Эпизоды
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James goes on a well-deserved rant about his local government doubling the road tax on electric vehicles. Despite rarely using highways, his Nissan LEAF EV is now subject to a tax that funds road repairs outside the city and it's six times what a similar gas vehicle would pay. It’s a move that highlights how some governments continue to punish EV owners instead of encouraging clean transportation.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!Meanwhile, California has unveiled an ambitious plan to deploy six million heat pumps by 2030. However, despite incentives, the state is projected to fall two million units short of its goal. We discuss what’s being done to promote heat pump adoption and how the initiative could serve as a model for the rest of the U.S.
In a major shake-up for the automotive industry, Chinese battery and car manufacturer BYD has delivered what could be the final blow to the internal combustion engine. With their latest breakthrough in ultra-fast EV charging, vehicles can now recharge in just five minutes—matching the convenience of refueling a gas car. If this innovation takes hold, it could rapidly accelerate EV adoption worldwide.
Also on the show:
London is set to install 570 sidewalk-flush EV chargers, making it easier than ever for city dwellers to charge their vehicles.
The Ultra Low Emissions Zone in London continues to be a success, reducing air pollution significantly and improving public health.
Listener Mail: A real-life experience with Hyundai’s ICCU recall, and a discussion on the future of electric air taxis ahead of the L.A. Olympics.
The Lightning Round: Global BEV sales surge, solid-state battery advancements, and U.S. states wrestling with Chinese automaker investments.
Links & References:
California’s Heat Pump Initiative
London’s Flush EV Chargers
Ultra Low Emissions Zone Impact
BYD’s Five-Minute Charging Announcement
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Alberta has long believed its oil would sell forever, but U.S. refineries are signaling they could drop Alberta crude in a heartbeat. Looks like “forever” lasts about as long as a duck on a tailings pond.
Meanwhile, Korea’s $800 billion pension fund is ditching coal, an 8-year-old activist has forced India’s Supreme Court into action, and Brazil wants to reverse deforestation with reforestation.
Main Stories🔹 Korea’s Pension Fund Ditches Coal – One of the world’s largest pension funds is divesting.
🔹 Trump’s Tariffs Hammer Canadian Oil – Marathon Petroleum plans to drop Alberta crude due to 10% tariffs. Read more.
🔹 8-Year-Old Activist vs. India’s Supreme Court – The court demands ministries collaborate on climate action after this case.
🔹 Brazil’s COP30 Reforestation Push – Brazil seeks funding for tree-planting as a climate fix.
Lightning Round!⚡ Erin Brockovich calls for battery storage oversight (Read)
Support & Follow Us
⚡ Fossil fuel lawyer joins U.S. EPA leadership (Read)
⚡ Ontario adds 25% tariff on U.S. electricity
⚡ Montana’s power is 90.4% renewable & cheap
⚡ China aims to cut energy use per GDP unit by 3% in 2025
⚡ Texas power grid sets wind, solar & storage records (Read)📧 Email: [email protected]
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The develping country of Pakistan has a terrible power grid but that's why it is experiencing a massive shift to solar, from the ground, up! With a payback period of just 1.5 years, solar is becoming a necessity for many Pakistanis.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!
Also this week:
Mapping industrial heat pump opportunities
BYD and forced labor allegations
Massachusetts launches V2X pilot program – While a great step toward energy resilience, we discuss why it’s time to move beyond pilot programs and into real-world deployment.
Eagle Cam - Watch live here.
Main Stories:
Pakistan’s grassroots solar revolution: We examine how businesses and everyday citizens are adapting to an unreliable grid by embracing small-scale solar installations. Even rickshaws and motorcycles are going electric!
Listen to the Volts podcast featuring experts Mustafa Amjad and Waqas Moosa discussing Pakistan’s transition.
Industrial heat pumps in the US: Canary Media has mapped out the best areas to replace industrial boilers with heat pumps to reduce ozone pollution.
BYD’s Brazil controversy: The Guardian and Reuters have reported on forced labor allegations at a BYD factory construction site in Brazil. Workers were found living in degrading conditions, and labor laws were violated in both Brazil and China.
Massachusetts' V2X Pilot: Electrek reports on Massachusetts launching a two-year vehicle-to-everything (V2X) pilot program to explore energy-sharing possibilities between EVs and the grid.
The Lightning Round:
Companies shift to ‘greenhushing’ Bloomberg
Japan’s worst wildfire in 50 years
Norway’s zero-emission transport zones – The country allows cities to ban fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Bloomberg
China’s nuclear fusion timeline – Bloomberg
A racist oil change sticker leads to a free EV – After an appalling incident in Wisconsin, a Nissan dealership in New York is giving a free Leaf EV to the victim. Electrek
Email us at [email protected] or find us on Patreon!
