Thursday, August 13 2026 Climate Solutions Update

Australia’s largest aluminium smelter, Tomago Aluminium, is set to receive a $2.5 billion government package aimed at transitioning from coal to renewable energy, specifically by adding 3,000 MW of solar and wind capacity. This initiative is designed to reduce power costs by $35/MWh and supports Rio Tinto’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2033. Notably, similar agreements have been established for smelters in Queensland, highlighting a broader commitment to decarbonization and grid support across Australia.

In the United States, utility-scale battery storage capacity has experienced significant growth, increasing by 70% annually over the past three years to reach 43.6 GW by the end of 2025. An additional 8.3 GW came online in the first half of 2026, with plans for another 54 GW by the end of 2028. This expansion is closely linked to the growth of utility-scale solar projects, facilitating effective energy management.

In China, the DongSu project, the world’s largest single-site grid-forming lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery storage plant, has been connected to the grid. With a capacity of 1 GW/4 GWh, it supports high penetrations of wind and solar generation by providing essential voltage and frequency support. Additionally, China’s new five-year climate plan emphasizes objectives such as building a “Beautiful China” and developing a new-type energy system, alongside its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality before 2060, which includes specific targets for 2030.

Farmers in Australia are gaining independence from volatile markets by producing their own nitrogen fertiliser from air and water, significantly reducing emissions and costs.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Australia’s Tomago Aluminium smelter is set to reduce emissions significantly after receiving $2.5 billion for a renewable energy transition, enhancing competitiveness and creating jobs.
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

In China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the new 1 GW/4 GWh battery storage project enhances grid stability as the world’s largest LFP grid-forming plant goes online, supporting renewable energy integration.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

The United States is enhancing grid reliability as battery storage capacity grows by 70% annually, enabling better integration of renewable energy sources like solar power.
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Sinopec and BYD have transformed a petrol station in Shanghai into a flash charging hub, marking progress as China expands its electric vehicle infrastructure with 20,000 new stations planned.
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

The UAE is advancing its textile industry by developing a national textiles circularity policy framework, promoting resource preservation and economic value capture for sustainable growth.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

China is advancing its climate goals by implementing a comprehensive five-year plan for climate change, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060 and enhancing international cooperation with Brazil and the EU.
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Smallholder farmers in Asia are gaining access to carbon finance through newly approved methodologies for rice cultivation and landfill gas capture, enhancing food security and reducing methane emissions.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Places mentioned in this update: Asia, Australia, Brazil, China, Global South, Gulf, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Queensland, Shanghai, UAE, the United States