond) - GridBeyond's battery storage software delivered 40% higher performance than rivals during peak conditions in Texas's ERCOT market this August.
Groups Collaborate on Off-Grid Power Solutions for EV Hubs, Data Centers (POWER Magazine) - Two energy firms join forces to deliver off-grid power solutions for EV charging hubs and data centers, promising three-month installations for small projects and up to 18 months for larger facilities.
Hopewind Develops Comprehensive Energy Storage Testing Solution (TaiyangNews) - Chinese firm Hopewind has unveiled a 5MW energy storage testing platform, complete with PCS station and management system, to enhance grid-connected testing capabilities.
Is the Texas Grid Ready for a Winter Storm? (Heatmap News) - Texas grid operator ERCOT has issued a weather watch ahead of predicted record snowfall in Dallas, though normal conditions are expected.
Legal snafu over canceled natural gas plant site ensnares Connecticut energy storage project (Energy News Network) - A 325-megawatt battery storage facility in Connecticut remains stalled as an existing gas plant permit blocks development at the strategic site connecting nuclear and offshore wind power.
Microgrids boost grid reliability, lower costs: Colorado road map (Utility Dive) - New Colorado roadmap reveals microgrids could enhance power reliability by 35% and slash costs for rural communities facing grid vulnerabilities.
Midwest to lead in ‘build, baby, build’ (Utility Dive) - The Midcontinent Independent System Operator has approved 24 transmission projects, set to generate $23.1 billion in benefits and create 22,000 jobs across the Midwest over two decades.
Powin’s ESG-Driven Supply Chain: Leading with Sustainability and Integrity (Powin) - Energy storage firm Powin has implemented comprehensive ESG measures, conducting supplier audits and reducing carbon emissions while ensuring ethical sourcing across its operations.
Solar Microgrids for Data Centers? Not as Crazy as It Sounds! (Heatmap News) - Solar microgrids with gas backup could power AI data centers at $93/MWh, undercutting both nuclear and pure gas alternatives, according to new analysis.
Technology Has Transformed Energy Deployment; O&M is Next (Sitetracker) - Deployment Operations Management systems are transforming renewable energy infrastructure by enabling simultaneous design, construction, and management of dispersed assets.
The Smart Electric Power Alliance Acquires Public Utilities Fortnightly (SEPA) - Leading energy advocate SEPA expands its clean energy influence by acquiring Public Utilities Fortnightly magazine and events platform, reaching 75,000 additional industry professionals.
Transboundary collaboration on the Limpopo (CGIAR) - Scientists have implemented Africa's first digital twin river modeling system in the Limpopo Basin, enabling coordinated water management across four nations.
US Government Agrees To 10-Year Nuclear Power Plan (CleanTechnica) - The US government has signed a $1 billion deal with Constellation Energy to power federal buildings with nuclear energy over the next decade in the Washington DC area.
Virginia to get world’s first commercial fusion power plant (Utility Dive) - A pioneering 400MW fusion power plant will be built in Virginia's Chesterfield County through a partnership between Commonwealth Fusion Systems and Dominion Energy.
Why Utilities Can’t Afford to Wait to Deploy DLR (POWER Magazine) - Dynamic Line Rating technology enables utilities to boost transmission capacity up to 40% at $50,000 per mile, saving millions compared to new lines while cutting daily congestion costs by up to $250,000.
Natural Gas: Africa’s Bridge to Energy Security and Economic Growth (Energy Central) - Africa's vast natural gas reserves could power 600 million homes across the continent, with major developments in Mozambique, Nigeria, and Egypt leading efforts to boost economic growth while cutting emissions.
ERCOT issues weather watch amid freezing temperatures (GridBeyond) - Texas grid operator warns of potential record-breaking 71GW electricity demand during five-day cold snap, though reserves remain sufficient to meet consumer needs.
Indigenous
Biden designates Chuckwalla and Sáttítla monuments, Fort Belknap restores buffalo herds, while Indigenous networks in Brazil's Rio Negro and First Nations in Western Australia advance climate initiatives
An Elven Alliance Is Protecting Iceland’s Natural Wonders (Atmos) - Iceland's long-held belief in elves has safeguarded natural landscapes since the 1930s, with 62% of citizens acknowledging their potential existence and environmental laws protecting their habitats.
Biden designates two new national monuments after advocacy from tribes (The Guardian) - President Biden has designated 840,000 acres of tribal lands in California as the Chuckwalla and Sáttítla national monuments, following calls from Indigenous communities to protect the areas from development.
