Northvolt's battery bankruptcy

F

The ambitious European battery project Northvolt will file for bankruptcy, after raising $15B in financing, due to a list of challenges including EV demand slow-downs and apparent operational performance issues.

The company's key differentiators include best-in-class sodium-ion battery technology and work on circularity and ethical sourcing.

Hundreds of press outlets are covering the news; I've read 7 write-ups and recommend ESG Today's for a particularly good discussion.

PS don't forget to join us Friday on Zoom for Earth Catalyst Green Tech Startup Session #3. 50 startups and friends have registered already!

And now, our daily summaries of nearly 200 selected updates from around the world of green tech and sustainability.

Today's Updates

Table of Contents

• Agriculture (15 stories) - Microplastics, climate resilience, and innovative funding reshape global agricultural sustainability through technology and farmer-centered research across diverse ecosystems.

  
  

• Carbon (9 stories) - Mast Reforestation, Open Carbon Protocol Drive Blockchain and Biomass Innovations as Global Emissions Approach Critical Plateau, with Indonesia Launching Carbon Market and Colorado Unveiling Comprehensive Management Roadmap

  
  

• Circular (9 stories) - Reusable Packaging Advances and Plastic Reduction Efforts Highlighted by Oregon Legislation, Cradle-to-Cradle Design, and Innovative Recycling Solutions from Elecsome and Circular Economy Pioneers

  
  

• Ecosystems (20 stories) - Coastal Restoration, Mangrove Resilience, and Ecosystem Transformations: From Louisiana's Sediment Diversion to Global Climate Adaptation Efforts

  
  

• Efficiency (4 stories) - Heat pump economics boosted by utility rate innovations, with Bay Area clean energy initiatives showcasing electrification's public health and environmental benefits.

  
  

• Finance (7 stories) - Standard Chartered's $1B social bond, Glass Lewis-Esgaia merger highlight sustainable finance innovation amid climate tech investment challenges

  
  

• Grid (21 stories) - AI-Powered Grid Innovations: JinkoSolar, Kia, Mercedes, and DG Matrix Drive Resilient, Efficient Energy Infrastructure with Advanced Battery, Charging, and Monitoring Technologies

  
  

• Indigenous (9 stories) - Indigenous Women's Resilience: Mobilization, Climate Justice, and Community Leadership from Brazil to the Pacific Islands

  
  

• Industry (10 stories) - Mass timber housing, methane mitigation tech, and green hydrogen innovations drive industrial sustainability, with WATTALPS, Supercritical Solutions, and satellite monitoring leading transformative efforts

  
  

• Policy (61 stories) - Supreme Court, State Lawsuits, and Climate Policy Battles Reshape Environmental Governance Across US States and Federal Levels

  
  

• Renewables (28 stories) - Florida and China Lead Global Solar Expansion: Huasun, DAH Solar, and AIKO Drive Technological Innovation Amid Record 50 GW U.S. Installations and Emerging Market Dynamics

  
  

• Transport (10 stories) - EV Infrastructure Expands, Hydrogen Mobility Advances, Toyota Navigates Global Electric Vehicle Market Shifts

Agriculture

Microplastics, climate resilience, and innovative funding reshape global agricultural sustainability through technology and farmer-centered research across diverse ecosystems.

• Controlled-release fertilizers can spread microplastics on US cropland – study (Guardian) - Controlled-release fertilizers spread microplastics on US croplands, potentially contaminating soil and food supply with harmful plastic particles.

• Feature in Science Journal/ CGIAR Science Week 2025 🌱 (CGIAR) - Global drylands face critical challenges from land degradation and climate change, requiring science-driven solutions to support smallholder farmers' resilience.

• Without financing solutions, farmers have to leave money — and environmental benefits — on the table (EDF) - Dairy farmers need innovative financing solutions to implement sustainability projects and overcome economic barriers.

• Kiwi giant Zespri turns to climate resilience, decarbonization for next phase of its innovation fund (AgFunderNews) - Zespri reaffirms $2 million innovation fund focusing on climate resilience and decarbonization solutions for kiwi fruit production.

• Scaling Week 2024: Where Voices of Change Fuel the Future of Scaling (CGIAR) - Agricultural innovation experts convene in Nairobi to collaborate, share scaling strategies, and launch global Scaling for Impact Program.

• How more inclusive maize breeding can yield better outcomes for women farmers in Zimbabwe (CGIAR) - Innovative maize breeding program in Zimbabwe enhances food security by ensuring women farmers' needs and perspectives are integrated into agricultural research and variety development.

• Release: NSAC Responds to Termination of Critical Local Food Funding, Envisions Future for Popular Program (NSAC) - USDA terminates critical local food funding programs, potentially disrupting regional food supply chains and farmer economic opportunities.

• USDA cuts more than $1bn in local food purchases for schools, food banks (Guardian) - USDA eliminates $1bn in local food purchase programs, threatening school meals and food bank supplies during rising food costs.

• Indigo Ag has received $1.5 million from Google for regenerative agriculture program in Oklahoma (Indigo Ag) - Google provides $1.5 million to support regenerative agriculture water conservation program in Oklahoma.

• Stem op Herenboeren voor Agrarisch Ondernemer van het Jaar! (Herenboeren.nl) - Dutch cooperative farm Hof van Rhee nominated for Agricultural Entrepreneur of the Year, highlighting innovative sustainable farming model.

• The ‘sustainable’ cod in your shopping basket may be no such thing – new study reveals mislabelling (The Conversation) - Study reveals widespread mislabelling of cod's geographical origin in European supermarkets, with nearly 30% of samples misrepresenting their fishing location.

• Creating a Network of Aflatoxin Management Champions in the Global South (CGIAR) - International training program empowers Global South professionals to combat deadly aflatoxin contamination in food crops.

• Scaling Week 2024: The Unconference Experience (CGIAR) - Innovative "unconference" in Nairobi brings together 200 global agricultural researchers to collaboratively reimagine scaling innovations through participatory, human-centered design.

• Farmers in England furious as Defra pauses post-Brexit payment scheme (Guardian) - UK government halts sustainable farming initiative payments, leaving farmers frustrated and uncertain about future agricultural support.

