energy transition
Newsletter
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Reimagining energy: The rise of free solar power
A solar revolution is underway, with experts predicting that by 2030, solar power could be effectively free during daylight hours in many regions.
In short:
- Solar energy capacity saw an 80% increase in 2023, now providing nearly 6% of global electricity, with expectations to become the dominant source by the 2030s.
- The cost of solar panels has dropped dramatically, making solar the cheapest new electricity source for 95% of the world.
- The future may bring industries that adjust operations based on solar availability, with a growing focus on energy storage and transmission.
Key quote:
“The next tenfold increase will be equivalent to multiplying the world’s entire fleet of nuclear reactors by eight in less than the time it typically takes to build just a single one of them.”
— The Economist
Why this matters:
With fewer fossil fuels being burned, we could see a dramatic drop in pollution-related illnesses, cleaner air, and a significant cut in carbon emissions. The challenge now is to figure out how to harness this potential. Read more: Solving the climate crisis requires more than switching to renewables—everyone needs equal access.
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Newsletter
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DNC aims to lead by example with carbon reduction efforts at Chicago convention
Climate-conscious attendees at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago are being urged to actively participate in sustainability efforts, from carbon insetting to recycling and composting.
In short:
- The DNC has launched a Travel Carbon Inset Initiative to encourage attendees to donate to local sustainable projects, aiming to mitigate the event's carbon footprint.
- Sustainability measures include compost collection, increased recycling at the United Center and using grid power instead of diesel generators.
- Critics of carbon offsetting highlight that this initiative could serve as a more effective model for reducing emissions at large events.
Key quote:
“This convention has the potential to leave a transformative legacy.”
— Stephanie Katsaros, local sustainability advisor
Why this matters:
This move aligns with the broader shift we’re seeing across the board: organizations, events, and even individuals are looking for more authentic ways to reduce their environmental impact. It’s a small step in the right direction, showing that even large-scale political events can rethink their approach to sustainability, one donation at a time. Read more: Biden administration unveils plan to wean US government off single-use plastic.
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Harris could redefine climate leadership in 2024
Vice President Kamala Harris' entry into the presidential race has ignited hope among environmentalists that her administration could push climate action further than President Biden’s, particularly by holding Big Oil accountable and addressing historic injustices.
In short:
- Harris has a history of challenging the oil industry and supporting environmental justice, making her a strong contender for advancing climate policies.
- Her choice of running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, strengthens her climate credentials, especially given his success in making Minnesota carbon-free by 2040.
- Despite skepticism from the Trump campaign, Harris’ focus on real-world benefits and her ability to communicate climate issues resonate with many voters.
Key quote:
She has a record of "making sure that Black and brown and low-income communities aren’t disproportionately impacted by corporate pollution."
— Kaniela Ing, national director of The Green New Deal Network
Why this matters:
While she’s likely to continue Biden's pragmatic approach, Kamala Harris's history as a prosecutor and a champion for justice could bring a fresh perspective to the fight against climate change. Read more: Robbie Parks on climate justice and mental health.
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Sweden shows how to slash emissions while boosting the economy
Sweden has managed to cut 80% of its emissions since 1990 while doubling its economy, proving that economic growth and climate protection can go hand in hand.
In short:
- Sweden's success comes from early investments in renewable energy, utilizing its natural resources like forests and hydropower.
- The country transitioned away from fossil fuels for heating and electricity, with biofuels now powering 97% of heating.
- Strong government policies, including a high carbon tax, incentivized businesses and citizens to adopt greener practices.
Key quote:
"The biggest lesson is that you need close cooperation between government, private sector, and the local government as well to really develop these system solutions together and take risks, make these big long-term investments."
— Asa Persson, advisor to the Swedish government on climate policy.
Why this matters:
By investing in green tech, enforcing strict environmental regulations and pushing for a circular economy where waste becomes a resource, Sweden is showing the world that you don’t have to choose between a healthy planet and a thriving economy. Read more: Steps to re-invigorate the economy must free us from polluting fossil fuels.
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How the Inflation Reduction Act is helping churches go solar
Churches, synagogues, and mosques nationwide are embracing solar power, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act's incentives and financial support.
In short:
- The Inflation Reduction Act provides clean energy grants and tax credits, enabling places of worship to install solar panels and save on electricity bills.
- Churches like Watts-Willowbrook Church of Christ in Compton are using these savings to support community programs, such as food ministries and energy costs.
- Solar installations in religious institutions are spreading to underserved communities, promoting environmental justice and economic savings.
Key quote:
“Installing solar panels gives them an opportunity for funding to use in other areas of ministries.”
— Linda Cleveland, Watts Clean Air and Energy Committee
Why this matters:
This move isn't just about cutting down on those hefty energy bills—it's a green leap towards sustainability, showing congregations how faith and eco-consciousness can coexist. By tapping into the cost, climate, and reliability perks of solar energy, religious institutions are setting an example that combines moral responsibility with financial savvy. Read more: House Speaker Mike Johnson’s climate change playbook — deny the science, take the funding.
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Restoring our atmosphere is a new frontier in climate action
Rob Jackson's new book, Into the Clear Blue Sky, emphasizes the urgent need to not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also restore the atmosphere's health to pre-industrial levels through a concept he calls "atmospheric restoration."
In short:
- Climate scientist Rob Jackson calls for restoring greenhouse gases to pre-industrial levels, emphasizing methane due to its short atmospheric lifespan.
- Jackson highlights the importance of diverse climate solutions, even those that may not be widely favored, to tackle emissions and restore atmospheric health.
- The book advocates for seeing climate action as a pathway to improved health and longer lives, addressing pollution's deadly impacts.
Key quote:
"I emphasize methane in the book because I believe it’s the strongest lever we have to make a difference for short-term temperatures over the next decade or two."
— Rob Jackson, climate scientist
Why this matters:
Into the Clear Blue Sky outlines practical steps and innovative ideas to not just halt the damage but actively restore our planet's health. Read more: Oil and gas methane emissions in US are at least 15% higher than we thought.
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A Harris presidency could reshape the US climate policy
Vice President Harris, known for her strong environmental stance, might carry forward Biden’s climate policies with significant implications for the U.S.'s climate future.
Joshua Partlow and Brady Dennis report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Environmentalists have praised Harris' voting record on environmental issues, including sponsoring the Green New Deal.
- The Biden-Harris administration has significantly advanced renewable energy through the Inflation Reduction Act and reversed Trump-era rollbacks on pollution regulations.
- Harris’s running mate selection could influence her climate agenda, especially in battleground states reliant on fossil fuels.
Key quote:
“I think these issues really are core to who she is, and she cares deeply. I think she would be rock solid and determined to carry on and build on the progress of this administration.”
— Tiernan Sittenfeld, senior vice president for government affairs at the League of Conservation Voters.
Why this matters:
With a track record of supporting green initiatives and a commitment to environmental justice, Kamala Harris's potential presidency could mean ramped-up efforts to curb emissions, invest in renewable energy, and hold polluters accountable. Read more: Speaker Mike Johnson’s climate change playbook — deny the science, take the funding.
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