Connect with us

Technology

Climate Solutions Prize unveils 2026 winners

Published

on

Under the theme Innovation in Motion, the Festival brought together leading voices in climate, policy and innovation across seven tracks, with more than $1.5 million in prizes.

MONTREAL, June 12, 2026 /CNW/ – The fourth edition of the Climate Solutions Prize Festival came to a close on the evening of June 9 at the Marché Bonsecours. The event drew 1,500 people to Montreal on June 8 and 9 for two days of talks, panel discussions and pitch events bringing together innovators, investors, industry leaders and policymakers from more than 20 countries and 5 continents. The winners of the four 2026 prizes were revealed at the closing ceremony.

“Climate innovation will not be led by slogans, but by builders. Our finalists are proof of that: their solutions do not ask the market to make a sacrifice. They win because they are faster, cleaner and profitable. Thank you to each of them for bringing that ambition to our stage, and my warmest congratulations to Treetack, TerraFixing, Tydra Labs, Local Energy, BeNat, the National Research Council of Canada and Hyperion, the University of Toronto in collaboration with Xatoms, Pirouz Kian and Sanjay Dube. The real race today is no longer about invention, but about the speed of deployment, and this week, we proved that we can lead it,” said Galith Levy, CEO and co-founder of the Climate Solutions Prize.

From a high-level kickoff to a Shark Tank style finale

Pascale Déry, Quebec’s Minister of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks, officially launched the event, reaffirming the government’s commitment to accelerating the ecological transition through innovation. She was followed by Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Mayor of Montreal, who underscored the city’s key role as an international hub for research and innovation in the service of climate action, as well as the importance of cities on the front lines of environmental challenges.

The program brought together leading voices, including Sage Lenier, climate educator and founder of Sustainable & Just Future, and Bruce Friedrich, founder and CEO of the Good Food Institute. The Honourable Jean Charest, former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada and former Premier of Quebec, spoke with Henry Stern, Senator for the State of California. Their conversation, both clear-eyed and committed, explored a central question: how can democratic institutions respond to the climate emergency in a way that meets today’s challenges? They pointed to the Quebec-California carbon market partnership as an example of how to build sustainable and resilient economies.

The event concluded with a Shark Tank-style pitch competition, where the finalist companies for the Climate Tech Trailblazer Prize defended their solutions before a jury of investors and industry leaders, ahead of the announcement of the winning company at the closing ceremony.

The 2026 winners:

Climate Tech Trailblazer Prize (Canada & Quebec)

Treetack $100,000TerraFixing $100,000Audience choice: Tydra Labs, $25,000

Breakthrough Research Prize

First place : National Research Council of Canada and Hyperion, $250,000Second place : University of Toronto in collaboration with Xatoms, $150,000

Climate Startup Equity Prize, powered by Cycle Momentum – Pre-Seed

BeNat, $150,000

Climate Startup Equity Prize, powered by Cycle Momentum – Seed

Local Energy, $250,000

Student Entrepreneur Innovation Prize

First place : Pirouz Kian, University of Calgary – NanoStrip, $100,000Second place: Sanjay Dube, Memorial University of Newfoundland, $80,000

The Climate Solutions Prize in numbers

The 2026 edition welcomed 1,500 participants, with a 30% increase in prize applications over last year. It featured seven tracks, including three new ones (Nature and Biotechnologies, Resource Technologies, and Energy and Power). Since 2020, the Climate Solutions Prize has awarded more than $12 million in prizes, and its winners have unlocked more than $111 million in follow-on capital.

About the Climate Solutions Prize

Climate Solutions Prize is a climate innovation platform that arms startups and researchers with the funding, global visibility and strategic connections they need to move from proof-of-concept to real-world deployment. It connects climate technology innovators directly with the investors, industry partners, policymakers and decision-makers who can accelerate their path to market. Since 2020, the platform has awarded more than $12 million in prizes, and its winners have unlocked more than $111 million in follow-on capital.

Learn more: climatesolutionsprize.com

SOURCE Climate Solutions Prize

Continue Reading

Technology

Larry Ellison Cancels His Plan to Sell Oracle Stock

Published

on

By

AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Oracle Corporation (NYSE: ORCL) today announced that Larry Ellison, Executive Chair of the Board and Chief Technology Officer, has cancelled his 10b5-1 Plan to sell Oracle stock. No Oracle stock was sold under that plan, and he has no other plans to sell any of his Oracle stock.

About Oracle
Oracle offers integrated suites of applications plus secure, autonomous infrastructure in the Oracle Cloud. For more information about Oracle (NYSE: ORCL), please visit us at www.oracle.com.

Trademarks
Oracle, Java, MySQL, and NetSuite are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. NetSuite was the first cloud company—ushering in the new era of cloud computing.

“Safe Harbor” Statement: Statements in this press release relating to future plans, expectations, beliefs, intentions and prospects, are “forward-looking statements” and are subject to material risks and uncertainties. A detailed discussion of risks that affect our business is contained in our SEC filings, including our most recent reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q, particularly under the heading “Risk Factors.” Copies of these filings are available online from the SEC or by contacting Oracle’s Investor Relations Department at (650) 506-4073 or by clicking on SEC Filings on the Oracle Investor Relations website at www.oracle.com/investor/. All information set forth in this press release is current as of September 12, 2026. Oracle undertakes no duty to update any statement in light of new information or future events.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/larry-ellison-cancels-his-plan-to-sell-oracle-stock-302876875.html

SOURCE Oracle

Continue Reading

Technology

CBE’s 233 MW Kamoa Project Comes Online with AIKO ABC Modules

Published

on

By

YIWU, China, Sept. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CrossBoundary Energy’s (CBE) 233 MW Kamoa solar project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has achieved full-capacity grid connection and entered commercial operation. Completed just 16 months after the power purchase agreement was signed, the project sets a new delivery benchmark for large-scale solar in Africa.

