Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Industry, Materials & Waste

Cut Emissions:
– Improve Materials
– Improve Processes
– Cut Fugitive Emissions
– Use Waste as a Resource
– Shift Energy Sources

  • Photovoltaics for cattle dung gasification

    An international team of researchers has developed a solar PV system that efficiently converts cattle dung into syngas, reducing CO2 emissions and demonstrating a net energy recovery of 40.17%. The system has a payback period of 3.75 years and can generate annual revenue of 98,703 PKR ($352.1) at a processing capacity of 5 kg/day. Gasification at 800 C was found to produce optimal syngas yields and is scalable for larger CAFOs. The study highlights the importance of system utilization, operational factors, and maintenance in determining the overall feasibility of biomass energy systems. Further research will focus on scaling up the system, optimizing syngas yield, and evaluating its performance in different environmental conditions.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/09/photovoltaics-for-cattle-dung-gasification/

  • Small 24/7 clean power commitments could cut costs for long-duration storage

    Early demand for 24/7 carbon-free electricity is driving the adoption of advanced energy technologies, reducing costs and making clean power commercially viable. Companies like Google are investing in this initiative, bridging the gap between early investment and commercial viability for emerging clean energy technologies. By committing to 24/7 clean power procurement, companies can incentivize the development of newer energy generation and storage technologies, leading to a virtuous cycle of investment and technological learning. This approach not only reduces emissions but also helps advanced technologies become more cost competitive, with studies showing significant cost reductions for technologies like lithium-ion batteries and iron-air batteries driven by carbon-free energy commitments.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/09/small-24-7-clean-power-commitments-could-cut-costs-for-long-duration-storage/

  • In Alaska, a Data Center Inside a Power Plant, Inside a Microgrid

    Cordova Electric Cooperative in Alaska has successfully implemented a local microgrid powered by hydropower and battery energy storage, reducing diesel imports and increasing local energy supply. Inspired by this success, they are now piloting a modular data center powered by localized energy from a hydroelectric facility. The data center is designed for resilience and efficiency, with a focus on distributing data processing and storage assets around geography. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and demonstrate the capabilities of edge-based data centers in supporting remote populations. Surplus hydropower is being used to power a local data center in Cordova, Alaska, providing computing capacity for various purposes and bringing data "inside the fence" for business and artificial intelligence applications. Lessons learned from microgrid-data center setups can help streamline data center investments and avoid excessive costs, with the DOE Office of Electricity researching advanced microgrid technologies to facilitate affordable and reliable electricity delivery for data centers. ARIES analysis is being used to answer key questions for connecting computers to power in both small-scale and hyperscale projects, showcasing the potential for localized energy solutions in addressing climate challenges.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/09/in-alaska-a-data-center-inside-a-power-plant-inside-a-microgrid/

  • China’s wind turbine giants just had their breakout year: BNEF rankings

    Chinese wind turbine manufacturers dominated global wind installations in a record-breaking year, surpassing western OEMs and claiming the top five rankings. This shift highlights the growing influence and competitiveness of Chinese companies in the renewable energy sector. Climate solutions experts should take note of this trend as it underscores the importance of investing in and supporting domestic renewable energy industries to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. Additionally, this development emphasizes the need for collaboration and knowledge-sharing between countries to drive innovation and scale up renewable energy deployment worldwide.

    https://www.rechargenews.com/suppliers/chinas-wind-turbine-giants-just-had-their-breakout-year-bnef-rankings/2-1-1956616

  • Fortescue forges ahead on Pilbara “real zero” goal with construction of state’s biggest solar farm

    Fortescue Metals is making significant progress in its renewable energy plans in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, with the construction of the 440 MW Solomon Airport solar farm and plans for additional solar farms. The company aims to achieve "real zero" emissions by 2030 by focusing on using solar and wind power, along with battery storage, to provide 24/7 firm power for its operations. Fortescue's efforts to reduce reliance on diesel and gas have been proven to be more economical through the use of solar energy. The potential for automation in solar panel installations could further simplify the process and make solar energy more accessible and widespread, contributing to climate solutions in the region.

    https://reneweconomy.com.au/fortescue-forges-ahead-on-pilbara-real-zero-plan-with-construction-of-states-biggest-solar-farm/