• Green Fertilizer Markets and Innovation (RMI) - Green ammonia technologies offer promising low-carbon pathways to decarbonize fertilizer production through innovative hydrogen generation methods, addressing climate challenges in agricultural nitrogen supply.

Carbon

Mast Reforestation, Open Carbon Protocol Drive Blockchain and Biomass Innovations as Global Emissions Approach Critical Plateau, with Indonesia Launching Carbon Market and Colorado Unveiling Comprehensive Management Roadmap

• This is CDR: Mast Reforestation (YouTube - This is CDR) - Mast Reforestation explores innovative biomass burial and carbon finance strategies to accelerate ecosystem recovery and long-term carbon sequestration.

• This is CDR: Opensource MRV Protocols for CDR. (BBC) - Open Carbon Protocol develops blockchain-based, open-source infrastructure to solve carbon removal's monitoring and verification challenges through transparent, real-time credit verification.

• Could 2025 be the start of the GHG-Peak? (IEA) - Global greenhouse gas emissions may reach a critical plateau in 2025, with annual increases slowing to around 1% and total emissions stabilizing near 41.6 billion tons.

• Will Indonesia’s new carbon market be a climate solution or a game for big players? (Climate Change News) - Indonesia launches ambitious carbon market amid concerns over corporate dominance, greenwashing risks, and lack of clear regulatory framework.

• Capture6 raises $27.5M in Series A and project funding (Capture6) - Water technology startup secures $27.5M Series A funding to develop brine waste conversion and carbon removal solutions.

• Twelve Secures $85 million in Additional Series C & Project Funding (Twelve) - Carbon transformation startup secures $85 million in Series C funding to develop CO2-to-fuel technology with support from global investors.

• Announcing Second Nature’s New Carbon Markets & Offsets Guidance (Second Nature) - New comprehensive guidance helps higher education institutions navigate carbon offset markets with integrity and scientific rigor.

• Colorado’s Carbon Management Roadmap: A Milestone for Climate Action (Great Plains Institute) - Colorado unveils comprehensive Carbon Management Roadmap with 68 policy recommendations to advance net-zero emissions and support responsible carbon management technologies.

• Earth's 'dirty mirror' effect is accelerating climate change (ScienceDaily) - Earth's 'dirty mirror' effect causes more solar energy absorption, accelerating global warming through reduced cloud reflectivity and changing atmospheric conditions.

Circular

Reusable Packaging Advances and Plastic Reduction Efforts Highlighted by Oregon Legislation, Cradle-to-Cradle Design, and Innovative Recycling Solutions from Elecsome and Circular Economy Pioneers

• Closed Loop Partners and U.S. Plastics Pact Identify Top 5 Consumer Product Categories Poised for Near-Term Reuse Success in U.S. Retail (Closed Loop Partners) - Report identifies top 5 consumer product categories primed for reusable packaging in U.S. retail, targeting prepared food, produce, beverages, home care, and personal care products.

• Bill to reduce single-use plastics clears Oregon Senate with bipartisan support (Environment Oregon) - Oregon Senate passes bipartisan bill to reduce single-use plastics by eliminating plastic bags, hotel toiletries, and unrequested utensils by 2028.

• Cradle-to-Cradle in LCA: What Is It & How Does It Work? (Ecochain) - Cradle-to-cradle design methodology transforms product lifecycles by repurposing materials, enabling circular economy principles through reuse, recycling, and extended product lifetimes.

• “Chemical Recycling” of Plastics Is Really a Toxic Trap (NRDC) - Chemical recycling of plastics is a toxic, ineffective solution that increases pollution and hazardous waste while failing to address the plastics crisis.

• STATEMENT: Oregon Senate Passes Plastics Reduction Bill (Environment America) - Oregon Senate passes bipartisan bill to reduce single-use plastics by banning checkout bags, hotel toiletries, and unrequested utensils.

• Pioneering Australian company marks new milestone on “mission” to upcycle end-of-life solar panels (RenewEconomy) - Australian solar recycling startup Elecsome receives patent for upcycling end-of-life solar panels into construction materials.

• “If We Ignore Food Waste, Why Would Small Restaurants Care?”: Grand Hyatt Seoul leads by example (Winnow Blog) - Grand Hyatt Seoul demonstrates innovative food waste reduction strategies through AI-driven tracking, creative ingredient repurposing, and flexible buffet service.

• Pass It On: Insights from Chef Frank Zouari (Winnow Solutions) - Chef Frank Zouari champions food waste reduction in professional kitchens, cutting waste by 35% through innovative tracking and team engagement.

• Secondhand Sisters: Sophie Dresses Up With Beni (Bluedot Living) - Beni browser extension helps shoppers find affordable, sustainable secondhand fashion across 40+ resale platforms.

Ecosystems

Coastal Restoration, Mangrove Resilience, and Ecosystem Transformations: From Louisiana's Sediment Diversion to Global Climate Adaptation Efforts

• The Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion: Setting the Record Straight (Restore the Mississippi River Delta) - Louisiana's $1.8 billion Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project aims to combat coastal land loss by strategically reconnecting the Mississippi River to wetlands, creating thousands of acres of new land and protecting coastal communities.

• The Mexican women who defied drug-dealers, fly-tippers and chauvinists to build a thriving business (Guardian) - Mexican women's cooperative transforms mangrove ecosystem, challenges gender norms, and builds sustainable shellfish business through collective environmental action.

• In the middle of cyclone preparation I found a baby bird – one tiny, wild life amid the wind and rain | Jessie Cole (Guardian) - Amid Cyclone Alfred's devastation, a writer discovers a rare rose-crowned fruit dove, symbolizing resilience and hope in a landscape repeatedly transformed by climate-driven natural disasters.

• How ‘ecological empathy’ can help humans reconnect with nature and shape a better world (Mongabay) - Ecological empathy offers a framework for humans to reconnect with nature by understanding and integrating the needs of the more-than-human world.

• Can the World’s Largest Ice Rink Survive a Warming Planet? (Inside Climate News) - Ottawa's iconic Rideau Canal Skateway faces existential threat from climate change, prompting innovative research to preserve world's largest ice rink amid warming winters.

• Are We Imagining It, Or Were Winters Colder & Snowier When We Were Kids? (CleanTechnica) - Climate data reveals winters are warmer and less snowy now compared to past decades, challenging nostalgic memories of colder childhood winters.

• How Hurricanes Can Fuel Wildfires in the Southeast (Inside Climate News) - Hurricane-felled trees and prolonged drought create dangerous wildfire conditions across the Southeastern United States.

• Flash floods, blackouts and a ‘sharknado’ as Cyclone Alfred lashes Australia (Mongabay) - Cyclone Alfred devastates Australian coast with severe flooding, power outages, and unprecedented marine life displacement.

• Ocean Literacy Is the Key to Human Security (Earth.org) - Ocean literacy is crucial for understanding marine ecosystems, protecting human security, and developing sustainable strategies for ocean conservation.

• How climate change could be increasing your chance of catching a virus from sewage – new study (The Conversation) - Climate change may increase virus transmission risks through sewage contamination during extreme weather events.

• Arctic sea ice loss drives drier weather over California and wetter over Spain and Portugal (ScienceDaily) - Arctic sea ice loss triggers regional climate shifts, causing California to become drier and Spain and Portugal to experience increased winter humidity.

• RSVP: California’s Forest Futures (CTrees) - California Climate Week panel explores forest ecosystem protection, wildfire risk reduction, and nature-based climate solutions in California.

• Solar farms can host up to three times as many birds as crop fields – new research (RenewEconomy) - Mixed-habitat solar farms in UK can host up to three times more bird species than traditional croplands, offering biodiversity benefits.

• A bird last seen by Darwin 190 years ago reappears on a Galápagos island (Mongabay) - Galápagos rail, unseen since Darwin's 1835 visit, reappears on Floreana Island after invasive species eradication.

• How one woman’s wolf ‘moon shot’ changed Yellowstone forever: Interview with director Tom Winston (Mongabay) - Documentary 'Mollie's Pack' chronicles groundbreaking 1995 wolf reintroduction to Yellowstone National Park, highlighting Mollie Beattie's pivotal role in restoring a keystone species.

• ‘Global weirding’: climate whiplash hitting world’s biggest cities, study reveals (Guardian) - Major global cities experiencing dramatic climate shifts with extreme wet-dry weather patterns threatening urban populations and infrastructure.

• Pacific Northwest students organize beach cleanup near Astoria (Environment America) - Pacific Northwest students conduct beach cleanup, highlighting plastic pollution's pervasive impact near Astoria.

• Northern Territory’s growing saltwater crocodile population gorging on nine times more prey than 50 years ago (Guardian) - Northern Territory's saltwater crocodile population now consumes nine times more prey than 50 years ago, significantly impacting ecosystem nutrient cycles.

• When a chimp community lost its males, it also lost part of its love language (Mongabay) - Chimpanzee community in Côte d'Ivoire loses unique mating signal after male poaching, highlighting the fragility of learned cultural behaviors.

• Toad patrol volunteers are ensuring frisky amphibians can cross the road to reach their mating grounds (The Conversation) - Dedicated volunteers help thousands of toads safely cross roads during their annual breeding migration, highlighting critical conservation efforts for declining amphibian populations.

Efficiency

Heat pump economics boosted by utility rate innovations, with Bay Area clean energy initiatives showcasing electrification's public health and environmental benefits.

• There Is a Stupidly Easy Way to Make Heat Pumps More Affordable (Heatmap News) - Utilities can make heat pumps more affordable by offering discounted winter electricity rates, potentially increasing adoption and reducing heating costs.

• Empowering Electrification: Breathe Easy, Bay Area (MCE) - Bay Area clean energy initiative demonstrates how electrification reduces air pollution, improves public health, and creates healthier communities through renewable energy and electric technologies.

• How closing the ‘spark gap’ can boost heat pump adoption (Canary Media) - Strategic electricity rate redesign can make heat pumps economically viable in cold-weather states with high electricity prices.

• Introducing the New Location Page (Station A) - New location page feature provides comprehensive data insights for clean energy portfolio management and decision-making.

Finance

Standard Chartered's $1B social bond, Glass Lewis-Esgaia merger highlight sustainable finance innovation amid climate tech investment challenges

• Leading the way with transparency and action (Drax) - Company reports 71% of revenue aligned with EU Taxonomy, demonstrating leadership in sustainable finance and renewable energy transition.

• Standard Chartered Issues $1 Billion Social Bond to Fund Sustainable Development in Emerging Markets (ESG Today) - Standard Chartered raises $1 billion social bond to finance sustainable development in emerging markets' small businesses and critical infrastructure.

• Climate Tech Is Facing a ‘Moment of Truth’ (Heatmap News) - Climate tech startups face existential challenges amid Trump administration's funding freezes and policy uncertainty, threatening critical growth-stage investments.

• Half of Execs Report Higher Sales, Lower Costs from Sustainability Initiatives: Survey (ESG Today) - Survey reveals half of executives report higher sales and lower costs from sustainability initiatives, with advanced integrators seeing more benefits.

• Google to Provide Advertisers with Carbon Footprint Data for Ads (ESG Today) - Google launches carbon footprint tracking for advertisers, enabling precise emissions measurement across marketing platforms.

• CFA Institute Drops “ESG” Label from ESG Investing Certificate (ESG Today) - CFA Institute rebrands its ESG Investing Certificate to Sustainable Investing Certificate amid political controversy.

• Glass Lewis Acquires Investment Stewardship Data Platform Esgaia (ESG Today) - Glass Lewis acquires Esgaia, a Stockholm-based investment stewardship data platform to streamline investor engagement and reporting workflows.

Grid

AI-Powered Grid Innovations: JinkoSolar, Kia, Mercedes, and DG Matrix Drive Resilient, Efficient Energy Infrastructure with Advanced Battery, Charging, and Monitoring Technologies

• Jinko ESS Solution of Micro-grid AC- Coupled System (TaiyangNews) - JinkoSolar installs 1.2MWp solar and 4.8MWh battery system at Nigeria's National Arts Theatre, reducing grid dependence and carbon emissions by 50%.

