The hottest Energy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

The most epic (and literal) gaslighting of all time

The Crucial Years • 1903 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Climate Energy Legislation Economy International relations
  1. Exxon prioritizes profit over renewable energy, stating wind and solar power don't offer sufficient returns for shareholders.
  2. Exxon's history of deceit and denial regarding climate change has hindered progress for decades.
  3. The need for government intervention to address the climate crisis is highlighted, as market profits often impede meaningful solutions.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #123

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 116 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Neuroscience Defense Energy Weather
  1. E11 Bio is using a creative way to map the brain by injecting viruses that label neurons. This could help us understand the brain better and develop new treatments for neurological issues.
  2. A new study shows deep brain stimulation can help restore walking in people with spinal cord injuries. This method could lead to better recovery options for those with movement difficulties.
  3. Meta is looking to use nuclear energy to power its operations. This move shows a commitment to sustainable energy and could set a trend for other tech companies to follow.

Odds and Ends #46: The transformation of London's skyline, a big week for nuclear, and installing software updates in Antarctica

Odds and Ends of History • 603 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Transportation Energy Infrastructure Government
  1. London's skyline has changed a lot over the past 30 years, showing how cities can evolve over time.
  2. This week was significant for nuclear energy, but its implications could affect the future power landscape.
  3. Patching software in Antarctica is a unique challenge due to the extreme conditions, highlighting the importance of tech even in remote places.
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⤴⤵ Up Wing/Down Wing #23

Faster, Please! • 274 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
💼 Business Economy Innovation Technology Healthcare Energy
  1. The US economy is doing really well, growing almost 3% this past year. This growth is mainly due to increased productivity and low inflation, making it a strong economy overall.
  2. Advancements in technology have made the US oil and gas industry the most productive in the nation. New methods in drilling and efficiency are helping keep energy prices low and the economy strong.
  3. A new AI app called Death Clock can predict how long you'll live and offer tips to improve your health. This app uses a lot of research to give personalized recommendations for a better, longer life.

4.1 Heaviside, Poynting, & Energy Flow

Fields & Energy • 239 implied HN points • 12 Jun 24
🔬 Science Physics Energy Electromagnetism Theories Mathematics
  1. Poynting and Heaviside explained how energy moves through space, not just through wires. They believed that energy travels through the surrounding medium as it shifts from one spot to another.
  2. They challenged the traditional 'fluid' model of electricity, saying that while current flows through wires, the energy actually flows outside of them. This highlights the importance of electric and magnetic fields in energy transfer.
  3. The debate between the fluid model and the electromagnetic theory showed that although the latter was complex, it provided a more accurate understanding of how energy moves in electrical systems.

A Massive Win, and What It Means

The Crucial Years • 2002 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Policy Energy Health Agriculture Research
  1. A huge victory against the fossil fuel industry has been achieved by halting new licenses for LNG export terminals.
  2. Biden's decision sets a climate test for American fossil fuel expansion plans, signaling a transition from natural gas as a 'bridge fuel'.
  3. The fight for climate justice needs to include considerations for impacts on communities and involve effective monitoring and engagement with frontline leaders.

Tankers South

Irina Slav on energy • 982 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict International relations Economy Military Energy
  1. Tanker traffic in the Red Sea is being disrupted due to missile strikes between the Houthis and the Combined Military Forces, leading to rerouted vessels and rising prices.
  2. Container freight rates for vessels traveling to Europe from Asia have reached a 15-month high, with fears of the situation worsening.
  3. Higher shipping prices and emissions are a consequence of vessels avoiding the Red Sea route, affecting the cost of various goods and causing some companies to switch from ships to planes.

Guilt by Association

Doomberg • 6508 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🔬 Science Energy Chemistry Geopolitics Natural Gas Oil
  1. Old practices of thrift are now merchandised as 'upcycling.'
  2. Utilizing byproducts from manufacturing and petrochemical industry is both necessary and economical.
  3. High oil prices incentivize more oil drilling, leading to oversupply and lower natural gas prices in the US.

