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- pv magazine USApv-magazine-usa.com
- ES Foundry completes 3 GW solar cell factory expansionpv magazine International
- ES Foundry reaches full 3-GW production capacity at cell factory in SCSolar Power World
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Editorial weekly synthesis. Use the tracker below for continuity between issues.
Advances in sodium-ion and LFP battery storage technologies boost grid and commercial applications
Recent developments in sodium-ion and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technologies are accelerating their adoption for grid-scale and commercial energy storage.
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- Peak Energy is constructing the first US gigafactory for sodium-ion grid batteries, marking a commercialization milestone.
- Lingtech and SVOLT have recently launched innovative LFP-based BESS products demonstrating rapid technological progress.
- Growing demand for AI data center and utility-scale storage drives adoption of advanced battery chemistries.
- Sodium-ion and LFP batteries offer safer, longer-lasting, and more affordable energy storage options.
- Grid-forming BESS technologies enhance grid stability and enable black-start capabilities after outages.
- Domestic manufacturing of advanced batteries supports energy security and renewable integration.
Unigrid and ESS launch sodium-ion batteries for residential and commercial energy storage
California-based Unigrid has introduced Na+Casa, its first-generation sodium-ion residential energy storage system featuring proprietary sodium chromium oxide cathode technology.
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- Unigrid and ESS Tech are launching first-generation sodium-ion products to meet growing demand for reliable, cost-effective energy storage.
- Rising residential energy bills and extreme weather events increase the need for safe, durable home storage solutions.
- Commercial sectors like data centers seek flexible, high-density storage to ensure energy security and operational continuity.
- Sodium-ion batteries provide safer, durable alternatives to lithium-ion with zero fire risk and extended lifespans.
- Broad temperature tolerance and modular designs enable deployment across diverse climates and applications.
- These innovations support grid resilience and renewable energy integration amid rising energy costs and extreme weather.
Track what changed, what held, and what to watch next across recent runs. Sorted by momentum.
A new deal on balcony solar just dropped in the US
Do you live in the U.S. and want balcony solar ? A new initiative could help you get a deal on one of these small but mighty systems that plug into a standard outlet and push clean power into your home. Today, California-based nonprofit Bright Saver announced it’s selling zero-markup DIY solar kits starting at about…
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U.S. solar LCOE on the rise, says Lazard
The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for utility-scale solar PV has increased slightly year on year due to higher capital costs, interest rates, tariffs, and ongoing supply chain pressures, according to the 2026 Levelized Cost of Energy Report published by US-based financial firm Lazard. The report compares the LCOE of various electricity generation technologies on a dollar-per-megawatt-hour ($/MWh
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Canadian Solar unveils new EP Cube systems featuring higher power, scalable storage
From ESS New s Chinese-Canadian PV manufacturer Canadian Solar has presented two new versions of its EP Cube storage solution . The product range offers all-in-one residential energy storage solutions that integrate a hybrid bidirectional inverter with modular lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology. “The EP Cube Single-Phase 2.0 system provides 10 kW AC and 15 kW DC output in a more compa
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Clean energy helped the grid avoid heat-wave catastrophe
This analysis and news roundup come from the Canary Media Weekly newsletter. Sign up to get it every Friday. Last week brought soaring temperatures to much of the U.S., forcing Americans to switch on their air conditioners — or, in many cases, flex their heat pumps’ cooling capabilities. And to cope with it all,…
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LONGi showcases solar+storage solution at The smarter E 2026
At The smarter E 2026 in Munich, LONGi recently showcased its LONGi One full stack, which combines the company’s BC solar module technology with energy storage. In his interview, LONGi Vice President Dennis She said the next generation of PV will always have energy storage included, and very few manufacturers can provide such turnkey solutions. According to She, LONGi’s strategy is to develop all
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ES Foundry completes 3 GW solar cell factory expansion
U.S. solar cell manufacturer ES Foundry has completed the 2 GW expansion of their Greenwood, South Carolina facility, bringing the total annual production capacity to 3 GW. The company has also announced the production of the first solar cell using the new production line. The company opened the Greenwood facility in January, 2025, and reached full 1 GW operational capacity by the end of the year.