Buffalo, Water, and Climate: How Fort Belknap Faces the Climate Crisis Through Indigenous Stewardship (Protect Our Winters) - Indigenous tribes at Fort Belknap Reservation are restoring buffalo herds and preserving water resources despite infrastructure gaps, with 1,000 bison now roaming their ancestral lands.
Burning for Better in Southwest Montana (Fire Networks) - Montana agencies and landowners have united to conduct a 1,300-acre prescribed burn in Mill Gulch, aiming to protect sagebrush habitat and reduce wildfire threats.
Celebrating 10 Years of the Blog! (Fire Networks) - Network marks decade-long milestone with 680-plus published stories from global practitioners, researchers and indigenous communities sharing wildfire resilience strategies.
Community Weaving for Eco-Cultural Restoration: Partnering with Tribes in Lake County, CA (Fire Networks) - Local tribes and scientists unite in Lake County, California, combining traditional Pomo knowledge with modern research to protect Clear Lake's watershed and reduce wildfire risks.
Comunicação indígena será decisiva para enfrentar mudanças climáticas em 2025 (ISA) - Indigenous communication networks in Brazil's Rio Negro region will lead climate change response efforts in 2025 through traditional knowledge sharing and environmental monitoring.
Dried halibut and whale jerky: how a traditional Inuit diet fuelled an epic kayak adventure (The Guardian) - British chef Mike Keen paddled 3,000km along Greenland's coast while eating only traditional Inuit foods, resulting in improved health markers and significant weight loss.
Engaging Communities with Prescribed Fire: Lessons Learned from PBA Outreach in Fire-Prone Areas (Fire Networks) - Fire-prone communities in Trinity County are embracing prescribed burn initiatives through trauma-informed workshops, strategic facilitation, and sustained follow-up efforts, reports The Watershed Center.
Escape Into the Story: Three Longform Reads for Your Weekend (Fire Networks) - Interactive narratives delve into wilderness fire management, Texas wildfire resilience, and Fire Learning Network partnerships through three new StoryMaps.
Grounding in Our Collective Power: Victories for the Amazon from 2024 (Amazon Watch) - Indigenous activists secured major wins across the Amazon in 2024, blocking Peru's oil expansion, stopping Brazil's largest gold mine, and advancing native land rights in multiple regions.
The Warmth That Keeps Us Coming Back (Fire Networks) - Despite mounting health risks and losses in 2024, fire leader Lenya Quinn-Davidson emphasizes the vital role of human connection and hospitality within fire management culture.
Travelling in 2025? Here’s how to become a ‘regenerative’ tourist (The Conversation) - Experts predict a surge in 'regenerative tourism' by 2025, where visitors engage in local cultural activities and environmental projects rather than simply consuming experiences.
Untrammeling the Wilderness (Fire Networks) - Scientists urge federal wilderness managers to embrace prescribed and Indigenous burning practices, citing data showing 120 years of fire suppression has damaged natural ecosystems.
Voces del Fuego (Voices of Fire) (Fire Networks) - Fifty fire practitioners from 27 organizations across eight countries unite in California's first Spanish-language prescribed burn training, captured in the film "Voces del Fuego."
Western Australia Awards AUD 16 Million For Clean Energy Projects (TaiyangNews) - Western Australia has allocated AUD 16 million across seven clean energy initiatives, including First Nations solar projects, aiming to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 175,000 tons annually.
Cargos Comunitários em Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca, México (Meli-Bees) - Indigenous residents of Teotitlán del Valle, Mexico preserve their centuries-old cargo system of voluntary community service roles while integrating modern administrative practices.
Industry
BMW i Ventures backs Phoenix Tailings' rare metals plant, while Huasun Energy and SINGULUS advance HJT production; Fusion cuts silver in PV paste as US clean energy manufacturing surges 5x since 2021
Bangladesh must move from ‘fast fashion’ to ‘defashion’ to improve human & ecological wellbeing (commentary) (Mongabay) - Bangladesh's $33-billion fashion industry has displaced communities and damaged ecosystems near Dhaka, sparking urgent calls for a return to sustainable, locally-sourced clothing production.
BMW shores up EV rare earth materials source (Utility Dive) - BMW i Ventures secures sustainable rare earth metals through a $13M investment in Phoenix Tailings' New Hampshire plant, set to begin production in June 2025.
China Solar PV News Snippets: Huasun Completes HJT Vertical Integration & More (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar manufacturer Huasun Energy marks vertical HJT integration milestone with first silicon ingot production, having shipped over 10GW of modules amid nationwide industry expansion.
Fusion PV Paste Solutions Come With Lower Silver Concentration (TaiyangNews) - Chinese materials maker Fusion has achieved 55% silver reduction in PV paste production, aiming for 90% reduction by Q2 2025 while preserving cell efficiency.
Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Reviewers Needed! (CleanTechnica) - Subject matter experts are being sought by the US Department of Energy to evaluate funding applications and projects related to clean hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
Optera and SPS Commerce join forces to accelerate retail supply chain sustainability (Optera) - Two leading supply chain firms unite to launch a unified emissions data-sharing platform in early 2025, aiming to enhance retailer-supplier sustainability reporting.
SINGULUS Tools For High-Throughput HJT Cell Production (TaiyangNews) - German equipment supplier SINGULUS Technologies unveils HJT cell production tools capable of processing up to 14,000 wafers hourly, with flexible tray design supporting all wafer formats through G12/G12 half-cut.
The Renewable Energy Transition Has Residents of a Small Arizona Town on Edge (Inside Climate News) - Residents of Patagonia, Arizona, fear a federally-backed mine for critical minerals could threaten their groundwater supply, despite company assurances of responsible water management.
The US clean energy manufacturing revolution is real (Canary Media) - US clean energy manufacturing has surged since 2021, with solar panel production increasing fivefold and battery cell output projected to meet domestic demand by 2030.
YourBuddy’s Ultra-fine Low-Temperature Ribbons For ZBB Modules (TaiyangNews) - YourBuddy's new ultra-fine triangular ribbons, enhanced with rare earth elements, promise superior corrosion resistance for ZBB solar modules at low temperatures.
Lead pollution likely caused widespread IQ declines in ancient Rome, new study finds (ScienceDaily) - Lead pollution from Roman mining caused a 2-3 point IQ decline across Europe during the Empire's peak, according to Arctic ice core analysis.
The 4 Key Trends That Will Shape Hospitality Operations in 2025 (Winnow Solutions) - Global hospitality leaders are pivoting towards AI operations, employee wellness programs, enhanced profit strategies and fortified supply networks as the sector confronts persistent workforce shortages.
Policy
Biden bans offshore drilling across 253M hectares of US waters while maintaining Gulf operations; Trump pledges reversal alongside fossil fuel expansion; House GOP eases federal land transfers; IRS extends clean energy tax credits through 2025
‘How long can I stay?’ Families tell of last-minute escape from California wildfire (The Guardian) - Families in Pacific Palisades faced terrifying escapes on a single road flanked by flames as wildfires forced sudden evacuations across the affluent Los Angeles neighborhood.
Now is the time to protect these coasts': President Biden expands US offshore drilling ban (BusinessGreen) - President Biden has banned offshore drilling across 253 million hectares of US coastal waters, despite incoming President-elect Trump's pledge to reverse the decision.
2025 From A to Z (The Revelator) - Environmental experts forecast a turbulent 2025, with climate threats and activist movements taking center stage amid potential political shifts in the United States.
7 Very Trumpy Things Trump Said About Clean Energy Today (Heatmap News) - Former President Trump pledges to overturn Biden's offshore drilling restrictions, eliminate electric vehicle requirements, and halt wind farm development during his first Mar-a-Lago briefing since certification.
A New Energy Book, "The Iron Triangle Of Energy: How To Improve Energy Cost, Reliability, & Emissions” by Ronald L. Miller (Energy Central) - A new book examines energy policy through twelve recommendations aimed at balancing cost, reliability and emissions across the power sector.
AI, GIGO, And You (CleanTechnica) - A Toronto design professor cautions that AI tools could displace creative jobs while tech giants profit, raising alarms about the future of artistic work.
Biden administration announces permanent ban on offshore drilling off Atlantic, Pacific coasts (SELC) - The Biden administration has enacted a permanent ban on offshore oil and gas drilling along America's Atlantic and Pacific coasts, expanding upon a previous 10-year moratorium.
Biden Administration Finalizes Rule for Clean Electricity, But Threats Remain (Friends of the Earth) - The Biden administration's finalized Clean Electricity Tax Credits rule rejects carbon offsets but faces uncertainty over biomass eligibility and potential Trump-era implementation challenges.
Biden bans most new US offshore oil and gas drilling in clean energy push (Utility Dive) - The White House has banned new offshore drilling across 625 million acres of US coastline while maintaining operations in central and western Gulf of Mexico regions.
Biden bans new drilling in US coastal waters weeks before Trump handover (The Guardian) - US President Biden blocks offshore drilling across 253m hectares of coastal waters, including Atlantic, Pacific and Alaskan regions, just weeks before Trump's promised reversal upon taking office.