• How AI is Solving Grid Reliability Challenges – Industry Insight from Zohar Asher (Innowatts) - AI-powered energy analytics platform revolutionizes grid reliability by leveraging machine learning to provide precise demand forecasting and manage distributed energy resources.

• Bi-Directional Charging News From Kia & Mercedes (CleanTechnica) - Kia and Mercedes advance bi-directional charging technology, enabling electric vehicles to serve as home backup power and grid support systems.

• How AI is solving real utility challenges (Latitude Media) - Microsoft expert highlights AI's transformative potential in utility sector, from grid management to scientific breakthroughs and green energy matching.

• LiveEO | Meet us at Distributech 2025 (LiveEO) - Satellite-powered vegetation management solution Treeline to showcase grid monitoring innovations at DISTRIBUTECH 2025 conference.

• Connecting the West: How California Can Strengthen the Grid (NRDC) - California's SB 540 bill proposes creating a regional electricity market to improve grid efficiency, lower costs, and accelerate clean energy across the Western United States.

• Report: California has immediate and long-term solutions to bring down electricity rates (NRDC) - California can reduce electricity rates by 10% through strategic cost shifts, fixed charge reforms, and enhanced utility oversight.

• Big batteries just hit a new record in Australia, but it’s a small fraction of the battery output in California (RenewEconomy) - Australia hits record 1.22 GW battery output, but California's 8.35 GW battery discharge dwarfs national achievement.

• Keeping Batteries Safe for Grid Stability (Energy Central) - Advanced battery technologies and bidirectional charging systems enhance EV infrastructure resilience, enabling grid stability during extreme weather conditions.

• The POWER Interview: Upgrading the Grid Key to Support Electrification (POWER) - Grid modernization technologies are critical for supporting increasing electricity demand from electrification while maintaining system reliability and efficiency.

• DG Matrix Raises $20 Million to Revolutionize Global Energy Infrastructure with the World’s First Multi-Port Solid-State Transformer (Clean Energy Ventures) - DG Matrix secures $20M to develop innovative solid-state transformer technology for grid optimization and AI data center electrification.

• Sungrow Delivery Success Story: From Grid Energization to Commercial Operation in Just Two Weeks: Bramley 331MWh BESS Project Sets a New Record in the UK (TaiyangNews) - Sungrow sets a UK and European record by completing the 331MWh Bramley Battery Energy Storage System from grid energization to commercial operation in just two weeks.

• AGL adds pumped hydro project based around old coal mine to EPBC pipeline (RenewEconomy) - AGL plans 400MW pumped hydro project at former coal mine in Hunter Valley, targeting first generation by 2029.

• Network to trial community batteries for grid resilience, reducing outages, and supporting EV charging (RenewEconomy) - SA Power Networks launches eight community batteries to enhance grid resilience, support EV charging, and mitigate power outages across South Australia.

• Ann Arbor’s sustainable energy utility aims to build the electric power grid of the future − alongside the old one (Renewable Energy World) - Ann Arbor launches innovative sustainable energy utility alongside existing grid, enabling community-driven clean energy generation and distribution through opt-in solar, microgrids, and efficiency services.

• Grid conductor manufacturer opening second plant in South Carolina (Renewable Energy World) - TS Conductor to invest $134 million in second South Carolina manufacturing facility, creating 462 advanced grid conductor jobs by end of 2025.

• Florida is seeing record amounts of new solar installations. How is Duke Energy prepping the grid of the future? (Renewable Energy World) - Duke Energy showcases innovative grid management strategies for Florida's booming solar installations at DTECH conference.

• SOCAN testimony Supporting HB3609 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate group advocates for House Bill 3609 to promote distributed power plants and grid electrification as key climate action strategy.

• A recipe for making heat pumps work where power is expensive (Canary Media) - Flexible utility rates can improve heat pump economics in cold, high-electricity-cost regions.

• Ontario imposes 25% tariff on power exports to US (Utility Dive) - Ontario imposes a 25% tariff on electricity exports to the United States in retaliation for Trump administration trade policies.

• BLUETTI EP500 Pro — 1½ Years Later (CleanTechnica) - BLUETTI EP500 Pro home battery system demonstrates robust performance and reliability after 1.5 years of intermittent use during hurricane preparedness.

Indigenous

Indigenous Women's Resilience: Mobilization, Climate Justice, and Community Leadership from Brazil to the Pacific Islands

• Rionegrinas | Documentary (ISA) - Documentary "Rionegrinas" chronicles the powerful stories and 20-year mobilization of indigenous women in Brazil's Rio Negro region, highlighting their leadership and cultural resilience.

• Rainbow Warrior arrives in Marshall Islands to call for nuclear and climate justice on 40th anniversary of Rongelap evacuation (Greenpeace) - Rainbow Warrior arrives in Marshall Islands to commemorate nuclear testing legacy and support climate justice for Pacific communities.

• Hope from the Grassroots: Haiti (UUSC) - Grassroots Haitian partners persist in advancing community-led solutions amid political instability and humanitarian crisis.

• The Impact of Giving – A SEFS Donor Spotlight Series: John C. Garcia (UW SEFS) - John C. Garcia's legacy supports innovative environmental research through a term professorship funding four faculty members advancing wildlife, climate adaptation, and sustainability studies.

• The Atikamekw of Opitciwan First Nation takes another step toward self-government in child and family services by signing bilateral agreement with Canada (Indigenous Services Canada) - Atikamekw of Opitciwan First Nation signs groundbreaking bilateral agreement for autonomous child and family services.

• Chorus for ‘systemic transformation’ grows louder as Sri Lanka prepares to host the 3rd Nyéléni Global Forum (Via Campesina) - Global social movements prepare to converge in Sri Lanka for transformative forum addressing systemic polycrises across food, climate, and social justice.

• Join us on 3/13 at NAICOB: How to Use the UPR for Indigenous Rights (Cultural Survival) - Indigenous advocates to learn UN human rights mechanisms for advancing Indigenous rights through Universal Periodic Review process.

