We must become the forest
Turning our top-down energy system bottom-up requires three things, metaphorically speaking: trees, a fungal network, and wood elves
Finally, clean energy for renters
If we can't depend on our centralized energy system, then we must decentralize it. Enter DERs: Distributed Energy Resources. Small power producers and energy storers, dispersed like dandelion fluff across the country. There are even opportunities for renters—finally!—to get in on the action.
We need to upend our energy system in the next 5 years
To power all the data centers coming online, experts believe we need to build 150–200 GW of new electricity generation. Under our longstanding top-down energy system, that will not be possible. But there is an alternative solution.
You're so dense (compliment)
Lithium Ion batteries have become incredibly dense. But what does that mean? Why does it matter? And what's inside those batteries, anyways?
How batteries got dirt cheap
Since the first commercial Lithium Ion battery was made for Sony's handheld camcorder in 1991, the production cost of LI batteries has plummeted more than 99%. How'd that happen? And why are batteries still expensive in the U.S.?
Batteries will save the world
Batteries are the fastest growing clean energy technology today, cheaper and more energy-dense than anyone ever thought possible. But why are they so important? And what will our battery-powered clean energy future look like?
Before you REC yourself...
Renewable Energy Certificates, or RECs, might be your best bet to support clean energy projects. But are RECs worth paying extra? Are they legit? And are they even useful? Let's find out.
How to decode your utility bill
Utility bills are runic texts, impossible to parse without insider knowledge or a well-written blog post. If you've never even really looked at your electric bill, worry not. We can dissect mine together.
The surprising, infuriating way electric utilities make money
It sounds ridiculous, but most electric utility companies don't make money selling you electricity. In fact, many of them don't even produce their own electricity. So what do they do? And how do they end up making millions of dollars in profits every year?
Geothermal gone wild
This week: four more advanced geothermal energy companies vying to save the world from within. Plus, answers to all your questions!
