NewzIntel.com

Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI USA: Connecticut’s First Pediatric DBS for Epilepsy: A New Era in Care

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    A partnership between Connecticut Children’s and UConn Health is working to change that. Together, the health systems now offer deep brain stimulation (DBS) for pediatric epilepsy. Several months ago, Bella became the first patient to have the surgery at Connecticut Children’s.

    It marked a milestone for pediatric health care in Connecticut. For families and children facing treatment-resistant epilepsy, it marked something even bigger: hope.

    “We want nothing more than a world where Bella doesn’t have seizures,” her dad says. “And we believe in the people who can help us get there.”

    A rare and relentless diagnosis

    Bella was born with cerebral palsy, so she has always had to navigate health challenges — and thrive anyway. She’s learned to walk with assistance, to communicate in her own expressive way, and to embrace every moment with her tight-knit family. Her parents, Chris and Jaime, have focused on giving her and her older sister a life full of joy and adventure.

    “You get one spin, right?” says Chris. “Spin it to win it.”

    For the past three years, though, Bella’s bright life has been clouded by seizures. At first, they didn’t even seem like seizures — just a flutter of her eyes, a brief freeze mid-sentence. But they kept happening. At Connecticut Children’s, Bella was diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), an especially difficult-to-treat form of epilepsy that typically begins in childhood. By middle school, she was having as many as five seizures a day.

    Unpredictable daily seizures take a huge toll: Every moment becomes a matter of safety. You can’t go on vacation without worrying that there’s a qualified hospital nearby. You can’t go on a walk alone. You can’t sit in a hard chair without worrying about falling.

    Bella and Dr. Lila Worden, Connecticut Children’s (photo credit: Connecticut Children’s)

    On top of that, LGS comes with an even heavier burden: The seizures themselves can interfere with learning.

    “LGS affects not only seizure control but learning and quality of life,” explains Lila Worden, MD, Bella’s neurologist at Connecticut Children’s. “And for this type of epilepsy, medications aren’t always effective. Sometimes they come with significant side effects, too.”

    Unfortunately, that was the case for Bella. “None of the medications we tried really worked,” Chris says. “And Bella just didn’t feel like herself.”

    But when medical options for epilepsy fall short, experts are finding that surgical options — like DBS — can make a difference.

    A groundbreaking option for kids with epilepsy

    Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is already widely used for adults with conditions like Parkinson’s disease and tremor. Each year, researchers are adding new uses to the list, like for obsessive-compulsive disorder, dystonia and depression.

    For epilepsy, DBS has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures by 50 to 70 percent over time — a life-changing difference for kids like Bella.

    “It’s not a cure,” says Worden, “but even a 50 percent reduction means fewer falls. More seizure-free days. More time just being a kid.”

    Still, many families don’t know about DBS, or how to see if it’s right for their child. Despite strong evidence of its safety and efficacy, DBS is technically considered “off-label” for patients under 18 — which means it can be hard to access.

    For all these reasons, pediatric neurosurgeon David Hersh, MD, had long envisioned a DBS program for Connecticut Children’s.

    “For patients like Bella who have failed multiple medications and where we can’t pinpoint the seizures to a specific region of the brain, DBS becomes a really important option,” Hersh says. “We wanted to be able to offer that at Connecticut Children’s, to give families the full spectrum of surgical options for epilepsy.”

    Dr. Chris Conner, UConn Health with Bella (photo credit: Connecticut Children’s)

    He knew it would take an immense amount of work to get a DBS program up and running — that didn’t intimidate him. He also knew it would take a partner with extensive DBS experience. That’s when UConn Health’s Christopher Conner, MD, entered the picture.

    As a fellowship-trained functional neurosurgeon, Dr. Conner specializes in surgical techniques like DBS; he trained with one of the world’s premier functional neurosurgeons. A few years ago, he arrived at UConn Health with a plan to bring the treatment to Connecticut’s adult population. He hadn’t expected the chance to bring it to kids — until he met Dr. Hersh.

    “One day we were at a department meeting, and this nice guy from Connecticut Children’s introduced himself,” Conner recalls. “He said, ‘Want to do DBS in kids?’ And I said yes.”

    You’re not picking Coke or Pepsi with your dinner — you’re picking brain surgery. But we trusted the team. We asked, ‘If this were your daughter, what would you do?’  Chris, Bella’s Dad

    Innovation, together

    Neurosurgeons Dr. David Hersh, CT Children’s and Dr. Chris Conner, UConn Health perform DBS surgery.

    DBS treatment begins with a surgery to implant two electrodes deep in a patient’s brain. These electrodes connect to a small device in the chest that sends electrical signals to help regulate the brain’s activity. It works a bit like a pacemaker — except instead of targeting the heart, it targets the brain, in this case to reduce seizures. From that point on, a patient’s follow-up care involves routine, typically non-invasive visits where their neurologist simply monitors and adjusts their device settings.

    When Hersh introduced the idea to Bella’s family, he walked them through every detail. He was upfront: While Conner had done many of these procedures, this would be the first as part of the Connecticut Children’s team.

    Chris and Jamie did their own research. They weighed the risks and possibilities. They thought about the team they’d come to know over Bella’s years at Connecticut Children’s.

    “You’re not picking Coke or Pepsi with your dinner — you’re picking brain surgery,” Chris says. “But we trusted the team. We asked, ‘If this were your daughter, what would you do?’ And they gave us honest, detailed answers. They believed it could help Bella. We believed in them.”

    Behind the scenes, the team got to work. Equipment was transferred from UConn Health. Connecticut Children’s surgical staff was trained on DBS protocols. The OR team even held dress rehearsals.

    “We practiced everything — every handoff, every movement,” says Conner. “By the time we were in the room with Bella, it didn’t look like the first time. It looked like the twentieth.”

    Bella, with Dr. David Hersh, Connecticut Childrens (photo credit: Connecticut Children’s)

    “It was a huge team effort,” Hersh agrees. “Anesthesiology, neurology, surgical techs, nursing, the device manufacturer — everyone came together.”

    In December, Bella became the first pediatric patient to receive DBS at Connecticut Children’s. Just a few days later, another child followed. The program had begun.

    Early signs of progress

    Bella is still in the early stages of treatment. At regular neurology follow-ups, Dr. Worden gradually increases the settings on her DBS device — a process that takes 12 months or longer to reach full effect.

    But already, the difference is noticeable.

    “Every bit of improvement means more good days,” Worden says. “For a child with epilepsy, that means the world.”

    Bella’s had fewer seizures, and they’re less severe. Simply being able to ease off some of her anti-seizure medications has been a relief, bringing her personality back to its full shine. She’s the kind of kid who hugs every “Mimi” she sees at her sister’s lacrosse game, assuming every grandma in the stands could use a little love.

    “Now we can say we’ve done it, and we can do it safely – for kids like Bella, that changes everything,” Dr. Chris Conner,  Neurosurgeon, UConn Health

    “She’s the single purest human you’ll ever meet,” Chris says. “She makes us all better.”

    And now, Bella has a new title: pioneer. As the first DBS patient at Connecticut Children’s, she’s opened the door for other children with drug-resistant epilepsy to find relief.

    That’s the promise of this treatment — and the reason Connecticut Children’s and UConn Health came together to build a pediatric DBS program.

    “Now we can say we’ve done it, and we can do it safely,” says Conner. “For kids like Bella, that changes everything.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Health, Workforce, and Education Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 26-3, provides $197 in discretionary funding.

    “To address Maine’s shortage of health care professionals, we must invest in workforce development programs, provide support for students in lower-income communities seeking higher education, and increase access to affordable child care,” said Senator Collins. “This bill would provide support in each of these areas, as well as make targeted investments into life-saving research on Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, and tick-borne diseases. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    Bill Highlights:

    Local Projects: $112.4 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine.

    Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):

    National Institutes of Health (NIH): $48.7 billion for NIH, an increase of $400 million, including:

    • $100 million increase for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research.
    • $150 million increase for the National Cancer Institute, including $28 million for the Childhood Cancer STAR Act.
    • $50 million increase for women’s health research.
    • $25 million increase for ALS research.
    • $19 million increase for rare disease research.
    • $10 million increase for diabetes research.
    • $6 million increase for mental health research.

    Alzheimer’s: In addition to NIH funding, the bill provides $41.5 million for CDC Alzheimer’s disease activities, as well as:

    • Language urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to reconsider Medicare’s National Coverage Determination policy for FDA-approved Alzheimer’s disease therapies.
    • $31.5 million for the Administration for Community Living’s (ACL) Alzheimer’s Disease Program, including $2 million for the National Alzheimer’s Call Center, which provides 24/7/365 telephone support, crisis counseling, care consultation, and referral services for persons with Alzheimer’s disease, their family members, and informal caregivers.

    NIH Indirect Costs: Maintains language prohibiting changes to indirect cost rates. In February, Senator Collins announced her opposition to the proposed 15 percent cap on indirect costs, which are usually negotiated between NIH and the grant recipient. In April, Senator Collins chaired the first full Committee hearing with a focus on the importance of biomedical research. At Senator Collins’ invitation, Dr. Hermann Haller, President of the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory, provided testimony on how the proposed NIH cap would affect biomedical research occurring in Maine and at institutions across the country. At a June hearing to review the FY 2026 budget request for NIH, Senator Collins questioned NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya on the proposed cap on indirect costs.

    Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: $9 million for CDC Muscular Dystrophy activities.

    Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease: $27 million for CDC Lyme activities and $64.6 million for vector-borne diseases to support continued implementation of Senator Collins’ Kay Hagan Tick Act. The bill also includes $110 million for NIH Lyme and tick-borne disease research.

    Substance Use Disorders: $1.6 billion for the State Opioid Response Grants; $1.9 billion for the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant; and $145 million for the Rural Communities Opioid Response program to support efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders. In 2024, there were an estimated 80,391 drug overdose deaths.

    Health Workforce Programs: $303.5 million for Title VIII Nursing Workforce programs and $48.2 million for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Geriatric workforce education programs, which include the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program and Geriatric Academic Career Awards.

    Building Communities of Recovery: $17 million for Building Communities of Recovery grants through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

    SIREN Rural EMS: $13.5 million for SAMHSA’s Rural Emergency Medical Services Training and equipment program.

    Lifespan Respite Care: $11 million for ACL’s Lifespan Respite Care Program.

    Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): $4 billion for LIHEAP, an increase of $20 million. At a hearing earlier this year on the FY 2026 budget request for HHS, Senator Collins questioned Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on the proposed elimination of LIHEAP. At the urging of Senator Collins, HHS released more than $400 million in FY 2025 funding for LIHEAP in May. Maine has received $41.6 million in FY 2025 LIHEAP funding.

    CDC Dog Importation Rule: Includes report language on CDC’s flawed dog importation rule and calls for CDC to maintain the current pause on implementation of the rule and to restart the rule process. Following an effort led by Senator Collins last year, the CDC announced that it will be making critical revisions to its dog importation rule and delay implementation of a problematic provision.

    Early Education: $8.8 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant and nearly $12.4 billion for Head Start.

    Department of Labor (DOL):

    Job Corps: $1.8 billion for Job Corps. Senator Collins has strongly opposed the Administration’s proposed elimination of Job Corps. At a hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the DOL in May, Senator Collins spoke about Adais Viruet-Torres, a graduate of Loring Job Corps Center and Husson University who overcame homelessness and now works as a nurse practitioner. In April, Senator Collins sent a letter to Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging DOL to lift the halt on enrollment at Loring Job Corps Center and Penobscot Job Corps Center. Senators Collins and Jack Reed (D-RI) sent a letter Secretary Chavez-DeRemer requesting DOL to provide information on Job Corps contracts, background check processing, and evaluation plan.

    Apprenticeships: $285 million for the Apprenticeship Grant Program.

    H-2B Visas: Continued inclusion of bill language to ensure the efficacy of the H-2B program. The bill also includes $60.5 million for Foreign Labor Certification program administration, in part to help with H-2B processing, as well as report language directing the Department of Labor (DOL) to take steps to ensure prompt processing of H-2B visa applications.

    DOL Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Initiative: $6.5 million for workers in areas served by the Northern Border Regional Commission.

    Department of Education:

    TRIO: $1.2 billion to support low-income individuals and first-generation college students. At a hearing earlier this year on the FY 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Education, Senator Collins questioned Secretary of Education Linda McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs.

    Title I Grants to LEAs: $18.5 billion for Title I Grants to LEAs. Maine is expected to receive approximately $61.7 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.

    IDEA Grants to States: $15.2 billion for IDEA Grants to States. Maine is expected to receive approximately $70.8 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.

    Perkins Career and Technical Education (CTE) State Grants: $1.4 billion for CTE State Grants. Maine is expected to receive approximately $7 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.

    Pell Maximum Award: Maintains the maximum Pell award for a total of $7,395 for the 2026-2027 school year. Maine students are expected to receive approximately $126.6 million in Pell Grants through FY 2025 funds.

    Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP): $225 million to support rural school districts.

    Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools: $36 million for Special Olympics programs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Baldwin Releases Statement on Bipartisan Bill to Fund Labor, Health, and Education Departments for Fiscal Year 2026

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services, released the following statement after the full committee advanced her Fiscal Year 2026 funding legislation to the Senate floor. In addition to funding critical programs that the Trump Administration has tried to cut or withhold funding from – including Head Start, the National Institutes of Health, and Job Corps – the bipartisan bill takes further steps to mandate the timely delivery of Congressionally approved funding and adequate staffing levels at federal agencies to carry out the mission of these programs.

    “At the end of the day, my North Star is delivering for the people of Wisconsin. While no one got everything they wanted in this bill, I’m proud to say we found common ground and are doing just that to address the challenges facing working families across the country. From investing in cancer and Alzheimer’s research, to protecting the Department of Education and early education funding, to strengthening my 988 Suicide Lifeline, we came together to deliver for our constituents,” said Senator Baldwin. “This bill not only puts Donald Trump’s budget in the trash, it also reins in this President’s efforts to dismantle and withhold funding for critical programs our constituents rely on. This bill takes on the kitchen table issues families face by addressing childcare costs, connecting more Americans with good-paying jobs, and taking on the mental health and opioid epidemics. While it is not perfect, I look forward to getting it over the finish line on behalf of Wisconsinites who want to see a Washington that works for them.”

    As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services, Senator Baldwin writes the bill that funds the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. A summary of the bill is available below.

    Key Points & Highlights – Department of Health and Human Services

    Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): The bill provides $116.6 billion, an increase of $446 million in discretionary funding for the Department of Health and Human Services over fiscal year 2025.

    The bill rejects the Trump administration’s harmful efforts to defund and dismantle critical work that HHS oversees—maintaining important funding for programs across HHS that touch the lives of nearly every American, while providing targeted increases to important bipartisan priorities. The bill includes new requirements to help ensure adequate staffing and the timely awarding of funding to prevent completely unnecessary delays and disruptions in programs that families and communities across the country count on—from child care and Head Start to substance use and mental health—and that support lifesaving research into cures and treatments for devastating diseases.

    Biomedical Research: The bill provides $48.7 billion in discretionary funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH)—an increase of $400 million to propel lifesaving and life-changing cures and treatments across NIH’s 27 institutes and centers and the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H).

    The bill rejects the catastrophic 40% cut to NIH proposed by President Trump, and instead of slashing funding for biomedical research, includes a:

    • $150 million increase for cancer research;
    • $100 million increase for Alzheimer’s disease research;
    • $30 million increase for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases;
    • $30 million increase for the Office of Research on Women’s Health;
    • $25 million increase for ALS research, fully funding the $100 million as authorized by the ACT for ALS Act of 2021;
    • $20 million increase for the IMPROVE Initiative for research on maternal mortality;
    • $12 million increase for BRAIN Initiative research;
    • $10 million increase for diabetes research;
    • $10 million increase for rare disease research;
    • $9 million increase for the Undiagnosed Diseases Network; and a
    • $5 million to implement the National Parkinson’s Project.

    The bill also rejects the Trump administration’s proposal—and illegal efforts—to cap indirect cost rates at 15%, which would devastate biomedical research, and continues a longstanding provision that prohibits NIH from implementing such a cap. The bill also rejects the Trump administration’s misguided elimination of programs across NIH by maintaining funding for HIV vaccine research, training programs that support the next generation of researchers, and the Safe to Sleep campaign, among others.

    The bill also includes, as part of a manager’s amendment, a new provision that would prevent implementation of the Office of Management and Budget’s misguided policy for NIH to fund significantly more of its multi-year research grants in one lump sum. This poorly thought-out new policy would significantly cut the number of research grants NIH awards this year and next year—according to NIH’s own estimate, by 40% in fiscal year 2025, reducing the percentage of cancer research grants it will award from 13% to 7%, and Alzheimer’s disease grants from 18% to 6%. OMB’s attempt this week to explicitly and illegally withhold billions in funding and halt all remaining NIH research grants through the rest of the year makes its intentions crystal clear. More needs to be done to protect NIH research programs, but the provision included in this bill is an important step in preventing the Trump administration from decimating the biomedical research enterprise Congress has built in a bipartisan manner over decades, which has long been the envy of the world and drives medical innovation that has saved millions of lives.

    The bill also includes a new authority for NIH to address loopholes in sexual harassment reporting and strengthen accountability by requiring institutions to complete investigations into concerns about harassment, bullying, retaliation, or hostile working conditions, even if the alleged perpetrator leaves their current position and is no longer employed by the institution. It provides the NIH Director the authority to decline the transfer of an award to a different institution, helping to close the “pass-the-harasser” loophole. It also provides the NIH Director the authority to share investigation reports on an as-needed basis with any institution that receives NIH funding.

    Child Care and Early Learning Programs: The bill includes $8.8 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)—an $85 million increase over fiscal year 2025; and $12.4 billion for Head Start, an $85 million increase. Much more needs to be done to address our broken child care system and ensure every working family can find and afford child care, which is critical for businesses and our economy too—but sustained annual increases in these programs are critical in the meantime. The bill also sustains funding for Preschool Development Grants, which President Trump proposed eliminating in his budget request.

    Addressing Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health: The bill sustains funding to address the rising toll of opioid overdoses fueled by fentanyl, maintain access to substance use disorder prevention and treatment, and improve access to mental health services.

    The bill rejects President Trump’s proposed cuts to SAMHSA programs and maintains SAMHSA as its own, independent agency to ensure substance use and mental health remain a priority at HHS. The bill includes targeted increases to SAMHSA programs, including $2.0 billion, a $20 million increase over fiscal year 2025, for the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant; $1.6 billion for State Opioid Response grants, a $20 million increase; and $145 million for the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program.