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How EPCs can de-risk solar carport projects
Some projects forgive mistakes. Carports do not. One wrong assumption about soil, one structural detail overlooked, one steel price swing between bid and build, one buried obstruction nobody flagged or knew about, and any one of those can wipe out a project’s margin. Together they can sink a company. Carports are one of the fastest growing and most misunderstood segments of commercial solar. Schoo
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KEMA Labs: Why quality will define the future of the power sector
KEMA Labs (CESI Group): Independent testing, inspection and certification to keep power grids resilient amid global supply chain pressures.
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Oil price jumps over 4% and gold slides as the US and Iran trade attacks –business live
Asian shares tumble with South Korea’s Kospi down nearly 10% Good morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of business, the financial markets and the world economy. It’s a gloomy start to the week as attacks between the US and Iran in the Gulf continue. Tehran said it had closed the strait of Hormuz, while Donald Trump insisted the key shipping passage remained open and US officials said 20 sh
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‘Australian first’ compressed CO2 battery project takes shape
Victoria’s State Electricity Commission (SEC) will partner with Milan-headquartered battery developer Energy Dome to deploy a 10-hour duration compressed carbon dioxide (CO2) battery energy storage system near Morwell in the Latrobe Valley. The project, to be built as part of a new 143-hectare energy innovation precinct to be established adjacent to the decommissioned coal-fired Hazelwood power st
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Peak Energy to start 4-GWh sodium-ion ESS manufacturing facility in Sacramento
Peak Energy announced it will establish a grid-scale sodium-ion energy storage manufacturing facility in Sacramento, California. The company has chosen a 183,000-ft2 facility in Metro Air Park that should accommodate a 4-GWh annual manufacturing capacity. With more than 6 GWh of customer commitments already in place, Peak expects to enter production and begin shipments in… The post Peak Energy to
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Sunrun’s new distributed AI data center pilot could be the start of something big
Sunrun has announced the launch of a distributed AI compute pilot program, marking the company’s expansion outside its core home energy service business and into the edge computing market. Following what the company described as a successful proof of concept, the residential solar and energy storage provider plans to place a significant number of AI compute nodes into customer homes where its sola
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Qualifying for solar tax credits beyond the July 4th deadline
Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, solar and wind energy projects were eligible for a 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC), with a gradual phase-out of the credits beginning in 2032. In 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) significantly tightened the timeline for solar projects. Under the new requirements, solar projects that began construction after July 4, 2026 must be placed in
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Octopus Energy launches plug-in home batteries
From ESS News Octopus Energy has introduced Nook, a new range of residential battery storage systems designed to expand access to home energy storage, including for apartment dwellers and renters. The lineup includes the Octopus Nook Cube, a 2 kWh plug-in battery that connects to a standard household socket and can be expanded to 10.5 kWh by adding additional units. The company also unveiled the O
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Guest post: France’s June heatwave caused more than 2,700 heat-related deaths
In June 2026, a record-breaking heatwave swept across Europe, with France among the first and hardest hit countries. In a new analysis, we estimate that the extreme conditions caused more than 2,700 heat-related deaths in France. We also show how France’s extreme temperatures in June exceeded projections from climate models. Our findings illustrate the human toll of extreme weather as the world wa
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Recent public storylines
Crawlable detail links for recent public storyline pages, so search engines can discover more than the live brief.
- California Senate passes bill to allow plug-in solar devices
The California Senate has approved SB 868, known as the Plug and Play Solar Act, which permits portable solar generation devices with up to 1,200 W output to connect to buildings via standard 120 V outlets without requiring utility fees or permission....
- Fixed utility fees challenge rooftop solar economics, new flat-fee model offers alternative
In 27 U.S. states, mandatory fixed utility charges are increasing costs for rooftop solar and storage users by distorting price signals and reinforcing reliance on centralized grids.
- Global coal plant construction hits 10-year high in 2025 despite decline in coal power output
In 2025, nearly 100 GW of new coal-fired power capacity was added worldwide, marking a decade high driven mainly by India and China. However, global coal power generation fell by 0.6%, with significant output declines in these countries as renewables like wind and solar expanded.
