Africa is facing a severe energy crisis with 600 million people lacking electricity access, exacerbated by fuel price spikes, debt distress, and food insecurity. Women are disproportionately affected, spending hours on unpaid care work. Afrika Vuka Week 2026 mobilized for clean energy advocacy rooted in people's power. The Week of Action focused on affordable renewable energy as a human right, with local communities demanding political accountability and a just energy transition. The REPower Afrika campaign emerged as a roadmap for transitioning towards community-owned renewable energy solutions, empowering African nations to lead their own energy transition. The call is for a renewable energy future that is fair, democratic, affordable, and free from debt, urging a shift towards community-led renewable energy to meet the needs of the people and build a sustainable future.
Category: Buildings & Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Energy Sources
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Texas Scores Another Solar Factory, Trump Or No Trump
TOYO Solar, a Japanese firm, is investing $357 million in a 1.5-gigawatt solar cell manufacturing facility in Texas to produce HJT solar cells, known for enhanced performance in hot climates. This move represents a significant step towards cleaner and more efficient solar energy production in the US. The company aims to meet domestic content requirements and strengthen the supply chain security of the US solar industry, which is thriving and outpacing fossil energy systems for new power generation capacity additions. By focusing on tandem solar cells that combine silicon and perovskites for durability and efficiency, TOYO is driving advancements in solar conversion efficiency and creating 400 direct jobs in the city.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/06/09/solar-cells-new-factory-texas-us-hjt-toyo/
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All solar cell efficiencies at a glance – updated
The latest edition of the Solar Cell Efficiency Tables, led by Professor Martin Green from UNSW, has been published as open access in the July 2026 issue of Joule. This version showcases record-breaking efficiencies for large area silicon cells and modules, advancements in lead halide perovskite cell development, and improvements in perovskite-silicon tandem cells and modules. Notable achievements include a 27.9%-efficient interdigitated-back-contact device developed by Longi. The research, which involves contributions from various institutions including the European Commission Joint Research Centre and the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, highlights the continuous growth and advancements in photovoltaic technology.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/06/08/all-solar-cell-efficiencies-at-a-glance-updated-7/
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Using a bird’s structural-color trick to color solar modules
Researchers in China have developed a method for coloring PV modules using quasi-ordered photonic pigments that scatter light instead of absorbing it, increasing efficiency. Inspired by blue-feathered birds, the team created silica-polyacrylate structural color pigments for the modules. By varying the size of silica microspheres, different colors were achieved, with PCE enhancements of over 50% compared to traditional absorbing pigments. A new study shows that colored PV modules integrated into facades can deliver a high energy yield in both high and low latitude locations, with potential for building-integrated photovoltaics with visually appealing and efficient results.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/06/08/using-a-birds-structural-color-trick-to-color-solar-modules/
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Document: Commission to set EU-wide smart meter targets
The European Commission is proposing binding EU-wide targets for the rollout of smart meters to lower power bills and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The draft proposal aims for at least 50% of households to have smart meters by 2030, increasing to 65% by 2033. Smart meters can help consumers adjust their consumption for lower prices and contribute to more affordable energy bills. The proposal also includes reforms to network charges to incentivize efficient use of electricity networks and reduce costly grid investments.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/document-commission-to-set-eu-wide-smart-meter-targets/
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Inside PV manufacturing: Sunmaxx’s PVT module factory in Germany
Sunmaxx has developed a scalable industrial solution for photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) technology with the world's largest mass-production facility in Ottendorf-Okrilla, Saxony. The facility operates on renewable electricity and has an annual production capacity of 120,000 modules, with potential for expansion. The PVT modules combine electricity generation with thermal energy capture, providing both electrical energy and low-temperature heat. The technology's heat exchanger, adapted from automotive applications, enables high energy efficiency exceeding 80% and can be used in various applications from homes to industrial facilities. The company's integrated electricity and heat generation technology reduces the need for multiple energy technologies and supports the electrification of building climate systems. It has the potential to reduce geothermal costs by capturing heat for ground regeneration, lowering installation expenses. Sunmaxx aims to expand internationally and position itself as a European player in hybrid renewable heating solutions as Europe phases out fossil fuels in the heating sector.
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Capital and carbon: Australian green finance pioneer Martijn Wilder honoured in King’s birthday awards
Martijn Wilder, a leader in sustainable finance and climate law, is focused on unlocking green capital through innovative financial tools. He has been recognized for his work in sustainable finance and is currently leading climate investment firm Pollination, playing key roles in public finance institutions to grow renewable energy in Australia. Despite global geopolitical challenges, Wilder remains optimistic about Australia's transition to a more innovative and resilient economy in the face of climate change.
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As energy costs rise, Pacific people look to the sun
Fijians are facing budgeting challenges due to increased fuel prices, prompting the pursuit of renewable energy targets to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Entrepreneurs like Pita Tamani are promoting solar energy as a sustainable solution, especially in rural areas, to alleviate rising living costs. The Solar Scholars training program in Fiji aims to empower Pacific community leaders to build and manage their own renewable energy infrastructure, reducing fossil fuel reliance and providing emergency energy during power outages. This initiative highlights the importance of transitioning towards renewable energy for a sustainable future in the Pacific region, emphasizing energy democracy and community-centered solutions.
https://350.org/as-energy-costs-rise-pacific-people-look-to-the-sun/
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World Cup venues achieve LEED sustainability certification
Thirteen out of the sixteen stadiums for the FIFA World Cup have achieved LEED certification, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. The certified stadiums have installed over 11,500 solar panels, saving water and reducing single-use plastics. FIFA has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. LEED-certified buildings, including sports venues, use less energy, reduce carbon emissions, and conserve water compared to conventional buildings. Several stadiums in the United States, including AT&T Stadium and MetLife Stadium, have achieved gold certification for their sustainability efforts in preparation for hosting matches during the upcoming World Cup, resulting in a 16% reduction in overall energy use.
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Al Gore on 20 Years of Progress and the Work Ahead
Climate solutions experts are focusing on initiatives like the Speed & Scale Action Plan and Global Week of Action to shape the world in the next 20 years, with a key strategy being the transition to electric vehicles. Ferrari's unveiling of the Luce, wind and solar energy outpacing natural gas, and China's pledge to buy deforestation-free beef all point towards the potential for renewables and sustainable practices. The Niño weather pattern strengthening, Denver's move to reduce carbon emissions, and Microsoft's commitment to carbon removals highlight the urgent need for climate action. Investment in renewable energy financing is expected to increase, while challenges remain in scaling climate-friendly alternatives and achieving energy independence.
https://speedandscale.com/newsletter/al-gore-on-20-years-of-progress-and-the-work-ahead/