As COP29 highlights the need for climate finance, experts emphasize a shift toward evidence-based metrics to maximize the impact of climate funding. A recent Environmental Defense
Virtual Power Plants Are Coming to Save the Grid, Sooner Than You Might Think
Virtual power plants, which are networks of small batteries that function like power plants, are rapidly gaining momentum and could make a significant impact on grid stability this summer. These virtual power plants consist of thousands of home-based batteries that contribute megawatts of capacity to the grid during peak electricity demand. The majority of electricity stored in these batteries is generated by rooftop solar, making this combination of renewable energy and battery networks a promising solution for the future grid. Various utilities and battery companies have launched pilot projects across California, Utah, Vermont, and other states, with participants numbering in the thousands. Sonnen, a battery manufacturer, is among the companies leading the way in popularizing virtual power plants. Their batteries, which can serve a larger function than backup power, have been integrated into initiatives such as Rocky Mountain Power's rebate program and virtual power plant projects with Pacific Gas & Electric, Baker Electric Home Energy, and Green Mountain Power.
Key utility commission elections in Arizona, Montana, and Louisiana saw Republican victories, which could influence each state's approach to clean energy. In Arizona, a Republican
COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, faces major challenges with the recent U.S. election of Donald Trump and global economic strain. Key issues include setting a new climate aid goal, as d
Despite Donald Trump’s plans to re-exit the Paris Climate Accord, the renewable energy movement appears resilient. Wind and solar power, now the cheapest energy sources worldwide,
In the recent U.S. elections, voters in five states passed significant environmental ballot initiatives, allocating billions for climate resilience and conservation. Minnesota vot
A recent analysis reveals that emissions from private jet travel rose 50% from 2019 to 2023, driven by increased use of jets for short trips, some under 50 kilometers. Tracking
New research suggests that allowing rainforests to regrow naturally could store significant carbon while restoring biodiversity. The study, published in *Nature*, estimates that 8
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., if given influence over health policy under a Trump administration, could advance certain bipartisan health reforms. His ideas, such as capping drug prices,
Hurricanes not only cause physical destruction but also fuel disease outbreaks, as shown in recent studies on post-storm health impacts in the U.S. and Caribbean. Floodwaters from
Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar, has launched its Liberty Solar project near Houston, Texas, with operations beginning on October 31, 2024. Located in Liberty Cou
San Francisco’s Proposition K, set for a vote on November 5, seeks to close a 2-mile section of the Great Highway to cars, converting it into a park and recreation area. Supporter
The Biden-Harris administration has allocated $15.3 million to American Climate Corps projects in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and enhancing gre
Footprint Project, a New Orleans-based nonprofit, is using solar-powered microgrids to replace traditional gas and diesel generators in disaster relief, aiming to cut emissions an
Florida’s escalating home insurance crisis, compounded by repeated hurricanes, has left many residents contemplating leaving the state. With average premiums topping $10,000 annua
The Biden-Harris administration has allocated over $7.4 million to Texas ports under the EPA’s Clean Ports Program, part of a $3 billion national investment targeting zero-emissio