- U.S. solar manufacturing and storage sectors set for record growth in 2026-2027
Coverage discusses speculative scenarios around ~$7B; treat as market chatter and see linked sources.
- UK government moves to fast-track clean energy projects amid political debate over climate policy
Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans to introduce reforms to fast-track critical clean energy and infrastructure projects by limiting judicial reviews, designating key projects as of national importance to reduce delays.
- Data centers drive rising electricity demand, boosting solar adoption
U.S. data centers' electricity consumption has surged from 58 TWh in 2014 to 176 TWh in 2023, projected to reach up to 580 TWh by 2028.
- India and Egypt rapidly expand solar capacity in 2025-2026
India set a new quarterly record by installing 14.4 GW of solar PV in Q1 2026, nearly doubling its additions from the same period in 2025. Egypt installed 800 MW of solar capacity in 2025 and is projected to accelerate growth, with cumulative capacity expected to reach over 34 GW by 2035.
- Ford develops affordable EV to compete with China at secret California lab
Ford is intensifying its efforts to produce an affordable electric vehicle capable of competing with Chinese EV makers. At its secret lab in Long Beach, California, the company employs advanced manufacturing technologies to develop this new model. This move reflects Ford's commitment to expanding its EV lineup and addressing market demands for cost-effective electric transportation solutions.
- Battery storage and rooftop solar surge in Australia with record consumption share and installations
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) in New South Wales set new records by capturing 11.9% of state electricity consumption and reaching 1,240 MW charging power on 2 May 2026.
- Battery technology evolves with diverse goals amid long-duration storage challenges
Battery development is moving beyond a single focus on range, charging speed, and cost to multiple optimization paths reflecting varied objectives such as energy density, scalability, and grid integration.
- Western US grid advances with CAISO's extended day-ahead market and major solar-storage deal
On May 1, the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) launched the Extended Day-Ahead Market (EDAM), enabling Western utilities to coordinate solar and storage resources 24 hours in advance.
- Countries chart new paths away from fossil fuels at Colombia summit
In late April 2026, Colombia hosted nearly 60 countries in Santa Marta for the first-ever conference focused on transitioning away from fossil fuels.
- UAE's exit from OPEC raises concerns over future oil market volatility
The United Arab Emirates has unexpectedly left OPEC after 60 years, challenging the cartel's unity and potentially triggering increased volatility in global oil markets.
- Significant growth in solar, wind, and energy storage capacity in 2026 across multiple regions
In 2026, substantial expansions in renewable energy and storage capacity are underway globally. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects 80 GW of new solar, wind, and storage capacity additions.
- Meta partners with Overview Energy to power AI data centers using space-based solar technology
Meta has signed a pioneering agreement with Overview Energy to access up to 1 GW of space-based solar power for its AI data centers.
- Chinese solar exports surge sharply in March amid policy-driven rush
Coverage discusses speculative scenarios around ~$3.6B; treat as market chatter and see linked sources.
- Republican lawmakers introduce bill to extend clean energy tax credits through 2032
The American Energy Dominance Act, introduced by four Republican lawmakers, focuses on extending critical tax credits for clean energy projects including commercial solar, energy-efficient buildings, and clean hydrogen. By preventing the expiration of these incentives, the bill aims to provide stability and long-term financial support to businesses, helping lower costs and sustain growth in the renewable energy sector through 2032.
- Solar power surpasses coal as the largest electricity source in 2025
In 2025, solar power experienced unprecedented growth, becoming the world's largest source of electricity and overtaking coal. This milestone reflects a significant shift in the global energy landscape, driven by rapid expansion of renewables and accelerating the transition to cleaner power sources.
- More than 50 countries gather in Colombia for first talks on phasing out fossil fuels
Coverage discusses speculative scenarios for 2026; treat as market chatter and see linked sources.
- Britain to scrap carbon tax on electricity while raising windfall tax on low-carbon generators
The UK government plans to abolish the carbon tax on electricity generation by April 2028, citing the phase-out of coal and increased renewable energy as reasons the tax is no longer necessary.
- Germany sets new record with over 1 GWh of battery storage added in March alongside push for solar farms with batteries
In March 2026, Germany added a record nearly 1 GWh of battery storage capacity, driven largely by residential photovoltaic storage systems.
