The Current

Why Bill McKibben thinks solar energy could save the world

Nov 25, 2025
Bill McKibben, a renowned author and climate activist, discusses his hopeful vision for solar energy as a solution to climate change. He highlights the astonishing growth of solar power and its plummeting costs, particularly noting China's massive installations. McKibben emphasizes the importance of electrification in daily life, transforming it into a series of improvements rather than sacrifices. He also explores how solar technology is reshaping economies in developing countries, urging optimism in human creativity and compassion to face climate challenges.
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INSIGHT

Solar, Wind And Batteries Are The Game Changer

  • Cheap, scalable solar and wind plus batteries are the first effective tools to cut emissions at scale.
  • Bill McKibben says this combination creates a real path out of the climate crisis even though warming can't be fully stopped.
INSIGHT

China Is Driving A Rapid Solar Surge

  • The solar energy rollout accelerated dramatically in the last 36 months, driven heavily by China.
  • McKibben highlights China installing gigawatts of solar daily as evidence of unprecedented speed.
ANECDOTE

Australia's Three Hours Of Free Electricity

  • Australia now has so much solar power that the federal government will give every household three free hours of electricity each afternoon starting January 1st.
  • McKibben uses this to show how abundant, low-cost solar can change daily life and charging habits.
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