Powered by AIKO’s high-efficiency ABC modules, Kamoa is Africa’s first project to provide round-the-clock baseload power entirely through an integrated solar-plus-storage system. It offers a replicable clean energy solution for mining operations seeking both reliable power and lower carbon emissions.

The project is located next to the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, one of the world’s largest copper mining operations. Remote mines across Africa have traditionally relied on diesel generators to sustain continuous production, leaving operators exposed to fuel-price volatility and increasing carbon-related compliance costs.

Kamoa uses approximately 360,000 AIKO 655 W dual-glass modules in the 66-cell format. With a mass-production efficiency of 24.2%, each module delivers 30 W more power than comparable products of the same format. Their superior temperature coefficient and hotspot suppression performance also support stable generation and system safety under the mine’s hot, high-irradiance conditions.

By combining lower levelized cost of energy with reliable round-the-clock supply, the project replaces conventional diesel generation, reduces energy-price risk and lowers the carbon footprint of Kamoa’s copper production. This strengthens the competitiveness of its products as carbon requirements tighten in international markets.

Over its 30-year lifecycle, Kamoa is expected to generate 7.8 billion kWh of electricity and avoid approximately 78,800 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. As the DRC diversifies beyond its hydropower-dominated energy mix, the project provides a valuable model for integrating renewable power with mining across Africa.

The successful delivery of Kamoa further strengthens AIKO’s position in Africa’s fast-growing solar market. AIKO will continue to advance the global energy transition through high-efficiency technology and long-term value creation.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/cbes-233-mw-kamoa-project-comes-online-with-aiko-abc-modules-302876862.html

Continue Reading

Technology

HVAC Expert Darrin Monks Explains How Dry Air Impacts Indoor Air Quality and Health in Colorado Homes in HelloNation

Published

on

By

The article outlines how humidity control and proper HVAC planning support comfort, efficiency, and healthier indoor environments.

STRASBURG, Colo., Sept. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How does dry Colorado air affect indoor air quality and overall health inside the home? HelloNation has published the answer in an article featuring insights from HVAC Expert Darrin Monks of U.S. Mechanical Company in Strasburg, Colorado.

The HelloNation article explains that indoor air quality is a critical but often overlooked part of home comfort. In Strasburg, Colorado, dry air is common, especially during the winter months. The article notes that low humidity levels can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and may worsen asthma or allergy symptoms.

According to the article, dry air also affects more than personal comfort. It can increase static electricity and cause damage to wood floors, furniture, and musical instruments. Addressing indoor air quality in Strasburg, CO, helps protect both health and household materials throughout the year.

The article describes how the region’s high elevation, cold winters, and naturally low humidity create ongoing challenges. When heating systems run during colder months, they can further reduce indoor moisture levels. This combination often leaves homes feeling colder and less comfortable, even when thermostats are set at normal temperatures.

Managing humidity properly can improve both comfort and HVAC performance. The article explains that many homeowners begin with portable units, but these often provide uneven coverage. A whole-home humidifier offers a more consistent solution by distributing moisture evenly through the HVAC system.

Dry air can also affect equipment efficiency. The article notes that when humidity levels are too low, heating systems may work harder to maintain comfort. This added strain can increase energy use and lead to more frequent HVAC repairs. Integrating a whole-home humidifier with an energy-efficient HVAC setup can reduce wear and support more stable indoor temperatures.

The HelloNation article also highlights the benefits of pairing humidity control with smart thermostat installation in Strasburg. This combination allows homeowners to monitor and adjust both temperature and moisture levels more precisely. Improved control can enhance comfort while supporting lower monthly utility costs.

Beyond dryness, the article addresses airborne particles such as dust and pollen that can accumulate when homes remain closed during winter. Regular HVAC maintenance, including filter replacement and duct cleaning, plays an important role in protecting indoor air quality. A properly maintained HVAC system combined with humidifier installation can promote cleaner air and healthier breathing conditions.

The article emphasizes that children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory concerns may be especially sensitive to poor indoor air quality. Common symptoms of dry air include itchy eyes, sore throats, dry skin, and persistent coughing. Balanced humidity levels can ease these symptoms and create a more supportive indoor environment.

Professional planning is another key theme. The article explains that humidifier installation should be coordinated with properly sized equipment to ensure even air distribution. HVAC installation in Strasburg, CO, performed by experienced contractors helps ensure that all components work together efficiently and reduces the likelihood of future HVAC repair.

Cost considerations are also addressed. While installing a whole-home humidifier or upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system requires upfront investment, the article notes that long-term benefits often include fewer repairs, improved comfort, and lower energy bills. Careful equipment selection and qualified installation support lasting results.

The article concludes that improving indoor air quality through humidity control, routine maintenance, and thoughtful HVAC system design directly supports health and comfort. In Colorado’s dry climate, proactive solutions help homeowners maintain balanced air, protect their homes, and promote well-being year-round.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality: Why Dry Colorado Air Impacts Your Health features insights from Darrin Monks, HVAC Expert of Strasburg, Colorado, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

www.hellonation.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hvac-expert-darrin-monks-explains-how-dry-air-impacts-indoor-air-quality-and-health-in-colorado-homes-in-hellonation-302876442.html

SOURCE HelloNation

Continue Reading

Trending