Emissions-free power hits 40% of global electricity generation

Clean power is now at 40% of global energy generation! That's among the findings in a new report from energy experts Ember released today. Solar is coming on especially fast, doubling over the last 3 years.

But: heatwaves and the need for air conditioning are driving small growth in fossil fuels, too, to meet peak demand. 

Even here in the US, momentum is strong. Last month analysts at Wood Mac wrote (PDF), for example, that "Domestic [solar] module manufacturing capacity grew an unprecedented 190% year-over-year, from just 14.5 GW at the end

of 2023 to 42.1 GW at the end of 2024 and surpassed 50 GW in early 2025."

It's a dynamic environment. But right now we could use some good news, and the the momentum behind the energy transition qualifies as some real good news for people and planet.

If you're working in solar, I want to invite you to our just-posted Zoom call in May, where we'll share original research on the strategies and tactics being deployed by the fastest-growing startups in the startup market right now.

Today's Updates

Table of Contents

• Agriculture (10 stories) - Oxamide fertilizer from captured CO₂; Fraunhofer ISE solar panels; IITA/AfricaRice processing machines in Togo; Rwanda/Nigeria IITA research; Trade war agrifoodtech impacts; Nairobi Science Week; Kenya Kilimo Biashara Expo; Uganda NARITA 17 banana; Illinois pesticide notification bill.

  
  

• Carbon (10 stories) - Advance Market Commitments emerge in voluntary carbon market; power-sector CO2 emissions reach record high; Antarctic Circumpolar Current weakens; Climeworks' Hartmann leads carbon removal partnerships; coal power capacity cut by 70%; Bolivia plans carbon credit sale; Altitude purchases biochar-based carbon removal certificates from Puro Registry; record European temperatures and Arctic sea ice loss; Carbon Tracker finds zero oil and gas majors align with Paris Agreement; EU's Emissions Trading System achieves 50% emissions reduction.

  
  

• Circular (6 stories) - Vietnam zero waste progress; Wrangler "circular" jeans at Walmart; Marriott AI food waste reduction; North Sea plastic pellet spill; Universities' reusable containers; Foodiverse's delegated collector.

  
  

• Ecosystems (27 stories) - Puerto Rico ecotourism, biodiversity loss from wealthy nations, Texas conservation projects, coral reef decline, endangered species protection, Amazon gold mining, Xingu logging, New Zealand report, "cosmic shoreline" mapping, "2050" documentary, mangrove risks, Cox's Bazar erosion, Pinyon Jay threats, Eurasian pygmy owl in Spain, far eastern curlew habitat loss, skunk/snake/bat coexistence, cultural attitudes & biodiversity, red-cockaded woodpeckers, Surge Magazine's Tour De Earth Day '25, WilderCamp in Portugal, H-E-B tree-planting grants, Earth Month 2025 activities, human-nature connection, mitochondrial exchange, heat-humidity limits, UK waterway pharmaceuticals.

  
  

• Efficiency (5 stories) - Massachusetts pilot project offers solar panels, heat pumps, and batteries; Texas homeowners save with heat pumps; AHR Expo showcases HVAC efficiency; Krakow conference on urban heating; Urban heat islands impacted by 15-minute city designs.

  
  

• Finance (9 stories) - Nature tech investment surges; Southeast Asia green energy startups; 4°C warming GDP impact; China green bonds on LSE; Cresta decarbonization fund; "Brown" company engagement; Q1 2025 earnings call; EV charging refinancing; Trump tariffs impact.

  
  

• Grid (16 stories) - Project EnergyConnect, Energy Vault, SPML Infra, Schneider Electric, SolarBank Corp, MyGrid 10K, Ofgem, SWTCH Energy, Taltson Hydro, BC Hydro, Valley Link.

  
  

• Indigenous (3 stories) - Brazil Supreme Court halts Indigenous land mining law; GJEP founder authors chapter in "Contesting Colonial Capitalism"; Buddhist traditions protect Nepal's snow leopards.

  
  

• Industry (18 stories) - James Stanford, H&M, UK HAR2, Zero Industrial, LONGi, Canadian Solar, Qingdian, EcoFlow, Schneider Electric, One Click LCA, ANYbotics, Keto Software, Maxeon, IMPACT Act, TOPCon, Green Hydrogen, Spain.

  
  

• Policy (54 stories) - Trump EPA exemptions, activist rallies, policy uncertainty in Australia, Canadian LNG subsidies, chemical industry seeks EPA exemption, National Weather Service warnings, Third Act cycling fundraiser, Colombia's green transition, ARC network influence, human rights law in courts, Oregon's electric leaf blower rebate, PFAS regulation, Queensland's fossil fuel roadmap, Texas SB 819, climate tech tariffs, Adaptation Fund Board meeting, Constitution pipeline, EPA science, SERTP delays, UNITE-EJ program, US Voluntary National Review, USDA DEI language, EUDR compliance software, Trump tariffs, UN disaster risk reduction, Maryland polluter-pay study, Maryland climate policy wins, Maryland Next Generation Energy Act, Oregon SB1187, NSW election, Queensland emissions target review, Mongolia air pollution, USDA logging order, science advocacy, Southern California air quality rules, Trump tariffs, New York emissions reporting, Trump tariffs, UK flood risk maps, Arkansas wind regulations, Belém COP30 preparations, Cory Booker's Senate speech, Insight Engine™ AI, Tampa protests, Glacier wildfire protection plan, RFK Jr. vaccine data, South Korea's President Yoon Seok-yul, Energy Department cuts, EUDR authorities, hydrogen hub funding, science influence, DEI strategies, California EV mandate, Deutsche Bank greenwashing, EU sustainability reporting delays.

  
  

• Renewables (14 stories) - Global report critiques Coalition's gas/nuclear focus; solar power boom drives 40% of global electricity; Australia's Labor Party pledges AUD 2.3B in battery subsidies; Energy Vault secures $28M for Calistoga green hydrogen/BESS microgrid; Germany's solar PV reaches 104 GW; South Dakota leads US in renewables; Gonvarri Solar Steel's TracSmarT+1P dual-row solar tracker; India increases solar PV manufacturing by 37 GW; Green Cat Hydrogen shortlisted in UK's HAR2.

  
  

• Transport (16 stories) - Microliner electric aviation; CATL/Sinopec battery swaps; Trump's EV tariffs; UN shipping emissions; Oregon opposes HB3119; Ford Ranger PHEV; Brussels biofuels; Australia's EV supply chain; Germany's EV market; Tesla protests; Faraday Future 'Faraday X'; IONNA "Rechargery"; Labour's hybrid sales.

Agriculture

Oxamide fertilizer from captured CO₂; Fraunhofer ISE solar panels; IITA/AfricaRice processing machines in Togo; Rwanda/Nigeria IITA research; Trade war agrifoodtech impacts; Nairobi Science Week; Kenya Kilimo Biashara Expo; Uganda NARITA 17 banana; Illinois pesticide notification bill.

