Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Buildings

Cut Emissions:
– Shift Energy Sources

  • 57 Countries Meet to Up Ambition on Climate

    A new coalition of 57 countries met in Colombia to address global decarbonization and create a framework for a clean energy transition, excluding fossil fuel interests. The coalition aims to phase out coal, oil, and gas and accelerate progress at future COPs. Three voluntary "workstreams" were adopted to develop national and regional roadmaps, revamp the global financial system, and facilitate a fossil-fuel-free trade system. The coalition plans to continue exploring the art of the possible to benefit future climate negotiations and the global drive to net zero. Geopolitical shocks and disrupted oil flows are prompting import-dependent economies to accelerate shifts in energy strategy towards clean alternatives, highlighting the need for more efficient use of existing crops and the competition for clean energy technologies.

    https://speedandscale.com/newsletter/57-countries-meet-to-up-ambition-on-climate/

  • What to Expect at the Santa Marta Climate Conference

    Colombia and the Netherlands are co-hosting the Santa Marta conference to address the climate crisis by transitioning away from fossil fuels in a just and equitable manner. At least 50 countries and the EU will participate in developing evidence-based policies aligned with recent climate change rulings. The conference aims to overcome barriers such as fossil fuel subsidies and national debt, with a focus on transforming energy supply and demand. Success will be measured by expanding the coalition of states committed to phasing out fossil fuels and creating a dedicated forum for continued action, potentially influencing COP31. Led by nations most impacted by climate change, the conference aims to prioritize practical cooperation to address urgent climate challenges.

    https://drilled.media/news/santa-marta-preview

  • Geothermal Energy Developer Fervo Raises $1.89 Billion in US IPO

    The article highlights key climate solutions experts need to know, including the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing sustainable practices in industries, and investing in green technologies. It emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the article stresses the significance of protecting and restoring ecosystems, such as forests and wetlands, to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Overall, the focus is on practical solutions and collaborative efforts to combat the climate crisis effectively.

    https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-05-12/geothermal-energy-developer-fervo-raises-1-89-billion-in-us-ipo

  • Santa Marta was a learning moment for how to shape inclusive just transitions

    The Global Conference on Transitioning away from Fossil Fuels in Santa Marta emphasized the need for science-based evidence and practical action to address the impacts of fossil fuel dependence. Recommendations included stronger collaborative governance, support for local actors, and redesigning regulatory frameworks to prioritize social and justice programs. The event highlighted the importance of transitioning to renewable energy while ensuring financial resources are directed where they are most needed. The section also emphasized the importance of including local communities, social dialogue, and public participation in Just Transition strategies, with a focus on concrete action, binding commitments, and finance prioritizing people and the planet to achieve socially just and locally relevant transition strategies.

    https://www.climatechangenews.com/2026/05/11/santa-marta-was-a-learning-moment-for-how-to-shape-inclusive-just-transitions/

  • Workforce installs last of 609,522 panels at major new solar and battery project

    The Broadsound solar farm and big battery project in central Queensland, located on Barada Kabalbara Yetimarala People land, is nearing completion with all 609,522 solar panels installed. The project includes a 377 MW solar component and a 180 MW/360 MWh battery, part of Iberdrola Australia's plan to invest between €2 and €3 billion into Australia's clean energy transition. The company aims to build a 4 GW renewable energy portfolio, with additional onshore wind and solar farms in Australia, including the 3 GW Aurora Green Offshore Wind project in Victoria. This project highlights the significant progress being made in transitioning to renewable energy sources to combat climate change.

    https://reneweconomy.com.au/workforce-installs-last-of-609522-panels-at-major-new-solar-and-battery-project/

  • Solar Insiders Podcast: The small company taking giant steps to close the energy gap

    Lauren Mellor and Chantelle Johns from Original Power are empowering First Nations communities in the Northern Territory by giving them control over their energy sources and promoting renewable energy solutions to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Their mission aims to address climate change impacts and create sustainable, resilient communities, emphasizing the importance of indigenous-led climate solutions in the fight against climate change.

    https://reneweconomy.com.au/solar-insiders-podcast-the-small-company-taking-giant-steps-to-close-the-energy-gap/

  • $3.2 Million Awarded For Tribal Solar Projects

    Tribal Energy Alternatives has been awarded $3.2 million in grant funding to support solar energy access, workforce development, and energy resilience for Tribal Nations. The installations, which involve tribal contractors and trainees, aim to achieve energy independence and self-sufficiency through clean energy solutions, potentially saving $3,300 annually on utility bills. Additionally, over 500 tribal members have been supported in clean energy careers through training programs. This initiative highlights the importance of renewable energy sources in promoting sustainability and economic growth within Tribal Nations.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/02/3-2-million-awarded-for-tribal-solar-projects/

  • In Colombia, 57 Nations Chart A Path To A Future Without Fossil Fuels

    The recent climate talks in Colombia brought together nearly sixty nations to develop national "road maps" to end the production and use of fossil fuels, marking a departure from the annual UN climate negotiations. The event focused on practical steps to transition away from fossil fuels, with positive feedback from attendees. The head of the International Energy Agency noted that the war in Iran has irreparably damaged fossil fuel markets, leading countries towards renewable energy sources. France announced plans to phase out fossil fuels, and a "coalition of the willing" countries aims to accelerate the retreat from fossil fuels. The impact of the conference may depend on government implementation of policies and the participation of more countries in future efforts.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/04/30/in-colombia-57-nations-chart-a-path-to-a-future-without-fossil-fuels/

  • What fossil fuels really cost us in a world at war

    Anne Jellema of 350.org discusses the devastating impact of the war on Iran and Lebanon on global economy and households, with potential costs exceeding $1 trillion in adverse scenarios. The fossil fuel crisis is draining households and economies worldwide, with $158-$166 billion already extracted due to soaring prices, highlighting the urgent need for a global shift towards affordable clean energy solutions to address energy poverty and reduce dependence on costly and unsustainable fossil fuels. Governments should implement windfall taxes on fossil fuel companies, shift subsidies towards renewable solutions, and accelerate the rollout of clean energy technologies like solar and wind to create a more stable, fair, and resilient energy system.

    https://www.climatechangenews.com/2026/04/30/what-fossil-fuels-really-cost-us-in-a-world-at-war/

  • New Records Set in the Renewable Energy Marathon

    Renewable energy is leading the way in global energy supply growth, with solar being the largest contributor in 2025. The world installed a record amount of wind and solar in 2025, with projections showing that solar, wind, and energy storage will make up the majority of new energy capacity in the coming years. This shift towards clean energy is expected to continue, phasing out fossil fuels and accelerating the transition to a clean energy future. The increase in wind generation is breaking records in California and other regions, showing the potential for continued growth in wind power. The growth of renewables is crucial in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate change.

    https://blog.ucs.org/john-rogers/new-records-set-in-the-renewable-energy-marathon/