- Colorado and Maine advance plug-in solar device regulations
Colorado has passed legislation permitting plug-in "balcony" solar systems up to 1920 watts, expanding residential solar options.
- U.S. solar sector shows strong growth despite market shifts
The U.S. solar industry continues to expand robustly, with utility-scale solar growing 38% and small-scale systems rising 11% in early 2025, together supplying about 9% of U.S. electricity.
- Global EV sales reach 4 million in Q1 2026 with uneven regional trends
Electric vehicle sales totaled 4 million worldwide in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 3% decline year over year. While Europe experienced strong growth with a 27% increase driven by subsidies and higher fuel prices, China and North America saw significant declines of 21% and 27% respectively.
- Suniva to expand US solar cell manufacturing with new South Carolina factory
Suniva announced a $350 million investment to build a 4.5 GW solar cell factory in Laurens, South Carolina, expected to start operations in Q2 2027.
- Rivian to power Illinois factory with recycled EV batteries
Rivian has announced a collaboration with battery recycler Redwood Materials to deploy second-life EV battery packs as on-site energy storage at its manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois. This approach helps mitigate constraints caused by electricity demand growing faster than grid capacity, enabling continued industrial expansion while promoting sustainability through battery reuse.
- California school district completes major solar and energy modernization project amid grid challenges
The Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Unified School District in California has completed a $33 million energy modernization project, installing approximately 3.5 MW of solar capacity across 12 campuses.
- UK government backs Rolls-Royce small modular nuclear reactor project at Wylfa
Coverage discusses speculative scenarios around ~£600M; treat as market chatter and see linked sources.
- EPA head Lee Zeldin celebrates regulatory rollbacks at climate denial conference
At a recent conference hosted by the Heartland Institute, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin publicly celebrated the agency's rollbacks of climate-related regulations. Zeldin's keynote address framed these deregulatory actions as a victory over climate science, urging attendees to "celebrate vindication." The event underscores the EPA's shift under Zeldin's leadership towards dismantling previous climate policies, reflecting broader political debates over environmental regulation and energy policy in the United States.
- California’s proposed community solar decision may halt project development
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has issued a proposed decision in the Community Solar Proceeding that advocacy groups say will effectively prevent any community solar projects from being built in the state.
- UK sets new solar energy records and approves largest solar farm
Britain's solar energy generation hit record highs on consecutive days in early April 2026, with solar farms across England, Wales, and Scotland producing up to 14.4 GW of low-carbon electricity during sunny spring weather.
- Battery storage cost decline could enable solar to meet 90% of India's power demand
Coverage discusses speculative scenarios around ~$56; treat as market chatter and see linked sources.
- Bangladesh plans largest solar farm near Rampal coal power station with 442 MW capacity
Bangladesh is set to build its largest solar power plant, a 442 MW facility adjacent to the Rampal coal-fired power station in Khulna.
- GM and Tesla show contrasting EV sales trends in early 2026
In early 2026, Cadillac's electric vehicle (EV) sales are rising despite a challenging US market environment marked by the end of federal EV tax credits and some legacy automakers scaling back EV efforts.
- South Australia advances renewable energy with new land releases and large solar-plus-storage project
South Australia is accelerating its renewable energy transition by opening over 11,000 square kilometers for large-scale solar, wind, and storage projects, aiming for 100% net renewables by 2027.
- PV-driven hydraulic hydro storage could achieve $0.022/kWh LCOE in the U.S.
A new international study finds that utility-scale solar PV combined with gravity-based hydraulic hydro storage (HHS) could deliver energy at an LCOE as low as $ in select U.S. locations.
- UK experts caution against new North Sea oil drilling amid energy crisis
As political pressure mounts on the UK government to respond to energy supply concerns linked to the Iran war, leading climate scientists and experts warn against expanding North Sea oil drilling.
- Battery storage emerges as critical to managing grid demands amid AI growth and aging infrastructure
The rapid expansion of AI data centers is driving unprecedented electricity demand growth in North America, with projections showing a 69% increase in summer peak demand over the next decade.
