Solar & Storage Stability: How America Can Maintain Energy Security Through Severe Weather
When extreme weather threatens lives and livelihoods, solar and battery storage are there to deliver energy security for the American people. Extreme weather events, from scorching heat waves to destructive hurricanes to frigid winter storms, are constantly challenging our aging infrastructure. When power lines fall or gas plants freeze, distributed solar and energy storage can be life savers, and over the past several years, these technologies are increasingly stepping up to deliver reliability and safety when it matters most. Heat Waves When the sun is at its hottest and demand peaks, solar power is a crucially important generation source. This June, large swaths of the country were scorched by a severe heat wave that stressed our aging grid. Demand for air conditioning soared, gas plants needed to reduce capacity, and the heat threatened rolling blackouts across the region. Thankfully, solar paired with battery storage stepped up to provide cool relief for American families. In New England, solar panels and a network of batteries supplied several gigawatts of power in key moments, saving households an estimated $20 million. This is no isolated incident. As heat waves have become more frequent and severe in recent years, solar and storage have been working overtime to make sure the AC stays on and people stay safe. Texas has led new solar additions for the last several years, and those investments have shored up resources in response to a heat wave in 2023 and have strengthened the grid in preparation for this summer. During Europe’s record heat wave this June, solar generation set records in 13 countries and was the largest source of electricity for the EU in June. Hurricanes When hurricanes threaten coastal communities, solar and storage provide life-saving energy resilience, powering recovery efforts and connecting families after the storm. After Hurricane Helene ravaged North Carolina, solar + storage’s ability to function separate from traditional grid systems provided a lifeline to communities across the state. Powering flashlights, power tools, and cell phone chargers for communication, solar and storage were critical to relief efforts. Solar microgrids aren’t just a quick fix in the aftermath, either. They’re a resilient choice for communities in storm after storm. Babcock Ranch — a Florida community powered entirely by solar microgrids — has been directly in the path of powerful hurricanes like Ian and has never lost power. Winter Weather Winter storms present special challenges to traditional energy infrastructure. During the February 2021 Texas Freeze, natural gas infrastructure like wellheads, pipelines, and compressor stations froze, cutting off fuel to generators and flipped off more than 52,000 megawatts of power. At least 4.5 million homes and businesses lost power, and more than 200 people lost their lives. Overreliance on a few large power plants made the Texas grid vulnerable. In response, the state has invested more than any other in new utility-scale solar projects since 2021. When severe winter storms hit again in 2024, Texas was prepared with a mixture of energy strategies, and solar + storage were there to lighten the load. Time after time, solar and storage step up when it counts most. That’s why more states are doubling down on solar and storage investments to keep grids running safely, reliably, and affordably. Simply put, solar and storage provide distributed, resilient energy that suffers fewer unexpected outages than traditional power plants, protecting communities and delivering energy security for families when they need it most. Article from Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Sign up for CleanTechnica's Weekly Substack for Zach and Scott's in-depth analyses and high level summaries, sign up for our daily newsletter, and follow us on Google News! Whether you have solar power or not, please complete our latest solar power survey. Have a tip for CleanTechnica? Want to advertise? Want to suggest a guest for our CleanTech Talk podcast? Contact us here. Sign up for our daily newsletter for 15 new cleantech stories a day. Or sign up for our weekly one on top stories of the week if daily is too frequent. Advertisement CleanTechnica uses affiliate links. See our policy here. CleanTechnica's Comment Policy
Harvey County in Kansas enacts lengthy 2.5-year BESS moratorium
Harvey County in Kansas enacts lengthy 2.5-year BESS moratorium - Energy-Storage.News Skip to content
Battery Power Online | OEMs at Advanced Automotive Battery Conference Europe 2025
By Kyle Proffitt July 16, 2025 | At the 15th international Advanced Automotive Battery Conference Europe held in Mainz, Germany, June 23-26, 2025, we heard from several automotive OEMs in keynotes and additional presentations, discussing very high power batteries for hybrids, which newer chemistries they are focused on, and how these chemistries can be integrated into standard form factor battery packs. Porsche: Ultra-High Power Hybrid Batteries Otmar Bitsche, Director of Battery Systems at Porsche AG, delivered the first keynote at the 2025 Advanced Automotive Battery Conference Europe, discussing a new high-power hybrid solution. Porsche did not come to discuss miles per gallon efficiency improvements; the battery pack in this vehicle is there to maximize power and performance. Their recent solution is a t-hybrid powertrain on a 911 that is now part of the production GTS model. This includes a battery pack up front— a 400 V lithium-ion system harboring just 1.9 kWh of energy—which is about the same weight as a normal lead acid battery. Compared to typical all-electric batteries, the specs aren’t initially outstanding— just 71 Wh/kg and 112 Wh/L. But according to Bitsche, “the most impressive data are really the power we can provide by this battery pack.” It provides 29 kW of continuous power and a maximum 50 kW output. To accomplish this, Bitsche says the battery operates at C rates just under 30. For context, production all-electric vehicles might drain the battery at 6C under hard acceleration, but those battery packs are often 30-50 times larger, so they can produce much more power. Getting 50 kW out of a 1.9 kWh battery is a feat. Formula 1 hybrid solutions do push these C rates yet higher, but those are not consumer vehicles with demands the Porsche must meet, such as operating at -25 °C or lasting for years of use. The GTS 911 also has a 3.6 L boxer gasoline engine, a single electric motor on the rear axle, and an electric turbocharger. The turbo offers some unique advantages. Normally, the function of a turbocharger is to use exhaust gas to spin a turbine to drive a compressor and feed compressed air into the engine, thus increasing the oxygen content and the power from each combustion event. An e-turbo can also harvest the energy from the spinning turbine. In addition to traditional braking energy regeneration, “we used the exhaust gas to regen the battery,” Bitsche said. Additionally, the battery can power and spin the turbo directly and provide boost pressure before the gas engine produces sufficient exhaust; then, once the e-turbo is producing electricity from exhaust gas, that energy can go into the electric motor or back to the battery. There is thus a dynamic balance of storing and releasing energy among these components. “This is really a very complex strategy but helps to give overall better performance and also better efficiency for the vehicle,” Bitsche said. Bitsche discussed specifics on the battery pack, which he said “needs extremely fast and reliable power response.” It’s composed of 108 parallel pairs of 21700 cylindrical cells, and those pairs are then connected in series. They’re using NMC-622/graphite, 2.5 Ah, 9 Wh cells. “We designed this cell dedicated for this very high power demand, from the electrode to the cell design, with the continuous tabbing… for this very very high performance application,” Bitsche explained. Operating between 30 and 70% SOC, he said they are able to provide full power. The internal resistance of each cell is < 7 mΩ, superior to most other cylindrical power cells that typically have resistance exceeding 10 mΩ. He also explained that they “have minimum resistance