• International Women’s Day 2025 - Creating an Exciting & Purposeful Career After Retirement (BBC) - Acclaimed Singaporean creative director Ms. Lim Sau Hoong launches Fenbao, a multicultural animation character series promoting sustainability, creativity, and cultural expression in her purposeful post-retirement career.

• Paraguay: Popular pots & the women who support homes and families (Via Campesina) - Paraguayan women lead community soup kitchens as acts of resistance, solidarity, and food sovereignty during economic crises.

Industry

Mass timber housing, methane mitigation tech, and green hydrogen innovations drive industrial sustainability, with WATTALPS, Supercritical Solutions, and satellite monitoring leading transformative efforts

• Build Smarter, Not Harder (Bluedot Living) - University of San Diego architect develops mass timber housing solution to address California's housing crisis with sustainable, fire-resistant, and quickly constructed residential units.

• Cutting Through the Noise: Look to Market Forces for Methane Momentum (RMI) - Market forces and technological advancements are driving momentum in methane mitigation, with satellite monitoring, emissions standards, and financial incentives accelerating global efforts to reduce oil and gas sector methane leakage.

• WATTALPS Welcomes Crédit Agricole Sud Rhône Alpes’ Representatives, Showcasing Innovation and Sustainability (WATTALPS) - Battery innovator WATTALPS showcases sustainable immersion cooling technology to Crédit Agricole Sud Rhône Alpes, highlighting second-life battery solutions and growth potential.

• Supercritical Raises $18 Million to Scale Low-Cost Green Hydrogen Solution (ESG Today) - Supercritical Solutions secures $18 million in Series A funding to advance low-cost green hydrogen electrolyzer technology for hard-to-abate industries.

• Nature Tech Debut: Nearly 600 leaders are expected to join the first Nature Tech Week this March (Nature4Climate) - First Nature Tech Week to convene 600 global leaders exploring digital solutions for nature-positive growth and environmental risk mitigation.

• Waste Not, Want Not. The Complete Picture of Where Gas Leaks and How to Stop It. (RMI) - Comprehensive analysis reveals widespread gas leaks across oil and gas supply chains, offering cost-effective solutions to dramatically reduce methane emissions and prevent environmental and safety risks.

• Debunking The Myth: Electrolyzing Hydrogen For Energy Is Wasteful & Higher Emissions (CleanTechnica) - Electrolysis for hydrogen production is inefficient and costly, with significant energy losses making direct electrification a superior decarbonization strategy for most applications.

• US-Ukraine deal highlights Ukraine’s wealth of critical minerals, but extracting them isn’t so simple (The Conversation) - US-Ukraine strategic partnership highlights Ukraine's vast untapped critical mineral reserves, crucial for global technology and defense industries.

• The Nissan/Honda Merger Talks May Be Back On (CleanTechnica) - Nissan's leadership transition may revive merger talks with Honda, potentially reshaping the company's strategic direction under new CEO Ivan Espinosa.

• Selling to utilities as a climate startup (Enduring Planet) - Climate startups can successfully sell to utilities by understanding their complex structures, tailoring approaches, and strategically navigating multi-stakeholder sales processes.

Policy

Supreme Court, State Lawsuits, and Climate Policy Battles Reshape Environmental Governance Across US States and Federal Levels

• US Supreme Court clears way for climate lawsuits against Big Oil (NYT) - US Supreme Court allows state-level climate lawsuits against fossil fuel companies to proceed, rejecting Republican states' challenge.

• GenCLEO heads off to Earth Advocacy Day (CLEO Institute) - UCF student activists prepare to rally for climate-friendly legislation at Florida State Capitol's Earth Advocacy Day event.

• Join the call to Make Polluters Pay (198methods) - Grassroots campaign mobilizes nationwide support for Climate Superfund laws to hold fossil fuel companies financially accountable for climate damages.

• SOCAN testimony in Support of HB3681 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate group advocates for HB3681 to streamline clean energy project permitting and accelerate renewable energy grid transition.

• SOCAN Testimony Supporting HB3546 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate group advocates for HB3546 to ensure large data centers pay fair share of energy infrastructure costs.

• CEBA Travels to Japan to Discuss Updated Strategic Energy Plan (CEBA) - Japan's new strategic energy plan prioritizes renewable energy and economic growth, targeting 40-50% renewable and 20% nuclear energy mix by 2040.

• 'Spatial conflict': Study proposes guidelines for compensating fishermen impacted by offshore wind development (BusinessGreen) - Plymouth Marine Laboratory study recommends compensation guidelines to mitigate conflicts between offshore wind developers and fishing communities.

• What is a SLAPP suit? Legal experts explain how these lawsuits suppress free speech (The Conversation) - Energy Transfer's lawsuit against Greenpeace over Dakota Access Pipeline protests exemplifies how strategic lawsuits can intimidate and suppress environmental activism.

• Governor Youngkin should sign the CARE Act to lower energy bills (CCAN Action Fund) - Virginia's CARE Act would lower energy bills by expanding community solar access and reducing reliance on costly fossil fuel power generation.

• What’s Causing Birmingham’s Code Red Air Quality Alert? (Inside Climate News) - Prescribed forest burn in Alabama triggers Code Red air quality alert for Birmingham metro area, trapping hazardous particulate matter under atmospheric inversion.

• The idea that economic equality is good for the climate is appealing. But is it true? (Anthropocene Magazine) - Study reveals economic equality paradoxically increases carbon emissions due to higher consumption, challenging climate action narratives.

• Why conspiracy theories and misinformation spread in the long wait for Cyclone Alfred (The Conversation) - Cyclone Alfred's prolonged wait sparked widespread social media conspiracy theories about weather manipulation, reflecting growing distrust in authorities during extreme climate events.

• Environmental advocates drive to Tallahassee to carry climate concerns to legislative session (CLEO Institute) - Florida environmental advocates mobilize students to protest climate impacts and utility policies at state legislative session.