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In this episode of The Clean Energy Show, James and Brian explore a groundbreaking startup backed by OpenAI's Sam Altman that's turning sunlight into heat stored in bricks. These modular containers can be deployed anywhere, potentially revolutionizing data center power supply. They also discuss how heat pumps continue to outsell gas furnaces in the U.S., signaling a major shift in home heating technology. Meanwhile, Japan's largest nuclear reactor remains inactive, stalled by local political resistance even as public opinion on nuclear power shifts.
Support the Show:
Follow us for free or join our Patreon community at https://www.patreon.com/c/cleanenergypod. Donate via PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VMDCRPHLNR8YE.\ CONTEST ALERT! If you have a free or Supporter Patreon account and follow our podcast by March 3, 2025, you will automatically be entered to win a free 1 Year Clean Club Membership!The episode also features a humorous story from the Czech Republic, where industrious beavers thwarted plans for a new dam by building their own—completely free of charge. James and Brian explore the implications of these stories for clean energy adoption and environmental conservation.
Brian revisits a classic SNL clip featuring Mike Myers in a climate change-themed Christmas special, while James shares his thoughts on a YouTube video documenting a train journey from Shanghai to Beijing. He humorously contemplates the highs and lows of communist amenities, including squat toilets.
The hosts dive into the cold hard facts about wind turbines and whether they can function effectively at temperatures below -30°C. They also touch on the challenges of grid stability and energy demands during extreme weather conditions.
In The Lightning Round, they cover a range of fast-paced stories including:
Ram's electric truck with a unique battery reserved just for towing. India doubling its rooftop solar subsidies to $2.31 billion. Indonesia’s delayed coal peak timeline and its implications for climate goals. California’s push towards 100% renewable energy with massive wind energy imports from New Mexico. China’s clean energy boom, now accounting for 10% of its GDP. Texas gearing up for its windy season, which could significantly boost wind power output. A surge in U.S. battery manufacturing, doubling cell production capacity this year. Solar and battery combinations becoming cheaper than coal and natural gas in key markets. California’s ambitious offshore wind plans moving forward despite political challenges.This week’s CES FAST FACT™ reveals how Japan’s largest floating solar plant was redesigned after a typhoon-related fire, highlighting the importance of engineering clean energy projects to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Don't miss this jam-packed episode of The Clean Energy Show!
Contact Us:
We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail at speakpipe.com/cleanenergyshow.See you in one week!
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Palm oil is one of the biggest environmental villains, but now a Dutch biotech company has scaled up a breakthrough yeast-based alternative that could drastically cut emissions and deforestation. Meanwhile, New York City is tackling unsafe e-bike batteries by handing out free replacement e-bikes to delivery workers. Plus, France is going all-in on nuclear power to support the AI boom.
Undecided with Matt Ferrell - the popular YouTuber comes to Brian and James's backyard to explore the construction of a wind farm. Great video here.
https://youtu.be/rKPYy8RF1RU?si=p8HFcVONNNYHMCksJoin The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!
Also on this episode:
China’s heavy trucks are electrifying at a record pace.
Russia’s war is increasing global aviation emissions.
New research shows carbon capture may be worse than simply investing in renewables.
Rivian’s electric delivery van, once exclusive to Amazon, is now available for purchase by any fleet.
Listener MailWeldon in Winnipeg shares a funny experience about driving an EV in -30°C, proving that gas cars aren’t just bad for the environment but also for visibility!
The Lightning RoundBYD’s solid-state battery breakthrough could double EV range.
A new Airbus A321XLR jet cuts fuel use by 30% per passenger.
Data center electricity demand is skyrocketing worldwide.
EV interest is surging, but cost misconceptions remain high.
The cost of installing a Tesla Supercharger stall? About $40,000.
Home insurance costs in Alberta have soared 90% in a decade due to extreme weather events.
China’s heavy-duty truck market is rapidly shifting to electric, hitting 21% market share this year.
Contest: Win a Free Clean Club Membership!We’re giving away a one-year membership to our Clean Club, which includes:
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Support the show by rating us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app. Don’t forget to follow for weekly episodes!
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Our special fifth-anniversary episode! This week, we take a trip down memory lane to reflect on five years of clean energy news, predictions, and surprises. James takes us through just how much progress has been made in clean energy since we started the podcast five years ago. The growth is staggering, even compared to the most optimistic 2020 predictions!
The Baltic states have officially disconnected from the Russian power grid and joined the EU grid. Workers literally cut the cord and took pieces home as souvenirs, along with safety, security, and peace of mind.
