Articles tagged with "electricity-generation"
10 largest dams in the world and their incredible engineering feats
The article highlights the world’s ten largest hydroelectric dams, emphasizing their monumental engineering achievements and multifaceted roles in energy generation, flood control, and regional development. These dams represent decades of innovation and investment, showcasing how nations harness river systems to meet energy demands while addressing environmental and economic challenges. The list is ranked by installed hydroelectric capacity, illustrating the scale and impact of these megastructures. Leading the list is China’s Three Gorges Dam, the most powerful hydroelectric dam globally with a capacity of 22,500 MW. Completed in 2006 on the Yangtze River, it not only generates 84 terawatt-hours annually but also improves flood control and navigation, significantly boosting shipping capacity and reducing costs. China’s Baihetan Dam, completed in 2022 with 16,000 MW capacity, features the world’s most powerful single-unit turbines and plays a key role in reducing coal dependence and enhancing energy access in western provinces. The Itaipu Dam, a Brazil
energyhydroelectric-powerdamsrenewable-energyinfrastructureelectricity-generationwater-engineeringHawaii’s LNG Detour: Why A Fossil Bridge Arriving In The 2030s Makes No Sense - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses Hawaii’s reconsideration of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a transitional fuel to move away from heavy oil dependence toward a renewable energy future. Hawaii currently relies heavily on oil, especially on Oahu, where most electricity generation comes from residual fuel oil and diesel, resulting in high costs and significant pollution. LNG is seen by some as a cleaner and potentially cheaper alternative that could provide reliable, dispatchable power while the state expands its wind, solar, and battery capacity. Proponents argue LNG could reduce harmful emissions like sulfur dioxide and particulates compared to oil and offer more operational flexibility. However, the article highlights significant concerns about LNG’s suitability as a "bridge" fuel. The infrastructure costs for LNG are substantial, with estimates exceeding $1 billion for floating storage, pipelines, and new gas plants. These investments would need to be recovered before Hawaii’s 2045 goal of 100% renewable electricity, or else risk becoming stranded assets. Moreover, the
energyLNGrenewable-energyelectricity-generationHawaii-energy-policynatural-gaspower-infrastructureCalifornia Natural Gas Use for Electricity Falls as Solar Generation Rises - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights a significant shift in California's electricity generation mix, with natural gas use declining as solar power generation rises. Between January and August 2025, California generated 140.9 billion kilowatt-hours (BkWh) of electricity, an 8% increase from the same period in 2020. Solar generation nearly doubled during this timeframe, reaching 40.3 BkWh compared to 22.0 BkWh in 2020, and increased by 17% from 2024 to 2025 alone. Conversely, natural gas generation fell by 18% over the same five-year span, supplying 45.5 BkWh in early 2025. The article notes that natural gas output can spike during low-water years when hydroelectric power is reduced, as seen in 2021. The data also reveal a daily pattern where natural gas generation decreases during midday hours when solar output peaks, particularly between noon and 5 p.m.