Biden Just Issued a Huge Offshore Drilling Ban (Heatmap News) - The White House has banned new offshore oil and gas drilling across 625 million acres of U.S. coastal waters, spanning the East Coast, eastern Gulf of Mexico, and Pacific regions.
Clean Energy Tax Credits Can Keep Record U.S. Investment Going (EDF) - New IRS guidance extends clean electricity tax credits through 2025, aiming to sustain America's record $261 billion investment in renewable energy projects.
Clean energy, electric cars, climate: What will Trump do? (DW) - Trump's agenda targets clean energy by slashing tax credits, ramping up fossil fuels, and exiting the Paris climate accord, while nominating officials who oppose environmental protections.
Climate crisis ‘wreaking havoc’ on Earth’s water cycle, report finds (The Guardian) - Global heating wreaked havoc on Earth's water cycle last year, causing $550bn in damage, killing 8,700 people and displacing 40 million through extreme weather events.
Climate extremes in 2024 'wreaking havoc' on the global water cycle (ScienceDaily) - Extreme temperatures in 2024 intensified global water patterns, causing $550B in damages, claiming 8,700 lives and forcing 40M people from their homes through floods, droughts and storms.
Climate-Focused Foreign Aid Advances U.S. Interests Abroad, Outgoing USAID Official Says (InsideClimateNews) - Outgoing USAID climate officer defends $679 million climate aid program as crucial to U.S. security and economic interests amid looming budget cuts.
Community Wildfire Defense Grants: A Round Three Application Primer (Fire Networks) - US Forest Service launches $200 million grant program, enabling communities and Tribes to mitigate wildfire risks through February 2025.
Congress Is Setting Up for a Public Lands Sell-Off (Heatmap News) - House Republicans approved new rules that could enable widespread drilling and privatization by making it easier to transfer millions of acres of federal lands to local control.
DEADLINE: EJN Virtual Media Workshop on the 30x30 Target and Marine Protected Areas (SEJ) - Earth Journalism Network seeks coastal journalists for virtual training on marine '30x30' conservation reporting, with applications due January 16, 2025.
Federal Funding Landscape Under Trump 2.0 – How to Prepare (Environmental Protection Network) - Federal environmental advocates urge accelerated grant processing and legal aid to safeguard $9 billion in community funding before potential White House transition in 2025.
Five green business stories you may have missed (BusinessGreen) - Major green economy policies unveiled during the 2024-25 holiday season are set to reshape business sustainability practices across multiple sectors.
Floods linked to rise in US deaths from several major causes (ScienceDaily) - Large floods across America have triggered up to 24.9% higher death rates from injuries and infectious diseases over two decades, with both snowmelt and rain-related flooding proving lethal.
Former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres remains optimistic despite disappointing COP process (Mongabay) - Despite COP29's shortcomings, former UN climate chief Christiana Figueres points to accelerating global decarbonization through market forces and technological advances as reasons for active optimism.
Global Populists Have a New Take on Climate Policy (Heatmap News) - Right-wing populists gaining power across Europe and U.S. are opposing climate policies while experts warn this could trigger a cycle of increased migration and stronger anti-immigrant sentiment.
If Republicans Kill EV Subsidies, Sales Could Drop 27% (CleanTechnica) - New consumer data shows electric vehicle sales could plummet by 27% if government incentives are eliminated, according to a Deloitte survey of potential buyers.
In 2025 the world will be… what we make it! (350.org) - Global climate advocates face mounting challenges amid political shifts, as U.S. policy reversals threaten progress ahead of Brazil's COP30 summit.
Integrating historic data stands to improve climate models in the Global South (ScienceDaily) - Researchers have enhanced climate models for Tanzania by combining modern data with 19th-century missionary and explorer records, potentially benefiting other Global South regions.
Interactive: How the world is already adapting to climate change (Carbon Brief) - Analysis of 1,682 climate adaptation cases shows most responses are local and behavioral, with water hazards driving adaptation efforts across the globe.
International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI) (ICCI) - Scientists warn accelerating snow and ice loss could trigger $100 trillion in global economic damage by 2050, according to a major cryosphere report.
Mis/Dis/Mal-information - Out truth is the only truth. (Energy Central) - Global watchdogs challenge UN's latest climate disinformation campaign, warning it could stifle scientific debate and alternative climate research perspectives.
More of our ocean wildlife spared from drilling (Environment America) - The Biden administration has banned offshore drilling across 73% of federal waters, protecting marine ecosystems and coastal communities in four major U.S. ocean regions.
Net zero took great strides last year - but the UK must go further and faster in 2025 (BusinessGreen) - Despite the UK green economy's growth in 2024, experts warn faster net-zero progress is essential for meeting climate targets in 2025.
