UN Report: Renewables Near Parity with Fossil Fuels in Global Power Capacity
The United Nations released a special report highlighting that renewables now nearly match fossil fuels in global installed power capacity, with almost all new capacity added in the past year coming from renewable sources. The clean energy sector drove significant economic growth and now employs almost 35 million people worldwide, outnumbering fossil fuel jobs, signaling a pivotal shift in the global energy landscape.[6]
Trump Administration Ends Solar for All Program, Threatening Clean Energy Access for Low-Income Households
The Trump administration announced plans to terminate the Solar for All initiative, a key clean energy program aimed at improving access and lowering energy bills for low-income households, and eliminating EPA authority over the program. The move has drawn criticism from environmental groups and lawmakers, who warn of negative impacts on community solar projects, ongoing legal challenges, and risks to billions in obligated funding for states and tribes.[3][7]
Department of the Interior Tightens Permitting for Wind and Solar Projects
The Department of the Interior announced that all wind and solar projects now require personal sign-off from the Interior Secretary for permits and eliminated longstanding fee discounts for these projects. The agency will also review regulations within 45 days to remove any preferential treatment for renewables over dispatchable energy sources, potentially slowing deployment and increasing costs for new projects.[4]
Iraq Sets Ambitious Target: 12,000 MW Renewable Energy by 2030
Iraq has announced plans to produce 12 gigawatts of renewable energy, including solar, wind, and waste-to-energy, by 2030 as part of its strategy to diversify its power generation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The initiative marks a major step for Iraq in scaling up clean energy infrastructure and addressing energy security.[1]
Global Renewable Energy Projects Prove Cost-Effectiveness
A July report from IRENA found that 582 GW of new renewable capacity was added globally, with onshore wind projects 53% cheaper and solar projects 41% cheaper than the lowest-priced fossil fuel alternatives. This underscores the increasing economic advantage of renewables over traditional energy sources and supports continued investment in clean power.[1]
High Temperatures Threaten Nuclear Power Output in Southern France
Electricity production at the 2.6 GW Golfech nuclear plant along the Garonne river in southwest France will be affected by high water temperatures from August 12, with other plants in the region also expected to face similar operational challenges. Elevated temperatures, driven by climate change, are increasingly impacting nuclear generation capacity and grid reliability in Europe.