energysolar-powernatural-gaselectricity-generationrenewable-energybattery-storageCalifornia-energy-marketX-energy rides nuclear wave, raises $700M Series D
Nuclear startup X-energy has raised $700 million in a Series D funding round, bringing its total capital raised to $1.8 billion. This new round follows an expanded Series C that increased from $500 million to $700 million, resulting in $1.4 billion raised over the past year. The Series D was led by Jane Street, with participation from investors including Ares Management, ARK Invest, Emerson Collective, and others. X-energy is developing high-temperature, gas-cooled Xe-100 reactors, each producing 80 megawatts of electricity. These reactors use uranium fuel encapsulated in carbon-coated pebbles cooled by helium gas, generating heat that drives steam turbines. X-energy has gained traction amid growing interest in nuclear power from technology companies and data center operators. Notably, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund invested in X-energy’s Series C and announced plans to purchase nuclear capacity from the company, potentially deploying up to 5 gigawatts of nuclear power by 203
energynuclear-powerX-energyhigh-temperature-reactorsclean-energygas-cooled-reactorselectricity-generationWaste cardboard could help power plants in large-scale electricity generation: Study
A recent study by engineers at the University of Nottingham has demonstrated that waste cardboard can serve as an effective biomass fuel for large-scale electricity generation. The researchers developed a novel thermogravimetric method to accurately measure calcium carbonate content in cardboard, a key factor affecting combustion behavior and ash formation. Printed cardboard contains lower carbon and heating values than traditional biomass fuels and includes calcium carbonate fillers that can influence boiler performance. This new analytical tool enables precise assessment of cardboard’s fuel quality, offering practical guidance for its use in power plants. In the U.K., biomass is the second largest renewable energy source, with wood pellets and chips dominating current supply, much of which is imported. With the U.K. generating approximately 5.4 million tons of paper and cardboard packaging waste annually, utilizing cardboard as a domestic biomass resource could enhance energy security and sustainability. Cardboard typically undergoes recycling several times before disposal, but this study suggests it can be directly used as a fuel, reducing reliance on imports and supporting circular economy
energybiomass-fuelwaste-cardboardelectricity-generationrenewable-energypower-plantssustainabilityUK wind farms generate record 22.7 GW in a day, enough to power 22 million homes
On November 11, the UK’s wind farms set a new record by generating 22.7 gigawatts (GW) of electricity at 7:30 pm, enough to power 22 million homes. This output surpassed the previous record of 22.5 GW set less than a year earlier and marked a moment when wind energy supplied over half (55.7%) of the nation’s electricity demand. The high generation was driven by windy conditions, especially in northern England and Scotland, and included both grid-connected and embedded wind power feeding local networks. This milestone highlights the UK’s rapid progress toward a clean energy future and demonstrates the national grid’s capability to operate securely with large renewable inputs. The energy mix on that day was notably decarbonized, with wind contributing 43.6% from the main grid plus 12.1% from embedded sources, followed by gas (12.5%), interconnectors (11.3%), nuclear (8%), and biomass (8%).
energywind-powerrenewable-energyUK-energy-gridoffshore-wind-farmsclean-energyelectricity-generationSEIA Says Solar Still Cheapest Source Of Electricity, Australia Unveils Free Solar Plan - CleanTechnica
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) emphasizes that solar power remains the cheapest source of electricity in the United States, despite ongoing political and regulatory challenges. SEIA criticizes the current U.S. administration, particularly Energy Secretary Chris Wright, for favoring fossil fuels through substantial subsidies and policies that hinder renewable energy development. The association highlights that fossil fuels have historically benefited from massive, often hidden, government subsidies—over $16 billion in 2023 and $30 billion projected in 2024—while clean energy tax credits have been reduced. SEIA argues this creates an uneven playing field, contradicting claims of fair competition and free market principles. SEIA points out that fossil fuel subsidies include tax deductions for drilling costs and recent legislative actions that support coal, such as new tax credits for metallurgical coal and grants to extend the life of aging coal-fired plants. In contrast, solar energy continues to grow rapidly due to significant cost declines since the early 2010s, making it the most cost
