ASC's Intersections Newsletter — March 21st, 2025
Nora’s Note
New Power Couples. Data centers, the backbone of our digital world, are notorious for their massive energy consumption. Traditionally, they've relied heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to environmental concerns. However, a groundbreaking strategy is emerging: pairing clean energy sources with rarely used peaker plants to power these data hubs.
This approach involves integrating renewable energy, such as solar and wind, with limited-use peaker plants—facilities that can quickly ramp up electricity production during peak demand periods. This hybrid model not only ensures a steady power supply but also significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with data center operations.
Implementing this strategy requires collaboration between tech companies, energy providers, and policymakers to develop infrastructure that supports seamless integration of these energy sources. This innovative solution may help move us in the direction of sustainability in energy tech with the possibility of meeting growing digital demands while prioritizing environmental responsibility.
Transportation
California, New York Affirm Commitment to Green Transportation. Despite federal uncertainties, California continues to push initiatives like the Clean Mobility Options (CMO) program, allocating up to $1.5 million to providing electric transportation services connecting residents to essential destinations like healthcare facilities and grocery stores. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is investing $500 million to help schools transition to electric vehicles offering up to $2,400 per plug to enhance charging infrastructure, particularly in multifamily housing, workplaces, and underserved communities. Read more about these green transportation programs. (Source: GovTech)
Mass Transit: CALSTART’s 2025 ZEB report shows U.S. transit agencies continue to adopt zero-emission vehicles
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Pittsburgh Regional Transit is encouraging public transit etiquette—with a misbehaving pickle
EIN News: Mass Transit Security Market to hit $54.7 billion by 2035, enhancing public transport security industry outlook
Climate
Maryland grants $10M for clean energy in higher education. This March, the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) announced eleven colleges and universities across the state will receive $10 million in grants to bring clean energy infrastructure to their campuses. As part of MEA’s Higher Education Clean Energy Grant Pilot Program, the funds will be used to incorporate sustainability into campuses. The $10 million in grants will help save about 2,700 metric tons of CO2 emissions across the State per year. Read more about the pilot program. (Source: GovTech)
Inside Climate News: Colorado will require oil and gas companies to increase water recycling for fracking
Canary Media: The smell of toasted rock could spell victory for geothermal energy
Grist: The wildlife all around us is doing fascinating things. Are you noticing?
Economic Development
NYC sees record-breaking 33,974 new homes completed in 2024, highest since 1965. This surge in development is a strong driver of economic growth, generating jobs in construction and related industries while also increasing housing supply in a city facing affordability challenges. Brooklyn and Queens led the way, followed by Long Island City–Hunters Point. While completions reached record levels, the decline in new housing permits, from 16,428 in 2023 to 15,626 in 2024, raises concerns about sustaining this pace in the future. Read more to learn about the record-breaking development. (Source: Queens News)
Gothamist: Meow Wolf, the popular interactive art experience, is coming to NYC
Harlem World: The New York Community Trust announces $8.3M in grants to meet critical community needs
Axios: 5 years later: How the pandemic “supercharged” the housing market
Digital
Amtrak’s revamped app makes it easier to find your train status. Amtrak rolled out a revamped app designed to make finding train statuses easier and travel less stressful. The update brings a cleaner, more intuitive interface, so passengers can check departures, track delays, and navigate stations without guesswork. Real-time updates makes ticket management simpler and the riding experience smoother. Read more the app refresh is part of a larger push to make train travel as convenient as possible. (Source: The Verge)
Route Fifty: How LA is using tech to get wildfire victims financial help
Forbes: 4 ways marketers can use AI agents now
TechCrunch: Spotify launches a program to publish audiobooks from independent authors
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