Powering a population using 100 percent renewable energy seems like a lofty goal. However, nations and cities have proven it is possible. Georgetown became one of the first American cities to commit to being entirely dependent on renewables this week, while Denmark powered the entire country using wind energy for a day. It is easy to imagine the impact large contributors like this can have, but what about individuals? It might feel insignificant, but you can make an impact on the environment every single day! Finally, new developments and enhanced appeal might help electric vehicles enter mainstream markets.

What news have you been reading this week? Share with us @GreentownLabs!

Statesman– Georgetown Now 100 Percent Powered by Renewable Energy

• Popular D.C. burrow Georgetown has become one of the first cities to be powered entirely by renewable energy. The cities long-term power contract was terminated in 2012 and the city has spent the last few years looking for alternatives. Georgetown was able to find green power suppliers from around the country and now serves as a pinnacle of American sustainability. 

  “It’s a great economic development tool because there’s a lot of high-quality companies in this country that have robust green energy policies.”

Futurism– Denmark Just Ran Their Entire Country on 100% Wind Energy

• Recently, Denmark achieved a sustainability goal that few countries have been able to conquer. On a particularly windy day, the nations turbines generated enough electricity to power the entire country for a day. The singular source of energy generated enough power to provide 10 million homes with electricity. 

Forbes– 9 Things You Can Do About Climate Change

• Despite the emerging presence of clean technology and increased awareness about climate change, many people still wonder “what can I actually do to help?” While living a green life may seem insignificant in the scope of global environmental concerns, it only takes one to start a movement. If sustainability is something you are passionate about, follow these steps to be part of the solution.

“But while we’re feeling powerless, are we overlooking personal actions that can further our goals?”

The New York Times– How to Have a Green Vacation

• With summer only a few months away, many are starting to plan their vacations. When organizing your trip, make sure to keep the environment in mind. These steps can help you have a green vacation without extraneous effort. Sit back, relax and sleep well knowing you made sustainable decisions this summer.

“Being greener on vacation doesn’t take a lot of effort or mean sacrificing pleasure.”

NBC News– Could This Be the Battery That Revolutionizes Our Cars and Phones?

• Legendary inventor John Goodenough revealed his most impressive work yet earlier this week. His new battery (also attributed with creating the lithium-ion battery) is much more efficient, safe and reliable. The innovation can have endless applications and can enable electric vehicles to run on a charge for much longer. The battery could be the spark the electric auto industry needs to enter the mainstream. 

“Cost, safety, energy density, rates of charge and discharge and cycle life are critical for battery-driven cars to be more widely adopted.” 

Forbes– This New Electric Sports Car Goes Up to 160 MPH

• Who said electric vehicles couldn’t be fun to drive? Duboc Motors of Canada has released their plan to develop a battery fueled car that can reach 160 miles per hour. The exotic looking car packs all the punch of traditional sport cars without generating pollution.

“Tomahawk is sporty and looks like a full-size Matchbox car.”

Engadget– Tesla’s New Solar Energy Station Will Power Hawaii at Night

• Tesla continues to establish itself as a leader in the renewable energy movement. New plans reveal their intention to power Hawaii with stored solar energy during nighttime. The combination of the other states renewable energy generating resources and solar storage could help the group of islands become almost entirely dependent on clean energy.

“This is the first time that solar energy can be delivered very reliably into the night. That’s the key to scaling renewable energies up.”