energysolar-energyrenewable-energyenergy-policyfossil-fuelssubsidieselectricity-generationUS Coal Exports Drop 11% — Tariffs & Lower Demand Top Reasons - CleanTechnica
US coal exports declined by approximately 11% in the first half of 2025, with key factors including tariffs imposed during Donald Trump’s presidency and weakening global demand. Specifically, exports to China, historically the largest buyer, dropped significantly after China enacted import restrictions on US coal in early 2025. China accounted for roughly 70% of the overall decline in US coal exports, impacting both metallurgical and steam coal categories. The global coal market is also characterized by oversupply and soft demand, further contributing to reduced US coal exports. Domestically, US coal consumption for electricity generation has decreased due to shifting demand and competition from cheaper natural gas and renewable energy sources. Globally, renewable energy capacity additions have outpaced coal, signaling a structural decline in coal demand. Notably, China’s coal-fired electricity generation fell sharply in early 2025 despite rising electricity demand, indicating a significant shift away from coal in the world’s largest coal-consuming economy. The article emphasizes that coal, as an
energycoal-exportsfossil-fuelsrenewable-energyUS-energy-policyChina-coal-importselectricity-generationAl Gore Nails It Again — This Is Where We Are - CleanTechnica
In a recent StrictlyVC Download podcast, Al Gore emphasized both optimism and concern regarding the global energy transition and climate crisis. He highlighted the steady and accelerating progress of clean technologies, which are becoming cheaper, more effective, and increasingly competitive against fossil fuels. Gore asserted that the transition away from fossil fuels is unstoppable, driven by favorable technology, economics, deployment models, and public opinion. However, he cautioned that the critical question remains whether this transition will happen quickly enough to avoid severe climate tipping points, citing a recent alarming report about the absence of the Humboldt Current upwelling, which is vital to marine ecosystems. Gore referenced Dornbusch’s Law, which suggests that change often takes longer than expected initially but then happens rapidly once a tipping point is reached. He believes we have now crossed that point with clean technology, though acceleration is still needed to outpace the worsening effects of climate change. The article underscores that while the clean energy revolution is well underway and irreversible, the race against time
energyclean-technologyrenewable-energyfossil-fuel-transitionclimate-changebattery-technologyelectricity-generationWave-powered underwater pole system completes final dry tests
Dutch company Symphony Wave Power has successfully completed dry testing of its innovative underwater wave energy converter, marking a significant milestone ahead of its planned 2026 deployment in the North Sea. The system is a fully submerged point absorber that harnesses wave-induced pressure variations to generate renewable electricity. Unlike traditional surface buoys, it operates invisibly beneath the sea surface, using a fixed seabed-anchored core and a vertically moving hull separated by a flexible liquid- and air-filled membrane. Wave motion forces liquid through a bidirectional turbine connected to a generator, producing clean, stable power that can feed directly into an underwater DC grid. The technology boasts up to 500% higher efficiency than conventional non-resonant designs by tuning its internal spring to resonate with wave frequencies, maximizing energy capture. It is designed to be simple, sustainable, and low-impact, with only two moving parts made from recyclable materials, and requires minimal installation effort and maintenance. Clusters of up to 60 units can generate as much as
energywave-energyrenewable-energyunderwater-energy-converteroffshore-energysustainable-technologyelectricity-generationWorld hits a clean power milestone as solar and wind overtake coal
For the first time in history, wind and solar power have generated more electricity globally than coal, marking a significant milestone in the transition to clean energy. According to a report by the climate think tank Ember, in the first half of 2025, renewable energy sources not only met the world’s rising electricity demand but also contributed to a decline in coal and gas use. Global electricity demand increased by 2.6 percent (369 TWh), with solar and wind generation rising by 31 percent (306 TWh) and 7.7 percent (97 TWh) respectively. Solar energy was the primary driver, accounting for 83 percent of the increase in electricity demand and expanding its share of the global electricity mix from 6.9 percent to 8.8 percent. China led the solar surge, contributing 55 percent of global solar growth, followed by the United States, the European Union, India, and Brazil. Renewables’ total generation reached 5,072 TWh,
