Elena Berryman and Jordon Brown 1 minute read # This week’s good climate news Published: June 30, 2023 ![A sprawling field of solar panels as far as the eye can see](/sites/default/files/styles/1440px_width_scale/public/2023-07/TX%20Solar%20Energy%20Canva.jpg?itok=UeNjH8aE) ## Solar spares Texas grid Amid scorching temperatures, clean power [helped Texas maintain energy reliability and prevent rolling blackouts](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jun/28/texas-heatwave-power-grid-solar-energy). Because the state doubled its solar capacity since early 2022, solar played a key role, accounting for a significant portion of Texas’ energy supply during the heatwave. Solar, which is particularly effective when it’s sunny out, has made up over 15% of the afternoon energy supply in Texas. --- ![A baby orca just as it is cresting out of the water swimming next to a larger orca. Are they on their way to sink a yacht? Who's to say.](/sites/default/files/styles/1440px_width_scale/public/2023-07/New%20baby%20orca%20Canva.jpg?itok=e4EK3aB-) ## New baby orca born to endangered pod Scientists reported what looks to be the birth of a [baby orca to an endangered killer whale population](https://apnews.com/article/orca-baby-killer-whale-endangered-pacific-northwest-f3ba706b5466b281fd30509621a2d038) known as the southern resident orcas in the Pacific Northwest. The new calf would bring the pod’s population count — which has fallen to one of its lowest since 1974 — to 74. The apparent calf, found swimming near British Columbia, Canada would be first one born to this pod since 2021. --- ![ A Joshua tree in the desert as the sun rises behind it on the horizon](/sites/default/files/styles/1440px_width_scale/public/2023-07/Joshua%20Tree%20Protections%20Canva.jpg?itok=A2ZlkdQh) ## Joshua trees receive unique protection California lawmakers passed the [Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jun/28/california-protect-joshua-trees-conservation), permanently protecting the iconic plant (not the U2 album of the same name). The legislation, which aims to address climate threats, establishes a conservation plan and a fund for the species' protection. This marks the first time a California law has focused on safeguarding a climate-threatened species. --- ![A bus making a turn through a crosswalk on a New York City street](/sites/default/files/styles/1440px_width_scale/public/2023-07/NY%20Congestion%20Pricing%20Canva.jpg?itok=RY00P-gM) ## New York launches landmark congestion pricing program A plan to [cut traffic, improve public transportation and reduce air pollution in New York City](https://www.edf.org/media/new-yorks-landmark-congestion-pricing-program-receives-final-federal-approval) is moving forward with its final approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Over $1 billion per year will be raised from congestion pricing, and 100% of those funds will go directly toward improving subways, buses and trains used by millions each day. 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