  • Ragn-Sells får kvalificerad “klimatlösning” enligt ERI:s Climate Solutions Framework

    Solvent Recycling Solutions (SRS) has been recognized as a "climate solution" by the Exponential Roadmap Initiative's Climate Solutions Framework, showcasing emission reductions of up to 81% in comparison to traditional solvent processes. This highlights the potential for SRS to significantly contribute to combating climate change through its innovative approach to solvent recycling. Experts in climate solutions should take note of SRS's promising impact on reducing emissions and consider incorporating this technology into their strategies for addressing climate change.

    https://exponentialroadmap.org/ragn-sells-far-kvalificerad-klimatlosning-enligt-eris-climate-solutions-framework/

  • Startup Aims To Help US Farmers With Green H2 & Wind Power

    The global green hydrogen industry is facing challenges, but solutions are emerging, such as efforts in the US to replace imported ammonia fertilizer with a domestic product. Startups like TalusAg are developing solar-powered green hydrogen-to-ammonia systems for local deployment, with plans for widespread application in agriculture. Two facilities in Minnesota and northern Iowa will produce green ammonia using electrolyzers powered by Blue Earth Light & Water, benefiting farmers by reducing fertilizer costs and allowing them to participate in overseas carbon markets. The project is supported by organizations like PepsiCo and the Minnesota Conservative Energy Forum, aiming to reduce curtailment, create revenue for rural counties, and strengthen industries while also reducing dependence on foreign supply chains. The initiative is seen as a valuable alternative to natural gas for fertilizer production, providing relief to farmers facing challenges such as rising fertilizer and fuel prices, trade wars, and labor shortages.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/06/green-hydrogen-can-help-us-farmers-fix-wind-powers-curtailment-problem-too/

  • South African rare earths project aims to rival Chinese with low-cost model

    A rare earths mining project in South Africa, the Zandkopsdrift project, aims to challenge China's dominance in global supply chains by producing magnet rare earths and battery-grade manganese for clean energy technologies at a lower cost. The project aligns with South Africa's goal to become a key supplier of critical minerals for the clean energy transition, focusing on responsible mining practices and meeting higher standards through the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance. While promising, the untested processing route and concerns over past environmental abuses have left some locals wary of who will truly benefit from the economic promises of the project. Steps such as water-recycling systems, local procurement targets, and involving local communities in ownership are being taken to address these concerns and ensure a sustainable and responsible approach to mining critical minerals for clean energy solutions.

    https://www.climatechangenews.com/2026/03/06/south-african-rare-earths-project-aims-to-rival-chinese-with-low-cost-model/

  • Zero waste is the real climate solution, not waste incineration

    The negative impacts of waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration on the climate, environment, and public health are highlighted in the article, emphasizing how it accelerates climate pollution, releases toxic air pollution and hazardous ash, and hinders the transition to a circular, low-carbon economy. The industry's portrayal of criticism as emotional rather than science-based is criticized, along with the disproportionate placement of incinerators in marginalized communities, raising environmental justice concerns. Wealthier neighborhoods tend to avoid incinerators, leaving poorer communities to bear the pollution and risks, while zero waste systems create more jobs and economic benefits. Governments and cities are shifting towards circular, low-carbon waste systems, recognizing the benefits of zero waste solutions for climate action, public health, and economic justice, ensuring a just, inclusive, and sustainable transition to a low-carbon world.

    https://350.org/zero-waste-is-the-real-climate-solution-not-waste-incineration/

  • UK government issues open call for experts to shape AI energy policy

    The UK government is seeking AI and energy specialists to identify datasets that can enhance the efficiency, security, and digitization of the energy system. Access to high-quality data is essential for leveraging AI to drive efficiencies and transform operations, with applications such as grid optimization and predicting renewable generation. The call aims to address barriers to accessing data for AI applications in the energy sector, focusing on reducing costs, improving energy security, and supporting economic growth. Companies developing AI and digital products for the energy sector are encouraged to apply and share their expertise to drive innovation and sustainability in the industry.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/03/uk-government-open-call-for-evidence-ai-energy-policy-data/