    It protects key investments in mental health programs by sustaining funding for the Mental Health Block Grant, Project AWARE, Mental Health Awareness Training, and the National Childhood Traumatic Stress Network. The bill also provides $535 million, a $15 million increase over fiscal year 2025, for the 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline, to address continued increases in demand as 988 has been stood up over the last several years, and it restores dedicated funding for the LGBTQ+ youth specialized services line that President Trump eliminated this summer.

    Additionally, it includes approximately $180 million in investments within the Department of Education to address the shortage of school-based mental health professionals and services in our nation’s K-12 schools.

    Essential Health Care Programs: The bill protects investments in health care access and affordability and the health care workforce—maintaining investments in core programs, including $1.86 billion for Community Health Centers and $128.6 million for the National Health Service Corps. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is fully funded, and the bill affirms support for the mission and scientific integrity of the task force. The bill also includes a $9.3 million increase in rural health programs to boost recruitment of health care providers to practice in rural areas and support rural hospitals.

    Importantly, the bill provides a $5 million increase in funding for the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) Modernization Initiative to strengthen and reform the nation’s organ donation and transplant system. There are more than 100,000 individuals on the organ transplant waitlist, and this initiative, which began during the Biden administration, will allow the OPTN to better serve patients and families and strengthen accountability.

    Public Health: The bill rejects the approximately $4 billion—or 50%—cut to CDC programs proposed by President Trump’s budget request. CDC helps keep Americans safe and healthy by protecting against diseases and supporting states and local communities as they do the same. It also rejects the Trump administration’s haphazard proposal to dismantle CDC, which risks Americans’ health and safety, and requires HHS to support staffing levels to carry out the CDC’s programs.

    The bill also helps support state and local health departments by sustaining critical programs across the CDC, including funding for chronic diseases, the Office of Smoking and Health, injury prevention programs (including firearm injury and mortality research), global health programs, and immunization and infectious disease prevention programs.

    HIV/AIDS: The bill includes $613 million for the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative, which provides high-need jurisdictions with prevention and treatment services for people at high risk for HIV transmission. This includes $220 million within the CDC’s Domestic HIV/AIDS Prevention and Research programs to develop and deploy innovative data management solutions, increase access to PrEP, and better detect and respond to HIV clusters, and $128.9 million for the CDC’s global HIV/AIDS program. The bill also provides full funding for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program, including dental services and training for health care practitioners, two initiatives that President Trump sought to eliminate in his budget proposal.

    Women’s Health: The bill sustains funding for reproductive health programs, including Title X and the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program, which President Trump eliminated in his budget proposal. The bill also increases investments in maternal health across CDC and NIH with a $53 million increase for programs that aim to address maternal mental health, prevent pregnancy-related deaths, support best practices to improve maternal health outcomes, and invest in women’s health research. The bill also provides funding for a new initiative to support survivors of sexual assault and creates a new menopause initiative within AHRQ to translate research best practices into clinical practice for women. Importantly, the bill includes increases in funding for the Maternal Mental Health Hotline and maternal health safety initiatives through the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health program.

    Pandemic Preparedness and Biodefense: The bill includes $3.6 billion for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). It sustains funding for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA); Project Bioshield; the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS); and Industrial Base Management and Supply Chain (IBMSC) activities to help ensure that critical resources in the public health supply chain—including raw materials, medical countermeasures, and ancillary supplies—are manufactured in the United States. It also includes $4 million to support a new program to improve emergency medical services and trauma care during a public health emergency.

    Administration for Community Living: The bill maintains funding for the Administration for Community Living as its own agency within HHS to help support seniors and Americans with disabilities so they can live and participate fully in their communities. This includes providing $1.1 billion for senior nutrition programs and providing targeted increases for family caregiver programs.

    Home Heating and Cooling Assistance: The bill includes $4.045 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a $20 million increase over fiscal year 2025, to help low-income households heat and cool their homes.

    Key Points & Highlights – Department of Education

    Department of Education: The bill provides $79.0 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Education.

    The bill rejects the Trump administration’s call to eliminate the Department of Education and maintains funding across the Department, including funding for K-12 formula and competitive grant programs, CTE and adult education programs, federal student aid, postsecondary competitive grants, and civil rights enforcement to provide the resources needed to help schools improve educational outcomes for students and protect all students from discrimination.

    The bill includes new requirements that the Department of Education maintain the staff necessary to ensure it carries out its statutory responsibilities, including carrying out programs and activities funded in this bill in a timely manner. The bill also includes new requirements for the Department of Education to make formula grants available to states and districts on time. While this should be unnecessary, this step prevents any administration from withholding key funding for students and creating chaos for states and schools, which distracts educators from helping kids thrive.

    Supporting Elementary and Secondary Education Students: The bill strengthens investments in foundational formula grant programs for elementary and secondary education and in public schools, teachers, and students—rejecting the $4.5 billion cut and the proposed consolidations in President Trump’s budget request for a new $2 billion block grant program.

    The bill boosts funding for Title I-A grants by $50 million above the fiscal year 2025 level to $18.457 billion. More than 80% of the nation’s school districts receive these funds, and nearly 25 million students go to schools receiving Title I funding. The bill also provides $15.224 billion, an increase of $50 million over fiscal year 2025, for all three IDEA Special Education State grant programs and retains each as a separate program. IDEA state grant programs support more than seven million students and children with disabilities and their families who receive IDEA services through these programs. The bill also includes new guardrails to prevent the administration from moving these formula grant programs to other federal agencies and disrupting the efficient and effective use of federal funds intended to improve outcomes for students.

    The bill also continues current investments, except for a few targeted reductions, across a range of other important formula and competitive grant programs authorized to improve teaching and learning in elementary and secondary schools, rejecting President Trump’s proposed elimination of $1.5 billion in total funding for nine important programs.

    Career and Technical Education (CTE): The bill provides $1.45 billion for CTE grants and $729 million for adult education grants and appropriates such funding to the Department of Education to carry out these programs, rejecting President Trump’s call to eliminate federal support for adult education. The bill includes new provisions requiring both CTE and adult education formula grants to be awarded in a timely way to prevent any administration from withholding these critical funds.

    Higher Education: The bill provides a total maximum Pell Grant award of $7,395 for the 2026-2027 award year, rejecting President Trump’s proposal to cut the Pell grant by over $1000. This coming school year, Pell Grants are expected to help over 7 million students at all stages of life pursue postsecondary education and further their careers. The bill also rejects President Trump’s proposals to eliminate a range of postsecondary education programs.

    Instead, the bill sustains funding for Federal Work Study and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant that provide additional need-based aid to students to help them afford postsecondary education. The bill also includes $65 million for the Teacher Quality Partnership program and $15 million for the Hawkins Centers of Excellence to help educator preparation programs address educator shortages. It also continues other investments available to recruit, develop, and retain an effective and diverse teacher and school leader workforce, including $90 million for the Supporting Effective Educator Development program.

    The bill sustains funding for TRIO at $1.191 billion; $388 million for GEAR UP; $75 million for the Child Care Access Means Parents in School Program (CCAMPIS); a $10 million for the Basic Needs Program; and $40 million for the Postsecondary Student Success Grant Program to help students prepare for and succeed in post-secondary education. The bill also sustains funding for Title III and V programs that support HBCUs, MSIs, Tribal colleges, and other institutions. President Trump had proposed to eliminate CCAMPIS, TRIO, GEAR UP, International Education, the Basic Needs Program, and the Postsecondary Student Success Grant, among other programs in his budget request.

    The bill also sustains funding for the administration of student aid programs. This funding supports a wide range of activities, including: implementing the FAFSA; disbursing student aid; ensuring services are available to student loan borrowers; implementing more affordable repayment plans; and fixing longstanding issues in student loan forgiveness programs. Finally, the bill includes important requirements to help Congress conduct oversight over the new higher education provisions contained in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    Protecting Students from Discrimination: The bill rejects President Trump’s proposed cut of $49 million, or one-third of the total budget, for the Office for Civil Rights. Instead, the bill maintains the current budget level of $140 million and requires the Department to support the staffing levels necessary for OCR to fulfill its statutory responsibilities.

    Advancing Education Research, Statistics, and Assessments: The bill maintains current funding of $793 million for the Institute of Education Sciences for all programs and activities of IES funded in fiscal year 2024, rejecting the massive reduction of $532 million or 67% proposed in President Trump’s budget request. The Trump administration’s significant workforce reductions and program delays at IES this year have caused it to fail to meet statutory requirements. The bill requires the Department to support staffing levels necessary for IES and the National Center for Education Statistics to fulfill their statutory responsibilities.

    Key Points & Highlights – Department of Labor

    Department of Labor (DOL): The bill includes $13.7 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Labor. The bill rejects the harmful cuts proposed by the Trump administration, including the administration’s proposal to block grant our nation’s workforce training programs.

    Workforce Development: The bill includes $2.9 billion for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) formula grants, protecting essential investments made in recent years. It includes a new directive requiring DOL to award such funds in a timely manner. It provides $285 million for Registered Apprenticeships and $105 million for YouthBuild. The bill also rejects President Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion for Job Corps. Rejecting President Trump’s proposed cuts for many of these programs and continuing funding for these key workforce development programs will help grow the economy, provide workers with the skills they need to secure good-paying jobs of the future, and help American businesses compete globally.

    Worker Protection: The bill rejects drastic reductions proposed in President Trump’s request and sustains key investments in DOL’s worker protection agencies charged with enforcing requirements for employers to pay workers what they earn and provide safe and healthy workplaces. The bill maintains $191 million in funding for the Employee Benefits Security Administration, which is responsible for, among other things, ensuring private sector employment-based group health plans comply with mental health and substance use disorder parity requirements. The bill also maintains $260 million for Wage and Hour Division to support the Division’s work to recover wages workers are owed and to combat exploitative child labor. Last year, the Division secured more than $273 million in back wages collected and damages for nearly 152,000 workers nationwide.

    The bill also provides $111 million, $41 million more than President Trump’s budget request, for the Bureau of International Labor Affairs to enforce labor provisions of free trade agreements and trade preference programs and combat international child labor and forced labor. Finally, the bill rejects the proposed elimination of the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs and Women’s Bureau, providing $106 million and $23 million, respectively.

    Key Points & Highlights – Related Agencies

    Social Security Administration (SSA): The bill includes $15.0 billion for SSA’s administrative expenses—an increase of $594 million over fiscal year 2025. This is $100 million more than President Trump’s budget request to help address staffing challenges and improve service to the public. The Trump administration has single-handedly created completely unnecessary chaos at SSA that has weakened Americans’ ability to get the benefits they are owed—and it has continually misled the public with easily disproven claims about widespread fraud. Instead of admitting to its lie, SSA has doubled down and pursued poorly planned and implemented policy changes. The American public and the beneficiaries SSA serves have paid the price, with unacceptable wait times to access the benefits and services Americans deserve, and that they have literally earned through a lifetime of work. Instead of chasing conspiracy theories, the administration should focus on actually improving services and addressing service delivery challenges impacting Americans across the country. The resources in this bill will help SSA do just that.

    AmeriCorps: The bill rejects President Trump’s elimination of AmeriCorps and sustains funding for all of AmeriCorps’ grant programs by providing a total of $1.25 billion to the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to administer these programs. This bill also includes new provisions requiring any administration to award AmeriCorps state formula funding in a timely way and includes new requirements to ensure CNCS will award competitive grants in a timely fashion, too. The bill will support AmeriCorps members serving in communities across the country and working to address pressing challenges, including responding to natural disasters, assisting in schools, supporting our veterans, promoting economic opportunity, and conserving and protecting the environment.

    Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB): As a result of Congressional Republicans’ approval of the Rescissions Act of 2025—the first ever partisan rescissions bill signed into law—no funds are provided in the bill for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the more than 1,500 locally owned public TV and radio stations nationwide that have, for over 50 years, been supported by CPB funds and infrastructure investments. Republicans’ devastating rescissions bill will particularly hurt 120 stations that rely on CPB for more than 25% of their revenue, who are now scrambling to find new sources of support or significantly reduce programming or close in the coming months.

    Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS): The bill continues to invest $295 million in the nation’s libraries and museums through programs of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and requires IMLS to fund specified programs and activities at amounts identified in the Committee report.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Electricity industry on notice as more households invest in subsidised batteries and solar

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The ACCC is warning battery and solar suppliers and electricity retailers their sales practices must meet scrutiny as demand for home batteries and solar systems jumps due to subsidy schemes and the large savings that households on solar and battery plans are experiencing.

    The ACCC’s latest Electricity Inquiry Report examines emerging markets for new electricity services, particularly those supported by solar and battery systems, and compares the electricity bills of solar and battery customers with the bills of regular customers who draw only from the grid.

    The report found that the Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program is making batteries more affordable and providing more households an opportunity to lower their electricity bills. To ensure that consumers receive the full benefit of the Program, the ACCC is warning that retailers and installers must act in the consumer’s interest.

    “As more Australian households switch to battery and solar plans, it’s important that the deals on offer are fair, accurate and easy to understand,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

    “The ACCC will be watching carefully and actively monitoring consumer complaints. We will hold solar and battery installers, retailers and suppliers accountable to ensure they comply with Australia’s consumer laws.”

    “Consumers looking to take advantage of the new subsidies for solar home batteries to lower their energy bills, should take their time and not feel pressured to rush in straight away,” Ms Brakey said.

    The report emphasises the complexity of investing in a solar and home battery system and the need for consumers to understand whether the benefits they receive outweigh the costs, particularly when choosing system sizes.

    The report supports calls for additional consumer protections to safeguard consumers purchasing systems and signing up to new energy services like virtual power plants. It also supports calls for an overarching consumer duty that requires energy companies to act in the interests of consumers.

    “We believe additional consumer protections are needed as more Australians participate in markets for new and emerging energy services,” Ms Brakey said.

    “We advise consumers to read the Australian Government’s Solar Consumer Guide, compare a number of quotes from different providers, and ask for personalised information from solar and battery sellers about the appropriate size for their system and the projected cost savings.”

    Solar and battery customers see biggest bill savings

    Australian households with rooftop solar and a home battery have electricity bills that are on average 40 per cent less than customers whose electricity comes entirely from the grid (regular users), the report found.

    The report presents new analysis of the 2023 to 2024 billing outcomes of customers that have adopted different renewable energy solutions and compares them to regular users.

    The median annual residential electricity bill for regular users, without rebates, in the National Electricity Market in 2023 to 2024 was $1,565. The median household with rooftop solar paid about 18 per cent less ($1,279 per year), while a household with solar and a home battery paid about 40 per cent less ($936).

    Residential customers who are connected to a virtual power plant, which is an energy sharing network of solar and batteries, paid about 63 per cent less ($580) than the median household.

    “Home solar and batteries continue to be a compelling option for Australians who can afford the upfront cost, with those who are connected to a virtual power plant saving up to almost $1000 off their annual bill,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

    Median bills paid by regular, solar, battery and virtual power plant customers, by region, quarter 3 of 2023 to quarter 3 of 2024.

    Government rebates bring down power bills by 21 per cent

    The report also shows that government rebates resulted in the median quarterly household power bill dropping by 21 per cent between the third quarter 2023 and third quarter 2024.

    Without rebates, the median quarterly bill would have instead risen by 4 per cent.

    “The sharpest decline across the National Electricity Market was in South East Queensland, where rebates exceeded the median bill amount,” Ms Brakey said.

    Background

    The National Electricity Market is comprised of South East Queensland, New South Wales (including the ACT), Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia. Western Australia and the Northern Territory are not connected to the National Electricity Market.

    To inform this report, we collected billing data from 8 retailers, which cover 97 per cent of residential customers and 90 per cent of small business customers in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and South East Queensland. We obtained additional data for customers on virtual power plant services, electric vehicle tariffs and behavioural demand response plans.

    In 2018, the Australian Government directed the ACCC to hold an inquiry into the prices, profits and margins in relation to the supply of electricity in the National Electricity Market (which covers NSW, Victoria, South East Queensland and South Australia). On 23 March 2025, the Australian Government announced a 12-month extension to the inquiry.

    This is the 13th time the ACCC has reported as part of this inquiry.

    The report is available on the ACCC’s website at Electricity market monitoring 2018-2025.

    The ACCC is required to report at least every 6 months. The next report is scheduled for December 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Energy Announces Executive Officer Personnel

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Energy Announces Executive Officer Personnel

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, Spanish and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 31st, 2025 Heinrich Urges USDA and DOI to Provide Adequate Resources and Support to Wildland Firefighters, Following Reports of Firefighters Cleaning Toilets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary (USDA) Brooke Rollins and U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum following reports that staff reductions have required the deployment of fire personnel to fill administrative gaps, leaving fire crews understaffed and overwhelmed.

    “Wildfire season is well underway, particularly across the Western United States. Much of the West is predicted to experience higher-than-normal fire behavior through October, and 44 large fires are currently uncontained. With wildfire season likely to continue for several more months, I am extremely concerned by reports that staff reductions have required the deployment of fire personnel to fill administrative gaps, leaving fire crews understaffed and overwhelmed,” Heinrich began.

    “According to recent reports, firings, buyouts, and other personnel changes have led to gross understaffing at both the Departments of Agriculture and the Interior responsible for fire prevention and response, forcing firefighters to wear multiple hats,” Heinrich continued. “In addition to carrying out their own duties, firefighters reportedly have been thrown into serving in administrative and janitorial roles—ranging from cleaning campground bathrooms to answering front desk calls to mowing lawns.”

    Highlighting the impacts of the Trump Administration’s Deferred Resignation Program on firefighting preparedness, Heinrich wrote, “As you know, thousands of staff with red cards left the agencies this year due to the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP). If those personnel roles and responsibilities now must be filled by firefighters at the height of fire season, then the DRP was not only inefficient but has materially threatened public safety.”

    In light of these concerns, Heinrich requested information from the Administration on firefighter staffing levels and support personnel since January 2025—including assessments of staffing gaps, data comparing current firefighting levels to the 10-year average, the impact of reassignments, and the number of firefighters serving in administrative or custodial roles. Heinrich concluded the letter by noting the Secretaries’ Joint Memorandum committing to work together to “ensure that wildland fire personnel have the resources, training, and support to work under safe conditions and to effectively carry out their wildland fire management mission.”

    “Since then, you have made assurances that you have the appropriate staff to meet current and future wildfire challenges. However, these recent news reports cast doubt on those assurances,” noted Heinrich.

    Read the full letter here and below:

    Dear Secretary Rollins and Secretary Burgum:

    Wildfire season is well underway, particularly across the Western United States. Much of the West is predicted to experience higher-than-normal fire behavior through October, and 44 large fires are currently uncontained. With wildfire season likely to continue for several more months, I am extremely concerned by reports that staff reductions have required the deployment of fire personnel to fill administrative gaps, leaving fire crews understaffed and overwhelmed.

    According to recent reports, firings, buyouts, and other personnel changes have led to gross understaffing at both the Departments of Agriculture and the Interior responsible for fire prevention and response, forcing firefighters to wear multiple hats. In addition to carrying out their own duties, firefighters reportedly have been thrown into serving in administrative and janitorial roles—ranging from cleaning campground bathrooms to answering front desk calls to mowing lawns.

    This situation is the opposite to that described by Chief Tom Schultz in his “Wildfire Priority” memorandum, dated July 16, 2025, relating to making staff with ‘red card’ qualifications available for firefighting duties. As you know, thousands of staff with red cards left the agencies this year due to the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP). If those personnel roles and responsibilities now must be filled by firefighters at the height of fire season, then the DRP was not only inefficient but has materially threatened public safety.

    In light of these concerns, please provide responses to the following questions by August 14, 2025:

    1. Since January 20, 2025, have your Departments conducted a review or assessment to understand the extent to which staffing gaps exist for firefighting personnel positions? Have you conducted a similar review or assessment on the staffing gaps for firefighting support staff, such as aircraft inspectors, dispatchers, or public information officers? If so, please provide a copy of those reviews or assessments.

    2. You both have noted that your Departments are on pace to achieve their firefighter staffing goals for 2025, but multiple reports indicate extreme gaps in the staffing levels of firefighters, particularly those with enough experience to lead a crew or direct incident response. Please describe the number of firefighters at each General Schedule pay category for this fire year compared with the 10-year average.

    3. To what extent has the Department of the Interior Secretarial Order 3426 “Ensuring National Parks Are Open and Accessible” contributed to the need to assign wildland firefighters to administrative or custodial roles?

    4. Please provide the following data:

    a. The total number of firefighters who have been assigned to administrative or support roles since January 20, 2025. In responding this question, please provide a listing of all non-fire related roles firefighters have been assigned to carry out.

    b. The total number of firefighters who have been assigned to serve in maintenance roles since January 20, 2025.

    c. The total number of fire team support staff who have departed the Department or have agreed to early retirement or entered into a DRP since January 20, 2025. In responding to this question, provide information for each category listed and for each agency.

    In March, you signed a Joint Memorandum committing to work together to “ensure that wildland fire personnel have the resources, training, and support to work under safe conditions and to effectively carry out their wildland fire management mission.” Since then, you have made assurances that you have the appropriate staff to meet current and future wildfire challenges. However, these recent news reports cast doubt on those assurances.

    We look forward to your timely responses to these important questions. Should you have any questions about this request, please contact my staff at (202) 224-4971.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Objects to Mike Lee’s Exclusion of Wild Olympics Bill from Public Lands Package, Makes the Case for Her Bill to Permanently Protect Wild Olympics

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Senator Murray & Representative Randall Reintroduce Wild Olympics Bill to Permanently Protect Wild Olympics Wilderness and Rivers

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s remarks on Senate Floor***

    Washington, D.C. —Today,U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, blocked an attempt on the Senate floor by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) to pass a package of public lands bills that excluded Senator Murray’s Wild Olympics Wilderness & Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, legislation with widespread grassroots support in Washington state from a broad coalition that includes Republican and Democratic elected officials, local businesses and economic leaders, Tribes, hunters, fisherman, conservationists, outdoor industry groups, farms, loggers, and countless others. Senator Murray made clear she would be glad to consider a revised package that did include her Wild Olympics legislation.

    The Wild Olympics Wilderness & Wild and Scenic Rivers Act would permanently protect more than 126,500 acres of Olympic National Forest as wilderness and 19 rivers and their major tributaries—a total of 464 river miles—as Wild and Scenic Rivers. Designed through extensive community input to conserve ancient forests and pristine rivers, protect clean water and salmon habitat, and enhance outdoor recreation, the legislation would set aside the first new wilderness on Olympic National Forest in over four decades and the first-ever protected wild and scenic rivers on the Olympic Peninsula. Senator Murray most recently reintroduced the legislation alongside Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06) in May. The legislation has passed the House with bipartisan support several times before and passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee last Congress for the first time in the bill’s history.

    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered on the Senate Floor, are below:

    “Mr. President, reserving the right to object, and I appreciate the senator from Utah being here tonight to offer this package. But I believe there needs to be a more bipartisan and thoughtful way to consider how we protect the future of our public lands.

    “For example, the legislation that the senior senator from Utah wants to pass tonight does not include my Wild Olympics bill. Now, this is a bill that will help to preserve the wild and scenic rivers of the Olympic Peninsula, that has very strong support from Democrats and Republicans in my state.

    “There is a strong nonpartisan coalition of support for this bill: from Tribes, hunters, fisherman, conservationists, and even loggers.

    “And that is because my bill supports the Peninsula economy, and ensures continued access to our world-class outdoor recreation on the Olympic Peninsula, and it conserves critical habitat for salmon and water resources for our very rural communities.

    “Moreover, this bill has passed the House several times now with bipartisan support. In fact, Mr. President, I have been working on this for well over a decade to build support and consensus around this bill.

    “It is a carefully drafted, it’s a thoughtful piece of legislation and the grassroots support for this bill has only grown over the years. That is exactly the kind of bill which should be included in a bipartisan public lands package.

    “I would invite the Senior Senator of Utah to visit the land this bill covers to help protect our Olympic National Forest. I think you would find out why I am here tonight objecting to this because it doesn’t include it.  I want the senator from Utah to know, my door is always open.

    “I hope in the future we can work together in drafting a public lands bill that does include legislation like my Wild Olympics bill.

    “And I know I’m not alone—many of our colleagues have worked on important legislation for their respective states.

    “So for now, I object, but I do, Mr. President, with my hand outstretched ready to work with the senator together on a public lands package that is comprehensive.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Government Watchdog Finds Trump Has Illegally Impounded Funding for 4th Time in Recent Weeks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    GAO finds Trump illegally impounded funding for K-12 schools across America to make energy efficiency upgrades—lowering schools’ costs and upgrading students’ classrooms

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on another Government Accountability Office (GAO) decision announced this morning, which concludes that President Trump has—in violation of the Impoundment Control Act (ICA)—illegally impounded funding provided by Congress for the Renew America’s Schools program, which was created on a bipartisan basis in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law:

    “It’s a day that ends in y—and that means President Trump is breaking the law to block funding that helps families and communities across the country.

    “I don’t think a person in America was clamoring to cut off funding Congress provided on a bipartisan basis for schools to make upgrades to students’ classrooms—but that’s exactly what President Trump has done.

    “Denying schools funding for energy efficiency upgrades that save them money isn’t just illegal, it’s stupid and harmful—and it’s time President Trump stop blocking this funding alongside all the other key investments he’s holding up.”

    In its decision, GAO also highlighted how the Trump administration’s decision to pull down a public website detailing its spending decisions inhibited its ability to conduct its investigation—yet more evidence that claims by this administration of a commitment to radical transparency are a farce and another reminder of the importance that the website get restored, as the law requires and a court recently required the administration to do.

    In its decision today, the GAO concluded that:

    “Congress in IIJA created a grants program at DOE for energy efficiency improvements at public school facilities. …. DOE has obligated 17 percent of its FY 2025 funding and expended 0 percent. …. For FY 2026, OMB proposed canceling nearly $196 million ‘from unobligated balances made available for fiscal years 2022 through 2026 in the ‘Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’ account provided for Grants for Energy Efficiency Improvements and Renewable Improvements at Public School Facilities. …. We conclude that DOE violated the ICA by delaying the obligation of FY 2025 funds appropriated by IIJA for the Schools Program. …. The Constitution grants the President no unilateral authority to withhold funds from obligation.”

    Presidents do not wield the power to unilaterally withhold or block investments that have been enacted into law through “impoundment.” This foundational principle has been affirmed time and again. The Impoundment Control Act of 1974 makes this plain and establishes limited procedures the president can and must follow to propose delaying or rescinding enacted funding. The ICA also charges GAO with the responsibility of investigating and reporting to Congress when the president illegally withholds funding.

    The GAO has now acknowledged that it has opened 46 impoundment investigations and counting.

    Today’s announcement follows:

    The ICA authorizes the Comptroller General to file suit when the president illegally impounds funding.

    Since his first hours in office, President Trump has illegally blocked funding owed to communities across the country through a variety of different means. Senate and House Appropriations Committee Democrats have been tracking Trump’s illegal funding freeze and found that, as of June 3, President Trump is blocking at least $425 billion in funding owed to the American people.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Questions Treasury Nominee on Biofuels, Wind and Solar Provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, today questioned Treasury Department nominee Derek Theurer on the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    Grassley asked whether Theurer would advise the Treasury Department to maintain its longstanding interpretation of “began construction.” Grassley requested a timeline on formal guidance for implementing the clean fuels tax credit to provide Iowa’s biofuels industry greater certainty.

    Grassley also questioned Bryan Switzer, nominee to be Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, about America’s trade balance with China. 

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    On Wins on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    The One Big Beautiful Bill was an historic achievement. We averted the largest tax increase in history. It made pro-growth business provisions permanent. It unlocked business investment that will create jobs. The bill also provides additional middle-class tax relief.

    Implementing the Bill as Congress Intended

    As Treasury works to implement the bill, the agency must work with members to ensure the provisions are implemented according to the statute and faithful to congressional intent.

    So, the first question is a very general one. Can we count on you to keep Congress well informed during the implementation process and consult with [relevant] members of Congress where questions arise as to what was congressional intent?

    Wind and Solar Provisions, 45Z Implementation

    There are several provisions that I’m particularly interested in, in seeing faithfully implemented. This includes the structure of the phase-out for the wind and solar credits and modifications to the Clean Fuels Production Credit. And, remember, you’re talking to the father of the Wind Energy Tax Credit.

    I worked with my colleagues to provide wind and solar an appropriate glide path for the orderly phase-out of the tax credits. Ultimately, Congress enshrined in statute a 12-month transition period based on when projects “begin construction.”

    What it means for a project to “begin construction” has been very well established by Treasury guidance for more than a decade. Moreover, Congress specifically references current Treasury guidance to set that term’s meaning in law. It seems to me, this is a case where both the law and congressional intent are very, very clear.

    So, Mr. Theurer, will you commit to advising the Department that both the law and congressional intent are clear and that the “beginning of construction” – those official words – means what it has meant for more than a decade?

    Impact of the Clean Fuels Credit on Biofuels

    The reconciliation bill includes an extension and modification of [the] Clean Fuel[s] Production Tax Credit under 45Z. Implementing this credit properly and quickly is important for the biofuels industry and its participants, especially farmers. The Biden administration failed to meaningfully address 45Z regulations, which has caused major market disruptions, including plant closures.

    When can we expect to see guidance formally implementing the clean fuels credit so the biofuels industry can confidently move forward with operations?

    America’s Trade Balance with China

    You will be handling areas of international trade, and I’m interested in China. Based on your personal history, you know how challenging this will be. Do you think that the whole United States economy needs to decouple completely from China, or only certain sectors of our economy?

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Second quarter and first half 2025 results 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BW Energy delivered strong operational performance in the first half of 2025, driven by high production uptime, competitive cost levels, and a solid safety record with zero lost time incidents. The Company’s project portfolio continues to advance, with final investment decisions taken on both the Maromba development and the Golfinho Boost project. In addition, a substantial oil discovery was made at the Bourdon prospect in the Dussafu area, further expanding BW Energy’s resource base. Backed by strong cash generation and a resilient financial structure, BW Energy is well placed to drive growth and create long-term shareholder value. 

    HIGHLIGHTS 

    Strong operational performance 

    • H1 2025 net production of 6.2 (4.6) million barrels, equal to 34.2 (25.4) kbopd  
    • Operating cost1 of USD 18.3 (26.2) per barrel and zero lost time incidents 
    • Assumed operatorship of the BW Adolo FPSO 

     Successfully developing and increasing the resource base 

    • Final investment decision made on Maromba and Golfinho Boost projects 
    • Substantial oil discovery of 25 mmbbls in the Bourdon prospect  

    Robust financial results 

    • H1 2025 EBITDA of USD 281.1 (185.8) million and net profit of USD 109.7 (61.9) million 
    • Q2 2025 EBITDA of USD 99.0 million and net profit of USD 26.7 million 
    • Operating cash flow of USD 162.0 (85.1) million  
    • Cash position of USD 192.9 (244.2) million at 30 June 
    • New and upsized RBL facility up to USD 500 million


    2025 guidance unchanged 

    • Production: 11-12 mmbbls (30-32 kbopd) 
    • Operating cost1: USD 18-22 per barrel 
    • CAPEX: USD 650-700 million 
    • G&A: USD 19-22 million 

     (Numbers in parenthesis refer to H1 2024) 

    1) Operating costs exclude royalties, tariffs, workovers, crude oil purchases for domestic market obligations, production sharing costs in Gabon, and incorporates the impact of IFRS 16 adjustments 

    Comment from the CEO of BW Energy, Carl Arnet:  

    “BW Energy delivered a strong first half of 2025, with production above the upper end of our guidance range and operating costs at significantly more competitive levels than in 2024. This reflects continued focus on safe, efficient operations and disciplined cost management across the portfolio.

    During the period, we moved key development projects into execution, marking an important step forward in our growth strategy. The Maromba development in Brazil is now underway and will be transformative for BW Energy, increasing production to more than 90,000 barrels per day in 2028.

    Furthermore, we strengthened our portfolio, confirming new resources at the Bourdon prospect in the Dussafu licence. These are highly profitable barrels that highlight our strategy of leveraging existing infrastructure and pursuing fast‑track developments to accelerate value creation.

    Our financial foundation remains robust, with low leverage and strong underlying cash generation. This gives us the resilience to navigate market volatility while continuing to deliver growth and long‑term value for our shareholders.”


    Please find attached the report for the first half of 2025 and the second quarter presentation. 

    The report, presentation, excel data book and webcast will be available on:

    www.bwenergy.no/investors/reports-and-presentations 

    CONFERENCE CALL/WEBCAST  

    BW Energy will today hold a conference call followed by a Q&A hosted by CEO Carl K. Arnet and CFO Brice Morlot at 14:00 CEST.  

    The presentation may also be followed via webcast on:  

    https://events.webcast.no/viewer-registration/qQC1bQEB/register  

    Please note, that if you follow the webcast via the above URL, you will experience a 30 second delay compared to the main conference call. The web page works best in an updated browser – Chrome is recommended. 

    Conference call information:  

    To dial in to the conference call where the second quarter results and Q&A will be hosted, please dial in to one of the following numbers:  

    Participants dial in numbers: 

    DK: +45 7876 8490 
    SE: +46 8 1241 0952 
    NO: +47 2195 6342 
    UK: +44 203 769 6819 
    US: +1 646-787-0157 
    Singapore: 65-3-1591097 
    France: 33-1-81221259 
     
    Conference code: 980877  

    For further information, please contact: 

    Martin Seland Simensen, VP Investor Relations

    +47 416 92 087  

    Martin.simensen@bwenergy.no 

    About BW Energy: 

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 7% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025.  

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.  

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: UAB “Atsinaujinančios energetikos investicijos” publishes its factsheet for the second quarter of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    UAB “Atsinaujinančios energetikos investicijos” (the Company) publishes its factsheet, providing information about the Company’s investment portfolio, key events, business strategy, operating segments, and financial indicators as of 30 June 2025. 

    2025 Q2 KEY EVENTS 

    • The total aggregated 2025 YTD Revenue and YTD EBITDA amounted to 5,634 kEUR and 3,138 kEUR, respectively. 
    • The decision has been made to extend the Company’s term by two years, until February 2028. 
    • From the issuance proceeds of the new 2.5-year, fixed coupon, 100 mEUR Green Bonds Programme and bond redemption cash tender offer in June, the Investment Company has successfully refinanced 37.2 mEUR worth of outstanding green bonds that were to mature in December 2025. 

    Solar development in Poland: 

    • The construction of 67.8 MW total capacity PV Energy Projects sp. z. o.o. portfolio nears completion.  As of the reporting period, 47.9 MW are operational. Two projects (~2 MW) were energised during this quarter, and two projects (0.95 MW each) are planned to be energised in Q2 2025. The anticipated COD for the entire park is set for March 2026. 
    • The PL SUN sp. z o.o. portfolio, with a total capacity of 113.99 MW, is divided into two phases. Construction works for the first phase (66.6 MW) were largely finalised in Q2 2024. Of this, 26.47 MW were energised in Q4 2024. 20 MW were energised in this quarter. The remaining 20.2 MW are projected to be energised in Q3 2025. Construction of the second phase commenced in October 2024. Balance of System, technical advisory, and O&M contracts have been signed. Modules and inverters have been delivered to all sites. Mounting structure construction and module installation works have been finished in 7 sites (45.1 MW). Transformer stations were delivered to four sites (32.2 MW).  

    Wind Projects: 

    • The Energy Production license for the Anykščiai wind farm was obtained in August 2024. Jonava and Rokiškis wind farms obtained the license this quarter, in April.  
    • The 112 MW wind farm developed under Zala Elektriba SIA is scheduled to commence construction in the middle of July. The substation user’s part BoP agreement was signed in June. 

    Hybrid Projects: 

    • The hybrid projects managed by UAB “Ekoelektra” and UAB “KNT Holding” are progressing, with the majority of land lease agreements and cable and road servitudes secured for the former, and approximately 80% secured for the latter.  

    Contact person for further information: 

    Mantas Auruškevičius 

    Manager of the Investment Company 

    mantas.auruskevicius@lordslb.lt 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor backs jobs boost in Scottish defence and energy sectors

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Chancellor backs jobs boost in Scottish defence and energy sectors

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves will outline how the Spending Review will give Scotland a jobs boost, as she visits RAF Lossiemouth and St Fergus Gas Plant today (1 August).

    • 18,000 North Sea jobs can be safeguarded through a £200 million investment in the Aberdeen Acorn energy project whilst creating 15,000 new ones in Scotland’s clean energy transformation.
    • Increase in defence spending will see more jobs added to the 26,100 skilled Scottish jobs already supported by UK Government defence investment, and three new E-7 Wedgetail aircraft will see even more jobs created by Boeing at RAF Lossiemouth.
    • Defence and clean energy commitments, part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, will provide jobs and build thriving communities from Aberdeen to the Clyde.

    The UK Government is investing in defence and clean energy to protect existing jobs and create thousands more, while keep the UK secure. Increasing defence spending to 2.6%, could lead to around 0.3% higher GDP in the long run, equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in today’s money, according to government estimates.

