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.
Author: Cleantechnica
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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.
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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.
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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/
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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/
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Business Provides Over 50 EV Chargers Onsite For Employees
Packsize, a company in Salt Lake City, has implemented over 50 onsite EV chargers for its employees, resulting in a 30% EV adoption rate among staff. This initiative not only serves as an employee perk but also supports employee retention and company performance. Electric vehicles are beneficial for the environment and human health due to their lack of carbon emissions and toxic air pollution. Packsize's founder's initial focus on reducing harmful air pollution led to the installation of a 200 kW solar power system to generate electricity for the chargers. It is crucial to consider the source of electricity when charging EVs to minimize environmental impact, as some chargers may contribute to pollution by using electricity from coal and natural gas power plants.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/19/business-provides-over-50-ev-chargers-onsite-for-employees/
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Ebikes & Bikes for Everything, + Much of What I’ve Learned Riding Bikes for 75 Years (Part I)
The section discusses the use of bikes and ebikes as a sustainable transportation option in conjunction with public transportation in places like Utah, highlighting the benefits of last-mile transportation and commuting to work. Emphasizing the importance of dedicated bike paths and safe roads, the article also mentions the convenience of using bike racks on buses and trains. Additionally, it discusses the practicality of riding in various weather conditions, the benefits of ebikes for transportation and recreation, and the positive impact of biking on mental and physical health. The section also addresses options for old and handicapped individuals to use special bikes for transportation, providing tips on preventing flat tires and focusing on practical solutions for individuals facing mobility challenges while cycling.
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As Fossil Fuel Costs Rise, Renewable Energy And Storage Shine
Renewable energy and energy storage are dominating new utility-scale power generation capacity in the US, providing opportunities for energy consumers to buffer against fossil fuel price spikes. New York and New Jersey are leading the way in developing robust renewable energy profiles, with a focus on incentives for homeowners and innovative projects like floating solar power plants. Virtual power plants are being utilized to coordinate demand and supply among small devices, helping utilities avoid costly new gas plant construction. States like Massachusetts are setting ambitious targets for offshore wind projects and new solar and storage capacity by 2035, aiming to achieve significant savings through renewable energy initiatives. Despite uncertainties surrounding factors like natural gas costs and federal energy policy changes, US states are continuing to promote renewable energy transitions with incentives for energy storage, virtual power plants, and new wind and solar projects.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/17/as-fossil-fuel-costs-rise-renewable-energy-storage-shine/
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Tesla, Schmesla: Let’s Talk About Workhorse Electric Trucks
Workhorse, a US auto maker, has quietly logged over 20 million miles on its zero emission electric vehicles, including vans, shuttles, buses, and trucks. The company aims to scale up its operation to produce 60,000 units a year and bring down the up-front price of its electric trucks to parity with gasoline and diesel. With a focus on depot-based charging and grid management programs, Workhorse is providing fleet owners with a software-defined vehicle that offers cost savings and autonomous driving capabilities. The recent merger with Motiv Electric Trucks has provided Workhorse with scalable manufacturing capabilities and financial support, positioning the company as a key player in the growing demand for electric trucks in the transportation sector.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/16/tesla-schmesla-lets-talk-about-workhorse-electric-trucks/
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When Fossil Fuel Supplies Falter, Interest In Renewables Increases
Cuba has rapidly transitioned to solar and wind power with assistance from China, increasing solar energy generation to over 20 percent in just 12 months to address US sanctions cutting off oil supply from Venezuela. The country aims to achieve energy independence by 2028 with up to 600 megawatts of battery storage, rendering the US oil blockade economically irrelevant. This transition showcases one of the fastest energy transitions achieved by a developing nation and could serve as a model for other countries facing energy crises. The conflict in the Middle East has also led to an increase in interest in personal renewable energy solutions, such as solar installations, home batteries, and EV chargers, signaling a potential tipping point for the world to embrace renewables.