The hottest Renewable Energy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Climate & Environment Topics
Doomberg β€’ 7407 implied HN points β€’ 10 May 23
  1. The article discusses the rising trend of power outages in the US due to extreme weather and how it affects different socio-economic groups.
  2. It questions the narrative that blames climate change solely for power grid instability, highlighting the role of policy decisions like investing in intermittent energy sources.
  3. The text also critiques the German approach to energy policy, emphasizing the potential consequences of their shift towards renewable energy sources.
Doomberg β€’ 6650 implied HN points β€’ 18 Jun 23
  1. Norway has a successful energy policy with a focus on clean electricity and oil reserve management.
  2. Norway's oil consumption defies expectations despite high renewable energy usage and electric vehicle sales.
  3. The International Energy Agency predicts a peak in global oil demand within six years, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Liberty’s Highlights β€’ 1041 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jan 24
  1. Opportunity cost is often invisible but significant, so consider it in decision-making.
  2. Relative valuation in investing can be misleading, so always dig deeper.
  3. Mixing children of different ages in schools could offer benefits in learning and social development.
Doomberg β€’ 6819 implied HN points β€’ 15 May 23
  1. Tires are complex products involving multiple components like rubber, steel, and nylon, crucial for driving performance and safety.
  2. End-of-life tires present a significant pollution issue due to difficulty in recycling and burning, leading to emissions of pollutants like zinc.
  3. Government policies can redefine sustainability, such as classifying spent tires as 'biomass,' raising concerns about environmental impact and green energy definitions.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 104 implied HN points β€’ 14 Dec 24
  1. Big oil companies like BP, Shell, and Equinor are cutting back on their investments in renewable energy. This means they are spending less money on projects like wind farms.
  2. Shareholders are pressuring these companies because of losses in their renewable energy sectors. They are feeling the impact of high costs and project failures.
  3. This reduction in investment could slow down progress on fighting climate change, making it harder to meet global energy goals. Governments could help by offering incentives for these companies to keep investing in renewables.
The Crucial Years β€’ 2062 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jan 24
  1. The global economy is facing increasing friction due to the impacts of the climate crisis.
  2. The insurance industry is experiencing challenges in modeling risks and providing coverage due to climate change.
  3. Renewable energy capacity is growing rapidly, but there are significant challenges in transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Renewable Revolution β€’ 1618 implied HN points β€’ 13 Oct 23
  1. Technology change isn't straight and slow; it can grow rapidly in an S-curve pattern. This means innovations can spread faster than some people expect.
  2. We should focus on the new technologies coming into play instead of just looking at what we have now. What's happening in the present will give us a better idea of what's to come.
  3. Energy efficiency has a bigger impact than many realize. It's important to pay attention to how we can use less energy rather than just relying on new sources.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1544 implied HN points β€’ 28 Feb 24
  1. The changing climate is causing dramatic and extreme changes around the planet, with record-breaking temperatures and reduced snow coverage indicating the ongoing warming of the Earth.
  2. The diminishing cold air supply in the Arctic is a clear sign of the planet's warming climate, leading to changes in weather patterns and ecological impacts like ice melting and more extreme weather events.
  3. The impact of the climate crisis goes beyond physical consequences, affecting the psychological and emotional connection to the changing seasons and nature, emphasizing the importance of fighting to save the beauty and meaning of the natural world.
GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 459 implied HN points β€’ 08 Apr 24
  1. The cost of solar panels has dropped a lot, making it cheaper to install solar energy systems. This means other costs like labor become more important to consider.
  2. Vertical solar panels can be helpful because they can generate energy at different times of the day. This helps capture more value from solar energy by producing power when it's needed most.
  3. Using vertical solar opens up new possibilities, like installing them as fences or along roads. This can save space and also provide benefits beyond just energy generation.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1913 implied HN points β€’ 05 Jan 24
  1. Some politicians are demonstrating real political courage by taking a stand against expanding fossil fuel production
  2. The UK's decision to open the North Sea to new oil and gas drilling is being challenged by a Conservative MP's resignation
  3. There is growing pressure for countries to halt the expansion of fossil fuel production to combat the climate crisis
The Crucial Years β€’ 1434 implied HN points β€’ 20 Feb 24
  1. Growing climate anxiety is affecting young people who feel let down by political and economic institutions not addressing the climate emergency.
  2. Institutions like banks, car companies, and universities resisting change are contributing to generational theft as today's practices guarantee future upheaval.
