Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Buildings

Cut Emissions:
– Shift Energy Sources

  • $7,000 for Rooftop Solar Permitting!? Time to Automate It

    Lawmakers in New York are pushing for automated permitting of rooftop solar power systems through SolarAPP+, a platform developed by the US government and the solar industry. This app-based system aims to streamline the permitting process, saving money and supporting the solar industry. The New York legislation would require municipalities with over 5,000 residents to implement automated solar permitting by June 30, 2027. The barriers to residential solar adoption in the US, such as slow and complex permitting processes, can add significant costs to installations. Kingston, New York, is highlighted as a leader in embracing automated permitting for residential solar, with the hope that other states will follow suit to continue growing SolarAPP+ adoption.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/06/14/7000-for-rooftop-solar-permitting-time-to-automate-it/

  • Turkey, Australia to push for global electrification goal at UN climate summit

    Turkey, as the host of COP31, is pushing for a collective target to electrify 35% of global energy use by 2035 in order to shield families and businesses from volatile energy markets, exacerbated by rising fossil fuel costs due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The electrification of daily life, including transport, buildings, and industry, is a central theme of the conference, with Turkey seeking to rally a global coalition to back this objective during their COP31 presidency.

    https://www.eenews.net/articles/turkey-australia-to-push-for-global-electrification-goal-at-un-climate-summit/

  • COP31 Presidency announces new targets on global electrification, cutting waste, resilient cities; press conference transcript

    At the UN June Climate Meetings in Bonn, the incoming COP31 Presidency of Türkiye announced new climate targets as part of its Global Climate Action Agenda launch. The targets include raising the share of final energy demand met by electricity to 35% by 2035, halving global waste growth by 2035, and reducing energy consumption intensity in the building sector by at least 25% by 2035. These targets are part of a framework for implementation to accelerate climate action and address the critical period the Earth is facing due to the climate crisis. The focus is on turning climate commitments into tangible actions through collaboration, dialogue, and effective implementation, with an emphasis on supporting countries in turning their climate goals into investable projects and ensuring that climate finance reaches the ground quickly and effectively. The ultimate goal is to move from dialogue to results in addressing the global challenge of climate change, with a strong emphasis on electrification, renewable energy, and transitioning to a circular economy to drive faster and fairer progress in combating the global climate crisis.

    https://unfccc.int/news/cop31-presidency-announces-new-targets-on-global-electrification-cutting-waste-resilient-cities

  • 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/

  • 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.

    https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-climate-change-sustainability-leed-green-buildings-91c6444de864c52902ec741a99b84833

  • What to expect from the Bonn climate talks

    The annual June climate talks in Bonn are crucial this year due to the oil and gas supply crisis, deadly heatwaves, and global economic and political instability caused by fossil fuel dependency. Key goals of the negotiations include supporting a just transition away from fossil fuels, funding adaptation to climate impacts, and demonstrating a shift towards climate action and clean energy on a global scale. The upcoming COP31 in Bonn will focus on key climate priorities such as a just transition mechanism away from fossil fuels, funding for adaptation to climate impacts, and shifting global finance flows to support a low-carbon world. Additionally, efforts are being made to accelerate the implementation of emissions-cutting and adaptation plans through initiatives like the Belém Mission to 1.5 and Global Implementation Accelerator. Brazil is also working on a roadmap to implement climate solutions, including phasing out fossil fuels and ending deforestation by 2030, with the establishment of a new rainforest fund to support these efforts.

    https://www.climatechangenews.com/2026/06/04/what-to-expect-from-the-bonn-climate-talks/

  • Energy Insiders Podcast: Tesla Energy boss on energy abundance, EVs, V2G and big and small batteries

    Tesla Energy's Asia Pacific boss Josef Tadich emphasizes the abundance of solar energy, the significance of batteries in different sizes, the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, and the introduction of vehicle-to-grid technology (V2G). This interview underscores the expanding role of renewable energy sources and the advancements in energy storage technology in the Asia Pacific region, impacting the energy market and paving the way for a more sustainable future.

    https://reneweconomy.com.au/energy-insiders-podcast-tesla-energy-boss-on-energy-abundance-evs-v2g-and-big-and-small-batteries/

  • Philadelphia clean energy campaign turned millions invested into billions saved. Here’s how.

    The Philadelphia Energy Campaign has successfully created over 11,000 jobs and $1.3 billion in economic investment since 2016, while also generating $1.4 billion in energy savings for the city and its residents. Programs like Built to Last and Solarize Greater Philadelphia have provided low-income homeowners with access to housing-repair and solar installation programs. Funding mechanisms such as Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and the Philadelphia Green Capital Corp have supported energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, blending public and private financing. Despite the loss of federal funding, the campaign remains resilient and focused on advancing climate solutions through collaboration and political support.

    https://www.utilitydive.com/news/philadelphia-energy-campaign-economic-impact-report/821584/

  • Connecticut Approves Plug-In Solar – It’s So Exciting!

    Connecticut is set to become the sixth state to allow plug-in solar panels, enabling residents to easily add renewable energy to their homes without costly connection agreements with utility companies. The legislation will allow for portable solar panels that can be plugged into household electrical sockets, ideal for renters, apartment dwellers, and those with restrictions on traditional rooftop solar installations. The bill also includes provisions for extending solar programs, establishing new rules for solar use, and implementing incentives for low-income community solar and residential energy storage. This move towards small-scale solar capacity is part of a broader effort to promote the development of residential, agricultural, and corporate solar power in Connecticut, with an aggregate target of 180 megawatts per year starting in 2028, ultimately aiming to lower utility bills, improve system reliability, and expand consumer protection while gradually introducing clean energy solutions.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/30/connecticut-approves-plug-in-solar-its-so-exciting/

  • Environmental News Network – New Approach to Urban Planning With Less Car Traffic and Lower Carbon Emissions

    A new study led by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research emphasizes the importance of reducing car commutes in urban areas to tackle greenhouse gas emissions. The research highlights the need for homes to be located close to city centers and workplaces, with well-targeted building densification identified as a critical lever in reducing emissions. Using data from major cities, the study found direct links between urban structure and car commuting patterns, suggesting that urban density and transport links play a secondary role. Planners can utilize GPS data, travel patterns, and artificial intelligence to determine effective measures to combat climate change by reducing car commutes.

    https://www.enn.com/articles/78040-new-approach-to-urban-planning-with-less-car-traffic-and-lower-carbon-emissions