energyrenewable-energysolar-powerwind-powerclean-energyelectricity-generationcoal-replacementUS Government Shills For Big Coal - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica criticizes recent U.S. government actions that favor the coal industry despite environmental and economic concerns. The Interior Department plans to open 13.1 million acres of federal land for coal mining and reduce royalty rates for coal companies. The Energy Department is allocating $625 million to upgrade coal plants to extend their operational life, while the EPA intends to repeal numerous Biden-era regulations aimed at limiting coal plant emissions of carbon dioxide, mercury, and other pollutants. These moves are framed as efforts to maintain coal’s role in the U.S. energy mix, even though coal is a major contributor to climate change and often more expensive than alternatives like natural gas or solar power. The article also highlights the growing electricity demand driven by massive data centers supporting artificial intelligence advancements, such as Meta’s planned data center larger than Manhattan. This surge in demand has led to significant utility bill increases for residents near data centers, with some areas experiencing up to a 267% rise in electricity costs over five years
energycoal-miningelectricity-generationdata-centersartificial-intelligenceenergy-policyenvironmental-regulationPer Capita Energy-Related CO2 Emissions Decreased in Every US State between 2005 & 2023 - CleanTechnica
Between 2005 and 2023, every U.S. state experienced a decrease in per capita CO2 emissions from primary energy consumption, contributing to a nationwide 20% reduction in energy-related CO2 emissions. This decline is primarily attributed to a shift in electricity generation from coal to natural gas—which emits about half the CO2 of coal—and increased use of non-emitting renewable sources like wind and solar. Maryland led the nation with a 49% reduction in per capita emissions, driven by a 74% reduction in total CO2 emissions due to coal retirement and renewable energy adoption, alongside population growth. The District of Columbia recorded the lowest per capita emissions at 3.6 metric tons CO2 in 2023. Sectoral shifts also played a significant role: by 2023, the transportation sector became the largest source of CO2 emissions in half of the states, overtaking the electric power sector in many cases due to reduced coal use and relatively stable petroleum consumption for transport. Coastal
energyCO2-emissionsrenewable-energynatural-gascoal-reductionelectricity-generationtransportation-emissionsIce shows hidden ability to produce electricity when stressed: Study
A recent study reveals that ordinary ice can generate electricity when mechanically stressed—bent, stretched, or twisted—through a phenomenon called flexoelectricity. Unlike piezoelectricity, which requires specific crystal symmetries and was previously thought absent in ice due to the cancellation of water molecule dipoles, flexoelectricity can occur in any material symmetry. The research, conducted by teams from Institut Catala de Nanociencia I Nanotecnologia (ICN2), Xi’an Jiaotong University, and Stony Brook University, demonstrated that bending an ice slab between electrodes produced measurable electric potential across a range of temperatures. This discovery helps explain natural electrical phenomena involving ice, such as lightning generated by charged ice particle collisions in thunderstorms. Furthermore, the study uncovered that at extremely low temperatures (below -171.4°F or -113°C), ice develops a thin ferroelectric surface layer capable of reversible electric polarization, akin to magnetic pole flipping. This indicates ice can produce electricity via two
materialsenergyflexoelectricityiceelectricity-generationnanophysicselectromechanical-propertiesIEA: Renewables Will Be World’s Top Power Source "by 2026" - CleanTechnica
The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that renewable energy will surpass coal as the world’s leading source of electricity by 2026 at the latest, driven primarily by rapid growth in wind and solar power. In 2024, wind and solar output exceeded 4,000 terawatt hours (TWh) and is expected to surpass 6,000 TWh by 2026. Together, wind and solar will account for over 90% of the increase in global electricity demand through 2026, supplemented by modest growth in hydropower. Despite political opposition from some right-wing figures in countries like the US and UK, renewables are set to make up 36% of global power supply by 2026, compared to coal’s 32%, marking coal’s lowest share in a century. The decline in coal-fired electricity generation is mainly due to reductions in China and the EU, partially offset by increases in the US, India, and other Asian nations. This shift is
energyrenewable-energywind-powersolar-powerelectricity-generationInternational-Energy-Agencyclean-energy-transitionThese 5 Countries Have 71% of World’s Nuclear Power Capacity - CleanTechnica
