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Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Urgent aid must be allowed to enter Palestinian territory

    Source: Scottish Greens

    21 May 2025 Economy Energy

    Patrick Harvie MSP calls on the UK Government to fix broken energy market

    More in Economy

    High energy bills are punishing households and families and baking in high rates of inflation for years to come, say the Scottish Greens.

    The Scottish Greens have called for UK Labour to listen to climate experts, take urgent action to fix the broken energy market, and end the artificial high price for clean green electricity, which is cheap to generate but expensive to consume.

    This comes following the publication of new monthly figures from the Office for National Statistics showing that inflation has jumped to 3.5% in April, the highest level since February last year.

    The ONS has revealed that big increases in utility bills – including electricity and gas bills – have impacted inflation, after changes to the Ofgem energy price cap earlier this year sent April rates soaring.

    Independent climate advisors have advised that the UK Government must act urgently to make electricity cheaper, through rebalancing prices to remove policy levies from electricity bills.

    The Scottish Greens’ climate spokesperson, Patrick Harvie, said:

    “At a time when so many are already struggling to make ends meet, households and families across our country are now facing the highest rates of inflation since February last year.

    “Labour promised to make energy bills cheaper, but they have only gone up. Keir Starmer and his colleagues must urgently step in to make sure that households get the benefit of the low price of renewable energy, to help get inflation under control.

    “This isn’t just about the price cap. Climate experts are clear – out-of-date policy levies on electricity bills are stopping costs from coming down for consumers, and that’s a barrier to people switching away from fossil fuels for heat and transport. So even though home-grown renewable energy is very cheap to generate, that’s not being reflected in the bills people are paying. 

    “We desperately need to fix the broken energy market that is plunging people into poverty all while keeping our reliance on climate-wrecking fossil fuels.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: TMD Energy Limited Announces Strategic Expansion into Oil Waste Collection as Core ESG Initiative

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TMD Energy Limited (the “Company” or “TMDEL”) (NYSE American: TMDE), together with its subsidiaries is a Malaysia and Singapore based services provider engaged in integrated bunkering services which involves ship-to-ship transfer of marine fuels, ship management services and vessel chartering services, today announced a strategic expansion into oil waste collection, marking a significant enhancement of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments. This initiative aims to collect sludge oil and used cooking oil and sell to third-party partners for processing into biodiesel, which also helps diversify the Company’s revenue streams.

    Following a successful Initial Public Offering, the Company is poised to leverage its extensive logistics network and industry expertise to meet the increasing demand for sustainable waste disposal. It plans to collect residual oils from maritime operators and the food industry, facilitating their conversion into cleaner biodiesel. This circular economy approach not only mitigates greenhouse gas emissions but also supports Malaysia’s national commitment to renewable energy adoption.

    Leadership in Sustainable Innovation

    The biodiesel market in Malaysia, supported by government incentives, presents substantial growth opportunities. TMDEL’s entry into this sector aligns with evolving regulatory frameworks and the corporate demand for eco-conscious partnerships. “Our expansion signifies a strategic shift toward long-term environmental stewardship,” stated Dato’ Sri Kam Choy Ho, Chairman and CEO of the Company. “By collaborating with businesses, agencies and environmental organizations, we aim to redefine waste as a valuable resource—transforming sustainability commitments into actionable and scalable solutions.”

    “This initiative reinforces TMDEL’s dual commitment to operational excellence and ecological responsibility. The Company’s established infrastructure ensures efficient collection, and we target to engage in processing and distribution of biodiesel in the near future, so as to position the Company as a key player in Southeast Asia’s green energy transition.”

    “Furthermore, this milestone underscores our vision to lead the bio-green industry while upholding our commitment to exceptional service standards,” added Dato’ Sri Kam Choy Ho. “Every step forward is a step toward a future where economic growth and environmental responsibility coexist.”

    About TMD Energy Limited

    TMD Energy Limited and its subsidiaries (“TMDEL Group”) are principally involved in marine fuel bunkering services specializing in the supply and marketing of marine gas oil and marine fuel oil of which include high sulfur fuel oil, low sulfur fuel oil and very low sulfur fuel oil, to ships and vessels at sea. TMDEL Group is also involved in the provision of ship management services for in-house and external vessels, as well as vessel chartering. As of today, TMDEL Group operates in 19 ports across Malaysia with a fleet of 15 bunkering vessels. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at: www.tmdel.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, the Company’s Offering. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may”, “could”, “will”, “should”, “would”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s financial results filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:
    TMD ENERGY LIMITED
    e-Mail : corporate@tmdel.com

    WFS INVESTOR RELATIONS
    e-Mail : services@wealthfsllc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chair and members of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee appointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Chair and members of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee appointed

    Dr David Cooper named as new Chair; Professor Tom Meagher reappointed and Professor Julia Jones confirmed as new member

    Dr David Cooper has been appointed as the Chair of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC). The appointment was made in conjunction with the devolved governments and is for a three-year term from 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2028.

    Professor Tom Meagher has been reappointed as an independent member of the Committee. Tom’s term will run for four years until 3 April 2029. 

    Furthermore, Professor Julia Jones has been appointed as an independent member of the Committee. Julia’s term will run for three years until 31 May 2028.

    The new appointments have been made on merit and in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    As the UK’s statutory advisor on nature, the JNCC provides scientific evidence and advice to the devolved governments of the UK, the UK government, and the UK’s Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies, to help policymakers turn science into action for nature.

    Biographical details

    Dr David Cooper

    • David Cooper is Visiting Fellow at the Oxford Martin School and Honorary Researcher of the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery at the University of Oxford.
    • David has more than 30 years’ experience in international science and policy, including at the Convention on Biological Diversity and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. As CBD Deputy Executive Secretary and Acting Executive Secretary, he was instrumental in facilitating the development and adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and related agreements.
    • David has contributed to the work of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services among other scientific reports and assessments.
    • He has chaired a number of bodies including the Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management, the Biodiversity Indicators Partnership, and the Inter-agency liaison group on Invasive Alien Species.

    Professor Tom Meagher

    • Tom Meagher has been a member of the JNCC since April 2021. He is Professor of Plant Biology at the University of St Andrews and served as Director of the St Andrews Global Challenges Forum. He was previously a member of the Defra Science Advisory Council and the Natural Environment Research Council.
    • Tom leads an international and interdisciplinary initiative developing novel remote sensing technology to aid the assessment and conservation of plant biodiversity. He has also worked with the British Council, the British Embassy Lima, and government agencies in Peru to promote the establishment of a national botanic garden and plant biodiversity initiative.
    • He has been an active contributor to the Scottish Government’s environmental and conservation science strategy, following his former role as a Trustee of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

    Julia Jones

    • Julia Jones is Professor in Conservation Science at Bangor University and currently holds the Prince Bernhard Chair of International Nature Conservation at Utrecht University.
    • She is a trustee of WWF-UK and is a member of the British Ecological Society and the Society for Conservation Biology. She serves on the advisory board of the Sounds Right initiative, a collaboration between the Museum for the United Nations and the music industry to allow nature to collect royalties from her sounds.
    • She has previously served as the Director of the Low Carbon Energy and Environment Research Network Wales, and on the Welsh committee of the RSPB.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump treats laws as obstacles, not limits − and the only real check on his rule-breaking can come from political pressure

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Andrew Reeves, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Weidenbaum Center, Washington University in St. Louis

    At his inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, Donald Trump swore to ‘preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.’ Morry Gash/POOL/AFP, Getty Images

    Lately, the headlines have been clear: President Donald Trump is headed for a showdown with the courts. If he ignores their rulings, the courts have few tools and limited power to make him comply.