- Global solar capacity hits record 511 GW in 2025 as renewables surge worldwide
In 2025, the world added a record 692 GW of renewable energy capacity, with solar power leading the expansion by contributing 511 GW, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
- Colorado legalizes plug-in solar for renters as Illinois considers similar bill
The Colorado House of Representatives passed HB26-1007 to legalize plug-in solar systems for renters and multifamily residents, establishing a regulatory framework for portable solar arrays that connect via standard home outlets.
- IPCC meeting deadlocked over timeline for next major climate report
The IPCC's 64th session highlighted persistent disagreements among governments over the timing of the seventh assessment report, a key scientific input for global climate policy and energy transition decisions. The deadlock, with no agreement on whether to publish before or after the 2028 UNFCCC global stocktake, risks delaying critical climate guidance amid ongoing global energy and geopolitical challenges. France's condemnation of the delay effort underscores rising frustration with the stalled process.
- Europe’s energy grid bottlenecks threaten planned renewables expansion
Europe faces significant grid capacity constraints that could block up to 120 GW of planned renewable energy projects, according to a recent Ember analysis.
- Germany awards 3.45 GW onshore wind and 155 MW rooftop solar in recent tenders
Germany's Federal Network Agency allocated 3.45 GW of onshore wind capacity and 155 MW of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) capacity in recent tenders.
- Solar power emerges as a growing energy frontier above 60° North in the Arctic
A new IEA-PVPS report reveals that solar photovoltaic (PV) installations above 60° North latitude in the Arctic are not only viable but expanding rapidly.
- U.S. startup Qnetic begins manufacturing grid-scale flywheel energy storage systems
Qnetic is advancing grid-scale energy storage by manufacturing its innovative Q500 flywheel system, which prioritizes long-duration energy capacity over short bursts of power typical of conventional flywheels. This approach could enhance grid stability and flexibility. The company’s ongoing efforts include scaling production, raising capital, and validating technology through partnerships, positioning it as a notable player in the evolving energy storage sector.
- Trump’s war with Iran exposes critical flaws in US energy policy and economic risks
Donald Trump's military conflict with Iran has failed to achieve its objectives such as regime change or securing oil resources, leaving the US economically vulnerable. Iran retains control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, threatening global energy supplies.
- China dominates EV battery production and profitability amid US challenges
China's electric vehicle (EV) industry is not only producing high-quality cars but also generating significant profits. Leading battery manufacturers CATL and BYD, both Chinese, dominate global EV battery production.
- Electric vehicle sales surge in Australia amid US-Iran conflict and battery innovation
Following the outbreak of war between the US and Iran, electric vehicle (EV) sales in Australia have surged significantly.
- Iran war exposes challenges and urgency in renewable energy transition
The ongoing conflict involving Iran has disrupted critical oil shipping routes, notably the Strait of Hormuz, causing volatile oil prices and highlighting vulnerabilities in global energy supply.
- Trump’s weekend deal push moves gas markets before formal talks
US President Trump's weekend push for a deal with Iran is moving European gas markets ahead of any formal agreement.
- New England and Europe see rising interest in small-scale home solar installations
Legislators across New England are advancing bills to allow residents to install plug-in solar panel kits on balconies and in backyards, simplifying access to solar power.
- UK mandates rooftop solar panels and heat pumps in all new homes starting 2028
In response to energy supply disruptions linked to the Iran war, the UK government has introduced the Future Homes Program, requiring all new homes built from April 2028 to include rooftop solar panels and heat pumps.
- India’s CO2 emissions growth slows to two-decade low amid cautious climate goals
India’s CO2 emissions in 2025 grew at their slowest rate in 20 years, reflecting a cautious approach to climate policy. Despite this slowdown, new emissions reduction plans from New Delhi remain modest, limiting prospects for significant progress through 2035 among the world’s top three polluters.
- Iran war threatens European energy supply and offshore wind projects
The ongoing conflict involving Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is causing significant disruptions to European energy supplies and renewable energy projects.
- Maximo robots accelerate solar panel installation on AES's 1-GW project
Maximo, a solar robotics company incubated by AES, has reached a milestone by installing 100 MW of solar panels at the AES Bellefield project in Kern County, California.
- Tesla advances plans for 100 GW U.S. solar manufacturing with $2.9 billion equipment talks
Tesla is progressing with its ambitious plan to establish 100 GW of photovoltaic manufacturing capacity in the U.S. by 2028.