New Offshore Oil & Gas Drilling Ban: Implications For Clean Hydrogen (CleanTechnica) - The White House's sweeping 625-million-acre ocean drilling ban could accelerate clean hydrogen adoption by driving up natural gas prices and promoting alternative production methods.
PFAS Contamination in the USA: A Growing Concern (KETOS) - Tests reveal 45% of US water systems contain PFAS chemicals above new EPA safety limits, raising concerns for millions of Americans' drinking water safety.
Physicians group warns against propping up biodiesel as part of Massachusetts’ clean heat transition (Energy News Network) - Medical experts caution that biodiesel's role in Massachusetts' clean heating plan could pose health risks and impede the state's shift toward heat pump adoption.
President Biden bans offshore oil and gas drilling for many U.S. waters (Mongabay) - President Biden has banned new offshore oil and gas drilling across 2.5 million square kilometers of U.S. waters, while preserving operations in Alaska's key regions and the central/western Gulf of Mexico.
Registration for the eighth session of the Global Platform 2025 and Field Visits is now open (UNDRR) - Registration opens for the UN's eighth Global Platform conference on disaster risk reduction, with field visits to Swiss management sites planned during the June 2-6, 2025 Geneva summit.
Repression of climate and environmental protest is intensifying across the world (Climate Home News) - Harsh policing, activist killings, and anti-protest laws are increasingly targeting climate demonstrators worldwide, according to a new global study.
Solar and Storage Industry Statement on Final Rules for Technology-Neutral Energy Tax Credits (CleanTechnica) - US energy officials unveil tax incentives designed to boost domestic solar manufacturing and add 200GW of capacity within five years.
Southern California warned of ‘life-threatening, destructive’ windstorm (The Guardian) - Fierce winds up to 100mph threaten Southern California with extreme fire risks and power cuts for 300,000 customers amid an unusually dry January.
Tackling gender inequality will uplift sustainability efforts (BusinessGreen) - Female representation in STEM fields could accelerate sustainability goals and net zero targets, with research showing diverse teams are 21% more likely to achieve environmental objectives.
That Arctic blast can feel brutally cold, but how much colder than ‘normal’ is it really? (The Conversation) - Current Arctic temperatures feel more extreme because modern baselines, which shift every 30 years, obscure long-term warming patterns across the United States.
The Carter/Reagan moment and the Biden/Trump moment (The Crucial Years) - A stark parallel emerges between Carter's abandoned solar plans and today's Biden-Trump climate divide, as history threatens to repeat Reagan's dismantling of clean energy progress.
The Fight for Justice, Climate Action, and Economic Equity in Our New Reality (ActionAid USA) - Amid leadership changes, ActionAid USA continues its fight for social justice and climate action, with notable victories in community activism against TIAA and youth advocacy programs.
The Truth Behind Forest Management: Dr. Chad Hanson on The Deception of Thinning and Fire Prevention (The Wildlife News) - Research ecologist Dr. Chad Hanson disputes U.S. Forest Service's logging-based fire prevention strategies, advocating for prioritizing home protection measures over forest thinning practices.
Towards a Climate Security Observatory 2.0: lessons from a year of implementation (CGIAR) - Global climate security platform marks milestone year with 6,000-plus visits across 122 countries, influencing policies in Kenya, Senegal, and Zambia, as developers plan 2025 upgrade.
Understanding CSRD Assurance in Ireland (Future Planet) - Independent assurance and auditing of sustainability reports will be mandatory for large Irish companies and listed SMEs under new CSRD regulations requiring verified ESG data compliance.
US Puts CATL On Military Blacklist (CleanTechnica) - Chinese battery giant CATL, which supplies Tesla and Ford, has been added to a US military blacklist due to alleged links with Beijing's armed forces.
Virginia’s Sunny Future: Solar & Storage is the First Energy Legislation of 2025 to Advance from CEUR to General Assembly (Advanced Energy United) - Virginia's utility commission has advanced legislation to expedite solar and battery storage projects exceeding 20MW, marking the state's first energy bill of 2025.
What can the UK green economy expect in 2025? (BusinessGreen) - Britain's green sector braces for sweeping changes to net zero plans and power markets as the nation hits its halfway mark toward 2050 climate goals.
Why anger, anxiety and anguish are understandable psychological reactions to the climate crisis (The Conversation) - Research reveals climate anxiety affects daily life for 45% of young people, while 73% of UK youth express fear about their future due to environmental threats.
Best Practices for EPA Grantees: Four things you can do RIGHT NOW to help you protect your federal funding in 2025 (Environmental Protection Network) - Federal grantees can safeguard EPA funding through proper documentation, compliance monitoring, and communication strategies, according to new guidance from the Environmental Protection Network.