    But the real contest is not legal. It is political.

    As a political scientist who studies presidential behavior and public responses to unilateral action, I have spent my career examining the boundaries of executive power.

    Those limits, aimed at constraining the president, are set in law.

    The Constitution outlines the powers of Congress and the president in articles 1 and 2. It formally gives Congress the power of the purse and requires the president to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.”

    Statutes dictate how agencies operate, how appointments are made and how funds must be spent. Courts interpret and enforce these rules.

    These legal constraints reflect the founders’ concern with unchecked executive power. That concern is embedded in the country’s political origins – the Declaration of Independence was a direct rebuke to royal overreach.

    But law alone has never been enough to prevent presidents from abusing their power. The law’s force depends on political will. Presidents often follow the law not simply because they must, but to avoid backlash from Congress, the media or the public.

    What the United States is witnessing in 2025 is not just a president testing the system. It is a transformation of the presidency into a fully political institution. The president acts until political resistance becomes strong enough to stop him.

    President Donald Trump criticizes judges whose decisions he doesn’t like.

    Testing the limits

    These political constraints are informal and fluid.

    They arise from public opinion, media scrutiny, pressure from party leaders and other elected officials, and the threat of electoral consequences. While legal rules rely on institutions, political limits depend on reputation, norms and the willingness of others to resist.

    Trump’s presidency operates within this second framework. Legal boundaries are still present, but they are often treated by his administration as optional and without deference.

    Trump, for example, has sidelined the Office of Legal Counsel, the executive branch’s source of legal guidance. His focus appears to be not on legality, process or constraint, but on headlines, polling and control of the narrative.

    Courts still issue rulings, but their power depends on a broader political culture of compliance, and that culture is weakening.

    Trump is not the first president to test the limits of authority. But the pace and scale of his defiance are without precedent. He appears to be betting that pushing boundaries will continue to pay off.

    Lag between law and action

    The legal challenges facing Trump are real.

    In his first 100 days back in office, he took aggressive steps on federal spending, appointments to key executive branch positions, tariffs and deportations. Trump has announced he will not enforce legislation that the Supreme Court confirmed was constitutional. Many of these actions have already triggered legal challenges.

    These are not isolated incidents. Taken together, they reveal a broader pattern.

    Trump appears to treat legal rules not as limits but as obstacles to be negotiated or ignored. One recent scholarly paper has described Trump’s approach as “legalistic noncompliance,” where the administration uses the language of law to give the appearance of compliance while defying the substance of court orders.

    The executive branch can move quickly. Courts cannot. This structural mismatch gives Trump a significant advantage. By the time a ruling is issued, the political context may have changed or public attention may have moved on.

    Judges have begun to notice. In recent weeks, courts have flagged not only legal violations but also clear signs of intentional defiance.

    Still, enforcement is slow, and Trump continues to behave as though court rulings are little more than political talking points.

    Politics the only real check

    Trump is not guided by precedent or legal tradition. If there is a limit on presidential power, it is political. And even that constraint is fragile.

    In a February 2025 national survey by the Weidenbaum Center, a research institute that I head at Washington University, just 21% of Americans said the president should be able to enact major policy without Congress. The public does not support unchecked presidential power: A further 25% of respondents, including more than one-third of Republicans, neither agreed nor disagreed that a president should have this type of unchecked power. Of those with an opinion, a solid 72% of Americans oppose unilateral presidential action, including 90% of Democrats, 76% of independents and 42% of Republicans.

    These findings align with nine earlier national surveys conducted during the Obama and Trump administrations. Jon Rogowski and I report these results in our book, “No Blank Check.”

    But one important shift stands out in the recent survey. Support for unilateral executive action among the two-thirds of Republicans who expressed an opinion has reached an all-time high, with 58% of them endorsing presidential action without Congress. That is more than 16 points higher than in any previous wave.

    Despite that rise in partisan support, Trump’s broader political position remains weak.

    His approval ratings remain underwater. His policies on tariffs and federal spending cuts are unpopular. Consumer confidence is falling.

    Congressional Republicans continue to offer public support, but many are watching their own polling numbers closely as the midterms approach.

    If the economy falters and public opinion turns more sharply against the president, political resistance could grow. I believe that’s when legal rules may begin to matter again – not because they carry new force, but because violating them would carry higher political costs.

    Real test still ahead

    So far, no judge has held the Trump administration in contempt of court. But the signs of erosion are unmistakable. Trump recently accused the Supreme Court of “not allowing me to do what I was elected to do” after it temporarily blocked his administration’s effort to deport migrants with alleged ties to Venezuelan gangs. Treating the judiciary as just another political adversary and ignoring its rulings risks an even deeper constitutional crisis.

    The most meaningful check on presidential power will be political.

    Courts rely on the broader political system for enforcement. That support can take many forms: elected officials speaking out in defense of the rule of law; Congress using its oversight and funding powers to uphold court rulings; bureaucrats refusing to implement unlawful directives; and a press and public that demand compliance. Without that support, even the clearest legal decisions may be ignored.

    The legal fights unfolding today are serious and must be watched closely. But Trump is not focused on the courts. He is focused on politics – on how far he can go, and whether anyone will make him stop.

    Andrew Reeves is affiliated with Washington University in St. Louis and the Hoover Institution.

    – ref. Trump treats laws as obstacles, not limits − and the only real check on his rule-breaking can come from political pressure – https://theconversation.com/trump-treats-laws-as-obstacles-not-limits-and-the-only-real-check-on-his-rule-breaking-can-come-from-political-pressure-255834

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Graphitic Energy and Technip Energies Form Collaboration to Scale Clean Hydrogen Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN ANTONIO, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Graphitic Energy (“Graphitic”), formerly known as C-Zero, has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Claremont office of Technip Energies USA to jointly develop and deploy Graphitic’s innovative methane pyrolysis technology. This innovative process utilizes natural gas to produce clean hydrogen and graphite, a crystalline form of carbon used in batteries, lubricants, refractories, and high-temperature industrial processes. The agreement between Technip Energies and Graphitic includes funding dedicated to testing campaigns to support technology advancement. Later this year, the two companies also plan to enter into a licensing collaboration agreement to accelerate the deployment of Graphitic’s technology around the world.