• Green Oxamide vs Green Ammonia: The Chemistry Behind a Smarter Fertilizer (CleanTechnica) - A new Chinese facility will produce oxamide fertilizer using captured CO₂, green hydrogen, and green ammonia, offering a slow-release nitrogen option that reduces nitrous oxide emissions compared to traditional fertilizers.

• Fraunhofer ISE Unveils Lightweight Solar For Farmlands (Taiyangnews) - Fraunhofer ISE develops ultra-lightweight solar panels (<5kg/m²) for agricultural weather protection systems, demonstrating 420kW/hectare potential in German cherry orchard pilot.

• IITA and AfricaRice advance agricultural transformation in Togo (CGIAR) - IITA and AfricaRice delivered 29 locally-fabricated processing machines to Togo's Ministry of Agriculture to boost rice and cassava processing efficiency and food security.

• Strengthening policy engagement to boost agricultural innovation in Togo (CGIAR) - IITA and partners are developing strategic policy to scale up Togo's Zero Hunger Project, including seed certification protocols for cassava, yam, and sweet potato, and capacity development for farmers.

• Rwanda’s Envoy to Nigeria engages IITA on strategic agricultural collaboration (CGIAR) - Rwanda's High Commissioner visits IITA headquarters to explore agricultural research partnerships and food security collaboration between Rwanda and Nigeria.

• Agrifoodtech VC: Trade war will ‘make food security an urgent priority’ (AgFunderNews) - Agrifoodtech investors warn that ongoing trade wars will heighten food security concerns, potentially benefiting startups that can reform the global supply chain.

• Science Week Opens: A Bold Step Forward in Science Collaboration for Food Security (CGIAR) - Global agricultural science leaders gather in Nairobi for Science Week to advance food security through research partnerships and innovation scaling.

• Kilimo Biashara expo 2025: Empowering youth in agribusiness (CGIAR) - The Kilimo Biashara Expo in Kenya featured a "Promoting youth in agriculture" section, showcasing young agripreneurs' innovations and marking a milestone in agricultural development.

• IITA and NARO release NARITA 17: A Matooke banana variety, in Uganda (CGIAR) - Uganda releases NARITA 17, a disease-resistant high-yield Matooke banana variety developed by NARO and IITA to combat declining banana production.

• Protect Illinois Children and Ecosystems from Pesticide Exposure (Prairie Rivers Network) - Illinois bill HB1596 requires advance notification to schools and parks before large-scale pesticide applications to protect children and ecosystems from chemical exposure.

Carbon

Advance Market Commitments emerge in voluntary carbon market; power-sector CO2 emissions reach record high; Antarctic Circumpolar Current weakens; Climeworks' Hartmann leads carbon removal partnerships; coal power capacity cut by 70%; Bolivia plans carbon credit sale; Altitude purchases biochar-based carbon removal certificates from Puro Registry; record European temperatures and Arctic sea ice loss; Carbon Tracker finds zero oil and gas majors align with Paris Agreement; EU's Emissions Trading System achieves 50% emissions reduction.

• Buyer Coalitions and the Carbon Market: Demand-Side Innovation (Tradewater) - Buyer coalitions, using Advance Market Commitments, are emerging in the voluntary carbon market to aggregate demand for high-integrity carbon credits and address oversupply issues.

• Power-sector CO2 hits ‘all-time high’ in 2024 despite record growth for clean energy (Carbon Brief) - Global power-sector CO2 emissions reached a record high in 2024, despite record growth in solar and wind power, due to increased electricity demand and reliance on fossil fuels.

• Melting Antarctic ice could weaken world’s strongest ocean current, study warns (Mongabay) - Antarctic Circumpolar Current could weaken 20% by 2050 due to ice melt, threatening global ocean circulation and climate regulation.

• Member Spotlight: Marco Hartmann (9Zero) - Climeworks' Marco Hartmann leads carbon removal partnerships, leveraging direct air capture technology and diverse removal methods to help companies achieve climate goals.

• Analysis: Nearly 60 countries have ‘dramatically’ cut plans to build coal plants since 2015 (Carbon Brief) - Nearly 60 countries have cut planned coal power capacity by 70% since 2015, with China and India now accounting for 92% of new proposals.

• Is Bolivia’s $1.2 Billion Deal to Protect Its Forests a Climate Boon—or a False Solution? (Inside Climate News) - Bolivia plans $1.2 billion carbon credit sale backed by national forest protection, raising concerns over market integrity and emissions verification.

• Altitude Secures +25,000 Tons Of CDRs From West African Suppliers (CleanTechnica) - Carbon removal firm Altitude commits to purchasing 25,000 tons of biochar-based carbon removal certificates from West African suppliers through Puro Registry.

• March 2025 Was Europe’s Hottest on Record, Second-Hottest Globally, Says EU Monitor (Earth.org) - March 2025 sets new European temperature record at 6.03°C while Arctic sea ice hits lowest extent in 47 years of satellite monitoring.

• Study: Fresh data highlights 'widening gulf' between oil and gas companies and climate science (BusinessGreen) - New Carbon Tracker report reveals zero oil and gas majors align with Paris Agreement temperature goals, with many companies backsliding on climate commitments.

• EU’s carbon pricing scheme lowers emissions to 50% of 2005 levels (Trellis) - EU's Emissions Trading System achieves 50% emissions reduction from 2005 levels, keeping bloc on track for 2030 climate targets despite political shifts.

Circular

Vietnam zero waste progress; Wrangler "circular" jeans at Walmart; Marriott AI food waste reduction; North Sea plastic pellet spill; Universities' reusable containers; Foodiverse's delegated collector.

• Vietnam hosts regional zero waste workshop: Lessons and hope for the future (Pacific Environment) - A Vietnam zero waste workshop highlighted the country's progress in adopting zero waste practices across various sectors, while addressing challenges like single-use plastics and imported waste.

• How Wrangler created affordable ‘circular’ jeans for Walmart (Trellis) - Wrangler's affordable "circular" jeans for Walmart, made with 26% recycled cotton from used clothes and factory discards, demonstrate the feasibility of mass-market circular fashion.

• Marriott UK, Ireland & Nordics cuts food waste by 50% across 53 hotels (Winnow) - Marriott achieves 50% food waste reduction across 53 hotels in UK, Ireland & Nordics through AI tracking and menu optimization.

• The Environmental Tragedy of Plastic Pellets (Friends of the Earth) - Container ship collision in North Sea leads to devastating spill of millions of plastic pellets, threatening marine wildlife and highlighting global challenges of pellet transport and cleanup.

• Plastic-Free Reuse is No Longer Optional on Campus (CleanTechnica) - Universities nationwide shift to plastic-free reusable container programs after Northern Arizona University demonstrates 140,000 successful container checkouts with tech-enabled system.

