Articles tagged with "carbon-emissions-reduction"
Philippine MTerra Solar Project To Be Connected To The Grid Very Soon - CleanTechnica
The Philippine Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved a P14.25-billion ($250 million) transmission network to connect the MTerra Solar Project, developed by Terra Solar Philippines Inc., to the national grid. This infrastructure, nearly 90% complete, will transmit power generated from the solar installations in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan to consumers across Luzon. Currently, the facility has installed 778 megawatts (MW) of solar panels, making it the largest operational solar plant in the country. Once fully completed, the project aims to generate 3,500 MW of solar power complemented by a 4,500-megawatt-hour battery storage system, with the first phase targeted to come online by early 2026. The battery storage will enable power supply during peak evening hours, addressing the Philippines’ chronic power reliability issues and reducing brownouts. The project is significant for Filipino consumers as it promises to lower electricity costs by providing solar power at rates below fossil fuel alternatives, thereby
energysolar-powerbattery-storagerenewable-energypower-gridenergy-infrastructurecarbon-emissions-reductionSignificant Savings from 120-Volt Heat Pump Water Heaters - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights significant cost savings and practical benefits from the adoption of 120-volt plug-in heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) in California. Traditionally, heat pump water heaters required 240-volt hardwiring, which often necessitated costly electrical panel upgrades and new wiring, especially when replacing gas water heaters that lacked existing electrical connections. In 2023, manufacturers Rheem and A.O. Smith introduced 120-volt plug-in HPWHs that can operate efficiently by plugging into standard outlets, avoiding the need for electrical resistance backup heating common in 240-volt models. Data from the TECH Clean California program shows that these 120-volt HPWHs cost about 22% less to install—approximately $1,700 on average—and only 2% required electrical service upgrades, compared to over 25% for 240-volt units. This development is significant because it reduces installation complexity and cost, making heat pump water heaters more accessible to homeowners
energyheat-pump-water-heaterenergy-efficiencyresidential-energyelectric-water-heaterscarbon-emissions-reductionenergy-savingsFrom Gray Glue to Green Foundations: Cement’s 2100 Transition - CleanTechnica
The article "From Gray Glue to Green Foundations: Cement’s 2100 Transition" by TFIE Strategy Inc highlights the critical role cement plays in global infrastructure and its significant contribution—nearly 10%—to worldwide CO2 emissions. It emphasizes the urgent need to retain cement’s benefits while eliminating its carbon footprint. The report outlines a multi-faceted transition strategy for the cement and concrete industries through the 21st century, combining technological innovation, material substitution, and demand reduction. Key solutions include electrifying cement kiln process heat using emerging high-temperature electric technologies, which would reduce reliance on fossil fuels and facilitate carbon capture by isolating CO2 from limestone. Additionally, replacing traditional Portland cement with alternative binders such as calcined clays (e.g., LC3), geopolymers, and alkali-activated slag can significantly cut emissions. These alternatives use industrial by-products or abundant minerals and are commercially viable but require standardized testing and supportive policies to scale. Demand reduction strategies involve optimized building
energycement-industrydecarbonizationelectrificationrenewable-energysustainable-materialscarbon-emissions-reductionScientists turn streetlights into EV charging stations in bold move
Researchers at Penn State have developed an innovative framework to convert existing streetlights into electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, addressing a critical challenge in urban EV adoption—lack of convenient charging infrastructure. They installed 23 streetlight charging units in Kansas City and Missouri, collecting data over a year to evaluate their effectiveness. Streetlights offer a cost-effective, accessible, and time-saving alternative to traditional charging stations, especially benefiting residents of apartments and multi-unit dwellings who often lack home charging options. The project leveraged existing municipal power lines and infrastructure, making installation cheaper and enabling faster charging without the congestion typical of commercial stations. The research team collaborated with local governments, utility providers, and the National Renewable Energy Lab to retrofit streetlights and developed a three-part framework focused on demand, feasibility, and benefits that other communities can adopt. Scalability and equitable distribution were key considerations, with AI models incorporating land use, traffic, and community engagement to ensure fair access across diverse neighborhoods. The streetlight chargers also contribute to environmental