Celebrating Five Years
Our first show aired on February 12, 2020, in Brian’s bomb shelter studio, where we recorded the first five episodes.How Predictions Held Up
A 2020 climate report estimated 2.5 million EVs on the road by 2030. We’re at 85 million today, with four years to go.
Back in 2020, some clean energy forecasts missed the mark—by a lot:EV Boom in Five Years
In 2020, 2.9% of new car sales in Canada were EVs—by the end of 2024, it was 13.2%. There were only 4 million EVs in the world when we started. Now, 4 million EVs are sold every two months.China’s Rapid Growth
In 2020, China exported 1 million cars. By 2024, that number skyrocketed to 6.4 million. When we started the podcast, there were 8 million EVs worldwide. Now, China alone produces 238,000 plug-in vehicles every day!Join the Clean Club at https://www.patreon.com/c/cleanenergypod for exclusive content, ad-free episodes, and more!
The Lightning Round
Ozempic is reportedly messing with climate predictions by reducing food consumption. Less food, less pollution! Over $2 trillion was invested in the global energy transition in 2024—a record-breaking amount. The U.K. would need a forest twice the size of London to offset its airport expansion emissions. Oxford University, at 699 years old, is replacing gas heating with heat pumps to cut carbon emissions. The Baltic states successfully cut ties to the Russian power grid and are now fully synchronized with the EU grid.Thank you for five years of listening! Here’s to the next five!
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Canada’s unprecedented existential crisis caused by bizarre actions from the White House. It could be worse—we could be Greenland. Meanwhile, the long-awaited geothermal power plant near us is finally set to come online next year, initially providing 5MW of power—just enough to keep James’ heated socks toasty.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!
Out of Spec YouTube channelWe also take a deep dive into an EV YouTuber’s trip to China and uncover just how far behind we are in EV technology. Spoiler: it’s bad, but still not as bad as Greenland. Plus, while Indian Railways celebrates 100 years of electrification, some North American officials are still convinced electric trains don’t exist.
Also on the show this week:
Turning fiber optics into smart sensors.
James rigs up his old electric car to defrost his windows.
And much more!
Canada’s Existential CrisisThe latest U.S. policies have thrown Canada into turmoil, with jobs disappearing and small businesses shutting down. The idea of Canada becoming the 51st state is floating around, but what would that mean? With an additional 343 seats in the U.S. House and 2 in the Senate, plus 345 electoral votes, Canada would fundamentally alter the political landscape—potentially preventing another Republican presidency. But would Americans ever accept us?
Geothermal Power Finally Coming OnlineThe long-awaited geothermal power plant near us will start producing electricity next year. Initially generating 5MW, this marks a significant step in clean energy for the region. Read more: Deep Earth Energy and SLB Canada partnership.
EV Tech in China is Light-Years AheadKyle Connor from Out of Spec recently tested EVs in China, where battery swapping is a common practice due to the lack of home charging in massive apartment complexes.
Turning Fiber Optics into Smart SensorsResearchers are developing technology that repurposes fiber optic cables to monitor and optimize the electrical grid. Read more: Electrek article.
Listener Mail The Lightning Round!China’s EV charging points surged by 49% to 12.8 million in 2024.
The UK now has 8GWh of operational battery energy storage, with nearly 20GWh under construction.
60 million AAA members in the U.S. and Canada can now get preferred pricing at ChargePoint stations.
Tesla’s sales are plummeting in California while the broader EV market continues to grow.
PV-powered EVs can extend their range by up to 30%, with real-world tests showing an additional 530 km of range.
Enhanced geothermal is expected to reach a levelized cost of $80/MWh by 2027, eliminating the need for coal and nuclear as baseload power sources.
Support the ShowIf you enjoy The Clean Energy Show, consider supporting us on Patreon for exclusive content and ad-free episodes. Join our Clean Club community today: Patreon link.
That’s our show for this week! Email us at [email protected], follow us on social media @CleanEnergyPod, and don’t forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast app. See you next week!
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The United Arab Emirates is building the world’s largest solar farm with battery storage, capable of providing 1 GW of consistent baseload power, just like a nuclear reactor. We also explore why some trees survive wildfires while entire neighborhoods are reduced to ash, and why Washington State’s e-bike subsidy program is turning heads with its innovative lottery system.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exclusive perks!
Get a monthly bonus podcast, early access to our content, behind the scenes content, access to our members-only Discord community and thank-yous in the credits of videos and shoutouts on our podcast! Starting at just a couple dollars per month!Plus, we reflect on five years of podcasting and take a deep dive into the state of electric vehicle adoption worldwide. Norway is set to hit its 100% zero-emission vehicle goal this year, while the U.S. and Canada struggle to keep pace. We’ll also discuss how EV price parity is reshaping the global auto industry and why fast charger costs are finally coming down.