• Delegated collector (YouTube) - Foodiverse's delegated collector feature enables third-party collectors to accept, collect, and deliver food donations to community groups, expanding their reach.

Ecosystems

Puerto Rico ecotourism, biodiversity loss from wealthy nations, Texas conservation projects, coral reef decline, endangered species protection, Amazon gold mining, Xingu logging, New Zealand report, "cosmic shoreline" mapping, "2050" documentary, mangrove risks, Cox's Bazar erosion, Pinyon Jay threats, Eurasian pygmy owl in Spain, far eastern curlew habitat loss, skunk/snake/bat coexistence, cultural attitudes & biodiversity, red-cockaded woodpeckers, Surge Magazine's Tour De Earth Day '25, WilderCamp in Portugal, H-E-B tree-planting grants, Earth Month 2025 activities, human-nature connection, mitochondrial exchange, heat-humidity limits, UK waterway pharmaceuticals.

• Una comunidad puertorriqueña decide preservar su bosque en vez de construir hoteles. Ahora, gana dinero gracias al ecoturismo (Yale Climate Connections) - A Puerto Rican community chose to protect its forest for ecotourism, creating jobs and promoting sustainability, instead of building hotels.

• Countries must consider their global footprint when using natural resources (Nature) - A study reveals that wealthy nations cause greater biodiversity loss outside their borders due to resource consumption than within.

• Texan by Nature Announces 2025 Conservation Wranglers (Texan by Nature) - Conservation non-profit selects five Texas-led environmental projects for 2025 accelerator program, providing strategic support and resources to advance science-based conservation initiatives.

• Reality check: coral restoration won’t save the world’s reefs (TheConversation) - Coral restoration efforts are too expensive and small-scale to offset global coral reef losses from climate change, highlighting the urgent need for emissions reductions.

• Center for Biological Diversity (Center for Biological Diversity) - Environmental organization uses science, legal advocacy, and media to protect endangered species and their habitats while promoting biodiversity conservation worldwide.

• Illegal gold mining has destroyed over 4,000 hectares of Amazon rainforest in just four Indigenous territories in the past two years, warns Greenpeace (Greenpeace) - Illegal gold mining destroyed over 4,000 hectares of Amazon rainforest in four Indigenous territories in two years, with Swiss gold imports exceeding Brazil's reported exports.

• Exploração ilegal de madeira dispara e ameaça florestas e comunidades na Bacia do Xingu (Instituto Socioambiental) - Illegal logging has surged in the Xingu Basin, threatening forests and communities, with over 620 km of clandestine roads opened in 2024 to extract valuable timber, facilitating further environmental crimes.

• The latest update on NZ’s state of the environment is sobering – but there are glimmers of progress (The Conversation) - New Zealand's latest environmental report reveals sobering trends like soil erosion and biodiversity loss, but also highlights progress in urban air quality and waste reduction.

• Searching for Alien Life Along the Cosmic Shoreline (Nautilus) - Scientists map "cosmic shoreline" dividing planets with and without atmospheres to guide search for potentially habitable worlds.

• A Journey to the End of the World (Revolve) - The documentary "2050" vividly portrays the stark reality of climate change in Greenland and Antarctica through scientific insights and personal stories, highlighting alarming ice loss and potential sea-level rise.

• Coastal guardians at risk: Cyclones and rising seas threaten mangroves (ETH Zurich) - Half of global mangrove ecosystems face severe risk from climate-driven cyclones and sea level rise by 2100, threatening vital coastal protection and carbon storage services.

• Bangladesh witnesses coastal erosion, salinization as tourism tramples a flowering vine (Mongabay) - Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar beach loses vital morning glory vines to unchecked tourism, leading to coastal erosion and ecosystem damage.

• Many native New Zealand species face threat of extinction, report finds (The Guardian) - New Zealand government report reveals 76-94% of native species face extinction threat while showing some air quality improvements.

• PINYON JAY EXTINCTION PROJECTS RAGE ON (The Wildlife News) - Federal agencies continue massive deforestation projects threatening Pinyon Jay populations with extinction while using forest destruction as mitigation for development projects.

• Eurasian pygmy owl confirmed in Spain for the first time (Mongabay) - The Eurasian pygmy owl, Europe's smallest bird of prey, has been confirmed in Spain for the first time, expanding its range westward.

• Endangered far eastern curlews, and the scientist standing up for them – video (The Guardian) - A defence housing project and industrial development in Darwin threaten the habitat of the critically endangered far eastern curlew, which relies on Australian shorelines for its migration.

• Stinky Skunks, Scary Sharks, Slithery Snakes (Bluedot Living) - An article encourages readers to respect and coexist with often-disliked animals like skunks, snakes, and bats, highlighting their ecological roles and benefits.

• EEA briefing ‘Strengthening society’s engagement with nature’ (EEA) - Cultural attitudes significantly shape human interaction with nature, influencing efforts to halt biodiversity loss, as highlighted in a new briefing supporting the EU's biodiversity strategy.

• The Endangered Species Next Door (The Revelator) - Red-cockaded woodpeckers face uncertain future as downlisting and development pressure their longleaf pine savanna habitat in the growing Southeast.

• Surge Issue 10 Out Now! (Charleston Climate Coalition) - Surge Magazine's Issue 10 highlights regeneration with art, storytelling, poetry, and announces the Tour De Earth Day '25 ecotour in Charleston.

• Protected: WilderCamp: unique new retreat showcases Greater Côa Valley rewilding (Rewilding Europe) - WilderCamp, a new retreat in Portugal's Greater Côa Valley, highlights the area's rewilding efforts and nature-based tourism potential.

• H-E-B offering grants to nonprofits to help plant trees across Texas (Texan By Nature) - H-E-B is offering $5,000 grants to Texas nonprofits for tree-planting projects in public areas to enhance greenspace and promote environmental stewardship.

• Your 2025 Earth Month List (Climate Generation) - Environmental educators and activists share diverse Earth Month 2025 activities including gardening, activism, book recommendations, and nature appreciation traditions.

• When sadness strikes I remember I’m not alone in loving the wild boundless beauty of the living world | Georgina Woods (The Guardian) - Environmental activist reflects on humanity's deep connection to nature while highlighting widespread public support for conservation despite political disconnect.

• Cells are swapping their mitochondria. What does this mean for our health? (Nature) - Scientists discover cells actively exchange mitochondria between each other, potentially impacting tissue repair, immune response, and disease treatment.

• The world is heating up. How much can our bodies handle? (Grist) - New research shows human bodies can only withstand much lower heat-humidity combinations than previously thought, with dangerous thresholds starting at 26-31°C wet bulb temperature.

• Streams of medicines: what’s hiding in the UK’s waterways? – podcast (The Guardian) - UK waterways, even in protected areas, are contaminated with pharmaceuticals, potentially contributing to antimicrobial resistance, according to new research.

