Renewable Energy Pulse - Week 5

?? Happy Lunar New Year! ??

As we step into the Year of the Snake, we at Renewable Energy Pulse wish everyone prosperity, success, and a greener future! 2025 is set to be another transformative year for renewable energy and electric mobility. We look forward to sharing the latest developments, innovations, and insights with you throughout the year. Let’s continue to drive change and make sustainable energy the standard! ????

Portugal Leads Europe with 71% Renewable Energy in 2024

Portugal has emerged as a leader in Europe’s clean energy transition, achieving a record-breaking 71% of its electricity demand from renewables in 2024. The country generated 36.7 TWh of renewable electricity, marking an all-time high and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels significantly.

Breakdown of Portugal’s Energy Mix:

• Hydropower: 28% of total electricity consumption (up 24% YoY)
• Wind Power: 27%, maintaining a stable contribution
• Solar Power: 10%, expanding 37% YoY
• Biomass: 6%, ensuring diversification

This remarkable progress has led to a 56% drop in natural gas consumption for electricity generation, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and reducing dependence on imported energy. However, imported electricity still accounted for 20% of the total demand, signaling room for further advancements in energy independence.

Key Drivers of Success:

?? Strategic investments in renewable infrastructure ?? Government commitment to decarbonization ?? Favorable weather conditions boosting hydropower output ?? Rapid expansion of solar power capacity

Portugal’s success is an inspiration for other nations, proving that with the right policies and technological advancements, a renewable-powered grid is not only achievable but also essential for a sustainable future.

?? EV Sales to Top 20 Million in 2025, Research Predicts

According to Rho Motion, global sales of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) will grow by at least 17% in 2025, surpassing 20 million units. This growth is fueled by a mix of government incentives, tightening emission regulations, and more affordable EV models entering the market.

Regional Outlook:

• ???? China: Expected to grow above the previous 17% forecast, continuing its dominance after a record 40% surge in 2024 (11M EVs sold). Government trade-in subsidies will further boost demand.
• ???? Europe: Projected 15% growth, driven by new CO2 emission targets and a broader range of affordable EVs.
• ???? North America: Estimated 16% growth, but long-term uncertainty due to potential policy shifts under the Trump administration.
• ?? Emerging Markets: Chinese-made EVs are gaining market share, with 80% dominance in Latin America and increasing adoption in Asia-Pacific.

Challenges & Risks:

?? EU carmakers face €10 billion in emission fines despite credit purchases from EV makers. ?? A potential 47% drop in EV battery demand by 2040 if US policies roll back electrification incentives.

With 2025 being a pivotal year for EV adoption, the industry is navigating both growth opportunities and regulatory challenges as it moves toward broader electrification.

? Tesla’s V4 Superchargers Boosted to 325 kW in North America

Tesla has increased the maximum power output of its V4 Superchargers from 250 kW to 325 kW, a 30% power boost that will significantly cut charging times for compatible vehicles.

What’s New with V4 Superchargers?

• 325 kW max output (previously 250 kW) ??
• Currently available in North America ??
• 8% of Tesla Superchargers now V4 with more in development ???
• More non-Tesla EVs can benefit from faster charging speeds ?

Who Benefits?

• Tesla Cybertruck (800V battery) will fully utilize the higher speeds.
• Lucid Gravity, Chevrolet Silverado EV, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and other 800V vehicles will also see faster charging.
• Older Tesla models (Model S, 3, X, Y) remain limited to 250 kW due to their 400V architecture.

Expansion Plans:

• Tesla currently has 2,656 Supercharger stations in North America.
• Only 222 locations feature V4 Superchargers, but 103 more are under construction.
• Future V4 cabinets will enable up to 500 kW per stall, improving charging speeds even further.

This upgrade is not just good for Tesla owners—it also benefits the wider EV ecosystem, making fast charging more accessible for all.

?? Looking Ahead in 2025

The rapid pace of clean energy and EV adoption continues to redefine the global energy landscape. From Portugal’s renewable energy leadership to Tesla’s Supercharger expansion, and the EV market’s forecasted growth, it’s clear that 2025 will be another landmark year for sustainability.

Stay tuned for next week’s edition as we continue to track the latest in renewable energy and electric mobility. Wishing everyone a prosperous and green Lunar New Year! ??

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