California's strong climate policies, such as Cap and Invest, have made the state more resilient to global price shocks impacting gas prices. By regulating vehicles more stringently than the federal government, California has seen a reduction in toxic air pollution, heat-trapping emissions, and gasoline demand. The state's progress in increasing clean electricity usage has contributed to a 15% drop in gasoline demand since 2005, resulting in significant savings. Continuing ambitious climate and clean energy policies, along with updates to programs like Cap and Invest, are crucial for protecting Californians' wallets and health while advancing climate solutions and making the state more resilient to global events.
Category: Transportation
Cut emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift to Alternatives
– Electrify Vehicles
– Switch Fuels
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Major oil producers among 46 nations joining fossil fuel phase-out summit
Forty-six countries, including major oil, coal, and gas producers such as Canada, Australia, Brazil, and Norway, will attend a conference in Santa Marta to accelerate the global shift from fossil fuels. The summit aims to create an international coalition committed to ending reliance on oil, coal, and natural gas, with a focus on prioritizing science and phasing out fossil fuel production and consumption. Notably absent are the United States and Saudi Arabia, while vulnerable nations like Palau and Sierra Leone are in attendance. The outcomes of the conference will inform discussions at COP31 and provide a roadmap for transitioning away from fossil fuels, with campaigners seeing it as an opportunity to showcase credible transitions and build momentum for global action. Colombia views the current global energy shock as a chance to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.
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DOE, Amazon team tap AI for mineral recycling effort
The Department of Energy and Amazon are teaming up to utilize artificial intelligence in recovering and recycling minerals such as battery-grade graphite from discarded clothing and waste, with a focus on producing key ingredients for electric vehicle batteries. This partnership also includes exploring the recovery of critical minerals like gallium from used electronics hardware, aiming to transform the domestic critical materials supply chain and reduce reliance on China for raw materials. By tapping into waste streams, this initiative seeks to secure valuable minerals for sustainable solutions and advance towards a more environmentally friendly future.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/doe-amazon-team-tap-ai-for-mineral-recycling-effort/
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The US Is Sitting On 161 Gigawatts Of Wind Farm Capacity
Repowering older wind farms in the US with new, more efficient turbines could add an additional 161 gigawatts in capacity without requiring additional land. This process involves replacing outdated equipment with new rotors, blades, and taller turbine towers to increase capacity, reduce operating expenses, neighbor complaints, and wildlife impacts, while freeing up land for other purposes. Wind repowering is highlighted as a key strategy to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy in the United States, with the potential to more than double the capacity of existing wind farms by 2024. The importance of repowering projects in addressing societal factors, regulation, and development principles is noted, emphasizing the need for a negotiated process between communities and developers to unlock the full potential of wind energy. Trump's policies are mentioned but wind energy continues to grow and play a key role in the nation's energy mix, with utility-scale solar and storage leading the way in capacity additions for 2026.
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Peak load tipped to double as industries flock to Australia’s world-first 100 pct renewables grid
South Australia is experiencing a surge in electricity demand due to the growth of industries attracted by its high level of renewables. With around 75% of its electricity already sourced from wind and solar, the state aims to achieve 100% "net" renewables by next year. To support this expansion and accommodate increased load from industries like mining and data centers, ElectraNet predicts the need for new transmission lines. Projects such as the south-east transmission line and the proposed Northern Transmission project are crucial in connecting new generation and storage to existing customer demand, supporting electrification, and facilitating industrial expansion. Giles Parkinson emphasizes the importance of these initiatives in enabling clean energy growth in South Australia.
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Battery costs have declined by 99% in the last three decades, making electrified transport a reality
Battery costs have declined by 99% in the last three decades, with over 20 million electric cars sold globally in 2025 at prices as low as $10,000. The global cumulative production of batteries has increased significantly since 1991, with prices dropping by roughly 19% every time production doubled. Cheaper storage solutions, particularly lithium-ion batteries, have enabled the widespread adoption of renewable energy and electrified transport, transforming the industry from niche technology to mainstream use. The decline in battery costs has made electrified transport a reality, with batteries now powering cars, homes, and power grids worldwide, emphasizing the importance of continued innovation in this area for a low-carbon energy system.
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Stand-alone solar and battery-powered level crossings deliver an Australian first for regional rail
Two new solar-powered level crossings have been unveiled as part of the Inland Rail freight rail link project in northern New South Wales, marking a significant advancement for the country's rail network. By utilizing solar and battery power, the project avoids the need for grid-connected electricity, reducing the impact on local communities and the environment. The Australian Rail Track Corporation plans to deploy more solar-powered systems along the alignment once Inland Rail becomes operational. The article also emphasizes the importance of addressing climate change to mitigate the impacts of rising sea levels on coastal communities, highlighting the need for adaptation strategies such as building seawalls and restoring wetlands.
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No Kings III Protesters Argue That We Must Protect The Planet
Climate solutions experts are facing a range of challenges and opportunities in the fight against climate change. The No Kings III protests are gaining momentum globally, rejecting fossil fuel lobby influence and advocating for decarbonization. Despite Arctic sea ice reaching record lows and Trump's climate science denial, there is a push for progress through initiatives like Tesla's solar panel manufacturing plans and advocacy for Green Amendments. Women leaders are playing significant roles in addressing climate change impacts, while public support for solar energy is strong, even in red-voting states. It is crucial for experts to continue advocating for clean energy, fighting against anti-environment policies, and working towards a sustainable future for all.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/29/no-kings-iii-protesters-argue-that-we-must-protect-the-planet/
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14 Electric Vehicles Costing Less Than $42,000, Or Much Less
The section discusses the affordability of electric vehicles (EVs) compared to traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles, highlighting various new EV models with lower price points. It mentions potential discounts, state EV incentives, and dealer discounts that can further reduce the cost of purchasing an EV. The section also emphasizes the long-term cost savings of owning an EV, such as lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance needs, and environmental benefits. Overall, it argues that EVs are a more cost-effective and sustainable transportation option compared to traditional vehicles.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/29/14-electric-vehicles-costing-less-than-42000-or-much-less/
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An Update On Electric Vehicle Batteries And Innovations In The Sector
The Republican-controlled US Congress rescinded a $7,500 federal EV tax credit, causing an initial drop in EV sales, but the US/Israel war against Iran has reignited demand for electric vehicles. Innovations in the EV battery sector, such as BYD's cell-to-body architecture, are driving rising consumer interest in EVs. Forecasts predict plummeting battery prices will make battery EVs cheaper than traditional vehicles in Europe within two to four years. Automakers are shifting to LFP batteries to avoid supply chain complexities and improve performance, while research is ongoing for massless and solid-state EV batteries. There is a growing market for used EV batteries to be repurposed for energy storage, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for new mining of key minerals. Recycling EV batteries is crucial for a sustainable transportation system, with a focus on high mineral recovery rates and low environmental impact. Misinformation about EVs can hinder the transition to electric mobility, but advancements in battery technology and management systems are improving the longevity and performance of EV batteries. Real-world driving habits can significantly impact the lifespan of EV batteries, with proper use potentially extending their longevity by about a third. Researchers have found that actual driving situations can help extend the life of electric vehicle batteries, such as frequent acceleration, braking, and letting the batteries rest for hours at a time. Charging the vehicle with a low to medium charge level for long parking periods also decreases battery aging rates. The US Department of Energy is focusing on a Made-in-the-USA solution called DLE (Direct Lithium Extraction) using geothermal brine. In July 2023, the agency awarded funds to 10 innovators in the DLE field, including EnergyX, with a $5 million award.