As of June 2025, five countries—the United States, France, China, Russia, and South Korea—account for 71% of the world’s total nuclear electricity generation capacity, according to IAEA data. Globally, 416 nuclear reactors operate across 31 countries, totaling 376 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity. The U.S. leads with the largest capacity and nuclear electricity production, operating reactors primarily built between 1967 and 1990, with a high operational capacity factor of 92% in 2024. Nuclear power contributed significantly to U.S. electricity generation in 2023 and 2024. France holds the second-largest nuclear fleet globally and the largest in Europe, with 63 GW installed capacity. Nuclear power supplied nearly 65% of France’s electricity in 2023, a legacy of extensive development following the 1970s oil crisis to enhance energy security. China has rapidly expanded its nuclear capacity since 1991 and currently operates
energynuclear-powerelectricity-generationnuclear-reactorsenergy-capacityclean-energypower-plantsWyoming Wants Renewables — Why Isn't The Trump Administration Listening? - CleanTechnica
The article discusses the conflicting dynamics in Wyoming regarding energy policy under the Trump administration. While Wyoming politicians support the “Big Beautiful Bill” that provides tax breaks to the struggling fossil fuel industry, they are simultaneously concerned about the negative impact of the Trump administration’s executive order terminating clean electricity production and investment tax credits for wind and solar projects. Wyoming generates about 10,200 megawatts of electricity, with nearly one-third coming from wind and solar, which are the fastest-growing and cheapest energy sources in the state. The loss of these tax credits threatens hundreds of renewable energy projects, potentially leading to higher electricity costs for residents and economic setbacks for the state. The Trump administration’s executive order enforces stricter deadlines for renewable projects to qualify for tax credits, requiring construction to begin before July 4, 2026, and operation by the end of 2027. This timeline is challenging given the lengthy permitting processes, especially under an administration less favorable to renewables. The order also criticizes wind and
energyrenewable-energywind-powersolar-powerelectricity-generationenergy-policyclean-energyZimbabwe Looks To IPPs & Rural Minigrids To Plug Electricity Generation Shortages & Increase Access To Electricity - CleanTechnica
The Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Authority (ZERA) released its 2024 annual report highlighting ongoing challenges and efforts in the country’s electricity sector. Zimbabwe continues to face a significant supply-demand gap, with an average available capacity of 1,300 MW against a demand of 1,700 MW. Key issues include low water levels at the Kariba hydroelectric plant, which forced generation cuts to about 300 MW for most of the year, and frequent breakdowns at aging coal-fired units at Hwange Power Station. Although two new 300 MW coal units (Hwange units 7 & 8) were commissioned at a cost of US$1.5 billion, electricity rationing persists, underscoring the urgent need to boost generation capacity. To address these shortages and increase access to electricity, ZERA is actively promoting the involvement of independent power producers (IPPs) and the development of rural minigrids. In 2024, ZERA issued 20 new electricity licenses, including
energyelectricity-generationrenewable-energycoal-powerhydropowerindependent-power-producersenergy-accessUS: Vistra’s 1,268 MW nuclear power plant gets 20-year life extension boost
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved a 20-year license extension for Vistra’s 1,268 MW Perry Nuclear Power Plant in Ohio, allowing it to operate until 2046. Originally licensed for 40 years since its grid connection in 1986, the plant now has a total operating license of 60 years. This extension follows Vistra’s 2023 application and marks the final life extension approval for all six reactors in Vistra’s fleet, enabling continued emission-free electricity supply. Perry is one of the largest boiling water reactors (BWR) in the U.S., with a licensed thermal output of 3,758 MWt after an upgrade in 2020. Located on a 1,100-acre site on Lake Erie, Perry Nuclear Power Plant powers approximately one million homes daily. Although initially planned to have two reactor units, only one was built, with the second canceled in 1994. Vistra officials emphasized the importance of nuclear power
energynuclear-powerpower-plantVistralicense-extensionelectricity-generationclean-energyGerman nuclear plant removes 1,200-ton generators without disassembly