• Power & Progress: Fight Over Frozen Climate Funds (Covering Climate Now) - Trump's funding freeze on climate programs halts critical state and local projects, sparking legal challenges and economic disruption.

• Ask Mom Detective: Are Plastic Water Bottles Safe? (Moms Clean Air Force) - Plastic water bottles stored in unregulated temperatures pose potential health risks due to chemical leaching and microplastic contamination.

• Global “Honors” for Environmental Journalism (cartoon) (Mongabay) - UNESCO reports 70% of environmental journalists face attacks, highlighting dangerous landscape of reporting on critical global issues.

• Future of Funding for Military’s Climate Change Plans Caught Up in Fury of Trump Cuts (Inside Climate News) - Northern Virginia military bases seek climate adaptation funding amid potential Trump administration budget cuts.

• “We’re not throwing money at crazy stuff:” Australia’s low appetite for risk a roadblock to green industry (RenewEconomy) - Australia's cautious approach to risk and government funding poses challenges for developing innovative low-carbon industries.

• Member Spotlight: Dr. Lisa Micheli (9Zero) - Dr. Lisa Micheli, a wildfire and watershed resilience expert, discusses her climate science journey from theoretical physics to AI-powered climate risk assessment and ecosystem restoration.

• It’s All Spin (NIRS) - Despite media claims, there is no actual nuclear power revival in the US, with zero new plants under construction and renewable energy dramatically outpacing nuclear expansion.

• Getting to Zero Forum (Energy Central) - Getting to Zero Forum convenes built environment leaders to discuss decarbonization strategies and climate solutions in Los Angeles.

• What you need to know about TCE (EWG) - EPA bans toxic chemical TCE due to severe health risks, with some Congress members seeking to reverse the prohibition.

• CERAWeek Loves Chris Wright (Heatmap News) - Energy Secretary Chris Wright declares climate change a 'side effect of building the modern world' during controversial CERAWeek keynote, pledging to end Biden-era climate policies.

• A seat at the table remains unoccupied without a seat on the bus (Greenpeace) - Delhi women's mobility challenges reveal systemic barriers in public transportation, highlighting the need for inclusive urban design and gender-sensitive transit policies.

• All But 7 Countries Faced Unsafe Air Pollution Levels in 2024: Report (Earth.org) - Only 7 countries maintained safe air pollution levels in 2024, with Chad and Bangladesh recording dangerously high PM2.5 concentrations far exceeding WHO guidelines.

• See The Solutions: How Photojournalism Can Better Capture Stories of Hope, Resilience and Climate Solutions (SEJ) - Webinar explores transformative power of photojournalism in communicating climate solutions through compelling visual storytelling.

• In Trump’s new purge of climate language, even ‘resilience’ isn’t safe (Grist) - Trump's second-term executive orders systematically eliminate climate change language from federal websites and scientific discourse, effectively censoring environmental terminology.

• The world regulated sulfur in ship fuels − and the lightning stopped (The Conversation) - Sulfur emission regulations in shipping lanes led to a dramatic 50% reduction in lightning strikes near Singapore.

• Trump orders likely to drive species’ extinction, wildlife advocates warn (Guardian) - Trump administration's proposed changes to Endangered Species Act threaten wildlife conservation through staffing cuts, 'God squad' interventions, and industry-friendly policies.

• Residents fight for Kentucky water (Appalachian Voices) - Kentucky residents protest SB 89, a bill that would eliminate water protections for groundwater, ephemeral streams, and wetlands, threatening water quality for over 1.5 million people.

• Meet The Women Survivors of the World’s Worst Industrial Disaster (Atmos) - Forty years after the Bhopal industrial disaster, women survivors continue fighting for justice against Union Carbide's toxic legacy of environmental and health devastation.

• Her Family Moved to Escape This Deadly Chemical — But It Followed (Earthjustice) - Lawmakers attempt to overturn Biden's ban on trichloroethylene (TCE), a cancer-causing chemical that has devastated Latino communities through toxic water contamination.

• Tragedy haunts community on shore of Sumatra’s largest solar farm (Mongabay) - Sumatra's largest planned floating solar farm faces community resistance due to lingering trauma from past hydroelectric project's environmental and social impacts.

• SSI: Europe’s Comprehensive & Robust Sustainability Assurance Program (TaiyangNews) - Solar Stewardship Initiative launches comprehensive ESG and supply chain traceability program for European solar industry, rating production sites on sustainability performance.

• Gas network death spiral: Pressure mounts to protect consumers from cost of stranded assets (RenewEconomy) - Energy Consumers Australia proposes rule changes to protect consumers from rising costs of declining gas network infrastructure.

• Hundreds of youth climate change activists come to Tallahassee to rally & meet with lawmakers (CLEO Institute) - Hundreds of youth climate activists rally in Tallahassee, urging lawmakers to protect state parks and address climate change impacts.

• Climate United Fund sues EPA, Citibank over frozen $7B (Utility Dive) - Climate United Fund files lawsuit against EPA and Citibank to unfreeze $6.97 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund grant.

• This Thursday: Why We Need NOAA Now More Than Ever (Covering Climate Now) - Webinar highlights critical importance of NOAA amid potential budget cuts and layoffs threatening weather forecasting and climate research.

• EU | Hydrogen Index (Energy Central) - European Union advances hydrogen infrastructure with regulatory framework and financing mechanisms, but requires further operationalization and national implementation.

• Energy Facility Siting Council to Meet March 21, 2025 (Oregon Energy Info) - Energy Facility Siting Council to convene public meeting on March 21, 2025, addressing solar facility amendments and transmission project extensions.

• ¿Tienes preguntas sobre el cambio climático? (Yale Climate Connections) - Climate journalism platform launches interactive expert Q&A series to crowdsource and answer public questions about climate change impacts and solutions.

• SOCAN Testimony Supporting HB3477 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate advocacy group urges support for HB3477 to strengthen state greenhouse gas reduction goals and governance.

• SOCAN Follow-up Testimony Supporting HB3477 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate advocacy group urges passage of HB3477 to mandate aggressive statewide greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

• SOCAN Testimony Supporting SB681 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate advocacy group urges state treasury to divest from fossil fuel investments through SB681 legislation.

