News & Articles on Renewable Energy

My specialty is wind energy, but I have worked with all forms of renewable energy. Over the years I’ve written about a number of renewable technologies, including solar and geothermal energy. In recent years I’ve focused on comprehensive renewable energy policies that develop a mix of renewable resources. I’ve also written about our use of fossil fuels and nuclear power.

Solar pv in bioenergiedorf juende, lower saxony, germany.

IEA: Renewables Will Be World’s Top Power Source “by 2026”

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External Source

Renewable energy will overtake coal to become the world’s top source of electricity “by 2026 at the latest”, according to new forecasts from the International Energy Agency (IEA). The rise of renewables is being driven by extremely rapid growth in wind and solar output, which topped 4,000 terawatt hours (TWh) in 2024 and will pass 6,000TWh by 2026. Wind and solar are increasingly under attack from populist politicians on the right, such as US president Donald Trump and Reform in the UK. Nevertheless, they will together meet more than 90% of the increase in global electricity demand out to 2026, the IEA says, while modest growth for hydro power will add to renewables’ rise.

Solar pv in bioenergiedorf juende, lower saxony, germany.

Solar is EU’s biggest power source for the first time ever

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External Source

Solar became the EU’s largest source of electricity for the first time in June 2025. National records for solar and wind rolled in across EU countries in May and June, pushing coal to an all-time low.

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California’s grid gets a record power assist from a 100k home battery fleet

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External Source

Brattle’s analysis found that the battery output made a visible dent in statewide grid load, when the power is needed most. “Performance was consistent across the event, without major fluctuations or any attrition,” said Ryan Hledik, a principal at The Brattle Group. He called it “dependable, planning-grade performance at scale.”

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Europe’s $750 Billion Energy Pledge To Trump Is Pure Political Theater

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Michael Barnard

For President Trump, the deal represented a dramatic political win, as it allowed him to claim a significant diplomatic and economic success before his self-imposed deadline. Yet, upon closer examination, the celebrated energy pledge raises substantial doubts. Analysts widely question its feasibility, suggesting that Europe’s commitments are essentially political theater designed primarily to manage President Trump’s volatile negotiating tactics, rather than realistic economic strategy.

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Trump’s Iran Bombing Will Accelerate Global Electrification & Biofuels

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Michael Barnard

In essence, Trump’s bombing of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure has crystallized a fundamental reality: energy systems dependent on oil are inherently vulnerable unless a country is a petrostate. That’s true for all but one of these major economic blocs, the United States, with China leading globally in the rush to become an electrostate. Countries recognizing this vulnerability are already moving swiftly to reduce their exposure. This acceleration in electrification and renewable energy investment is not merely about responding to climate change, it is about ensuring national security, economic stability, and resilience against future geopolitical upheavals.

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Transforming Canada: Mapping A 100% Electrified Energy Economy

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Michael Barnard

The path to Canada’s electrified future is clear and achievable. It offers a chance not only to radically reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also to build a stronger, more resilient economy, foster innovation, and secure sustainable energy independence. Leveraging insights gained from Ireland’s process, Canada can confidently embark on its energy transition journey, transforming its abundant renewable resources into lasting prosperity and environmental stewardship for generations to come.