Renewable energy sources surpassed coal as the primary global electricity source for the first half of the year, driven by substantial growth in solar and wind power, according to Ember. While overall electricity demand continues to rise, the surge in renewables has met this demand, even slightly reducing coal and gas usage. However, a mixed global landscape exists, as developing nations, particularly China, lead the clean energy transition, whereas wealthier nations like the US and EU are increasingly reliant on fossil fuels. Solar power, the largest contributor to renewable growth, has experienced dramatic cost reductions, especially in lower-income countries. Consequently, China’s dominance in clean tech exports continues to grow, with electric vehicles and batteries now surpassing the value of solar panel exports.
Read More
China has pledged to reduce carbon emissions by 7 to 10 percent by 2035, becoming a global leader in climate action while the United States retreats from the Paris Agreement. President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of a green transition, highlighting the country’s shift towards renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, aiming for over 30 percent of its power system to be run by these sources. Furthermore, China plans to make new energy vehicles the mainstream in vehicle sales. This commitment stands in stark contrast to the US stance on climate change.
Read More
We really need to act: EU breaks taboo with first-ever sanctions on Russian LNG. This feels like a significant moment, a turning point perhaps. It’s the European Union, finally taking a decisive step and hitting Russia where it arguably hurts most: the wallet. The news of sanctions on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) signals a shift, a recognition that the old ways of doing business simply aren’t acceptable anymore. It’s about time, honestly.
This move feels long overdue. We’re talking about a war that’s been raging for some time now, a conflict fueled in part by the very resources the EU has been importing.… Continue reading
US orders Orsted to halt offshore wind project, deepening industry woes is a serious blow, and the details paint a concerning picture of the energy landscape. It feels like a punch in the gut to the future, considering that a massive offshore wind project, potentially 80% complete with dozens of turbines in place, has been put on hold. The foundations are laid, the infrastructure is largely in place, and the project was on the cusp of generating clean energy. The only thing remaining to be done was to reap the benefits.
Now, there’s a mountain of questions. Who pays to dismantle the structures?… Continue reading
President Donald Trump announced his administration would not approve solar or wind power projects, citing concerns about land use. This decision follows tightened federal permitting for renewables, centralizing the process within the Interior Secretary’s office, and fuels renewable companies’ concerns about project approvals. Trump blames renewables for rising electricity prices, particularly in areas facing tight power supply amid growing demand. Despite this, solar and battery storage projects could quickly alleviate supply shortages. Additionally, Trump’s policies, including a bill ending renewable tax credits and steel and copper tariffs, have further hampered the expansion of renewable energy.
Read More
The Scottish government has approved SSE Plc’s plans for the Berwick Bank wind farm, which, upon completion, will be the world’s largest offshore wind farm. Situated off the eastern coast of Scotland, the 4.1-gigawatt project has been in development for a decade. This significant milestone allows SSE to participate in the upcoming government wind auction in August, with the potential to power 6 million homes.
Read More
Largest UK solar plant goes online, and right away, the numbers are impressive. We’re talking about a 373 MW solar plant, which, in ideal conditions, could potentially provide 1 to 1.5% of the average electricity demand for the entire UK. Now, let’s be realistic, that percentage will likely fluctuate, especially with the famously unpredictable British weather, meaning it will be much less during those long, cloudy winter days.
Might not sound like much in the grand scheme of things, but any step away from relying on gas is a positive move, and with the UK already generating around 79% of its electricity from zero-carbon sources, it’s a welcome addition to the energy mix.… Continue reading
A UN special rapporteur is advocating for strict measures to combat the climate crisis, including criminal penalties for climate disinformation and a complete ban on fossil fuel industry lobbying and advertising. The report, presented to the general assembly, argues that wealthy fossil fuel-producing nations are legally obligated to phase out oil, gas, and coal by 2030, compensating communities harmed by climate change and fossil fuel extraction. Morgera emphasizes the need to “defossilize” economies, addressing the widespread human rights violations linked to fossil fuels and urging states to enforce harsh penalties. She highlights the urgent need for transformative action to prioritize human rights over industry profits, emphasizing that transitioning to renewable energy is now a more economically viable and healthier option for societies.
Read More
China hits 1 TW solar milestone.
It’s hard to wrap your head around the sheer scale of it all, but China has officially hit a monumental milestone: one terawatt of solar power capacity. To put that in perspective, the comments mentioned that China installed almost a third of the entire solar power capacity of the United States in just one month alone. That’s an astounding figure, and it really drives home the magnitude of their commitment to renewable energy. Whatever reservations one might have, this achievement is a significant global initiative.
The contrast is stark, isn’t it? While China is rapidly expanding its solar infrastructure, there are discussions here and there about, “coal powered AI.”… Continue reading
Ireland’s recent closure of its last coal-fired power plant marks a significant milestone, propelling the nation into the ranks of fifteen European countries free from coal-generated electricity. This achievement is a testament to the growing global movement towards cleaner energy sources and a departure from the reliance on fossil fuels that has long characterized industrial economies. It’s a positive step, demonstrating that transitioning away from coal is achievable and setting a powerful example for other nations still heavily dependent on this polluting fuel.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that this achievement doesn’t mean Ireland is entirely free of fossil fuels. Natural gas remains a significant contributor to the country’s energy mix, and the transportation sector still relies heavily on gasoline and diesel.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood