Does Clean Energy Charging Drain Battery?
Clean Energy Charging is a feature introduced by Apple in iOS 16.1, designed to optimize charging times based on the availability of cleaner energy sources in the power grid. This feature aims to reduce the carbon footprint of device charging by delaying the charging process until cleaner energy is available, particularly during extended charging periods like overnight.
Understanding Clean Energy Charging
– Functionality: Clean Energy Charging pauses charging during periods when the grid relies more on fossil fuels and resumes when cleaner energy is forecasted. This does not change the total amount of energy used but shifts charging times to minimize environmental impact.
– Battery Health: Contrary to concerns raised by some users, Clean Energy Charging does not negatively affect battery health. In fact, it can enhance battery longevity by preventing overheating and reducing unnecessary charge cycles, similar to other optimized charging practices.
Impact on Battery Drain
– No Extra Drain: Clean Energy Charging does not cause additional battery drain. The feature merely adjusts when the device charges, without affecting how much energy is ultimately used. Battery drain primarily results from high-energy activities such as screen usage or running intensive applications, rather than from optimized charging features.
– Potential Benefits: By reducing high-temperature charging sessions and unnecessary charge cycles, Clean Energy Charging may actually help extend the overall lifespan of the battery.
User Control
– Turning Off the Feature: Users can disable Clean Energy Charging if they find its operation inconvenient. This can be done easily through the device’s settings under Battery > Battery Health & Charging.
– Notification System: When Clean Energy Charging is active and suspends charging, users receive a notification indicating when their device will reach full charge, allowing for easy management of charging needs.
Conclusion
In summary, Clean Energy Charging does not drain your battery; it optimizes charging to align with cleaner energy availability without compromising battery health or performance. It may even contribute positively to battery longevity by minimizing heat and excessive charge cycles. Users have the option to disable this feature if they prefer a more traditional charging approach.

Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.