Solar Surges in U.S. Power Mix, China’s Emissions Fall & EVs Hit the Spotlight
The IEA’s latest Global EV Outlook explores the accelerating shift to electric mobility worldwide. In the U.S., solar power alone generated over 10% of total electricity last month—overtaking hydro. New analysis reveals electrification potential in industry may be far greater than previously believed, while China records its first emissions drop due to clean energy growth. But not all climate tech is faring well: a setback at Climeworks’ Iceland plant reignites criticism of direct air capture and related technologies.
🌍 IEA Tracks Global EV Trends
The International Energy Agency has released its Global EV Outlook, offering detailed updates on the electric car industry, charging infrastructure, battery trends, and future demand projections. It paints a comprehensive picture of electric mobility’s growing momentum and the energy challenges ahead.
☀️ Solar Hits 10% of U.S. Power
In a significant milestone, solar energy generated over 10% of total U.S. electricity last month—surpassing hydro for the first time. This marks a new high for solar and signals a major shift in the country’s electricity mix.
🔌 Rethinking Industrial Electrification
Energy expert Jan Rosenow once believed heavy industry couldn’t be easily electrified—until the data proved otherwise. New analysis shows that up to 90% of Europe’s industrial process heat could be electrified by 2035, challenging old assumptions about what's possible.
📉 China's Emissions Decline Thanks to Clean Energy
For the first time in recorded history, China's CO₂ emissions are falling not because of reduced demand, but due to clean energy growth. Solar, wind, and hydropower are driving the change—offering a glimpse into what decarbonisation at scale could look like.
⚠️ Scrutiny Grows Over Direct Air Capture
Climeworks’ carbon removal plant in Iceland has come under fire after reports it failed to offset its own emissions. Critics are using the case to argue that direct air capture, blue hydrogen, and similar technologies are unproven “scams” offering little climate benefit.