State of the Future! Part Deux

Let Us Face the Future • 714 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Semiconductors Data Centers Energy Infrastructure
  1. The future of technology is all about connectivity between different sectors like energy, mining, and semiconductors. It's not just about one area, but how they all work together.
  2. Scaling AI is a big focus, and over the next few years, we'll see major advancements in AI models. These models will require massive amounts of power and new infrastructures to support them.
  3. For AI to be widely accepted, we need to prioritize security, privacy, and fairness. This means creating accessible and trustworthy systems for everyone.

3.4.7 What is “Free Space?”

Fields & Energy • 299 implied HN points • 15 May 24
🔬 Science Physics Electromagnetism Energy Theories History
  1. Free space is a place where electromagnetic waves can travel without any barriers. It has properties that support these waves, even if it seems empty.
  2. In history, scientists debated whether something could exist in a vacuum. They realized that the vacuum still has physical qualities, leading to the idea of the 'æther' as a medium for wave propagation.
  3. Modern physics shows that even a vacuum is rich in properties, meaning it's not truly empty. We should recognize that there's always something there, supporting energy and wave movement.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #120

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 137 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Genomics Energy Nanotechnology Data science
  1. The U.S. is planning to triple its nuclear power capacity by 2050, aiming for 200 gigawatts through new reactors and upgrades. This is a big move to meet rising energy demands in a safe and efficient way.
  2. Molecular nanotechnology could revolutionize production, possibly outpacing past technological shifts like the Industrial Revolution. It's an exciting frontier that stands to vastly increase our capabilities in various fields.
  3. Evo, a new AI model, shows promise in predicting and designing genomes, potentially creating new life forms. This technology could push the boundaries of biological science and genetic engineering significantly.

The Great Reallocation

Renewable Revolution • 799 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Renewables Capital Economics Policy
  1. Renewable energy doesn't actually need a huge increase in investment compared to fossil fuels. As fossil fuel spending goes down, the overall increase in spending is only about 2% a year.
  2. Investing in renewables is expected to grow significantly, doubling in the coming years while fossil fuel investments will decline. This shift is possible because renewable technology costs are dropping.
  3. The transition to a cleaner energy system is doable without needing massive funds. The main challenge is making sure that investments focus on developing the right infrastructure and policies.

3.4.6 Permittivity & Permeability

Fields & Energy • 279 implied HN points • 08 May 24
🔬 Science Physics Electromagnetism Materials Energy Theory
  1. Permittivity describes how a material can allow electric displacement, showing the relationship between electric field and displacement. It helps us understand how electric forces behave in different materials.
  2. Permeability relates to how materials respond to magnetic fields, defining the strength of magnetic interactions. It helps in understanding the magnetic forces within various materials.
  3. Both permittivity and permeability are key concepts that link electrical physics and mechanical physics. They provide important information about how electric and magnetic fields interact with materials.

Beyond Earth Technologies: Call to Action

Space Ambition • 799 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Space Tech Biotech Energy Robotics IT Infrastructure
  1. Beyond Earth Technologies is looking for innovative projects that can help with living on other planets and also have real opportunities for business now.
  2. If you're a scientist or inventor working on things like energy, robots, or habitats, you can apply to join their program by January 31st.
  3. You can share this opportunity with friends who have great ideas, and it only takes a few minutes to apply.

Energy in electronic circuits

lcamtuf’s thing • 2244 implied HN points • 16 Oct 23
🔬 Science Physics Electronics Energy Circuits
  1. Designing electronic circuits has become more stringent over the years due to advancements in technology.
  2. Understanding how energy travels through electronic circuits is crucial for circuit stability and efficiency.
  3. High-speed signals in electronic circuits can lead to significant energy expenditure and signal integrity issues.

What the What?

Nova Terra News • 279 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🔬 Science Innovation Materials Construction Energy Sustainability
  1. Nova Terra's EcoBlox are sustainable building blocks that are free of cement, fireproof, and made from waste materials.
  2. The EcoBlox are 4x stronger than traditional adobe, climate-friendly, mold-resistant, and earthquake-resistant.
  3. The production of EcoBlox involves using sand and clay fines from rock quarries, and the company is collaborating with partners like NREL and West Gate for innovation.

