Emissions reduction

Green steel

Ohio steel giant aims to use Biden climate funds for polluting project

Cleveland-Cliffs got $500M for a big green-steel push. Under Trump, the firm is “rescoping” to work that perpetuates coal use and will boost local pollution.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 6 August 2026

Steel plant seen from a distance behind a chain link fence — Cleveland-Cliffs’ Middletown Works in Middletown, Ohio, in September 2024 (Madeleine Hordinski for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Solar

Solar is having its best summer yet in Europe

It was the EU’s top power source in early summer, generating a record 25% of electricity. The clean energy boom is likely to accelerate further from here.

By Dan McCarthy . 24 July 2026
Nuclear

Nuclear energy could be in for a big decade

The global fleet of nuclear power plants is poised to expand quickly as climate goals, security concerns, and rising demand renew interest in the energy source.

By Dan McCarthy . 17 July 2026
Green steel

Hyundai’s new steel mill sparks hopes and fears in Louisiana

The manufacturer is building a $6 billion facility that will use cleaner technology — and potentially green hydrogen. But residents question whether they will benefit.

By Maria Gallucci . 25 June 2026
Emissions reduction

California makes controversial change to cap-and-invest program

Air regulators say the new plan balances industry needs and environmental goals — but critics worry that the state has just undermined its own emissions targets.

By Jeff St. John . 1 June 2026
Emissions reduction

New York state gives up on its most ambitious climate targets

Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat up for reelection in November, pushed hard to water down the state’s 2019 climate law. With a new budget vote, she’s succeeded.

By Ysabelle Kempe . 27 May 2026
Emissions reduction

California cap-and-invest proposal would threaten state climate goals

Changes suggested by state regulators could put 2030 emissions goals out of reach and shift billions of dollars from state programs to polluters, critics say.

By Jeff St. John . 20 May 2026
Electrification

Bay Area looks to exempt some households from gas water-heater phaseout

The region is finalizing its first-in-the-nation rule to limit the sale of polluting gas water heaters, which will take effect next year.

By Alison F. Takemura . 20 May 2026
Green steel

Europe’s quest for green steel

Facing new regulations and stiff competition from China, Sweden and other EU countries are racing to decarbonize steel production. It all hinges on green hydrogen.

By Paul Tullis . 7 May 2026
Emissions reduction

Can a carbon price lower power bills? Virginia is betting yes.

With power demand from data centers skyrocketing, the state is rejoining a regional climate initiative.

By Jake Bittle . 5 May 2026
Electrification

These Palo Alto kids are pushing the city to promote induction stoves

Middle and high school students in the California town are urging officials to tell residents about the harms of gas stoves and the benefits of cleaner cooking.

By Alison F. Takemura . 6 April 2026