Energy Archives - State of the Planet

map of areas restricted from renewable energy development

Report Finds 228 Local Restrictions Against Siting Wind, Solar, and Other Renewables

Renewable energy projects have encountered significant opposition in at least 45 states, according to a report published May 31.

by Matthew Eisenson |May 31, 2023

EPA’s Regulation of Power Plant Greenhouse Gases Reinforces Sustainability Management

The momentum behind decarbonization is unstoppable as the private sector sees the benefit of a lower cost, less polluting, and more reliable energy system. The energy transition may be delayed by political reactionaries, but it will not be stopped.

by |May 15, 2023
A diverse group of young progessionals standing around in conversation

Finding Community in New York City’s Energy Scene

A student at the School of International and Public Affairs was pleasantly surprised by the range of attendees at a recent Young Professionals in Energy event in New York City.

by Bhavya Jha |April 27, 2023

Overcoming Obstacles to Electric Vehicles: Charging Stations and Lower Prices

The technology of electric vehicles is poised to displace the internal combustion engine, but it will take time to transition away from a century’s worth of infrastructure and investment.

by |April 10, 2023

The Energy Transition Will Need More Rare Earth Elements. Can We Secure Them Sustainably?

Scientists are exploring a variety of ways to provide raw materials for the energy transition with less harm to people and the planet.

by |April 5, 2023
lithium mine in france

The Paradox of Lithium

The clean energy transition depends heavily on lithium, but mining this element is not “clean.” We must not fall into the same traps from which we are trying to free ourselves.

by Marco Tedesco |January 18, 2023
maria antonia tigre headshot

Just Transition Litigation in Latin America: Sabin Center Launches New Report

Looking at 20 just transition lawsuits from Latin America, the report analyzes what arguments are being made and how those arguments have been received by the courts.

by Maria Antonia Tigre |January 4, 2023
tubes and blue light in a narrow room

Fusion-Fueled Clean Energy May Be Closer Than You Think

A Columbia Climate School expert shares his thoughts on the new fusion breakthrough, next steps, and why he’s optimistic about the future of fusion.

by |December 16, 2022
man stands behind solar panels

New Reports Explore Roadblocks to and Drivers of Investment in Renewable Energy

The zero-carbon energy transition is the solution to the 2022 energy crisis and a fundamental part of the solution to the global climate crisis. Two new reports not only identify the main roadblocks to investment in renewables, but also provide actionable recommendations to governments.

Five Things the Energy Transition Can’t Do Without

Achieving the energy transition will take money, minerals, land, water, and skilled labor. Will we have enough of each?

by |December 7, 2022