Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Buildings

Cut Emissions:
– Shift Energy Sources

  • 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/

  • Judge upholds DC gas hookup ban

    A court ruling in Washington D.C. has upheld building code amendments that prohibit new gas hookups, allowing for new and modified buildings to be constructed to a net-zero energy standard by 2027. The Energy Policy and Conservation Act does not prevent local governments from regulating energy consumption in specific locations, supporting the city's environmental goals and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This decision sets a precedent for other cities looking to implement similar climate solutions and demonstrates the legal authority of local governments to address energy consumption and emissions.

    https://www.eenews.net/articles/judge-upholds-dc-gas-hookup-ban-3/

  • Tesla advances plan to build 100 GW of U.S. PV manufacturing capacity by 2028

    Tesla is making strides towards deploying 100 GW of solar manufacturing in the U.S. by 2028, with a focus on developing new equipment and processes for energy products at a large scale. The company is in discussions with Chinese firms to purchase $2.9 billion worth of solar equipment, including screen-printing production lines. CEO Elon Musk has announced plans to achieve the 100 GW solar power target in the U.S. within three years, showcasing a commitment to expanding renewable energy solutions.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/24/tesla-moves-ahead-with-plan-for-100-gw-of-u-s-pv-manufacturing-capacity-by-2028/

  • Offshore wind’s cloudy day had a silver lining

    As climate solutions experts, it is crucial to focus on implementing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Additionally, investing in energy-efficient technologies and practices, such as improving building insulation and promoting public transportation, can significantly contribute to lowering carbon footprints. It is also important to prioritize sustainable agriculture and land use practices to mitigate the impacts of climate change. By adopting these solutions and working towards a more sustainable future, we can make a positive impact on the environment and combat the effects of climate change.

    https://www.eenews.net/articles/offshore-winds-cloudy-day-had-a-silver-lining-2/

  • MAGA Influencers Love Solar Power, And So Does Elon Musk

    Right wing pundits Katie Miller and KellyAnne Conway, along with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, have shown support for solar power. The US Department of Agriculture plays a significant role in administering grants and loan guarantees for farmers to save on energy costs through solar projects, with the REAP initiative providing opportunities for wind and solar power since 2002. However, under the Trump administration, there was a freeze on REAP disbursements, leading to a loss of over $1 billion in funds, and new restrictions imposed by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins limited opportunities for farmers. Tennessee has lost 9% of its farmland over a 20-year period, primarily due to real estate development, not solar industry growth, prompting the establishment of a $25 million fund to buy conservation easements from farmers. Trump has approved large solar projects in Nevada, with a push for solar power by conservative influencers and stakeholders in the AI industry, while Elon Musk plans to add 100 gigawatts of solar to the US grid and boost domestic solar manufacturing.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/21/maga-suddenly-loves-solar-power-but-will-brooke-rollins-get-the-memo/

  • New York Build Expo: Heat Pumps Take Center Stage

    The New York Build Expo showcased a focus on heat pumps, with big names like Midea, GE/Haier, and Daikin presenting various types for windows, interior use, and hot water. Challenges of integrating heat pumps into existing buildings were discussed, along with industry consolidation and limitations in very cold weather. The section also highlighted solar solutions in the context of climate solutions, including insights on New York City's Local Law 97 and the importance of tax credits and incentives. Additionally, creating a market for recycled plastic and sustainable materials like mass timber and foamed glass aggregate were emphasized, showing a shift towards a more environmentally friendly built environment in NYC.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/20/new-york-build-expo-heat-pumps-take-center-stage/

  • The Hormuz Shock & The Rise Of The Electrostate

    The section discusses the potential impact of a disruption in the Strait of Hormuz on the global energy system and economy, highlighting the interconnectedness of fossil fuel shocks with various sectors. Vulnerability to such disruptions is concentrated in Asia, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to domestic electricity sources. China's focus on domestic energy sources and food security is highlighted, showcasing the benefits of investing in renewable energy and electrification technologies. The section also explores the fragility of hydrocarbon dependence and the need to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources to enhance resilience and reduce reliance on imported fuel.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/19/the-hormuz-shock-the-rise-of-the-electrostate/

  • Thermochromic bifacial PV glazing system for reducing building cooling loads

    Researchers in Hong Kong have developed a novel thermochromic bifacial photovoltaic glazing system that passively regulates solar heat gain while harvesting energy from both sides. The system integrates hydrogel-based thermochromic layers with bifacial PV modules to reduce cooling loads, indoor temperatures, and energy consumption. The hydrogel transitions from transparent to translucent as temperature rises, reflecting light towards the rear side of the PV glass for enhanced electricity generation. The prototype system optimizes building energy use, reduces costs, and emissions by dynamically modulating solar transmission and capturing reflected energy. The design addresses limitations of previous hybrid solutions by combining PV glazing and hydrogel-based TC technology in a single system for advanced glazing applications. The research on TC‐BiPV glazing shows significant benefits in reducing direct solar heat gain and increasing electricity generation compared to other glazing options. Annual simulations indicate that TC‐BiPV can provide a gain of 9-18% for skylights and 6-14% for vertical windows. The system also reduces indoor heat gain and cooling loads, making it a practical solution for energy-efficient building envelopes in warm climates. The study highlights the scalability and passive nature of the TC‐BiPV approach, emphasizing its potential for climate solutions.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/19/thermochromic-bifacial-pv-glazing-system-for-reducing-building-cooling-loads/

  • GM Pivots Tennessee Battery Plant to Tap Energy Storage Boom

    The article highlights key climate solutions experts need to know, including the importance of renewable energy sources, carbon sequestration technologies, and sustainable agriculture practices. It emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation and policy changes to address climate change effectively. Additionally, the article discusses the role of innovation and investment in developing new technologies to combat climate change. Overall, the focus is on actionable solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change on a global scale.

    https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-17/gm-pivots-tennessee-battery-plant-to-tap-energy-storage-boom

  • Australia-backed rooftop solar to power remote Samoan communities

    An Australia-supported project in Samoa, a joint initiative of the Samoan Electric Power Corp. and various ministries, will bring clean energy to 108 households and five community centers through rooftop solar, batteries, and minigrid upgrades. Supported by the Australian government's REnew Pacific initiative, EPC will install solar panels and batteries on homes not connected to the grid, while also providing training on energy use. The project aims to empower villages, strengthen resilience, and provide universal access to clean energy in Samoa, showcasing a sustainable solution for climate action in the region.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/16/australia-backed-rooftop-solar-to-power-remote-samoan-communities/