Highlights from this week’s episode:
Renaming the Gulf of Mexico: A humorous take on geopolitics as James suggests Canada reclaim the Gulf as “The Gulf of Southern Canada.” UAE’s Solar Mega-Project: How the largest solar-plus-storage project compares to traditional baseload power sources. Wildfire Survivors: Why some trees remain standing amid devastation and how homes can be better protected from fire risks. Washington State’s E-Bike Lottery: A unique approach to e-bike subsidies that could make cleaner transportation more accessible. EV Adoption Trends: Norway leads the pack with near-total EV adoption, while China outpaces North America in price competitiveness and sales growth. Listener Feedback: A shoutout to Ian, who reconsidered a winter EV road trip, and Ronnie, who shares insights on nuclear energy from a viral TikTok.The Lightning Round:
Volkswagen may partner with a Chinese EV manufacturer in Germany. Extreme heat in Europe is predicted to cause more deaths despite milder winters up north. France hit 95% carbon-free electricity production in 2024, driven by nuclear power. Solar energy overtakes coal for the first time in the EU.Fast Facts:
Texas solar power increased by 64% in one year. China’s renewable energy investments dwarfed its nuclear developments in 2024.Book Nook:
James revisits Ducks by Kate Beaton, a poignant memoir about working in Alberta’s oil sands.Connect With Us:
Email: [email protected] Voicemail: speakpipe.com/cleanenergyshow TikTok: @cleanenergypod Donate via PayPal: Support the show here -
Podcast Show Notes for Episode 246 of The Clean Energy Show
In this week's episode of The Clean Energy Show, we explore the intersection of climate, technology, and resilience in the face of a changing world. Highlights include:
Trump’s Second Term and Climate Policy: The U.S. pulls out of the Paris Agreement again. What does this mean for global climate efforts? Electric Construction Tools in Oslo: Discover how Norway is leading the charge in cleaner, quieter construction sites, where even the loudest sounds come from an art museum. Understanding Wildfires: Why are trees often left standing after wildfires devastate neighborhoods? We discuss the science of fire behavior and building resilience. Sweden’s Underground Heat Battery: Learn about a city storing summer heat for winter use, a fascinating innovation in sustainable energy.Plus, we share listener letters from around the world, including advice for EV road trips in winter, insights on wildfire mitigation, and reactions to the latest energy news. Don't miss our deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of rebuilding after wildfires in California, as well as the science behind humidity and fire risk.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!
Get a monthly bonus podcast, early access to our content, behind the scenes content, access to our members-only Discord community and thank-yous in the credits of videos and shoutouts on our podcast! Starting at just a couple dollars per month!Listener Mail Highlights:
EV travel tips and challenges from Vancouver Island to Regina. Reflections on climate action and accountability from Ireland and Germany. A story of nostalgia for winter driving in a 1969 VW Beetle, contrasted with modern EV struggles.The Lightning Round: Quick takes on the biggest clean energy stories, including:
Oregon’s massive 1.2 GW solar farm. China’s rise as a nuclear powerhouse. Europe’s potential to meet 25% of EV battery metal demand through recycling by 2030.Contact Us:
We’d love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected] or leave us a voicemail at speakpipe.com/cleanenergyshow.Support the show and access exclusive content on our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/c/cleanenergypod.
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▶️ YouTube: The Clean Energy ShowDonate: Help us continue creating great content by donating via PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VMDCRPHLNR8YE.
Catch the latest in clean energy and climate news, right here on The Clean Energy Show!
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The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, focusing on the Pacific Palisades community and the implications for urban areas as climate change intensifies. Actor Martin Short's love for that community and how James feels connected to it. Alongside an in-depth look at John Vaillant’s book Fire Weather, we uncover the growing wildfire threat to cities and practical ways to safeguard homes and lives.
Repost of a re-edited episode. UPDATE: CAL FIRE has marked Martin Short's home as 'undamaged'! This is contrary to the previous report by The Wrap.
CORRECTION on the size of screen to protect attic vents. It should be no bigger than 1/8" opening (we said 1/4" which is an out-dated guideline.)