    RAF Lossiemouth shows how investment in defence delivers for ordinary families. The Moray base has undergone a huge transformation in recent years and military personnel and civilian workers now work together keep our fighter jets and sub-hunting aircraft in the air.  The addition of three new E-7 Wedgetail aircraft to the RAF’s fleet will see even more jobs created by Boeing at the base, where the Chancellor will meet with some of the over 200 Boeing teammates who work alongside RAF personnel.

    Chancellor, Rachel Reeves said:

    We’re seizing the huge potential and opportunities that Scotland has on offer. Whether it’s in defence to keep the UK safe, or clean energy to power all corners of the country, this government is backing Scotland with billions of pounds of investment to grow the economy and create jobs.

    Scottish Secretary, Ian Murray said:

    The UK Government is investing in defence to ensure Britain’s security and deter our adversaries and drive economic growth.

    This investment is a massive jobs opportunity for Scotland – this ‘defence dividend’ is good news for Scotland, where it will help create skilled jobs, drive economic growth and help tackle the critical skills gaps facing the country in sectors such as nuclear, construction, maritime and project management.

    The Spending Review also saw investments that will make Scotland the home of the UK’s clean energy revolution. While Acorn is still subject to final investment decision, this £200 million is just the beginning to this government’s commitment to investing in Scotland and has the potential to safeguard 18,000 North Sea jobs whilst creating 15,000 new ones in Scotland’s clean energy transformation.

    Great British Energy will also be headquartered in Aberdeen, to drive clean power generation across the UK. Boosting homegrown energy will also make the UK more secure.

    The Chancellor’s visit comes as defence spending rises to 2.6% of GDP and figures from 23/24 reveal that MOD spend maintains 26,100 skilled jobs across Scotland. The Spending Review also committed £250 million to secure the future of HMNB Clyde – the first stage of a multi-decade, multi-billion renewal project and all three Clyde shipyards are currently fulfilling contracts for the Royal Navy.

    Further information:

    • The Spending Review delivered a record settlement for Scottish public services, with the Scottish Government’s largest settlement, in real terms, since devolution in 1998. Scottish Government’s settlement is growing in real terms between 2024-25 and 2028-29. This translates into an average of £50.9 billion per year between 2026-27 and 2028-29.

    Maria Laine, President United Kingdom, Ireland & Nordic region, Boeing, said:

    Boeing has a long-standing presence in Scotland including at RAF Lossiemouth, the home to the UK’s P-8 Poseidon fleet and where the E-7 Wedgetail will be based when it enters service. As a key partner of the UK Armed Forces, Boeing welcomes the defence spending increase and has seen first-hand how defence infrastructure investments, such as the £100 million Atlantic Building and new E-7 facilities at RAF Lossiemouth, can deliver for local jobs, suppliers and UK national security.

    Michelle Ferguson, Director, CBI Scotland, said:

    Scotland’s energy and defence sectors are vital to our economy, driving investment and supporting thousands of skilled jobs. The Chancellor’s announcement of £200 million for the Acorn energy project is very encouraging, but businesses are eager for final approval to unlock its full potential and secure North Sea jobs. Increased defence spending will further boost Scotland’s skilled workforce and create growth opportunities across key supply-chain. Close collaboration between the Scottish and UK governments will be essential to fully realise these benefits, driving forward national security and Scotland’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.

    Mark Sommerfeld, UK Director of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, said:

    The Chancellor’s visit to Acorn further highlights the importance of CCUS in securing the future of our foundational industries and delivering a secure low carbon power system – both in Scotland and across the UK. The Government’s commitment to CCUS means that thousands of skilled jobs will be protected, with thousands more created across our industrial heartlands – delivering economic growth and clean power. 

    To maintain global leadership in CCUS and realise the full benefits for our industrial communities, we need to see clear deployment pathways for both Acorn and Viking CCS, as well as other projects developing at pace across the UK. By doing so, the Government can deliver on its economic growth mission and climate goals.

    Katy Heidenreich, Offshore Energies UK Supply Chain and People Director said: 

    We share the Chancellor’s commitment to Scotland’s energy future. Our industry plays a vital role in delivering jobs, growth, and energy security through the production of homegrown energy.

    Government support for projects like Acorn is crucial. The UK Government has committed £200 million in development funding to Acorn — Scotland’s flagship carbon capture and storage initiative — marking a major milestone in advancing the country’s decarbonisation strategy. The project is expected to support around 15,000 jobs during peak construction and repurpose 175 miles of pipeline infrastructure to transport CO₂ from central Scotland to storage.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Govt launches ‘Apna Ghar’ resting facilities for truck drivers across highways

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a move to enhance the safety and well-being of truck drivers during long-haul journeys, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched an ambitious initiative called ‘Apna Ghar’. The programme aims to provide comfortable and hygienic resting spaces for truckers across major highways in the country.

    As of July 1, 2025, a total of 368 ‘Apna Ghar’ units with 4,611 beds have been set up by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at retail fuel outlets along national and state highways. These facilities offer a range of services including dormitory accommodations, restaurants or dhabas, clean toilets, dedicated bathing areas, self-cooking spaces, and access to purified drinking water — all designed to improve the quality of life for truck drivers on the road.

    The initiative has seen a positive response from the trucking community, with a growing number of bookings, app downloads, and user registrations on the dedicated ‘Apna Ghar’ mobile application. Feedback collected from users reflects widespread appreciation for the comfort and convenience these resting spaces provide.

    The information was shared by Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. He said that the initiative is part of the government’s broader commitment to support the country’s trucking workforce and to ensure better infrastructure and working conditions for those who keep India’s supply chains running.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Contributes to Study of Russia’s Wild Reindeer

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On August 2, Russia celebrates Reindeer Day, a holiday dedicated to reindeer and reindeer herding. Rosneft makes a significant contribution to the study and conservation of the population of these animals in the Russian Federation.

    Wild reindeer are a vital link in Arctic ecosystems. Since 2014, the company has been studying the reindeer population in the Krasnoyarsk Territory, in the territories of Evenkia and the Taimyr Peninsula. Large-scale ground and aerial surveys of the animals are conducted annually. Using satellite tags installed on the reindeer, scientists have tracked the annual migration cycle for the first time, and also identified seasonal behavior patterns.

    In 2025, as part of the Tamura corporate environmental program, a new research expedition to study wild reindeer was launched in Western Taimyr. Field work is being conducted by scientists from the Siberian Federal University (SFU). The first group of specialists will travel along the Khatanga River and the upper section of the Kheta River. The total length of the boat routes will be more than 700 km. The second part of the scientific expedition started from Norilsk. Scientists plan to travel by boat along the Pyasina, Dudypta, Tareya, and Pura rivers. Based on the results of the work, the number of reindeer in Western Taimyr and their migration routes will be determined.

    In 2024, as part of the Tamura program, scientists from SFU and Taimyr reserves also conducted a comprehensive census of the number and migration of animals to update data on the state of the Taimyr-Evenki population.

    For many years, the East Siberian Oil and Gas Company (ESOG, part of Rosneft) together with SFU have been implementing the Evenki Deer project. Scientists track the movements, numbers, and habitat characteristics of wild deer in the region. For people living in the taiga and tundra, deer are an important part of their everyday life and culture.

    VSNK also supports research into musk deer, a small deer-like animal rare for Evenkia that lives in Siberia and the Far East. Their secretive lifestyle and size (up to 70 cm at the withers) make them almost invisible. These even-toed ungulates are listed in the Red Book of several regions of Russia and the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature as a vulnerable species. Scientists have conducted work to find musk deer habitats in Evenkia. During the research, their presence was confirmed in an area that was previously considered unsuitable for this rare deer species, and the population size was estimated – it currently stands at 300 individuals.

    As part of the forest reindeer research with the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz (part of the Company’s oil production complex), scientists from the Tobolsk Scientific Station of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences carried out large-scale work in the Kunyaksky Reserve. Based on the results of aerial monitoring, which covered almost 60 thousand hectares, over 100 thousand images were obtained to clarify the reindeer population. The environmental program of RN-Uvatneftegaz is of great practical importance for the Tyumen Region – forest reindeer research has not been conducted in the region for more than 20 years.

    Thanks to the grant support of RN-Vankor (part of the oil production complex of NK Rosneft), SFU scientists have created a teaching aid, Wild Reindeer of Taimyr. The project is aimed at developing scientifically based strategies for the rational use and conservation of a key species-bioindicator of Arctic ecosystems. The aid systematizes extensive data obtained as a result of field and office studies.

    Reference:

    Rosneft pays special attention to environmental issues and biodiversity conservation, implementing the largest comprehensive Arctic region study program since Soviet times. The new Tamura research program, which started in 2024, is designed to update information on the state of key animal species living in the north of Krasnoyarsk Krai. The Tamura program includes studying the Kara subpopulation of polar bears, wild reindeer populations, valuable bird and fish species in the Yenisei estuary. Three expeditions to study the Kara subpopulation of polar bears have already taken place in 2025. In total, ten expeditions will be held in four years.

    Department of Information and AdvertisingPJSC NK RosneftAugust 1, 2025

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: WomenIN Ignites Women’s Month with the Launch of a Bold Multi-Sectoral Campaign and Countdown to WomenIN Festival 2025

    Source: APO

    As South Africa marks the beginning of Women’s Month this August, WomenIN proudly launches a dedicated, multi-sectoral campaign designed to spotlight the everyday advocacy required to shift the narrative around women’s empowerment. While Women’s Month may be a moment of national focus, WomenIN champions the belief that true empowerment is not confined to a single month — it’s a daily, ongoing commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and change.

    This campaign is more than a celebration — it’s a call to action, uniting voices across energy, mobility, mining, retail, customer experience, tech, green economy, and beyond. It sets the stage for the highly anticipated WomenIN Festival 2025, taking place in Cape Town on the 13th and 14th of November, under the theme:

    LIMITLESS: NO LABELS. NO LIMITS. NO APOLOGIES.

    She’s not fitting in — she’s standing out, showing up, and shaking the world. A celebration of authenticity, boldness, and multidimensional brilliance.

    Throughout August and into the months that follow, WomenIN will roll out collaborative activations, workshops, dialogues, and digital campaigns in partnership with leading organizations, changemakers, and grassroots initiatives that are tackling the toughest issues facing women today — from economic inequality to gender-based violence.

    “This work is personal. It’s not just a campaign, it’s our calling,” says Naz Fredericks-Maharaj, Director of the WomenIN Portfolio. “We know that real impact is not created by ticking boxes in August, but by showing up every single day. And yet, during this symbolic month, we rise even higher, because the challenges facing women demand nothing less.”

    The WomenIN team, led by a collective of women who themselves have broken barriers across industries, is working tirelessly — often behind the scenes and often against the odds — to bring this movement to life.

    “While this journey is often challenging, it’s our purpose and passion that fuels us,” adds Naz Fredericks-Maharaj, Director of the WomenIN Portfolio ,  “Every day, we are connecting with organizations, finalizing partnerships, and laying the groundwork for something truly transformative. Our WomenIN Festival will be the heartbeat of this mission — but the build-up is where the real change begins.”

    Already, strategic partnerships are being launched and announced. Many of these partners are NPOs and impact-driven organizations actively addressing systemic challenges and building tangible solutions for women across South Africa and the continent. These alliances underscore WomenIN’s deep commitment to cross-sectoral collaboration, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

    With the stage set for a powerful Women’s Month, WomenIN invites all women, male allies, and stakeholders to join the movement — to rise, to speak, to collaborate, and to break through the barriers that remain.

    Stay connected, stay inspired, and get ready to stand with us at the WomenIN Festival this November.

    Because empowerment isn’t a moment. It’s a movement.

    Whether you’ve followed us from the beginning or you’re only just discovering our work, this is your invitation to join a growing network of changemakers who are louder together, braver together — and better together.

    Visit www.WeAreWomenIN.com to get your ticket, sponsor someone else’s, or explore partnership opportunities.

    Come as you are. Leave ignited.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

    Additional Information:
    https://apo-opa.co/45aKZ54
    https://apo-opa.co/4l9YHv9

    Contact the team:
    info@wearewomenin.com

    About WomenIN (WiN): Empowering Women, Breaking Barriers, Creating Impact:
    WomenIN is a powerful cross-sector movement that connects, inspires, and uplifts women across Africa through collaboration, leadership, and sustainable development. From energy and mobility to retail, gaming, and the green economy, WiN is driving real change by building inclusive ecosystems where women can thrive.

    Through a range of in-person gatherings, digital content, workshops, and sector-specific initiatives, WomenIN provides a trusted platform for female professionals, entrepreneurs, changemakers, and allies to grow together, break silos, and co-create solutions for Africa’s future. With a strong focus on capacity building, leadership development, and market access for female-owned businesses, WomenIN is building a legacy of impact for generations to come.

    Whether you’re a corporate, NPO, SMME, or individual changemaker, there is space for you at the table—because we win when we WiN together.

    For more information, please visit: www.WeAreWomenIN.com.

    About VUKA Group:
    VUKA Group brings people and organisations together to connect with information and each other in meaningful conversations that drive growth and transformation across Africa’s industries. With 20+ years of experience on the continent, the group delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Smart Mobility, Transport, Retail, and Women Empowerment.

    The WomenIN (WiN) portfolio is a flagship initiative of VUKA Group, championing gender inclusivity and creating opportunities for women to lead, influence, and innovate across sectors. With a proudly African team and a commitment to sustainable development, VUKA is creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to rise.

    Learn more at: www.WeAreWomenIN.com

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government welcomes renewable energy investments initiative 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has applauded the launch of a research project investigating how private renewable energy investments in South Africa contribute to equitable social development.

    “Projects like Communities and the Private Renewable Energy Sector: Distributing Social Development Benefits in South Africa (COM-PRES),which support South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), are not only welcome, but are encouraged as the knowledge that will be generated will contribute to driving innovation and investment that bolsters South Africa’s renewable energy capacity,” George said on Friday.

    COM-PRES is a four-and-a-half-year research project, which was launched on 31 July 2025, led by Danish-based social researcher, Dr Marianne S. Ulriksen from the University of Southern Denmark. 

    It will be implemented locally, in partnership with the Centre for Social Development in Africa, at the University of Johannesburg and the Centre for Social Science Research at the University of Cape Town.

    The South African government strongly focuses on integrating renewable energy projects with social development initiatives, particularly through the REIPPPP, which is also part of the country’s ambitious just energy transition agenda.

    “COM-PRES aims to understand how private-sector renewable energy projects can address inequality in affected and surrounding South African communities through novel mandatory community trusts and social development interventions,” Ulriksen said.

    According to Ulriksen, the knowledge and ideas generated at the community level – working collaboratively with community members, local stakeholders and independent power producers – will feed back to national stakeholders, with the aim of providing practical recommendations for designing and managing renewable energy investments to enhance socio-economic outcomes and relations between communities, the industry and government.

    “South Africa can develop a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable energy sector that also supports our efforts to drive sustainable economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • India’s export loss due to higher US tariffs limited to 0.3 to 0.4 pc of GDP: Report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The direct export loss from the higher US tariffs announced on Indian exports could be limited to around 0.3-0.4 per cent of its GDP as the country’s largely domestic-driven economy and its relatively low share of goods exports to the US should provide some cushion, according to a CareEdge Ratings report released on Friday.

    “Not only is India’s overall export dependence relatively low, but its merchandise export exposure to the US is also low at around 2 per cent of GDP, offering additional resilience,” the report contends.

    Moreover, India’s services exports remain outside the scope of these tariffs and should continue to support the external sector, the report states.

    The report also projects the current account deficit (CAD) to remain manageable at 0.9 per cent of GDP in FY26.

    Any diversification in India’s oil imports away from Russia is expected to have a minimal impact on India’s CAD, as the price differential between Russian Ural and the benchmark Brent Crude has significantly narrowed to around $3 per barrel from an average of $20 per barrel in 2023.

    India’s merchandise exports to the US stood at $87 billion in FY25. Electronic goods accounted for the largest share of exports at 17.6 per cent. This was followed by pharma products (11.8 per cent) and gems & jewellery (11.5 per cent).

    The US accounts for 37 per cent of India’s total electronic exports. Select items from this sector have been temporarily exempted from the 25 per cent US tariffs. Additionally, India’s pharma exports to the US (accounting for 35 per cent of India’s total pharma exports) have also been excluded from the tariffs, the report states.

    However, the overarching risk of sector-specific tariff action remains. India has one of the highest numbers of US FDA-approved manufacturing facilities catering to the generic medicine requirements of the US. While tariff uncertainties persist, the sector’s fundamental competitive advantages offer some resilience, the report observes.

    India’s relative tariff advantage for its exports to the US compared to several Asian peers, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and South Korea, has effectively reversed following the 25 per cent US tariff, along with the possibility of an additional penalty linked to India’s trade ties with Russia, according to the report.

    However, India-US trade negotiations are expected to continue and could bring some relief. Still, India is likely to remain cautious about opening sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy, suggesting that the talks may take some time to conclude, the report said.

    Against this backdrop, it is too early to determine the clear winners and losers from the evolving tariff landscape. Volatility in global financial markets is likely to persist, and tariff-related developments will be critical to watch in the coming months, the report added.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What’s the story? Oasis to visit Edinburgh

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    With a week to go until Rock ‘n’ Roll stars Oasis arrive in Edinburgh, we’ve released advice for residents, businesses, and visitors.

    The sold-out shows taking place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Friday 8, Saturday 9 and Tuesday 12 August mark the band’s first appearance in the Capital since 2009 and are expected to draw Supersonic crowds of up to 210,000 fans over the three nights.

    And we won’t just Roll with it. To keep the city running smoothly for everyone, planning has been underway for some time in collaboration with our partners. As the fans Slide Away, we will be making sure key areas surrounding Murrayfield will be tidied up all three nights after each show. We will also be dedicating extra litter collectors for Roseburn Park.

    City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cllr Jane Meagher, said:

    Excitement is building in Edinburgh for Oasis Live 25 as it’s our turn to witness rock history. With all of our partners in the city we’ve been planning for this for some time to make sure we’re ready to welcome thousands of Oasis fans over three nights.

    There will be extra trains, trams, and buses to accommodate concert goers, along with those attending our summer festivals. With this in mind we urge you to plan ahead.

    We are keen for everyone to have an enjoyable experience, not only at the show, but on their way before and after. Whilst we relish hosting the biggest and best events and want everyone attending to truly enjoy themselves, it’s important that we remember our residents.

    We ask that visitors are considerate and respectful of them whilst enjoying our fantastic capital city. We’re urging people to only travel to Murrayfield and the surrounding area if you have a ticket.

    To find out more, and for helpful information in the lead-up to the concerts, visit our dedicated events webpage.

    Please also check the dedicated webpage of the Scottish Rugby Union with detailed advice for attendees.

