Climate Change Solutions Update

Author: Cleantechnica

  • World’s 1st Production Solid-State Battery!

    A small company in Finland, Donutlabs, has developed the world's first production solid-state battery with a high energy density of 400 Wh/kg. Verge Motorcycles has incorporated these batteries into their motorcycles, allowing for up to 600 km of range and an 80% charge in less than 10 minutes. The batteries have a long cycle life, work in extreme temperatures, and are safe and cost-effective. This advancement in battery technology could lead to the end of combustion engines in various applications and accelerate the electrification of the world's energy, offering a promising solution to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/05/worlds-1st-production-solid-state-battery/

  • How Long Until China Is At 90% Plugin Vehicle Sales?

    China has experienced a substantial increase in plugin vehicle sales, with over half of new vehicle sales now being plugin vehicles. Despite uncertainty surrounding the future growth of electric vehicle sales in China, comparisons to Norway's rapid rise in EV share suggest that China could potentially reach 90% plugin vehicle sales by 2030. The Chinese EV market is highly developed, competitive, and rapidly expanding, indicating that it is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/04/how-long-until-china-is-at-90-plugin-vehicle-sales/

  • From Riverboats To Global Ports: CATL Is Winning The Shipping Electrification Race

    CATL's batteries and energy management systems are being utilized in various ships and vessels, showcasing a shift towards electrification in maritime transport. The company's Ship-Shore-Cloud electric vessel solution, in partnership with A.P. Moller Maersk, is driving decarbonization efforts in ports and logistics, focusing on electrifying ground equipment, harbor craft, and shore power for vessels. Challenges in decarbonizing deep sea shipping are being addressed through operational changes, sustainable biofuels, and the prioritization of electrification in ports and short sea routes. Chinese battery manufacturers are leading the way in supplying batteries for maritime applications, while Europe and countries like Norway, Denmark, and Scotland are making strides in ferry electrification. This concrete reshaping of the shipping sector towards electrification is already in progress, with a focus on reducing emissions and costs while increasing regulatory familiarity and workforce capability.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/04/from-riverboats-to-global-ports-catl-is-winning-the-shipping-electrification-race/

  • On Heat Pumps, Colorado Hits The Ground Running

    Colorado is launching a rebate program offering up to $14,000 for energy efficiency upgrades, including heat pumps, to accelerate the transition to clean, all-electric systems and reduce carbon emissions. Zero Home is expanding statewide in Colorado, focusing on cold-climate heat pumps covered by the new rebate program, with up to $8,000 in rebates available. Heat pump sales have increased significantly in recent years, surpassing gas furnaces, with a new wave of cold-climate technology entering the market. Biden-era initiatives are supporting the development of commercial-scale heat pumps, heat pump clothes dryers, and water heaters, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/03/on-heat-pumps-colorado-hits-the-ground-running/

  • 21 Gigawatts of Solar for California Land That Can No Longer Be Used for Agriculture

    The Westlands Water District in California's San Joaquin Valley is repurposing fallowed land for solar power plants, potentially generating 21 gigawatts of solar energy. California law AB 2661 authorizes the water district to develop solar generation, battery storage, and transmission facilities, with a community benefits plan in place. This initiative aims to address the region's issues with drought, limited water supply, and agricultural needs, providing a practical approach to preserving agriculture while utilizing dry, empty land for renewable energy production.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/03/21-gigawatts-of-solar-for-california-land-that-can-no-longer-be-used-for-agriculture/

  • BYD New Global BEV Sales Leader, Displacing Tesla

    In 2025, BYD surpassed Tesla as the top electric car manufacturer, selling 2.26 million electric vehicles globally. BYD's success is attributed to its production of both fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, allowing it to meet consumer and regulatory demands. With plans for new factories in Hungary and Turkey, BYD's export business is growing, and analysts predict total sales could reach 5.3 million units in the following year. BYD has unveiled a technology platform to boost competitiveness, focusing on electric buses and heavy-duty trucks, with sales doubling in 2025 to 57,000 units. Despite its lower stock valuation compared to Tesla, BYD's progress in the EV market could potentially change the dynamics of the industry.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/02/byd-new-global-bev-sales-leader-displacing-tesla/

  • One Step Closer To The Compostable EV Battery Of The Future

    Flint, a Singapore-based startup supported by Shell and OPPO Research Institute, has developed a bio-based paper battery made from cellulose fibers found in plant cell walls. This innovative battery is cost-effective, durable, sustainable, fire-resistant, rechargeable, and offers a lifespan comparable to traditional batteries. It is 1.8 times cheaper per kWh compared to lithium-ion batteries and can naturally biodegrade. WH-Power has also introduced a new energy storage technology with a quasi solid-state electrolyte for stable operation with Li anodes and cathodes, high ion conductivity, and fast-charging capability. These advancements in plant-based and solid-state battery technologies aim to improve the sustainability profile of electric vehicles and other applications, offering promising solutions for the future of energy storage.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/02/one-step-closer-to-the-compostable-ev-battery-of-the-future/

  • Green Hydrogen Startup Has A Message For Texas: Hold My Beer

    Oklahoma is emerging as a new player in the green hydrogen industry, with startup Tobe Energy receiving a $1.8 million investment for their membrane-free electrolysis system. This technology aims to simplify the production process, reduce costs by up to 75%, and cut waste heat, with a focus on large-scale use in industries like energy, manufacturing, and transportation. Tobe Energy's innovative approach using LED technology in electrolysis has attracted interest from investors and is seen as a promising development in the decarbonization movement. Oklahoma's strong renewable energy profile and focus on attracting new businesses through renewable energy further solidify its position in the US energy transition, with the state actively promoting renewable energy as a way to drive economic growth and sustainability.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/01/a-green-hydrogen-innovator-in-oklahoma-has-a-message-for-texas-hold-my-beer/

  • 2025 Highlight: Guangzhou Shows a Potential Future of Clean City Living

    Guangzhou, part of the Pearl River Delta megalopolis, showcases innovative urban planning strategies that prioritize sustainability and quality of life. The city's advanced urban design features vertical greenery, parks over shopping malls, and well-landscaped public spaces, contributing to a pleasant and livable environment. With a focus on sustainable transportation, renewable energy sources, and efficient land use, Guangzhou serves as a model for reducing emissions and promoting green living. Despite facing challenges like scooter traffic and the need for more electrification, embracing clean technology can lead to a cleaner and better future in this vibrant and technology-driven city.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/01/2025-highlight-guangzhou-shows-a-potential-future-of-clean-city-living/

  • Credo Releases 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report

    Credo Technology Group Holding Ltd has released its 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, highlighting its progress in providing secure, high-speed connectivity solutions that are energy efficient. The company's focus on responsible growth and long-term value creation includes advancing connectivity solutions that support reduced waste and energy-efficient growth of AI data centers. Credo's commitment to building products with lower power consumption reflects its vision for sustainable connectivity in the face of increasing energy demands. The company's efforts in product innovation and partnerships contribute to education, health, and local community needs, showcasing its integrity and commitment to improvement.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2025/12/30/credo-releases-2025-environmental-social-and-governance-esg-report/