• SOCAN Testimony Supporting HB3172 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate organization advocates for HB3172 to create wildfire prevention program targeting vulnerable communities through proactive home hardening investments.

• Administrator Zeldin Explains How He Plans to Cut 65% of EPA’s Total Spending (EPA) - Administrator Lee Zeldin proposes cutting EPA's budget by 65%, targeting DEI grants, real estate costs, and unnecessary spending to focus on core environmental protection mission.

• LCV Statement Ahead of House Republican Vote to Slash Funds for Environmental Protections (LCV) - House Republicans propose drastic funding cuts that would undermine environmental protections and harm critical social services.

• From London to Houston: How Chris Wright’s Anti-Net Zero Rhetoric Shifts (CleanTechnica) - U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright shifts anti-net zero rhetoric from political attacks to pseudo-scientific claims at international conferences.

• Saving U.S. Climate and Environmental Data Before It Goes Away (Yale E360) - Researchers race to archive and preserve critical U.S. climate and environmental data at risk of removal during Trump's second administration.

• A New Bill Would Allow Duke Energy to Retreat From North Carolina’s Ambitious Climate Goals (Inside Climate News) - North Carolina bill would allow Duke Energy to delay carbon reduction goals, potentially increasing greenhouse gas emissions and natural gas plant construction.

• Carbon Brief 采访清华大学王灿教授 (Carbon Brief) - Chinese climate expert Wang Can discusses global carbon neutrality progress, highlighting challenges in renewable energy deployment, carbon markets, and the unique decarbonization pathways for developing countries like China.

• Will Brazil’s President Lula wake up to the climate crisis? (commentary) (Mongabay) - Brazil's President Lula risks catastrophic climate consequences by continuing policies that increase emissions and threaten Amazon rainforest survival.

• Community Response to Attacks on Nature (Green Latinos) - Community activists strategize collective defense of public lands and oceans against Trump-era environmental policy rollbacks.

• NASA begins mass firings of scientists (Nature) - NASA initiates unprecedented mass layoffs of career employees as part of federal government downsizing.

• EWG statement on FDA food chemical safety announcement (EWG) - FDA proposes exploring revisions to food chemical safety system that currently allows companies to self-determine chemical safety without mandatory FDA review.

• Maryland Officials Support Gas Plants Among Cleaner Forms of Generation (POWER) - Maryland lawmakers propose legislation supporting natural gas and nuclear power plants to increase in-state electricity generation and reduce utility costs.

• Answers to common questions about the EU omnibus proposal (Watershed) - EU's omnibus proposal seeks to simplify CSRD reporting requirements, potentially reducing data points and aligning with global standards while delaying implementation timelines.

• Navigating International Arbitration in Power Generation: Key Insights for Dispute Resolution and Asset Protection (POWER) - International arbitration case reveals complex legal risks for energy companies navigating geopolitical tensions and potential asset seizures.

• At least a dozen US states rush to ban common food dyes, citing health risks (Guardian) - At least a dozen US states move to ban common food dyes, citing health risks and gaining bipartisan support amid growing concerns over chemical additives.

• City of Vancouver approves over $11M in grants to support community organizations creating positive change (Vancouver.ca) - City allocates over $11M in community grants to support non-profit organizations across diverse social service sectors.

• Don't Miss Out: RSVP Now for Rise & Energize on March 18th! (Boundary Stone Partners) - Energy sector networking event invites industry leaders to connect and exchange ideas in Washington, DC on March 18th.

Renewables

Florida and China Lead Global Solar Expansion: Huasun, DAH Solar, and AIKO Drive Technological Innovation Amid Record 50 GW U.S. Installations and Emerging Market Dynamics

• Florida leapfrogs California for large solar installations (Canary Media) - Florida surpasses California in solar installations, adding 3 GW of utility-scale solar in 2024 despite conservative leadership.

• Huasun Pioneers Efficiency and Aesthetic Innovation of HJT Solar Panels at K. EY Rimini Italy (TaiyangNews) - Huasun showcases high-efficiency HJT solar modules with innovative agrivoltaic and aesthetic designs at K.EY Energy Transition Expo in Rimini, Italy.

• 40 MW Proposed Capacity For UK’s ‘Largest’ Floating Solar Project (TaiyangNews) - ABP proposes UK's largest 40 MW floating solar project at Port of Barrow, aiming to power 14,000 homes while preserving port land for operations.

• China Solar PV News Snippets: GCL Group Subsidiary Plans Solar PV & Thermal Module Plant & More (Taiyangnews) - GCL Group subsidiary plans 3 GW solar PV and 1 GW thermal module manufacturing plant in Anhui Province with $249 million investment.

• Study: Four in 10 new homes now feature solar panels (BusinessGreen) - New analysis reveals four in 10 new homes in England now feature solar panels due to stricter building energy efficiency regulations.

• It’s All Spin by Tim Judson (NIRS) - Despite media claims, there is no nuclear energy revival in the US, with zero new plants under construction and renewable energy dominating new electricity generation.

• Canada’s Cumulative Installed Solar PV Capacity Exceeds 5 GW (TaiyangNews) - Canada's solar PV capacity surpasses 5 GW, with 92% growth between 2019-2024 and ambitious renewable energy expansion plans.

• Florida is now a solar superpower. Here’s how it happened. (CLEO Institute) - Florida becomes a solar powerhouse, installing record utility-scale and residential solar capacity despite political opposition to climate action.

• The US Solar Industry Is Setting Records, But The Dark Clouds Of Doom Are Gathering (CleanTechnica) - US solar industry sets record 50 GW installation in 2024 but faces potential significant decline under potential policy changes and political uncertainty.

• Solar Encapsulation & Backsheets Adapting To A Shifting Market (TaiyangNews) - Solar module encapsulation materials evolve with shifting cell technologies, market pressures, and performance requirements amid industry-wide cost challenges.

• DAH Solar Continues to Rank on Q1 2025 BNEF Tier 1 List. (TaiyangNews) - DAH Solar maintains its prestigious Tier 1 status in BloombergNEF's Q1 2025 solar module manufacturer ranking, demonstrating industry leadership and global market recognition.