    Published: August 1st 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Patria Reports Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Patria (Nasdaq:PAX) reported today its unaudited results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. The full detailed presentation of Patria’s second quarter 2025 results can be accessed on the Shareholders section of Patria’s website at https://ir.patria.com/.

    Alex Saigh, Patria’s CEO, said: “In 2Q we made continued progress in leveraging and expanding the diversified platform we’ve built the past several years as fundraising was a solid $1.3 billion in the quarter, bringing our total fundraising over the first half of 2025 to ~$4.5 billion. Reflecting our strong fundraising momentum and confidence in our outlook, we now expect full-year fundraising to be 5%-10% higher than our initial $6 billion target. We also reported 2Q25 FRE of $46 million, or $0.29 per share, representing year-over-year growth of 17% and 11%, respectively. Also, FEAUM grew 6% sequentially and 20% year-over-year, and we generated over $600 million of organic net inflows. Over the first half of 2025 our annualized organic growth rate exceeded 8%.

    While a looming trade war and global economic concerns create potential headwinds, we believe we are well positioned to generate the $200 to $225 million of FRE we are targeting for 2025 as the increased diversification of our platform is paying off in terms of fundraising and profitable organic growth, enhancing our confidence in the three-year targets we introduced at our Investor Day back on December 9th.”

    Financial Highlights (reported in $ USD)

    IFRS results included $12.9 million of net income attributable to Patria in Q2 2025. Patria generated Fee Related Earnings of $46.1 million in Q2 2025, up 17% from $39.5 million in Q2 2024, with an FRE margin of 56.8%. Distributable Earnings were $38.8 million for Q2 2025, or $0.24 per share.

    Dividends

    Patria declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share to record holders of common stock at the close of business on August 15th, 2025. This dividend will be paid on September 15th, 2025.

    Share Repurchase Program

    Patria’s board of directors has authorized a new share repurchase program. Under the repurchase program, Patria may repurchase up to 3 million of its outstanding Class A common shares in the open market, based on prevailing market prices, or in privately negotiated transactions, over a period beginning in August 2025 continuing until the earlier of the completion of the repurchase or August 2026, depending upon market conditions. Patria’s board of directors will review the repurchase program periodically and may authorize adjustments to its terms and size or suspend or discontinue the repurchase program. Such purchases may benefit from the safe harbors provided by Rule 10b-18 and/or Rule 10b5-1, promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The actual timing, number and value of shares repurchased under the repurchase program will depend on several factors, including constraints specified in the Rule 10b-18 and/or Rule 10b5-1, price, general business and market conditions, and alternative investment opportunities. The repurchase program does not obligate Patria to acquire any specific number of shares in any period, and may be expanded, extended, modified or discontinued at any time.

    Conference Call

    Patria will host its second quarter 2025 earnings conference call via public webcast on August 1st, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET. To register and join, please use the following link:

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/rpv5tvp5

    For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, there will be a webcast replay on the Shareholders section of Patria’s website at https://ir.patria.com/ shortly after the call’s completion.

    About Patria

    Patria is a global alternative asset management firm focused on the mid-market segment, specializing in resilient sectors across select regions. We are a leading asset manager in Latin America and have a strong presence in Europe through our extensive network of General Partners relationships. Our on-the-ground presence combines investment leaders, sector experts, company managers, and strategic relationships, allowing us to identify compelling investment opportunities accessible only to those with local proficiency. With 37 years of experience and over $48 billion in assets under management, we believe we consistently deliver attractive returns through long-term investments, while promoting inclusive and sustainable development in the regions where we operate. Further information is available at www.patria.com.

    Asset Classes: Private Equity, Solutions (GPMS), Credit, Real Estate, Infrastructure, and Public Equities

    Main sectors: Agribusiness, Power & Energy, Healthcare, Logistics & Transportations, Food & Beverage and Digital & Tech Services

    Investment Regions: Latin America, Europe and the U.S.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “outlook,” “indicator,” “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “predicts,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words, among others. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our intent, belief or current expectations. Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to our management. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update them in light of new information or future developments or to release publicly any revisions to these statements in order to reflect later events or circumstances or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. Further information on these and other factors that could affect our financial results is included in filings we have made and will make with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including but not limited to those described under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 20-F, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our periodic filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in our periodic filings.

    Contact

    Patria Shareholder Relations
    E. PatriaShareholderRelations@patria.com
    T. +1 917 769 1611

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latvia to get solar-power boost as energy company Sunly receives almost €85 million international financing

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    Latvia is set to get more clean energy as a result of almost € 85 million in international financing for renewable-electricity provider Sunly. Estonia-based Sunly will use the loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and SEB to build four solar parks in Latvia with total capacity of 329 megawatts (MW) – enough to meet the annual electricity consumption of up to 180,000 households.

    The project marks one of Latvia’s most ambitious renewable-energy initiatives to date and will accelerate the Baltic region’s shift to clean power while enhancing Latvia’s energy independence. The financing package includes loans of €35.2 million from the EIB, €35.2 million from the EBRD and €14.4 million from SEB.

    The solar parks are due to be completed by early 2027 and will be located near Matīši village in Valmiera Municipality (54 MW), in Dagda Parish, Krāslava Municipality (90 MW), near Barkava village in Madona Municipality (81 MW) and in Zirņi Parish, Saldus Municipality (104 MW).

    “Latvia’s bold push for hybrid solar infrastructure is exactly the kind of forward-looking investment Europe needs,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Östros. “We are proud to support Sunly’s vision — not just to generate clean power, but to build energy systems that are resilient, flexible, and future-ready. This project is a blueprint for how we can accelerate the green transition while strengthening regional energy security.”

    While the scope of this financing will support the solar component, the broader ambition is to develop all sites as hybrid parks, by subsequently integrating wind energy and battery energy storage systems, aiming to ensure more stable electricity production, improve grid efficiency, and enhance energy security.

    “We’re pleased to build on our partnership with Sunly and support the development of new renewable energy capacity in Latvia,” said Grzegorz Zielinski, EBRD Head of Energy for Europe. “This marks an important step toward strengthening the Baltic region’s energy security and advancing its climate goals. We look forward to contributing our expertise to help scale up this capacity and support the green energy transition.”

    Latvia’s installed solar capacity reached approximately 660 MW at the end of 2024, more than doubling from 305 MW in 2023 and 100 MW in 2022. According to the long-term planning guidelines Energy Strategy Latvia 2050, solar capacity is projected to reach around 1.2 GW by 2030, gradually increasing to 2.0 GW in the baseline scenario by mid-century. Sunly’s large-scale solar projects are set to play a major role in achieving these targets.

    This financing is a significant step toward strengthening Latvia’s economy and energy supply,” said Toms Nāburgs, Sunly’s country manager for Latvia. “By developing large hybrid solar parks, we are not only increasing the country’s renewable energy production capacity but also enhancing energy security and driving economic growth in the regions. These parks will provide long-term benefits to local communities by supporting socially important projects and initiatives, as well as contributing to the country’s broader electrification and subsequent industrialization.

    The solar parks are financed on a non-recourse basis without relying on government subsidies or long-term power contracts and are designed to thrive in a competitive energy market. Sunly has built more than 300 MW of renewable-energy capacity in Estonia, Latvia and Poland over the past five years, with plans to add a further 700 MW over the next two years

    “SEB in the Baltics has been a financial partner for Sunly since 2019 and we are very proud to support company’s ambitious journey in Latvia with the state-of-the-art hybrid solar parks portfolio,” said Ints Krasts, Management Board member of SEB Latvia. “The solar capacities launched in 2027 will ensure diversity of energy sources and will strengthen energy independence of Latvia. This a signature cooperation for SEB Latvia as well as we are supporting it both as a lender and a hedge provider.”

    The project’s total cost is estimated at € 203.9 million, with Sunly providing € 119.1 million. The EIB and EBRD portion of the new financing for Sunly is backed by a guarantee under the InvestEU programme and promotes climate action and economic and social cohesion.

    Background information

    EIB Group

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, the EIB finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and the bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.    

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of the EIB Group’s headquarters for media use are available here. 

    About InvestEU programme

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investments for the European Union’s policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. The InvestEU programme brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments currently available to support investment in the European Union, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is implemented through financial partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment. 

    Sunly  

    Sunly is a renewable energy producer, dedicated to developing and operating renewable energy projects across the Baltics and Poland, while also investing in startups in the electrification sector and selling 100% renewable electricity to consumers in Estonia. At the heart of Sunly’s mission is renewable energy production, playing a crucial role in achieving regional climate goals, energy security, and affordability.

    EBRD

    The EBRD is a multilateral bank that promotes the development of the private sector and entrepreneurial initiative in 36 economies across three continents. The Bank is owned by 79 countries, as well as the European Union and the European Investment Bank. EBRD investments are aimed at making the economies in its regions competitive, well governed, green, inclusive, resilient and integrated.

    SEB

    SEB is a leading northern European financial services group with international reach. We exist to positively shape the future with responsible advice and capital, today and for generations to come. By partnering with our customers, we want to be a leading catalyst in the transition to a more sustainable world. In Sweden and the Baltic countries, SEB offers financial advice and a wide range of financial services. In Denmark, Finland, Norway, Germany and the United Kingdom, we have a strong focus on corporate and investment banking based on a full-service offering to corporate and institutional clients. The international nature of SEB’s business is reflected in our presence in more than 20 countries worldwide, with around 19,100 employees. At 30 June 2025, the Group’s total assets amounted to SEK 4,110bn while assets under management totalled SEK 2,744bn. Read more about SEB Group at sebgroup.com and about SEB Latvia at: Homepage | SEB

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Selected for Inclusion in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, Qualifying It for Inclusion in the Prominent Global X Uranium ETF (“URA”)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    With over $4 billion in net assets, the Global X Uranium ETF is the world’s preeminent ETF providing investors broad exposure to companies involved in uranium mining and the production of nuclear components

    New York, N.Y., Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it has been selected for inclusion in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, following the Index’s semiannual review and subsequent rebalancing.

    Effective as of August 1, 2025, NANO Nuclear’s common stock will be included in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, an Index of Solactive AG which tracks the price movements in shares of companies that have (or are expected to have) exposure to the uranium industry. This particularly includes uranium mining, exploration, uranium investments and technologies (such as NANO Nuclear’s micro modular nuclear reactors under development) related to the uranium industry

    The Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index serves as a benchmark for exchange-traded funds (or ETFs) and other investment products, with NANO Nuclear’s inclusion reflecting its growing presence in the global nuclear energy and uranium supply chain.

    As a result of this addition, NANO Nuclear’s common stock now qualifies for inclusion in the prominent Global X Uranium ETF (ticker “URA”), with approximately $4 billion in net assets, which passively tracks the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index. Notably, the Global X Uranium ETF is the world’s preeminent ETF providing investors broad exposure to companies involved in uranium mining and the production of nuclear components.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Selected for inclusion in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, qualifying it for inclusion in the prominent Global X Uranium ETF (“URA”)

    “Our team has executed well on our stated strategic priorities, strengthening our market position and building collaborations that support our long‑term growth and valuation,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear. “Inclusion in Solactive’s Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index and the Global X Uranium ETF marks these achievements and is another positive step in our trajectory, highlighting our expanding role in the global nuclear energy industry. It is a testament to the hard work being done by our team to steadily grow our company, advance our technologies, and deliver value to our shareholders both now and in the future.”

    “This is an important milestone for NANO Nuclear, and we are proud to be included in Solactive’s coverage of the nuclear and uranium industry,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We continue to take proactive steps to advance NANO Nuclear’s various development programs and initiatives and create shareholder value. This inclusion increases our visibility in the public markets and connects us with investors who are interested in this growing sector. We look forward to leveraging this exposure as we continue to grow and progress our business plans.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements relate to the anticipated benefits of NANO Nuclear’s inclusion in the index and ETF described herein and its plans and goals generally. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act and the May 23, 2025 Executive Orders seeking to streamline nuclear regulation, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TransAlta Reports Strong Second Quarter 2025 Results, Advancement of Strategic Priorities and Reaffirms Guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransAlta Corporation (TransAlta or the Company) (TSX: TA) (NYSE: TAC) today reported its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    “Our strong second quarter results illustrate the value of our diversified fleet and exceptional operational performance. Our Alberta portfolio’s hedging strategy and active asset optimization continued to generate realized prices well above spot prices while environmental credits generated by our hydro and wind assets significantly offset our gas fleet’s carbon price compliance obligation. While we continue to navigate a challenging Alberta price environment, our assets continue to perform well, and we remain confident in achieving our 2025 Outlook,” said John Kousinioris, President and Chief Executive Officer.

    “Our team remains focused on advancing our strategic priorities. We are pleased with the progress on our Alberta data centre strategy and the associated negotiations, which now reflect the Alberta Electric System Operator’s (AESO) approach to large load integration. The AESO currently expects Demand Transmission Service contracts to be executed in mid-September, which will secure each proponent’s access to system capacity. We continue to work closely with our counterparties and are progressing towards the execution of a data centre memorandum of understanding in relation to our system capacity allocation,” added Mr. Kousinioris.

    “Finally, we continue to progress negotiations on conversion opportunities at Centralia and are working towards executing a definitive agreement later this year with our customer for the full capacity of Centralia Unit 2.”

    Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Achieved strong operational availability of 91.6 per cent in 2025, compared to 90.8 per cent in 2024
    • Adjusted EBITDA(1) of $349 million, compared to $316 million for the same period in 2024
    • Free Cash Flow (FCF)(1) of $177 million, or $0.60 per share, remained consistent with the same period in 2024
    • Adjusted earnings before income taxes(1) of $122 million, or $0.41 per share, compared to $112 million, or $0.37 per share, for the same period in 2024
    • Cash flow from operating activities of $157 million, or $0.53 per share, compared to $108 million, or $0.36 per share, from the same period in 2024
    • Net loss attributable to common shareholders(1) of $112 million, or $0.38 per share, compared to net earnings attributable to common shareholders of $56 million, or $0.18 per share, for the same period in 2024

    Second Quarter 2025 Operational and Financial Highlights

    $ millions, unless otherwise stated Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
    June 30,
    2025    		 June 30,
    2024    		 June 30,
    2025    		 June 30,
    2024
    Operational information        
    Availability (%) 91.6   90.8 93.3   91.5
    Production (GWh) 4,813   4,781 11,645   10,959
    Select financial information        
    Revenues 433   582 1,191   1,529
    Adjusted EBITDA(1) 349   316 619   658
    Adjusted earnings before income taxes(1) 122   112 150   256
    (Loss) earnings before income taxes (95 ) 94 (46 ) 361
    Adjusted net earnings after taxes attributable to common shareholders(1) 54   70 84   197
    Net (loss) earnings attributable to common shareholders (112 ) 56 (66 ) 278
    Cash flows        
    Cash flow from operating activities 157   108 164   352
    Funds from operations(1) 252   236 431   490
    Free cash flow(1) 177   177 316   398
    Per share        
    Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders per share(1) 0.18   0.23 0.28   0.64
    Net (loss) earnings per share attributable to common shareholders, basic and diluted (0.38 ) 0.18 (0.22 ) 0.91
    Cash flow from operating activities per share 0.53   0.36 0.55   1.15
    Funds from operations per share(1) 0.85   0.78 1.45   1.60
    FCF per share(1) 0.60   0.58 1.06   1.30
    Dividends declared per common share —   0.06 0.07   0.06
    Weighted average number of common shares outstanding 297   303 297   306


    Segmented Financial Performance

    $ millions

    		 Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
    June 30,
    2025    		 June 30,
    2024    		 June 30,
    2025    		 June 30,
    2024
    Hydro 126   83   173   170  
    Wind and Solar 89   88   191   177  
    Gas 128   142   232   267  
    Energy Transition 19   2   56   29  
    Energy Marketing 26   39   47   78  
    Corporate (39 ) (38 ) (80 ) (63 )
    Total adjusted EBITDA(1)(2) 349   316   619   658  
    Adjusted earnings before income taxes(1) 122   112   150   256  
    (Loss) earnings before income taxes (95 ) 94   (46 ) 361  
    Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders(1) 54   70   84   197  
    Net (loss) earnings attributable to common shareholders (112 ) 56   (66 ) 278  


    Key Business Developments

    Credit Facility Extension

    On July 16, 2025, the Company executed agreements to extend committed credit facilities totalling $2.1 billion with a syndicate of lenders. The revised agreements extend the maturity dates of the syndicated credit facility from June 30, 2028 to June 30, 2029 and the bilateral credit facilities from June 30, 2026 to June 30, 2027.

    Divestiture of Poplar Hill

    During the second quarter of 2025, the Company signed an agreement for the divestiture of the 48 MW Poplar Hill asset, as required by the consent agreement with the federal Competition Bureau and pursuant to the terms of the acquisition of Heartland Generation. Energy Capital Partners will be entitled to receive the proceeds from the sale of Poplar Hill, net of certain adjustments, following completion of the divestiture.

    Recontracting of Ontario Wind Facilities

    During the second quarter of 2025, the Company successfully recontracted its Melancthon 1, Melancthon 2 and Wolfe Island wind facilities through the Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator Five-Year Medium-Term 2 Energy Contract (MT2e). MT2e will replace current energy contracts for the three wind facilities when they expire, extending the contract dates until April 30, 2031, for Melancthon 1 and April 30, 2034, for Melancthon 2 and Wolfe Island.

    Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB)

    On May 27, 2025, the Company announced that it had received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange to repurchase up to a maximum of 14 million common shares during the 12-month period that commenced May 31, 2025 and will terminate on May 30, 2026.

    On Feb. 19, 2025, the Company announced it was allocating up to $100 million to be returned to shareholders in the form of share repurchases.

    During the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Company purchased and cancelled a total of 1,932,800 common shares at an average price of $12.42 per common share, for a total cost of $24 million, including taxes.

    Conference call and webcast

    TransAlta will host a conference call and webcast at 9:00 a.m. MST (11:00 a.m. EST) today, August 1, 2025, to discuss our second quarter 2025 results. The call will begin with comments from John Kousinioris, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Joel Hunter, EVP Finance and Chief Financial Officer, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Second Quarter 2025 Conference Call

    Webcast link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/zpy9addj

    To access the conference call via telephone, please register ahead of time using the call link here: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI215de673b3704e0da46b2a02e0f35bb0. Once registered, participants will have the option of 1) dialing into the call from their phone (via a personalized PIN); or 2) clicking the “Call Me” option to receive an automated call directly to their phone.

    If you are unable to participate in the call, the replay will be accessible at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/zpy9addj. A transcript of the broadcast will be posted on TransAlta’s website once it becomes available.