  3. The emotional toll of climate change on children and youth, exacerbated by governmental inaction, poses mental health risks and highlights the need for urgent, proactive responses.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1684 implied HN points β€’ 04 Jan 24
  1. Batteries have greatly improved energy density over the last century, making them more practical for cars and other uses.
  2. The rapid progress in battery technology is expected to continue, with increasing energy density, affordability, and innovation.
  3. Efforts are being made to ensure ethical sourcing of materials for batteries, address social inequities, and push for sustainable growth in the battery industry.
Matt Ehret's Insights β€’ 1316 implied HN points β€’ 30 Apr 23
  1. Germany and other European nations are shutting down nuclear energy sectors, citing concerns of sustainability and green energy production.
  2. Low dose radiation has been found to have positive health effects, despite common fears of radioactivity.
  3. Transitioning solely to solar and wind energy may not be as sustainable as expected, as it leads to toxic waste and high energy costs.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1195 implied HN points β€’ 15 Mar 24
  1. States are considering 'climate superfund' laws to hold Big Oil accountable, treating disasters as toxic dumps caused by corporations.
  2. Legislators are working to make Big Oil pay for the climate damage they cause, with Vermont leading the way in potentially adopting such laws.
  3. The transition to renewable energy, along with laws holding fossil fuel industry accountable, is vital to combat climate change and protect communities.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1464 implied HN points β€’ 20 Jan 24
  1. In a polarized society, sometimes fighting in a different, more creative way can be effective.
  2. Using strategic and thoughtful tactics can make a difference in important fights like climate change.
  3. Being considerate of societal impacts and strategic in activism can lead to positive outcomes, even in difficult situations.
aukehoekstra β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 20 Jun 24
  1. Stationary batteries are becoming increasingly affordable, paving the way for a smooth transition to solar and wind energy while enhancing grid resilience.
  2. There's a disconnect between current grid management practices and the shift towards decentralized, renewables-powered grids with the aid of batteries.
  3. The International Energy Agency's predictions for battery growth and usage seem vastly inadequate and fail to align with historical data and future energy needs.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1155 implied HN points β€’ 15 Feb 24
  1. The rich individuals or entities may not fully grasp or prioritize the urgency of the environmental crisis, as shown by certain investment decisions.
  2. Some significant steps towards divesting from fossil fuels have been taken, indicating a gradual shift away from reliance on them.
  3. Financial institutions like banks withdrawing from environmental initiatives could hinder progress towards decarbonization and indicate a shift in priorities.
GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 619 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jan 24
  1. Solar power is growing quickly in Europe and is expected to double by 2027. This means more solar energy will be available to meet demand.
  2. In markets like Germany and Spain, solar energy lowers electricity prices because it has very low costs compared to fossil fuels. This creates a connection between the amount of solar energy produced and the price of electricity.
  3. Solar generation varies by season and day, impacting prices differently. For example, prices can drop significantly on sunny Sundays when demand is low and solar output is high.
GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 219 implied HN points β€’ 13 May 24
  1. Solar energy is growing fast and becoming a main part of our energy systems. This growth is due to lower costs, a global effort to cut emissions, and how easy it is to set up solar technology.
  2. As solar power becomes more popular, we need to be more flexible with how we use and produce energy. This flexibility is important to handle times when there's too much solar energy or not enough.
  3. The rising use of solar power is changing energy prices and increasing the value of flexible energy sources, like batteries and demand response systems, which can help balance supply and demand.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1514 implied HN points β€’ 13 Dec 23
  1. The sentence calling for transitioning away from fossil fuels is a new tool for activists to use in climate discussions
  2. Past significant climate sentences have changed the direction of climate discussions and policies
  3. Activists need to ensure clear, plain language in agreements to effectively push for the end of the fossil fuel era
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 1511 implied HN points β€’ 30 Nov 23
  1. Replacing 150 coal power plants with nuclear power can reduce global emissions by 25% by 2035.
  2. The cost of replacing these plants with nuclear power is significantly lower than other emissions reduction measures.
  3. If the world is to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, retiring or retrofitting coal plants is necessary, and nuclear power provides a feasible alternative.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1395 implied HN points β€’ 03 Dec 23
  1. UN Secretary General emphasizes the need to phase out fossil fuels completely to limit climate change to 1.5 degrees
  2. Using carbon capture to 'abate' emissions from fossil fuels is not effective and just a way for the industry to continue business as usual
  3. The focus of climate negotiations should be on stopping the flow of greenhouse gases by transitioning to renewable energy sources
GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 419 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 24
  1. The combination of wind and solar power works better in different places. For example, Germany benefits more from wind, while southern countries like Greece get more from solar energy because of their climate.
  2. Wind and solar energy do not produce electricity at the same rate all the time. There are many hours when either one is low, so we need good storage solutions like batteries to keep the lights on.
  3. Geographical differences matter a lot in how we can balance renewable energy. Countries with rivers can store energy easily, but places like Germany and France have a hard time sharing power because their wind and solar outputs are similar.
Klement on Investing β€’ 2 implied HN points β€’ 10 Feb 25
  1. Solar farms in New York State have helped increase farmland prices by 18% from 2015 to 2021. This shows that renewable energy can positively affect local economies.
  2. Farmland close to electric substations saw the most price increases. Locations far from the grid didn't benefit as much, making it more challenging for solar developers.
  3. Higher local electricity prices led to even greater appreciation in land values. Proper planning for renewable energy can improve lives and reduce electricity costs.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1454 implied HN points β€’ 18 Oct 23
  1. We have the potential to power our world with renewable energy like solar and wind, which are not only abundant but also provide a cost-effective solution.
  2. The rapid growth of solar and wind power is crucial to reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions globally.
  3. Transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar can have significant environmental benefits, such as reducing carbon dioxide emissions and preserving natural habitats.
The Climate Brink β€’ 412 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jan 24
  1. Expanding LNG infrastructure may reduce emissions short-term by displacing coal, but it locks in higher emissions in the long run.
  2. U.S. consumers now pay global prices for natural gas due to increased LNG exports, exposing them to international price fluctuations.
  3. Exporting LNG compromises U.S. energy security, as global pricing allows foreign powers to influence prices and threaten economic stability.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1773 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jul 23
  1. Conspiracy theories distract from what's happening in plain sight, like Blackrock appointing the CEO of a major oil company to its board.
  2. Financial institutions are backtracking on their commitments to decarbonize portfolios, favoring profits over addressing the climate crisis.
  3. Leaders like Brad Lander are taking a stand against financial ties to the fossil fuel industry, recognizing the need for real accountability and action.
GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 299 implied HN points β€’ 04 Mar 24
  1. Rooftop solar and utility-scale solar are quite different, even though they both use the same technology. Rooftop solar is small and connected to homes, while utility-scale solar is large and functions like a power plant.
  2. Incentives play a big role in how these solar systems behave in the market. Rooftop solar often lacks good incentives to respond to price changes, whereas utility-scale solar can better react to market prices.
  3. Both types of solar can be improved by better support schemes and incentives. It's important not just to generate energy but also to maximize its value in the market, ensuring more efficient and responsive use of solar power.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1375 implied HN points β€’ 25 Sep 23
  1. The fossil fuel industry is pushing to export large amounts of fossil gas to preserve their profits, even though renewable energy sources are cheaper and cleaner.
  2. The rapid expansion of LNG export terminals could cause American greenhouse gas emissions to remain stagnant since 2005, impacting global warming.
  3. It is crucial to stop the continued expansion of LNG build-out to accelerate the transition to clean and renewable energy sources worldwide.
GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 719 implied HN points β€’ 03 Oct 23
  1. Germany often exports electricity during winter and imports more in summer. This pattern is changing due to the retirement of nuclear power and other factors.
  2. The prices for exported electricity are usually low because they happen when there’s lots of renewable energy like wind or solar, which can lead to negative prices.
  3. As renewable energy grows, Germany is importing electricity when prices are high, while exporting when prices are low. This is making it hard to measure the value of electricity trades in traditional ways.
The Crucial Years β€’ 757 implied HN points β€’ 13 Feb 24
  1. The documentary 'Bad River' tells the story of an indigenous community fighting an oil company, highlighting the universal struggle for land rights and environmental protection.
  2. The legal and political battle between the Bad River band and Enbridge over Line 5 demonstrates the importance of building broad coalitions to address both environmental and climate crises.
  3. The documentary emphasizes the need for alliances and friendships to form to create successful movements, showcasing the power of collaboration in environmental activism.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1096 implied HN points β€’ 18 Nov 23
  1. Efforts by TikTokers and influencers are gaining momentum in advocating for environmental causes.
  2. Older individuals are also making a difference by using traditional methods like letter writing campaigns.
  3. Department of Energy should pay attention to both younger and older generations advocating against fossil fuel projects.
The Planet β€’ 353 implied HN points β€’ 30 Jan 24
  1. Scotland's renewable energy sector surpassed 100% of electricity demand, a 26% increase from the previous year
  2. The fossil fuel industry funded early climate science, including the development of the iconic 'Keeling curve'
  3. China installed a record-breaking 216.9 gigawatts of solar capacity in 2023, surpassing any other nation