Episode Highlights:
Los Angeles Wildfires: Examining the catastrophic fires in Pacific Palisades, where a tight-knit, picturesque community was largely destroyed. We discuss the human stories, the risks of living in fire-prone areas, and the role of climate change in escalating wildfire events. Author John Vaillant: Insights from Fire Weather and Vaillant’s analysis of urban wildfires as a dire climate threat, with compelling clips from his talks and audiobook. The Cost of Fire Risk: Why insurers are pulling out of high-risk areas, leaving homeowners scrambling for alternatives like the FAIR Plan. Tokyo’s Disaster Preparedness: A spotlight on Tokyo’s remarkable infrastructure designed to mitigate natural disasters, from flood tunnels to seismic standards for buildings. Home Fire Safety Tips: Learn critical steps to reduce the risk of your home catching fire in a wildfire, including creating defensible spaces, fireproofing materials, and evacuation best practices.Key Links Mentioned:
Fire Weather by John Vaillant: Audiobook available here Induction Cooktop Review on Wirecutter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/copper-charlie-induction-stove-review/ Raw video of Pacific Palisades fire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tt7VVdGcDzEContact Us:
We love hearing from our listeners! Share your thoughts and questions at [email protected].Support Our Work:
Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VMDCRPHLNR8YE Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/cleanenergypod
Help us continue creating climate-positive content:Follow Us:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cleanenergypod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleanenergypod/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/thecleanenergyshow Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-clean-energy-show/id1498854987 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nIGJi8pZ9EmiJTPY4VOr5Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!
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We honor the life and legacy of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away last week at the age of 100. Carter’s visionary actions, from installing solar panels on the White House to helping clean up the first nuclear accident in Canada, laid the groundwork for today’s clean energy movement.
We revisit the energy crises of the 1970s, examining how the OPEC oil embargo and subsequent events reshaped global energy policy and consumer habits. Meanwhile, New York State takes a bold step in the fight against climate change by passing a law to hold fossil fuel companies accountable for the costs of extreme weather.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks! Join at any level to get access to the extended edition of this week's show.
President Joe Biden’s recent ban on oil drilling in nearly all federal waters marks a historic move in the clean energy transition, though its permanence remains uncertain under future administrations.
Other Highlights in This Episode:
The reality of EV performance in super-cold conditions, including insights from Yakutsk, Siberia. Congestion pricing kicks off in Manhattan, with a reported 40% reduction in travel times. The return of compact EVs like the Chevy Bolt and the debut of cutting-edge electric trucks and SUVs in 2025. The fascinating journey of Carter’s original White House solar panels, from their installation in 1979 to their afterlife across the globe.We also dive into the latest clean energy developments in the Lightning Round, including:
Robotaxis rolling out from Uber and Lyft. BYD’s record-breaking growth in EV sales. The IEA’s promising outlook on next-generation geothermal technologies. Germany’s renewables hitting 125% of electricity demand on New Year’s Day.Join us as we kick off the year with exciting stories from the world of clean energy and a tribute to a true pioneer.
Bonus Content for Patreon Supporters:
A deep dive into 2025’s clean energy predictions, challenges, and upcoming EVs. Support us on Patreon to access exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/members.Donate to Support the Show:
Help keep the show running! Donate via PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VMDCRPHLNR8YE.The Lightning Round:
Stick around as we wrap up with quick-fire updates on cutting-edge clean energy news and trends!Copyright 2025 Sneeze Media.
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In this special year-end episode of The Clean Energy Show, we reflect on the remarkable progress in clean energy throughout 2024. From groundbreaking renewable energy initiatives to significant policy changes and technological advancements, this year has been a monumental one for the transition to a sustainable future. Join Brian Stockton and James Whittingham as they delve into the stories that defined the year, sprinkle in a few laughs, and preview what lies ahead in 2025.
Bonus Content for Subscribers:Paid subscribers and Patreon members get exclusive access to the full-length version of this special episode.
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon or YouTube for exciting perks!
Highlights from This Episode: California’s $2,000 Electric Bike Vouchers: A wildly successful program that ran out in minutes. Record Investments in Clean Energy: A staggering $2 trillion in 2024, double the amount spent on fossil fuels.
Learn more Tesla Co-Founder’s Battery Recycling Breakthrough: Redwood Materials achieves 95% efficiency in critical mineral recovery.
Read the full story Britain’s Coal-Free Milestone: The UK becomes the first G7 nation to close all coal plants, with renewables dominating its energy mix. China’s Offshore Solar and Wind Records: A 1GW floating solar PV facility and the world’s first 26MW wind turbine set new benchmarks. Pakistan’s Solar Surge: The country adds 17GW of solar capacity, revolutionizing its energy landscape.
Dive deeper Paris Olympics and Sustainable Transport: A model for urban cycling and reduced car reliance. The Lightning Round: Major Victory in Montana Climate Lawsuit: A landmark ruling upholding youth climate advocates' rights.
Full decision here Poland’s Coal Exit Accelerates: On track to phase out coal entirely by 2032. Hudson Bay’s Christmas Heatwave: Temperatures projected to soar 20°C above historical averages. Innovative Floating Wind Technology: Mingyang Smart Energy's "V"-shaped OceanX turbine goes live.Contact Us
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Copyright 2024.
