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RWE's substantial presence in the offshore wind sector, with 3.3 GW of installed capacity across Europe, underscores its significant role in advancing the energy transition. As a major player in offshore wind, RWE is leveraging its extensive experience and engineering expertise to position itself as a leader in the emerging floating wind sector. Floating wind technology, which allows turbines to be placed in deeper waters where traditional fixed-bottom structures aren't feasible, represents the next frontier in offshore wind. RWE's global approach and technical capabilities make it well-suited to capitalize on this opportunity. By pioneering floating wind, RWE can extend the reach of renewable energy into new areas, contributing to the expansion of clean energy generation on a global scale. The company’s focus on floating wind also aligns with broader industry trends, as countries worldwide seek to increase their renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. RWE’s leadership in this area could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of offshore wind and accelerating the global shift towards sustainable energy (Recharge News). Credit to Andrew Lee Photo by Saitc Offshore Technologies https://lnkd.in/e6BH9QxJ All images are copyright of their respective holders. #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy #waveenergy #waves #ocean #oceanenergy

The deployment of the 826-tonne wave energy converter buoy off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, marks a significant milestone in renewable energy innovation. This "world's first" grid-scale device, developed by Ocean Energy, is set to become a pioneering example of wave energy harnessed for electricity generation. The device, known as the OE-35, has been in development for over 15 years, going through various stages of design, trials, and testing. Once connected to the Hawaiian electricity grid via a subsea cable, it will provide a continuous source of renewable energy by converting the kinetic energy of ocean waves into electricity. The OE-35 operates by using the force of incoming waves to push air through a turbine, which generates electricity as it spins. The innovative design allows the turbine to continue spinning in the same direction, even as the wave retreats, maintaining a steady generation of power. With dimensions of 38 by 18 meters and the capability to produce up to 1.25MW of power, this device represents a major advancement in ocean energy technology. The project is a collaboration between the US and Ireland, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing clean energy technologies. It is funded in part by the US Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of accelerating decarbonization efforts globally by exploring and commercializing new and innovative energy solutions. This wave energy converter could play a crucial role in diversifying the renewable energy mix and enhancing energy security, especially in regions with abundant wave resources like Hawaii (Recharge News). Credit to Cosmo Sanderson Photo by Ocean Energy https://lnkd.in/eikk8S_T All images are copyright of their respective holders. #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy #waveenergy #wave #waves #ocean

Amazon's rapid achievement of its renewable energy goals, driven by its substantial clean energy portfolio, highlights both the success and challenges of large-scale decarbonization efforts. With a clean energy portfolio exceeding 33GW, Amazon has already surpassed its target of covering 100% of its global operations with renewable energy by 2030—seven years ahead of schedule. However, the unexpected surge in demand for generative AI has shifted the company's energy needs, pushing Amazon to explore additional carbon-free energy sources such as nuclear power, battery storage, and other emerging technologies. This shift reflects the broader challenge facing many companies: the rapid evolution of technology and its energy demands can outpace initial sustainability plans, requiring constant adaptation. Amazon's investment in diverse energy sources, including offshore wind and nuclear, illustrates a proactive approach to meet these evolving demands while still pursuing its long-term goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2040. The company's growing focus on offshore wind, with 1.7GW already in its portfolio, also underscores the significant potential of this energy source in meeting future global power needs. This development signals a broader trend where companies may increasingly rely on a mix of renewable and carbon-free energy sources to power the next generation of digital technologies, including AI (Recharge News). Credit to Andrew Lee? Photo by Amazon https://lnkd.in/ez3zCpj2 All images are copyright of their respective holders. #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy

Large-scale, standalone wind farms indeed offer the most cost-effective and reliable electricity generation from wind power today. These projects benefit from optimized turbine placement in areas with consistent, unobstructed wind flow, such as ridgelines, open agricultural fields, or offshore locations. In contrast, building-integrated wind turbines often face challenges that make them less economically viable compared to other renewable energy sources like solar photovoltaics (PV). These challenges include higher installation and maintenance costs, as well as less dependable performance due to turbulent urban wind conditions and potential interference with buildings and occupants. While there's value in showcasing renewable energy technologies through building integration, it's crucial to prioritize practicality and efficiency in energy generation. By focusing on large-scale wind farms located in areas with laminar-flow winds and minimal disturbances, we can maximize the cost-effectiveness and reliability of wind energy while minimizing potential drawbacks associated with building integration. In summary, while building-integrated wind turbines have their merits, particularly in terms of visibility and symbolism, the most effective and economical way to harness wind energy for widespread electricity generation remains through large-scale, standalone wind farms situated in optimal wind resource areas. This approach ensures that wind power contributes significantly to our energy future while delivering reliable and cost-effective renewable electricity (Building Green). Credit to: Alex Wilson Photo by Cascade Engineering, Inc. All images are copyright of their respective holders. #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy

The updated assessment of sea ice age provides valuable insights into the composition and distribution of Arctic sea ice, particularly in relation to its thickness and resilience to melting: 1. Multiyear Ice vs. First-Year Ice: Multiyear ice, which has survived at least one melt season, is generally thicker and more resistant to melting compared to first-year ice, which represents ice growth during the previous autumn and winter. Despite this, first-year ice dominates the Arctic sea ice cover, as it has for the past several years. This suggests ongoing vulnerability to seasonal melting and loss. 2. Changes in Multiyear Ice: The extent of multiyear ice is lower compared to the previous year, primarily due to a decrease in second-year ice, which is one- to two-year-old ice that has survived two melt seasons. However, the extent of multiyear ice remains within the ranges observed since 2008, indicating a relatively stable but reduced presence of older, more resilient ice. 3. Low Levels of Oldest Ice: The oldest ice, defined as ice greater than four years old, has been at very low levels since 2012 and is slightly lower compared to the previous year. The continued scarcity of the oldest ice underscores the ongoing decline in Arctic sea ice resilience and the susceptibility of the region to further ice loss and changes in climate dynamics. Overall, the assessment highlights the dominance of younger, more vulnerable ice types in the Arctic sea ice cover, with reductions observed in the extent of multiyear ice compared to previous years. Understanding these trends in sea ice age distribution is crucial for assessing the vulnerability of Arctic sea ice to climate change and its implications for regional and global climate systems (National Snow and Ice Data Center). Photo by: Tschudi et al., 2019b https://lnkd.in/gzn6RGf7 #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy #seaice #arcticseaice

The update on Arctic sea ice for March 2024 paints a picture of continued decline and variability in ice extent and conditions: 1. March Sea Ice Extent: Following the maximum sea ice extent on March 14, 2024, Arctic ice extent has declined slowly. Despite this slow decline, the average ice extent for March 2024 ranks as the fifteenth lowest in the passive microwave satellite record. This indicates ongoing long-term trends of decreasing ice cover in the Arctic. 2. Atmospheric Circulation Patterns: The atmospheric circulation pattern for March 2024 featured a strong pressure gradient across Fram Strait. This likely led to strong winds from the north, promoting the export of sea ice out of the Arctic. Such atmospheric circulation patterns can influence ice motion and extent in the region. 3. Sea Ice Age Distribution: An update on sea ice age distribution reveals continued scarcity of the oldest ice age classes. Older, thicker ice is more resilient to melting and plays a crucial role in maintaining Arctic ice cover throughout the year. The ongoing scarcity of older ice suggests ongoing vulnerability to further ice loss. 4. Uncertainty Regarding Seasonally Ice-Free Arctic: A new study highlights the uncertainty surrounding predictions of when the Arctic Ocean might become seasonally ice-free. The term "seasonally ice-free" refers to a scenario where Arctic sea ice extent reaches a minimum during the summer months, potentially allowing for navigation through the Arctic Ocean. The study underscores the complexities and uncertainties inherent in predicting the timing of such a significant milestone. Overall, these updates underscore the dynamic nature of Arctic sea ice and the ongoing challenges in understanding and predicting its behavior. Continued monitoring and research are crucial for better understanding the factors driving Arctic sea ice decline and its implications for the climate system (National Snow and Ice Data Center). Photo by: National Snow and Ice Data Center https://lnkd.in/gzn6RGf7 #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy #seaice #arcticseaice

The recent observations of Antarctic sea ice extent and associated atmospheric conditions provide valuable insights into the current state of the Antarctic sea ice cover: 1. Expansion of Sea Ice: Antarctic sea ice extent expanded slowly in mid-March after reaching its summer minimum extent on February 21. However, the expansion lagged behind many years in the satellite record, ending the month tied with several other years for the third lowest extent. This suggests ongoing variability in Antarctic sea ice conditions. 2. Regional Variability: Sea ice extent is particularly low in certain regions, including the eastern Ross Sea and western Amundsen Sea region, as well as the eastern Bellingshausen Sea. These regions may be experiencing specific atmospheric or oceanic conditions that contribute to reduced sea ice extent. 3. Temperature Anomalies: Air temperatures over much of the sea ice areas have been near-average. However, temperatures have been up to 3 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit) above average in the eastern Ross Sea and western Amundsen Sea region. Conversely, temperatures have been below average off the coast of Adelie Land by about the same amount. These temperature anomalies can influence sea ice dynamics, including melt rates and ice extent. Overall, the recent observations highlight the complex interplay between atmospheric conditions and Antarctic sea ice variability. Understanding the drivers of these variations is crucial for improving our knowledge of Antarctic climate dynamics and their implications for the broader climate system. Continued monitoring and research are essential for better understanding the processes driving Antarctic sea ice variability and its role in the Earth's climate system (National Snow and Ice Data Center). Photo by: National Snow and Ice Data Center https://lnkd.in/gzn6RGf7 #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy

The synthesis conducted by Alexandra Jahn, Jen Kay, and Marika Holland provides valuable insights into our understanding of the timing and regional variability of an ice-free Arctic, as well as the various definitions and projections associated with ice-free conditions. Here are some key takeaways from their review: 1. Definitions of Ice-Free Conditions: The review highlights the use of different definitions for "ice-free" conditions in past studies, such as based on sea ice area or sea ice extent. These variations in definitions can impact the projected timing of ice-free conditions, with ice-free conditions based on sea ice area typically occurring about 10 years prior to those based on sea ice extent. 2. Timing of Ice-Free Conditions: Using sea ice area as a metric, the earliest projections suggest that ice-free conditions in the September monthly average could occur by 2050, but could potentially occur as early as the late 2020s and 2030s under all greenhouse gas emission trajectories. Additionally, ice-free conditions for at least a day in September are expected approximately four years earlier on average than those based on monthly averages. 3. Consistently Ice-Free Conditions: Consistently ice-free September conditions are anticipated to occur by mid-century (2035 to 2067) under all emission trajectories. However, the frequency and duration of ice-free conditions in the Arctic will depend on future emission trajectories, with a possibility of ice-free conditions for nine months of the year by 2100 under high emission scenarios. 4. Future Research Needs: The synthesis underscores the need for future research on the impact of different model selection and refinement methods on sea ice projections, as well as the effects of different lengths of ice-free conditions on the climate system and the Arctic ecosystem. Overall, this synthesis provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of Arctic sea ice loss and its implications for the climate system, highlighting the importance of addressing uncertainties and conducting further research to better understand and mitigate the impacts of a changing Arctic climate (National Snow and Ice Data Center). Photo by: Jahn et al. 2024 https://lnkd.in/gzn6RGf7 #icefreearctic #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy

The statistics regarding Arctic sea ice loss underscore the significant and concerning trend observed over recent decades: 1. Linear Trend in March Sea Ice Extent: Since 1979, there has been a downward linear trend in March sea ice extent, with a loss of approximately 37,000 square kilometers (14,000 square miles) per year. This equates to a decline of 2.4 percent per decade relative to the 1981 to 2010 average. This trend reflects the long-term decrease in Arctic sea ice extent, which has accelerated in recent years due to climate change. 2. Total Loss Since 1979: Since 1979, Arctic sea ice loss in March amounts to approximately 1.68 million square kilometers (649,000 square miles). To put this into perspective, this loss is roughly equivalent to the size of the state of Alaska or the country of Iran. Such a substantial loss of sea ice has profound implications for Arctic ecosystems, climate dynamics, and global climate change. These statistics highlight the rapid and extensive changes occurring in the Arctic region due to climate change. The loss of sea ice has far-reaching consequences, including impacts on wildlife habitats, indigenous communities, weather patterns, and global climate systems. Understanding and addressing the drivers of Arctic sea ice decline are crucial for mitigating its impacts and ensuring the resilience of Arctic ecosystems and communities in the face of ongoing climate change (National Snow and Ice Data Center). Photo by: National Snow and Ice Data Center https://lnkd.in/gzn6RGf7 #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy #arcticseaice #seaice

Who Does Climate Modeling Around The World? Today, we’re diving deep into the world of climate models and the collaborative science behind them. Across the globe, more than two dozen research institutions have dedicated their resources to developing climate models – essential tools for understanding and predicting climate change. In fact, many of these institutions manage and refine multiple models at any given time. https://birchcitadel.com/ https://lnkd.in/gEAerAgV #climatechange #sustainability #earth #nature #renewablenergy #renewables #renewableresource #renewablepower #decarbonization #cleanenergy #cleanpower #greenhousegases #ghg #windpower #windenergy #solar #solarenergy #climatemodeling #climatemodels #climatemodel #climate #scientists #science