Efficiency

Massachusetts pilot project offers solar panels, heat pumps, and batteries; Texas homeowners save with heat pumps; AHR Expo showcases HVAC efficiency; Krakow conference on urban heating; Urban heat islands impacted by 15-minute city designs.

• Modeling home electrification (Canary Media) - A Massachusetts pilot project offers solar panels, heat pumps, and batteries to low-income homes, potentially serving as a national electrification model.

• Texans can save hundreds of dollars each year by switching to heat pumps (Yale Climate Connections) - A study found that Texas homeowners could save over $300 annually by switching from central AC and electric resistance heating to more efficient electric heat pumps.

• Heat Pumps Take Center Stage at the 2025 AHR Expo (Building Decarb) - The 2025 AHR Expo showcased the HVAC industry's shift towards energy-efficient heat pumps, climate-friendly refrigerants, and thermal energy networks, highlighting the future of electric building heating.

• Decarb Cities 2025 (Revolve Media) - International conference in Krakow to address urban heating decarbonization strategies and renewable energy transitions in cities.

• Urban Heat Islands - "Some like it hot." (Energy Central) - Urban heat islands in cities show significantly higher temperatures than surrounding areas, with 15-minute city designs potentially worsening the effect through increased population density.

Finance

Nature tech investment surges; Southeast Asia green energy startups; 4°C warming GDP impact; China green bonds on LSE; Cresta decarbonization fund; "Brown" company engagement; Q1 2025 earnings call; EV charging refinancing; Trump tariffs impact.

• Five Reasons Why You Should Keep Listening Out for Nature Tech – And Invest in It Today (Nature4Climate) - Nature tech, blending technology and nature-based solutions, attracts increasing investment as it addresses climate challenges and reshapes financial systems.

• Leveraging entrepreneurship to foster innovation (Global Energy Alliance) - Southeast Asian philanthropic startups drive green energy innovation through impact investing and cross-sector partnerships, with region hosting 60 unicorns and leading FDI among emerging economies.

• Reversing the Sign of a 40% GDP Loss (Energy Central) - New climate study warns 4°C temperature rise could slash global GDP by 40% by 2100, significantly higher than previous 11% estimate.

• China Issues its First Sovereign Green Bonds (ESG Today) - China launches first sovereign green bonds worth $824M on London Stock Exchange to fund environmental initiatives including climate and biodiversity projects.

• 175. Capitalizing on the Infrastructure giants’ Blind Spots: How can a specialised PE fund thrive under the new US Administration? - Redefining Energy podcast (Energy Central) - Cresta, a $2 billion specialist fund, leverages industrial expertise to capitalize on overlooked decarbonization opportunities in areas like waste gas and sustainable aviation fuel.

• For effective green investing, go brown (Trellis) - Engaging with "brown" companies and actively influencing their practices may be more effective for green investing than simply excluding them from portfolios.

• Ameresco to Announce First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on May 5, 2025 (Ameresco) - Leading energy solutions provider to release Q1 2025 financial results and host earnings conference call on May 5, 2025.

• New success for the Demeter Entrepreneurs Club (Demeter) - Investment firm hosts Entrepreneurs Club event showcasing EV charging refinancing and portfolio companies ahead of merger with Cerea.

• Manic Monday: Energy stocks whipsaw in response to Trump tariffs, internet rumors (RenewableEnergyWorld) - Trump tariffs trigger energy stock volatility, with First Solar gaining while other renewable companies face steep losses amid market uncertainty.

Grid

Project EnergyConnect, Energy Vault, SPML Infra, Schneider Electric, SolarBank Corp, MyGrid 10K, Ofgem, SWTCH Energy, Taltson Hydro, BC Hydro, Valley Link.

• New transmission line linking most renewable state with biggest coal state about to start operations (RenewEconomy) - A new transmission line, Project EnergyConnect, will link South Australia, a renewable energy leader, with New South Wales, Australia's most coal-dependent state, to facilitate renewable energy sharing.

• Energy Vault And SPML Infra Ink 10-Year, 30+ GWh License And Royalty Agreement To Expand B-Vault Battery Storage In Indian Market (Energy Vault) - Energy Vault and SPML Infra sign a 10-year deal to deploy 30+ GWh of B-VAULT battery storage in India, enhancing renewable energy integration.

• Empowering change: The role of digital transformation in modern energy systems (Renewable Energy World) - Schneider Electric highlights distributed energy resources, flexibility, digitalization, and cybersecurity as key trends shaping the power industry's future.

• SolarBank Corp. Understands The Importance of Energy Storage (CleanTechnica) - SolarBank Corp expands into Canadian battery storage with a $25.8 million project in Ontario, backed by RBC, and aims to enhance renewable energy integration and grid resilience.

• SPML Infra ties up with Energy Vault to manufacture and deploy grid-scale battery storage systems in India (Energy Vault) - SPML Infra partners with Energy Vault to manufacture and deploy grid-scale battery storage systems in India, supporting renewable energy integration.

• New Storage Product For US Home Consumers From Nature’s Generator (Nature's Generator) - California company launches MyGrid 10K home battery system with 10.49kWh capacity, compatible with both solar and wind power, priced from $5,999.

• Labor's home batteries policy could help people who will never take it up. Here's how | Adam Morton (The Guardian) - Labor's $2.3bn household battery subsidy plan aims to cut power costs and emissions through renewable energy scheme that helped make solar panels affordable.

• Frontier Forum: Future-proofing data center power infrastructure (Latitude Media) - Data centers explore microgrids as immediate power solution while grid upgrades lag, with potential cost reductions of 60-80% compared to utility rates.

• What can the Quakers teach us about building a digital electric grid? (Latitude Media) - Former AES VP Alexina Jackson advocates for AI-driven digital grid transformation, drawing on Quaker principles of questioning authority and data-driven decision making.

• 'Super batteries': Ofgem unveils 'cap and floor' investment scheme for Long Duration Electricity Storage (BusinessGreen) - UK energy regulator Ofgem launches 'cap and floor' investment scheme to scale up long-duration energy storage projects crucial for clean power system by 2030.

• What African electrification requires (Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet) - Africa requires significant investment in transmission infrastructure and private-sector participation to achieve universal access to reliable and affordable electricity.

• SWTCH Energy’s Cortex launch: Advancing EV charging performance & reliability (RenewableEnergyWorld) - SWTCH Energy launches Cortex platform, using cloud-based intelligence and on-site computing to optimize EV charging, reduce costs, and automate processes for property owners.

• Texas and Ireland examine measures to respond to data centres growth (GridBeyond) - Texas and Ireland implement new regulations for data centers' grid connections, requiring on-site power generation and fair transmission charges amid surging electricity demand.

• Taltson Hydro plant returns to service after nearly two years of overhaul (Renewable Energy World) - Northwest Territories' Taltson Hydro plant resumes operations after $97.8M overhaul including turbine, generator replacements and upgrades.