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-charging-stationsstreetlight-chargingrenewable-energyurban-infrastructurecarbon-emissions-reductionSouth Africa's Eskom Acquires Its First 20 Electric Vehicles - CleanTechnica
South Africa’s national electricity utility, Eskom, has launched its first fleet of 20 electric vehicles (EVs), marking a significant step toward sustainable transport and a cleaner energy future. The Distribution Division is spearheading this initiative, with plans to electrify the entire fleet by 2040. Eskom has already installed 10 EV charging stations across five sites in partnership with GridCars, featuring both DC fast chargers and dual AC chargers to support overnight and workplace charging. These stations lay the foundation for Eskom’s broader strategy to expand EV adoption and infrastructure, including the rollout of 55 public charging stations over the next two years. The newly acquired EVs, ranging from light delivery vehicles to light trucks, will primarily serve the Distribution and Generation Divisions, demonstrating the operational benefits of e-mobility such as lower emissions, reduced operating costs, and improved efficiency. Eskom’s vision extends beyond vehicle electrification to transforming South Africa’s energy landscape by integrating EV load forecasting into grid planning and developing
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-charging-stationssustainable-transportcarbon-emissions-reductionrenewable-energyfleet-electrification110 MW: China rolls out giant gas turbine to power 3.6 million homes
China has introduced its first domestically developed 110-megawatt heavy-duty gas turbine, the Taihang 110 (AGT-110), marking a significant advancement in the country’s industrial capabilities. Developed by the Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC), this turbine features multi-fuel capability, operating on oil, natural gas, and medium-to-low calorific gases, and is designed for combined heat and power generation, natural-gas peaking plants, and combined-cycle power stations. The AGT-110 boasts rapid start-up, high combined-cycle thermal efficiency, and low maintenance needs. It can integrate with renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower, and is expected to reduce carbon emissions by over 1 million tons annually compared to similar-capacity thermal units. The turbine’s output can supply electricity to between 10,000 and 15,000 households daily. The development of the Taihang 110 represents a major industrial milestone for China, demonstrating breakthroughs in turbine
energygas-turbinecombined-cycle-powercarbon-emissions-reductionhydrogen-fueladvanced-materialspower-generationUK's first recycled EV battery cells cut carbon emissions by 32%
Altilium and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) have unveiled the UK’s first electric vehicle (EV) battery cells made using recycled cathode and anode materials, showcased at Cenex Expo 2025. These automotive-grade NMC 811 multilayer pouch cells incorporate cathode active material (CAM) recovered from end-of-life EV batteries via Altilium’s EcoCathode process, achieving recycled content levels that meet EU 2036 targets. Initial tests demonstrated performance on par with conventional materials, with JLR conducting further validation. Additionally, single-layer pouch cells with 100% recycled cathode and graphite anode materials were produced and integrated into a virtual reality model of the Jaguar I-PACE battery pack, highlighting the practical application of recycled components. An independent Life Cycle Assessment by Minviro confirmed significant environmental benefits, showing that using 100% recycled CAM in NMC 811 cells could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 32% compared to virgin materials sourced from Asia. Other environmental impacts
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-recyclingsustainable-materialsEV-batteriescarbon-emissions-reductioncircular-economyFinnish City Inaugurates 1 MW/100 MWh Sand Battery - CleanTechnica
The Finnish city of Pornainen has inaugurated a large-scale sand battery system—a 1 MW/100 MWh thermal energy storage solution developed in collaboration between the local district heating company Loviisan Lämpö and Polar Night Energy. This innovative sand battery, housed in a 42-foot-tall steel cylinder filled with 2,000 tons of crushed soapstone chips, stores excess renewable electricity as heat by circulating hot air through the crushed stone. The stored heat is then distributed via district heating pipelines to buildings, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The system is expected to cut carbon emissions from district heating by 70 percent, completely eliminating oil use and supplementing with carbon-neutral wood chips. The sand battery operates with a round-trip efficiency of about 90%, offering a simple, safe, and durable alternative to chemical batteries, as it does not degrade or pose fire risks. It leverages software to heat the storage during periods of low electricity prices, which has enabled the district heating operator to pay only
