Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Other Energy

Cut Emissions:
– Cut Fugitive Emissions

  • DIY plug-in solar shows $0.65/W potential in US market

    The emergence of plug-in solar power offers a way for renters and apartment dwellers to cut their utility bills with solar energy. The technology allows for easy installation by amateurs and can be plugged into existing outlets. While regulations around plug-in solar are not clearly defined in many places, the market is growing, with Europe serving as a model for the US. Kits are available for purchase, with prices reflecting a mature and active market. The section also discusses the challenges and solutions encountered during the installation of DIY solar panels, highlighting the potential for cost-effective solutions in the solar energy market.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/30/diy-plug-in-solar-shows-0-65-w-potential-in-us-market/

  • 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/

  • UK’s first community-owned solar battery seeks investors

    Low Carbon Hub is seeking investors for a 12 MWh battery energy storage system to be added to the Ray Valley Solar project in the UK, making it the first community-owned co-located battery in the country. The developer has raised over GBP 10 million in community investment and is now looking for GBP 500,000 to fund the battery. Shares in the project are available for purchase starting at GBP 100, providing an opportunity for individuals to invest in a sustainable energy solution that will contribute to reducing carbon emissions in the UK.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/27/uks-first-community-owned-solar-battery-seeks-investors/

  • Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind begins delivering power

    The 2.6-GW Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, the largest offshore wind farm in the U.S., has begun delivering power to the grid despite delays caused by the Trump administration. With bipartisan support and additional turbines planned for installation, Virginia is poised to become a major player in offshore wind energy. The company behind the project emphasizes the importance of avoiding delays to minimize costs and maintain progress in the data center capital of the world. Despite missed deadlines, there is political momentum and stakeholder support for the project to move forward, highlighting the optimism for the project's current standing.

    https://www.utilitydive.com/news/coastal-virginia-offshore-wind-begins-delivering-power/815874/

  • From Fuel Shock to Financial Stability in Hawaiʻi

    Hawai'i is looking to transition to a more sustainable energy system to reduce its reliance on imported fuels and lower costs. The state's decarbonization report shows that the transition will be cheaper in the long run compared to continuing with the current system. Investments in utility-scale renewables, batteries, grid upgrades, and other infrastructure will be necessary, but the declining costs of core technologies like solar and storage make the transition feasible. By shifting towards local renewable energy sources, Hawai'i can reduce its fuel-driven electricity prices and create a more resilient and cost-effective energy system. The state's financing strategy includes securitizing clean-energy finance and supporting distributed investment at scale, with a focus on utility-scale assets, major grid upgrades, and various financing options for different sectors.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/26/from-fuel-shock-to-financial-stability-in-hawai%CA%BBi/

  • Here Comes More Lithium For EV Batteries, Made In The USA

    EnergyX, a US startup, is making strides in producing battery-grade lithium domestically using Direct Lithium Extraction technology, with support from the US Department of Energy and private investors. Their demonstration plant in Texas is set to produce 250 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent annually, focusing on cost optimization for EV battery production. The Project Lonestar facility aims to enhance US energy security and defense readiness by supplying critical materials for military technology, highlighting the importance of domestic production for national security. The push for more electric vehicles in the US military underscores the need for alternative supply lines for critical minerals, reducing reliance on China and boosting the US's position in the global lithium refining industry.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/26/here-comes-more-lithium-for-ev-batteries-made-in-the-usa/

  • Schumer rolls out Dems’ midterm energy pitch

    Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has unveiled a comprehensive five-point energy and climate change agenda that focuses on affordability, clean energy, and job creation. The plan includes reinstating clean energy tax incentives, easing permitting for zero-emissions energy sources like wind and solar, and highlighting the affordability of clean energy. Schumer aims to position Democrats as the leaders in the fight against climate change while also addressing economic concerns, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions for both the environment and the economy.

    https://www.eenews.net/articles/schumer-rolls-out-dems-midterm-energy-pitch/

  • Rust-powered batteries could help crack Europe’s energy storage gap

    A Dutch startup, Ore Energy, has developed iron-air batteries that can store and release electricity using a simple chemical process of rusting and de-rusting, offering a cheaper and critical mineral-free alternative to traditional lithium batteries. As Europe aims to reduce its reliance on critical mineral supply chains and increase battery production for renewable energy storage and electric vehicles, the need for long-duration storage batteries is becoming increasingly important. Companies like Ore Energy, Form Energy, Noon Energy, and E-Zinc are working on innovative long-duration energy storage technologies, with a mix of different technologies seen as necessary to support grid reliability as renewable energy sources grow. Europe must find sustainable solutions for long-duration storage to avoid overbuilding, curtailment, and backup generation challenges in transitioning to cleaner energy sources and achieving climate goals.

    https://www.climatechangenews.com/2026/03/26/rust-powered-batteries-could-help-crack-europes-energy-storage-gap/

  • 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/

  • South Australia on path to 100 pct net renewables next year after Labor landslide and Liberal backflip

    South Australia's Liberal government, which aimed for 100% net renewables, lost power to Labor in 2022 and was further weakened in the 2026 election due to indecision on net zero and the energy transition. Labor, now in charge, plans to achieve the 100% renewables target by 2027 through new wind and solar farms, batteries, and a connection to New South Wales. South Australia will become the first gigawatt-scale grid to reach this milestone using wind and solar as the sole renewable sources, supported by batteries and gas-fired generation. Additionally, the state is leading in consumer energy integration, attracting interest from energy-intensive industries and presenting a significant economic opportunity for the development of renewable resources and new industries.

    https://reneweconomy.com.au/south-australia-on-path-to-100-pct-net-renewables-next-year-after-labor-landslide-and-liberal-backflip/