    Related Materials

    Related materials, including the consolidated financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) will be available on the Investor Centre section of TransAlta’s website at https://transalta.com/investors/presentations-and-events/ and https://transalta.com/investors/results-reporting/ and have been filed under TransAlta Corporation’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

    Notes

    1. These items (Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes, adjusted net earnings (loss) after income taxes attributable to common shareholders, funds from operations, free cash flow, adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders per share, funds from operations (FFO) per share and free cash flow (FCF) per share) are non-IFRS measures, which are not defined, have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Presenting these items from period to period provides management and investors with the ability to evaluate earnings (loss) trends more readily in comparison with prior periods’ results. Please refer to the Non-IFRS financial measures section of this earnings release for further discussion of these items, including, where applicable, reconciliations to measures calculated in accordance with IFRS.
    2. During the first quarter of 2025, our Adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to exclude the impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions and Australian interest income. Therefore, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this earnings release.

    Non-IFRS financial measures

    We use a number of financial measures to evaluate our performance and the performance of our business segments, including measures and ratios that are presented on a non-IFRS basis, as described below. Unless otherwise indicated, all amounts are in Canadian dollars and have been derived from our consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. We believe that these non-IFRS amounts, measures and ratios, read together with our IFRS amounts, provide readers with a better understanding of how management assesses results.

    Non-IFRS amounts, measures and ratios do not have standardized meanings under IFRS. They are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies and should not be viewed in isolation from, as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, our IFRS results.

    We calculate adjusted measures by adjusting certain IFRS measures for certain items we believe are not reflective of our ongoing operations in the period. Except as otherwise described, these adjusted measures are calculated on a consistent basis from period to period and are adjusted for specific items in each period, unless stated otherwise.

    Adjusted EBITDA

    Each business segment assumes responsibility for its operating results measured by adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA is an important metric for management that represents our core operational results.

    During the first quarter of 2025, our adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to remove the impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions, which was included in adjusted EBITDA composition until the fourth quarter of 2024. The adjustment was intended to explain a timing difference between our internally and externally reported results and was useful at a time when markets were more volatile. The impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions was removed to simplify our reporting. Accordingly, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods.

    During the first quarter of 2025, our adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to remove the impact of Australian interest income, which was included in adjusted EBITDA composition until the fourth quarter of 2024. Initially, on the commissioning of the South Hedland facility in July 2017, we prepaid approximately $74 million of electricity transmission and distribution costs. Interest income, which was recorded on the prepaid funds, was reclassified as a reduction in the transmission and distribution costs expensed each period to reflect the net cost to the business. The impact of Australian interest income was removed to simplify our reporting since the amounts were not material. Accordingly, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods.

    Interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization are not included, as differences in accounting treatment may distort our core business results. In addition, certain reclassifications and adjustments are made to better assess results, excluding those items that may not be reflective of ongoing business performance. This presentation may facilitate the readers’ analysis of trends. The most directly comparable IFRS measure is earnings before income taxes.

    Adjusted Revenue

    Adjusted Revenues is Revenues (the most directly comparable IFRS measure) adjusted to exclude:

    The impact of unrealized mark-to-market gains or losses and unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses on commodity transactions.

    Certain assets that we own in Canada and Western Australia are fully contracted and recorded as finance leases under IFRS. We believe that it is more appropriate to reflect the payments we receive under the contracts as a capacity payment in our revenues instead of as finance lease income and a decrease in finance lease receivables.

    Revenues from the Planned Divestitures as they do not reflect ongoing business performance.

    Adjusted Fuel and Purchased Power

    Adjusted Fuel and Purchased Power is Fuel and Purchased Power (the most directly comparable IFRS measure) adjusted to exclude fuel and purchased power from the Planned Divestitures as it does not reflect ongoing business performance.

    Adjusted Gross Margin

    Adjusted gross margin is calculated as adjusted revenues less adjusted fuel and purchased power and carbon compliance costs, where adjustments to revenue or fuel and purchased power were applied as stated above. The Skookumchuck wind facility has been included on a proportionate basis in the Wind and Solar segment. The most directly comparable IFRS measure is gross margin in the consolidated statement of earnings.

    Adjusted OM&A

    Adjusted OM&A is OM&A (the most directly comparable IFRS measure) adjusted to exclude:

    Acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs, mainly comprised of severance, legal and consultant fees as these do not reflect ongoing business performance.

    ERP integration costs representing planning, design and integration costs of upgrades to the existing ERP system as they represent project costs that do not occur on a regular basis, and therefore do not reflect ongoing performance.

    OM&A from the Planned Divestitures as it does not reflect ongoing business performance.

    Adjusted Net Other Operating Income

    Adjusted Net Other Operating Income is Net Other Operating Income (the most directly comparable IFRS measure) adjusted to exclude insurance recoveries related to the Kent Hills replacement costs of the tower collapse as these relate to investing activities and are not reflective of ongoing business performance.

    Adjustments to Earnings (Loss) in Addition to Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization

    • Fair value change in contingent consideration payable is not included as it is not reflective of ongoing business performance.
    • Asset impairment charges and reversals are not included as these are accounting adjustments that impact depreciation and amortization and do not reflect ongoing business performance.
    • Any gains or losses on asset sales or foreign exchange gains or losses are not included as these are not part of operating income.

    Adjustments for Equity-Accounted Investments

    • During the fourth quarter of 2020, we acquired a 49 per cent interest in the Skookumchuck wind facility, which is treated as an equity investment under IFRS and our proportionate share of the net earnings is reflected as equity income on the statement of earnings under IFRS. As this investment is part of our regular power-generating operations, we have included our proportionate share of adjusted EBITDA for the Skookumchuck wind facility in our total adjusted EBITDA. In addition, in the Wind and Solar adjusted results, we have included our proportionate share of revenues and expenses to reflect the full operational results of this investment. We have not included adjusted EBITDA of other equity-accounted investments in our total adjusted EBITDA as it does not represent our regular power-generating operations.

    Adjusted Earnings (Loss) before income taxes

    Adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes represents segmented earnings (loss) adjusted for certain items that we believe do not reflect ongoing business performance and is an important metric for evaluating performance trends in each segment.

    For details of the adjustments made to earnings (loss) before income taxes (the most directly comparable IFRS measure) to calculate adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes, refer to the Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures on a Consolidated Basis by Segment section of the MD&A.

    Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) attributable to common shareholders

    Adjusted net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders represents net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders adjusted for specific reclassifications and adjustments and their tax impact, and is an important metric for evaluating performance. For details of the reclassifications and adjustments made to net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders (the most directly comparable IFRS measure), please refer to the reconciliation of net earnings (loss) to adjusted net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders in the Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures on a Consolidated Basis by Segment section of the MD&A.

    Adjusted Net Earnings (Loss) per common share attributable to common shareholders

    Adjusted net earning (loss) per common share attributable to common shareholders is calculated as adjusted net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders divided by a weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The measure is useful in showing the earnings per common share for our core operational results as it excludes the impact of items that do not reflect an ongoing business performance. Adjusted net earnings (loss) attributable per common share is a non-IFRS ratio and the most directly comparable IFRS measure is net income (loss) per common share attributable to common shareholders. Refer to the reconciliation of earnings (loss) before income taxes to adjusted net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders in the Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures on a Consolidated Basis by Segment section of the MD&A.

    Funds From Operations (FFO)

    Represents a proxy for cash generated from operating activities before changes in working capital and provides the ability to evaluate cash flow trends in comparison with results from prior periods. FFO is calculated as cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital and is adjusted for transactions and amounts that the Company believes are not representative of ongoing cash flows from operations.

    Free Cash Flow (FCF)

    Represents the amount of cash that is available to invest in growth initiatives, make scheduled principal debt repayments, repay maturing debt, pay common share dividends or repurchase common shares and provides the ability to evaluate cash flow trends in comparison with the results from prior periods. Changes in working capital are excluded so that FFO and FCF are not distorted by changes that we consider temporary in nature, reflecting, among other things, the impact of seasonal factors and timing of receipts and payments.

    Non-IFRS Ratios

    FFO per share, FCF per share and adjusted net debt to adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS ratios that are presented in the MD&A. Refer to the Reconciliation of Cash Flow from Operations to FFO and FCF and Key Non-IFRS Financial Ratios sections of the MD&A for additional information.

    Net Interest Expense

    Net interest expense is calculated as total interest expense less total interest income and non-cash items. For detailed calculation refer to the table in the Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to FFO and FCF section of this MD&A. Net Interest expense is a proxy for the actual cash interest paid that approximates the cash outflow in the FFO and FCF calculation. The most directly comparable IFRS measure is total interest expense.

    FFO per share and FCF per share

    FFO per share and FCF per share are calculated using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. FFO per share and FCF per share are non-IFRS ratios.

    Supplementary financial measures include available liquidity, carbon compliance per MWh, fuel cost per MWh, hedged power price average per MWh, realized foreign exchange loss, sustaining capital expenditures, the Alberta electricity portfolio metrics and unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain).

    Reconciliation of these non-IFRS financial measures to the most comparable IFRS measure are provided below.

    Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures on a Consolidated Basis by Segment

    The following table reflects adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes by segment and provides reconciliation to earnings (loss) before income taxes for the three months ended June 30, 2025:

      Hydro Wind &
    Solar(1)    		 Gas Energy
    Transition    		 Energy
    Marketing    		 Corporate Total Equity-
    accounted
    investments(1)    		 Reclass
    adjustments    		 IFRS
    financials
    Revenues 129   59   204   73   38   (67 ) 436   (3 ) —   433  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Unrealized mark-to-market (gain) loss 18   68   71   15   (2 ) —   170   —   (170 ) —  
    Decrease in finance lease receivable —   —   7   —   —   —   7   —   (7 ) —  
    Finance lease income —   2   3   —   —   —   5   —   (5 ) —  
    Revenues from Planned Divestitures —   —   (3 ) —   —   —   (3 ) —   3   —  
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain on commodity —   —   —   —   (2 ) —   (2 ) —   2   —  
    Adjusted revenue 147   129   282   88   34   (67 ) 613   (3 ) (177 ) 433  
    Fuel and purchased power 7   9   106   51   —   —   173   —   —   173  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                    
    Fuel and purchased power related to Planned Divestitures —   —   (1 ) —   —   —   (1 ) —   1   —  
    Adjusted fuel and purchased power 7   9   105   51   —   —   172   —   1   173  
    Carbon compliance costs (recovery) —   1   (8 ) —   —   (67 ) (74 ) —   —   (74 )
    Adjusted gross margin 140   119   185   37   34   —   515   (3 ) (178 ) 334  
    OM&A 13   25   65   18   8   45   174   (1 ) —   173  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                    
    OM&A related to Planned Divestitures —   —   (1 ) —   —   —   (1 ) —   1   —  
    ERP integration costs —   —   —   —   —   (6 ) (6 ) —   6   —  
    Acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs —   —   —   —   —   (1 ) (1 ) —   1   —  
    Adjusted OM&A 13   25   64   18   8   38   166   (1 ) 8   173  
    Taxes, other than income taxes 1   5   5   —   —   1   12   —   —   12  
    Net other operating income —   —   (12 ) —   —   —   (12 ) —   —   (12 )
    Adjusted EBITDA(2) 126   89   128   19   26   (39 ) 349        
    Depreciation and amortization (8 ) (52 ) (74 ) (13 ) —   (4 ) (151 ) 1   —   (150 )
    Equity income —   —   —   —   —   —   —   —   1   1  
    Interest income —   —   —   —   —   7   7   (1 ) —   6  
    Interest expense —   —   —   —   —   (89 ) (89 ) 1   —   (88 )
    Realized foreign exchange gain —   —   —   —   —   6   6   —   —   6  
    Adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes(2) 118   37   54   6   26   (119 ) 122        
    Reclassifications and adjustments above (18 ) (70 ) (80 ) (15 ) 4   (7 ) (186 )      
    Finance lease income —   2   3   —   —   —   5   —   —   5  
    Skookumchuk earnings reclass to Equity income(1) —   (1 ) —   —   —   1   —   —   —   —  
    Asset impairment charges —   —   —   (11 ) —   (2 ) (13 ) —   —   (13 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss —   —   —   —   —   (23 ) (23 ) —   —   (23 )
    Earnings (loss) before income taxes 100   (32 ) (23 ) (20 ) 30   (150 ) (95 ) —   —   (95 )
    1. The Skookumchuck wind facility has been included on a proportionate basis in the Wind and Solar segment.
    2. Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes are non-IFRS measures, are not defined, have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this earnings release.

    The following table reflects adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes by segment and provides reconciliation to earnings (loss) before income taxes for the three months ended June 30, 2024:

      Hydro Wind &
    Solar(1)    		 Gas Energy
    Transition    		 Energy
    Marketing    		 Corporate Total Equity-
    accounted
    investments(1)    		 Reclass
    adjustments    		 IFRS
    financials
    Revenues 99   112   284   79   47   (34 ) 587   (5 ) —   582  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Unrealized mark-to-market (gain) loss 1   8   10   (14 ) 1   —   6   —   (6 ) —  
    Decrease in finance lease receivable —   —   5   —   —   —   5   —   (5 ) —  
    Finance lease income —   2   2   —   —   —   4   —   (4 ) —  
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain on commodity —   —   (1 ) —   —   —   (1 ) —   1   —  
    Adjusted revenue 100   122   300   65   48   (34 ) 601   (5 ) (14 ) 582  
    Fuel and purchased power 3   8   97   46   —   —   154   —   —   154  
    Carbon compliance costs (recovery) —   —   26   —   —   (34 ) (8 ) —   —   (8 )
    Adjusted gross margin 97   114   177   19   48   —   455   (5 ) (14 ) 436  
    OM&A 13   24   42   15   9   42   145   (1 ) —   144  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs —   —   —   —   —   (4 ) (4 ) —   4   —  
    Adjusted OM&A 13   24   42   15   9   38   141   (1 ) 4   144  
    Taxes, other than income taxes 1   4   3   2   —   —   10   (1 ) —   9  
    Net other operating income —   (2 ) (10 ) —   —   —   (12 ) —   —   (12 )
    Adjusted EBITDA(2)(3) 83   88   142   2   39   (38 ) 316   —   —   —  
    Depreciation and amortization (8 ) (47 ) (56 ) (15 ) (1 ) (5 ) (132 ) 1   —   (131 )
    Equity income —   —   —   —   —   1   1   —   2   3  
    Interest income —   —   —   —   —   8   8   —   —   8  
    Interest expense —   —   —   —   —   (80 ) (80 ) —   —   (80 )
    Realized foreign exchange loss(3) —   —   —   —   —   (1 ) (1 ) —   —   (1 )
    Adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes(2) 75   41   86   (13 ) 38   (115 ) 112   —   —   —  
    Reclassifications and adjustments above (1 ) (10 ) (16 ) 14   (1 ) (4 ) (18 ) —   —   —  
    Finance lease income —   2   2   —   —   —   4   —   —   4  
    Skookumchuk earnings reclass to Equity income(1) —   (2 ) —   —   —   2   —   —   —   —  
    Asset impairment (charges) reversals —   (1 ) —   1   —   (5 ) (5 ) —   —   (5 )
    Gain on sale of assets and other(3) —   —   —   1   —   —   1   —   —   1  
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss(3) —   —   —   —   —   (1 ) (1 ) —   —   (1 )
    Earnings (loss) before income taxes 74   30   72   3   37   (122 ) 94   —   —   94  
    1. The Skookumchuck wind facility has been included on a proportionate basis in the Wind and Solar segment.
    2. Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes are non-IFRS measures, are not defined, have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this earnings release.
    3. During the first quarter of 2025, our Adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to exclude the impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions and Australian interest income. Therefore, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods.

    The following table reflects adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes by segment and provides reconciliation to earnings (loss) before income taxes for the six months ended June 30, 2025:

      Hydro Wind &
    Solar(1)    		 Gas Energy
    Transition    		 Energy
    Marketing    		 Corporate Total Equity-
    accounted
    investments(1)    		 Reclass
    adjustments    		 IFRS
    financials
    Revenues 215   166   594   227   65   (66 ) 1,201   (10 ) —   1,191  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Unrealized mark-to-market (gain) loss (3 ) 104   39   14   (1 ) —   153   —   (153 ) —  
    Decrease in finance lease receivable —   1   14   —   —   —   15   —   (15 ) —  
    Finance lease income —   3   8   —   —   —   11   —   (11 ) —  
    Revenues from Planned Divestitures —   —   (7 ) —   —   —   (7 ) —   7   —  
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain on commodity —   —   —   —   (2 ) —   (2 ) —   2   —  
    Adjusted revenue 212   274   648   241   62   (66 ) 1,371   (10 ) (170 ) 1,191  
    Fuel and purchased power 11   19   269   149   —   2   450   —   —   450  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Fuel and purchased power related to Planned Divestitures —   —   (3 ) —   —   —   (3 ) —   3   —  
    Adjusted fuel and purchased power 11   19   266   149   —   2   447   —   3   450  
    Carbon compliance costs (recovery) —   2   41   —   —   (68 ) (25 ) —   —   (25 )
    Adjusted gross margin 201   253   341   92   62   —   949   (10 ) (173 ) 766  
    OM&A 26   54   124   35   15   94   348   (2 ) —   346  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    OM&A related to Planned Divestitures —   —   (3 ) —   —   —   (3 ) —   3   —  
    ERP integration costs —   —   —   —   —   (10 ) (10 ) —   10   —  
    Acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs —   —   —   —   —   (5 ) (5 ) —   5   —  
    Adjusted OM&A 26   54   121   35   15   79   330   (2 ) 18   346  
    Taxes, other than income taxes 2   10   10   1   —   1   24   —   —   24  
    Net other operating income —   (4 ) (22 ) —   —   —   (26 ) —   —   (26 )
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Insurance recovery —   2   —   —   —   —   2   —   (2 ) —  
    Adjusted net other operating income —   (2 ) (22 ) —   —   —   (24 ) —   (2 ) (26 )
    Adjusted EBITDA(2) 173   191   232   56   47   (80 ) 619        
    Depreciation and amortization (17 ) (105 ) (138 ) (28 ) (2 ) (9 ) (299 ) 3   —   (296 )
    Equity income —   —   —   —   —   (1 ) (1 ) —   4   3  
    Interest income —   —   —   —   —   12   12   (1 ) —   11  
    Interest expense —   —   —   —   —   (183 ) (183 ) 2   —   (181 )
    Realized foreign exchange gain —   —   —   —   —   2   2   —   —   2  
    Adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes(2) 156   86   94   28   45   (259 ) 150        
    Reclassifications and adjustments above 3   (106 ) (60 ) (14 ) 3   (15 ) (189 )      
    Finance lease income —   3   8   —   —   —   11   —   —   11  
    Skookumchuk earnings reclass to Equity income(1) —   (4 ) —   —   —   4   —   —   —   —  
    Fair value change in contingent consideration payable —   —   34   —   —   —   34   —   —   34  
    Asset impairment (charges) reversals —   —   (34 ) 13   —   (7 ) (28 ) —   —   (28 )
    Loss on sale of assets and other —   —   —   —   —   (1 ) (1 ) —   —   (1 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss —   —   —   —   —   (23 ) (23 ) —   —   (23 )
    Earnings (loss) before income taxes 159   (21 ) 42   27   48   (301 ) (46 ) —   —   (46 )
    1. The Skookumchuck wind facility has been included on a proportionate basis in the Wind and Solar segment.
    2. Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes are non-IFRS measures, are not defined, have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this earnings release.