energyenergy-storagesand-batterydistrict-heatingrenewable-energycarbon-emissions-reductionFinlandHouston team unveils low-cost carbon capture with 90% efficiency
A research team at the University of Houston, led by Professor Mim Rahimi, has developed two significant innovations aimed at making carbon capture more efficient and affordable. The first breakthrough replaces costly ion-exchange membranes in amine-based CO₂ capture systems with engineered gas diffusion electrodes, achieving over 90% carbon removal efficiency—nearly 50% higher than traditional electrochemically mediated amine regeneration (EMAR) methods. This membraneless system also reduces energy consumption and lowers capture costs to about $70 per metric ton, comparable to leading amine scrubbing technologies, potentially enabling easier retrofitting of existing industrial exhaust systems. The second innovation integrates carbon capture with renewable energy storage through a vanadium redox flow battery developed by Ph.D. student Mohsen Afshari. This system captures CO₂ during battery charging and releases it upon discharge, while maintaining cycle stability and strong capture capacity. By combining carbon removal with grid stabilization, this dual-function device could help power plants and heavy emitters reduce
energycarbon-captureredox-flow-batteryrenewable-energy-storagedecarbonizationelectrochemical-systemscarbon-emissions-reductionDead EV batteries hold 80% lithium, offering recycling potential
A recent Australian study highlights that discarded electric vehicle (EV) lithium-ion batteries still retain about 80% of their lithium content, presenting a significant opportunity for recycling. Recycling these batteries not only recovers high-purity lithium (near 99%) but also valuable metals like nickel and cobalt. Compared to traditional lithium mining, recycling reduces carbon emissions by 61%, energy use by 83%, and water consumption by 79%, making it a cleaner and more sustainable approach. With the global lithium-ion battery market expected to grow 13% annually and battery waste projected to reach 137,000 tons per year in Australia alone, recycling could address both environmental and economic challenges, including job creation and waste reduction. Despite these benefits, challenges remain, such as rapidly evolving battery chemistries and lagging policy development, which complicate recycling processes. Experts emphasize the need for investment in infrastructure to support a circular economy for lithium batteries. While companies like Belgium’s Umicore, the U.S.’s Redwood
energylithium-ion-batteriesbattery-recyclingelectric-vehiclessustainable-materialscarbon-emissions-reductioncircular-economyUsing retired EV batteries cuts more carbon emissions than recycling
A collaborative study by researchers from the University of Münster, Fraunhofer Research Institution, and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory analyzed end-of-life strategies for electric vehicle (EV) batteries in California through 2050. They compared three scenarios: immediate recycling, minimal reuse, and prioritizing second-life use in stationary energy storage before recycling. The findings show that repurposing retired EV batteries as grid-connected storage—especially in regions with high renewable energy penetration—can reduce carbon emissions more significantly than recycling alone. Specifically, second-life use could cut an additional 8 million tons of CO₂ emissions beyond the 48 million tons avoided by direct recycling, totaling 56 million tons of avoided emissions by substituting new battery manufacturing with refurbished packs. However, the study also highlights an impending oversupply of retired EV batteries that will exceed California’s stationary storage demand by mid-century, even when using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries favored for such applications. This surplus underscores the urgent need for early investment in large-scale recycling
energyelectric-vehicle-batteriesbattery-recyclingcarbon-emissions-reductionstationary-energy-storagerenewable-energy-integrationbattery-reuseMassive 123-foot wind wings to propel giant tankers and slash CO2
The article discusses the pioneering installation of BAR Technologies' WindWings propulsion system on two new LR2 dual-fuel tankers, Suzuka and Long Beach, marking one of the first large-scale wind-assisted propulsion deployments for this vessel class. Each 820-foot tanker will be equipped with two 123-foot WindWings, designed using Bernoulli’s principle, aiming to significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The project, involving design by Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute and construction by Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry, follows successful integration of the system on a smaller tanker, Brands Hatch. Construction is set to begin in November 2025, with delivery expected in early 2027. The WindWings system is projected to save about three tons of fuel daily per vessel, cutting approximately 2,300 tons of CO2 emissions annually—equivalent to removing over 500 passenger cars from the road. This supports early compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s 2030 targets for greenhouse