    Graphitic Energy’s groundbreaking methane pyrolysis technology enables the production of clean hydrogen and solid carbon with no direct CO2 emissions. The process is low-electricity-intensive and can be scaled to produce 100,000 metric tons of hydrogen per year in a single process train. The collaboration will leverage Technip Energies’ leading positions in hydrogen generation and fluidized bed technology.

    “Technip Energies is excited to enter into this cooperation with Graphitic Energy and bring forward our recognized hydrogen production experience and fluidized bed expertise to standardize plants globally for the production of hydrogen and synthetic graphite with minimal direct CO2 emissions. The standardized designs will allow for lower pre-investment costs, accelerated implementation time, high predictability on project economics, and reduced overall capital costs. This cooperation underscores Technip Energies’ commitment to delivering sustainable, innovative, cost-effective low-carbon solutions, strengthening our technology portfolio,” said Mario Tommaselli, Senior Vice President Gas & Low Carbon Energies at Technip Energies.

    Unlike other low-carbon hydrogen production paths, Graphitic’s process economics do not require government subsidies to be cost-competitive, and the company can profitably deliver both hydrogen and graphite at current market prices. In addition, the company’s technology can be sited anywhere natural gas or LNG are available, without the need to source renewable electricity or perform geological CO2 sequestration.

    “Graphitic’s technology enables the production of two critical products from natural gas.  We’ve taken it from an idea, through the lab scale, and into a large pilot generating tonnes of graphitic material.  Collaborating with Technip Energies will enable us to get to market faster and provide interested parties with high-quality engineering packages,” said Graphitic’s Co-Founder and CEO Zach Jones.

    In March 2025, Graphitic commissioned its pilot plant in San Antonio, TX. This state-of-the-art facility is capable of producing several hundred kilograms of hydrogen and up to 1,000 kg of solid carbon per day, with continuous 24/7 operations. It is expected to operate through the end of 2025. The company’s pilot is supported by a recent $15 million extension of its series A funding, bringing its total investment to over $65 million.

    About Technip Energies

    Technip Energies is a global technology and engineering powerhouse. With leadership positions in LNG, hydrogen, ethylene, sustainable chemistry, and CO2 management, we are contributing to the development of critical markets such as energy, energy derivatives, decarbonization, and circularity. Our complementary business segments, Technology, Products and Services (TPS) and Project Delivery, turn innovation into scalable and industrial reality.

    Through collaboration and excellence in execution, our 17,000+ employees across 34 countries are fully committed to bridging prosperity with sustainability for a world designed to last.

    Technip Energies generated revenues of €6.9 billion in 2024 and is listed on Euronext Paris. The Company also has American Depositary Receipts trading over the counter.

    For further information: www.ten.com

    About Graphitic Energy

    Headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA with plant operations in San Antonio, TX, Graphitic Energy has developed a novel methane pyrolysis process for sustainably using natural gas to produce hydrogen and graphite. This delivers low-cost, clean hydrogen alongside high-value, graphitic carbon. Unlike current hydrogen generation technologies, Graphitic’s process converts abundant natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon with virtually no direct CO2 emissions. The company has raised over $65 million from investors including Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Energy Capital Ventures, Trafigura, SK Gas, Eni, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, ENGIE, and AP Ventures.

    For more information, visit www.graphitic.com

    Contact Information:
    Sydney Bartone, Business Development Manager
    Sydney.bartone@graphitic.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92634266-17b9-442c-a832-6dc1f35868e6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: KraneShares Launches Strategic Wealth Model Portfolios — An Endowment-Style Approach to ETF Model Portfolios Emphasizing Alternatives and International Exposure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Krane Funds Advisors, LLC (“KraneShares”), an asset management firm known for its global exchange-traded funds (ETFs), today announced the launch of the KraneShares Strategic Wealth Model Portfolios.

    These ETF model portfolios provide a comprehensive, global portfolio solution for financial advisors. They leverage the best of KraneShares’ and their leading asset management partners’ ETFs and market insights, emphasizing liquid alternatives and international exposure.

    “Over the years, we have developed a unique set of ETFs at KraneShares. The Strategic Wealth Models can help investors understand how our ETFs fit into a total portfolio solution,” said Jonathan Krane, KraneShares CEO. “Through combining KraneShares’ strategies and expertise with products and inputs from our partners, we are able to create ETF model portfolios across various risk ranges that are unique in the marketplace.”

    The KraneShares Strategic Wealth Model Portfolios expand global diversification compared to most model portfolio offerings and include 15-20% exposure to liquid alternatives, helping to protect the portfolio when traditional investments decline.

    “We see a shift coming in global markets,” added Jonathan Shelon. “After a decade of US equity outperformance and a dominant US dollar, more globally diversified and alternatives-oriented portfolios will be important for growing and maintaining wealth. We are helping our clients prepare for a shifting macro landscape with our Strategic Wealth Models.”

    The models currently include the following ETFs:

    • KraneShares Value Line Dynamic Dividend Equity ETF (Ticker: KVLE)
    • KraneShares MSCI Emerging Markets ex China Index ETF (Ticker: KEMX)
    • KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF (Ticker: KWEB)
    • KraneShares Hedgeye Hedged Equity Index ETF (Ticker: KSPY)
    • KraneShares Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (Ticker: AGIX)
    • iShares Core US Aggregate Bond ETF (Ticker: AGG)
    • iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (Ticker: USHY)
    • Quadratic Interest Rate Volatility and Inflation Hedge ETF (Ticker: IVOL)
    • KraneShares Sustainable Ultra Short Duration Index ETF (Ticker: KCSH )
    • KraneShares Asia Pacific High Income USD Bond ETF (Ticker: KHYB)
    • KraneShares Mount Lucas Strategy ETF (Ticker: KMLM)
    • KraneShares Global Carbon Strategy ETF (Ticker: KRBN)
    • iShares Mortgage Real Estate Capped ETF (Ticker: REM)
    • KraneShares China Internet & Covered Call ETF (Ticker: KLIP)
    • KraneShares Man Buyout Beta Index ETF (Ticker: BUYO)
    • iShares S&P 500 Growth ETF (Ticker: IVW)
    • iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (Ticker: IJR)
    • KraneShares Bosera MSCI China A 50 Connect Index ETF (Ticker: KBA)
    • iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (Ticker: ICLN)
    • iShares 3-7 Year Treasury Bond ETF (Ticker: IEI)

    For more information on the KraneShares Strategic Wealth Models, please visit portfolios.kraneshares.com/kraneshares-strategic-wealth-model-portfolios/ or consult your financial advisor.