- Global EV market set for major growth amid differing US and Europe expansion trends
The global electric vehicle (EV) market is projected to grow from $776 billion in 2026 to $4,089 billion by 2035, reflecting a fundamental transformation of the auto industry.
- Data centres’ growing gas power use could sharply raise emissions and energy costs
New analysis warns that UK data centres powering AI could emit hundreds of times more CO2 than government estimates if reliant on gas-fired electricity.
- U.S. energy storage installations and renewable generation reach historic highs in 2025
In 2025, the U.S. energy storage market surged to a record 18.9 GW of battery installations, a 52% increase from 2024, driven by utility-scale and residential sectors.
- US blocks tariffs on Chinese battery anode imports as China shifts to sodium batteries
The US International Trade Commission has rejected imposing anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Chinese graphite anode imports, averting potential price shocks for the US battery storage sector.
- US residential solar installations projected to decline 33% in 2026 amid tax credit and financing challenges
Roth Capital Partners forecasts a significant 33% year-over-year drop in US residential solar installations in 2026.
- U.S. government confirms Tesla as buyer in $4.3 billion LG Energy Solution lithium battery deal
The U.S. Department of the Interior has officially confirmed Tesla as the buyer in a $4.3 billion contract with LG Energy Solution for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells.
- Honda admits defeat in EV competition amid shifting market dynamics
Honda has openly acknowledged its inability to compete effectively against newer electric vehicle manufacturers, especially in China, where consumer preferences are rapidly shifting towards software-driven features.
- Trump administration explores alternatives amid slow nuclear talks with Westinghouse
Amid rising electricity demand and slow negotiations with Westinghouse, the Trump administration is broadening its approach to reviving the U.S. nuclear sector by courting alternative nuclear reactor developers. This strategy aims to diversify partnerships and accelerate nuclear energy deployment, which is critical for U.S. energy security and climate goals. The administration's efforts build on executive orders issued last May that emphasize the importance of nuclear energy expansion.
- EV sales and affordability reach a tipping point amid political influences on prices
Recent reports highlight that electric vehicle prices, which had been increasing despite falling battery costs, are now finally decreasing. This change is attributed more to political decisions than to technological advances alone. As a result, EV sales and affordability are improving, marking a significant milestone in the transition to electric mobility. The high upfront cost, previously the biggest obstacle for drivers switching to EVs, is becoming less prohibitive, potentially accelerating adoption rates.
- California court upholds NEM 3.0, dealing blow to rooftop solar
The opportunity to reform a net metering framework that has gutted rooftop solar project deployment in California was dashed yesterday. The California Court of Appeals upheld the current net metering program, Net Energy Metering 3.0 (NEM 3.0), after a months long review.
- Watch: Why the Iran war is pushing up oil prices
As turmoil continues in the Middle East, the price of crude oil rose to more than $100 a barrel on Monday.
- BYD’s 1.5 MW “Flash” Charging Wasn’t A Gimmick. The Battery Chemistry Behind It Could Change The Industry.
Megawatt fast EV charging reflects a coordinated grid strategy the UK once used. Privatisation and fragmentation now make that infrastructure far harder to build The future of electric cars arrived this week in China.
- Energy crisis escalates amid Iran tensions
The energy crisis in the Middle East, driven by US-Israeli military actions against Iran, has caused significant spikes in global energy prices and disruptions in oil supply routes. The strait of Hormuz is particularly affected, with shipping traffic nearly halted.
- EU Proposes Industrial Accelerator Act to Boost Low-Carbon Production
The European Commission's Industrial Accelerator Act aims to enhance EU production of low-carbon technologies, mandating that public-funded solar projects use EU-made components. This initiative seeks to reduce reliance on imports and significantly cut CO2 emissions by 2030.
- Geopolitical Tensions and Their Impact on Energy Markets
Geopolitical tensions, particularly the Iran conflict, are impacting global energy markets. China's focus on renewables is intensifying, while rising gasoline prices in the U.S. are increasing the appeal of solar power and electric vehicles.