energywind-powermaritime-technologysustainable-shippingcarbon-emissions-reductiondual-fuel-tankersrenewable-energyMandarin Oriental Hyde Park–London Has Solar Heat Technology Installed - CleanTechnica
The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London, a luxury hotel with over 180 rooms and multiple amenities, has installed rooftop solar thermal technology to generate hot water, aiming to reduce its carbon emissions by approximately 7.3 tons annually. This solar heat system, provided and installed by renewable technology specialists Naked Energy, represents the first use of this technology in a UK hotel. Unlike solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that convert sunlight into electricity at about 20% efficiency, the solar thermal collectors convert 60-80% of solar energy into heat, making them significantly more efficient for producing hot water. The system has a minimum lifespan of 25 years and is integrated into the hotel’s existing heating infrastructure, although it does not supply all the hotel's hot water due to limited roof space. This installation marks a significant sustainability commitment by the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, transitioning from its previous reliance on gas for hot water. The project serves as a proof-of-concept for the hospitality industry, which faces increasing energy demands primarily
energysolar-thermal-technologyrenewable-energycarbon-emissions-reductionsolar-heatsustainable-energyhotel-energy-solutionsNew Zealand firm extracts battery metals from olivine with no waste
New Zealand-based Aspiring Materials has developed a patented chemical process that extracts valuable battery metals—specifically nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) hydroxide—from the mineral olivine without generating waste or carbon dioxide emissions. This innovation addresses the traditionally low economic value of olivine by transforming it into critical materials used in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage, while also supporting industrial decarbonization efforts. The process yields multiple products: about 50% silica, usable as a partial substitute for Portland cement; roughly 40% magnesium products applicable in carbon sequestration and wastewater treatment; and the remaining 10% comprising iron combined with NMC hydroxide. Beyond carbon capture, this approach enables broader utilization of olivine-derived minerals, potentially reducing reliance on international supply chains for critical battery metals. Aspiring Materials has completed the first phase of its pilot plant and is expanding capacity to produce up to 250 kg of product daily, advancing domestic, low-carbon production of essential
energybattery-materialsnickel-manganese-cobaltolivinecarbon-emissions-reductionindustrial-mineralssustainable-materialsAirlines, e-SAF Producers, and NGOs Get Behind e-SAF - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the growing support among airlines, e-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF) producers, and NGOs for e-SAF as a critical component in advancing European competitiveness, autonomy, and the clean technology sector. e-SAF offers a significant environmental benefit, with the potential to reduce CO₂ emissions by over 90% compared to conventional fossil jet fuels. Europe is positioned to lead in this area, with 41 announced e-SAF projects that represent a unique opportunity to merge climate goals with industrial innovation and strategic independence. To capitalize on this potential, the article emphasizes the need for the European Union to leverage the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) to accelerate e-SAF deployment. Key recommendations include prioritizing e-SAF through a dedicated EU strategy with targeted financial support, maintaining the ReFuelEU regulation’s e-SAF sub-target and associated penalties, and ensuring fair market access and competition. Additionally, the creation of a market intermediary funded by aviation ETS revenues is proposed
energysustainable-aviation-fuele-SAFclean-technologycarbon-emissions-reductionEuropean-Union-energy-policyrenewable-energyAva Community Energy Launches Instant Rebate Program For Up To 9,000 E-Bikes - CleanTechnica
Ava Community Energy, an electricity provider in California’s Bay Area, has launched an instant rebate program aimed at facilitating the purchase of up to 9,000 e-bikes for residents within its service area, including Alameda County. Starting July 8, eligible customers aged 18 and older can apply for rebates through the Bike Electric program, which supports equitable access to sustainable transportation. The initiative is designed to reduce transportation-related carbon emissions and road congestion by encouraging the use of e-bikes as an affordable, low-emission alternative for errands, commutes, and recreation. E-bikes offer several advantages, including ease of charging via standard electrical outlets and suitability for a wide range of users, with options such as standard, cargo, and adaptive e-bikes available. They are particularly effective for short trips under three miles, which constitute half of daily trips in the U.S., making them a practical substitute for gas-powered vehicles. Additionally, e-bikes complement public transit by serving as a first- or
