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.
Category: Buildings
Cut Emissions:
– Shift Energy Sources
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Pii Energy unveils plug-in 1.2 kW solar, 2 kWh home system
Pii Energy has introduced the Edge 2000, a plug-in solar-plus-storage kit priced at around USD 2,400, catering to renters and apartment residents. The kit features 1.2 kW of solar panels, a 2 kWh battery backup, smart outlets, a Raspberry Pi-driven smart system controller, and all necessary wiring for installation. With the ability to detect breaker masking conditions for safety, this innovation provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for residential solar energy needs.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/16/pii-energy-unveils-plug-in-1-2-kw-solar-2-kwh-home-system/
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When Fossil Fuel Supplies Falter, Interest In Renewables Increases
Cuba has rapidly transitioned to solar and wind power with assistance from China, increasing solar energy generation to over 20 percent in just 12 months to address US sanctions cutting off oil supply from Venezuela. The country aims to achieve energy independence by 2028 with up to 600 megawatts of battery storage, rendering the US oil blockade economically irrelevant. This transition showcases one of the fastest energy transitions achieved by a developing nation and could serve as a model for other countries facing energy crises. The conflict in the Middle East has also led to an increase in interest in personal renewable energy solutions, such as solar installations, home batteries, and EV chargers, signaling a potential tipping point for the world to embrace renewables.
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Dennis Schroeder / Department of Energy 16 Mar 2026 UN Climate Chief in Brussels: fossil fuel dependency is ripping away national security and sovereignty, but renewables turn the tables UN Climate Speech
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasizes the negative impacts of fossil fuel dependency on national security, sovereignty, and economies, advocating for a shift to renewable energy for a more cost-effective, secure, and sustainable solution. Europe has a unique opportunity to lead in climate action and attract investment by embracing green growth, transitioning away from fossil fuels, upgrading grids, and supporting the Emissions Trading Scheme. The EU has been driving ambition at COPs and urges continued support for the process, with significant commitments made at COP30 and plans to continue progress at COP31 in Türkiye. Companies are coming to COPs to secure agreements that tackle the climate crisis and benefit their bottom lines, while the EU is building new partnerships to invest in value chains in partner countries and strengthen alliances for peace and prosperity in the face of climate change.
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UN climate chief attacks “delusional” fossil fuel investments
UN climate chief Simon Stiell warns against doubling down on fossil fuels in response to spikes in oil and gas prices caused by the Iran war, emphasizing the economic irrationality of new investments compared to the benefits of renewable energy. The current crisis is seen as a crucial moment to ramp up pressure against fossil fuels and prioritize renewable energy investments. Europe's dependence on fossil fuel imports is highlighted as a vulnerability, but the rollout of new wind and solar power capacity since the Green Deal in 2019 has saved billions of euros. This shift towards renewables is crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.
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Orsted’s US project twice targeted by Trump delivers first power
Orsted's Revolution Wind project has successfully sent its first power to the New England grid, marking the start of commercial operations and a shift towards renewable energy sources. This milestone signifies progress in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate change by providing clean energy. The project's successful transmission of power demonstrates the advancement towards a more sustainable energy future in New England.
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Renewable energy is a clear solution to the fossil fuel cost chaos: Statement from UN Climate Change Executive Secretary
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell stressed the urgent need for a transition to renewables due to the negative impacts of fossil fuel dependence on economies and people. Despite renewables becoming cheaper and faster-to-market, the transition is still too slow, particularly in developing nations that require more support. Stiell emphasized the importance of avoiding further escalation and protecting civilian lives, highlighting the critical role of accelerating the shift to renewable energy sources globally.
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New model reveals pathway for land-efficient U.S. solar expansion
McGill University researchers utilized deep-learning computer vision to analyze 719 solar projects in the Western U.S., setting a new "land-sparing" benchmark for developers. The study revealed a link between geographic irradiance and land efficiency, showing that sunnier regions and compact system designs result in higher energy density. A global study further emphasized the potential for rooftop solar integration, indicating that targeted policy could make it more cost-effective than ground-mounted systems. These findings underscore the importance of strategic land management and integrating solar into the built environment to help achieve net-zero targets and minimize environmental impact.
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The Important Role That Black Communities Play In Addressing Climate Change
Black Climate Week, organized by The Solutions Project and NAACP, aims to support Black-led climate solutions and amplify success stories. Strategies such as agroforestry, zero-emission buildings, renewable energy sources, and plant-based diets are highlighted as steps towards a net zero future. Black-led organizations are securing policy victories and developing clean energy projects to reduce carbon emissions. The NAACP is advocating for renewable energy and financial responsibility for climate-related costs, while supporting youth through programs like the Young Black Climate Leaders Dream Lab. The Solutions Project, a nonprofit organization, supports grassroots climate organizations led by women and people of color with grants and communications support, while the NAACP advocates for civil rights for Black America, focusing on racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies for marginalized communities. Both organizations are committed to creating a world without racism and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.