All hail nuclear power

Alex's Personal Blog • 65 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Energy AI Innovation Sustainability Startups Regulation
  1. Nuclear power is gaining traction as tech companies look to use it for sustainability and energy needs. This shift could help power data centers efficiently.
  2. Despite general market optimism, there are challenges and doubts about current investment strategies. Investors need to think critically about their options in a changing economy.
  3. The EU is facing criticism regarding its AI regulations, which might push tech development outside the region. This could lead to a lack of innovation and growth in Europe.

⚛ Nuclear power: Faster, please! But also cheaper, please!

Faster, Please! • 1188 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Energy AI Economics Policy Innovation
  1. Nuclear power needs to be developed faster and at a lower cost to be a reliable energy source for the future.
  2. New generations of reactors, like small modular ones, are emphasized for the advancement of nuclear energy.
  3. Building nuclear power plants faces significant delays and challenges globally, hindering progress in the industry.

Natural Gas Between Russia and Europe

Doomberg • 231 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Energy International relations Conflict Economic Policy
  1. Natural gas is a key issue in the relationship between Russia and Europe. This topic has a long history and is very relevant today.
  2. The geopolitical situation is changing rapidly, which affects how countries interact regarding energy resources.
  3. Looking ahead, it's important to understand the current gas crisis to anticipate future developments in energy supply and security.

What I read this week...

chamathreads • 1022 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🕹 Technology AI Energy Climate
  1. The article discusses various topics like fertility rates, drug prices, and the presidential diet.
  2. There's a mention of Microsoft betting on fusion power, Andreessen Horowitz and the changing tech landscape, and the financial status of tech workers.
  3. Updates on AI predicting pancreatic cancer, America's high drug prices, corporate acquisitions of primary care practices, and more.

3.4.5 Faraday’s Law & Electromagnetic Waves

Fields & Energy • 219 implied HN points • 01 May 24
🔬 Science Physics Electromagnetism Light Energy
  1. Faraday's Law shows that a changing magnetic field can create an electric field. This means electricity and magnetism are like partners that can influence each other.
  2. When electric and magnetic fields change together, they can create electromagnetic waves, which is how light travels. It's like a dance between the two fields that lets energy move through space.
  3. In history, scientists like Faraday and Maxwell noticed that light might be connected to electromagnetism. They found evidence that light behaves like an electromagnetic wave, leading to important discoveries about how we understand light and energy.

Hello!

Kibao • 119 implied HN points • 04 Jun 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Climate Tech Africa Policy
  1. Kibao means 'a lot' in Swahili and also refers to a notice board. The author writes about various topics like energy, climate, tech, and Africa.
  2. The author offers a unique perspective as an African, scientist, policy wonk, feminist, and former stand-up comedian, bringing fresh insights to a range of subjects.
  3. The author welcomes feedback and comments from readers, aiming to engage in discussions and learn from others.

Don’t Be Fooled

Points And Figures • 906 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Energy Abortion
  1. Don't just focus on all-time highs in the stock market, also consider the rate of change and velocity of growth.
  2. Analyze hard statistics objectively to compare economic performance under different presidencies.
  3. Take into account various economic indicators like natural gas and crude oil production when evaluating administration policies.

Ignore that bomb, someone lit a fire-cracker!

The Crucial Years • 1295 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Sustainability Weather Policy Natural Disasters
  1. False information spreads quickly, like rumors about electric vehicle fires, aided by social media and anti-environmental amplifiers.
  2. Compared to fossil fuel vehicles, electric vehicles are significantly less likely to catch on fire.
  3. It's important to consider the larger picture and relative impacts when evaluating new technologies or risks, like the benefits of windmills in reducing fossil fuel use.

Yes, Biden broke a promise. And it's okay.