    About KraneShares

    Krane Funds Advisors, LLC is the investment manager for KraneShares ETFs. Our team is determined to provide industry-leading, differentiated, and high-conviction investment strategies that offer access to key market trends. KraneShares offers innovative investment solutions tailored to three key pillars: China, Climate, and Alternatives. Our mission is to empower investors with the knowledge and tools necessary to capture the importance of these themes as an essential element of a well-designed investment portfolio.

    Contact:
    KraneShares Investor Relations
    info@kraneshares.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why your electricity bill is so high and what Pennsylvania is doing about it

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Hannah Wiseman, Professor of Law, Penn State

    Pennsylvanians can expect 10% to 20% increases in their electricity bills over the next three years. Gregory Rodriguez/iStock via Getty Images

    Americans’ electricity bills tend to tick up each year in line with inflation.

    But upgrades to electric wires, reinforcing and protecting power lines from severe weather, and changing fuel costs – among other factors – are sending rates soaring.

    High electricity consumption from data centers and other sources of rising demand will likely cause further increases in the near future.

    The impact on consumers is particularly dramatic in Pennsylvania, where rate hikes are widespread.

    For example, the monthly bill for a PECO residential customer who uses 700 kilowatt hours of electricity monthly increased 10% – or US$13.58 – in 2025. These bills will go up another $2.70 each month in 2026.

    Retail price adjustments approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission for most electric distribution utilities effective December 2024 led to higher bills for many customers across the state. In some parts of Pennsylvania, the estimated increases topped an estimated 30%.

    As professors who work in the areas of energy law and electricity markets, we know electricity costs are rising in many parts of the U.S.

    But Pennsylvania faces distinct challenges related to its electric grid – the maze of wires and generators – that drive both the growing demand for electricity and the limited supply.

    PJM and the electric grid

    Pennsylvania power plants produce a lot of electricity. In fact, the Keystone State is the the largest exporter of electricity in the U.S. and has been for many years.

    But the electricity Pennsylvania produces doesn’t always stay in state.

    That’s because Pennsylvania’s electric grid is managed by a company called PJM. PJM coordinates the flow of electricity through all or parts of 13 states and the District of Columbia, and it ensures the wholesale electricity transmission system operates reliably and safely.

    Pennsylvania electric utilities, such as PECO or Duquesne Light, then distribute this wholesale electricity to retail customers, including homeowners and renters.

    PJM requires the utilities to ensure ahead of time that they can meet their customers’ future electricity demands, including during heat waves and winter storms. This requirement is met using a market called a “capacity auction,” in which electricity suppliers bid to provide physical infrastructure that will generate electricity in the future.

    The prices at the 2025-2026 PJM capacity auction were more than 800% higher than the previous year, in part due to the growing demand for electricity within PJM. This amounts to tens of billions of dollars in extra costs.

    Power plants in Pennsylvania can’t simply stop exporting electricity and supply more in-state power because they dispatch their power into the regional grid operated by PJM, and the flow of electricity is dictated by the physical structure of this grid.

    Pennsylvania shares an electric grid with northern Virginia, considered the largest data center market in the world.
    Nathan Howard via Getty Images

    Soaring demand from data centers

    U.S. electricity demand rose 3% in 2024 and is expected to rise even more rapidly in the coming years.

    Much of this new demand comes from data centers, which support everything from AI applications and data storage – think of the thousands of emails and files backed up on our computers – to sports betting, online retailers such as Amazon, and national security applications such as the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

    Pennsylvania is on the same electric grid as Virginia, which hosts about a quarter of all data center capacity in the Americas. New data centers are also being built in Pennsylvania.

    Rising demand is also driven by the increase in electric vehicles and the replacement of gas- and oil-based furnaces with electric heat pumps. These replacements are ultimately more energy efficient but require electricity.

    Bottlenecks in supply

    The increase in electricity demand within PJM is happening at the same time that supply is shrinking.

    Many old generating plants in the PJM grid are retiring as they near the end of their useful lives and become less profitable for plant operators, particularly as natural gas and solar become more affordable. Some of these older power plants also emit a lot of pollution and are costly to retrofit to meet current pollution limits.

    Beyond the challenge of plant retirements, PJM has been slow to allow hundreds of new proposed power plants – most of them solar- and battery-based – to connect to transmission lines.

    This long “interconnection queue” prevents new, needed generation from coming online. This is happening even though companies are eager and ready to build more generation and battery storage.

    Aging infrastructure and growing weather extremes

    One of the primary recent drivers of high consumer electric bills is that the utilities have been slow to upgrade their aging wires.

    Many have recently made major investments in new infrastructure and in some cases are burying or strengthening wires to protect them from increasingly extreme weather.

    Electricity customers are footing the bill for this work.

    Increasing demand, aging power infrastructure and transmission bottlenecks lead to higher electricity rates.
    David Espejo/Moment Collection via Getty Images

    Response from policymakers

    In response to rising electricity prices, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro filed a legal complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission against PJM in December 2024. This complaint blamed PJM’s capacity auction design for creating unnecessary costs for consumers.

    According to the settlement reached after the complaint, PJM’s price caps will be 35% lower at the next major capacity auction. This reduction in wholesale prices could limit retail price increases.

    But this is at best a temporary fix. It doesn’t address the increasing demand, aging power infrastructure battered by extreme weather, or transmission bottleneck.

    In order for Pennsylvania residents to see lower electric bills anytime soon, more changes are needed. For example, many experts previously observed that PJM needs to fix the queue and get online the many power plants that are ready to build and just waiting for a transmission interconnection.

    While PJM has reformed its queue process, the queue is still long. New power plants are not going up fast enough, in part due to additional challenges such as local opposition and supply chain and financing issues.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.

    Hannah Wiseman receives or has recently received funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, Arnold Ventures, U.S. National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, Center for Rural Pennsylvania, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. She is a member of the Center for Progressive Reform.

    Seth Blumsack receives or has recently received funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, Heising Simons Foundation, U.S. National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, NASA, U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, Center for Rural Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

    – ref. Why your electricity bill is so high and what Pennsylvania is doing about it – https://theconversation.com/why-your-electricity-bill-is-so-high-and-what-pennsylvania-is-doing-about-it-254562

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: China dominates global trade of battery minerals

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    May 21, 2025

    Data source: United Nations Statistics Division, UN Comtrade
    Note: Excludes trade within regions.

    China has a major role at each stage of the global battery supply chain and dominates interregional trade of minerals. China imported almost 12 million short tons of raw and processed battery minerals, accounting for 44% of interregional trade, and exported almost 11 million short tons of battery materials, packs, and components, or 58% of interregional trade in 2023, according to regional UN Comtrade data.

    In this article, we consider trade of three key minerals needed for batteries—graphite, lithium, and cobalt—among China and key global regions. These minerals are mined or extracted from natural and synthetic sources, processed for battery material manufacturing, and then used to produce batteries and battery components, with robust trade at each stage. As global demand for electric vehicles, energy storage, and other energy technologies increases, the importance of these minerals and materials also increases.

