Energy efficiency

Carbon-free buildings

Software is helping this real estate giant burn less gas in NYC

AvalonBay saved big and cut pollution by outfitting apartments with tech that runs HVAC equipment more efficiently. Now the firm is scaling the strategy nationwide.

By Jeff St. John . 12 May 2026
Energy efficiency

Why are blue states scapegoating energy efficiency?

Energy-efficiency programs yield long-term benefits for utility bills and the climate. We found three reasons why Democrats are looking to cut them anyway.

By Sarah Shemkus . 28 April 2026
Politics

Maryland bill trades cost-saving energy efficiency for short-term relief

Advocates say Maryland lawmakers passed energy proposals, including one on nuclear subsidies, without adequate analysis or public debate during the 2026 session.

By Aman Azar . 23 April 2026
Solar

What to know before you get balcony solar

States are starting to embrace plug-and-play solar. Get up to speed on the cost, payback, and safety bona fides of the systems before they hit shelves near you.

By Alison F. Takemura . 17 April 2026
Heat pumps

Bay Area startup introduces flat-rate, single-room heat pumps

Merino Energy says its through-the-wall heat pumps are faster to install than ductless systems. They’ll be available for $3,800 — installation included.

By Alison F. Takemura . 7 April 2026
Heat pumps

Did fake comments sink SoCal clean heat rules? Advocates want answers.

Last year, Southern California regulators rejected rules that would have phased down gas heaters after an industry-tied campaign generated 20,000+ critical comments.

By Alison F. Takemura . 16 March 2026
Climatetech finance

Span looks to cut smart panel costs with $75M Eaton partnership

The leading U.S. smart-panel startup and the global electrical-equipment giant team up on digital controls for home batteries, EV chargers, and electric appliances.

By Jeff St. John . 9 March 2026
Heat pumps

Oregon pushes new homes to install heat pumps over ACs

In a state where energy costs have risen sharply, new rules will boost adoption of the clean heating and cooling appliances.

By Alison F. Takemura . 5 March 2026
Energy efficiency

Massachusetts energy bill would make big cuts to energy efficiency

Advocates say the energy affordability measure is strong but for a proposed $1 billion reduction to efficiency programs that would undermine the sector without lowering bills.

By Sarah Shemkus . 27 February 2026
Utilities

Ohio corruption trial traces tactics to prop up nuclear and coal plants

Former FirstEnergy execs Chuck Jones and Mike Dowling face state criminal charges connected to HB 6 bailout maneuvers, for which Ohioans are still paying the price.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 27 February 2026