not only in the cell but also in the cell interconnects and all the cell connectors.” To maintain the demands of continuous 29 kW power output, the pack needs to deal with heat, and there’s a carefully planned cooling system. “We use a standard water-glycol system but with a very complex design of the cooling plate,” Bitsche said. A graphic showed cooling on both the sides and bottom of individual cells. With this design, he said they can get 2.4 kW of heat out of the battery pack continuously. To demonstrate the efficacy of their design, Bitsche showed race data from the famous Nürburgring. In less than 8 minutes of hard driving, the battery pack cycles in delivering nearly 50 kW of power and recharging, but the temperature only increases from 30 °C to about 50 °C. The improvements from this battery become clear when comparing the 911 with and without the t-hybrid setup. In 2.5 seconds, the 911 Carrera GTS covers 14.5 meters, but the t-hybrid variant is 7 meters ahead. Racing to 100 km/h, the GTS takes 3.4 seconds, but the t-hybrid can do it in 3 seconds flat. This all culminated in shaving 8.7 seconds off the prior model’s best time at the Nürburgring with the updated GTS. Volkswagen Bets on New Chemistries: Sodium-Ion, LNMO, Solid-State Volkswagen AG Head of Technology Development and Simulation Battery Cells and Systems Rouven Scheffler discussed battery technology in their range of vehicle offerings. He pointed out that within the battery division, PowerCo group is a cell supplier, whereas the Center of Excellence, of which he is a member, develops battery systems, working with both PowerCo and other manufacturers’ cells. He began with a focus point: an EV battery accounts for approximately 40% of the cost of the vehicle, so for the batteries, “it’s really important to bundle up all the competencies, all the know-how into one organization,” he said. “This is done with the Center of Excellence.” Volkswagen opts for a unified cell approach, a standardized prismatic form factor, intended to be used in 80% of EVs across its brands, that is amenable to different chemistries. Currently this is limited to NMC for range and performance and LFP for affordability. But Scheffler used his address to provide a future outlook, including their vision for sodium-ion, lithium nickel manganese oxide (LNMO), and solid-state batteries, considering how these technologies might
How Credo Beauty created new plastic from tiny bits of packaging
Less than 10 percent of single-use plastic is recycled, most of it bottles and jugs. That rate is far lower — close to zero, in fact — for smaller bits and pieces of packaging such as bottle caps, straws and coffee pods. In the cosmetics industry, for example, few of the 120 billion units of lotion pumps, mascara wands and other components made each year are recycled, according to the Pact Collective. The nonprofit has gathered 140 cosmetics makers and retailers — including Sephora, Ulta Beauty and L’Oréal — to attack small-format plastic waste. Pact maintains more than 3,300 bins for spent makeup jars, lids and applicators at North American stores including Nordstrom Rack and L’Occitane en Provence. To further its mission, the collective created something new from nearly 232 tons of detritus it has collected since 2022. Last year, as its collection volumes tripled, the organization transformed piles of plastics into a novel resin. Credo Beauty, a founding member of Pact, then used that resin, called NewMatter, to create recyclable pumps for its moisturizer bottles. Those pumps usually blend several types of plastic with a metal coil, which prevents its recycling. Credo, however, used a single material — polypropylene — to make it easier to recycle later. Now that it has cracked this challenge, Pact seeks to encourage investors and infrastructure builders to support systems to collect, sort and recycle more small-format plastics. “As the first beauty retailer to co-create a recycled resin from hard-to-recycle empties, we saw an opportunity to show circularity at work,” said Christina Ross, head of science and impact at Credo Beauty, a founding member of the Pact Collective of Colorado. “This pump became a proof point and we can’t wait to see what brands do with the material next.” Banding together As international negotiations continue on a global plastics treaty, Pact isn’t the only corporate collaboration trying to keep packaging components out of landfills and incinerators. In February, the Consortium for Small Formats launched with backing from L’Oréal Groupe, Kraft Heinz and P&G. Individual brands’ efforts at circular packaging include refill programs from the likes of Kiehl’s and customer collection programs for MAC Cosmetics. Members of the U.S. Plastics Pact, meanwhile, have focused on sweeping benchmarks for reducing the proliferation of petroleum-based plastics, but their 2025 and 2030 deadlines are slipping out of reach. “We are taking a different angle,” said Pact Collective Executive Director Carly Snider. “We’re collecting this material and then proving that it has value.” The initial heavy lift shows that certain cosmetics plastics can be integrated into municipal recycling systems, she added. “I’m hopeful that we can have this case study to show that this material has value, and therefore it’s worth the investment to your infrastructure for us to collect this material curbside.” A Pact collection bin at a Nordstrom Rack store in Skokie, Illinois. Credit: Trellis Group / Elsa Wenzel Pact’s June 26 impact report described how Credo’s custom pump, announced in September, fit into a busy year of scaling up recycling. Ninety-eight percent of the paper, glass and metal collected by Pact has been recycled. So has 70 percent of sorted, clean plastics. Retail collection bins are core to Pact’s mission to grow as a household name for consumers, three-quarters of whom care about sustainable packaging, according to the nonprofit. Pact also collected 88,959 pounds of industrial waste of returns and expired or damaged goods last year. The making of the NewMatter pump “We used NewMatter resin for the pump because we wanted to show that beauty packaging can be made from beauty waste,” said Ross of Credo. “No one had ever made a high-functioning component from post-consumer beauty packaging before, so we knew the road wouldn’t be easy but also that it mattered.” The journey to make the recycled pump started as Pact’s consumer-and-industrial packaging streams shipped to a plant in Lake Zurich, Illinois. After being sorted into 14 categories, the would-be trash was sent to mechanical recycling partners. Next, the plastic recycler shredded and turned the waste into pellets. Recyclers can require tens of thousands of pounds of a single source of material to create a resin. Pact’s limited run, however, involved a far smaller volume. Ultimately, the NewMatter resin blended material from Pact’s collection bins with ocean-bound plastic gathered by hand in Malaysia. The Credo pump included an 84 percent mix of NewMatter with 16 percent virgin polypropylene. “It took a lot of work with them to figure out ways that we can get this material in there,” Snider said. “This is a really high value source of plastic.” One pound of plastic waste stays out of landfills or oceans for every 38 pumps that Credo makes, according to Pact. Next steps Beyond the pump, Pact also turned recycled high-density polyethylene into soap dishes with Terrazzo-like flecks in them. “It’s really creating a way that customers can hold circularity in their hands,” Snider said. “It’s not this abstract thing.” Credo is exploring where else it can use NewMatter resin, such as closures and other components that tend to be hard to recycle. “Now that the infrastructure is set up to use take-backs on a more circular level, we need to continue to create a demand for post-consumer beauty-grade materials,” Ross said. That includes exploring how extended producer responsibility regulations cropping up in multiple states can help brands to advance innovative packaging, she added. “You’re missing a huge piece of the puzzle here by just sending this to the landfill and not being able to sell it again,” Snider, of Pact, said. The post How Credo Beauty created new plastic from tiny bits of packaging appeared first on Trellis.