    Battery mineral production and raw battery minerals trade
    Lithium is produced through brine extraction or hard rock mining, cobalt is primarily produced as a byproduct of nickel and copper mining, and graphite is mined as a natural ore or synthetically produced from pitch and coke. China domestically produced approximately 18% (33,000 short tons) of the world’s mined lithium in 2023, and Chinese companies control 25% of the world’s lithium mining capacity.

    According to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s Tearline Project, Chinese companies have significant investments in multiple mining and extraction projects in Argentina, giving China access to the lithium triangle, an area in Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile that contains 50% of the world’s lithium. Domestically, China produced 79%, or 1.27 million short tons, of the world’s natural graphite in 2024, according to the U.S. Geological Survey; the United States did not produce any natural graphite that year. Chinese companies own 80% of cobalt production in Congo-Kinshasa, where more than half of global cobalt production is located.

    After production, raw battery minerals are shipped globally to be used as feedstock for refining. China accounted for 46% of the world’s raw battery mineral import trade in 2023, according to the UN Comtrade data. Australia, the world’s largest lithium producer, sent almost all its exports to China alone. China, Australia, and the rest of Asia and Oceania (particularly India and Japan) accounted for 71% of the world’s raw battery mineral import trade in 2023.

    Battery mineral processing and processed battery minerals trade
    China processes over 90% of the world’s graphite, and in 2022, Chinese companies accounted for over two-thirds of the world’s cobalt and lithium processing capacity.

    China imported 20% of the world’s processed battery minerals in 2023, made up of mainly cobalt from Africa. That same year, China exported 58% of the world’s processed battery minerals, mainly synthetic graphite to the rest of Asia and Oceania. China began implementing export restrictions on graphite products related to electrode manufacturing in 2023, and we expect such restrictions to lead to lower graphite exports from China in 2024 and 2025.

    Battery materials manufacturing and battery materials and component trade
    Processed battery minerals are used to produce battery materials, which vary depending on a battery’s chemical composition. China accounted for 53% of the world’s battery material export trade in 2023.

    Battery materials are then used to produce battery components like electrodes, electrolytes, and separators. For example, a lithium-ion battery cell usually includes a graphite anode, lithium-based cathode, and a dissolved lithium salt electrolyte. In 2022, China produced 85% of the world’s anodes, 82% of electrolytes, 74% of separators, and 70% of cathodes.

    China accounted for 74% of the world’s battery pack and component exports in 2023. That same year, China controlled nearly 85% of the world’s battery cell production capacity by monetary value.

    Principal contributor: Gavin Clark

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Power Your Summer Plans with Hot Savings on Samsung Tech

    Source: Samsung

    Summer is heating up at Samsung – and so are the savings.
    The Discover Samsung Summer Sale is coming soon from June 2-8 with big savings on smart home essentials and mobile must-haves to power your summer. Mark your calendar for weeklong offers, curated bundles and new daily deals beginning at 9am ET each day. To get a head start on the savings, download the Samsung Shop App to unlock Early Access to exclusive offers beginning Friday, May 30 at 9am ET.
    Whether you’re planning the ultimate beach weekend, backyard staycation, or backpacking trip, Samsung AI features are here to help you make the most of your summer plans. Explore some of our favorite features for summer and take a peek at current and upcoming offers below.
    For summer travels, let Galaxy AI[1] take the lead on planning. Looking for flights? Hold the side button of your Galaxy S25 and ask Gemini[2] to find deals in real time before saving the results to your Samsung Notes app to easily reference later. Try out local cuisine with ease by pressing the side button of your Galaxy S25 and asking Galaxy AI to translate the menu before providing recommended meal options. And if you want the perfect photo to post, use Galaxy AI’s Generative Edit[3] feature to remove any unwanted background objects.

    Weeklong Deal: Save up to $300 on Galaxy S25 Ultra (promo price: starting at $1299.99)
    Weeklong Deal: Save $60 or up to $150 with eligible trade-in,[4] plus get a case on us with Galaxy Buds3 Pro (promo price: starting at $99.99)

    For backyard dinner parties, your connected kitchen is the ultimate sous chef. Use the AI Home screen[5] on select products in our 2025 Bespoke AI lineup to act as your personal assistant and convenient control center for your smart home. Plan your meals and create grocery lists or view your calendar and leave notes for your family, all from the screen. And once you finish dinner, tackle your sink full of dirty dishes with our latest Bespoke smart dishwasher, the quietest in its class.[6]

    Save up to $1,500 on Bespoke 4-Door French Door with AI Home & AI Vision Inside [7] (promo price: starting at $3,199)
    Save up to $400 on the 38 dBA Bespoke Smart Dishwasher with 3rd Rack Washing System (promo price: starting at $999)

    For movie marathons and more, experience the next big thing in television with Samsung Vision AI[8] on our 2025 TVs. The 2025 Samsung TV lineup offers breathtaking picture and immersive sound, paired with AI-backed features that take your TV to new heights. Use Click to Search[9] for instant info about your shows or movies, or enjoy content in your preferred language with Live Translate[10]. Universal Gestures even lets you control your TV with just a Galaxy Watch[11]. Plus, Samsung Vision AI helps upscale[12] everything you watch into crystal clear resolution, and even adapts your TV’s audio to your room for crisp dialogue and immersive sound. You can also pair your TV with a 2025 Samsung soundbar to amp up the audio even further.

    Happening NOW: Save up to $400 on S90F and S85F series OLED TVs (promo prices: starting at $1,399)
    Happening NOW: Save up to $500 on Q-series soundbars (promo prices: starting at $449)

    We’re also offering great savings on our 2024 OLED TVs, delivering pure blacks, bright whites and Pantone®-Validated color – all backed by powerful AI processors that optimize picture and sound as you watch. Whichever model you choose, you can shop with confidence from the #1 TV brand for 19 years running[13].

    Happening NOW: Save $1,400 on 65” Class OLED S90D (promo price: $1,299)
    Happening NOW: Save $2,100 on 77” Class OLED S95D (promo price: $2,499)

    Check back here next week for even more offers across our home entertainment lineup!
    For on-the-go smart home control, use the SmartThings app[14] on your mobile device. Seamlessly manage your compatible tech with automated routines, whether you’re turning on the lights for your arrival or cranking up the air conditioner on hot days. And with SmartThings Energy’s AI Energy Mode, you can receive personalized tips to help cut down on your energy usage and costs from your Samsung washer to your refrigerator to your TV and beyond.

    Save up to $1,100 on 3 cu. ft. Bespoke AI Laundry Ventless Heat Pump Dryer Combo All-in-One Ultra Capacity Washer with AI Home (promo price: starting at $2,199)
    Click here to download the SmartThings app

    For more on the Discover Samsung Summer Sale and details on the latest offers, visit Samsung.com.