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Welcome to episode 242 of The Clean Energy Show! This week, we explore a groundbreaking proposal to connect Europe's and North America's power grids using undersea cables, a move that could revolutionize clean energy by balancing solar and wind production across continents. California is launching a new program offering free e-bikes to low-income residents, but there's a catch: applicants must sit through climate change and e-bike safety videos. Meanwhile, OPEC faces a harsh reality check as oil demand peaks much sooner than anticipated, leaving petrostate politicians scrambling. And in New York City, plans for mandatory e-bike license plates spark controversy.
Also in the show: Mercedes gets the green light for Level 3 autonomous driving in Germany, GM pulls the plug on its Cruise robo-taxi business, and BC Hydro opens a powerful new EV charger in British Columbia. All this and more, including the ever-illuminating Lightning Round!
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon or YouTube for exciting perks!
Get a monthly bonus podcast and more!Main Stories
California's Free E-Bike Program: Read more.
Transatlantic Power Grids: Full report.
OPEC’s Oil Demand Reality Check: Read the full analysis.
Other Highlights
Mercedes-Benz's DRIVE PILOT gets approval in Germany for Level 3 autonomous driving, allowing drivers to legally read, work, or watch TV while the car drives itself.
GM halts its Cruise self-driving taxi operations after safety incidents.
BC Hydro opens a new 350 kW EV charger in Oyama, BC, significantly improving EV travel in the region.
Listener Mail
The Lightning Round
US Supreme Court upholds California’s right to set its own vehicle emissions standards.
Global renewable energy installations hit a record 560 GW in 2023, compared to just 7.1 GW of new nuclear.
EV battery life may last 40% longer than previously estimated.
Study finds only 1% of EV owners would switch back to gas-powered cars, with cost savings being the primary reason.
BYD plans to introduce 6C charging technology, enabling 10-80% charging in just 7 minutes.
Contact Us We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], or leave us a voicemail at speakpipe.com/cleanenergyshow.
Support the Show
Join us on Patreon for exclusive content and to be part of the conversation.
Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=VMDCRPHLNR8YE.
We’re also preparing our year-end wrap-up! Let us know what stories from 2024 stood out to you and how you feel about the progress made this year.
Thank you for listening to The Clean Energy Show! See you next week!
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This week, we dive into the latest advancements in clean energy and sustainability! A universal ‘Plug and Charge’ protocol for EVs is set to roll out in 2025, promising a seamless, app-free charging experience for all electric vehicles. In Boston, a groundbreaking program prescribes solar power to low-income patients—an innovative approach to health and energy security. Meanwhile, scientists uncover a surprising factor contributing to global warming: the Earth is dimming, with reduced cloud cover playing a significant role.
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We also welcome back a beloved guest with a special EV announcement and discuss listener mail on passive solar building codes, spinning homes, and solar history. All that and much more, including quick updates on Hyundai’s fast-charging push in India and the Pope’s new electric ride!
Join The Clean Energy Show's CLEAN CLUB on Patreon for exciting perks!
Highlights in This Episode: EV Charging Revolution: Learn how the upcoming universal 'Plug and Charge' protocol will streamline charging for all EV drivers. Source. Solar Power Prescriptions: Boston doctors prescribe solar energy to improve health and prevent utility cutoffs for vulnerable patients. Source. The Earth’s Dimming: Reduced cloud cover is accelerating global warming, adding a new layer of urgency to climate action. Listener Mail: Insights into passive solar design and how cities like Davis, CA, led the way in sustainable building practices. Pope’s New EV: Mercedes-Benz unveils an all-electric popemobile, showcasing the intersection of sustainability and tradition. Source. The Lightning Round Seaweed for Cattle: Feeding seaweed to cows cuts methane emissions by 40%. Kenya’s Renewable Transformation: From 60% fossil fuels in 2000 to just 6% today. Egypt’s Renewable Ambitions: 18.6 GW of new wind and solar by 2030. Battery Price Drop: Lithium-ion battery packs see the steepest price decline since 2017. Here's a gift link to the Bloomberg article. Heat-Related Deaths Contact UsWe love hearing from you! Share your thoughts and questions:
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Scientists in the Rockies are developing technology to detect attempts to dim the sun—a safeguard against rogue geoengineering experiments. A proposal for a 2,500-mile subsea power cable aims to deliver renewable energy from North Africa to Britain. Could it revolutionize energy trade or is it an oversized project? The most-watched primetime show in the U.S. is now powered by batteries, drastically cutting fossil fuel use. Could the NFL’s transition inspire other industries?
