This past week, record-breaking temperatures swept across the Midwest and Northeast of the US, putting tens of millions of Americans under heat advisories. As demand for air conditioning surged, the electricity grid struggled to keep up in some areas, leading to the firing up of heavily polluting “peaker plants”. In Texas, the oil and gas industry reported record levels of production amid the scorching heat.
The extreme temperatures were attributed to a “heat dome” caused by greenhouse gases trapping hot air in place. New York City Mayor Eric Adams warned of more frequent and intense heat due to climate change. This comes amid the stark warnings from UN Secretary General António Guterres about the urgent need for climate action.
While China has been rapidly investing in renewable energy, the US lags behind. Political opponents and the fossil fuel industry have hindered significant progress in clean energy initiatives. However, attitudes among American consumers are shifting towards a quick transition away from fossil fuels.
Despite pushback from some Republican politicians, the urgency of the climate crisis remains. The upcoming US presidential election could further impact America’s energy transition and emissions targets.