FEATool Multiphysics 1.17.4 improves geometry, interface
FEATool Multiphysics version 1.17.4 includes updates to its CAD and geometry engine, adds support for tabulated and interpolated coefficient data, and introduces improvements to the user interface and performance. Built-in support for tabulated data in coefficients A new feature in FEATool Multiphysics v1.17.4 adds support for using non-linear tabulated and interpolated equation and boundary coefficients. Coefficients from TXT, CSV, and Microsoft Excel (XLS, XLSX) files can now be used directly in both the toolbox and stand-alone versions, eliminating the need for custom user-defined functions. Please see the corresponding documentation and simple tutorial example using a tabulated coefficient for the thermal conductivity as a function of temperature. FEATool Multiphysics toolbox for MATLAB 2025a/online and later Due to MathWorks’ shift from a Java-based to a web/JavaScript-based UI in MATLAB 2025a and later, the current toolbox UI shows reduced performance in this version. For optimal performance, using the toolbox with MATLAB 2024b or earlier is currently recommended. A new toolbox user interface (GUI) is in development, and scheduled to be available in a later 2.0 release, including full Python integration allowing users to use either or Python, MATLAB, or GNU Octave. OpenFOAM and CFD Solver updates FEATool Multiphysics, the easiest and fastest way to get started with OpenFOAM and CFD simulations! Improved Flow Mode Control: A new check-box toggle for automatic pressure constraint in CFD and flow simulation physics modes has been added. This provides users with more direct control over simulation settings, simplifying the setup for fluid dynamics problems. Enhanced Error Handling for External Solvers: Users now have the option to save OpenFOAM and SU2 case/config files on error. This vital feature allows for easier debugging and troubleshooting, enabling users to inspect the solver’s state at the point of failure and refine their models more efficiently. ESI/OpenCFD OpenFOAM distribution: It is recommended to use ESI/OpenCFD OpenFOAM distribution (openfoam.com) to ensure CFD solver compatibility (instead of using the OpenFOAM Foundation distribution openfoam.org) Standardized SU2 Turbulence Model: The SU2 CFD solver has been updated to default to the V2003m SST turbulence model. This standardization ensures a robust and widely validated turbulence model is used by default, contributing to more accurate and reliable turbulent flow simulations. Miscellaneous updates Update OpenCASCADE geometry engine to v7.9.1 with improved stability and handling of geometries with multiple sub-domains (for Windows and Linux systems) Added setinf function (to set infinite values to specific number, analog to setnan) Added solver troubleshooting section to the toolbox documentation New import fea struct from MATLAB File menu option Added categories to physics mode selection list, for easier UI selection User interface (GUI) consistency improvements Minor bug fixes CFDTool fluid dynamics simulation toolbox In addition to the updates to the FEATool Multiphysics toolbox described above, the simplified sister toolbox CFDTool has also been updated to version 1.10.4, streamlining the user interface (GUI) to mirror the FEATool UI, making switching between the toolboxes easier and natural. CFDTool is a streamlined version of the FEATool toolbox, focused on fluid mechanics and heat transfer simulations. For users requiring more advanced multiphysics capabilities and MATLAB m-file scripting, the FEATool Multiphysics toolbox is a more suitable option. Designed and developed for engineers and researchers Accurate and efficient simulations: FEATool Multiphysics provides simulation tools that help engineers analyze designs, streamline development, and support performance evaluation. Expanded application areas: The new features and enhancements broaden the range of applications for FEATool, making it suitable for a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, and process engineering. Increased productivity: The improved user interface and streamlined workflows enhance productivity and allow engineers to focus on their simulations rather than technical complexities. Availability and download The physics simulation toolboxes FEATool Multiphysics 1.17.4 and CFDTool 1.10.4 are available right now both as stand-alone desktop apps, and also as MATLAB toolbox Add-Ons, with fully interactive GUI and cross-platform support for the Microsoft Windows, Linux, and MacOS operating systems. The toolboxes can be downloaded directly from www.featool.com/download or www.cfdtool.com/download (or installed with one-click from the MATLAB Add-Ons Toolbar). The post FEATool Multiphysics 1.17.4 improves geometry, interface appeared first on Engineering.com.