    The following table reflects adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes by segment and provides reconciliation to earnings (loss) before income taxes for the six months ended June 30, 2024:

      Hydro Wind &
    Solar(1)    		 Gas Energy
    Transition    		 Energy
    Marketing    		 Corporate Total Equity-
    accounted
    investments(1)    		 Reclass
    adjustments    		 IFRS
    financials
    Revenues 211   251   717   296   99   (34 ) 1,540   (11 ) —   1,529  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Unrealized mark-to-market (gain) loss (4 ) (13 ) (81 ) (20 ) (2 ) —   (120 ) —   120   —  
    Decrease in finance lease receivable —   1   9   —   —   —   10   —   (10 ) —  
    Finance lease income —   3   3   —   —   —   6   —   (6 ) —  
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain on commodity —   —   (2 ) —   —   —   (2 ) —   2   —  
    Adjusted revenue 207   242   646   276   97   (34 ) 1,434   (11 ) 106   1,529  
    Fuel and purchased power 9   17   239   212   —   —   477   —   —   477  
    Carbon compliance costs (recovery) —   —   66   —   —   (34 ) 32   —   —   32  
    Adjusted gross margin 198   225   341   64   97   —   925   (11 ) 106   1,020  
    OM&A 26   44   88   33   19   70   280   (2 ) —   278  
    Reclassifications and adjustments:                  
    Acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs —   —   —   —   —   (7 ) (7 ) —   7   —  
    Adjusted OM&A 26   44   88   33   19   63   273   (2 ) 7   278  
    Taxes, other than income taxes 2   8   6   2   —   —   18   (1 ) —   17  
    Net other operating income —   (4 ) (20 ) —   —   —   (24 ) —   —   (24 )
    Adjusted EBITDA(2)(3) 170   177   267   29   78   (63 ) 658        
    Depreciation and amortization (15 ) (90 ) (111 ) (31 ) (2 ) (9 ) (258 ) 3   —   (255 )
    Equity income —   —   —   —   —   (1 ) (1 ) —   5   4  
    Interest income —   —   —   —   —   15   15   —   —   15  
    Interest expense —   —   —   —   —   (149 ) (149 ) —   —   (149 )
    Realized foreign exchange loss(4) —   —   —   —   —   (9 ) (9 ) —   —   (9 )
    Adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes(2) 155   87   156   (2 ) 76   (216 ) 256        
    Reclassifications and adjustments above 4   9   71   20   2   (7 ) 99        
    Finance lease income —   3   3   —   —   —   6   —   —   6  
    Skookumchuk earnings reclass to Equity income(1) —   (5 ) —   —   —   5   —   —   —   —  
    Asset impairment (charges) reversals —   (5 ) —   4   —   (5 ) (6 ) —   —   (6 )
    Gain on sale of assets and other(4) —   —   —   1   —   2   3   —   —   3  
    Unrealized foreign exchange gain(4) —   —   —   —   —   3   3   —   —   3  
    Earnings (loss) before income taxes 159   89   230   23   78   (218 ) 361   —   —   361  
    1. The Skookumchuck wind facility has been included on a proportionate basis in the Wind and Solar segment.
    2. Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings (loss) before income taxes are non-IFRS measures, are not defined, have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this earnings release.
    3. During the first quarter of 2025, our Adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to exclude the impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions and Australian interest income. Therefore, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods.

    Reconciliation of Earnings Before Income Taxes to Adjusted Net Earnings attributable to common shareholders

    The following table reflects reconciliation of (loss) earnings before income taxes to adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024:

      Three months ended
    June 30    		 Six months ended
    June 30
      2025   2024   2025   2024  
    (Loss) earnings before income taxes (95 ) 94   (46 ) 361  
    Income tax expense 11   28   18   57  
    Net (loss) earnings (106 ) 66   (64 ) 304  
    Net (loss) earnings attributable to non-controlling interests (7 ) (3 ) (11 ) 13  
    Preferred share dividends 13   13   13   13  
    Net (loss) earnings attributable to common shareholders (112 ) 56   (66 ) 278  
    Adjustments and reclassifications (pre-tax):        
    Adjustments and reclassifications to Revenues 177   14   170   (106 )
    Adjustments and reclassifications to Fuel and purchased power 1   —   3   —  
    Adjustments and reclassifications to OM&A 8   4   18   7  
    Adjustments and reclassifications to Net other operating income —   —   (2 ) —  
    Fair value change in contingent consideration payable (gain) —   —   (34 ) —  
    Finance lease income (5 ) (4 ) (11 ) (6 )
    Asset impairment charges 13   5   28   6  
    Loss (gain) on sale of assets and other —   (1 ) 1   (3 )
    Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain)(1) 23   —   23   (3 )
    Calculated tax (expense) recovery on adjustments and reclassifications(2) (51 ) (4 ) (46 ) 24  
    Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders(3) 54   70   84   197  
    Weighted average number of common shares outstanding in the period 297   303   297   306  
    Net (loss) income per common share attributable to common shareholders (0.38 ) 0.18   (0.22 ) 0.91  
    Adjustments and reclassifications (net of tax) 0.56   0.05   0.50   (0.26 )
    Adjusted net earnings per common share attributable to common shareholders(3) 0.18   0.23   0.28   0.64  
    1. Unrealized foreign exchange (loss) gain is a supplementary financial measure. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this MD&A for more details.
    2. Represents a theoretical tax calculated by applying the Company’s consolidated effective tax rate of 23.3 per cent for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 (three and six months ended June 30, 2024 — 23.3 per cent). The amount does not take into account the impact of different tax jurisdictions the Company’s operations are domiciled and does not include the impact of deferred taxes.
    3. Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders and Adjusted net earnings per common share attributable to common shareholders are non-IFRS measures, are not defined, have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The most directly comparable IFRS measures are net earnings attributable to common shareholders and net earnings per share attributable to common shareholders, basic and diluted. Refer to the Non-IFRS financial measures section in this earnings release for more details.

    Reconciliation of cash flow from operations to FFO and FCF

    The table below reconciles our cash flow from operating activities to our FFO and FCF:

      Three months ended
    June 30    		 Six months ended
    June 30
      2025   2024   2025   2024  
    Cash flow from operating activities(1) 157   108   164   352  
    Change in non-cash operating working capital balances 81   114   198   107  
    Cash flow from operations before changes in working capital 238   222   362   459  
    Adjustments        
    Share of adjusted FFO from joint venture(1) 1   2   3   4  
    Decrease in finance lease receivable 7   5   15   10  
    Clean energy transition provisions and adjustments —   2   —   2  
    Brazeau penalties payment —   —   33   —  
    Acquisition-related transaction and restructuring costs 2   4   8   7  
    Other(2) 4   1   10   8  
    FFO(3) 252   236   431   490  
    Deduct:        
    Sustaining capital expenditures(1) (57 ) (40 ) (80 ) (40 )
    Dividends paid on preferred shares (13 ) (13 ) (26 ) (26 )
    Distributions paid to subsidiaries’ non-controlling interests (2 ) (5 ) (2 ) (24 )
    Principal payments on lease liabilities —   (1 ) (1 ) (2 )
    Other (3 ) —   (6 ) —  
    FCF(3) 177   177   316   398  
    Weighted average number of common shares outstanding in the period 297   303   297   306  
    Cash flow from operating activities per share 0.53   0.36   0.55   1.15  
    FFO per share(3) 0.85   0.78   1.45   1.60  
    FCF per share(3) 0.60   0.58   1.06   1.30  
    1. Includes our share of amounts for the Skookumchuck wind facility, an equity-accounted joint venture.
    2. Other consists of production tax credits, which is a reduction to tax equity debt, less distributions from an equity-accounted joint venture.
    3. These items are not defined and have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. During the first quarter of 2025, our Adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to exclude the impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions and Australian interest income. Therefore, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods. Refer to the Non-IFRS financial measures and other specified financial measures section in this earnings release.

    The table below provides a reconciliation of our adjusted EBITDA to our FFO and FCF:

      Three months ended
    June 30    		 Six months ended
    June 30
    $ millions, unless otherwise stated 2025   2024   2025   2024  
    Adjusted EBITDA(1)(5) 349   316   619   658  
    Provisions (2 ) 6   6   6  
    Net interest expense(2) (66 ) (57 ) (138 ) (105 )
    Current income tax expense (46 ) (33 ) (59 ) (60 )
    Realized foreign exchange gain (loss)(3) 4   (1 ) 2   (9 )
    Decommissioning and restoration costs settled (11 ) (12 ) (20 ) (19 )
    Other non-cash items 24   17   21   19  
    FFO(4)(5) 252   236   431   490  
    Deduct:        
    Sustaining capital expenditures(3)(5) (57 ) (40 ) (80 ) (40 )
    Dividends paid on preferred shares (13 ) (13 ) (26 ) (26 )
    Distributions paid to subsidiaries’ non-controlling interests (2 ) (5 ) (2 ) (24 )
    Principal payments on lease liabilities —   (1 ) (1 ) (2 )
    Other (3 ) —   (6 ) —  
    FCF(4)(5) 177   177   316   398  
    1. Adjusted EBITDA is defined in the Additional IFRS Measures and Non-IFRS Measures of this earnings release and reconciled to earnings (loss) before income taxes above. During the first quarter of 2025, our Adjusted EBITDA composition was amended to exclude the impact of realized gain (loss) on closed exchange positions and Australian interest income. Therefore, the Company has applied this composition to all previously reported periods.
    2. Net interest expense is a non-IFRS measure, is not defined and has no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Refer to the table below for detailed calculation.
    3. Supplementary financial measure. Refer to the Additional Non-IFRS and Supplementary Financial Measures section of this earnings release.
    4. These items are not defined and have no standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. FFO and FCF are defined in the Non-IFRS financial measures and other specified financial measures section in this earnings release and reconciled to cash flow from operating activities above.
    5. Includes our share of amounts for Skookumchuck wind facility, an equity-accounted joint venture.

    Net interest expense in the reconciliation of our adjusted EBITDA to our FFO and FCF is calculated as follows:

      Three months ended
    June 30    		 Six months ended
    June 30
      2025   2024   2025   2024  
    Interest expense 88   80   181   149  
    Less: Interest Income (6 ) (8 ) (11 ) (15 )
    Less: non-cash items(1) (16 ) (15 ) (32 ) (29 )
    Net Interest Expense 66   57   138   105  
    1. Non-cash items include accretion of provisions, financing cost amortization and other non-cash items.

    TransAlta is in the process of filing its unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes, as well as the associated Management’s Discussion & Analysis (MD&A). These documents will be available today on the Investors section of TransAlta’s website at www.transalta.com or through SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About TransAlta Corporation:

    TransAlta owns, operates and develops a diverse fleet of electrical power generation assets in Canada, the United States and Australia with a focus on long-term shareholder value. TransAlta provides municipalities, medium and large industries, businesses and utility customers with affordable, energy efficient and reliable power. Today, TransAlta is one of Canada’s largest producers of wind power and Alberta’s largest producer of thermal generation and hydro-electric power. For over 114 years, TransAlta has been a responsible operator and a proud member of the communities where we operate and where our employees work and live. TransAlta aligns its corporate goals with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Future-Fit Business Benchmark, which also defines sustainable goals for businesses. Our reporting on climate change management has been guided by the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures Standard and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. TransAlta has achieved a 70 per cent reduction in GHG emissions or 22.7 million tonnes CO2e since 2015 and received an upgraded MSCI ESG rating of AA.

    For more information about TransAlta, visit our web site at transalta.com.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release includes “forward-looking information,” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, and “forward-looking statements,” within the meaning of applicable United States securities laws, including the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are not facts, but only predictions and generally can be identified by the use of statements that include phrases such as “may”, “will”, “can”, “could”, “would”, “shall”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “plan”, “forecast”, “foresee”, “potential”, “enable”, “continue” or other comparable terminology. These statements are not guarantees of our future performance, events or results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual performance, events or results to be materially different from those set out in or implied by the forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements about the following, among other things: the strategic objectives of the Company and that the execution of the Company’s strategy will realize value for shareholders; our capital allocation and financing strategy; our sustainability goals and targets, including those in our 2024 Sustainability Report; our 2025 Outlook; our financial and operational performance, including our hedge position; optimizing and diversifying our existing assets; the increasingly contracted nature of our fleet; expectations about strategies for growth and expansion; data centre opportunities, including the AESO’s expectation around the timing of execution of Demand Transmission Service contracts and entering into a data centre memorandum of understanding; opportunities for Centralia redevelopment, including the execution of a definitive agreement with our customer for the full capacity of Centralia Unit 2; expectations regarding ongoing and future transactions, including the sale of Poplar Hill; expected costs and schedules for planned projects; expected regulatory processes and outcomes, including in relation to the Alberta restructured energy market; the completion and closing of acquisition and divestiture transactions which are subject to customary closing terms and conditions, the power generation industry and the supply and demand of electricity; the cyclicality of our business; expected outcomes with respect to legal proceedings; the expected impact of future tax and accounting changes; and expected industry, market and economic conditions.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based on many assumptions including, but not limited to, the following: no significant changes to applicable laws and regulations; no unexpected delays in obtaining required regulatory approvals; no material adverse impacts to investment and credit markets; no significant changes to power price and hedging assumptions; no significant changes to gas commodity price assumptions and transport costs; no significant changes to interest rates; no significant changes to the demand and growth of renewables generation; no significant changes to the integrity and reliability of our facilities; no significant changes to the Company’s debt and credit ratings; no unforeseen changes to economic and market conditions; no significant event occurring outside the ordinary course of business; and realization of expected impacts from ongoing and future transactions.

    These assumptions are based on information currently available to TransAlta, including information obtained from third-party sources. Actual results may differ materially from those predicted. Factors that may adversely impact what is expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained in this news release include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in power prices; changes in supply and demand for electricity; our ability to contract our electricity generation for prices that will provide expected returns; our ability to replace contracts as they expire; risks associated with development projects and acquisitions; failure to complete divestitures on the terms and conditions specified or at all; any difficulty raising needed capital in the future on reasonable terms or at all; our ability to achieve our targets relating to ESG; long-term commitments on gas transportation capacity that may not be fully utilized over time; changes to the legislative, regulatory and political environments; environmental requirements and changes in, or liabilities under, these requirements; operational risks involving our facilities, including unplanned outages and equipment failure; disruptions in the transmission and distribution of electricity; reductions in production; impairments and/or writedowns of assets; adverse impacts on our information technology systems and our internal control systems, including increased cybersecurity threats; commodity risk management and energy trading risks; reduced labour availability and ability to continue to staff our operations and facilities; disruptions to our supply chains; climate-change related risks; reductions to our generating units’ relative efficiency or capacity factors; general economic risks, including deterioration of equity and debt markets, increasing interest rates or rising inflation; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including potential trade tariffs; industry risk and competition; counterparty credit risk; inadequacy or unavailability of insurance coverage; increases in the Company’s income taxes and any risk of reassessments; legal, regulatory and contractual disputes and proceedings involving the Company; reliance on key personnel; and labour relations matters.

    The foregoing risk factors, among others, are described in further detail under the heading “Governance and Risk Management” in the MD&A, which section is incorporated by reference herein.

    Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully when evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made only as of the date hereof and we do not undertake to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws. The purpose of the financial outlooks contained herein is to give the reader information about management’s current expectations and plans and readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Note: All financial figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

    For more information:

    Investor Inquiries: Media Inquiries:
    Phone: 1-800-387-3598 in Canada and U.S. Phone: 1-855-255-9184
    Email: investor_relations@transalta.com Email: ta_media_relations@transalta.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap (July 21 – 28): SOL Memes & ETH DeFi Drive Market Surge, New Assets on HTX Post Impressive  Gains

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap

    PANAMA CITY, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global crypto exchange, reported robust performance from newly listed assets during the week of July 21 to July 28. Amid ongoing regulatory discussions and evolving technological narratives across the global crypto landscape, HTX’s new listings saw notable growth, driven primarily by the Solana meme coin and Ethereum DeFi ecosystems. Several assets posted market-leading gains, delivering substantial wealth effects for users.

    Solana Meme Mania: VINE and ANI Take the Spotlight

    Solana’s meme coin segment stood out with the strongest performance. Known for their vibrant communities and low barriers to entry, meme coins are often highly volatile and driven by market sentiment. The recent surge reflected both Solana’s high-performance, low-cost infrastructure and investors’ growing appetite for fresh narratives.

    • Vine Coin (VINE): Exploded with a 234% increase this week. Vine, originally a-popular short video sharing platform launched in 2012, quickly amassed a massive user base before being shut down by its parent company, Twitter (now X), in 2017. However, on January 18, 2025, Elon Musk announced he was “considering” VINE’s return, leading to a significant rally for the meme coin launched by VINE’s CEO, @rus.
    • Ani Grok Companion (ANI): Jumped 196%. This AI-focused token blends “gooning” memes with the Grok character, linked to xAI and Elon Musk, creating a unique blend of trending AI topics and playful community engagement.
    • Pudgy Penguins (PENGU): Continued its strong momentum with a 38% increase. PENGU generates revenue through a wide array of toys and merchandise, now available at major retailers such as Walmart and Target. Notably, it’s the first crypto-native brand to break into these mass retail markets, highlighting its lasting market appeal and status as a stable representative within the Meme asset space.

    BSC Ecosystem Flourishes: DONKEY and LISTA Rise

    Outside the Solana Meme frenzy, the BNB Smart Chain (BSC) ecosystem also excelled with impressive performances.

