iPhone Clean Energy Charging: How to Use It

Apple’s introduction of Clean Energy Charging for the iPhone represents a significant stride towards more environmentally conscious technology use. This feature, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of iPhone users, optimizes the charging process to occur during times when the electricity grid is utilizing lower carbon-emission sources.

How Clean Energy Charging Works

• Carbon Emission Forecasting: When you connect your iPhone to a charger, the feature evaluates the carbon emissions of your local energy grid. It then prioritizes charging during periods where cleaner energy production is available.
• Availability and Default Setting: Currently, Clean Energy Charging is only available in the United States. It is enabled by default on iPhones set up or updated to iOS 16.1 and later​​.

Managing Clean Energy Charging

• Settings Adjustment: Users can manage this feature in the ‘Settings’ app under ‘Battery’, then ‘Battery Health & Charging’. Here, you’ll find a toggle specifically for Clean Energy Charging​​.
• Learning Charging Habits: The feature works in tandem with Optimized Battery Charging to learn your charging routines. It activates primarily in locations where you charge your iPhone regularly and for extended periods, like at home or work. However, it won’t engage if your charging habits are inconsistent or you’re in a new place​​.

Setup Requirements

For the feature to function effectively, ensure the following settings are enabled:

1. ‘Clean Energy Charging’ under Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging.
2. ‘Location Services’ in Settings > Privacy & Security.
3. ‘System Customization’ and ‘Significant Locations’ within Location Services > System Services​​.

Overriding Clean Energy Charging

• Lock Screen Override: If you need to charge your iPhone immediately, overriding this feature is possible from the lock screen. When Clean Energy Charging pauses charging, a notification appears on the lock screen. Long-pressing this notification and selecting “Charge Now” allows for an immediate charge​​.

Incorporating Clean Energy Charging into the iPhone’s functionality highlights Apple’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. By optimizing charging times to coincide with lower-emission energy production, iPhone users can contribute to a greener future while maintaining the convenience of their device.