Climate Change Solutions Update

Author: Cleantechnica

  • Will Water-Powered Microgrids Work in the Real World?

    The National Laboratory of the Rockies is hosting a webinar series on marine energy microgrid technologies, focusing on testing and de-risking these technologies in the lab before deployment in remote communities. The potential for harnessing wave, tidal, and river-current energy is immense and widely distributed across the US coastlines and rivers. Researchers at the laboratory are using wave energy converters to desalinate seawater and improve power electronics in these devices. This approach can help address unique energy challenges in remote communities like those in Alaska, where over 250 communities operate isolated microgrids. Interested individuals can sign up for CleanTechnica's Weekly Substack for more in-depth analyses and high-level summaries on clean energy topics.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/06/will-water-powered-microgrids-work-in-the-real-world/

  • Could Light Be Used To Drive Enzymes for Efficient Ammonia Production?

    Researchers are exploring the use of nanocrystal-nitrogenase biohybrids to reduce energy costs in ammonia production by harnessing light to convert N2 gas to ammonia. By studying electron delivery efficiency and hole scavenging in the CdS:MoFe complex, they aim to optimize the process and potentially lower energy costs. This innovative technology could lead to localized production near agricultural sites, reducing transportation costs and offering applications in fuel, feedstock, and energy storage. The research, highlighted by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science Basic Energy Sciences program, provides valuable insights into biological nitrogen fixation and electron transfer pathways, with implications for sustainable climate solutions.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/06/could-light-be-used-to-drive-enzymes-for-efficient-ammonia-production/

  • New Solution For Critical Minerals: Recycling, Not Conflict Zones

    A new US startup, Supra Elemental Recovery, has developed a sponge-like filter to extract high-purity critical minerals from industrial waste, offering a more secure and sustainable solution compared to overseas mining. The University of Texas has contributed to the funding and development of the cartridge, which is designed to be reusable and environmentally friendly. The technology has shown promising results, with investors backing the project. This innovative approach could potentially revolutionize the extraction and refining of critical minerals needed for EVs and solar cells. The Supra team is working on a commercial-level demonstration later this year, aiming to provide U.S.-based manufacturers with a sustainable source of critical minerals.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/05/the-solution-for-us-critical-minerals-geopolitical-minefield-vs-recycling/

  • Solar Power Provides Benefits To Northern Cheyenne & Kenyan Communities

    Clean, renewable energy solutions such as solar power and energy storage systems are proving to be cost competitive with fossil fuels and are providing reliable electricity to remote communities. Projects like the Northern Cheyenne Buffalo Reservation Project and the Give Power Project are examples of how solar power and battery storage are improving quality of life by bringing electricity and clean water to communities in need, reducing dependence on polluting diesel generators. The installation of solar systems at school campuses not only powers daily operations but also benefits the broader community by improving safety, supporting healthier learning environments with access to clean water, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. These initiatives showcase the positive impact of renewable energy solutions in addressing climate change and improving the well-being of communities.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/05/solar-power-provides-benefits-to-northern-cheyenne-kenyan-communities/

  • BYD’s Turquois T-Shaped Second-Generation Flash Chargers Seen At Dealers Ahead Of Launch

    BYD has revealed the next generation of "Flash Chargers" with up to 1200 kW of charging power, an upgrade from the previous model, aiming to make electric vehicle charging faster and more convenient. The company is introducing new electric vehicles with 1000V architecture and flash charging capabilities, expanding rapidly in China and Europe. A new flash charging ecosystem is emerging at "China speed," potentially changing how people use EVs and making traditional ICE vehicles less relevant. Overall, BYD is focusing on improving power and design aspects of their chargers to enable smooth and efficient usage, with 5-minute charging potentially becoming standard globally.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/02/byds-turquois-t-shaped-second-generation-flash-chargers-seen-at-dealers-ahead-of-launch/

  • Why Waiting on Grid Batteries Will Cost Ontario More Than Acting Now

    The discussion in Ottawa highlighted the rapid growth of grid batteries globally, emphasizing the need for different solutions for seasonal peaks and the importance of balancing supply and demand in electricity systems. Automated systems are increasingly managing grid operations, with a focus on renewable energy integration and energy storage solutions like batteries and electric vehicles. The conversation also touched on the reliability of different energy sources, the impact of falling battery prices on the energy landscape, and the potential for software and batteries to replace traditional infrastructure upgrades. Overall, the focus is on the evolving dynamics of the energy sector towards more sustainable and efficient solutions, with batteries playing a crucial role in cost-effective flexibility options when paired with new generation and thoughtful system planning.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/02/why-waiting-on-grid-batteries-will-cost-ontario-more-than-acting-now/

  • New Pumped Hydro Energy Storage System Needs No Mountains

    The domestic hydropower industry is facing challenges and opportunities amidst the Trump administration's support for fossil fuels. There is a shift towards upgrading existing dams and exploring pumped hydro energy storage as a clean energy solution. Innovations by companies like Quidnet and RheEnergise offer potential for energy storage on low, hilly terrain with lower costs compared to lithium-ion batteries. Progress on the "Build More Hydro" bill, aimed at extending construction deadlines for delayed hydropower projects, is underway in Congress. These advancements showcase the potential for clean energy innovation and growth in the hydropower sector.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/01/new-pumped-hydro-energy-storage-system-needs-no-mountains/

  • SpaceX Proposes One Million Solar Powered Data Centers In Earth Orbit

    The demand for artificial intelligence is driving the need for more electricity, with predictions of up to 20% of global electricity generation being required. Fossil fuel advocates and nuclear power supporters see opportunities for new power stations, but the lack of renewable energy to power data centers remains an issue. Some countries, like Ireland, are mandating that new data centers source 80% of their power from renewables, while the US continues to operate older coal plants despite higher costs and pollution. SpaceX has proposed launching solar-powered satellites to serve as data centers, aiming to reduce environmental impact and energy costs. The section also discusses the Kardashev Scale, which categorizes civilizations based on their energy consumption capabilities, and highlights concerns about satellite pollution and debris in Earth's orbit, as well as the potential power and influence of Elon Musk in controlling global data.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/01/spacex-proposes-one-million-solar-powered-data-centers-in-earth-orbit/

  • Schneider Electric Recognized for Continued Sustainability Leadership Across Leading ESG Ratings in 2025

    Schneider Electric has been recognized for its strong sustainability performance in global benchmarks, including the World Benchmarking Alliance assessments, ranking first in the Social Benchmark and third in the Gender Benchmark. The company's sustainability strategy, guided by the Schneider Sustainability Impact program, has led to measurable results and recognition as a sustainable leader in the industry. With a focus on intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory, Schneider Electric has a large global presence with 160,000 employees and one million partners in over 100 countries. CleanTechnica offers in-depth analyses and summaries on clean tech topics, providing options to sign up for newsletters and podcasts for more information.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/29/schneider-electric-recognized-for-continued-sustainability-leadership-across-leading-esg-ratings-in-2025/

  • New Design For Data Center In Space, Like Beads On A String

    Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a design for orbiting data centers using tethers, which are cables made up of thousands of individual computer nodes. This design aims to address scalability issues faced by other orbiting data center designs, with passive tethers that maintain their orientation in space without constant adjustments. The system can support up to 20 megawatts of computing power and is resilient against micrometeoroids. Startups like OrbitAI and Aetherflux are already working on similar projects, leveraging solar power in space to address energy needs for artificial intelligence. This innovative approach could potentially help reduce the energy and water demands of data centers on Earth.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/29/data-centers-in-space-could-make-the-earth-look-like-a-porcupine-with-solar-panels/