- China Reveals New Climate Goals and Economic Growth Target for 2026
China has announced new climate goals, targeting a 17% reduction in carbon emissions per unit of GDP by 2030, alongside a low economic growth target of 4.5-5% for 2026.
- Climate deniers note silence on trump’s fossil fuel policies
Climate deniers, including Marc Morano, have expressed surprise at the lack of resistance from Democrats and activists to Trump's fossil fuel policies. Morano noted this silence during a recent forum, highlighting a perceived acquiescence to the administration's agenda.
- EU prioritizes sodium-ion batteries in industrial strategy
The EU is prioritizing sodium-ion battery technology as part of its industrial strategy, with calls for funding to support this initiative. EESC President Séamus Boland emphasizes the importance of sodium batteries for the EU's competitive edge.
- Massachusetts house advances climate bill with solar boost and energy efficiency cuts
The Massachusetts House has advanced a climate bill that boosts solar energy deployment while cutting funding for energy efficiency programs. The bill, H 5151, passed with a vote of 128-27 and includes provisions for streamlining solar permitting and expanding municipal net metering.
- Aberdeen's hydrogen bus fleet to be sold off
Aberdeen's hydrogen bus fleet, once a symbol of clean transport innovation, is being retired and sold off after failing to deliver on its promises. The fleet was the world's first hydrogen double-decker operation, but it has not met expectations, raising concerns about the future of hydrogen in public transport.
- U.S. power-plant pollution rose sharply in 2025 amid regulatory rollbacks
Pollution from U.S. power plants surged in 2025, linked to the Trump administration's push for coal and the rollback of climate regulations. The EPA noted that most coal plants could meet pollution standards, yet the administration chose to weaken them, raising health concerns over neurotoxic emissions.
- U.S. renewable energy surges: solar surpasses hydro and capacity set to increase
The U.S. energy landscape is undergoing significant changes, with renewable energy sources, particularly solar, making substantial gains. In 2025, renewables accounted for over 25% of the electricity generated in the U.S., with solar surpassing hydro power for the first time. This shift is expected to continue, as projections indicate that solar and storage will lead the addition of a record-breaking 86 GW of new capacity in 2026.
- Diverging trends in EV sales: U.S. vs. europe
Recent reports reveal contrasting trends in EV sales between the U.S. and Europe. While the U.S. faces claims of stalling EV sales, used EV sales are thriving. In contrast, Europe has seen a significant surge in EV sales, highlighting a stark difference in market performance between the two regions.
- UK food security at risk of unrest amid climate crisis
Experts warn that the UK is dangerously close to food riots due to systemic vulnerabilities in food security, exacerbated by climate change and economic pressures. A new report links rising food prices and flooding to the ongoing crisis, indicating that a single shock could trigger unrest.
- U.S. threatens to leave IEA over climate policy dispute
The U.S. has instructed the International Energy Agency to cease its focus on climate change, signaling a shift towards a pro-fossil fuel energy policy. This move has raised concerns among officials about the implications for global climate initiatives.
- Evolving solar solutions: hybrid systems and ROI challenges
The solar energy sector is shifting towards hybrid systems that enhance reliability for off-grid users. There is also a need to update ROI models to reflect the transition to solar-plus-storage solutions, as traditional financial projections may no longer be valid.
- U.S. electric generating capacity expected to reach record high in 2026
The U.S. is set to achieve a record high in electric generating capacity in 2026, with 86 GW planned for addition. Solar power leads at 51%, followed by battery storage at 28% and wind at 14%.
- IEA ministerial meeting highlights role in global energy challenges
During the recent IEA Ministerial meeting in Paris, global energy leaders emphasized the International Energy Agency's (IEA) pivotal role in addressing worldwide energy challenges. The meeting also resulted in expanded mandates concerning critical minerals and strengthened institutional ties with key countries. However, the IEA's focus on clean energy has raised concerns among U.S. officials, who feel pressured to align with pro-fossil fuel policies or risk being sidelined in global energy discussions.
- Groups sue EPA over reported repeal tied to 2009 endangerment finding
A coalition of health and environmental groups is suing the EPA over its repeal of climate protections, including the endangerment finding from 2009. California and other local leaders are also challenging this decision, indicating a significant legal pushback against the rollback of climate regulations.