Podcast: Tesla Robotaxi odds, Rivian R1 Quad, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and more
In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss Tesla Robotaxi odds, Rivian R1 Quad, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and more Today’s episode is brought to you by Bosch Mobility Aftermarket—A global leader and trusted provider of automotive aftermarket parts. To celebrate Amazon Prime Day, Bosch Mobility is offering exclusive savings on must-have auto parts and tools. Today is the final day for Prime Day savings, so hurry and grab those Bosch sales before they disappear! Learn more here. more…
GKN Aerospace delivers electrical wiring for Clean Aviation’s hybrid aircraft project
UK-based components supplier GKN Aerospace has completed and delivered the first high-voltage Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS) for the Clean Aviation SWITCH project. The AC wire harnesses, designed, assembled and tested at GKN Aerospace’s site in Papendrecht, the Netherlands, enable megawatt-class hybrid electric propulsion. Additional units will be shipped in July to Collins Aerospace’s advanced electric power systems lab, The Grid, in Rockford, Illinois, and will undergo system integration testing later this year. The system will then support hybrid-electric Pratt & Whitney GTF engine demonstrator testing at EME Aero in Poland. The SWITCH project is an international collaboration focused on developing advanced aircraft propulsion technologies for enabling improved efficiency and performance in future short- and medium-range aircraft. Led by a consortium including MTU Aero Engines AG, RTX businesses Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace, Airbus and GKN Aerospace, SWITCH is supported by the European Union through the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking. “The delivery of GKN’s high-voltage electric wiring system to RTX is a critical next step toward demonstrating the effectiveness of hybrid-electric propulsion technology for future aircraft platforms,” said Kristin Smith, Vice President, Electric Power Systems at Collins Aerospace. “As part of the SWITCH project, Collins’s powertrain system will begin testing later this year at The Grid lab before assembly and test of two Collins megawatt-class power motor generators within a full-scale Pratt & Whitney GTF demonstrator engine.” Source: GKN Aerospace
Tesla Semis to get 18 new Megachargers at this PepsiCo plant
Tesla partner PepsiCo is set to build new Semi charging stations at one of its manufacturing sites, as revealed in new permitting plans shared this week. On Friday, Tesla charging station scout MarcoRP shared plans on X for 18 Semi Megacharging stalls at PepsiCo’s facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, coming as the latest update plans for the company’s increasingly electrified fleet. The stalls are set to be built side by side, along with three Tesla Megapack grid-scale battery systems. The plans also note the faster charging speeds for the chargers, which can charge the Class 8 Semi at speeds of up to 1MW. Tesla says that the speed can charge the Semi back to roughly 70 percent in around 30 minutes. You can see the site plans for the PepsiCo North Carolina Megacharger below. Credit: PepsiCo (via MarcoRPi1 on X) Credit: PepsiCo (via MarcoRPi1 on X) READ MORE ON THE TESLA SEMI: Tesla to build Semi Megacharger station in Southern California PepsiCo’s Tesla Semi fleet, other Megachargers, and initial tests and deliveries PepsiCo was the first external customer to take delivery of Tesla’s Semis back in 2023, starting with just an initial order of 15. Since then, the company has continued to expand the fleet, recently taking delivery of an additional 50 units in California. The PepsiCo fleet was up to around 86 units as of last year, according to statements from Semi Senior Manager Dan Priestley. Additionally, the company has similar Megachargers at its facilities in Modesto, Sacramento, and Fresno, California, and Tesla also submitted plans for approval to build 12 new Megacharging stalls in Los Angeles County. Over the past couple of years, Tesla has also been delivering the electric Class 8 units to a number of other companies for pilot programs, and Priestley shared some results from PepsiCo’s initial Semi tests last year. Notably, the executive spoke with a handful of PepsiCo workers who said they really liked the Semi and wouldn’t plan on going back to diesel trucks. The company is also nearing completion of a higher-volume Semi plant at its Gigafactory in Nevada, which is expected to eventually have an annual production capacity of 50,000 Semi units. Tesla executive teases plan to further electrify supply chain The post Tesla Semis to get 18 new Megachargers at this PepsiCo plant appeared first on TESLARATI.
Tesla to open first India experience center in Mumbai on July 15
Tesla is officially entering India with the opening of its first showroom and experience center in Mumbai next week. The event is scheduled for July 15 at the Bandra Kurla Complex, a premier business district in Mumbai. Tesla imports to India signal an early-stage market entry strategy According to Indian customs data, Tesla has imported approximately $1 million worth of vehicles, charging equipment, and merchandise into the country between January and June. The shipments include six Model Y comprised of five standard variants valued at $32,500 each and one long-range model valued at $46,000. Several Superchargers and related accessories were also imported into the country, as noted in a Yahoo Finance report. These vehicles are expected to serve as display models and test units as Tesla gauges interest and navigates India’s high import duties, which hover around 70% on fully built vehicles. Despite the significant tariffs in the country, Tesla has opted to begin its India expansion with imported cars. Tesla India is finally launching on July 15th with showroom opening in BKC, Mumbai All @Tesla 2016 Indian reservation holders should receive the invite before media does @elonmusk !! pic.twitter.com/j4hvvVxEDJ — Tesla Club India® (@TeslaClubIN) July 11, 2025 An invitation to the Tesla India launch event has been making the rounds online. As could be seen in the document, Tesla noted that July 15 would be the launch of Tesla in India through the opening of a Tesla experience centre at Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai. Tesla India’s hiring and expansion efforts are underway Tesla has filled a number of key roles from the 30+ positions it advertised earlier this year. Recent hires include store managers, service executives, and sales staff, while ongoing recruitment is focused on supply chain engineers and vehicle operators to support the company’s Autopilot program. Indian officials have been open about their intention to encourage Tesla to establish a manufacturing hub in the country. Tesla does seem open to the idea, at least, with reports last year hinting that Elon Musk was set to visit the country to discuss or even potentially announce a domestic project. The trip, however, was ultimately canceled. The post Tesla to open first India experience center in Mumbai on July 15 appeared first on TESLARATI.