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Get a monthly bonus podcast, early access to our content, behind the scenes content, access to our members-only Discord community and thank-yous in the credits of videos and shoutouts on our podcast! Starting at just a couple dollars per month!Also this week:
Finland’s Nuclear Waste Solution: Finland leads the way with the world’s first permanent geological repository for spent nuclear fuel. Is this the future of nuclear waste management? Ukraine’s Resilient Renewable Energy: Despite attacks on its grid, Ukraine’s decentralized clean energy projects are proving harder for Russia to destroy and quicker to repair than fossil fuel systems. UK’s ICE Ban in 2030: The UK confirms it will stick to its 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, with strong penalties for automakers that fail to comply. Updates on heat pump performance in extreme cold, a look at Norway’s sky-high car taxes, and Brian's adventures with a cold. Listener mail: Practical tips for EV owners and insights from parades powered by the F-150 Lightning. A Lightning Round featuring everything from BYD's vertical integration to agrivoltaics boosting grape yields and Mexico's net-zero commitment by 2050. Links from the Show Sunday Night Football Power Backup Morocco-UK Subsea Cable Proposal Finland’s Nuclear Waste Repository Ukraine’s Renewable Energy Strategy UN Conference on Plastic Pollution The Lightning Round Highlights China’s CO2 Decline: A 1% drop in Q2 2024 marks the first quarterly decrease since COVID-19. BYD’s Sodium-Ion Batteries: A promising grid-scale alternative to lithium-ion. Heat Pump Policies in Europe: 24 nations now support industrial-scale rollouts. Plastic Pollution Treaty Stalemate: Talks to curb production hit a wall, with future discussions planned.Catch us next week for more clean energy news and listener mail! Want to support the show? Join our Patreon for bonus content and early access to episodes. Don’t forget to subscribe and review us on your favorite podcast app!
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The latest developments from COP29, the annual climate summit, where world leaders committed $300 billion per year to help developing nations combat climate change—though many argue this figure falls short of the required funding. Meanwhile, as Australia faces a blistering heatwave, maintenance on coal plants exacerbates the energy crisis, adding fuel to the debate over fossil fuel dependence.
We also cover the groundbreaking approval of Hermes 2, the first Gen IV nuclear reactor in the U.S., which features a unique molten salt cooling system designed for efficiency and safety. Plus, Ann Arbor, Michigan, takes a bold step forward as residents approve a local clean energy utility, furthering the city’s commitment to sustainable energy.
Finally, California makes headlines with a plan to counteract potential federal EV policy changes under the incoming Trump administration, promising state incentives to EV buyers if federal credits are repealed.
COP29 Climate Finance and Fossil Fuel Stalemate
Australia’s Heatwave and Energy Crisis
Nuclear Innovation in TennesseeAnn Arbor’s Local Clean Energy Utility
California’s EV Incentive Backup Plan
The Lightning Round:
San Jose’s Electrified Train: Caltrain switches from diesel to electric on its San Francisco to San Jose route, marking a major shift toward greener transit.
Data-Powered Heat in San Jose: A unique project will use excess heat from data centers to warm six new apartment buildings in San Jose, demonstrating a creative way to reduce emissions.
Maine’s New Renewable Targets: Maine accelerates its renewable energy goals, aiming for 80% clean energy by 2030 and 100% by 2040.
BYD’s Advanced LFP Batteries: China’s BYD announces its next-generation EV battery, designed to offer longer range and greater safety.
California's Potential New EV Rebates: Newsom proposes state-level EV rebates as a countermeasure if federal incentives are reduced under the Trump administration.
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California is embracing wave power technology to generate electricity from ocean waves, which will help power thousands of homes. A new study challenges the long-standing belief that rooftop solar is a burden on California's customers, showing that it actually benefits the state. This update offers hope for the future of solar power in California. Read more from Canary Media.
China's Open Sea Solar Farm: China has just powered up the world’s largest open-sea solar farm, which also incorporates fish farming. This innovative project showcases the potential of combining solar energy with marine aquaculture to boost renewable energy production. More on this from Electrek.
COP29 Climate Talks: As COP29 unfolds, key figures are calling for a complete redesign of the conference. One major suggestion: reducing the influence of fossil fuel lobbyists, who currently outnumber climate negotiators. The conference is in its final week, and tensions are rising over the role of developing countries in achieving decarbonization goals.
More details on COP29 from Electrek.
The Lightning Round:
Air Pollution in India: India is currently experiencing extreme air pollution, with levels up to 130 times above the recommended safety threshold. Flights and trains have been canceled due to the severity of the pollution.
Bomb Cyclone: A bomb cyclone is forming off the coast of the Pacific Northwest, with winds strong enough to rival a hurricane. This rare weather event is a stark reminder of the power of climate extremes.
Contact Us
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Support The Clean Energy Show
Join the Clean Club on our Patreon or with YouTube Memberships to receive perks for supporting the podcast and our planet!
PayPal Donate offers one-time or regular donations.