    [1] Galaxy AI features by Samsung are free through 2025 and require Samsung account login.
    [2] Compatible with select apps. Requires Google Gemini account. Results may vary based on input; check responses for accuracy. Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC.
    [3] Generative Edit requires a Samsung account login. Editing with Generative Edit results in a resized photo up to 12MP. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by Galaxy AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    [4] For Samsung Trade-In terms and conditions, click here.
    [5] AI Home LCD Display on RF90F29/23BECRAA Refrigerators accesses AI Vision Inside , Bixby and personalized recipe recommendations based on AI algorithms. Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account required.
    [6] Together with DW90 models, compared to competitor models with MSRP $1399 or less.
    [7] AI Vision Inside can recognize and automatically label 37 unobscured fresh food items such as select fruits and vegetables; other items may be manually labeled. Results vary by manner of placement.
    [8] Samsung Vision Al is only available on 2025 Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED, OLED, QLED and The Frame TV models. Samsung Vision Al features vary by TV model. (Excludes Crystal UHD, FHD and HD TV models).
    [9] Available on certain models only, and on terrestrial, cable TV and Samsung TV Plus.
    [10] Works with antenna broadcast only. Available languages vary and may require download. Translation accuracy not guaranteed.
    [11] Available apps and services may vary and are subject to change without notice. Only supported on Galaxy Watch4 and later models, and Wear OS 5 and higher versions. Galaxy Watch sold separately.
    [12] Viewing experience may vary according to types of content and format. Upscaling may not apply to PC connection and Game Mode.
    [13] Source: Omdia, Feb 2025. Results are not an endorsement of Samsung. Any reliance on these results is at the third party’s own risk.
    [14] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE boosts solar energy skills to support Kyrgyzstan’s clean energy transition

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE boosts solar energy skills to support Kyrgyzstan’s clean energy transition

    To help drive Kyrgyzstan’s transition to clean energy and meet its growing demand for renewables, the OSCE organized a joint initiative in Bishkek focused on both high-level policy dialogue and technical training. This effort was carried out in partnership with the Kyrgyz State Technical University (KSTU) and the Bulan Institute for Peace Innovations.
    On 19 May, over 70 participants – including representatives from government, academia, the private sector, international organizations, and civil society – gathered at KSTU for a roundtable discussion titled “Integration of Renewable Energy Sources into the Energy System of the Kyrgyz Republic and Prospects for RES Development.” The event explored key policy, regulatory, and technical challenges related to scaling up renewable energy – particularly solar and wind power – and examined ways to improve grid integration and expand access to clean energy across the country.
    High-level officials delivered opening remarks, including Dinara Kemelova, Special Representative of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic on Mountain Regions Development; Emilbek Ysmanov, First Deputy Minister of Energy; and  Nicolas Faye,  Ambassador of France to the Kyrgyz Republic.
    Alongside the policy discussions, the OSCE, together with KSTU and the Bulan Institute, launched the first of two hands-on training courses on solar photovoltaic system installation and maintenance. The course brought together 24 electricians from various parts of  Kyrgyzstan – including many from rural and remote areas – to gain practical skills in solar system design, installation, and safety. Notably, the active participation of women in the training marked a positive step toward greater gender equality in the energy sector. A second training is scheduled for June 2025.
    “This initiative goes beyond solar panels – it’s about giving people the skills to shape their own energy future,” said Giulia Manconi, OSCE Senior Energy Security Adviser. “By investing in skills development, we’re not only helping Kyrgyzstan unlock its solar potential, but also creating meaningful jobs, promoting local value, and ensuring an inclusive transition to renewable energy that supports the country’s broader energy and climate goals.”
    By building local expertise, this initiative lays the foundation for the creation of a dedicated Solar Training Centre at KSTU, providing long-term support for Kyrgyzstan’s clean energy transition and offering a model that can be replicated across the region.
    This activity is part of the OSCE project on Promoting Women’s Economic Empowerment in the Energy Sector in Central Asia, funded by Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Norway and Poland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: From Protests to Partnership: Interview with Gerben Dijksterhuis, Mayor of Borsele, Kingdom of the Netherlands

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Gerben Dijksterhuis, Mayor of Borsele, addresses residents who developed a list of conditions for community acceptance of the construction of new nuclear power plants in the municipality. (Photo: Municipality of Borsele, Kingdom of the Netherlands)

    The world’s first major gathering of representatives of communities hosting nuclear facilities will take place in Vienna, Austria, from 26 to 30 May 2025 at the IAEA’s International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes. Gerben Dijksterhuis, Mayor of Borsele, Kingdom of the Netherlands, which hosts the country’s only operating nuclear power plant, discusses key aspects of stakeholder engagement for nuclear power:

    How has stakeholder engagement changed over time?

    In the 1960s and 1970s, there were fierce protests and demonstrations against the arrival of the nuclear power plant, but in recent years we have seen almost no demonstrations. Over the years, the plant operator, EPZ, has learned to communicate openly and transparently. This has contributed to a good relationship with the surrounding community, an important element of EPZ’s ‘licence to operate’. The plant is now seen as a good neighbour.

    Borsele organized a unique citizen participation process in 2023 on upcoming large energy projects, including two nuclear power reactors. What prompted you as Mayor, and the local government, to include citizens in the process?

    People often have strong opinions either for or against nuclear energy, but the decision about whether new nuclear power plants will be built is ultimately made by the national government. So we’ve focused on the interests of the local community and asked the question: “If two additional nuclear power reactors are built, what will that mean for our municipality and residents? Under what conditions would we accept such a development?” By having this conversation, we’re engaging in a discussion about our shared future and deciding what is needed to keep living, working and enjoying life in our region.

    My municipality has over 23 000 residents, so it’s not possible to ask everyone personally about their views on these developments. By randomly selecting 100 residents, we thought we would get a fair range of opinions reflecting the views of all residents. This way, we can look at what’s coming our way as a community with an open mind, without being too influenced by loud supporters or critics. We also wanted to give a voice to young people, who will live with the impact of new nuclear power plants the longest, and to the ‘silent majority’ — residents who are generally less likely to speak out in public debates.

    Over the course of 5 meetings, these 100 residents came up with 39 conditions under which major developments could take place, ensuring that the environmental impact is properly considered.

    We believe that as a local community we should have a voice in projects happening in our area.

    What are some of the common concerns local residents have about nuclear energy projects? To what extent are they different from concerns about other large projects?

    We are somewhat used to big projects because we live next to a large industrial area and an international seaport. However, there are concerns about the impact of the construction: we see in other countries how long it takes, how large the construction site is, and how many people work there. Residents mainly think about noise, dust and light pollution and an increase in construction traffic. There are also concerns about this development in relation to the landscape we are so proud of here.

    Specifically for the nuclear component, people are concerned about the safety of new nuclear power plants and the continuing perception of a lack of a final solution for nuclear waste.

    What is the socioeconomic impact of nuclear energy projects on host communities and neighbouring areas, based on the experience of Borsele?