Environmental groups sue FDA over refusal to tackle risky plastic packaging (The Guardian) - Environmental groups have launched legal action against the FDA for allowing phthalates in food packaging, despite studies linking the chemicals to developmental issues in children.
Five Signs Our Country Isn’t Lost (IPS-DC) - Progressive movements gain momentum across America with 75% of union votes succeeding, climate spending reaching $369 billion, and ballot measures passing in 28 states despite political headwinds.
Texas, Utah, Last Energy challenge NRC’s ‘overburdensome’ microreactor regulations (Utility Dive) - Two states and a nuclear developer have sued federal regulators over microreactor licensing rules they claim exceed legal authority and create unnecessary hurdles for the industry.
The Failures of the Biden Administration (The Wildlife News) - Federal conservation efforts face mounting criticism as Biden's policies fail to reverse Trump-era environmental rollbacks affecting 245 million acres of BLM lands and 193 million acres of national forests.
Renewables
SolarEdge cuts 400 jobs while JinkoSolar, Huasun, and JA Solar advance efficiency records; EDP, RWE, and JSW Neo Energy drive major solar acquisitions; Germany hits 100GW milestone as Meta, Amazon diverge on data center sustainability approaches
‘He was prescient’: Jimmy Carter, the environment and the road not taken (The Guardian) - Carter's 1979 White House solar panels and conservation of 157 million acres symbolized early environmental leadership, before his 1980 defeat halted America's nascent climate efforts.
400 more jobs on the chopping block: SolarEdge announces fourth layoff in a year (Renewable Energy World) - Israeli solar giant SolarEdge will cut 400 more jobs amid market pressures, bringing total layoffs to 2,200 since 2023.
Anker’s solar umbrella uses next-gen perovskite cells to keep a longer charge (The Verge) - Anker's new solar beach umbrella harnesses perovskite cells to deliver 100W output with 30% more efficiency than silicon cells.
Are renewable energy credits enough? Big tech companies take contrasting approaches to cleaning up their act (Renewable Energy World) - Tech giants diverge on data center sustainability, with Meta and Amazon focusing on RECs while Microsoft and Google pursue round-the-clock clean energy matching.
Chicago keeps its New Year’s resolution: All city buildings now use 100% clean power (Renewable Energy World) - Chicago's municipal buildings have switched to full renewable power through a solar farm partnership, eliminating 290,000 metric tons of annual carbon emissions.
China Solar PV News Snippets: Huasun Wins 840 MWp HJT Module Bids & More (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar manufacturer Huasun Energy secures 840 MWp heterojunction module contracts, with 339.68 MWp destined for China's first major offshore solar installation in Bohai Bay.
EDP Brings 300 MW of Solar Power Online in Southern California (PowerMag) - EDP Renewables has activated two solar farms in Kern County, California, delivering 300 MW of power under agreements with Shell Energy and Redwood Coast Energy Authority.
Efficiency Band Share In TOP SOLAR MODULES (TaiyangNews) - High-efficiency solar modules above 22.5% doubled their market presence to 28% in 2024, while traditional PERC modules dropped to 38% from 53% last year.
EQT & Temasek Selling Indian RE Platform For INR 125 Billion (TaiyangNews) - JSW Neo Energy will acquire O2 Power's 4.69 GW renewable energy portfolio from EQT and Temasek for INR 125 billion ($1.47 billion) in India.
Europe Solar PV News Snippets: RWE Secures 102 MW DC In Polish Auction & More (TaiyangNews) - European solar sector sees major deals as RWE secures 102 MW DC in Poland, while Renalfa acquires 258 MW AC in Romania and Three Gorges buys Spain's 494 MW Mula facility.
Fraunhofer ISE’s Baby TOPCon, Now Leading Solar PV Technology (TaiyangNews) - German research institute's TOPCon solar cell technology has risen to dominate photovoltaics, reaching 24% efficiency with potential for 26% through copper plating advances.
Germany Exceeds 100 GW Solar PV Capacity Milestone, Says BSW-Solar (TaiyangNews) - Germany has reached 100 GW of solar PV capacity, meeting 46% of its 2030 target, driven primarily by ground-mounted installations despite a decline in residential systems.
Hertfordshire solar farm developers promise 98 per cent Biodiversity Net Gain uplift (BusinessGreen) - Developers have submitted plans for a 49.9MW solar farm in Hertfordshire that promises to power 15,000 homes while delivering a 98 percent boost to local biodiversity.
