Partnerships for Resilient Sustainability Work

How do you advance your sustainability work despite hostility or indifference from the federal government? One powerful strategy is leveraging partner networks.

EV charging partnership network Ionna announced it is going ahead with its ambitious expansion plans for 30,000 electric vehicle charging bays around the U.S. by 2030. This despite federal action last week suspending billions of dollars in funding to support EV network expansion. 1,000 Ionna facilities, some with a retro service-station style aesthetic they'll call Rechargeries, are planned for this year.

The network is a partnership of BMW, General Motors, Honda, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, and Toyota. It's making use of Amazon for AI "just walk out" retail tech and a network of highway locations from a company called Sheetz.

I think this approach aligns with the Permaculture concept of 'Function Stacking,' which includes asking, "How can this work support multiple goals? And how can it become more valuable by connecting to other initiatives?" Partnership-centric strategies like Ionna’s exemplify that to me.

Perhaps such thinking can open up new opportunities in your work.

And now we offer you the best updates from around the green tech and sustainability world today. Email subscribers get 3 just for you.

-Marshall Kirkpatrick

Earth Catalyst: We provide thought leadership support systems and bespoke consulting for green tech and sustainability organizations.

 

Today and every day, our system scans over 1,000 green tech and sustainability organizations for updates. Below, you'll find:

• A Visual of the Day

• A digest-style Table of Contents for 227 selected updates from around the green tech and sustainability world

• (If you subscribe by email) 3 personalized selections just for you and your work

Did a friend forward you this newsletter? Welcome! You can subscribe here and get your own personal recommendations each day.

Visual of the Day

Power Pole to Street Charger

This power pole in Sydney, Australia, has been upgraded with an EV charger, providing easy charging access for drivers who park on the street. The photo shows one of 50 chargers installed by Intellihub on existing utility poles, removing a major barrier to EV adoption by enabling people without garages or driveways to charge their vehicles.

Today's Updates

Table of Contents

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  •  Agriculture (14 stories) - Alternative proteins in Germany, methane-reducing rice and cattle feed innovations, EU dairy sector reforms, plus advances in African agriculture and agrivoltaic systems

  •  Carbon (12 stories) - NFL Super Bowl emissions scrutinized while Everest Carbon debuts ERW sensor; studies confirm 1.5°C threshold breach as Caribbean sargassum project and Southeast Asian peatlands offer sequestration solutions

  •  Circular (7 stories) - Von Wong's e-waste art, toxic rug exposé, German EV battery recycling expansion, Floreon's enhanced PLA, battery storage recycling surge, São Paulo waste ops, and bioplastic adhesive breakthroughs

  •  Ecosystems (11 stories) - Global wildlife trafficking crackdown spans 138 nations as ecosystems face mounting pressures from Antarctic ice melt, European eel collapse, bee population crashes, and Australian bushfire aftermath

  •  Efficiency (15 stories) - DeepSeek, Salesforce launch AI efficiency metrics as BlocPower exits Ithaca project; Mesocore, Nido advance heat pump solutions; Cambridge showcases all-electric renovation

  •  Finance (12 stories) - Battery costs plunge below $100/MWh as Google, IKEA, ContourGlobal and Juniper Green secure major green investments, while Equinor retreats from renewables and US withdraws from Green Climate Fund

  •  Grid (19 stories) - Baltic states complete EU grid switch; Texas adds record battery/solar capacity; global utilities embrace AI and digital transformation while Australia, Brazil face rising infrastructure costs

  •  Indigenous (5 stories) - Sherpa protests over Everest helicopter tourism, Arctic heritage preservation, Amazon debt swap concerns, and Indigenous curriculum integration shape community responses

  •  Industry (21 stories) - Executive shifts at RayGen, ChargeFox, and Shell; Texas A&M nuclear deals; Norwegian battery plant cancellation; China's solar exports surge; UK green ammonia terminals approved

  •  Policy (66 stories) - Trump's clean energy funding freeze impacts EV and battery projects, while China reduces renewable subsidies after hitting targets; UN climate deadline missed by major nations as only UK pledges 1.5°C-aligned cuts

  •  Renewables (22 stories) - GiveSolar and Habitat for Humanity expand solar access, Masdar plans $6B solar-battery megaproject, Microquanta breaks perovskite efficiency record, while Codrington wind farm faces closure and Sharp exits European market

  •  Transport (23 stories) - Global EV landscape shifts as BYD outpaces Tesla, Michigan's $110M charger funding wavers, Norway hits 97% EV share, while Fastned expands to 346 stations and Proton, Ilika advance amid mixed US-EU market signals

  
  
  
  

   Agriculture

  Alternative proteins in Germany, methane-reducing rice and cattle feed innovations, EU dairy sector reforms, plus advances in African agriculture and agrivoltaic systems

  
  

  • The economic potential of alternative proteins (SYSTEMIQ) - German alternative protein sector could boost economy by €65 billion and create 250,000 jobs by 2045 with proper investment and policy support.

  • A rice paddy that’s way less gassy (Grist) - Scientists develop new rice variety reducing methane emissions by 70% through crossbreeding and fumarate reduction.

  • Bovine Methane Emissions Solution Spearheaded By US Firm (CleanTechnica) - Nevada startup CH4 Global launches seaweed-based feed supplement in Australia that reduces cattle methane emissions by up to 90% through large-scale cultivation of Asparagopsis seaweed.

  • Environmental Defense Fund, Danone, and Bel Group Call on EU to Act on Methane Emissions in Dairy Sector (EDF) - Major food companies Danone and Bel Group join Environmental Defense Fund urging EU Commission to prioritize methane reduction in dairy sector through policy and financial support.

  • High-yielding rice that greatly reduces methane emissions has been developed at SLU (SLU) - Swedish researchers develop high-yielding rice variety reducing methane emissions by 70% through traditional breeding methods targeting root chemical compounds.

  • La Via Campesina Delegation Visited Palestine in December 2024: Notes from their Daily Diaries [Part – 3] (Via Campesina) - European farmers' delegation documents Palestinian farmers' struggles with water access restrictions, land confiscation, and settler violence in Jordan Valley during December 2024 visit.

  • The disappearing savannas: Is West Africa trading soil health for farmland? (CGIAR) - West African savanna conversion to forests shows 794% increase in soil organic matter, while agricultural conversion threatens soil health.

  • Uganda community group restores shea groves and livelihoods (Mongabay) - Women-led cooperative in Uganda's Pader district restores 500 hectares of shea parkland while creating sustainable livelihoods through agroforestry and Indigenous practices.

  • Why the price of your favorite chocolate will continue to rise (The Conversation) - Global cocoa prices hit record highs as increasing aridity and climate change threaten production in major growing regions of West Africa and Brazil.

  • Land van Ons-markten (Land van Ons) - Dutch sustainable farming cooperative announces 2025 market schedule featuring local products and sustainable agriculture demonstrations across Netherlands.

  • BBEST Project train Kinshasa vegetable farmers on organic fertilizer production (CGIAR) - Kinshasa vegetable farmers receive training in organic fertilizer production using Black Soldier Fly residue through IITA-BBEST project.

  • ClimateAi appoints Will Kletter as Chief Operating Officer (ClimateAi) - AI climate resilience platform promotes Will Kletter to COO to expand climate adaptation services for agriculture and food industries.

  • IITA and partners launch AfPBA CRISPR Class III Training to empower Africa’s Crop Improvement Scientists (CGIAR) - IITA launches third CRISPR training program in Kenya to equip African scientists with advanced crop gene editing skills for improving food security.

  • Trinasolar US Empowers Poultry Farmers with Solar + Storage Solutions at the 2025 International Production and Processing Expo (TaiyangNews) - Trinasolar US showcases solar and battery storage solutions for poultry farmers at 2025 IPPE, releasing white paper on agrivoltaic systems for agricultural operations.

  
  

   Carbon

  NFL Super Bowl emissions scrutinized while Everest Carbon debuts ERW sensor; studies confirm 1.5°C threshold breach as Caribbean sargassum project and Southeast Asian peatlands offer sequestration solutions

  
  

  • It’s Super Bowl Weekend — Yay! But What Are Sports Doing About Mega-Event Emissions? (CleanTechnica) - Super Bowl mega-events generate massive carbon emissions while NFL's environmental initiatives fall short of meaningful decarbonization efforts.

  • WANTED: Founding Funders for Sargassum Sinking Innovation (Climate Cleanup) - Organization seeks founding funders for Caribbean pilot project to study carbon sequestration effects of sinking sargassum seaweed.

  • A clips-show experiment (Volts) - Clean energy podcast releases January highlights compilation episode featuring discussions on attention economy and thermal networks.

  • China's Disastrous Summer Floods Linked to Unusually Warm Spring in Tibet (Yale E360) - Unusually warm spring temperatures in Tibet directly linked to catastrophic summer flooding in southern China that killed dozens and displaced thousands.

  • Earth is already shooting through the 1.5°C global warming limit, two major studies show (The Conversation) - Two major studies indicate Earth has already crossed the critical 1.5°C warming threshold, suggesting long-term breach of Paris Agreement targets.

  • Interview With CDR Policy Expert Sebastian Manhart (CleanTechnica) - Carbon removal policy expert Sebastian Manhart discusses rapid evolution of CDR legislation, highlighting need for global scaling and increased demand through market mechanisms.

  • Interview With Everest Carbon Founder Pascal Michel (CleanTechnica) - Everest Carbon founder develops first live sensor for measuring enhanced rock weathering carbon removal, aiming to scale verification of carbon credits through automated field monitoring.

  • Nanoscale tin catalyst discovery paves the way for sustainable CO2 conversion (ScienceDaily) - University of Nottingham researchers develop self-optimizing tin nanoparticle catalyst that improves CO2 conversion to formate during continuous operation.

  • Paris Agreement’s 1.5C Threshold Breach Could Come ‘Earlier Than Expected’, Scientists Warn (Earth.org) - Two new studies suggest Earth has entered 20-year period above Paris Agreement's 1.5C warming threshold, with January 2025 setting new temperature records.

  • Peatlands and mangroves key to reducing carbon emissions in Southeast Asia (ScienceDaily) - Southeast Asian peatlands and mangroves could reduce regional land-use carbon emissions by 50% despite occupying only 5% of terrestrial land, new study finds.

  • The striking parallels of AI and carbon removal (Climeworks) - AI and carbon removal technologies show parallel evolution paths as transformative forces in digital and environmental sectors, both shifting from niche technologies to mainstream economic drivers.

  • Why Do Team Sports Contribute More Climate Emissions Than Individual Sports? (CleanTechnica) - Team sports generate higher carbon emissions than individual sports due to extensive air travel and large-scale events, with professional leagues contributing approximately 350 million tons of CO2e annually.

  
  

   Circular

  Von Wong's e-waste art, toxic rug exposé, German EV battery recycling expansion, Floreon's enhanced PLA, battery storage recycling surge, São Paulo waste ops, and bioplastic adhesive breakthroughs

  
  

  • A Conversation with Benjamin Von Wong (Bluedot Living) - Visual artist Benjamin Von Wong creates massive art installations from e-waste and plastic to raise awareness about environmental issues through corporate and nonprofit collaborations.

  • Ask Mom Detective: Are Polyester and Polypropylene Rugs a Safe Choice for My Family? (Moms Clean Air Force) - Polyester and polypropylene rugs release toxic VOCs, shed microplastics, and contain harmful chemical treatments, making them unsafe choices for families despite "nontoxic" marketing claims.

  • Catching Up with Our Team in Magdeburg (Li-Cycle) - German battery recycling facility expands operations with exclusive contracts from four major European EV manufacturers for lithium-ion battery material processing.

  • Floreon is Featured in The Engineer Magazine – Focussing on Bioplastic Innovation (The Engineer) - UK bioplastics firm Floreon showcases innovative plant-based polymer technology that enhances PLA for durable engineering applications while maintaining sustainability.

  • Li-Cycle Provides Recycling Solutions to Growing Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Market, Including Supporting Artificial Intelligence Technologies in the U.S. (Li-Cycle) - Battery recycling company reports 33% increase in battery energy storage system recycling volume to 100 MWh in 2024, supporting AI-driven grid demands and domestic material recovery.

  • COLETA DE 12 MIL TONELADAS DE LIXO TODOS OS DIAS (SP Gov News) - São Paulo's municipal waste collection system processes 12,000 tons daily with 10,000 workers and 1,000 trucks, making it one of world's largest urban waste operations.

  • How Well Do Adhesives Work with Floreon Bioplastics? Find Out in Our Latest Tests! (Floreon) - Tests reveal bioplastic materials achieve comparable adhesive bonding strength to traditional plastics when using hybrid polymer and acrylic adhesives.

  
  

   Ecosystems

  Global wildlife trafficking crackdown spans 138 nations as ecosystems face mounting pressures from Antarctic ice melt, European eel collapse, bee population crashes, and Australian bushfire aftermath

  
  

  • Behind the Lens: Spotlight on Greenpeace photographers (Greenpeace) - Veteran photographer Christian Åslund showcases 25 years of environmental photography documenting climate change, overfishing, and environmental activism across global locations.

  • Charlotte O’Dwyer became the face of black summer’s terrible toll. Five years after the fires her family looks back (The Guardian) - Charlotte O'Dwyer's story of losing her firefighter father in Australia's devastating 2019-20 black summer bushfires highlights the ongoing personal toll five years after fires killed 33, destroyed 3,000 homes and displaced 3 billion animals.

  • Darfur’s women refugees lead reforestation of war-blighted Sudan–Chad borderland (Mongabay) - Darfur refugee women lead tree-planting initiative in Chad border camp to combat deforestation and empower communities amid ongoing conflict.

  • Dear Jellyfish, I’m Sorry for the War We Waged (Atmos) - South Korean autonomous robot system JEROS designed to destroy jellyfish blooms raises concerns about ecological impact and parallels to marginalization.

  • Guest post: How atmospheric rivers are bringing rain to West Antarctica (Carbon Brief) - Atmospheric rivers are delivering unprecedented rainfall to West Antarctica's ice shelves in sub-zero temperatures, potentially impacting critical glacier stability.

  • Nearly 20,000 animals seized in global wildlife trafficking crackdown (Mongabay) - Global police operation seizes nearly 20,000 threatened animals and arrests 365 suspects in 138-country wildlife trafficking crackdown.

  • STATE OF THE OCEAN – Briefing for Journalists (REVOLVE) - Marine experts to brief journalists on ocean climate crisis as EU waters hit record temperatures and 76% of marine habitats face unfavorable status.

  • Study finds population crash for critically endangered European eel in Spain’s Ebro Delta (Mongabay) - European eel population crashes over 80% in Spain's Ebro Delta, driven by overfishing and invasive predators, threatening critical ecosystem role.

  • Why are bees important? (Environment America) - Bees, responsible for pollinating one-third of human food supply and 75% of fruit crops, face critical threats from pesticides and habitat loss as American bumblebee populations decline 90%.

  • Opting for Coexistence: Some Wisconsin Landowners Learn To Live With Beavers (Inside Climate News) - Wisconsin landowner installs innovative pond leveler device to coexist with beavers rather than remove them, highlighting growing trend toward non-lethal beaver management solutions.

  • Iced out? Research on the Great Lakes goes ahead amid funding chaos. (Grist) - Ice fishing anglers help collect crucial ice thickness data for Great Lakes research amid uncertain federal funding and climate change concerns.

  
  

   Efficiency

  DeepSeek, Salesforce launch AI efficiency metrics as BlocPower exits Ithaca project; Mesocore, Nido advance heat pump solutions; Cambridge showcases all-electric renovation

  
  

  • 🌎 DeepSeek hype vs. the hyperscalers #232 (CTVC) - DeepSeek's energy-efficient AI model challenges power demand assumptions, impacting data center electricity projections and market reactions.

  • BlocPower promised to help electrify Ithaca. Now it has ended its support. (Grist) - BlocPower abandons Ithaca's building electrification program after completing only 10 of 6,000 promised conversions, marking retreat from multiple city partnerships.

  • Tiny House From Mesocore Comes Complete With Solar, A Battery, & A Heat Pump (CleanTechnica) - Florida-based Mesocore launches solar-powered, battery-equipped tiny house ADU with heat pump for $120,000, targeting affordable sustainable housing market.

  • 'AI Energy Score': Salesforce launches new benchmark for AI energy efficiency (BusinessGreen) - Salesforce and tech partners launch 'AI Energy Score' benchmark system to rate energy efficiency of over 200 AI models.

  • Heat Pump Software Startup Nido Raises €5 Million (ESGToday) - Spanish startup Nido raises €5M seed funding to expand AI-powered heat pump installation software platform aimed at accelerating residential clean heating transition.

  • How a Cambridge Triple-Decker Became a Model for Affordable, Sustainable Living (Bluedot Living) - Cambridge triple-decker renovation transforms fire-damaged building into all-electric, energy-efficient affordable housing model with advanced insulation and ventilation systems.

  • New autonomous system to monitor Arctic's melting ice (ScienceDaily) - Florida Atlantic University develops autonomous vessel system combining drones and underwater vehicles to continuously monitor Arctic ice melt using renewable energy.

  • Salesforce, Partners Launch Energy Ratings for AI Models (ESGToday) - Salesforce and partners launch AI Energy Score system to rate and compare energy consumption of AI models, aiming to promote transparency and efficiency in AI development.

  • TUM Examines 13 Residential Heating Sources & Finds A Winner — Heat Pumps (CleanTechnica) - Technical University of Munich study evaluates 13 residential heating systems, concluding air-source heat pumps offer best combination of environmental impact and cost efficiency.

  • 🌎 DeepSeek hype vs. the hyperscalers #232 (CTVC) - Chinese AI startup DeepSeek's energy-efficient R1 model challenges power demand assumptions for data centers, potentially impacting utility planning and clean energy infrastructure investments.

  • Chasing Stars in Neon Skies: Light Pollution and Its Impacts (Earth.org) - Global light pollution doubles every eight years, disrupting ecosystems, human health, and astronomical observations while contributing to $50 billion in wasted energy costs annually.

  • Cybrid’s RayBo Film: Mitigating Module Level UVID (Taiyangnews) - Cybrid's RayBo light conversion film demonstrates enhanced UV protection and power gains for TOPCon and HJT solar modules through UV-to-visible light conversion technology.

  • O&M Innovation in the Power Sector: The Latest Tools Redefining Asset Optimization (POWER Magazine) - Power sector embraces digital O&M innovations including AI, IoT sensors, and digital twins to optimize aging infrastructure and manage growing renewable integration challenges.

  • Teddy Roosevelt is getting a climate-friendly presidential library (Yale Climate Connections) - North Dakota's new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library incorporates multiple sustainable features including geothermal wells, solar panels, and water recycling systems to honor the conservation president's legacy.

  • The Most Efficient HVAC Systems: A Complete Guide for 2025 (Neeeco) - Air-source heat pumps emerge as 2025's most energy-efficient HVAC solution, offering up to 65% energy savings and $16,000 in Mass Save rebates for Massachusetts residents.

  
  

   Finance

  Battery costs plunge below $100/MWh as Google, IKEA, ContourGlobal and Juniper Green secure major green investments, while Equinor retreats from renewables and US withdraws from Green Climate Fund

  
  

  • Battery costs plunge, solar and wind undercut new coal and gas “in almost every market” (RenewEconomy) - Battery storage costs drop below $100/MWh in 2025 as solar and wind prices continue to undercut fossil fuels globally, driven by Chinese manufacturing.

  • ESG Today: Week in Review (ESG Today) - Major companies announce sustainability initiatives including Google's $100M carbon removal investment, IKEA's supplier clean energy program, and EU's proposed taxonomy reporting simplification.

  • After US cuts cash, Green Climate Fund head urges others to step up (Climate Change News) - US cancels $4 billion Green Climate Fund pledge, prompting UN fund chief to urge other nations to maintain climate finance commitments.

  • Canada OKs ‘Massive’ $20 Billion Loan for Trans-Mountain Pipeline (DeSmog) - Canada approves $20 billion government loan for Trans Mountain pipeline despite environmental concerns and financial risks to taxpayers.

  • ContourGlobal Raises €1 Billion in Green Bonds to Accelerate Energy Transition (TaiyangNews) - ContourGlobal raises €1 billion in oversubscribed green bonds to fund renewable energy projects and battery storage, aiming to become predominantly renewable IPP by 2030.

  • Equinor Slashes Energy Transition Investment Plans (ESGToday) - Norwegian energy giant Equinor halves renewable energy investments and drops 2030 clean energy targets, citing market conditions and shareholder value focus.

  • India’s Juniper Green Energy Raises $1 Billion To Advance RE Portfolio (TaiyangNews) - Indian renewable energy firm Juniper Green Energy secures $1 billion debt financing from major banks to expand wind-solar hybrid projects and operational capacity.

  • Octopus Energy launches renewable investment platform in UK (Renewable Energy World) - Octopus Energy launches UK's first regulated renewable energy investment platform allowing individuals to invest in wind projects from £25.

  • Second annual report analyzes major public pensions’ responses to the climate crisis in proxy voting (Stand.earth) - New report reveals major U.S. public pension funds, managing $3.8 trillion in assets, show mixed performance on climate-related proxy voting with only one fund receiving top grade.

  • UK insurers paid out record £585m last year as climate breakdown intensifies (The Guardian) - UK insurers paid record £585m in weather-related claims during 2024 as climate-driven storms and flooding intensify, driving 16% rise in home insurance premiums.

  • Achilles Launches New Supply Chain Sustainability Reporting Solution (ESGToday) - Achilles launches Analytics tool for companies to track and report supply chain sustainability metrics, enabling compliance with global ESG regulations.

  • HSBC Appoints Julian Wentzel as New Chief Sustainability Officer (ESGToday) - HSBC names Julian Wentzel as Group Chief Sustainability Officer, replacing interim position holder amid bank's executive restructuring and net-zero transition focus.

  
  

   Grid

  Baltic states complete EU grid switch; Texas adds record battery/solar capacity; global utilities embrace AI and digital transformation while Australia, Brazil face rising infrastructure costs

  
  

  • “Freedom from blackmail:” Baltic states cut their link to Russia grid in dramatic switch to EU network (RenewEconomy) - Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania complete historic switch from Russian power grid to EU network, physically cutting cross-border transmission lines to end Soviet-era energy ties.

  • Déjà vu on transmission project cost blowouts as price of EnergyConnect doubles (RenewEconomy) - Australia's EnergyConnect transmission project cost doubles to $4.1 billion as NSW section faces major delays and contract renegotiations.

  • Flexible exports and solar soaks: Network shoots for “flat bills” as electrification era takes off (RenewEconomy) - Australian utility AusNet seeks $3.5 billion to upgrade grid for electrification surge while promising flat customer bills through 2031.

  • How much does it cost to increase supply? (Energy Central) - Brazil's electricity costs set to rise due to heavy investment needs in non-firm renewable energy backup systems and grid infrastructure.

  • A New Paradigm for Power Grid Operation (POWER Magazine) - Power grid stability shifting from mechanical inertia to electronic controls as renewables integration demands new approaches to grid management.

  • AEMO reports surge in grid registrations for wind, solar and battery projects (RenewEconomy) - Australian grid registrations for renewable energy projects doubled in past 6 months to 5.2GW, with solar leading new approvals at 831MW.

  • Brown coal hits new low in Victoria as wind and battery records tumble and renewables peak at 95.2 pct (RenewEconomy) - Victoria's brown coal generation hits historic low averaging under 2GW while wind, battery storage and renewables set multiple records reaching 95.2% peak.

  • Italy Set to Relaunch Nuclear Program in Efforts to Decarbonize Energy Mix (Earth.org) - Italy initiates policy process to restart nuclear program, focusing on both traditional reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs) to reduce emissions and enhance EU energy security.

  • More Solar and Battery Storage Were Added to Texas’ Grid Than Any Other Power Source Last Year (InsideClimateNews) - Texas grid added record 4,374 megawatts of battery storage and 9,700 megawatts of solar capacity in 2024, surpassing all other power sources.

  • Recent cold snap results in fourth-largest withdrawal from underground natural gas storage (EIA) - Record cold temperatures across US trigger fourth-largest weekly natural gas storage withdrawal of 321 billion cubic feet, dropping inventories 4% below five-year average.

  • Software, Hardware, Innovation All Needed to Upgrade the Power Grid (Power Magazine) - Grid reliability improvements require integrated software, hardware, and innovative technologies for monitoring, maintenance, and control systems, according to industry experts.

  • Southern California Edison investigates ties to California’s Eaton, Hurst wildfires (Utility Dive) - Southern California Edison investigates potential equipment links to two Los Angeles wildfires, with stronger evidence connecting to Hurst fire than larger Eaton blaze.

  • The POWER Interview: Enhancing Reliability of the U.S. Power System (POWER Magazine) - Engineering experts outline key strategies for enhancing U.S. power grid reliability through maintenance, monitoring systems, and proactive equipment replacement.

  • Three trends shaping power markets in 2025 (Latitude Media) - AI-driven electricity demand growth, record renewable installations, and power curtailment emerge as key trends shaping 2025 power markets, with DeepSeek's efficient AI model adding uncertainty.

  • Trina Storage Continues Streak on BNEF Tier 1 Energy Storage Manufacturer List into 2025 Q1 (TaiyangNews) - Trina Storage maintains position on Bloomberg's Q1 2025 Tier 1 Energy Storage Manufacturer List for fifth consecutive quarter, having shipped 7.5 GWh of battery systems globally.

  • Using energy storage to bridge gaps in gas-electric coordination (Utility Dive) - Energy storage systems offer solution to gas-electric coordination challenges by providing rapid response capabilities and reducing reliance on constrained fuel supplies during extreme weather events.

  • Digital transformation in utilities: From smart metering to integrated systems (Utility Dive) - Utilities sector embraces comprehensive digital transformation from smart metering to integrated network systems, requiring specialized industrial ethernet devices and compliance standards.

  • The POWER Interview: Emerson Exec Discusses Grid Enhancements (POWER Magazine) - Emerson executive discusses how predictive technologies, automated maintenance, and edge computing can enhance power grid reliability and plant operations.

  • The POWER Interview: Using Data, Device Models, and More to Support the Grid (POWER Magazine) - Actalent engineer details how data alignment, AI, and CIM integration are crucial for improving power grid reliability and outage prevention.

  
  

   Indigenous

  Sherpa protests over Everest helicopter tourism, Arctic heritage preservation, Amazon debt swap concerns, and Indigenous curriculum integration shape community responses

  
  

  • February Teach Climate Tips (Climate Generation) - Educators are urged to integrate climate change education and Indigenous knowledge into curricula to inspire student action.

  • ‘Helicopter tourism’ in the Himalayas affecting Sherpas, wildlife (Mongabay) - Surge in helicopter tourism at Mount Everest disrupts local Sherpa communities and wildlife, with 5,600 flights recorded in 2024 causing noise pollution and ecosystem disturbance.

  • ‘Most at risk on the planet’: Polar heritage sites are slipping into the sea but can one island live forever online? (The Guardian) - Arctic heritage sites on Canada's Qikiqtaruk island face destruction from climate-driven floods and permafrost thaw as scientists race to digitally preserve Indigenous and whaling history.

  • Ecuador’s next debt-for-nature deal falls short of Indigenous involvement (Mongabay) - Ecuador's $460 million Amazon debt-for-nature swap faces criticism from Indigenous leaders over lack of meaningful consultation and participation in conservation planning.

  • New Breaking Green Podcast: Leonard Peltier’s Road to Clemency with Michael Kuzma (Breaking Green Podcast) - Attorney Michael Kuzma discusses Leonard Peltier's 50-year imprisonment, FBI document suppression, and recent clemency decision by President Biden.

  
  

   Industry

  Executive shifts at RayGen, ChargeFox, and Shell; Texas A&M nuclear deals; Norwegian battery plant cancellation; China's solar exports surge; UK green ammonia terminals approved

  
  

  • Grid Connections 2025: Who’s going where in Australia’s energy transition (RenewEconomy) - Major leadership changes sweep Australian energy sector as key companies including RayGen, ChargeFox, and Shell announce executive appointments and departures for 2025.

  • Reducing Environmental Footprints Through Efficient Tailings Pond Practices (KETOS) - Mining industry adopts innovative tailings pond management techniques including dry stacking and real-time monitoring to reduce environmental impact and water contamination risks.

  • Texas A&M System Goes Nuclear (EnergyNews) - Texas A&M University System offers land to four nuclear reactor companies to build small modular reactors for AI data centers and grid power near campus.

  • Georgia battery factory canceled (Canary Media) - Norwegian battery company cancels planned $2.6B Georgia factory citing higher interest rates, falling battery prices and leadership changes.

  • 2024 China Solar Module Exports Totaled 236 GW: InfoLink Consulting (TaiyangNews) - China's solar module exports grew 13% to reach 236 GW in 2024, with Brazil, Netherlands, India, Saudi Arabia, and Spain accounting for 42% of global market.

  • Ad Firms Make Oil Companies Look Green. Here’s Six Ways They Greenwash Themselves. (DeSmog) - Major advertising firms employ six key greenwashing tactics to portray themselves as climate champions while continuing lucrative work for fossil fuel clients.

  • Ammonia Ports | Immingham UK, Wilhelmshaven Germany (Energy Central) - UK government approves Air Products' plan to build green ammonia import terminal in Immingham to convert Saudi-produced ammonia into hydrogen.

  • BBC | Plans approved for green energy terminal in Immingham (BBC) - North Lincolnshire approves new green hydrogen terminal at Port of Immingham for importing ammonia and converting it to hydrogen for UK distribution.

  • DMEGC Solar Achieves A Rating in PV ModuleTech Bankability Ratings (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar manufacturer DMEGC Solar achieves 'A' rating in PV ModuleTech Bankability due to stable finances and 21GW production capacity.

  • February Newsletter 2025 (Kyoto Fusioneering) - Japanese fusion energy company releases February 2025 newsletter highlighting company updates and industry developments.

  • Hysata and ACWA Power sign game-changing deal to unlock green hydrogen in Saudi Arabia (EnergyCentral) - Australian firm Hysata partners with ACWA Power to deploy high-efficiency electrolysers for Saudi Arabia's green hydrogen production, targeting 600 tonnes daily by 2026.

  • LONGi maintains AAA ranking in Q4 2024 PV ModuleTech Bankability Ratings (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar manufacturer LONGi maintains top-tier AAA bankability rating for 20th consecutive quarter, showcasing industry leadership with new high-efficiency PV modules reaching 24.8% efficiency.

  • Mining dredges return to Amazon River’s main tributary, months after crackdown (Mongabay) - Illegal gold mining dredges return to Brazil's Madeira River just five months after federal crackdown, with 130 new dredges detected between January 10-22.

  • Sitetracker Closes 2024 with Record Growth and a Bold Vision for Full Asset Lifecycle Management (Sitetracker) - Infrastructure asset management platform reports record customer growth and enhanced capabilities for renewable energy and construction management in 2024, plans AI and operations focus for 2025.

  • Tata Power Commissions 4.3 GW Solar Cell & Module Factory (TaiyangNews) - Tata Power launches India's largest single-location 4.3 GW solar cell and module factory in Tamil Nadu, with 80% women workforce.

  • Will it or won’t it? South Australia hedges bets on world-leading green hydrogen plan (RenewEconomy) - South Australia's $600M green hydrogen project faces uncertainty as government hesitates over investment due to GFG Alliance's financial concerns.

  • FM Nirmala Announces Budget (Ampin Energy) - India's 2025-26 Union Budget prioritizes waste-to-wealth initiatives for lithium battery supply chain and renewable energy growth.

  • Turbine MRO Best Practices: Expert Guide to Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (POWER Magazine) - Advanced turbine maintenance technologies including AI, 3D scanning, and robotic inspection systems revolutionize power plant MRO practices while extending equipment lifespans.

  • Energy UK members to support more than 1,200 apprenticeships in 2025 (BusinessGreen) - Major UK energy companies including National Grid and Octopus Energy pledge over 1,200 clean energy apprenticeships for 2025.

  • JA Solar's DeepBlue 4.0 Pro Energizes Shams Power's PV Project at Coca-Cola Faisalabad (TaiyangNews) - JA Solar's DeepBlue 4.0 Pro modules power new 2.5MW solar installation at Coca-Cola's Faisalabad facility in Pakistan, designed for harsh climate conditions.

  • Texan by Nature Releases 2024 TxN 20 Industry Report (Texan by Nature) - Texas conservation nonprofit releases 2024 industry report showing 86% of top companies investing in sustainable operations, with majority including sustainability in workforce training.

  
  

   Policy

  Trump's clean energy funding freeze impacts EV and battery projects, while China reduces renewable subsidies after hitting targets; UN climate deadline missed by major nations as only UK pledges 1.5°C-aligned cuts

  
  

  • EVs tackle the cold (Canary Media) - President Trump’s federal funding freeze disrupts clean energy investments, impacting electric vehicle and battery manufacturing projects.

  • Southeast feels the brunt of Trump’s clean energy cuts (Canary Media) - President Trump's clean energy funding cuts hit Republican-led districts hardest, potentially slowing Texas' solar and battery growth but not halting Tennessee's EV charger plans.

  • Find out what happened in disaster risk reduction in Europe and Central Asia (UNDRR) - The 2024 Europe and Central Asia Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction proceedings highlight key discussions and commitments for future resilience efforts.

  • “Protect What We Love”: At the Katrina Super Bowl, the First Ever Climate Ad Plea for Immediate Action (Moms Clean Air Force) - First-ever climate action Super Bowl ad by Science Moms debuts in New Orleans, linking Katrina anniversary with urgent climate crisis messaging.

  • After the Feds Kept Grizzlies on the Endangered Species List Last Month, State Leaders Try to Remove Them (Inside Climate News) - State leaders from Idaho, Montana and Wyoming push to remove grizzly bears from endangered species list after federal decision to maintain protections, highlighting state-federal tensions over wildlife management.

  • Air pollution causing 1,100 cases a year of main form of lung cancer in UK (The Guardian) - UK air pollution linked to 1,100 new cases of adenocarcinoma lung cancer annually, with higher rates than US and Canada.

  • Australia formally misses UN climate deadline, only one country makes pledge close to 1.5°C (RenewEconomy) - Australia misses UN climate deadline as only UK among six submitting nations pledges emissions cuts close to 1.5°C target.

  • China to roll back wind and solar energy subsidies after hitting targets six years early (RenewEconomy) - China scales back renewable energy subsidies after reaching 2030 solar and wind capacity targets six years ahead of schedule.

  • How fossil fuel cash is powering Peter Dutton’s anti-climate election push (RenewEconomy) - Coalition receives triple Labor's fossil fuel donations ($3M vs $832K) in 2023-24 as Peter Dutton campaigns against climate action.

  • Just say no to Oiligarchs (198methods.org) - National climate groups organize Monday call to fight fossil fuel tax subsidies and corporate capture of government as Trump's appointees threaten climate action.

  • Keir Starmer urged to resist pressure to permit Rosebank North Sea oilfield (The Guardian) - Climate experts warn Labour leader Keir Starmer against approving Rosebank North Sea oilfield development, citing global climate impact and investment concerns.

  • Nimbys. Naysayers. Traitors. Children take note, why learn oracy when insults will do? | Catherine Bennett (The Guardian) - Labour leader Keir Starmer's shift to aggressive anti-environmental rhetoric and frequent use of "nimby" insults marks departure from previous measured tone on infrastructure projects.

  • Over 100 Daily Child Deaths Linked to Air Pollution in East Asia, Pacific: UNICEF (Earth.org) - UNICEF reports over 100 children under five die daily from air pollution in East Asia-Pacific region, with 500 million children exposed to unsafe pollution levels.

  • Podcast Drag Queen Pattie Gonia: Bringing Joy to Climate Action - Trailer (Climate Home News) - Environmental activist drag queen Pattie Gonia advocates for diversity and inclusivity in climate action through creative outdoor performances and advocacy.

  • Promoting green growth does not make you an ‘eco-nutter’. It’s the only way forward (The Guardian) - China's dominance in renewable tech and economic growth through "new three" industries challenges Western notion that climate action hinders economic development.

  • These Flooded Black Alabamians Say Biden, Buttigieg Failed Them. Now They Ask: Where Will Trump Stand? (Inside Climate News) - Black Alabama community leaders say Biden administration failed to deliver promised flood relief after Highway 84 expansion, now seek answers from Trump administration.

  • TNC Exposed as Major Logging Promoter (The Wildlife News) - Nature Conservancy exposed for promoting commercial logging under guise of forest restoration while partnering with timber industry and lobbying governments.

  • Minneapolis utility agreements set first emission targets (Canary Media) - Minneapolis utility agreements with Xcel Energy and CenterPoint set first-ever emission reduction targets, though city officials say targets don't fully align with local climate goals.

  • Relief Continues One Month After LA Wildfires (Tzu Chi USA) - Buddhist foundation provides $2.5M in aid and services to 4,247 Los Angeles wildfire survivors one month after devastating Palisades and Eaton fires.

  • ‘Engine of inequality’: delegates discuss AI’s global impact at Paris summit (The Guardian) - Global AI summit in Paris addresses technology's environmental impact and inequality concerns, with French AI envoy warning of unsustainable energy consumption.

  • A lot's gonna change (Keep Cool) - Trump administration's energy policy shifts signal major changes across nuclear, fossil fuels, and clean energy sectors, including funding freezes and regulatory rollbacks affecting multiple industries.

  • Ad Giant WPP Has Broken International Guidelines on Climate and Human Rights, Charge Campaigners (DeSmog) - Climate groups file OECD complaint against WPP advertising agency for violating climate and human rights guidelines through work with major fossil fuel companies.

  • An explainer for NDCs: The heart of the Paris Agreement (Greenpeace) - UN's Paris Agreement requires nations to submit 2035 climate action plans (NDCs) by February deadline, with most major emitters currently missing targets for 1.5°C warming limit.

  • Analysis: 95% of countries miss UN deadline to submit 2035 climate pledges (Carbon Brief) - Only 10 of 195 Paris Agreement nations submit required 2035 climate pledges by UN deadline, representing 17% of global emissions.

  • Another One Bites the Dust: Judge Dismisses New Jersey’s NGO-Funded Climate Lawsuit in Fiery Opinion (EnergyInDepth) - New Jersey climate lawsuit against energy producers dismissed by judge, citing constitutional limits on state jurisdiction over interstate emissions.

  • Anti-renewable billboard ad pulled under pressure from industry (RenewEconomy) - Anti-renewable billboard near Newcastle removed by oOH!Media after industry pressure over false climate claims.

  • Billions in federal funds still inaccessible, says emergency motion filed in R.I. federal court (Renewable Energy World) - Emergency motion filed in Rhode Island federal court claims billions in federal funds remain inaccessible despite court orders blocking Trump administration's funding freeze.

  • Climate activists fined over protest outside Woodside boss Meg O’Neill’s Perth home (The Guardian) - Three climate activists fined $6,500 total for attempted protest at Woodside Energy CEO's Perth home involving paint and water balloons.

  • Climate half-time report from the VA General Assembly! (CCAN Action Fund) - Virginia General Assembly's midterm session shows mixed climate progress with wins in distributed energy and EV charging but setbacks in solar siting and climate damage accountability.

  • Climate impacts are forcing people from their homes. When, how and why do they have valid refugee claims? (The Conversation) - Legal experts clarify how climate change impacts can qualify people for refugee status under existing international law, despite common misconceptions about 'climate refugees'.

  • Climate+ | Episode 23 | Seyi Fabode @ Utili.City (Energy Central) - Sustainability expert Seyi Fabode discusses urban development strategies for climate adaptation, highlighting Rotterdam's integrated planning and community-focused infrastructure approaches.

  • Clone of Regional Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Arab Region 2024 (UNDRR) - Arab region faces complex disaster risks from climate change, urbanization, and systemic instability, requiring enhanced regional collaboration and innovative risk reduction strategies.

  • Colombia’s COP16 presidency in suspense as minister resigns (Climate Change News) - Colombia's Environment Minister and COP16 President Susana Muhamad resigns amid political crisis but requests to stay until completion of UN biodiversity talks in Rome.

  • Drax is the subsidy show that goes on and on | Nils Pratley (The Guardian) - UK government approves £1.8bn in new subsidies for Drax power plant while halving rates and mandating 100% sustainable wood pellet sourcing.

  • Energy, Climate & Freedom - We're back on track. (Energy Central) - US administration plans to end Net Zero programs and restore market freedoms in energy sector, likely reducing renewable subsidies and consumer incentives.

  • Future Made in Australia bill passes Senate to provide tax credits to green hydrogen and minerals, and boost regions (RenewEconomy) - Australian Senate passes Future Made bill offering tax credits for green hydrogen production and critical minerals processing to boost regional industrialization.

  • Government to halve subsidies for Drax biomass power plant with new 'compromise' contract (BusinessGreen) - UK government announces new contract halving subsidies for Drax biomass power plant while implementing stricter sustainability requirements.

  • High turbulence: What Trump’s first moves mean for clean energy (Latitude Media) - Trump's early presidential actions include clean energy funding freezes, fossil fuel expansion, and new tariffs, signaling major shifts in U.S. energy policy.

  • How to resuscitate 1.5°C by identifying accountable countries (Climate Change News) - Study proposes new "additional carbon accountability" metric to allocate responsibility among nations for reaching 1.5°C target based on historical emissions and capabilities.

  • If FEMA didn’t exist, could states handle the disaster response alone? (The Conversation) - Analysis shows states would struggle to handle disaster response without FEMA's financial aid and coordination, with poorer states most vulnerable to disaster impacts.

  • In Virginia, Democratic Lawmakers Clash With Youngkin Over RGGI Membership, Flood Relief (Inside Climate News) - Virginia Democrats and GOP Gov. Youngkin battle over $102M in carbon market funds for flood relief, with competing budget proposals for RGGI auction proceeds.

  • It’s NDC Deadline Day. Almost Nobody Is Prepared. (Heatmap News) - Only 10 of 195 Paris Agreement nations meet deadline for submitting updated climate plans, representing 83% of global emissions missing.

  • Mayors Across US Urge Congress Not to Repeal Clean Energy Tax Credits (InsideClimateNews) - 133 US mayors urge Congress to protect clean energy tax credits that created 400,000 jobs and $422 billion in investments, warning repeal would harm Republican-led states most.

  • Online algorithms could help save the planet with just a few small tweaks (The Conversation) - Researchers propose YouTube modify its recommendation algorithm to dedicate 2% of suggestions to climate-related content for greater environmental impact.

  • Prioritizing nuclear power and natural gas over renewable energy is a risky move for Ontario’s energy future (The Conversation) - Ontario's energy strategy prioritizing nuclear and gas over renewables faces criticism for high costs, health risks, and climate impacts.

  • Prominent Attorneys to Monitor Oil Tycoon’s Controversial SLAPP Suit Against Greenpeace Amid Major Legal Concerns (Amazon Watch) - Coalition of prominent civil rights attorneys forms monitoring committee to oversee Energy Transfer's controversial SLAPP lawsuit against Greenpeace in North Dakota.

  • Regional Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Arab Region 2024 (UNDRR) - Arab region faces critical climate risks with 0.5°C/decade temperature rise, requiring urgent disaster risk reduction amid water scarcity, institutional challenges, and systemic vulnerabilities.

  • Regulator rejects gas network bid to hike costs, says customer exodus will be slower than forecast (RenewEconomy) - Australian Energy Regulator rejects AusNet's $70 million gas network cost increase request, citing slower-than-claimed customer exodus from gas networks.