• A new milestone: BC Hydro’s 1,100-MW Site C brings fourth generator online (Renewable Energy World) - BC Hydro's Site C hydroelectric project achieves milestone as fourth 180MW generator comes online, reaching two-thirds of planned 1,100MW capacity.

• FERC urged to reject proposed ROE, incentives for $3B Valley Link transmission project (Utility Dive) - Federal regulators urged to reject $3B Valley Link transmission project's proposed returns and incentives amid concerns over ratepayer risk transfer.

Indigenous

Brazil Supreme Court halts Indigenous land mining law; GJEP founder authors chapter in "Contesting Colonial Capitalism"; Buddhist traditions protect Nepal's snow leopards.

• Decisão sensata na comissão de conciliação do STF (Instituto Socioambiental) - Brazil's Supreme Court justice Gilmar Mendes removed Indigenous land mining from legislative suggestions, aiming to replace a controversial "time frame" law deemed unconstitutional.

• GJEP featured in “Contesting Colonial Capitalism in the Americas, Africa and Asia.” (Global Justice Ecology Project) - GJEP's founder Anne Petermann authored a chapter in "Contesting Colonial Capitalism," featuring photography by Orin Langelle, highlighting Indigenous, ecological, and anticapitalist advocacy.

• How cultural and religious beliefs combine for snow leopard conservation (commentary) (Mongabay) - Buddhist beliefs and cultural traditions protect snow leopards from retaliatory killings despite livestock losses in Nepal's Mustang region.

Industry

James Stanford, H&M, UK HAR2, Zero Industrial, LONGi, Canadian Solar, Qingdian, EcoFlow, Schneider Electric, One Click LCA, ANYbotics, Keto Software, Maxeon, IMPACT Act, TOPCon, Green Hydrogen, Spain.

• The Art of the Atomic (Nautilus) - Artist James Stanford's nuclear testing-inspired artwork captures atomic explosions' impact on Nevada landscape through mandala-like patterns and desert imagery.

• 3 ways H&M is improving its footprint — and the hurdles that remain (Trellis) - H&M's 2024 sustainability report reveals progress in reducing supplier emissions and scaling circular business, but challenges remain in achieving ambitious climate targets and textile recycling.

• Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2): UK | Shortlisted projects (Energy Central) - The UK government has shortlisted 27 electrolytic hydrogen projects across England, Scotland, and Wales for the next stage of Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2).

• Zero Industrial Announces $10 Million Series A Investment To Accelerate Development Of Thermal Energy Storage (Evok Innovations) - Zero Industrial secures $10M Series A funding to develop and finance thermal energy storage systems for industrial heat decarbonization.

• Transparent Backsheets For TOPCon (TaiyangNews) - Manufacturers develop innovative transparent backsheets with improved moisture resistance and light-trapping capabilities for bifacial TOPCon solar modules, achieving 3% higher energy yields.

• China Solar PV News Snippets: ConfirmWare At TaiyangNews Conference In New Delhi & More (TaiyangNews) - Multiple Chinese solar companies announce expansions and partnerships, including LONGi's green alliance, Canadian Solar's 5.2GW capacity addition, and Qingdian's new 3GW module plant.

• EcoFlow’s First-Ever CSR-Integrated Members’ Festival: A New Paradigm to Bolster Global Disaster Response (CleanTechnica) - EcoFlow launches Members' Festival pledging 1% of sales to disaster response fund, offering up to 65% off portable power stations while expanding global emergency power relief efforts.

• Green Hydrogen For Energy Was A Story We Told Ourselves (CleanTechnica) - Green hydrogen's promise as broad energy solution collapses as major firms and governments quietly withdraw support, limiting its future to industrial applications.

• UK Hydrogen Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2) shortlisted projects (Energy Central) - UK government announces shortlisted hydrogen projects for second Hydrogen Allocation Round funding scheme.

• Spain confirms €1.22bn for 2.3GW of green hydrogen valley projects (Energy Central) - Spain allocates €1.22bn to develop 2.3GW of green hydrogen valley projects including sustainable aviation fuel production and industrial supply chains.

• Industrial Heat Decarbonization Startup Zero Industrial Raises $10 Million (ESG Today) - Zero Industrial raises $10M Series A funding to develop thermal energy storage projects replacing fossil fuels with electricity for industrial heat decarbonization.

• Schneider Electric Provides Environmental Data for 50,000 Products to Help Decarbonize Construction Projects (ESG Today) - Schneider Electric partners with One Click LCA to provide environmental data for 50,000 electrical products, enabling sustainable design decisions in construction projects.

• Why a low-emissions cement bill easily passed the House — and looks viable in the Senate, too (Trellis) - Bipartisan IMPACT Act for low-emissions cement passes House 350-73, leveraging $15B in existing infrastructure funds while giving states implementation choice.

• Want to know your “Return on Innovation”? (Emerald.vc) - Strategic Portfolio Management (SPM) helps industrial firms navigate decarbonization, sustainability, and competition by linking projects to strategic goals, with Keto Software offering a flexible digital solution.

• “ANYbotics has 400 employees, and 200 of them are human.” (verve.vc) - Swiss robotics firm ANYbotics, with 400 employees (200 human), aims to scale its autonomous four-legged robots for industrial inspections globally, offering data-driven solutions.

• Trump’s Tariffs Just Killed the Last Hope of a U.S. Mining Boom (Heatmap News) - Trump's new tariffs and falling metal prices may halt the US mining boom despite previous incentives for domestic sourcing.

• Growing Preference For Glass Backsheets In N-Type Technology (TaiyangNews) - Glass-backsheet configurations gain preference over glass-glass in n-type solar panels due to superior hail resistance, thermal performance, and easier handling despite industry shift to TOPCon technology.

• Maxeon Establishing Alternative Manufacturing & Supply Chain (TaiyangNews) - Solar manufacturer Maxeon restructures supply chain and plans US-based production in response to tariffs and trade barriers, while considering legal action against CBP's module detention decision.

Policy

Trump EPA exemptions, activist rallies, policy uncertainty in Australia, Canadian LNG subsidies, chemical industry seeks EPA exemption, National Weather Service warnings, Third Act cycling fundraiser, Colombia's green transition, ARC network influence, human rights law in courts, Oregon's electric leaf blower rebate, PFAS regulation, Queensland's fossil fuel roadmap, Texas SB 819, climate tech tariffs, Adaptation Fund Board meeting, Constitution pipeline, EPA science, SERTP delays, UNITE-EJ program, US Voluntary National Review, USDA DEI language, EUDR compliance software, Trump tariffs, UN disaster risk reduction, Maryland polluter-pay study, Maryland climate policy wins, Maryland Next Generation Energy Act, Oregon SB1187, NSW election, Queensland emissions target review, Mongolia air pollution, USDA logging order, science advocacy, Southern California air quality rules, Trump tariffs, New York emissions reporting, Trump tariffs, UK flood risk maps, Arkansas wind regulations, Belém COP30 preparations, Cory Booker's Senate speech, Insight Engine™ AI, Tampa protests, Glacier wildfire protection plan, RFK Jr. vaccine data, South Korea's President Yoon Seok-yul, Energy Department cuts, EUDR authorities, hydrogen hub funding, science influence, DEI strategies, California EV mandate, Deutsche Bank greenwashing, EU sustainability reporting delays.

