Energy efficiency guru Amory Lovins believes that reaching net zero emissions is possible by cutting greenhouse gas emissions, conserving energy, and removing any remaining carbon. He emphasizes the importance of conservation on the demand side, stating that the cleanest and cheapest energy is the energy that is not used. Lovins suggests that existing technology could make energy five times more efficient by 2060 through measures such as advanced transmission wires, integrative design in buildings, smarter structural design in construction, and the use of ultralight materials in transport. By reducing energy consumption, fossil fuels can be displaced faster, leading to significant emissions reductions. Global coal consumption reached an all-time high in 2024, hindering efforts to limit global warming, but the rise in renewable power capacity, solar and wind generation outpacing global electricity demand, and innovative solutions such as low-carbon cement making and green hydrogen-based steelmaking show promising steps towards a sustainable future.
Category: Buildings & Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Energy Sources
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Solar cell inspection tool evolution set to slash manufacturing costs by billions
A new contactless system developed by a team led by Hameiri at UNSW is revolutionizing the way solar cells are tested, using luminescence to analyze key electrical properties and offering detailed maps of defects, performance, and predicted lifespan. This technology overcomes limitations of current testing methods, allowing intact cells during testing and early defect detection, working with both silicon and emerging perovskite and tandem solar cells. The collaboration between UNSW and BT Imaging is turning laboratory breakthroughs into practical, factory-ready products for manufacturers worldwide, providing a versatile solution for mass production of next-generation solar technologies.
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TriplePundit • The Solar Revolution Has Only Just Begun
The evolution of global sustainability over the past 20 years has seen significant advancements in solar technology, with costs falling globally and integration with other systems. The history of solar energy dates back to the 1950s, with improvements in efficiency and cost reduction over time. In the United States, support for solar energy has seen peaks under Presidents Carter and Obama, leading to the SunShot program and a significant drop in solar panel costs. With solar energy now the most economical way to meet rising electricity demand, new developments in technology such as rooftop panels, agrivoltaics, and emerging technologies like perovskites and thin film solar cells are driving further innovation. The future of solar energy looks promising, with advancements like see-through solar cells and orbiting systems expected to revolutionize energy solutions for years to come.
https://triplepundit.com/2025/the-solar-revolution-has-only-just-begun/
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3D solar tower increases capacity factor 50%, triples solar surface area
Janta Power has secured $5.5 million in funding to develop its innovative vertical solar tower technology, currently being piloted at major global airports. These 3D solar towers offer high energy density for space-constrained areas and can be utilized in various applications like data centers, EV charging hubs, and industrial facilities. With a capacity factor 50% higher than traditional solar installations, the towers achieve a low levelized cost of electricity at $0.05 kWh. Their design allows for better alignment with energy demand and helps reduce stress on grids by providing smooth energy delivery throughout the day.
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World’s biggest isolated grid hits new peak of 89 per cent renewables, led by rooftop solar
Western Australia's South West Interconnected System has reached a record high of 89% renewables, led by rooftop solar, with plans to retire coal generators by 2029 and fill the gap with new wind and solar capacity. The grid is supported by large batteries to balance supply and demand, with the federal government seeking bids for 1.6 GW of new capacity. Winners will be announced in March or April next year, and support for independent media like Renew Economy is encouraged to promote accurate information and climate solutions. Giles Parkinson, founder and editor-in-chief of Renew Economy, is highlighted as a journalist with over 40 years of experience dedicated to supporting climate solutions through independent media.
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Native American Heritage Month: how Tribal Communities are leading the clean energy transition
The Zuni Youth Enrichment Project in New Mexico has installed a 27-kilowatt solar array at their youth center with support from Everybody Solar, generating over 48,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually to offset energy use and reduce carbon emissions. This clean energy project allows the organization to redirect energy savings towards expanding cultural education and wellness initiatives for Zuni youth and families, while also fostering community connections and sustainable futures. Tribal Nations, including ZYEP, are reclaiming control over their energy futures to reduce energy burden, insulate themselves from price volatility, and keep more dollars in the local economy, showcasing local leadership and energy sovereignty in action. Native communities are leading the way toward sustainability by investing in clean energy, strengthening cultural identity, expanding opportunity, and ensuring a livable planet for future generations.
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Japanese utility uses Sharp PV-linked home batteries for grid balancing
Tohoku Electric Power in Japan is utilizing Sharp's residential batteries and AI-powered energy management systems to balance grid demand and optimize household solar energy use. Customers can earn points redeemable for local products through the program, which learns household lifestyle patterns and solar power generation status to efficiently consume generated electricity and reduce electricity bills. The upgraded AI-based system by Sharp links residential solar power systems, storage batteries, home appliances, and electric vehicles for effective use of PV-generated electricity, allowing for remote control of batteries to adjust the balance of power supply and demand.
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TSEC unveils typhoon resistant glass-glass solar modules
TSEC unveiled new typhoon-resistant solar modules, Quantum and Alpha Pro, at the Energy Taiwan trade show with wind resistance ratings of 17 and 14 on the Beaufort scale, respectively. Efficiency ratings for the monocrystalline modules range from 21.5% to 23.2%, designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and corrosion. The company's goal is to combat the damage inflicted by Typhoon Dana on solar panels in Taiwan, offering climate solutions experts innovative technology to address the challenges of climate change.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/11/03/tsec-unveils-typhoon-resistant-glass-glass-solar-modules/
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First Solar Expands Its CdTe Solar Cell Footprint In The US
First Solar, a US firm, is expanding its operations to meet the demand for its CdTe solar cell technology, which has advantages in manufacturing costs and durability, leading to an increase in its share of the US utility-scale solar market. The US Department of Energy is promoting CdTe technology as a sustainable and economical form of photovoltaic technology, with a focus on efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, a research team at New York University developed a method to prevent damage to solar cells during manufacturing, increasing their electrical output by 13% and overall power generation. With supportive federal policies, the US solar industry could further benefit from advancements in CdTe technology, making solar energy the least expensive and fastest way to add power generation capacity to the nation's grid.