  • Renewed Global Violence Puts Pressure on Climate Adaptation (Adaptation Fund) - Research shows climate adaptation projects can succeed in conflict zones through flexible funding and community partnerships.

  • Resources for Job Seekers: February 10 Update (Environmental Protection Network) - EPN updates job board with environmental science and policy positions including roles at Beyond Plastics, EPN, Bergeson & Campbell, and Earthjustice.

  • SOCAN Testimony on SB685 (SOCAN) - Oregon climate group testifies in support of bill requiring utility commission approval for hydrogen projects, citing safety concerns and misleading claims by gas companies.

  • Start der “Generation GreenFaith” in Deutschland: Multiplikator*innen-Programm für Klimagerechtigkeit lädt junge Menschen des Glaubens ein (GreenFaith) - Multi-faith climate justice movement launches 9-month "Generation GreenFaith" program in Germany to train young religious leaders in climate activism and eco-theology.

  • The Silent Threat Beneath Our Feet: How Deregulation Fuels the Spread of Forever Chemicals (The Revelator) - Trump administration's rollback of PFAS regulations threatens drinking water safety as 'forever chemicals' contamination spreads nationwide, impacting vulnerable communities most severely.

  • Trump signs order to bring back plastic straws claiming paper ones ‘explode’ (The Guardian) - Trump signs executive order reversing Biden's single-use plastic ban, claiming paper straws 'explode' while defending continued plastic straw use.

  • Turning off the oil taps could be Canada’s ‘trump card’ in a tariff war (Climate Desk) - Canada considers leveraging oil exports as strategic defense against U.S. tariff threats, experts weigh risks and opportunities.

  • UK halves subsidies for Drax and says it must use 100% sustainable wood (The Guardian) - UK government halves Drax power station subsidies and mandates 100% sustainable wood sourcing while reducing operational capacity, saving consumers £170m annually.

  • Union Budget 2025: A Strategic Push for Solar and Renewable Energy Growth in India’s Clean Energy Transition (AmpIn Energy) - India's 2025 Union Budget prioritizes solar and renewable energy expansion with strategic investments and policy support for clean energy transition.

  • United Kingdom Hands Billions More in Subsidies to Drax for Tree-Burning Bioenergy (NRDC) - UK government extends £2 billion subsidy to Drax for wood-burning power generation while halving production capacity, despite widespread environmental and climate concerns.

  • Urgency missing as nations miss deadline for 2035 climate action plans (Greenpeace) - Major global emitters miss UN deadline for 2035 climate action plans, raising concerns about climate crisis urgency amid record temperatures.

  • US-funded ‘social network’ attacking pesticide critics shuts down after Guardian investigation (The Guardian) - US company v-Fluence shuts down its secret web portal that profiled and tracked environmental health advocates after investigation reveals taxpayer-funded surveillance operation.

  • What public-private-partnership scandals can tell us about wrongdoing in the water industry (The Conversation) - Analysis of UK water industry scandals reveals systemic issues in public-private partnerships prioritizing shareholder profits over infrastructure investment and environmental protection.

  • What Title 24 Means for the Future of Commercial Solar in California (King Energy) - California's Title 24 now requires new commercial buildings to install solar panels and battery storage systems, creating financial opportunities through roof rental models.

  • A new book from WWU's Laurie Trautman and Edward Alden (WWU) - Laurie Trautman and Edward Alden's new book explores the impact of COVID-19 on global border policies and their future implications.

  • Farmers ‘very worried’ as US pesticide firms push to bar cancer diagnoses lawsuits (The Guardian) - US pesticide companies push state laws to block cancer-related lawsuits from farmers, sparking fierce opposition in Iowa and other agricultural states.

  • Gender Advisor (Programme Management Officer), P-4, Bangkok (UNDRR) - UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction seeks Gender Advisor in Bangkok to lead women's leadership program and mainstream gender equality in disaster risk reduction initiatives across Asia-Pacific.

  • Rhino poachers imprisoned in back-to-back South Africa sentencing (Mongabay) - South African court sentences four rhino poachers to lengthy prison terms in Kruger National Park cases, including a former SANParks ranger.

  
  

   Renewables

  GiveSolar and Habitat for Humanity expand solar access, Masdar plans $6B solar-battery megaproject, Microquanta breaks perovskite efficiency record, while Codrington wind farm faces closure and Sharp exits European market

  
  

  • An Apolitical Win: Solar Power on Habitat Houses (Energy Central) - Virginia nonprofit GiveSolar partners with Habitat for Humanity to install solar panels on new homes statewide, providing cost savings for low-income homeowners through integrated mortgage financing.

  • Australia’s oldest commercial wind farm to close as cost of repowering is too high (RenewEconomy) - Australia's first commercial wind farm at Codrington to close by 2027 as upgrading costs for modern turbines prove financially unviable.

  • Masdar’s Solar-Plus-Battery Project Will Redefine Reliable Energy (Forbes) - UAE's Masdar to build world's largest solar-plus-battery project, delivering 24/7 power with 5.2GW capacity and 19GWh storage for $6 billion by 2027.

  • Rooftop solar three times cheaper to install in Australia than US, Canada (RenewEconomy) - Australian rooftop solar installation costs average $0.89/W nationally, roughly one-third the cost of installations in US ($4/W) and Canada ($3.65/W).

  • Are Solar Shingles the Future of Installations? (Mosaic) - Solar shingle technology gains momentum as major manufacturers expand production capacity and improve integration with traditional roofing, despite installation complexity and specialized labor requirements.

  • Berrybank lightning strike could be the new normal for wind farms, says expert (RenewEconomy) - Lightning strikes pose increasing risk to modern wind turbines due to taller heights and carbon fiber materials, with Australian farms seeing 1-20 strikes per turbine annually.

  • Budget 2025: Experts Expect Spur In India’s Renewable Growth (AmpIn Energy) - India's 2025 budget expected to accelerate renewable energy growth through new incentives and policy measures.

  • China Solar PV News Snippets: Microquanta Sets New Perovskite Module Efficiency Record & More (TaiyangNews) - Chinese firm Microquanta achieves 21.86% efficiency record for large-area perovskite solar modules, plans GW-scale production line launch in March.

  • Does offshore wind actually kill birds? (Environment America) - While offshore wind turbines pose some collision risks to birds, the impact is significantly lower than other threats like buildings or cats, and can be mitigated through careful planning and design features.

  • Europe Solar PV News Snippets: Eltel To Build Finland’s 2nd Largest Solar Plant & More (TaiyangNews) - Eltel to construct Finland's second-largest solar plant with 129 MW capacity for €73.5 million, set to generate 140 GWh annually when operational by mid-2026.

  • Experts Anticipate Renewable Energy Will Overrun Trump’s Dopey “Energy Dominance” Policy (CleanTechnica) - FERC data shows renewable energy captured 90.5% of new US electricity generating capacity in 2024, with solar alone accounting for 81% despite Trump's energy policies.

  • Global Clean Energy Technology Costs To Drop By Up To 11% In 2025 (TaiyangNews) - Bloomberg NEF forecasts clean energy technology costs to drop 2-11% in 2025, with solar leading cost declines and remaining cheaper than coal and gas globally.

  • Iberdrola’s Alto Tâmega Hydroelectric Plant recognized by Portuguese Water Resources Association (Renewable Energy World) - Iberdrola's Alto Tâmega hydroelectric complex in Portugal wins national award for 1,158 MW capacity system featuring innovative pumped storage capabilities.