The Unterweser nuclear power plant in Germany has successfully removed four massive steam generators, each weighing approximately 300 tons and standing 20 meters tall, using an innovative heavy lift system without disassembly. Operated by PreussenElektra, the plant was notable for holding world records in power generation before its shutdown in 2011 as part of Germany’s nuclear phase-out. The steam generators were lifted out with precision and high safety standards using Mammoet’s DHS-500 handling system, which allowed for efficient removal by combining with existing cranes and hydraulic skidding, avoiding more time-consuming transport methods. Following removal, the steam generators are scheduled to be shipped to Cyclife in Sweden in July for on-site dismantling and subsequent melting. PreussenElektra is also managing the decommissioning of several other German nuclear plants and has contracted Cyclife for dismantling 16 steam generators across multiple sites. The successful use of the DHS-500 system at Unterweser, building on prior experience
energynuclear-powersteam-generatorspower-plant-decommissioningheavy-lifting-technologyMammoet-DHS-500electricity-generationEnergy Department Orders Michigan Coal Generating Station To Remain Open - CleanTechnica
The U.S. Energy Department, led by Chris Wright, issued an emergency order mandating that the 63-year-old J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant in Michigan remain operational for at least 90 days, overriding a previously approved decommissioning plan set by the Michigan Public Service Commission (PSC) in 2022. The plant was scheduled to close as part of a transition plan that included replacing its capacity with a methane-fired power plant already purchased by Consumers Energy, the utility owner. Wright justified the order by citing concerns over potential electricity shortages in the Midwest during the summer due to insufficient baseload power from coal, gas, and nuclear plants. However, the Michigan PSC and the utility company stated they neither requested nor were consulted about the emergency order, highlighting a lack of coordination and transparency. The decision has drawn criticism for bypassing the usual regulatory process, which typically involves public comment and agency review, and for imposing significant financial burdens on consumers. Dan Scripps, chair of the Michigan PSC, estimated that keeping the coal plant running could cost ratepayers across 15 states tens of millions of dollars, potentially nearing $100 million. The Energy Department defended the order by referencing longstanding warnings from grid operators about the risks of decommissioning baseload power sources but did not provide evidence of a cost-benefit analysis or acknowledge the existing replacement plan. Emergency orders of this nature are described as highly unusual, underscoring the controversial and unprecedented nature of this intervention.
energycoal-powerenergy-policypower-gridelectricity-generationfossil-fuelsenergy-departmentLet’s Talk About Small Modular Reactors - CleanTechnica
nuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsclean-technologyrenewable-energyenergy-productionclimate-changeelectricity-generationTotalEnergies Inaugurates its Largest Solar Field in Europe — in Spain - CleanTechnica
energysolar-powerrenewable-energyTotalEnergiessustainabilityelectricity-generationcarbon-emissionsU.S. Hydropower Generation Expected to Rise in 2025 Following Last Year’s Relative Low - CleanTechnica
energyhydropowerelectricity-generationwater-supplyrenewable-energyprecipitation-patternsU.S.-energy-policyUtility-Scale Outshining Rooftop Solar As Global Solar Market Explodes
energysolar-powerrenewable-energyutility-scale-solarelectricity-generationphotovoltaic-systemsclean-technologyThe Best Solar Power Countries in the World Will Shock You
solar-powerrenewable-energyphotovoltaicelectricity-generationenergy-independencesolar-capacityclean-technologyEVNGENCO2 và CSG LMI Trung Quốc ký bản ghi nhớ hợp tác phát triển thủy điện tích năng
energyhydropowerrenewable-energyenergy-storagesustainable-developmentelectricity-generationinternational-cooperationUBND tỉnh Đồng Nai phê duyệt cho EVN thuê đất mở rộng dự án Thủy điện Trị An
energyhydropowerrenewable-energyelectricity-generationclimate-changeenergy-efficiencyinfrastructure-developmentCalifornia Opposes Rooftop Solar For All The Wrong Reasons
energysolar-powerrooftop-solarutility-ratesCalifornia-energy-policyclean-energyelectricity-generationCơ chế cho nguồn điện sử dụng khí trong nước và LNG nhập khẩu Nghị định 100 2025
energynatural-gaselectricity-generationrenewable-energypower-systemsenergy-policythermal-powerQuy định chi tiết về cơ chế cho các dự án điện sử dụng khí trong nước và LNG nhập khẩu
energynatural-gaselectricity-generationrenewable-energyenergy-policythermal-powerenergy-regulationLào khởi công dự án thủy điện 124 MW đấu nối hệ thống điện Việt Nam
energyhydropowerrenewable-energyelectricity-generationLaosinfrastructureeconomic-developmentLào khởi công dự án thủy điện 124 MW đối nối hệ thống điện Việt Nam
energyhydroelectric-powerrenewable-energyelectricity-generationLaosinfrastructure-developmentclean-energyWhy Balcony Solar Panels Haven’t Taken Off in the US
solar-panelsrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyelectricity-generationbalcony-solarclean-energysolar-technology