• New Analysis Shows Extensive Number of Facilities Across the U.S. That Could Get a Trump EPA Pollution Pass (EDF) - A new analysis reveals that over 500 US facilities, including petrochemical plants and coal-fired power plants, were invited by the Trump EPA to seek exemptions from hazardous air pollution limits.

• Join us in DC this week to make polluters pay taxes (198methods.org) - Activists are rallying in Washington D.C. to urge Congress to make polluters pay taxes and resist budget cuts favoring billionaires and corporations.

• Like any good opera company, the wind and solar industry is looking for a half decent tenor (RenewEconomy) - Australia's wind and solar industry needs longer-term contracts (tenor) to secure financing for projects with 40-year lifespans, but policy uncertainty hinders long-term commitments from utilities and customers.

• Conservative Pledge to issue permits for already permitted LNG terminal points to more fossil fuel subsidies (Stand.earth) - Canadian Conservatives' pledge to issue permits for an already-approved LNG terminal suggests further fossil fuel subsidies, despite climate targets and existing government support.

• As Chemical Industry Seeks Exemption From Pollution Limits, Residents See Assault on Their Lives (Inside Climate News) - Chemical industry seeks a two-year exemption from new EPA air pollution rules, raising concerns for communities near petrochemical plants already facing high levels of toxic chemicals.

• National Weather Service issues lifesaving tornado and flood warnings amid massive cuts (Yale Climate Connections) - Despite budget cuts, the National Weather Service issued vital tornado and flood warnings as severe weather killed at least 21 in the US Midwest.

• Pedaling for the Planet: Donna’s Cross-Country Climate Ride (Third Act) - Donna Minter, a 67-year-old Third Actor, is cycling across America to raise $500,000 for Third Act and other climate organizations.

• Colombia’s green transition should be inclusive: Interview with Susana Muhamad, former environment minister (Mongabay) - Former environment minister Susana Muhamad calls for economic diversification, coca legalization, and stricter environmental licensing to advance Colombia's green transition.

• Jordan Peterson’s International Network Has Its Eye on Pierre Poilievre (DeSmog) - Jordan Peterson's ARC network, promoting themes of resource development and climate skepticism, appears to be influencing Canadian Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's policies.

• ‘All other avenues have been exhausted’: Is legal action the only way to save the planet? (The Guardian) - Lawyer Monica Feria-Tinta champions using human rights law and rights of nature arguments in international courts to fight climate change and environmental destruction, as traditional approaches have proven insufficient.

• Bill to establish rebate program for electric leaf blowers clears first major legislative hurdle (Environment America) - Oregon's House Committee passed House Bill 2067, establishing a rebate program for electric leaf blowers to reduce air and noise pollution from gas-powered equipment.

• What can be done to tackle 'forever chemicals?' (DW) - PFAS "forever chemicals," found in many products, accumulate in the body and are linked to health problems, prompting calls for bans and better regulation.

• Coalkeeper 3.0: Queensland’s fossil fuel roadmap puts renewables at risk (RenewEconomy) - Queensland's fossil fuel roadmap extends coal power, undermining renewable energy targets and investments despite escalating climate and cost-of-living crises.

• “Fiscal vandalism:” Queensland doubles down on coal and gas after transmission, hydro cost blowouts (RenewEconomy) - Queensland's government plans to extend coal plant operations and invest in new gas power, citing cost blowouts in transmission and hydro projects, while potentially repealing renewable energy targets.

• Who is Stewards of Texas, the group pushing anti-renewable energy bill SB 819? (Energy and Policy Institute) - Stewards of Texas, a nonprofit with ties to lobbyists and a billionaire, is pushing Texas' SB 819, which would restrict renewable energy development.

• 🌎 Tariffs, trade wars, and climate tech #240 (CTVC) - Tariffs imposed by the US and retaliatory measures from other countries threaten to disrupt climate tech supply chains, raising costs and potentially slowing down the deployment of clean energy technologies.

• 44th Adaptation Fund Board Meeting (Adaptation Fund) - The 44th Adaptation Fund Board meeting will take place on April 10-11, 2025, in Bonn, Germany, to review adaptation projects and programmes.

• The Constitution pipeline will not solve wintertime energy price hikes (Acadia Center) - The Constitution pipeline, previously blocked due to environmental concerns, would not alleviate winter energy price increases, as existing customers subsidize new gas connections.

• EPA must use the best available science − by law − but what does that mean? (TheConversation) - The EPA is legally obligated to use the "best available science" in its decisions, which must be reliable, unbiased, objective, and based on current knowledge, but this is threatened by political interference.

• Ten months after it was issued, the latest federal rule on transmission is mostly theoretical (CleanEnergy.org) - The Southeastern Regional Transmission Planning organization (SERTP) has yet to plan a regional transmission line despite a decade in operation and continues to delay action on FERC's Order 1920.

• The UNITE-EJ program was sunsetted after not receiving funds by inauguration day. (Climate Justice Alliance) - The UNITE-EJ program, focused on environmental justice, was discontinued after its funding was cut following inauguration day.

• The US is against the world on sustainable development (Nature) - The US has not submitted a Voluntary National Review of its Sustainable Development Goal programs, unlike 190 other UN member states since 2015.

• The USDA is unfreezing clean energy money — but ‘inviting’ grant recipients to remove DEI and climate language (RenewableEnergyWorld) - The USDA is releasing frozen clean energy funds but "inviting" recipients to remove DEI and climate-focused language from their proposals, raising concerns about potential discrimination.

• LiveEO | Choosing the Right EUDR Software: A Comprehensive Guide (LiveEO) - This guide outlines essential features for EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) compliance software, emphasizing risk assessment, data management, and automated reporting to avoid penalties and market bans.

• The Stock Market Chaos from Trump’s Tariffs Continues (Heatmap) - Trump's tariffs caused global markets to plummet, threatening US battery makers and LNG exports, while severe storms and potential DOE cuts add to economic and climate woes.

• We must get disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction right — here are 5 ways to deliver results (UNDRR) - UN disaster risk reduction chief outlines five key strategies to better protect persons with disabilities in disaster planning and response.

• Maryland General Assembly Passes First Step to ‘Make Polluters Pay’ (CCAN Action Fund) - Maryland passes bill requiring first-ever state study to assess total climate change costs from fossil fuel companies, setting stage for future polluter-pay legislation.

• Annapolis wrap up: Climate victories in a tough legislative year (CCAN Action Fund) - Maryland's 2024 legislative session ends with climate policy wins including polluter-pay study, solar siting rules, and battery storage mandates, while defeating attempts to weaken clean vehicle standards.