India Solar PV News Snippets: Trial Production For Waaree’s 5.4 GW Cell Fab & More (TaiyangNews) - India's Waaree Energies launches trial production at its 5.4 GW solar cell facility in Gujarat while securing a 150 MW module order and 2 GW EPC contract from Jindal Renewables.
Jackery’s Solar Roof announced alongside a fast car charger and new solar generator (The Verge) - Jackery debuts 25-percent-efficient Solar Roof tiles in two colors, while introducing a 3kWh generator and 600W car charger at CES 2025.
JinkoSolar Claims 33.84% Perovskite Tandem Solar Cell Efficiency (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar giant JinkoSolar has achieved a new world record of 33.84% efficiency for their n-type TOPCon-based perovskite tandem solar cells, surpassing their previous 33.24% mark.
Kyoto Fusioneering – Launch of New R&D Centre and Relocation of Global Headquarters (Kyoto Fusioneering) - Japanese fusion energy firm Kyoto Fusioneering expands operations with a new Tokyo R&D facility while moving its global headquarters to boost power plant technology development.
Omkareshwar Floating Solar Park showcases scale and ambition of India’s clean energy goals: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi (AMP Energy) - India's ambitious 600-megawatt Omkareshwar Floating Solar Park will help meet the nation's goal of achieving 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Pursuit Of Excellence: JA Solar’s TOPCon Module (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar manufacturer JA Solar's advanced TOPCon modules reach 26.8% cell efficiency and 650W power output through enhanced metallization, edge passivation, and busbarless design.
Questions to Ask Yourself During Slow Season (Mosaic) - Solar firms can boost efficiency by analyzing sales data, customer feedback, and market trends during off-peak months, experts say.
SolarEdge Technologies Secures Safe Harbor Agreements In US (TaiyangNews) - Leading solar firm SolarEdge Technologies has secured safe harbor agreements with Sunrun and another residential provider while finalizing a second sale of 45X tax credits for US-manufactured equipment.
Tata Power Trading Company Seeking EOI For 500 MW RE (TaiyangNews) - India's Tata Power Trading Company is seeking expressions of interest for 500 MW renewable energy projects, offering 25-year firm generation tariffs for solar, wind, hybrid and hydro installations.
Thank you, President Carter (ThirdAct.org) - Former President Jimmy Carter's 1978 solar energy initiatives and humanitarian legacy continue to shape global energy policy and international aid efforts today.
The Product Horizon: What's Next For JinkoSolar? (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar giant JinkoSolar will roll out 670W Tiger Neo 3.0 modules with 24.8% efficiency in 2025, before shifting to tandem cells by 2027.
Trinasolar Sets 'World Record' For Heterojunction Solar Module (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar manufacturer Trinasolar has achieved 25.44% efficiency for its n-type heterojunction modules, setting a world record certified by Germany's Fraunhofer ISE.
U.S. Support and New Investments Buoy Hopes for Marine Energy (Yale E360) - Federal funding of $112.5 million for wave energy prototypes, coupled with new testing facilities, signals growing confidence in marine power's commercial future despite past setbacks.
Underwater robots could lower offshore renewable costs, Edinburgh study suggests (Renewable Energy World) - Researchers have developed wave-predicting submersible robots that could cut offshore wind maintenance costs by enabling autonomous operations in rough seas, a new Edinburgh study reveals.
Transport
DOE's $6.9M biofuel initiative, BYD's 485K EV sales lead, XPENG-VW charging network expansion, while Honda, Sony-Afeela, and Thomas Built advance electric vehicles; CATL faces US scrutiny as Tesla Cybertruck ranks third in sales
$6.9 Million in Projects to Support Effective Community Waste-to-Energy Strategies for Local Transportation Needs (CleanTechnica) - The Department of Energy will invest $6.9 million across nine projects in six states to transform local organic waste into low-carbon transport biofuels.
11% of Americans Plan to Buy Plugin Vehicle Next, 44% of Chinese Say So (CleanTechnica) - New survey shows Chinese consumers four times more likely than Americans to choose plug-in vehicles for their next purchase, while US hybrid interest grows 5%.
A company’s quest to make EV charging stations more reliable (Yale Climate Connections) - A California startup is training technicians to repair EV charging stations, where software glitches cause 80% of malfunctions between vehicles and payment systems.
A third of Americans don’t drive. So why is our transportation so car-centric? (Yale Climate Connections) - Despite one-third of Americans lacking driver's licenses, U.S. transportation infrastructure continues to prioritize cars, creating mobility barriers for millions who cannot or choose not to drive.