Tesla sets November 6 date for 2025 Annual Shareholder Meeting
Tesla has scheduled its 2025 annual shareholder meeting for November 6, addressing investor concerns that the company was nearing a legal deadline to hold the event. The automaker announced the date on Thursday in a Form 8-K submitted to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The company also listed a new proposal submission deadline of July 31 for items to be included in the proxy statement. Tesla’s announcement followed calls from a group of 27 shareholders, including the leaders of large public pension funds, which urged Tesla’s board to formally set the meeting date, as noted in a report from The Wall Street Journal. Tesla's Shareholder Meeting will be November 6, 2025.Don't over-interpret the sentences that follow, those are just normal procedure, as the date is later than usual. Nothing to read into it.I expect us to get the proxy first half of September.(Interesting, probably after… pic.twitter.com/Szwiu1oPXX — Ale𝕏andra Merz (@TeslaBoomerMama) July 10, 2025 The group noted that under Texas law, where Tesla is now incorporated, companies must hold annual meetings within 13 months of the last one if requested by shareholders. Tesla’s previous annual shareholder meeting was held on June 13, 2024, which placed the July 13 deadline in focus. Tesla originally stated in its 2024 annual report that it would file its proxy statement by the end of April. However, an amended filing on April 30 indicated that the Board of Directors had not yet finalized a meeting date, at least at the time. The April filing also confirmed that Tesla’s board had formed a special committee to evaluate certain matters related to CEO Elon Musk’s compensation plan. Musk’s CEO performance award remains at the center of a lengthy legal dispute in Delaware, Tesla’s former state of incorporation. Due to the aftermath of Musk’s legal dispute about his compensation plan in Delaware, he has not been paid for his work at Tesla for several years. Musk, for his part, has noted that he is more concerned about his voting stake in Tesla than his actual salary. At last year’s annual meeting, TSLA shareholders voted to reapprove Elon Musk’s compensation plan and ratified Tesla’s decision to relocate its legal domicile from Delaware to Texas. The post Tesla sets November 6 date for 2025 Annual Shareholder Meeting appeared first on TESLARATI.
EVs getting cleaner more quickly than expected in Europe: study
As Europe’s electricity mix is getting cleaner, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) are also offering a larger climate advantage than previously expected, according to the results of a new study released this week. On Wednesday, the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) released a study noting that BEVs sold today produce 73 percent fewer life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, even factoring in production. This figure also represents a 24-percent improvement upon the organization’s 2021 estimates for this year, meaning that BEVs are getting cleaner more quickly than expected as the continent’s renewable programs continue to grow. The study was comprised of a comprehensive life-cycle analysis of all major powertrain types, and the results suggest that BEVs are the only widely available powertrain that can slash emissions levels enough to meet climate goals. By contrast, the study’s results suggest that other clean energy powertrains, such as hybrids and plugin hybrids, only have a marginal impact, if any, on reducing the overall climate impact of the transportation sector. “Battery electric cars in Europe are getting cleaner faster than we expected and outperform all other technologies, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids,” says ICCT researcher Dr. Marta Negri. “This progress is largely due to the fast deployment of renewable electricity across the continent and the greater energy efficiency of battery electric cars.” Credit: International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) READ MORE ON ELECTRIC VEHICLES: Study reveals hybrids could have up to 4.9x lifetime emissions vs. BEVs ICCT Senior Researcher Dr. Georg Bieker says he also hopes the analysis can help fight misinformation regarding BEV powertrains. For example, he notes that, while it’s true that manufacturing emissions for BEVs can be up to 40 percent higher than for ICE vehicles, this is quickly offset by an electric automobile after just around 17,000 km (~10,563 miles) of driving. “We hope this study brings clarity to the public conversation, so that policymakers and industry leaders can make informed decisions,” Dr. Bieker says. “We’ve recently seen auto industry leaders misrepresenting the emissions math on hybrids. But life-cycle analysis is not a choose-your-own-adventure exercise.” Additionally, the ICCT study covers emissions from both vehicle and battery production, recycling, fuel and electricity production, fuel consumption, and maintenance. “Our study accounts for the most representative use cases and is grounded in real-world data,” Dr. Bieker adds. “Consumers deserve accurate, science-backed information.” U.S. EV adoption still on pace to reach 50% by 2030: data The post EVs getting cleaner more quickly than expected in Europe: study appeared first on TESLARATI.
These Tesla, X, and xAI engineers were just poached by OpenAI
OpenAI, the xAI competitor for which Elon Musk previously served as a boardmember and helped to co-found, has reportedly poached high-level engineers from Tesla, along with others from xAI, X, and still others. On Tuesday, Wired reported that OpenAI hired four high-level engineers from Tesla, xAI, and X, as seen in an internal Slack message sent by co-founder Greg Brockman. The engineers include Tesla Vice President of Software Engineering David Lau, X and xAI’s head of infrastructure engineering Uday Ruddarraju, and fellow xAI infrastructure engineer Mike Dalton. The hiring spree also included Angela Fan, an AI researcher from Meta. “We’re excited to welcome these new members to our scaling team,” said Hannah Wong, an OpenAI spokesperson. “Our approach is to continue building and bringing together world-class infrastructure, research, and product teams to accelerate our mission and deliver the benefits of AI to hundreds of millions of people.” Lau has been in his position as Tesla’s VP of Software Engineering since 2017, after previously working for the company’s firmware, platforms, and system integration divisions. “It has become incredibly clear to me that accelerating progress towards safe, well-aligned artificial general intelligence is the most rewarding mission I could imagine for the next chapter of my career,” Lau said in a statement to Wired. Optimistic projections point to xAI possibly attaining profitability by 2027, according to Bloomberg's sources. If accurate, this would be quite a feat for xAI. OpenAI, its biggest rival, is still looking at 2029 as the year it could become cash flow positive. — TESLARATI (@Teslarati) June 18, 2025 READ MORE ON OPENAI: Elon Musk’s OpenAI lawsuit clears hurdle as trial looms At xAI, Ruddarraju and Dalton both played a large role in developing the Colossus supercomputer, which is comprised of over 200,000 GPUs. One of the major ongoing projects at OpenAI is the company’s Stargate program, “Infrastructure is where research meets reality, and OpenAI has already demonstrated this successfully,” Ruddarraju told Wired in another statement. “Stargate, in particular, is an infrastructure moonshot that perfectly matches the ambitious, systems-level challenges I love taking on.” Elon Musk is currently in the process of suing OpenAI for shifting toward a for-profit model, as well as for accepting an investment of billions of dollars from Microsoft. OpenAI retaliated with a counterlawsuit, in which it alleges that Musk is interfering with the company’s business and engaging in unfair competition practices. Elon Musk confirms Grok 4 launch on July 9 with livestream event The post These Tesla, X, and xAI engineers were just poached by OpenAI appeared first on TESLARATI.
