> Wave energy has been untapped so far, but an experiment could unlock its potential in the United States.

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> The energy transition sweeping across the U.S. offers an unprecedented opportunity to transform Minnesota’s economy and workforce for the better. > > As Minnesota works to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 as well as a carbon-neutral economy by 2050, we are addressing the risks and impacts that climate change is having on our citizens, businesses, and infrastructure while also building a solid foundation for good-paying, high-quality jobs that will sustain our local communities for generations to come. > > Minnesota’s clean energy sector is already leading the way, and this year’s 2024 Clean Jobs Midwest report further underscores the tremendous growth potential that lies ahead. > > Today, 62,102 Minnesotans work in a clean energy job — a new state record. > > Thanks to landmark legislation like the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act — along with the state’s 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 law providing policy certainty — Minnesota’s clean energy jobs are growing nearly five times faster than jobs in the overall economy. This growth creates opportunities for all Minnesotans; 38% of these jobs are based in greater Minnesota, delivering economic benefits beyond the Twin Cities and into rural communities. Veterans account for 11.2% of the state’s clean energy workforce compared to 4.0% in the broader workforce, showing that clean energy jobs appeal to those who have served our country and are looking for fulfilling careers back home. > > Small businesses, which account for 71% of clean energy jobs in Minnesota, are the backbone of this thriving sector, driving growth and supporting local economies. Clean vehicles represent the fastest-growing subsector, with jobs increasing by 13.2%, while manufacturing has also seen a significant boost, adding over 436 new clean energy jobs in 2023. With clean energy job growth expected to surge another 6% over the next year, Minnesota is poised to expand its leadership in this space while further strengthening and diversifying the state’s economy. > > But to accelerate a just transition to a net-zero economy, we need smart policies that support the businesses, workers and communities driving this transition. > > Policymakers must defend the federal clean energy and clean vehicle investments that are propelling job growth across the state. Developing and funding workforce development programs at both the federal and state levels will ensure Minnesotans have the skills needed to meet the rising demand for these high-quality jobs. > > Additionally, investing in transmission infrastructure and continuing to modernize permitting processes will ensure the state remains open for clean energy businesses and jobs while meeting the growing demand for clean, affordable and reliable energy. > > Finally, Minnesota’s policymakers must continue to advance the state’s clean energy policy leadership that complements and leverages federal initiatives to solidify and grow a thriving clean energy workforce. > > As Minnesota leads the charge to a carbon-free future, stable and predictable policies are critical to helping usher in more good-paying, family-supporting clean energy jobs that are building stronger, more resilient communities in all corners of the state. > > The transformation of our energy system is an opportunity to redefine what’s possible for our workforce, our economy and our future. > > With our highly educated, innovative and skilled workforce, Minnesota is perfectly positioned to continue our record-breaking clean energy jobs success if we choose to seize this moment.

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/22088619

> Summary > > China leads the world in ultra-high-voltage (UHV) power transmission, with 48,000km of UHV lines connecting remote renewable energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydropower, to urban centers. > > UHV lines minimize energy loss over long distances, earning them the nickname “bullet trains for power.” > > Initially designed for coal and hydro, these lines now support China’s renewable energy expansion. > > However, challenges remain, including high costs, dependence on coal for stability, and limited local integration. > > Globally, countries like Brazil and India are adopting UHV, but regulatory and cost barriers hinder broader deployment, especially in the U.S.

cross-posted from: https://feddit.org/post/4695910

> Ante Ivkovic herded sheep in Bosnia-Herzegovina with his father as a child. Years later, without his consent or knowledge, he says, a wind farm was built on his property by a Chinese company. > > The Chinese wind farm company, headquartered in the capital Sarajevo, declined to comment on camera. In an email, they stated they relied on Bosnian documents that confirmed the concession's legality and claimed there were no unresolved ownership issues. > > Ivkovic, with the help of his lawyer, is pursuing legal action to prove his ownership. His lawyer is gathering evidence from archives to build the case. > > [...] > > Chinese wind energy companies have been aggressively expanding into the European market, undercutting European competitors by significant margins, thanks to state subsidies. This is evident not only in Bosnia, but also in neighboring Croatia. > > [...] > > The EU has taken notice. Under Ursula von der Leyen's leadership, the EU is scrutinizing Chinese wind farms, investigating whether state subsidies are giving them an unfair advantage over European competitors. Lobbyists warn that with every new wind farm, China tightens its grip on Europe's energy supply. > > "On a modern wind turbine there are around 300 sensors on the different components of the turbine, which are giving information to the wind farm owner and operator, and to the turbine manufacturer about the performance. And many people in Europe are saying, 'do we want to give that power to entities outside of Europe to control the functioning of wind turbines?'," says Giles Dickson, the CEO of WindEurope. > > [...] > > Will a retiree be able to assert his rights against a 160-million-euro project? This case will help determine how much property rights are worth in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

> The cost of renewables is plummeting, heat pumps are selling like crazy, and red states are raking in cash from the IRA. There's no stopping the inevitable.

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