Climate Change Solutions Update

Author: Cleantechnica

  • Here Comes More Lithium For EV Batteries, Made In The USA

    EnergyX, a US startup, is making strides in producing battery-grade lithium domestically using Direct Lithium Extraction technology, with support from the US Department of Energy and private investors. Their demonstration plant in Texas is set to produce 250 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent annually, focusing on cost optimization for EV battery production. The Project Lonestar facility aims to enhance US energy security and defense readiness by supplying critical materials for military technology, highlighting the importance of domestic production for national security. The push for more electric vehicles in the US military underscores the need for alternative supply lines for critical minerals, reducing reliance on China and boosting the US's position in the global lithium refining industry.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/26/here-comes-more-lithium-for-ev-batteries-made-in-the-usa/

  • From Fuel Shock to Financial Stability in Hawaiʻi

    Hawai'i is looking to transition to a more sustainable energy system to reduce its reliance on imported fuels and lower costs. The state's decarbonization report shows that the transition will be cheaper in the long run compared to continuing with the current system. Investments in utility-scale renewables, batteries, grid upgrades, and other infrastructure will be necessary, but the declining costs of core technologies like solar and storage make the transition feasible. By shifting towards local renewable energy sources, Hawai'i can reduce its fuel-driven electricity prices and create a more resilient and cost-effective energy system. The state's financing strategy includes securitizing clean-energy finance and supporting distributed investment at scale, with a focus on utility-scale assets, major grid upgrades, and various financing options for different sectors.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/26/from-fuel-shock-to-financial-stability-in-hawai%CA%BBi/

  • Oʻahu 2050: A Hard-Charging Roadmap to a Zero-Carbon Energy System

    The roadmap for Oʻahu's energy future includes building a foundation of rooftop and canopy solar, batteries, EV charging, and district-cooling projects by 2030. The goal is to eliminate oil generation and H-POWER as power sources and decarbonize liquid fuels by the 2040s. The transition aims to reduce harm, lower costs, strengthen resilience, and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. The decision on the next steps belongs to Hawaiʻi's communities, workers, institutions, and leaders.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/25/o%CA%BBahu-2050-a-hard-charging-roadmap-to-a-zero-carbon-energy-system/

  • Why Nature-Based Investments Produce Results

    Nature-based solutions are crucial for climate mitigation, adaptation, and biodiversity protection, with the UN Environment Program calling for increased investment to $571 billion annually by 2030. These investments not only have the potential to lift people out of poverty, create jobs, and boost the economy but also prevent climate change damages. Financial institutions are recognizing the risks of nature loss and are incorporating nature-based investments to enhance long-term financial performance. To make nature-based investment a viable asset class, transparency, predictability, auditability, and alignment with global standards are necessary, as emphasized by participants in a workshop focusing on systemic change and transformative integration of nature-based solutions.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/25/why-nature-based-investments-produce-results/

  • Over 1,200 New EV Charging Stalls Deployed By EVgo In 2025

    EVgo, a US EV charging company, deployed over 1,200 fast charging stalls in 2025, growing their network to 5,100 stalls across 47 states. They saw a 50% year-over-year increase in revenue, reaching $384M in 2025. The presence of more public EV chargers supports EV adoption, with private sector companies leading the expansion. Fast chargers are preferred for longer trips, delivering 10-80% charge in under 40 minutes. This growth in EV charging infrastructure is a positive development for the climate.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/22/over-1200-new-ev-charging-stalls-deployed-by-evgo-in-2025/

  • MAGA Influencers Love Solar Power, And So Does Elon Musk

    Right wing pundits Katie Miller and KellyAnne Conway, along with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, have shown support for solar power. The US Department of Agriculture plays a significant role in administering grants and loan guarantees for farmers to save on energy costs through solar projects, with the REAP initiative providing opportunities for wind and solar power since 2002. However, under the Trump administration, there was a freeze on REAP disbursements, leading to a loss of over $1 billion in funds, and new restrictions imposed by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins limited opportunities for farmers. Tennessee has lost 9% of its farmland over a 20-year period, primarily due to real estate development, not solar industry growth, prompting the establishment of a $25 million fund to buy conservation easements from farmers. Trump has approved large solar projects in Nevada, with a push for solar power by conservative influencers and stakeholders in the AI industry, while Elon Musk plans to add 100 gigawatts of solar to the US grid and boost domestic solar manufacturing.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/21/maga-suddenly-loves-solar-power-but-will-brooke-rollins-get-the-memo/

  • Copper’s Battery-Equipped Induction Range Makes Electrification & Storage Accessible

    Copper's electric range, named "Charlie," features a convection oven and induction cooktop with a unique battery system that allows for extended oven use without the need for costly electrical upgrades. The battery can be charged over time and programmed to take advantage of off-peak power or solar energy. This innovative design aims to make electric cooking more accessible, especially in older buildings with limited electrical capabilities. By integrating batteries into appliances like refrigerators and EV chargers, people can shift when they draw electricity from the grid, helping stabilize the grid and increase renewable utilization. This approach makes storage more available to more people, especially in apartments, and can lead to greater adoption of electrification, ultimately making the benefits of climate solutions more accessible to a wider range of people.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/21/coppers-battery-equipped-induction-range-makes-electrification-storage-accessible/

  • New York Build Expo: Heat Pumps Take Center Stage

    The New York Build Expo showcased a focus on heat pumps, with big names like Midea, GE/Haier, and Daikin presenting various types for windows, interior use, and hot water. Challenges of integrating heat pumps into existing buildings were discussed, along with industry consolidation and limitations in very cold weather. The section also highlighted solar solutions in the context of climate solutions, including insights on New York City's Local Law 97 and the importance of tax credits and incentives. Additionally, creating a market for recycled plastic and sustainable materials like mass timber and foamed glass aggregate were emphasized, showing a shift towards a more environmentally friendly built environment in NYC.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/20/new-york-build-expo-heat-pumps-take-center-stage/

  • Trump Makes The Case For Maritime Wind Power Even Better

    The article highlights the advancements in wind power solutions for the shipping industry, such as the AirWing Jet Sail and Norsepower Wind EdgeTM systems, which aim to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions for cargo ships. Companies like VELA, CargoKite, and GT Wings are exploring innovative wind-assisted propulsion technologies to promote sustainability in maritime transport. These developments align with global efforts to prioritize climate-friendly solutions, despite the lack of support from some political leaders. By leveraging wind power, electrification, and alternative fuels, the shipping industry can make significant strides towards reducing its environmental impact and contributing to climate solutions.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/20/trump-makes-the-wind-power-case-for-the-global-shipping-industry/

  • The Hormuz Shock & The Rise Of The Electrostate

    The section discusses the potential impact of a disruption in the Strait of Hormuz on the global energy system and economy, highlighting the interconnectedness of fossil fuel shocks with various sectors. Vulnerability to such disruptions is concentrated in Asia, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to domestic electricity sources. China's focus on domestic energy sources and food security is highlighted, showcasing the benefits of investing in renewable energy and electrification technologies. The section also explores the fragility of hydrocarbon dependence and the need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources to enhance resilience and reduce reliance on imported fuel.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/19/the-hormuz-shock-the-rise-of-the-electrostate/