• Researchers say energy in water could power future battery breakthroughs (RenewEconomy) - Australian researchers discover water generates 10 times more electrical charge than previously thought, potentially revolutionizing renewable energy and battery technologies.

• AIKO Begins Global Delivery of its Third-generation INFINITE Modules (TaiyangNews) - AIKO launches third-generation INFINITE solar modules globally, offering breakthrough efficiency, intelligent technology, and superior durability for residential and commercial applications.

• Arcadia, Perch Energy Announce Major Community Solar Deal (POWER) - Arcadia and Perch Energy merge to create one of the largest community solar companies, managing 3 GW of solar capacity across 16 states.

• Perch Energy, Arcadia unit merge to form community solar joint venture (Utility Dive) - Perch Energy and Arcadia merge to create largest U.S. community solar management platform with over 3 GW capacity across 16 states.

• Trinasolar begins deliveries for integrated solar and energy storage project at Sandon Brook, UK (TaiyangNews) - Trinasolar launches 49.9 MW integrated solar and energy storage project at Sandon Brook, UK, combining modules, mounting structures, and battery storage from a single source.

• China 760W+ Club Launches HJT Leadership Initiative: 3 Phases to Achieve 800 W PV Module Output by End of 2026 (TaiyangNews) - China's 760W+ HJT Club launches ambitious three-phase initiative to advance solar module efficiency, targeting 800W output by end of 2026.

• Corning, Suniva and Heliene form US solar supply chain (Utility Dive) - Corning, Suniva, and Heliene partner to create a domestically-produced solar module supply chain with up to 66% U.S.-made content.

• Geothermal could meet 64% of hyperscale data center power demand (Latitude Media) - Enhanced geothermal energy could potentially meet up to 64% of hyperscale data center electricity demand growth in the United States by 2030.

• Fresh Water, From the Ocean (Bluedot Living) - Oneka Technologies develops wave-powered ocean desalination buoys to provide freshwater for drought-prone communities, testing largest platform in Nova Scotia.

• Juniper Green’s 100 MW Solar Project To Power Bhutan (TaiyangNews) - Juniper Green Energy launches 100 MW solar project in Rajasthan to supply electricity to Bhutan during winter months.

• How The US Lost The Floating Wind Turbine Race (CleanTechnica) - US taxpayer-funded floating wind turbine technology is being commercialized by international companies while domestic deployment stalls due to policy interruptions.

• Stronger and lighter: Wooden towers to be used for bigger wind turbines (RenewEconomy) - European companies develop innovative wooden wind turbine towers using laminated veneer lumber, offering lighter, stronger, and more sustainable alternative to steel structures.

• Innovate UK Grant For Perovskite Solar Technology Research (TaiyangNews) - GraphEnergyTech secures £884,129 Innovate UK grant to develop cost-effective perovskite solar modules using graphene electrodes.

• US Market Grew By Record 50 GW New Solar Capacity In 2024 (Taiyangnews) - US solar market achieves record 50 GW new capacity in 2024, driven by utility-scale installations and supported by Inflation Reduction Act policies.

• France Awards 220 MW Under 9th French Rooftop Solar Auction (TaiyangNews) - France awards 220 MW in 9th rooftop solar auction, with Urbasolar leading and average tariffs declining to €98.2/MWh.

• Solar had a big 2024 (Canary Media) - Florida emerged as a solar powerhouse in 2024, ranking second nationwide for large-scale solar installations despite Republican state leadership's opposition to climate action.

• DOE will prioritize fossil fuels, but it still expects strong growth from storage, solar, Wright says (Utility Dive) - DOE Secretary Wright affirms fossil fuel priority while acknowledging continued growth potential for solar, storage, and electric vehicles.

Transport

EV Infrastructure Expands, Hydrogen Mobility Advances, Toyota Navigates Global Electric Vehicle Market Shifts

• Trump Or No Trump, EV Charging Is Getting Easier Than Ever (CleanTechnica) - EV charging infrastructure continues to expand with innovative payment systems and multi-family solutions, despite political challenges.

• When the power went out, an electric car kept the AC running (Yale Climate Connections) - Electric vehicle provides emergency power and air conditioning during multi-day hurricane-induced power outage, demonstrating vehicle-to-home energy resilience.

• Mobile Fuelling Project | City of Edmonton, Hydrogen (Edmonton) - City launches mobile hydrogen fuelling stations to test low-emissions fleet vehicles through Alberta Zero Emissions Fleet Fuelling project.

• Was Toyota Right To Prioritize Hybrids Over Full Electric Cars? (CleanTechnica) - Toyota's hybrid-first strategy proves effective in US market but risks falling behind in China and Europe's rapid EV transition.

• NRDC Scorecard Highlights Winning State Transportation Policies (NRDC) - State transportation policy scorecard reveals top performers in clean, equitable mobility solutions while highlighting laggards in sustainable transit development.

• ZeroAvia Flexible Fuel Cell Test Shows Expanded UAV & VTOL Capabilities, Opens Up Range of New Applications (ZeroAvia) - Innovative fuel cell technology achieves breakthrough in power density and system simplification for UAV and aerospace applications.

• Premiere of New Toyota C-HR+, bZ4X, & Lexus RZ in Europe (CleanTechnica) - Toyota expands European electric vehicle lineup with new C-HR+, bZ4X, and Lexus RZ models targeting diverse SUV segments.

• MEDIA ADVISORY: Stellantis to Participate in Wolfe Research Virtual Auto Summit (Stellantis) - Automotive company's CFO to participate in Wolfe Research Virtual Auto Summit, providing insights into industry trends.

• The Tesla Put (Heatmap) - Tesla transforms from an electric vehicle company to a conservative culture war symbol amid stock volatility and Elon Musk's political positioning.

• Tesla Cybertruck Hitch Tested To Failure, Could Be A Problem For Heavier Trailers (CleanTechnica) - Tesla Cybertruck's hitch fails under extreme stress tests, raising concerns about trailer towing safety at maximum load ratings.