The Land Desk • 432 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Energy Climate change Environmental Policy
  1. Biden has made some questionable decisions regarding public lands and energy, but he has also protected certain lands from fossil fuel energy development.
  2. Biden did not fulfill his promise to end oil and gas drilling on public lands, but he has taken significant actions to protect certain federal lands and reduce emissions.
  3. Judging politicians solely on promises kept or broken may not be productive; evaluating their policies and actions is more important.

The Emergence of Duck Curves in Europe

GEM Energy Analytics • 319 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Renewables Climate Policy Market Analysis
  1. Solar energy in Europe has grown a lot in recent years. By the end of 2024, solar power capacity will nearly double, helping to meet electricity needs.
  2. Duck curves are becoming more common, showing that solar energy creates cheaper electricity prices in the afternoon. This trend is seen in countries like Greece, Germany, and Spain.
  3. The impact of solar energy isn't just in Europe; places like Australia are seeing similar effects. As solar use increases, it changes the price dynamics in electricity markets.

Chinese Hydropower - Large and Underappreciated

Syncretica • 648 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
💰 Finance Energy Forecasting Economics
  1. China has the largest hydropower sector globally, with a significant impact on power generation worldwide.
  2. Hydropower output is heavily influenced by weather conditions, with recent rainfall improvements expected to boost Chinese hydropower production.
  3. The strong growth in Chinese hydropower output is likely to lead to a decrease in fossil fuel imports and a reduction in thermal power generation.

Got bail?

The Crucial Years • 906 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Protest Energy Climate Renewables Emissions
  1. Protest outside the Department of Energy in early February against permitting new LNG export terminals
  2. Arguments against granting new export licenses include high greenhouse gas emissions and negative impact on local communities
  3. Participate in peaceful civil disobedience or support rallies, with options for training sessions and online nonviolence training

What if We Just Stop Oil?

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1737 implied HN points • 06 Jul 23
🔬 Science Energy Environment Activism Policy Climate
  1. The world still needs new sources of oil supply to meet demand, even with efforts to phase out oil consumption by 2050.
  2. Natural gas is expected to play a central role in future global energy consumption, with significant investment needed to meet demand.
  3. There are no scenarios suggesting it is possible to eliminate fossil fuel use within the next 8 years, leading to a global energy crisis if oil and gas were abruptly stopped.

Different Kinds of Winning

The Crucial Years • 966 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Fossil fuels Adaptation Finance Policy
  1. There is a potential victory on pausing LNG exports, which could impact Biden's campaign and the planet positively.
  2. Campaigners and new data have highlighted the detrimental impact of LNG exports on the climate and American consumers.
  3. The administration's decision on LNG exports can be a crucial win for climate action and Biden's re-election efforts.

🤖⚡ Does AI use too much energy? A Quick Q&A with … policy analyst James Broughel

Faster, Please! • 822 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🕹 Technology AI Energy Policy Renewables Tech industry
  1. Critics think AI consumes a significant amount of energy, comparable to whole countries.
  2. There's a risk of AI's energy consumption becoming a political issue, akin to past debates around cryptocurrency.
  3. Leading tech companies are working to use renewable energy sources to power AI, reducing potential worries about its energy usage.

Updates on Spain (as of April 2024)

GEM Energy Analytics • 179 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Renewables Market Trends Solar energy
  1. Spain is currently experiencing negative prices in the energy market, meaning they pay less than zero for electricity. This is a first for the country and has happened multiple times in April 2024.
  2. There is a record amount of energy stored in Spanish hydro reservoirs, which is leading to very low electricity prices. These reservoirs have more energy than has been seen in the past ten years.
  3. The capture rates for solar energy are extremely low, with some months showing just 20%. This indicates that solar power is not being used efficiently, especially when prices are so low.

Bulls and bears: a nuclear update

Everything is Light • 373 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Energy Nuclear Renewables Trade Policy
  1. Energy security is a global concern and nuclear energy is crucial for societal progress.
  2. Many countries are investing in expanding nuclear energy generation, with significant projects underway in Asia, Europe, and North America.
  3. Despite past reservations, some nations like Japan and Italy are reconsidering nuclear power, while others like Denmark and Singapore are exploring options.