    About 400 people work at the existing nuclear power plant, and many more are employed indirectly. If the construction of two new nuclear power reactors goes ahead, thousands of additional workers will be needed for 5 to 15 years. This will not only create jobs in the region but also provide opportunities for local businesses, educational institutions and housing development. It is an opportunity to invest in the future of the region, with innovation and progress at the forefront. It’s therefore crucial that, as a government and society, we make timely plans to properly manage these developments. The construction of nuclear power plants affects an entire region, and when new nuclear power reactors are built, cooperation with neighbouring municipalities is essential to prepare for this. This includes planning for housing, infrastructure and education.

    In addition to being Mayor of Borsele, you are President of the Group of European Municipalities with Nuclear Facilities (GMF Europe). Why is it important for nuclear host communities to organize in such associations?

    Nuclear host communities often face or have faced the same challenges. As a network of host communities in different parts of Europe, GMF allows us to learn from each other and find solutions together. We can help each other by sharing information and lessons learned about how to deal with nuclear initiatives. Together, we can also be a stronger voice that is heard in international politics. I am proud that GMF has been invited several times — including by the IAEA — to contribute to new policy and present our vision to participating countries. Together with mayors in Canada and the United States of America, we have also established the Global Partnership of Municipalities with Nuclear Facilities.

    It is equally important to advocate for the position of local communities. They must have a voice in developments that take place in their community.

    What is the advice you would give to communities that are newcomers to nuclear?

    Take an active role, make sure you are well informed, ask the right questions and ensure that the concerns of your community are heard. This not only helps in understanding the impact of nuclear projects, but also ensures that you can actively contribute to decision making and to the process in a way that is in the interest of your community.

    Additionally, it is important to join networks of municipalities. This way, you can jointly influence policy, both nationally and internationally. By working with organizations such as the IAEA, we can ensure that policies take into account the needs of host communities.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Duos Edge AI to Launch Edge Data Center in Victoria, TX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Duos Technologies Group, Inc. (“Duos” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: DUOT), through its operating subsidiary Duos Edge AI, Inc. (“Duos Edge AI”), a provider of adaptive, versatile and streamlined Edge Data Center (“EDC”) solutions tailored to meet evolving needs in any environment, today announced a strategic partnership with Region 3 Education Service Center (ESC) to deploy a new EDC in Victoria, Texas. This marks the latest execution in Duos Edge AI’s national rollout strategy, reflecting continued traction in rural markets and reinforcing the Company’s presence in the education sector.

    The Victoria-based EDC will serve as a highly secure, scalable, local computing hub supporting 37 school districts in the Region 3 footprint. Built on Duos Edge AI’s modular architecture—engineered to SOC 2 Type II compliance and backed by N+1 power redundancy and dual generators—the facility will enable low-latency access to mission-critical workloads including AI-based learning platforms, telemedicine, and EHR systems. This project exemplifies Duos Edge AI’s ability to rapidly deploy infrastructure that meets both community needs and commercial growth objectives.

    Dr. Morris Lyon, Executive Director of Region 3 ESC, commented: “We are proud to partner with Duos Edge AI, Inc. to bring secure, innovative data solutions to the greater Victoria area. The commitment to community-based technology aligns with our mission to support the 37 districts we serve across Region 3. Together, we’re creating a safer, smarter foundation that helps schools and the community focus on what matters most—educating students.”

    Doug Recker, President and Founder of Duos Edge AI, added: “This installation strengthens our position in the education vertical while demonstrating our ability to deliver digital infrastructure in underserved regions. Our partnership with Region 3 ESC accelerates digital equity, expands our market footprint, and contributes to sustainable long-term revenue. We’re also proud to bring new job opportunities to the area and look forward to collaborating with local businesses as we continue investing in the economic and technological future of the Victoria region.”

    This deployment is part of Duos Edge AI’s 2025 roadmap, which targets 15 contracted EDCs by year-end. With nine sites commercially identified and additional real estate and contractual negotiations underway, the Company is on track to deliver scalable edge solutions across Texas, the Southeast, and Midwest -meeting the increasing demand for localized, low-latency compute infrastructure.

    To learn more about Duos Edge AI, visit: www.duosedge.ai   
    To learn more about Region 3 Education Service Center (ESC), visit https://www.esc3.net/
    To learn more about Duos Technologies, visit www.duostechnologies.com   

    About Duos Edge AI, Inc.

    Duos Edge AI, Inc. is a subsidiary of Duos Technologies Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DUOT). Duos Edge AI’s mission is to bring advanced technology to underserved communities, particularly in education, healthcare and rural industries, by deploying high-powered edge computing solutions that minimize latency and optimize performance. Duos Edge AI specializes in high-function Edge Data Center (“EDC”) solutions tailored to meet evolving needs in any environment. By focusing on providing scalable IT resources that seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure, its solutions expand capabilities at the network edge, ensuring data uptime onsite services. With the ability to provide 100 kW+ per cabinet, rapid 90-day deployment, and continuous 24/7 data services, Duos Edge AI aims to position its edge data centers within 12 miles of end users or devices, significantly closer than traditional data centers. This approach enables timely processing of massive amounts of data for applications requiring real-time response and supporting current and future technologies without large capital investments. For more information, visit www.duosedge.ai.

    About Region 3 Education Service Center (ESC)
    The Region 3 Education Service Center is proud to support our 37 public school districts, 52,000+ students, and hundreds of campuses across 11 counties: Calhoun, Colorado, DeWitt, Goliad, Jackson, Karnes, Lavaca, Matagorda, Refugio, Victoria, and Wharton. Spanning over 10,800 square miles, Region 3 ESC is more than a service provider — we’re a committed partner in delivering excellence to every classroom, every educator, and every child we serve. From across our region, our mission remains clear: to improve the performance of all learners. With programs that strengthen instruction, build leadership capacity, support student needs, and fuel innovation, Region 3 is here to help schools thrive — because when our schools succeed, our communities do too. For more information, visit https://www.esc3.net/.

    About Duos Technologies Group, Inc.
    Duos Technologies Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DUOT), based in Jacksonville, Florida, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Duos Technologies, Inc., Duos Edge AI, Inc., and Duos Energy Corporation, designs, develops, deploys and operates intelligent technology solutions for Machine Vision and Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) applications including real-time analysis of fast-moving vehicles, Edge Data Centers and power consulting. For more information, visit www.duostech.com, www.duosedge.ai and www.duosenergycorp.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release includes 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, regarding, among other things, our plans, strategies and prospects — both business and financial. Although we believe that our plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “planned,” “will,” “may,” “intend,” “estimated” and “potential,” among others. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this news release include market conditions and those set forth in reports or documents that we file from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements attributable to Duos Technologies Group, Inc. or a person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary language.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: 
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5fc60761-3dad-4ddc-ae4d-f12a7b296d09

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lelantos Energy Unveils Strategic Initiatives for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TUCSON, Ariz., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN — Lelantos Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lelantos Holdings, Inc. (OTC PINK: LNTO) (“Lelantos” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce its 2025 strategic initiatives focused on expanding access to renewable energy, working with underserved communities, and driving innovation in tax credit and renewable credit monetization.