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Solar panels are built to last, often functioning for decades beyond their warranty. When they’re replaced, many are finding a second life in energy-poor regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where access to electricity can transform communities. Programs like Solar Sister help distribute these panels to power mobile phone chargers, e-bikes, and even entire villages. For example, an original Bell Labs PV cell from 1954 is still producing power 70 years later.
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This holiday season, Australia will pioneer V2G technology that allows electric vehicles to feed electricity back to the grid, helping balance supply and demand. Learn more about this development in Electrek’s report.
Could a single solar panel lift someone out of energy poverty?
In a surprising move, Exxon’s CEO has urged the U.S. to remain in the Paris Climate Agreement. This unexpected stance from an oil giant hints at complex motivations. Check out the details in Bloomberg’s report.
Listener Mail:
Alex: A listener and sustainability expert, Alex, wrote in to share insights on the longevity and recycling of solar panels, noting that panels can often be used beyond their initial lifespan for energy-poor regions. Nate from Oregon Seaweed: Nate, the chief scientist at Oregon Seaweed, left us a voicemail discussing the potential of kelp as a sustainable energy source. Bob: Listener Bob sent us an article on Canada’s proposed emissions cap on oil and gas companies. Learn more in this piece from the National Observer. Larry from Saskatchewan Renewable Energy Coalition: Larry invited us to discuss the Saskatchewan Renewable Energy Coalition, a group promoting renewable energy education in Saskatchewan.Join James at the Saskatoon Fantastic Film Festival Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 11 AM for a panel discussion on the films of Lowell Dean.
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[email protected] or leave us an online voicemail: http://speakpipe.com/clean
PayPal Donate offers one-time or regular donations.
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Sheep grazing under solar panels in Australia are producing higher-quality wool! Could agrivoltaics be the future of sustainable farming? Scientists predict that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) could collapse in just 15 years, threatening severe weather disruptions. Learn what this could mean for global climate.
Solar Panel Recycling Advances
A new plant in Georgia will soon recycle up to 99% of solar panel materials, taking a big step toward reducing solar waste. More details here: ElectrekListener Mailbag
Damon from Tasmania asks about carbon capture's effectiveness. Michael on Patreon shares insights into biochar and praises our climate activism.Automotive Updates
Toyota's Decline: With EV demand rising, Toyota’s production drops for the first time in four years. Electrek Ford’s F-150 Lightning Halt: Production of the Lightning will be paused for two months. ElectrekLightning Round
Honda’s Electric SUV Success: Honda's Prologue EV is outpacing the Chevy Blazer in sales, signaling strong consumer interest. Saudi Arabia’s Battery Push: The kingdom launches a tender for 8 GWh of battery storage, one of the largest in the world. Remote Work Reduces Emissions: A report finds Ottawa public servants working remotely produce 25% fewer emissions than office workers. The Energy MixContact Us
[email protected] or leave us an online voicemail: http://speakpipe.com/clean
Support The Clean Energy Show
Join the Clean Club on our Patreon or with YouTube Memberships to receive perks for supporting the podcast and our planet!
PayPal Donate offers one-time or regular donations.
Store
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Copyright 2024.
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Louisville has launched America's first 100% electric garbage truck fleet. These trucks are perfectly suited for waste collection with heavy loads, stop-and-go conditions, and low speeds.
James shares insights from The Saskatchewan Survivor's Guide podcast, featuring former center-left Canadian politician Cathy Sproule. Why climate policies often don’t get political attention, even among left-leaning parties. Revised episode!Listen to the Episode
Biochar: The Carbon-Saving Solution
Read the Minnesota Public Radio Article More from the U.S. National Forest Service
Biochar, a product of burning forest materials at low temperatures, could help sequester carbon when applied to soil, rather than releasing it. This technology offers promising results in fire management and agriculture.Hurricane Relief with Solar Microgrids
Following Hurricane Helene, the Footprint Project has provided North Carolina with solar-powered microgrids to replace polluting diesel generators. This initiative powers essentials, from food trucks to water filtration, sustainably.
Canary Media ArticleElectric Hydrofoil Ferries in Sweden
Listener Mail Claude from Lethbridge, Alberta:
Sweden has launched the world’s first-ever electric hydrofoil ferry service, a cutting-edge leap towards emission-free maritime transport.
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Comments on UCP attack ads in the podcast’s pre-roll ads. Thanks for sharing, Claude! Derek:
Asks about biochar and its applications for carbon reduction. Lightning Round Highlights Electricity-powered garbage trucks launch in Louisville, CO. Bloomberg BNEF analysts find electrification outpacing hydrogen in decarbonizing sectors.
Hydrogen Insight Article Sri Lanka installing solar on religious sites with support from the Indian government.
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