    • DONKEY: A rising star in the BSC Meme sector, recorded an astounding 164% gain. This highlights the BSC community’s ongoing enthusiasm for lighthearted, community-driven assets.  The meme itself originated from CZ’s playful post, “I am a donkey”—a symbol of diligence in Chinese culture, representing those who work hard.
    •  Lista DAO (LISTA): A prominent BSC DeFi asset, rose by 83%. Lista DAO is a decentralized stablecoin lending protocol powered by LSDfi. It allows users to stake, liquid stake, and borrow lisUSD against various decentralized collateral. Lista aims to make lisUSD a leading stablecoin in the crypto space through innovative liquid staking solutions.

    ETH DeFi and RWA Narratives Heat Up: SPK Shines

    The Ethereum DeFi sector also had a strong week, with established blue-chip projects and emerging ventures rebounding. Additionally, investment interest in the Real World Assets (RWA) sector accelerated, driven by the rising trend of tokenizing traditional financial assets.

    • Spark (SPK): Topped this ecosystem’s gainers, up 125%. Spark is an on-chain capital allocator that has deployed $3.86 billion across DeFi, CeFi, and RWA sectors. It significantly boosts capital efficiency by automatically and dynamically adjusting asset allocation based on market conditions, all while maintaining a cautious risk profile.
    • RESOLV surged 37%, Maple Finance (SYRUP) rose 33%, and Convex Finance (CVX) gained 32%, all posting notable increases. Established projects like CVX benefited from the anticipated restructuring of the Curve ecosystem, while newer assets such as SYRUP and RESOLV saw momentum driven by changes to liquidity mining and incentive mechanisms.
    • Ethena (ENA), an RWA project, climbed 34%. Ethena is a synthetic dollar protocol built on Ethereum, designed to offer a crypto-native currency solution that operates independently of traditional banking system infrastructure.

    HTX Hot Token Listing Winners

    New Asset Performance Underscores Platform’s Wealth-Generating Potential

    Overall, wealth generation on HTX remain pronounced this week, driven by hot narratives and multi-ecosystem synergy. Ten assets on HTX surged by over 30%, with five exceeding 50% gains. The combined momentum from hot SOL Meme assets and the resurgence of the ETH DeFi ecosystem undeniably reinforced HTX’s reputation for generating significant wealth for its users.

    As the global crypto market narratives continue to evolve, Meme culture, DeFi innovation, and RWA applications will remain crucial growth engines to watch. Looking ahead, HTX is committed to continually deepening its industry-leading foresight, empowering users to participate in popular sectors at the earliest opportunity and capitalize on industry dividends. HTX will stand by its global users, helping them navigate market fluctuations and uncover new opportunities in every cycle.

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX（formerly Huobi）has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

    To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by HTX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/53598de3-a556-4050-b5e9-5e55e765674e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b011ab4d-49de-4c9e-9a63-f40d562611e4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CNC bids farewell to Hunterston after 20 years

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    CNC bids farewell to Hunterston after 20 years

    After providing continuous armed policing for the last 20 years, today (Fri 1 Aug 2025) the CNC officially ceased operations at Hunterston Nuclear Power Station

    Hunterston Nuclear Power Station

    Having successfully provided continuous armed policing for the last 20 years, today (Friday 1 August 2025) the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) officially ceased operations at Hunterston Nuclear Power Station in Ayrshire, Scotland.

    A carefully planned and managed cessation process has ensured that CNC officers and staff have been supported into redeployment, retirement or new roles at other organisations, while business as usual at the site remained unaffected.

    Chief Constable Simon Chesterman, showed his appreciation, saying:

    “I would like to thank all the CNC officers and staff who have worked hard to protect the Hunterston site over the past two decades. Their positive and professional outlook throughout those years has been exemplary.

    “This same professional approach has ensured the CNC maintained business as usual, providing high level armed policing as it always has done at the site, whilst simultaneously carrying out a complex cessation process with professionalism and commitment.

    “Many colleagues have supported the cessation process, and I would like to pay tribute to them for all the hard work which has gone on behind the scenes to make the cessation process a success.”  

    The cessation was the first the force has been part of since withdrawing from Wylfa, in Wales, in April 2016. The cessation process is part of the normal business cycle for licenced civil nuclear sites – once a nuclear power station ceases generation and defueling operations are concluded, the site security classification can be downgraded.

    The formal cessation process was carried out by the CNC in coordination with key partners, including EDF, the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).  

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 August 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia Presents Report on Application of Space Technologies to Monitor Greenhouse Gases at APEC

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation has prepared a report entitled “Monitoring Greenhouse Gas Emissions in APEC: Space Solutions.” The document is posted on the official website the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. The report reflects the key findings and recommendations of the international expert roundtable, which took place on March 14, 2025 under the auspices of the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia.

    The report is a systematic review of the practices of using satellite technologies in climate monitoring with an emphasis on the potential for their scaling in the Asia-Pacific region. The document collects key recommendations from international organizations. In particular, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), as well as the public sector, academic and business communities of APEC member economies, including Russia, Indonesia and Thailand.

    “Satellite technologies are becoming an integral element of climate architecture. Their use ensures the objectivity, efficiency and reproducibility of climate data, especially in conditions where traditional ground infrastructure is limited or unavailable. Russia is consistently developing a climate monitoring system that combines satellite, air and ground tracking methods with advanced computational models. Dialogue at the APEC platform allows us not only to develop high-quality international expertise, but also to strengthen trust between the economies of the region,” commented Evgeniya Drozhashchikh, Deputy Director of the Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects of the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia.

    The materials of the round table present advanced solutions in the field of remote sensing of the Earth, methods of their integration into national greenhouse gas emission inventory systems, approaches to the unification of methodologies, as well as legal and technological aspects of climate data exchange.

    Given that APEC economies account for more than 60% of global CO2 emissions, the issue of creating a transparent and scientifically based monitoring system is becoming fundamental to achieving international climate goals. Satellite data allows not only to map emission hot spots, but also to track their dynamics in the long term.

    The prepared report will serve as a basis for further work by APEC economies to develop technological cooperation and introduce space solutions into national climate management systems.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund Announces Distribution of $0.08 per Share for August 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (the “Company”) announced today a monthly distribution of $0.08 per share for August 2025. This distribution is payable to common stockholders on August 29, 2025 (as outlined in the table below).

    The Company declares distributions on a monthly basis, with its next distribution expected to be declared in early September. Payment of future distributions is subject to the approval of the Company’s Board of Directors, as well as meeting the covenants on the Company’s debt agreements and the terms of its preferred stock.

    Record Date / Ex-Date Payment Date Distribution Amount Return of Capital Estimate
    8/15/25 8/29/25 $0.08 30%(1)


    (1)   This estimate is based on the Company’s anticipated earnings and profits. The final determination of the tax character of distributions will not be determinable until after the end of fiscal 2025 and may differ substantially from this preliminary information.

    Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (NYSE: KYN) is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, whose common stock is traded on the NYSE. The Company’s investment objective is to provide a high after-tax total return with an emphasis on making cash distributions to stockholders. KYN intends to achieve this objective by investing at least 80% of its total assets in securities of Energy Infrastructure Companies. See Glossary of Key Terms in the Company’s most recent quarterly report for a description of these investment categories and the meaning of capitalized terms.

    The Company pays cash distributions to common stockholders at a rate that may be adjusted from time to time. Distribution amounts are not guaranteed and may vary depending on a number of factors, including changes in portfolio holdings and market conditions. 

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer or sale is not permitted. Nothing contained in this press release is intended to recommend any investment policy or investment strategy or consider any investor’s specific objectives or circumstances. Before investing, please consult with your investment, tax, or legal adviser regarding your individual circumstances.

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This communication contains statements reflecting assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions, or beliefs about future events. These and other statements not relating strictly to historical or current facts constitute forward-looking statements as defined under the U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements involve a variety of risks and uncertainties. These risks include but are not limited to changes in economic and political conditions; regulatory and legal changes; energy industry risk; leverage risk; valuation risk; interest rate risk; tax risk; and other risks discussed in detail in the Company’s filings with the SEC, available at www.kaynefunds.com or www.sec.gov. Actual events could differ materially from these statements or our present expectations or projections. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Kayne Anderson undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made herein. There is no assurance that the Company’s investment objectives will be attained.

    Contact investor relations at 877-657-3863 or cef@kayneanderson.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aemetis to Review Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results on August 7, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CUPERTINO, Calif., Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX) announced that the company will host a conference call to review the release of its second quarter 2025 earnings report:

    Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025

    Time: 11 am Pacific Time (PT)

    Live Participant Dial In (Toll Free): +1-888-506-0062 entry code 655740 

    Live Participant Dial In (International): +1-973-528-0011 entry code 655740

    Webcast URL: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2211/52764

    Attendees may submit questions during the Q&A (Questions & Answers) portion of the conference call.

    The webcast will be available on the Company’s website (www.aemetis.com) under Investors/Conference Calls, along with the company presentation, recent announcements, and video recordings.

    The voice recording will be available through August 14, 2025, by dialing (Toll Free) 877-481-4010 or (International) 919-882-2331 and entering conference ID number 52764. After August 14th, the webcast will be available on the Company’s website (www.aemetis.com) under Investors/Conference Calls.

    About Aemetis

    Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas and renewable fuel company focused on the operation, acquisition, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies that lower fuel costs and reduce emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates an 80 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin. Aemetis is developing a sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel fuel biorefinery in California, renewable hydrogen, and hydroelectric power to produce low carbon intensity renewable jet and diesel fuel. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com. 

    Company Investor Relations

    Media Contact:
    Todd Waltz
    (408) 213-0940
    investors@aemetis.com

    External Investor Relations

    Contact:
    Kirin Smith
    PCG Advisory Group
    (646) 863-6519
    ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nigeria takes bold steps toward Hepatitis-free future with World Health Organization (WHO)’s support

    Source: APO


    .

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has collaborated with the Government of Nigeria and hepatitis stakeholders to raise awareness and promote early diagnosis and treatment for World Hepatitis Day 2025. The global event, observed annually on 28 July, raises awareness about viral hepatitis- an inflammation of the liver that can lead to chronic liver disease and liver cancer.

    Hepatitis includes five types: A, B, C, D, and E. In the WHO African Region, over 70 million people suffer from chronic hepatitis B or C, but fewer than 10% are diagnosed or treated. Nigeria, with 325,000 new infections in 2022, ranks third globally in hepatitis prevalence. 

    Chronic hepatitis B and C can lead to liver damage and cancer, even though they are preventable, treatable, and, in the case of hepatitis C, curable.

    This year’s theme, ‘Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,’ calls for action to remove financial, social, and systemic barriers, including stigma, that prevent hepatitis elimination and liver cancer prevention.

    For 2025 World Hepatitis Day, WHO joined the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and its partners to mark the occasion with a ministerial press briefing at the Federal Secretariat, and launched a three-day hepatitis B screening, on the stop vaccinations for those who test negative, and linkage to treatment programme for those who test positive at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.  

    The event at the National Assembly in Abuja brought together health officials, legislators, and the public to address the issue of hepatitis.

    Addressing journalists at the press briefing, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Pate, represented by Dr Godwin Ntadom, Director Public Health Department, FMOH, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to combating hepatitis. 

    He noted that the burden and cost of hepatitis treatment in the country is still very high and, as such, has a huge economic impact on the country and called for collective action in eliminating the disease. 

    Dr Ntadom said, “hepatitis costs Nigeria between ₦13.3 trillion and ₦17.9 trillion annually in direct and indirect costs.
    He also announced, ‘Project 365,’ a nationwide campaign aimed at eliminating Hepatitis C and halting Hepatitis B transmission by 2030. 

    “The project will support the ongoing efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, hepatitis, and STIs, alongside expanding local pharmaceutical manufacturing through funding, the establishment of the Viral Elimination Fund, tax incentives, regulatory reforms, and legislative support.

    Nigeria must no longer hold the third-highest hepatitis burden globally. We have the science, we have the strategy, and we will act together, boldly and urgently, toward a hepatitis-free Nigeria, he said.

    WHO’s Acting Representative in Nigeria, Dr Alex Gasasira, represented by Dr Mya Ngon, cluster lead for  Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) praised Nigeria’s triple elimination initiative for HIV, hepatitis, and STIs, and emphasized the importance of reducing treatment costs, boosting local production, and expanding screening to achieve healthcare equity.

    WHO urges Nigeria and other nations to:
    •    Ensure hepatitis B vaccination within 24 hours of birth;
    •    Integrate hepatitis testing and treatment into primary healthcare services;
    •    Address stigma and misinformation;
    •    Secure sustainable domestic funding for hepatitis programs; and
    •    Protect the rights of individuals living with hepatitis, especially in healthcare and employment.

    She reiterated WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its health systems and expand access to affordable diagnostics, vaccines, and treatments.

    A beneficiary of the screening, Fash Yommie, 53, from Abuja, shared that he took the test to know his status. 

    “I took the test to know my status, and I am relieved to have tested negative. I now understand the importance of hepatitis prevention. I will start taking precautionary measures, such as avoiding sharing needles and ensuring proper hygiene with food and water, to protect myself and my loved ones from infection. I encourage everyone to get tested and vaccinated, as early detection is key to preventing this disease.

    “Early detection and vaccination are crucial in preventing the spread of hepatitis. Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected blood or fluids, hepatitis C via blood-to-blood contact like sharing needles, and hepatitis A and E through contaminated food or water. 

    Nigeria has enhanced hepatitis B prevention by adding the vaccine to the national schedule, supported by WHO, Gavi, UNICEF, and partners, to vaccinate all newborns and children and reduce early transmission.

    This year’s activities reflect the broader goal of integrating hepatitis services into Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, making screening and treatment more accessible to vulnerable populations. 

    The National Assembly event is part of WHO’s ongoing collaboration with Nigeria to achieve universal health coverage and align with the 2030 Global Health Agenda. Through national and local partnerships, WHO supports Nigeria in reducing the hepatitis burden and improving public health outcomes. The three-day screening serves as a reminder that hepatitis is preventable, and everyone has a role in raising awareness and preventing its spread.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Nigeria.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Namibia’s Upstream Petroleum Unit Announces Regulatory Review, Eyes Competitive Restructuring

    Source: APO

    Namibia’s newly formed Upstream Petroleum Unit is currently in the process of conducting a review of the country’s existing regulatory framework with a view to propose policies for the governance of the rapidly evolving petroleum industry. Speaking during the second edition of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit in Walvis Bay last week, Kornelia Shilunga, Special Advisor & Head of Upstream Petroleum Unit in the Office of the Namibian Presidency, explained that these reviews seek to establish an effective and efficient upstream petroleum sector, while paving the way for greater participation by Namibian youth.

    Representing the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) fully supports the Namibian government as it strives to position the petroleum industry as a driving force in economic development. The AEC has long-advocated for the vital role the youth play in Africa’s energy industry and commends the proactive approach by the Namibian Presidency to position youth at the forefront of the sector. Having endorsed the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit, the AEC also commends its Founder Justina Erastus for her commitment to empowering youth.

    The review comes as Namibia pursues first oil production from its Orange Basin discoveries by 2029 and is geared towards strengthening the competitiveness of investing in the country’s upstream petroleum sector. Major discoveries made by international companies such as TotalEnergies, Shell, Galp, Eni and more have positioned the country as one of the world’s most promising frontiers, with ongoing drilling campaigns led by Rhino Resources, BW Energy, Chevron and more setting the country up for future upstream success. With TotalEnergies targeting a final investment decision for the Venus field in 2026 and Galp advancing its Mopane development, Namibia is on track to become a global oil producer by the end of the decade.

    These developments offer strategic benefits for the country and the Upstream Petroleum Unit has committed to ensuring that Namibia’s upstream potential provides several opportunities for its youth. As such, a strategic component of the ongoing reviews – as well as any proposed policies – is youth inclusivity and empowerment. According to Shilunga, “under Namibia’s 8th administration, youth empowerment is a national imperative, not a secondary concern.”

    She explained: “By 2024, a total of 28 offshore oil and gas exploration wells and 15 appraisal wells had been drilled, alongside 10 exploratory wells onshore. The country boasts an estimated 11 billion barrels of oil and approximately 2.2 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, making Namibia a key emerging player in the global energy sector. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that these discoveries benefit our people, especially our youth.”

    The imminent production of offshore oil offers significant opportunities for youth in Namibia, ranging from petroleum engineering to geosciences to offshore operations, environmental and regulatory compliance and logistics and support services. As an industry largely in its infancy stage, Namibia’s petroleum sector requires innovation, infrastructure and adaptive policies to ensure offshore resources are developed in both a productive and sustainable manner. Moreso, the country is uniquely positioned to establish an industry that is geared towards the local market from the get-go – and upcoming regulatory restructuring will play an instrumental part in achieving this goal.  

    Namibia’s youth represent a large share of the country’s population, with approximately 71% of the country’s three million residents under the age of 35. This figure is expected to grow even further, with preliminary estimates showing Namibia’s population exceeding six million by 2050. Therefore, it becomes imperative to ensure current policies reflect anticipated growth trends while positioning the petroleum sector as a driver of economic development and job creation. As such, Namibia’s Upstream Petroleum Unit has challenged stakeholders across the country to collaborate and position youth at the forefront of the industry’s development.

    “I call for shared responsibility in this endeavor and challenge us all. I challenge industry players to invest in capacity building. I challenge the academia to align curricula with current and future energy needs. I challenge we, the government, to accelerate youth-focused reforms and policies. And I also challenge you, our youth, to proactively seek knowledge, ask questions and to build networks,” Shilunga said.

    Through collaboration, the Namibian petroleum industry stands to unlock long-term economic opportunities while leveraging petroleum as a catalyst for sustainable development.

    “This oil and gas revolution must be powered by integrity, led with courage and anchored in inclusion. The youth are not only the future of this industry- but they are also its present momentum,” she noted.

    The AEC believes that youth are essential in Africa’s petroleum industry and the Namibian government recognizes the instrumental role they will play in unlocking innovation, economic growth and inclusive development.

    “By restructuring its regulations and implementing policies that support youth empowerment, Namibia is setting a strong standard for domestic oil and gas development in Africa,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kazakhstan and Russia are exploring technical possibilities to increase oil supplies to China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Almaty, July 31 (Xinhua) — Kazakhstan and Russia will soon complete an analysis of technical possibilities for increasing the transit of Russian oil to China through Kazakhstan, the Kazinform news agency reported on Thursday, citing Kazakh Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov.

    According to the minister, the Russian state oil pipeline company Transneft has asked Kazakhstan to increase the transit of Russian oil to China by up to 2.5 million tons.

    Currently, Transneft and Kazakhstan’s national oil operator KazTransOil are working to study the technical feasibility of increasing supplies.

    “I think they will be completed in the near future, and then we will find a precise answer as to whether it is necessary to build new oil pumping stations /OPS/,” said E. Akkenzhenov.

    According to the minister, it is possible to do without building an oil pumping station, but with the use of specialized additives. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –