Low-carbon economy

Too much renewable power? A German engineer comes up with a way to store excess renewable energy, take pressure off the grid and ease the way for the adoption of more wind and solar power in a country that’s already way ahead of most of the rest of us.

Energy-saving, environmentally friendly devices are starting to work their way into the consumer market, and many were on display at this year’s Consumer Electronics Shows. But to make sure they sell, their manufacturers are leaving the efficiency out of their sales pitches.

If you support urgent action on climate change, you might be forgiven for feeling cynical about the recent UN Climate Summit in New York. For years, governments have pledged to take strong measures, but 2013 was a record year for greenhouse gas emissions across the globe. But at least one climate activist is feeling hopeful.

Farmers around Pennsylvania, and indeed around the country are increasingly taking the money they make opening their land up to fracking and investing in renewable energy. Specifically, a number of farmers have chosen to plow their windfall into solar panels.

After passing the United States as the top carbon emitter, one researcher says China’s now making a commitment to reduce the country’s carbon output. But in order for China to reduce large amounts of CO2, they say, the U.S. will need to do more.