At Good Energy, we spotlight impactful energy solutions. Around the globe, major energy innovations are transforming how communities generate, store, and access power. From Texas solar surges to French underwater turbines, here are four recent developments making a real difference.
Texas Powers Up: A Solar and Battery Boom
In 2024, Texas made a dramatic leap in renewable energy, adding nearly 9,700 megawatts of solar capacity—more than any other state—and tripling its battery storage to 4,374 megawatts. According to Inside Climate News, the state’s additions from solar and batteries exceeded those from natural gas for the first time, showing a distinct pivot toward clean energy. This expansion enhances grid stability and reduces emissions in a state that leads the U.S. in electricity consumption. Despite its reputation for oil and gas, Texas is fast becoming a powerhouse for solar and battery innovation.
Tidal Power in Normandy: Quiet Energy Beneath the Waves
France is turning to the ocean for clean power. In Normandy, a set of underwater turbines is being installed to harness the energy of tidal currents. These turbines will operate below the surface, generating consistent, predictable electricity without the visual impact of wind or solar farms. As Heise reports, tidal energy offers a significant advantage: reliability. The movement of tides is as certain as the moon’s pull, making it a dependable renewable resource. Once operational, Normandy’s turbines could serve as a blueprint for similar coastal regions around the world.
Nigeria’s Solar Mini-Grids: Power and Progress for Rural Areas
In Nigeria, solar mini-grids are lighting up communities far from the main power grid. These systems—small, local solar networks with battery storage—are creating jobs, boosting local economies, and cutting emissions. According to Knowable Magazine, they’re also helping Nigeria address chronic power shortages while reducing dependence on diesel generators. The Nigerian government, along with international partners, is scaling up mini-grid projects to bring power to millions more people in the coming years. This decentralized approach supports both economic development and climate resilience.
Hydro-Québec Pullback Raises Questions for New England
While innovation accelerates in some regions, others face new challenges. Hydro-Québec, a major supplier of clean hydroelectric power, has significantly reduced electricity exports to New England. As reported by Canary Media, low market prices have made it economically unviable to sell power to the U.S., raising questions about New England’s clean energy strategy. This pullback could hinder the region’s progress on climate goals and force greater reliance on local renewable sources—or, potentially, more fossil fuels if alternatives fall short.
Global Shifts, Local Impact
Each of these stories points to the need for smart, scalable solutions. Whether it’s Texas leading with solar, France proving the potential of tidal power, Nigeria decentralizing energy access, or Canada pulling back on exports, the global energy landscape is evolving fast. At Good Energy, we believe tracking these changes helps communities everywhere make better choices for a cleaner, more resilient future.