Climate Change Solutions Update

Tag: America

  • Google’s $3.5B solar project pushes US into new territory

    The Steel River Energy Center in Arkansas, the largest solar and battery project in America, with 1,600 MW of solar and 1,900 MW of battery storage capacity, has garnered significant attention in the U.S. solar industry. Google's 20-year contract to purchase the electricity output highlights the tech industry's interest in renewable energy, while the project's $3.5 billion price tag and financing from four banks demonstrate investor confidence in the sector. Despite challenges like expired tax credits and logistical barriers, the project showcases the potential for solar and battery storage to meet growing electricity demand and the importance of domestic manufacturing in the clean energy industry. The steel coil used by PACO Steel for fabricating the project's pilings will be made in a way that is beneficial for the climate, further emphasizing the positive impact of the Steel River Energy Center.

    https://www.eenews.net/articles/googles-3-5b-solar-project-pushes-us-into-new-territory/

  • Tandem PV announces 30.4% efficient perovskite/silicon demonstration module

    Tandem PV has achieved a record-breaking conversion efficiency of 30.4% with their perovskite glass tandem configuration module, surpassing the 30% efficiency barrier and showing promising durability with a 1% degradation rate per year. The company, with former U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm on board, aims to quickly scale production modules that could achieve 28% efficiency. Their design allows for integration with various cell technologies, ensuring continued improvement in the future and providing more affordable and reliable clean energy solutions for America.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/06/01/tandem-pv-announces-30-4-efficient-perovskite-silicon-demonstration-module/

  • Construction starts on US’ first utility-scale advanced NPP

    TerraPower is constructing the Natrium plant, Kemmerer Unit 1, the first utility-scale advanced nuclear power plant in the US, featuring a sodium-cooled fast reactor with an integrated molten salt-based energy storage system for increased energy output as needed. Part of the US Department of Energy's Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, the Natrium plant aims to serve as a blueprint for future plants globally, providing steady base output and quick ramp-up during peak demand, offering a unique and innovative addition to America's energy infrastructure.

    https://www.power-technology.com/news/construction-starts-on-us-first-utility-scale-advanced-npp/

  • Announcing the 2026 American Climate Leadership Awards Finalists

    The 2026 American Climate Leadership Awards (ACLA) finalists, announced by ecoAmerica, highlight a diverse group of stakeholders focused on local and systemic climate solutions. These organizations empower youth, promote care for creation, and advance practical solutions for food security and rural vitality. Each finalist will receive a minimum of $10,000, with the winner receiving $50,000. The awards, to be announced live on April 16, recognize individuals and organizations for their inspirational work in climate action. Supporting national institutions to engage their members in local communities is crucial for advocating ambitious climate mitigation, resilience, and restoration efforts, empowering grassroots action across America.

    https://ecoamerica.org/announcing-the-2026-american-climate-leadership-awards-finalists-blog/

  • Could American “Spirited Self-Determination” Reshape Energy?

    Schneider Electric has been partnering with the National Laboratory of the Rockies for a decade to tackle energy questions, focusing on projects such as analyzing the U.S. energy economy in 2050 and developing smart panels for homeowners. The partnership aims to bring together electric ingenuity, automation, artificial intelligence, and digital control to provide better energy solutions, with outcomes potentially leading to reduced energy costs and greater control over electricity flow for Americans. Schneider Electric is investing in technologies and systems to adapt to America's energy future, exploring plausible energy futures and preparing to navigate change based on insights. The partnership is also analyzing the potential energy and cost savings of smart panels for American consumers and utilities, with simulations being conducted to quantify the long-term benefits of this technology. Together, Schneider Electric and NLR are focused on making a significant impact in the energy sector, aiming for greater resilience, affordability, and competitiveness in the future energy landscape.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2025/12/23/could-american-spirited-self-determination-reshape-energy/