Worldwatch Institute

Through research and outreach that inspire action, the Worldwatch Institute works to accelerate the transition to a sustainable world that meets human needs. The Institute’s top mission objectives are universal access to renewable energy and nutritious food, expansion of environmentally sound jobs and development, transformation of cultures from consumerism to sustainability, and an early end to population growth through healthy and intentional childbearing.

U.S. Army engineers are leading research on tactical microgrids to deliver more efficient power to Soldiers across combat zones. These microgrids are designed and built to provide power independently of traditional grids and to integrate multiple sources of energy for use and storage. (image via US Army RDECOM)

Editor's Pick, Featured, Green Computers and Internet, Green Living, Smart Grid August 15, 2013

Microgrids Get Big Test In Connecticut

Connecticut’s plans for nine microgrid projects are aimed at ensuring electricity grid resilience and reliability during severe weather events.

Solar is making its way to the battlefield – here as part of a water purification system in Afghanistan – but the much bigger use is to power domestic bases and other facilities, including housing. (image via U.S. Marines)

Editor's Pick, Featured, Renewable Energy, Solar Power, Wind Power July 31, 2013

Global Solar, Wind Energy Growth Continues To Impress

Solar and wind continue to dominate investment in new renewable capacity, with global use of them growing significantly in 2012.

Electric Vehicles, Transportation July 6, 2013

Chinese Electric Vehicle Industry Not Meeting Targets

Even with prioritization by China’s central government, the electric vehicle industry in this large nation does not seem to be on track to meet its targets.

Electric Vehicles, Transportation June 10, 2013

How Electric Cars Are Doing In China

Despite progress, the Chinese government and automobile industry are still far from a full blossoming of the domestic EV market.

Editor's Pick, Featured, Green Gadgets & Design, Green Living, Renewable Energy, Solar Power May 6, 2013

Solar Lamp Countries And The Developing World

Small solar portable lamp companies are learning how to navigate the relatively unstructured business environments of developing countries.

Renewable Energy, Solar Power April 9, 2013

Chinese Solar Giant Collapse Should Offer Pause For Reflection

As the market cuts out the least efficient firms, as with Suntech, a healthier and more mature solar industry will emerge.

Renewable Energy, Solar Power April 5, 2013

Healthy Solar Industry Will Emerge From Failures

An industry-wide consolidation will cut out the least efficient firms, like Suntech, leaving a healthier and more mature solar industry that will continue to grow.

A barge for the Lake Kivu KivuWatt project in Rwanda (image via Rwandan government)

Geothermal Power, Renewable Energy March 12, 2013

Methane Gas Project An Exploding Energy Source In Rwanda

An innovative energy project on Africa’s 2,700 square kilometer Lake Kivu is generating electricity in a region beset by both geochemical and geopolitical instability.