A new report suggests that countries have a chance to limit global warming to 2C by the end of the century if they take serious action towards achieving net zero goals, with solar energy projected to become the world's largest generator of electricity by 2032. This shift towards solar energy is seen as a key step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change, as countries move towards energy self-sufficiency.
Category: Buildings & Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Energy Sources
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JUSTIFI Tool Could Unlock Value in Energy Productivity Projects
The National Laboratory of the Rockies and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a free software tool called JUSTIFI to help manufacturers assess the full value of energy improvement projects, including productivity gains and safety improvements. By quantifying these benefits, businesses can strengthen the business case for projects, reduce payback periods, and align with strategic objectives. The tool has been well-received, with over 1,000 users trying it since its beta release in April 2025. Users can access JUSTIFI to build a complete business case for their energy productivity projects without needing formal training.
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Australia installs 400,000 home batteries in 10 months for 11.2 GWh
Australia has seen a surge in consumer-led energy storage with over 400,000 batteries installed in the past 10 months, totaling 11.2 GWh of storage capacity. The Cheaper Home Batteries program by the Australian government has been successful in promoting the adoption of rooftop solar and cleaner energy systems. Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen highlighted the positive impact of the program on reducing energy bills and supporting the grid. The initiative offers up to 30% discount on battery installation costs, with a tiered scheme based on battery size to encourage households to choose the right-sized battery. The program aims to deploy over 2 million batteries by 2030, contributing to a cleaner and more reliable energy system in Australia.
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Solar will be largest power generator in “much changed” world by 2032, but battery storage is the big mover
Solar energy is projected to become the world's largest generator of electricity by 2032, driven by falling prices, battery storage, and electrification. The BloombergNEF New Energy Outlook for 2026 highlights the shift towards renewable energy and electricity-led era, emphasizing the importance of electrification, particularly in the transportation sector. BNEF forecasts that solar will become the largest zero-carbon source by the end of the decade and the single largest source of power generation by 2032. The report also underscores the need for significant global low-carbon investment to transition to cleaner energy systems, with a focus on achieving a Net Zero Scenario by 2050 through the deployment of viable technologies at scale and at a lower cost than fossil fuel alternatives.
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Neighborhood Battery Combined With Solar & EV Chargers
Community solar power and battery projects, like the one in Clifton Hill, Australia, are expanding access to clean electricity for renters, apartment dwellers, and EV drivers. By utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower, these projects not only reduce strain on the electricity network but also lower power prices. Electric vehicles play a crucial role in the transition to clean energy by storing electricity to support homes and grids, offering a sustainable alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles that rely on dirty fuels.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/18/neighborhood-battery-combined-with-solar-ev-chargers/
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European Energy begins work Italy’s 225.5MW agrivoltaic project
European Energy is constructing a 225.5MW agrivoltaic project in Sicily, Italy, under Italy's FER X Transitional Contract for Difference auction scheme. The facility is projected to generate 405GWh of electricity annually, powering 135,000 households by integrating solar energy generation with agricultural practices like sheep grazing and reforestation. With a focus on long-term revenue stability and integrated land-use solutions, European Energy aims to develop robust renewable energy projects. The company's strong development pipeline in Italy has attracted significant investor interest in large-scale renewable energy projects.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/european-energy-begins-work-italys-agrivoltaic-project/
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States warm to balcony solar
Plug-in solar technology, also known as balcony solar, is gaining momentum in the renewable energy sector with new laws in four states making it easier for households to install solar panels that deliver power directly into a home outlet. Cheaper and easier to install than rooftop solar, plug-in solar systems are seen as a way for renters to cut their electricity bills. Interest in these systems has increased due to spiking energy prices. Supporters believe plug-in solar could help shift U.S. culture towards renewables, with prices expected to drop as the market expands.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/states-warm-to-balcony-solar/
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14 New EV Chargers To Be Installed In Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado is expanding its public EV charging infrastructure with 14 new chargers at seven sites, adding to the existing 24 ports in the city. The move to electrification is seen as crucial in addressing climate change impacts and rising gas prices. The total cost for the new chargers is estimated at $217,297.08, making them affordable for the city. Electric vehicles can be charged with clean, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal, aligning with Aspen's 100% renewable energy goal and supporting the transition away from fossil fuels.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/17/14-new-ev-chargers-to-be-installed-in-aspen-colorado/
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A detailed look at offshore wind in the US and globally
President Trump's decision to halt offshore wind projects in the U.S. contradicts the global trend of embracing offshore wind as a clean energy solution. Despite this, the U.S. has three operational offshore wind farms and more in development, with China leading the world in offshore wind capacity. Projects like Vineyard Wind and Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind are crucial for producing clean energy and saving customers money on electricity bills. The financial impact of halting these projects includes a $10 billion loss in jobs and investments, as well as missed energy savings for ratepayers. Offshore wind development has brought $25.5 billion in investments to the U.S. and supports 18,000 jobs in the industry.
https://apnews.com/article/offshore-wind-energy-climate-trump-b8be5561c56d8932ef97fcbec9062fe1
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“Remarkable milestone:” Bowen says home battery installations continue to surge, pass 400,000
Energy and climate minister Chris Bowen celebrates the success of the federal government's home battery rebate scheme, with over 400,000 installations in just over 10 months. Home batteries are helping to lower wholesale electricity prices and reduce the use of gas and coal during nighttime hours, with smaller batteries now favored over larger ones. The surge in home batteries and rooftop solar installations, highlighted by the CER's executive general manager Carl Binning, will help Australia meet its renewable energy target by 2030. To stay updated on clean energy news and support independent media, readers can subscribe to the free daily newsletter from Renew Economy and consider making donations or becoming regular supporters.