Saturday, June 20 2026 Climate Solutions Update

In May 2026, solar power in the US generated 12.8% of the nation’s electricity, surpassing coal’s 12.2% for the first time, amidst an 11% year-over-year decline in coal generation. This milestone positions solar as the third-largest source of electricity, following natural gas and nuclear energy. The substantial growth of solar energy is driven by significant investments in markets across states such as Texas and California. Projections indicate that solar generation in ERCOT is on track to exceed coal for the first time this year, reflecting a broader trend toward renewable energy adoption.

In technology developments, JinkoSolar has achieved a notable efficiency of 34.82% for its perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, although Longi currently holds the world record at 34.85%. Such advancements are vital for enhancing solar energy’s role in the US energy landscape.

At the Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, governments reaffirmed their commitment to marine ecosystem protection, focusing on blue carbon ecosystems, coastal adaptation, and marine biodiversity, generating over 2,900 commitments valued at nearly $170 billion over the past decade. Former US climate envoy John Kerry highlighted the urgency of prioritizing ocean-based solutions, which could contribute significantly to emissions reductions, as the global community prepares for COP31 in Türkiye. The International Institute for Environment and Development also presented a collaborative 20-year roadmap for community-based adaptation, emphasizing the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in climate planning.

In New Mexico, the launch of the SunZia renewable energy project will provide power to one million households as a 3.65GW wind facility and HVDC line are developed, creating over 2,000 jobs.
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In the US, solar energy is now leading the way as it surpasses coal in electricity generation, marking a pivotal shift towards a sustainable energy future.
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Communities worldwide are enhancing resilience as a shared vision for locally led adaptation takes shape, empowering Indigenous Peoples and prioritizing local needs in climate action.
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Nine communities in northern Illinois are enhancing their electric vehicle infrastructure after graduating from the 2026 EV Readiness Program, paving the way for sustainable transportation growth.
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Utility-scale solar projects will benefit from Huawei’s FusionSolar 9.0 solution redefining optimal LCOE, enhancing energy yield and reliability while reducing costs and environmental impact.
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In North Carolina, Black women farmers are reclaiming their heritage as they establish land trusts to support community agriculture, preserving vital knowledge and promoting sustainable practices for future generations.
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At the Our Ocean Conference in Kenya, leaders committed to marine protection initiatives worth $6.4 billion, aiming to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change through ocean-based solutions.
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In China, JinkoSolar is advancing solar technology by achieving a 34.82% efficiency for tandem solar cells, paving the way for more sustainable energy solutions.
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Places mentioned in this update: Arizona, California, China, Illinois, Kenya, New Mexico, North Carolina, Texas, Türkiye, US