Unleashing Lithium Power: Energy Storage Battery Innovations for Home, Golf Cart, and On‑the‑Go Solutions
The transition to clean energy and electrification is accelerating across sectors—and lithium technology is at the forefront. From grid-scale deployments to individual homeowners, recreational users, and outdoor enthusiasts, here’s how key segments are evolving: The energy storage battery revolution supporting power systems worldwide The rise of home energy storage for residential resilience The increasing adoption of lithium battery for golf cart as a mobility upgrade The rising demand for portable battery packs for outdoor and emergency needs 1. Energy Storage Battery: Backbone of Modern Power Infrastructure Explosive Grid‑Scale Deployment 2025 marks a milestone in energy storage battery expansion. Recent data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects around 18.2 GW of utility-scale battery storage coming online this year—an 80% jump from 2024's 10.3 GW trojanbattery.com+4manlybattery.com+4shop.lithiumbatterypower.com+4energy.ca.goveia.gov. Wired reports U.S. battery capacity has already surpassed 26 GW, overtaking pumped hydro storage wired.com+1vox.com+1. Just yesterday, Arizona activated the Papago Storage facility—300 MW / 1,200 MWh, now feeding stored energy into the APS grid ahead of peak summer demand en.wikipedia.org+3ess-news.com+3electrek.co+3. Likewise, Reuters highlights the surge—U.S. capacity has soared from 2 GW in 2020 to nearly 30 GW as of April 2025, stabilizing grids and storing solar power for evening peaks ess-news.com+4reuters.com+4businessinsider.com+4. Global Ambitions & Tech Evolution Wood Mackenzie projects a need for 1.4 TW of grid-forming energy storage battery capacity by 2034, with $1.2 trillion in investments required reuters.com+4pv-magazine-usa.com+4reddit.com+4. Meanwhile, India inaugurated a 20 MW / 40 MWh battery system in Delhi, marking South Asia’s largest BESS yet businessinsider.com+5en.wikipedia.org+5timesofindia.indiatimes.com+5. In New Zealand, Meridian Energy’s Ruakākā park (100 MW / 200 MWh) started operation this May energy-storage.news+2en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2. These utility-scale facilities are transforming how grids handle solar and wind variability—acting as buffer zones, peak shavers, and emergency reserve resources. 2. Home Energy Storage: Empowering Households Consumer‑Driven Transformation Residential energy storage is no longer niche. Australia has introduced a 30% subsidy for household battery installs, aiming for 82% renewables by 2030 theaustralian.com.au. In Texas, Base Power is deploying home battery systems across Lennar communities for backup and grid services via ERCOT's ADER pilot mysanantonio.com. Real-World Benefits Home energy storage systems typically offer 5–50 kWh capacity—ideal for: Storing solar energy for evening or cloudy days Reducing peak‑hour electricity costs Backup power during outages Participating in grid programs (e.g. demand response) By enabling energy independence, managing time-of-use billing, and contributing to virtual power plants, these systems are reshaping the household energy landscape. 3. Lithium Battery for Golf Cart: A Cleaner, Smarter Ride A Quiet Revolution on the Course Golf courses and low-speed vehicle communities are transitioning from lead-acid to lithium battery for golf cart setups. Fleet Lithium now offers drop-in packs for E-Z-GO, Club Car, and Yamaha, boosting range, cutting weight, and eliminating upkeep businessinsider.com+2trojanbattery.com+2manlybattery.com+2golfcaradvisor.com+4fleetlithium.com+4shop.lithiumbatterypower.com+4. At PGA 2025, ROYPOW debuted lithium golf cart packs with smart SOC meters and Bluetooth monitoring roypow.com+1golfcaradvisor.com+1. Meanwhile, Trojan’s OnePack™ Extended Range 48 V, 171 Ah unit delivers up to 75 miles per charge, an 8‑year warranty, and multiple built‑in safety redundancies trojanbattery.com+1fleetlithium.com+1. Safety First However, Florida reported a rising number of fires linked to cheap golf cart lithium chargers, leading to home evacuations and tens of thousands in damage news4jax.com+1trojanbattery.com+1. Fire experts stress using certified chargers only, ensuring proper ventilation, and avoiding overcharging to reduce fire risk. 4. Portable Battery Pack: Power at Your Fingertips On-Demand Energy Solutions From camping to emergency backup, portable battery pack devices (300–2,000 Wh) are gaining traction. TechRadar highlights major Prime Day deals across brands like EcoFlow, Anker, Bluetti, and Jackery—from small units to full-home systems techradar.com. These portable battery pack units offer: Quiet, emission-free power Compatibility with AC, DC, USB, and Type‑C outputs Optional solar charging ports Smartphone monitoring Modular design for scaling capacity They’re rapidly replacing noisy generators in outdoor and off-grid scenarios. Industrial-Grade Alternatives Companies like Ampace are pushing the boundaries—unveiling the Andes 1500 (1,462 Wh, 6,000-cycle lifespan) and introducing sizeable commercial portable stations reddit.com+1wired.com+1en.wikipedia.org. These deliver grid-like reliability in compact form. Future Outlook: Lithium’s Expanding Reach Second-Life Batteries Going Big Redwood Materials is repurposing used EV batteries into large-scale energy storage battery systems. Their first deployment—a 12 MW / 63 MWh “second-life” energy hub—powers an AI data center, marking the largest such system globally businessinsider.com. They aim for 20 GWh repurposed capacity by 2028. Smart Integration & Cyber Security A recently published paper introduces “weather‑driven priority charging” algorithms—maximizing efficiency and longevity of interconnected storage systems businessinsider.comarxiv.org. Another study warns of rising cyber threats to cloud-managed battery systems arxiv.org. Regulatory & Market Supports Policies like Australia’s subsidy, ERCOT pilots, and U.S. interconnection reforms (FERC Order 841) are accelerating adoption at both residential and grid scales vox.com. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1: What’s the difference between “energy storage battery” and “home energy storage”? Energy storage battery refers to large-scale, utility-grade facilities (MW–GWh) for grid stability and renewable integration. Home energy storage systems are smaller (kWh–tens of kWh) for residential use—solar pairing, backup power, and utility savings. Q2: Are lithium batteries for golf carts safe?Yes—when you use certified units from reputable brands like Fleet Lithium or Trojan OnePack™, and follow manufacturer charger and storage protocols. Avoid low-cost uncertified chargers to reduce fire risk ess-news.comtrojanbattery.com+5news4jax.com+5fleetlithium.com+5fleetlithium.com+1trojanbattery.com+1. Q3: How long do portable battery packs last?High-quality lithium-based portable battery pack units typically offer 500–6,000 cycles. Ampace’s Andes 1500 claims a 6,000-cycle lifespan . Most can also connect to solar panels for off-grid charging. Q4: What’s the benefit of second-life battery systems?They repurpose EV batteries with 50–80% capacity left, offering cost-effective, sustainable large-scale storage—like Redwood's 12 MW / 63 MWh project businessinsider.com. Q5: Can I upgrade my lead-acid golf cart to lithium easily?Yes. Lithium kits are drop-in compatible with major brands (E-Z-GO, Club Car, Yamaha) and system voltages (36V, 48V, 72V), offering longer range, zero maintenance, and smartphone-enabled BMS fleetlithium.com. Lithium-powered energy storage battery, home energy storage, lithium battery for golf cart, and portable battery pack technologies collectively represent a seismic shift in how we generate, store, and use electricity. From stabilizing large grids to powering your next adventure, lithium’s versatility is transforming our energy landscape. Interested in exploring solutions for your home, vehicle, or outdoor lifestyle? I'm here to help—just ask!
Study: AI can cut billions of tons of carbon from food, power and mobility sectors
Discussion over AI and climate tends to cluster around two duelling opinions: Advocates hail the technology’s potential to accelerate progress toward net zero, while skeptics warn of a leap in emissions caused by the energy needed to power it. Researchers at the London School of Economics (LSE) have weighed the two options and come down firmly on the advocates’ side. According to their analysis, AI has the potential to cut emissions by 3.2 to 5.4 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) annually by 2035. At the upper end of the range, that’s around 10 percent of the current global total. The impact far outweighs the expected annual increase in emissions due to AI’s power demands, which the researchers peg at 0.4 to 1.6 GtCO2e over the same period. The team’s findings are even more encouraging given that they restricted their analysis of the upsides of AI to just three sectors — power, food and mobility — while the technology’s energy use was calculated by looking across all areas of the economy. Their paper was published last month in npj Climate Action. How AI can help The LSE team focused on the three sectors because each contains potential opportunities for AI to drive decarbonization. In food, for instance, scientists can use AI to study molecular structures. This has already produced benefits in biomedical research and could accelerate development of alternative proteins that displace meat and dairy products. AI can also model electrical grids, speeding the integration of renewables and reduce vehicle ownership by optimizing systems used to manage shared transport. For each sector, the team drew upon expert opinion and studies of AI’s potential to estimate its impact on three factors that determine how quickly a new technology will spread: cost relative to alternatives, appeal to users and ease of access. The researchers then projected the sectors’ emissions through 2035 with AI applied and under business as usual (BAU) scenarios. Source: Green and intelligent: the role of AI in the climate transition. npj Clim. Action 4, 56 (2025). “The world faces an unprecedented opportunity to leverage AI as a catalyst for the net-zero transition,” wrote the team, which includes Nicholas Stern, chair of LSE’s Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment and an influential figure in climate policy. “Our estimates show that the emissions reduction potential from AI applications in just three sectors alone would more than offset the total AI’s emissions increase in all economic activities, making a strong case for using AI for resolving the climate threat.” The post Study: AI can cut billions of tons of carbon from food, power and mobility sectors appeared first on Trellis.
ABB updates IRB 1200 robot series with new payload options
ABB Robotics has introduced an updated generation of its IRB 1200 small robot series, designed to offer improved speed and precision. The new models are available in four payload options—5, 7, 8, and 9 kg. The 9 kg variant is suitable for tasks involving larger or heavier components, supporting a range of industrial applications that require compact robotic solutions. IRB 1200 four variants-class leading payloads of up to 9 kg Powered by ABB’s OmniCore controller, the new robots offer motion control with path accuracy of 0.6 mm and pose repeatability of 0.011 mm, even when operating multiple units at speeds up to 1600 mm/s. The new IRB 1200 robot family offers a 5% improvement in cycle time, supporting precise operations in tasks such as surface finishing, assembly, and dispensing. It is suitable for use in electronics, general industrial, automotive electronics, and consumer product applications that require consistent, high-throughput performance. IRB 1200 suitable for high-end process applications such as surface finishing The new IRB 1200 features a streamlined design that supports more compact installation and helps maintain production output within the same footprint. It is also 20% lighter than the previous generation, which can reduce the load on mounting structures and lower overall energy use. The new generation IRB 1200 family, supported by the OmniCore controller, provides access to ABB’s software tools, including RobotStudio, RobotStudio AI Assistant, and AppStudio, to support programming and configuration. For more information, visit global.abb. The post ABB updates IRB 1200 robot series with new payload options appeared first on Engineering.com.
