Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Transportation

Cut emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift to Alternatives
– Electrify Vehicles
– Switch Fuels

  • Some Ho, Ho, Hopes for 2026 and Beyond

    In 2026 and beyond, advancements in clean energy, climate action, and innovation offer hope for addressing climate change. Key themes include focusing on the business case for clean energy, increasing public funding for climate technologies, utilizing AI for innovation and energy efficiency, accelerating deployment of low-carbon energy, and promoting electrification for global decarbonization. The need for year-round, real-economy action and increased climate ambition is emphasized, along with the importance of collaboration and sharing knowledge in the pursuit of climate solutions.

    https://speedandscale.com/newsletter/some-ho-ho-hopes-for-2026-and-beyond/

  • Rooftop solar is booming, but not in the communities that need it most

    Solar adoption in the U.S. has been rapidly growing, with 84% of new electricity generation capacity coming from solar and storage in 2024. State governments are implementing programs to lower barriers to entry for solar technology, such as tax credits and rebates, while community solar is being used to increase access for low-income households. There is nearly 14 GW of untapped potential on commercial rooftops that can power various facilities without requiring additional land use permits. By combining data analysis with community engagement, solar development can be made faster, equitable, and strategic, turning existing infrastructure into renewable energy assets that benefit a range of communities. The key to achieving a cleaner future lies in merging innovation with inclusion, aligning policy, technology, and trust to make solar work for everyone.

    https://www.utilitydive.com/news/rooftop-solar-is-booming-but-not-in-the-communities-that-need-it-most/805488/

  • How Long Until China Is At 90% Plugin Vehicle Sales?

    China has experienced a substantial increase in plugin vehicle sales, with over half of new vehicle sales now being plugin vehicles. Despite uncertainty surrounding the future growth of electric vehicle sales in China, comparisons to Norway's rapid rise in EV share suggest that China could potentially reach 90% plugin vehicle sales by 2030. The Chinese EV market is highly developed, competitive, and rapidly expanding, indicating that it is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/04/how-long-until-china-is-at-90-plugin-vehicle-sales/

  • From Riverboats To Global Ports: CATL Is Winning The Shipping Electrification Race

    CATL's batteries and energy management systems are being utilized in various ships and vessels, showcasing a shift towards electrification in maritime transport. The company's Ship-Shore-Cloud electric vessel solution, in partnership with A.P. Moller Maersk, is driving decarbonization efforts in ports and logistics, focusing on electrifying ground equipment, harbor craft, and shore power for vessels. Challenges in decarbonizing deep sea shipping are being addressed through operational changes, sustainable biofuels, and the prioritization of electrification in ports and short sea routes. Chinese battery manufacturers are leading the way in supplying batteries for maritime applications, while Europe and countries like Norway, Denmark, and Scotland are making strides in ferry electrification. This concrete reshaping of the shipping sector towards electrification is already in progress, with a focus on reducing emissions and costs while increasing regulatory familiarity and workforce capability.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/04/from-riverboats-to-global-ports-catl-is-winning-the-shipping-electrification-race/

  • Google acquires Intersect Power for nearly $5 billion

    Google has acquired Intersect Power for nearly $5 billion to develop solar and storage projects for its AI data centers, aiming to bypass grid bottlenecks and scale rapidly with energy parks co-locating data centers with generation and storage assets. With $15 billion in assets, Intersect Power plans to have 10.8 GW of capacity by 2028. Google's energy park development strategy, including the Quantum Clean Energy Project in Texas, focuses on clean energy solutions for a more sustainable future.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/01/05/google-acquires-intersect-power-for-nearly-5-billion/

  • On Heat Pumps, Colorado Hits The Ground Running

    Colorado is launching a rebate program offering up to $14,000 for energy efficiency upgrades, including heat pumps, to accelerate the transition to clean, all-electric systems and reduce carbon emissions. Zero Home is expanding statewide in Colorado, focusing on cold-climate heat pumps covered by the new rebate program, with up to $8,000 in rebates available. Heat pump sales have increased significantly in recent years, surpassing gas furnaces, with a new wave of cold-climate technology entering the market. Biden-era initiatives are supporting the development of commercial-scale heat pumps, heat pump clothes dryers, and water heaters, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/03/on-heat-pumps-colorado-hits-the-ground-running/

  • One Step Closer To The Compostable EV Battery Of The Future

    Flint, a Singapore-based startup supported by Shell and OPPO Research Institute, has developed a bio-based paper battery made from cellulose fibers found in plant cell walls. This innovative battery is cost-effective, durable, sustainable, fire-resistant, rechargeable, and offers a lifespan comparable to traditional batteries. It is 1.8 times cheaper per kWh compared to lithium-ion batteries and can naturally biodegrade. WH-Power has also introduced a new energy storage technology with a quasi solid-state electrolyte for stable operation with Li anodes and cathodes, high ion conductivity, and fast-charging capability. These advancements in plant-based and solid-state battery technologies aim to improve the sustainability profile of electric vehicles and other applications, offering promising solutions for the future of energy storage.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/02/one-step-closer-to-the-compostable-ev-battery-of-the-future/

  • BYD New Global BEV Sales Leader, Displacing Tesla

    In 2025, BYD surpassed Tesla as the top electric car manufacturer, selling 2.26 million electric vehicles globally. BYD's success is attributed to its production of both fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, allowing it to meet consumer and regulatory demands. With plans for new factories in Hungary and Turkey, BYD's export business is growing, and analysts predict total sales could reach 5.3 million units in the following year. BYD has unveiled a technology platform to boost competitiveness, focusing on electric buses and heavy-duty trucks, with sales doubling in 2025 to 57,000 units. Despite its lower stock valuation compared to Tesla, BYD's progress in the EV market could potentially change the dynamics of the industry.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/02/byd-new-global-bev-sales-leader-displacing-tesla/

  • 2025 Highlight: Guangzhou Shows a Potential Future of Clean City Living

    Guangzhou, part of the Pearl River Delta megalopolis, showcases innovative urban planning strategies that prioritize sustainability and quality of life. The city's advanced urban design features vertical greenery, parks over shopping malls, and well-landscaped public spaces, contributing to a pleasant and livable environment. With a focus on sustainable transportation, renewable energy sources, and efficient land use, Guangzhou serves as a model for reducing emissions and promoting green living. Despite facing challenges like scooter traffic and the need for more electrification, embracing clean technology can lead to a cleaner and better future in this vibrant and technology-driven city.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/01/2025-highlight-guangzhou-shows-a-potential-future-of-clean-city-living/

  • Green Hydrogen Startup Has A Message For Texas: Hold My Beer

    Oklahoma is emerging as a new player in the green hydrogen industry, with startup Tobe Energy receiving a $1.8 million investment for their membrane-free electrolysis system. This technology aims to simplify the production process, reduce costs by up to 75%, and cut waste heat, with a focus on large-scale use in industries like energy, manufacturing, and transportation. Tobe Energy's innovative approach using LED technology in electrolysis has attracted interest from investors and is seen as a promising development in the decarbonization movement. Oklahoma's strong renewable energy profile and focus on attracting new businesses through renewable energy further solidify its position in the US energy transition, with the state actively promoting renewable energy as a way to drive economic growth and sustainability.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/01/a-green-hydrogen-innovator-in-oklahoma-has-a-message-for-texas-hold-my-beer/