  • JinkoSolar Once Again Achieves AAA Rating in PV Tech Q4 2024 Bankability Report, Leading Global PV Innovation (TaiyangNews) - JinkoSolar maintains AAA bankability rating in Q4 2024 with 24.8% module efficiency and 300GW total shipments, leading global solar module market.

  • Load growth is changing how Silicon Ranch develops solar projects (Latitude Media) - Silicon Ranch shifts solar development strategy to meet data center demand with larger, phased projects and earlier partnerships amid rising load growth.

  • MENA Region May Sport 75 GW Solar PV Capacity By 2030 (TaiyangNews) - MENA region's renewable energy pipeline of 131 GW by 2030 includes 75 GW solar PV capacity, with UAE leading current 22.3 GW installed base.

  • Microsoft Buying Power From Three EDP Renewables’ Solar Projects (POWER Magazine) - Microsoft signs 389 MW power purchase agreement with EDP Renewables for three new solar projects in Illinois and Texas, including environmental justice initiatives.

  • Utah’s Clean Solar Energy & Storage Boom: Why? (CleanTechnica) - Meta's renewable energy commitment drives Utah's solar boom with 400MW Green River Energy Center and 1600MWh battery storage facility nearing completion near Castle Dale.

  • Vast unveils new power tower – the “last bit of gear” for Australia’s first big solar thermal plant (RenewEconomy) - Australian company Vast Renewables completes innovative modular solar thermal receiver tower for nation's first utility-scale concentrated solar power plant in Port Augusta.

  • Astronergy Wins TaiyangNews Badge of Excellence 2024 for TwoConsecutive Years (TaiyangNews) - Astronergy wins Badge of Excellence for second consecutive year for its high-efficiency n-type solar modules achieving top-10 commercial efficiency rankings.

  • High winds detach another serrated edge from turbine at Australia’s largest wind project (RenewEconomy) - High winds detach serrated edge piece from turbine at Australia's largest Golden Plains wind farm, prompting safety measures and repair plans.

  • Sharp quits solar business in Europe, citing “challenging conditions” (RenewEconomy) - Sharp Electronics announces closure of its European solar division after 30 years, citing challenging market conditions, while maintaining product guarantees.

  
  

   Transport

  Global EV landscape shifts as BYD outpaces Tesla, Michigan's $110M charger funding wavers, Norway hits 97% EV share, while Fastned expands to 346 stations and Proton, Ilika advance amid mixed US-EU market signals

  
  

  • Michigan’s $110 million for EV charging in question (Canary Media) - Michigan's $110 million EV charger funding is uncertain as federal program faces nullification by Trump administration.

  • 2027 Revisited — Where Will Plugin Vehicles Be In 3 Years? (CleanTechnica) - Global EV sales projected to reach 26-37 million units by 2027, driven by Chinese manufacturers and emerging markets despite slower growth in US and EU markets.

  • EVs Take 96.9% Share In Norway – Toyota BZ4X Best-Seller (CleanTechnica) - Norway's EV market share hits 96.9% in January 2025 with Toyota BZ4X leading sales, marking near-complete transition to electric vehicles.

  • Malaysian Automaker Proton Launches Its First EV (CleanTechnica) - Malaysian automaker Proton launches first electric SUV e.MAS 7 with 410km range, marking country's entry into domestic EV manufacturing.

  • US Is Losing The Solid-State EV Battery Race, Bigly (CleanTechnica) - UK firm Ilika advances toward gigascale production of solid-state EV batteries while US clean tech innovation lags under Trump administration.

  • Airbus Drops Hydrogen As Aviation Industry Admits It Won’t Fly (CleanTechnica) - Airbus abandons hydrogen aircraft development as European aviation industry reduces hydrogen's projected role in emissions reduction from 20% to 6% by 2050.

  • Another Fastned Year of Fast Growth (CleanTechnica) - European EV charging network Fastned expands operations to 346 stations across multiple countries, plans 75 new stations in 2025 amid growing EV adoption.

  • BYD vs. Tesla — Some Key Points (CleanTechnica) - BYD surpasses Tesla in automotive profit margins and global EV market presence, reporting 25.6% vs Tesla's 13.58% margin while expanding rapidly in China and international markets.

  • California’s surge in EV sales has stalled — so what happens to its landmark mandate? (RenewableEnergyWorld) - California's electric vehicle sales stagnate at 25% market share, threatening state's mandate to reach 35% by 2026 and phase out gas cars by 2035.

  • Cold Chain Climate Summit 2025: How We Drive Sustainable Innovation in Temperature-Controlled Transport (Sunswap) - UK's Cold Chain Climate Summit 2025 to address sustainable temperature-controlled transport innovations and emissions reduction strategies at University of Warwick.

  • How the war in Ukraine has made flying worse for the climate (The Conversation) - Russia-Ukraine war forces airlines to reroute Europe-Asia flights, increasing CO2 emissions by up to 40% due to longer flight paths around conflict zones.

  • Intellihub Completes Installation of 50 EV Chargers on Power Poles (CleanTechnica) - Intellihub completes installation of 50 power pole-mounted EV chargers in Sydney, providing innovative solution for street parking charging access with $2.04M project backed by ARENA grant.

  • IREC Releases Charging Smart Regional Engagement Partner RFP (IREC) - Interstate Renewable Energy Council seeks regional partners to help local governments implement EV charging best practices through new Charging Smart designation program.

  • Recurrent Data Clarifies EV Range Loss In Cold Conditions (CleanTechnica) - Recurrent's analysis of 18,000 EVs shows winter range loss averages 10% with heat pumps versus 20% with resistance heaters, with no permanent battery damage.

  • The EV managed charging problem no one wants to talk about (Utility Dive) - Experts warn that screen-scraping methods for EV managed charging pose security risks and reliability issues compared to authorized automaker partnerships.

  • The EV Tax Credit Has a Looming Paperwork Crisis (Heatmap News) - IRS reporting requirements confusion leads to widespread EV tax credit rejections as dealerships fail to submit mandatory sale documentation within required timeframe.

  • The Tide Is Turning Against Giant EVs (Heatmap News) - Ford shifts strategy away from pure electric trucks toward extended-range EVs due to high battery costs and poor sales of F-150 Lightning.

  • There isn’t enough ‘sustainable’ aviation fuel to make a dent in our emissions – and there won’t be for years (The Conversation) - Current sustainable aviation fuel production falls far short of demand, with UK's ambitious 10% SAF target by 2030 likely achieving only 7% emissions reduction.

  • UK used electric vehicle sales hit record last year as prices fell (The Guardian) - UK used electric vehicle sales surged 57.4% to record 188,382 units in 2024 as prices fell and model choices expanded.

  • Budget 2025 Paves Way for Affordable Electric Vehicles (AMPIN Energy) - India's 2025 budget introduces measures to make electric vehicles more affordable through policy changes and incentives.

  • IONNA Plans To Unlock Arizona Camping Adventure (CleanTechnica) - IONNA plans to install EV charging stations in Willcox, Arizona, enabling better access to Chiricahua Mountains for electric vehicle camping and tourism.

  • Leading Philippines EV Company Energizes More Charging Stations, Launches Membership Program (CleanTechnica) - Philippines' ACMobility expands EV charging network to 74 stations in Makati City and launches three-tier membership program to accelerate electric vehicle adoption.

  • The Unavoidable Demise Of The Western Car Industry In China (CleanTechnica) - Western automakers face market share collapse in China as domestic EV manufacturers outperform on quality, design, and price.