Barcelona taps its subway system to generate clean energy

Barcelona is transforming its subway system into a power source by using regenerative braking technology to fuel electric trains, station facilities, and even EV chargers across the city.

Natalie Donback reports for Grist.

In short:

Barcelona’s subway generates electricity from regenerative braking, powering trains and EV chargers in the city’s MetroCHARGE project.
The system will reduce CO2 emissions by 3.9 metric tons annually, with plans to power 41% of trains with this tech by September’s end.
Other cities, like New York, are exploring similar methods but face challenges, including retrofitting costs and complex stakeholder involvement.

Key quote:

“There’s so much energy that’s not being used, and not only is it lost, it also generates heat.”

— Jordi Picas, director of Metro Systems, TMB

Why this matters:

This forward-thinking approach not only cuts down on energy waste but also feeds into a growing network of EV chargers, helping the city’s broader push for sustainable transit. With urban centers increasingly looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, Barcelona’s model shows how green innovation can work in ways we might not even notice as we rush to catch the next train. Read more: The climate crisis demands a move away from car dependency.

grist.org

Barcelona taps its subway system to generate clean energy

Trump’s cuts have exposed US to ‘cascade’ of El Niño dangers, experts warn

‘Hybrid weapon of war’: Why climate disinformation could be a growing public health threat

New Mexico off track for 2030 greenhouse gas goal, environment official says

Why whales are climate heroes — who also need our protection

As extreme heat worsens, renters are gaining a 'right to cooling'

Alaska Senate candidates rarely mention climate change, but they talk a lot about fish

Conservative climate movement faces a blue wave wipeout

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.