energyelectric-bikese-bike-rebatessustainable-transportationcarbon-emissions-reductionclean-energyelectric-vehiclesWorld’s largest solar car vessel carries 4,000 vehicles on first voyage
The Yuanhai Kou, built by China COSCO Shipping Corporation, is the world’s largest solar-powered car carrier vessel and has completed its maiden voyage delivering 4,000 Chinese-made vehicles to Greece. Measuring nearly 200 meters in length with a gross tonnage of 68,252 tons, the ship features 12 vehicle decks capable of transporting up to 7,000 vehicles, including passenger cars and buses. It is equipped with the largest shipborne photovoltaic system, generating a peak power output of 302.8 kilowatts and producing about 410,000 kWh annually through over 500 high-efficiency Longi Sea-Shield solar modules. These solar panels reduce fuel consumption by approximately 111 tons and cut CO₂ emissions by nearly 346 tons per year, contributing to significant environmental benefits. The Yuanhai Kou operates with a dual-fuel engine using liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel oil, achieving around 20% energy savings and a 24% reduction
energysolar-powerphotovoltaic-systemgreen-shippingLNG-fuelcarbon-emissions-reductionmaritime-transportLynk & Co Unveils Revised Sustainability Strategy in 2024 Report - CleanTechnica
Lynk & Co International has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, outlining a revised strategy focused on advancing sustainable mobility through intensified climate action, circular economy initiatives, and strengthened governance. The updated strategy, developed using a double materiality assessment and aligned with the CSRD/ESRS framework, centers on three pillars: Climate Action, Circular Economy, and Responsible Business. The company has set ambitious targets including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2044, reducing car life-cycle CO₂e emissions by 50% by 2030, and sourcing 100% renewable electricity for battery production by 2025. Key achievements in 2024 include the launch of Lynk & Co’s first fully electric vehicle in Europe, the Lynk & Co 02, a 54% reduction in total emissions since 2022, and over 6,000 peer-to-peer car-sharing sessions generating €400,000 in payments to car owners via the company’s platform.
energysustainabilityelectric-vehiclesrenewable-energyclimate-actioncircular-economycarbon-emissions-reductionWind-powered cargo ship hits 99.6% use, cuts 20 tons CO2 daily
The Canopée cargo ship, the world’s first hybrid electric and thermal-powered industrial vessel equipped with four automated OceanWings vertical sails, has successfully completed two years of continuous operation transporting Ariane 6 rocket parts between Europe and French Guiana. This pioneering wind-assisted propulsion system has demonstrated significant real-world fuel savings, averaging 5.2 tons daily, equivalent to about 1,200 kW of engine power saved. Each wingsail contributes roughly 1.3 tons of daily fuel savings, translating to over 20.8 tons of CO2 emissions avoided per day. The system has achieved an impressive 99.6% operational availability, underscoring its reliability and efficiency in commercial shipping. The Canopée’s performance highlights the potential of wind propulsion as a practical solution to reduce the maritime sector’s greenhouse gas emissions, which currently account for 3% of global emissions despite shipping transporting 90% of goods worldwide. On recent transatlantic voyages, the ship recorded even higher
energyhybrid-powerwind-propulsioncarbon-emissions-reductionmaritime-technologysustainable-shippingOceanWingsFinland warms up the world’s largest sand battery, and the economics look appealing
Finland has recently activated the world’s largest sand-based thermal energy storage system, located in the town of Pornainen. This “sand battery” stores heat by using electricity—primarily from renewable sources—to warm 2,000 metric tons of pulverized soapstone contained within an insulated silo. The stored heat, which can reach temperatures up to 400 degrees Celsius, is used to supply the town’s district heating network, significantly reducing reliance on oil and wood chips. The system can store 1,000 megawatt-hours of heat for weeks, covering about a week’s heating needs during the Finnish winter, with only 10-15% heat loss during storage and recovery. The economics of the sand battery are attractive due to the low cost of raw materials—soapstone discarded from a fireplace manufacturer—and the relatively simple infrastructure. The battery allows the town to draw electricity when prices are lowest, benefiting from Finland’s clean and affordable grid, which is powered 43% by renewables and
energythermal-energy-storagesand-batteryrenewable-energydistrict-heatingcarbon-emissions-reductionFinland-energy-innovationLò phản ứng Trung Quốc lập kỷ lục hoạt động lâu nhất
energynuclear-energyCANDU-reactorcarbon-emissions-reductionpower-generationrenewable-energyenergy-efficiency