Are XPENG & Volkswagen A Match Made In Heaven? (CleanTechnica) - Chinese automaker XPENG and Volkswagen will share access to more than 20,000 charging stations across 420 cities, creating one of China's largest super-fast charging networks.
Charging Ahead: Key Geographical Clusters For Electric Trucks (CleanTechnica) - Key analysis reveals the West Coast and Northeast as optimal zones for electric truck charging networks, driven by strong GDP figures, climate policies, and low-carbon power grids.
From Snow to Heat, Extreme Weather Events Pose Outsized Risks for Food Delivery Workers (InsideClimateNews) - Surging food delivery orders during extreme weather events expose workers to dangerous conditions without proper protections, as they brave heat waves, floods and winter storms to complete deliveries.
Honda’s 0 Electric Vehicle Prototypes — The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly (CleanTechnica) - Japanese automaker Honda reveals two electric prototypes featuring ASIMO software, steer-by-wire tech, and self-driving abilities, targeting 2026 North American production.
How RV Manufacturers Can Build All-Electric Travel Trailers For Cheap (CleanTechnica) - RV makers could slash costs by utilizing portable power stations and EV tow vehicle batteries rather than installing dedicated battery systems in travel trailers.
New E-Bike Guide for Beginners (CleanTechnica) - A new guide demystifies e-bikes for first-time buyers, highlighting how these increasingly popular vehicles now cost 40% less than five years ago.
November Global EV Sales — Automakers (CleanTechnica) - Chinese automaker BYD dominated global electric vehicle sales with 485,000 units in November, while Tesla experienced a 1% decline and Geely secured third place with 89,000 registrations.
November Global EV Sales — Models (CleanTechnica) - Global electric vehicle sales reached 1.84 million units last month, with China dominating 70% of purchases and Tesla's Model Y leading worldwide deliveries at 106,000 units.
Pentagon adds world’s largest EV battery maker to blacklist, posing problems for Tesla, Ford, and GM (Renewable Energy World) - Chinese battery giant CATL faces U.S. military blacklisting, threatening supply chains for Tesla, Ford and GM despite denying military connections.
Sony/Honda Afeela 1 Now Available For Pre-Order (CleanTechnica) - Sony and Honda's Afeela 1 electric vehicle hits California markets with pre-orders starting at $89,900, offering two models for 2026-2027 delivery.
The EV Surge: Powering Towards 2030's Grid Challenges (EnergyCentral) - Global electric vehicle sales could consume 1,500 terawatt-hours annually by 2030, reaching up to 50% of new car purchases and straining power grids worldwide.
The Search for a Somewhat Sustainable Aviation Fuel (Heatmap News) - Aviation giants pour resources into sustainable fuel development, as Twelve and Pathway Energy spearhead CO2-recycling and biomass conversion despite steep production costs.
Thomas Built Buses Unveils Second Generation Electric School Bus (CleanTechnica) - Thomas Built Buses' new Jouley electric school bus boasts an 800-volt Proterra battery system, Cummins' 14Xe eAxle, and seats 60 passengers.
Three Interesting Ways To Leverage Railways For Solar Power (CleanTechnica) - Railway infrastructure across Europe is being transformed into solar power networks through track-mounted panels, sound barriers and battery-equipped boxcars, boosting clean energy production by 35%.
U.S. Railroading: What Sector’s Future Power Suppliers Will Need to Know (Power Magazine) - U.S. freight rail operators weigh multiple electrification options that demand significant infrastructure spending but promise improved efficiency across America's 140,000-mile network.
Volvo Electric Car Sales Grew 54% in 2024 Globally (CleanTechnica) - Swedish automaker Volvo achieved record-breaking electric vehicle sales of 175,194 units globally in 2024, marking a 54% increase, while plugin hybrids rose 16% to 177,593 units.
Will EVs Leave You Out in the Cold? (Energy Central) - New data shows electric vehicles lose significant range in cold temperatures, though heat pump technology helps offset winter performance losses.
Dangerous Downwash Is The 15th Reason Why A Jetsons EVTOL Future Won’t Happen (CleanTechnica) - Testing shows eVTOL aircraft create hazardous 100-mph downwash during landing, raising serious safety concerns for urban air mobility plans.
The Cybertruck Is the Third-Best-Selling EV in America. It’s Also a Failure. (Heatmap News) - Tesla's Cybertruck secured third place in US electric vehicle sales with 17,000 units moved, despite its hefty $80,000 starting price.
The true costs of wildlife crossings (Environment America) - Despite costing millions to build, wildlife crossings save up to $443,000 annually per overpass by preventing collisions that kill 200 Americans, injure 26,000, and cause $10 billion in damage yearly.
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