• MD General Assembly Passes Next Generation Energy Act: Minimizing Support for Gas Plants While Advancing Battery Storage, Data Center Reform, Pipeline Reform, Trash Incineration Reform, and More (CCAN Action Fund) - Maryland passes Next Generation Energy Act, prioritizing battery storage and clean energy while limiting gas plant support and reforming data centers, pipelines, and waste incineration.

• SOCAN Testimony Supporting SB1187 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate group urges passage of SB1187 bill requiring major polluters to pay for climate disaster costs and adaptation measures currently funded by taxpayers.

• “All aboard the Trump train!” Coalition swaps out extreme right candidate for pro-gas MAGA man (RenewEconomy) - Coalition replaces extreme-right candidate with pro-Trump, pro-gas industry figure Nathaniel Smith for NSW seat of Whitlam in upcoming election.

• LNP orders review of Queensland’s emissions reduction target of 75% by 2035 (The Guardian) - Queensland government orders review of state's 75% emissions reduction target while extending coal power station life, sparking environmental concerns.

• Steppes and the city: how smog has become part of Mongolians’ way of life – in pictures (The Guardian) - Mongolia's rapid urbanization and coal dependence creates severe air pollution crisis, forcing traditional nomadic herders into smog-filled cities.

• Emergency Forest Cutting Will Exacerbate Wildfires (The Wildlife News) - New USDA emergency logging order contradicts scientific evidence showing forest thinning increases wildfire severity and spread.

• ‘Now is not the time for despair’ — how scientists can take a stand against political interference (Nature) - Scientists urged to actively defend science against political interference through coalition-building and public advocacy rather than relying solely on legal challenges.

• SoCal regulators weigh weakened rules for emissions-free appliances (Canary Media) - Southern California air quality regulators consider diluted rules allowing gradual phase-out of gas appliances through 2036 rather than outright ban, despite health impacts of NOx emissions.

• Trump’s tariffs undermine his energy and manufacturing goals (Canary Media) - Trump's new high tariffs on imports threaten US clean energy manufacturing growth and could increase costs across solar, wind, and battery sectors while potentially triggering recession.

• New York Proposes Mandatory GHG Reporting for Large Emitting Sectors (ESG Today) - New York proposes mandatory greenhouse gas emissions reporting for large emitters and fuel distributors starting 2027, as part of state's planned cap-and-invest system.

• Trump’s tariff tantrum won’t stop the global energy transition (Climate Change News) - Trump's new tariffs will harm US economy but won't impact global renewable energy transition as US represents only 4% of China's cleantech exports.

• How to gauge flood risk before you buy or rent a seafront property (The Conversation) - A UK study reveals that while flood risk maps deter buyers from seafront properties, unclear communication and misinterpreted data can negatively impact coastal economies.

• Arkansas lawmakers advance wind regulations (Canary Media) - Arkansas advances wind regulations, directing state regulators to develop rules for wind development while allowing localities to add regulations.

• Brazil’s Belém races to make room for COP30 influx (Climate Change News) - Belém, Brazil, is rushing to prepare accommodation, including cruise ships and public schools, for the expected 50,000 delegates attending COP30, raising logistical and environmental concerns.

• Trump, interrupted: Cory Booker’s 25-hour Senate speech calls for collective action (TheConversation) - Cory Booker's 25-hour Senate speech, a non-filibuster, aimed to disrupt Trump's policies and promote collaborative democracy through interruption and collective action.

• Insight Engine™ Introduces Generative AI for Faster, Smarter Energy Regulatory Insights (Advanced Energy United Blog) - Insight Engine™ introduces generative AI to summarize energy regulatory documents, enhancing efficiency for users tracking state energy policies and rate cases.

• Thousands of protesters in Tampa part of nationwide Hands Off rally (CLEO Institute) - Over 5,000 protesters in Tampa joined nationwide 'Hands Off' rallies against Trump policies, government cuts, and support for Israel's actions in Gaza.

• WWU students help town of Glacier develop its first wildfire plan (WWU) - Pyrogeography students aided Glacier, Washington, in creating its first Community Wildfire Protection Plan to address increasing fire risks in the forest-surrounded mountain town.

• Top US vaccine regulator was pressured to provide conspiracy-confirming data (The Wall Street Journal) - Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s team pressured the top US vaccine regulator for anti-vaccine data and weakened stem-cell treatment rules, leading to his resignation.

• South Korea: 123 Days of Martial Law End with the President’s Removal—A Victory for the People (Via Campesina) - South Korea's Constitutional Court unanimously removed President Yoon Seok-yul after 123 days of martial law, following protests led by peasant organizations denouncing his suppression of democracy.

• The Energy Department identifies thousands of nonessential positions at risk of DOGE cuts (RenewableEnergyWorld) - The Energy Department has identified over 8,500 "nonessential" positions, including those in nuclear security, potentially at risk of cuts under a Trump-era executive order.

• LiveEO | EUDR Competent Authorities - Updated List (April 2025) (LiveEO) - The EU's updated list of competent authorities for enforcing the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) as of April 2025 includes new member states and contact details.

• Democrat senators: DOE plan to cancel hydrogen hub funding ‘illegal and harmful’ (Energy Central) - Democratic senators oppose Trump administration's plan to cancel $7bn hydrogen hub funding, calling it illegal and harmful.

• Science’s big problem is a loss of influence, not a loss of trust (Nature) - Research shows science faces declining influence rather than trust issues, with 75% global trust in scientists but increasing competition from non-credentialed sources for public attention.

• Guest Post: Can DEI 2.0 Include Everyone? (ESGToday) - Companies shift DEI strategies to focus on inclusion and financial performance amid political pressure, moving away from social impact objectives.

• Climate Policy Outlook: 4 stories to follow this week (Trellis) - Senate blocks GOP attempt to overturn California EV mandate while Deutsche Bank's DWS faces greenwashing fines and Trump's tariffs impact oil industry amid EU sustainability reporting delays.

Renewables

Global report critiques Coalition's gas/nuclear focus; solar power boom drives 40% of global electricity; Australia's Labor Party pledges AUD 2.3B in battery subsidies; Energy Vault secures $28M for Calistoga green hydrogen/BESS microgrid; Germany's solar PV reaches 104 GW; South Dakota leads US in renewables; Gonvarri Solar Steel's TracSmarT+1P dual-row solar tracker; India increases solar PV manufacturing by 37 GW; Green Cat Hydrogen shortlisted in UK's HAR2.

• Global report shows up Coalition gas and nuclear folly, underlines why Labor should do better (RenewEconomy) - A global report criticizes the Coalition's focus on gas and nuclear energy, highlighting the rise of renewables and slower wind power growth in Australia, urging Labor to address these trends for a sustainable energy transition.

• Clean energy powered 40% of global electricity in 2024, report finds (The Guardian) - A new report reveals that clean energy sources, driven by a solar power boom, generated over 40% of global electricity in 2024, marking a milestone not seen since the 1940s.

• Labor Party’s AUD 2.3 Billion Solar Battery Promise (TaiyangNews) - Australia's Labor Party pledges AUD 2.3 billion in battery subsidies, offering up to a 30% rebate to spur 1 million new installations by 2030 and cut household energy bills.

• Energy Vault closes US$28 million financing for California green hydrogen BESS microgrid (Energy Vault) - Energy Vault secures $28 million to fund a green hydrogen and battery energy storage system (BESS) microgrid in Calistoga, California.

• Germany adds another one million PV arrays to take solar total to 104 gigawatts (RenewEconomy) - Germany's solar PV capacity reaches 104 GW with over five million arrays installed, covering nearly 15% of its electricity demand, but expansion needs acceleration to meet climate goals.

• 'Momentum is unstoppable': How low carbon power provided 40 per cent of global electricity in 2024 (BusinessGreen) - Low-carbon sources, including renewables, hydro, and nuclear, supplied over 40% of global electricity in 2024, a level not seen since the 1940s.

• What are the top 10 states for renewable energy? (Environment America) - South Dakota leads the US in renewable energy, generating 92% of its electricity from wind, solar, and geothermal sources in 2024.

• 2025 Sustainable Energy in America Factbook (EESI) - The 2025 Sustainable Energy in America Factbook reveals US energy productivity growth alongside a changing energy mix, driven by factors like reshoring and AI.

• Energy Vault achieves financial close of $28 million for Calistoga Resiliency Centre, California (Energy Vault) - The Calistoga Resiliency Centre, a green hydrogen energy storage microgrid in California serving PG&E, secures $28 million in funding.

• Irish solar sets record in March, says EirGrid (GridBeyond) - EirGrid reports Irish solar power generation reached a record high in March.

• Gonvarri Solar Steel: Brand New Spanish 1P Tracker System (TaiyangNews) - Gonvarri Solar Steel's new TracSmarT+1P dual-row solar tracker features a 60° tracking range and SmarTSlope technology for efficient installation on uneven terrain.

• India’s Solar PV Manufacturing Capacity Improved By 37 GW in 2024 (TaiyangNews) - India increased its solar PV manufacturing capacity by 37 GW in 2024 due to government policies, but still relies heavily on imports.

• UK | Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2): shortlisted projects (Energy Central) - The UK's Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2) has shortlisted Green Cat Hydrogen projects for potential government support.

• Solfácil anuncia Mateus Neves como novo CTO (Solfácil) - Latin America's largest solar solutions company appoints AI and sustainability expert Mateus Neves as new CTO to expand AI integration and solar ecosystem growth.

Transport

Microliner electric aviation; CATL/Sinopec battery swaps; Trump's EV tariffs; UN shipping emissions; Oregon opposes HB3119; Ford Ranger PHEV; Brussels biofuels; Australia's EV supply chain; Germany's EV market; Tesla protests; Faraday Future 'Faraday X'; IONNA "Rechargery"; Labour's hybrid sales.

• White Paper: The Business Case for Scalable Electric Regional Aviation (VAERIDION) - A white paper argues that scalable electric regional aviation is economically viable due to rising fuel costs, carbon taxation, and airport electrification, with the Microliner designed for seamless integration.

• It’s Official: 10,000 New EV Battery Swapping Stations For CATL & Sinopec (CleanTechnica) - CATL and Sinopec will build 10,000 EV battery swapping stations in China, integrating them with smart energy microgrids and diverse battery-swappable vehicles.

• Collateral damage: US EV industry battered by Trump’s escalating trade war (RenewableEnergyWorld) - Trump's tariffs threaten US electric vehicle manufacturing by raising costs and creating uncertainty, potentially hindering EV adoption and shifting investments back to gas-powered vehicles.

• At a pivotal meeting, the world is set to decide how to cut shipping emissions (The Conversation) - UN maritime agency meeting to decide crucial policies on shipping emissions reduction and carbon pricing amid industry's 2030 climate targets.

• SOCAN Testimony Opposing HB3119 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate group opposes transportation bill HB3119, arguing it undermines state's greenhouse gas reduction goals and environmental justice efforts.

• Ford’s South Africa Plant Starts Producing The New Ford Ranger PHEV For The Global Market (CleanTechnica) - Ford's South Africa plant begins global production of Ranger PHEV, marking significant shift in country's automotive sector with projected 66,000 annual units.

• Biofuels International Conference and Expo 2025 (Biofuels International) - Major biofuels conference in Brussels to address EU renewable energy targets, sustainable aviation fuel, and biogas developments amid push for 45% renewable energy by 2030.

• If Australia switched to EVs, we’d be more reliant on China’s car factories – but wean ourselves off foreign oil (TheConversation) - Australia's shift to EVs would reduce reliance on foreign oil but increase dependence on Chinese EV manufacturing, requiring a balanced approach to energy security and supply chain diversification.

• EVs At 27.1% Share In Germany — VW Group Strong (CleanTechnica) - Germany's EV market share reached 27.1% in March, driven by plugin hybrids, while Volkswagen Group dominates BEV sales, despite overall auto market challenges and weakened emissions targets.

• ‘Tesla Takedown’ Protest Momentum (Covering Climate Now) - Protests against Elon Musk's actions and Tesla's EVs are growing, raising questions about the future of EV adoption amid slumping Tesla sales and rising competition.

• Tariffs add uncertainty to the EV transition (Canary Media) - Trump's tariffs threaten to increase EV costs and hinder their competitiveness against gasoline cars, potentially undermining the transition to electric vehicles.

• Faraday Future Teases Faraday X Model in Anticipation of Reveal in June 2025 (CleanTechnica) - Faraday Future previews new mass-market electric vehicle line 'Faraday X' with three models priced $20,000-$80,000, planned for late 2025 release.

• Tesla’s Loyal Following Has Vanished — Will Musk Capitulate? (CleanTechnica) - Tesla's brand value and sales plummet as CEO Elon Musk's alliance with Trump and controversial actions drive away loyal customer base.

• Estimating the Growth of Electric Vehicles, A 2024 Update on S-Curve Modeling (CleanTechnica) - Global EV adoption shows divergent trends as China maintains steady growth while Western markets face slowdown amid policy shifts and market headwinds.

• Cute, Quirky IONNA EV Charging Consortium Ain’t Here To Play (CleanTechnica) - IONNA EV charging consortium partners with VML to launch retro-styled "Rechargery" stations across US and Canada, challenging Tesla's Supercharger network dominance.

• Labour: changes to EV rules will have ‘negligible’ impact on UK emissions (The Guardian) - Labour government adjusts EV transition rules to allow hybrid sales until 2035 and exempt luxury carmakers from 2030 petrol ban, claiming minimal emissions impact.