The Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) plant in northeastern England and Silicon Valley startup Conifer are leading the way in developing rare earth-free electric motors for electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce supply chain risks and environmental harm associated with rare earth mining. Niron Magnetics is also working on iron-based magnets to decrease manufacturing costs and dependency on Chinese rare earth supplies, with support from major automotive companies and Western governments. The US, Canada, and the European Union are investing in subsidies and research to mine and produce rare earth materials, while also exploring recycling and alternative materials to create a circular supply chain that reduces costs and environmental impact in the production of motors and other technologies.
Tag: US
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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/
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USGS launches nationwide water availability tool
The USGS has developed a new tool to assess water availability in communities across the US, taking into account the impacts of climate change, suburban growth, farming, and data centers. By combining data from stream monitoring, satellite observations, and climate modeling, the tool provides detailed information on water supply and demand in 80,000 watersheds. This information can help decision-makers understand regional imbalances between supply and demand, which may lead to water challenges affecting millions of Americans. The tool aids in effective water planning by identifying whether challenges stem from limited natural water supply, high demand, or both.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/usgs-launches-nationwide-water-availability-tool/
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Beyond Meat joins the Exponential Roadmap Initiative’s Climate Solutions Cluster
Beyond Meat's Beyond Burger® IV and Beyond Steak® Tips have been recognized as qualifying climate solutions by the Exponential Roadmap Initiative (ERI) for their significantly lower emissions compared to conventional options. The Beyond Burger® IV has a 70% lower carbon footprint than the US-average beef patty, while the Beyond Steak® Tips have a 65% lower carbon footprint. Shifting diets towards plant-based alternatives can help reduce emissions from the food system and support a more resilient food system, as plant-based foods generally require fewer resources and can reduce emissions, land use, and water consumption associated with food production.
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What If The US Redirected The Money From The Iran War To Clean Energy?
The section discusses the potential benefits of redirecting $200 billion from the Iran War efforts towards clean energy projects in the US, emphasizing the importance of investing in renewables for energy security, economic stability, and reduced emissions. It contrasts wasteful war spending with the potential for a Just Transition to clean energy, decentralized grids, and incentives for electric vehicles. The article also highlights the low operating costs and stability of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, stressing the need for government intervention in funding research and innovation for electrification. Innovations in the EV battery sector, shared charging hubs for heavy-duty trucks, and submersible hydropower in the Great Lakes region are discussed as key solutions for climate action, along with grid enhancements and free training for clean energy installers. The focus is on the importance of shifting towards a clean energy paradigm for a more sustainable and secure future, showcasing the positive trend towards sustainable energy solutions in the US.
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The US Is Sitting On 161 Gigawatts Of Wind Farm Capacity
Repowering older wind farms in the US with new, more efficient turbines could add an additional 161 gigawatts in capacity without requiring additional land. This process involves replacing outdated equipment with new rotors, blades, and taller turbine towers to increase capacity, reduce operating expenses, neighbor complaints, and wildlife impacts, while freeing up land for other purposes. Wind repowering is highlighted as a key strategy to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy in the United States, with the potential to more than double the capacity of existing wind farms by 2024. The importance of repowering projects in addressing societal factors, regulation, and development principles is noted, emphasizing the need for a negotiated process between communities and developers to unlock the full potential of wind energy. Trump's policies are mentioned but wind energy continues to grow and play a key role in the nation's energy mix, with utility-scale solar and storage leading the way in capacity additions for 2026.
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Solar For The Win! Energy From The Sun Is Setting Records Worldwide
Solar energy has the potential to meet the world's entire energy demand by covering less than 1% of the Earth's surface with solar panels, providing free fuel once installed. The growth of solar energy worldwide could meet over 20% of the world's energy demand by 2030, with countries like China, the European Union, the US, and others making significant strides in solar energy capacity. Solar energy costs are decreasing, making it the cheapest form of electricity in many regions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. A successful solar project in San Diego showcased the financial savings and sustainability benefits of solar power, highlighting its potential to promote growth and support climate solutions.
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DIY plug-in solar shows $0.65/W potential in US market
The emergence of plug-in solar power offers a way for renters and apartment dwellers to cut their utility bills with solar energy. The technology allows for easy installation by amateurs and can be plugged into existing outlets. While regulations around plug-in solar are not clearly defined in many places, the market is growing, with Europe serving as a model for the US. Kits are available for purchase, with prices reflecting a mature and active market. The section also discusses the challenges and solutions encountered during the installation of DIY solar panels, highlighting the potential for cost-effective solutions in the solar energy market.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/30/diy-plug-in-solar-shows-0-65-w-potential-in-us-market/
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An Update On Electric Vehicle Batteries And Innovations In The Sector
The Republican-controlled US Congress rescinded a $7,500 federal EV tax credit, causing an initial drop in EV sales, but the US/Israel war against Iran has reignited demand for electric vehicles. Innovations in the EV battery sector, such as BYD's cell-to-body architecture, are driving rising consumer interest in EVs. Forecasts predict plummeting battery prices will make battery EVs cheaper than traditional vehicles in Europe within two to four years. Automakers are shifting to LFP batteries to avoid supply chain complexities and improve performance, while research is ongoing for massless and solid-state EV batteries. There is a growing market for used EV batteries to be repurposed for energy storage, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for new mining of key minerals. Recycling EV batteries is crucial for a sustainable transportation system, with a focus on high mineral recovery rates and low environmental impact. Misinformation about EVs can hinder the transition to electric mobility, but advancements in battery technology and management systems are improving the longevity and performance of EV batteries. Real-world driving habits can significantly impact the lifespan of EV batteries, with proper use potentially extending their longevity by about a third. Researchers have found that actual driving situations can help extend the life of electric vehicle batteries, such as frequent acceleration, braking, and letting the batteries rest for hours at a time. Charging the vehicle with a low to medium charge level for long parking periods also decreases battery aging rates. The US Department of Energy is focusing on a Made-in-the-USA solution called DLE (Direct Lithium Extraction) using geothermal brine. In July 2023, the agency awarded funds to 10 innovators in the DLE field, including EnergyX, with a $5 million award.
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Balcony Solar Is Spreading Across The US
The balcony solar movement, originating in Germany, is spreading to the US with Illinois considering legislation to make it more accessible. Germany has seen over one million balcony solar panel installations, and Utah is the only state with comprehensive balcony solar laws. Safety First Bill 3104 aims to establish relaxed rules for small systems and UL Solutions has launched a certification program. The US coal industry faces challenges, with global coal prices spiking due to disruptions in natural gas supplies. The focus on renewable energy sources like solar power is crucial in the face of these challenges.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/28/balcony-solar-is-spreading-across-the-us/