- AI data centers sharpen focus on grid upgrades and who pays for higher power bills
AI-driven data centers are increasing electricity demand, prompting discussions on grid upgrades and cost allocation. EPRI calls for optimizing infrastructure, while Anthropic pledges to cover consumer electricity price hikes linked to its data centers.
- Australian vanadium and sumitomo electric align on bid for WA 500mwh flow battery
Australian Vanadium Limited and Sumitomo Electric Industries are positioning a joint bid into Western Australia’s 500MWh flow battery procurement, framing the project as a long-duration vanadium flow battery build (10-hour discharge) with a reported completion target of 2029. The story is being amplified via trade coverage and community sharing, but remains centered on the same partnership-and-bid announcement.
- Trump revokes EPA endangerment finding, raising stakes for US emissions rules
US climate regulation is facing a major legal and policy inflection point after President Donald Trump revoked the EPA’s 2009 “endangerment finding,” a foundational determination that greenhouse gases threaten human health and therefore trigger federal regulation. The move is framed by supporters as a cost-saving rollback, while observers expect significant litigation and uncertainty over the durability of emissions rules affecting vehicles, power plants and industrial sources.
- Trump administration revokes 2009 endangerment finding underpinning US climate rules
Two pieces focus on the Trump administration’s move to revoke the 2009 “endangerment finding,” described as the legal basis for US climate regulations. The Guardian frames the decision as dismantling the foundation for controlling greenhouse-gas pollution via the EPA, while New York Magazine argues the rollback could be among the administration’s most consequential actions on climate regulation.
- India installed a record 36.6 GW of solar in 2025, led by large-scale projects
Trade reporting citing Mercom India’s Q4 and Annual 2025 India Solar Market Update highlights a step-up in India’s annual solar additions, with utility-scale (including open access C&I) dominating the mix and a strong Q4 commissioning pace.
- January EV demand indicators soften; tesla china sales fall year over year
Two posts highlight softer EV demand signals at the start of 2026. Reuters reports global EV registrations fell in January and ties the slowdown to China and the US, noting registrations are a proxy for purchases.
- Trump orders military coal purchases and support for coal-plant upgrades
A new federal directive is being framed as an energy-security and grid-resilience move: President Trump is reported to have ordered the U.S. military to begin purchasing coal and to support upgrades at domestic coal-fired power plants. Coverage splits between supporters who argue it protects jobs and reliability, and critics who warn it could raise emissions and costs and divert resources from cleaner technologies.
- Study: warming made chile-argentina “fire weather” about three times more likely
Two outlets amplify a rapid attribution finding that human-caused warming increased the likelihood of the hot, dry and windy conditions that preceded January wildfires in Chile and Argentina, with reporting also highlighting ecological damage in Patagonia.
- BYD coverage emphasizes “1,000 km” EV range benchmark in china
A small cluster of posts highlights BYD in connection with “1,000 km” EV range messaging in China.
- Canada added 57 MW of utility-scale solar in 2025; behind-the-meter totals still pending
Canada’s 2025 solar story is splitting into two tracks: a small reported year for utility-scale additions, and a potentially stronger behind-the-meter market that is not yet fully captured in official totals because utilities are still finalizing new-connection data. CanREA is simultaneously pointing to a longer-run growth outlook tied to provincial procurement pipelines.
- Storage momentum builds: europe matures, c&i economics still a hurdle
Reporting and commentary in the past day points to accelerating momentum for battery storage, alongside persistent adoption friction in the commercial and industrial segment. pv magazine highlights a large gap between C&I solar installations and C&I battery storage, arguing that batteries’ value depends on...
- Posts highlight study linking higher EV concentrations to lower NO2 in california
CleanTechnica and a Reddit post linking to The Drive highlight research suggesting that areas with more EVs/zero-emissions vehicles in California see lower nitrogen-oxide-related pollution.
- US, Europe on track for 2030 solar goals despite pipeline gaps
A record-breaking year for solar generation and a leap in battery capacity have shifted the US energy landscape, turning solar into a primary workhorse for meeting the nation’s surging power needs. From pv magazine USA Solar energy met nearly two-thirds of the growth in US electricity demand in 2025.
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