Climate finance and carbon markets expand despite political resistance, driven by major investments from New York State, Google, and Microsoft. Meanwhile, Trump’s policy shifts disrupt U.S. climate efforts and strain global cooperation.

A shift from climate pledges to action is taking shape, with Microsoft’s $800M carbon removal deal and Apple’s plan to cut emissions 60% by 2030. At the same time, fusion progress from TAE signals rising momentum for next-gen clean energy.

AI is increasingly used to accelerate clean energy deployment, with Google addressing grid delays. But the IEA warns AI’s emission impact depends on how it’s managed—offering both opportunity and risk for the global energy system.

A sharp policy shift is underway as new U.S. tariffs threaten clean tech supply chains, a major climate fund is dismantled, and international climate aid is withdrawn—signaling a coordinated rollback with far-reaching global consequences.

The UN’s expansion of Paris crediting rules, major fusion breakthroughs, and Airbus’s hydrogen aircraft push reflect a global shift from climate policy to tech-driven solutions—signaling steady momentum for innovation-led climate action.

The EU unveiled decarbonization plans for steel and metals, while over $900M was pledged to clean energy at the SEforALL Forum. Beyond Aero also advanced hydrogen-electric jet tech, signaling growing momentum in green aviation.

Trump’s EPA move to cancel $20B in climate funding sparks backlash, while Big Tech backs a major North American nuclear push. Northvolt files for bankruptcy amid market strain, as Florida sees a surprising surge in solar power growth.

The U.S. exits the UN climate fund, raising concerns over global financing for adaptation. Japan unveils new corporate sustainability rules, while Microsoft signs a carbon removal deal in India to expand its efforts in emerging markets.

Texas and Germany revisit nuclear energy as part of long-term transition strategies, signaling a shift in policy tone. Blackstone launches a $5.6B climate fund targeting clean infrastructure. Meanwhile, global investment in hydrogen storage continues to accelerate.

Nuclear is resurging, clean hydrogen and carbon removal tech are advancing, and power demand is rising beyond AI. While clean energy grows, policy uncertainty and social equity remain key hurdles in the global transition underway in February 2025.

Battery safety, storage investment, and metals access are in focus as energy demand grows. Trump-era policies disrupt EVs, wind, and climate funding, while firms pursue clean tech, AI-driven solar, and carbon solutions across global markets.

Last week’s climate tech trends included rising clean energy investments, AI and grid innovation, nuclear momentum, and critical mineral demand. Yet, policy pushback, aviation emissions, and climate risk to housing show mounting challenges ahead.

Fusion startup Helion raised $425M; Microsoft, Meta, and BBC advanced solar and net-zero goals. As Trump paused federal renewables, global investments surged with major deals across Europe, Asia, and North America shaping the climate tech landscape.

Solar-powered AI hubs, battery gains, and geothermal cooling lead this week’s innovation wave. As fossil fuels rise under Trump, Japan and Ukraine champion clean energy. Global climate investment shifts, with AI demand reviving nuclear and reshaping priorities.

Clean energy investment hit $670B, topping oil and gas, while data center demand drives nuclear and ammonia tech. The U.S. granted $6B in tax credits, Europe backed green hydrogen and wind, and Google, Shell, and Microsoft boosted carbon credit purchases.

Looking back on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude. What began as a small idea to support startups grew into something meaningful—connecting founders with the right people. Thanks to all the inspiring individuals and generous speakers who made 2024 so special.

Clean hydrogen gets a major U.S. policy boost, while AI, geothermal, and green hydrogen steel lead 2025’s climate tech trends. Investment surges in clean iron, nuclear, and grid-scale geothermal, as global supply challenges and political shifts shape the energy transition.

In the Dec 22 webinar, Robert F. Parker from the Maryland Clean Energy Center shared key insights for early-stage climate tech companies entering the U.S. market. He emphasized local resource use, funding strategies, and navigating the evolving capital landscape to scale clean energy innovation.

Welcome to this week’s edition of the CBKNY Weekly News Highlights.

We bring you the latest updates, insights, and innovations in the world of climate technology. Here's what made headlines this week.

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