BMW ups the ante with the fastest, most powerful electric maxi-scooter
BMW Motorrad’s futuristic electric scooter just got its first real refresh since beginning production in 2021. The BMW CE 04, already one of the most capable and stylish electric maxi-scooters on the market, now gets a set of upgraded trim options, new aesthetic touches, and a more robust list of features that aim to make this urban commuter even more appealing to riders looking for serious electric performance on two wheels. more…
ZF introduces TempAI to optimize EV electric motor thermal management
ZF has introduced TempAI, a production-ready, AI-based temperature management technology designed to improve the performance and efficiency of electric motors in electric vehicles. Utilizing a self-learning temperature model, TempAI enhances temperature prediction accuracy by over 15 percent, enabling more precise thermal utilization of electric motors and increasing performance without compromising reliability. The TempAI platform automatically generates physics-based models from extensive measurement data, becoming operational quickly and requiring minimal computing resources. Existing control units are sufficient, allowing for cost-efficient implementation in series production. According to ZF, TempAI delivers targeted electric motor control right up to thermal operating limits, resulting in up to six percent higher peak power and measurable efficiency improvements in the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) cycle. Under dynamic driving scenarios—such as high-performance circuits like the Nürburgring Nordschleife—the technology reduces energy consumption by 6 to 18 percent, dependent on load conditions. TempAI also enables ecological benefits, as its optimized thermal design can significantly reduce the reliance on heavy rare earth materials. The solution also offers substantial time savings during development, reducing durations from several months to merely a few days via AI-driven modeling. During motor development, AI-driven TempAI models effectively learn and predict internal motor thermal processes that are otherwise difficult or expensive to measure directly, such as rotor temperatures. The technology capitalizes on extensive dataset analyses collected during functional tests on test benches and in test vehicles, involving millions of data points related to variables like ambient temperatures, rotor speeds and driver behavior patterns. “This technology enables us to further increase the efficiency and reliability of our drives,” said Dr. Stefan Sicklinger, Head of AI, Digital Engineering, and Validation in R&D, ZF. “At the same time, TempAI demonstrates how data-driven development can be not only faster, but also more sustainable and more powerful.” Source: ZF
China’s intense EV rivalry tests Thailand’s local production goals
Hyper-competition in China’s electric vehicle sector is spilling over to its biggest market in Asia, Thailand, as smaller players struggle to compete with dominant BYD , putting ambitious local production plans at risk. Neta, among the earliest Chinese EV brands to enter Thailand in 2022, is an example of a struggling automaker finding it difficult to meet the requirements of a demanding government incentive programme meant to boost Thai EV production. Under the scheme, carmakers are exempt from import duties, but were obligated to match import volumes with domestic production in 2024. Citing slowing sales and tightening credit conditions, carmakers asked the government to adjust the scheme and the 2024 production shortfall was rolled over into this year. Neta has said that it cannot produce the required number of cars locally and the government has withheld some payments to the EV maker, said Excise Department official Panupong Sriket, who received a complaint filed last month by 18 Neta dealers in Thailand seeking to recover over 200 million baht ($6.17 million) of allegedly unpaid debt. The complaint, a copy of which was reviewed by Reuters, also detailed missed payments by Neta related to promised support for building showrooms and after-sales service. “I stopped ordering more cars in September because I sensed something was wrong,” said Neta dealership owner Saravut Khunpitiluck. “I’m currently suing them.” Neta’s parent company, Zhejiang Hozon New Energy Automobile, entered bankruptcy proceedings in China last month, according to state media. Neta and its Chinese parent did not respond to Reuters’ requests for comment. MARKET SHARE DECLINE Neta’s share of Thailand’s EV market peaked at around 12% of EV sales in 2023 when the industry was growing, according to Counterpoint Research data, with BYD having a 49% share that year. In Thailand, a regional auto production and export hub, Chinese brands dominate the EV market with a combined share of more than 70%. The number of Chinese EV brands has doubled in the last year to 18, placing pressure on those that lack the reach of BYD, which has taken over from Tesla as the world’s biggest EV maker. In the first five months of this year, new registration of Neta cars – a proxy for sales – slumped 48.5% from the prior year and its share of EV registrations was down to 4%, according to government data. “Neta’s downturn in Thailand reflects the fragility of second-tier Chinese EV brands both at home and abroad,” said Abhik Mukherjee, an automotive analyst at Counterpoint Research. “Intense price competition and the scale advantages of dominant players have made survival increasingly difficult for smaller companies, particularly in export markets, where margins are slim and robust after-sales support is essential.” In Thailand, Neta’s biggest international market, it sells three models, with the cheapest Neta V-II Lite priced at 549,000 baht ($16,924) before discounts, compared to market leader BYD’s entry-level Dolphin model that is priced at 569,900 baht. Thailand’s domestic auto market has become increasingly competitive amid a sluggish economy. “Some Chinese brands have slashed prices by more than 20%,” said Rujipun Assarut, assistant managing director of KResearch, a unit of Thai lender Kasikornbank. “Pricing has become the main strategy to stimulate buying.” China’s EV overcapacity and price war have pushed automakers to expand abroad, but markets like Thailand are now mirroring the same hyper-competitive pressures, exposing smaller firms to similar risks. ‘NO CONFIDENCE’ Three years ago, Thailand unveiled an ambitious plan to transform its car industry, long dominated by Japanese majors like Toyota and Honda, to ensure at least 30% of its total auto production was EVs by 2030. The country, which exports about half of its auto output, has drawn more than $3 billion in investments from a clutch of Chinese EV makers, including Neta, who were partly lured to Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy by the government incentive scheme. “Neta’s case should give the Thai policymakers pause,” said Ben Kiatkwankul, partner at Bangkok-based government affairs advisory firm, Maverick Consulting Group. Last December, after a sharp sales contraction, Thailand’s Board of Investment gave EV makers an extension to the initial local production timeline to avoid oversupply and a worsening price war. Under the original scheme, local EV production in 2024 was required to match each vehicle imported between February 2022 to December 2023 or the automaker would incur hefty fines. Car manufacturers avoided those fines with the extension carrying over unmet production into this year, but at a higher ratio of 1.5 times imports. Thailand’s Board of Investment did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Siamnat Panassorn, vice president of the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand, said Neta’s issues were company-specific and did not reflect flaws in Thai policies or the market. But external shocks, including geopolitical tensions and the spectre of higher tariffs, have added to the pressure felt by the sector, he said. For Thai Neta dealers like Chatdanai Komrutai, the crisis is deepening. The brand’s car owners have taken to social media in droves to share maintenance issues and limited after-sales support and a consumer watchdog agency is inspecting some of those complaints. “Selling cars is difficult right now,” Chatdanai said. “There’s no confidence.” reuters.com L'articolo China’s intense EV rivalry tests Thailand’s local production goals proviene da BatteryIndustry.net.