    Powering Progress: Commercial Solar Expansion

    Lelantos Energy has solidified its partnership with NeRD Power to provide a comprehensive turnkey solution for commercial solar projects. From small businesses to utility-scale developments, the collaboration brings together expert engineering, financing, and installation capabilities. The partnership is exploring further integration to broaden its impact in the commercial solar sector.

    Honoring Veterans: Free Solar 4 Veterans Program

    In an initiative to support U.S. veterans, Lelantos Energy has launched the Free Solar 4 Veterans program in partnership with The Warrior Up Foundation and NeRD Power. This initiative will begin by providing free solar installations to disabled veterans and the widows of fallen soldiers, promoting energy independence and reducing financial burdens. A pilot project is already underway, and a media campaign is being planned to attract broader support and funding. More information can be found at freesolar4vets.org.

    Empowering Communities: Government and Municipal Partnerships

    Lelantos Energy is spearheading a Sustainable Community Network program with its strategic partner, SEDC Solar, for the Washington D.C. Housing Authority. This initiative will provide green energy systems at no cost to over 550 low-income households, supported by a coalition of finance partners and tax-credit incentives.

    In addition, Lelantos is executing a Memorandum of Understanding to form a joint venture with a GSA-certified agency and NeRD Power to develop government-funded solar projects, marking a strategic move into the federal renewable energy space.

    Driving Financial Innovation: Investment Tax Credit Monetization

    As the exclusive sales partner of Coulomb Capital, Lelantos Energy is scaling its Investment Tax Credit (ITC) monetization efforts. With access to a robust network of high-net-worth and institutional buyers, Lelantos has already begun managing high-value ITC transactions. A multichannel marketing strategy is underway to deepen executive outreach and grow the sales pipeline.

    First-Mover Advantage: Carbon and Renewable Energy Credit Platform

    In collaboration with Carbontricity and Electryone Advisors, Lelantos Energy has been given access to a digital platform for the automated issuance and monetization of renewable energy and carbon credits. Compliant with global standards such as M-RETS and I-REC, the platform utilizes blockchain and NFT technology for secure, transparent transactions.

    Holding exclusive rights to this platform in North America through Electryone Advisors, Lelantos is poised to become a first-mover in the next evolution of global carbon trading.

    About Lelantos Holdings

    Founded in the spirit of “Solution Hunting,” Lelantos Holdings’ innovative business structure is purpose-built to acquire or joint venture with established entities in strategic market sectors. With a focus on sustainable energy, Lelantos Holdings has a mission of being at the forefront of innovation in a dynamic industry, and the goal of operating as a vertically integrated entity to reduce overhead and increase service offerings. Their management team is dedicated to fostering innovation and advancing technological developments.

    Lelantos Holdings website: www.Lelantosholdings.io

    About Lelantos Energy

    INNOVATIVE. STRATEGIC. SOLUTION ORIENTED.

    Lelantos Energy offers a forward-thinking solution and a comprehensive approach to adapt to the dynamic landscape of commercial solar, residential solar, microgrid design, energy storage architecture, and EV supercharging. The company has strategically joined forces with experienced and leading industry professionals as well as dedicated lending resources to create a model that will seek to manage project risks, pursue favorable returns (though no guarantees can be made) and support the Company’s efforts to enhance the deployment of renewable energy projects.

    Lelantos Energy website: www.LNTO.Energy

    About the Free Solar 4 Vets Program

    POWERING UP THE LIVES OF OUR VETERANS

    Dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes, the mission of our program is to help veterans secure energy independence and a renewed sense of purpose through programs that empower them economically and socially. Powered by a joint venture among Lelantos Energy, a veteran’s foundation, and a large-scale solar installer, the program aims to utilize donations and a tax equity fund to provide free solar systems for veterans and widows of fallen soldiers.

    Free Solar 4 Vets Program website: https://www.freesolar4vets.org/

    FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

    Certain information set forth in this press release contains “forward-looking information,” including “future-oriented financial information” and “financial outlook,” within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, the information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements and includes, but is not limited to, the (i) projected financial performance of the Company; (ii) completion of, and the use of proceeds from, the sale of the shares being offered hereunder; (iii) the expected development of the Company’s business, projects and joint ventures; (iv) execution of the Company’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to future M&A activity and global growth; (v) sources and availability of third-party financing for the Company’s projects; (vi) completion of the Company’s projects that are currently underway, in development or otherwise under consideration; (vii) renewal of the Company’s current customer, supplier and other material agreements; and (viii) future liquidity, working capital and capital requirements. Forward-looking statements are provided to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand management’s beliefs and opinions in respect to the future so they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor in evaluating an investment. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has provided guidance to issuers regarding the use of social media to disclose material nonpublic information. In this regard, investors and others should note that we announce material financial information on our company website, www.LelantosHoldings.io, in addition to SEC filings, press releases, public conference calls and webcasts. We also use social media to communicate with the public about our company, our services and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media could be deemed to be material information. Therefore, in light of the SEC’s guidance, we encourage investors, the media and others interested in our company to review the information we post on the Company website.

    CONTACT INFORMATION

    Lelantos Holdings, Inc.
    info@Lelantos.Group

    Wire Service Contact:
    IBN
    Austin, Texas
    www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
    512.354.7000 Office
    Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hyperscale Data Provides Business Update; Reports $25 Million in Q1 Revenue and Reaffirms $115–$125 Million Full-Year Revenue Guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hyperscale Data, Inc. (NYSE American: GPUS), a diversified holding company (“Hyperscale Data” or the “Company”), yesterday filed its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The Company reported revenue of $25 million for the first quarter and reaffirms its previous guidance of $115 to $125 million of revenue for the year ending December 31, 2025, citing continued momentum across its artificial intelligence (“AI”) data center, equipment rental and financial services operations. In the first quarter, Hyperscale Data recorded a one-time gain of $10.0 million from the deconsolidation of its former majority owned subsidiary, Avalanche International, Corp. after it filed for bankruptcy protection.

    The Company continues to see strong performance in its AI-driven Michigan data center, which is undergoing a full-scale transition to support high-performance computing infrastructure. The Company expects revenue in the second half of 2025 from askROI, Inc. (“askROI”), the Company’s subsidiary focused on AI software, from enterprise adoption of existing products coupled with revenue from planned new product offerings.

    The Company also reported strength in its equipment rental business, Circle 8 Crane Services, LLC, which serves the Southern United States region across multiple verticals. Energy-related infrastructure projects continue to drive demand for specialized crane and rigging solutions.

    In addition, the Company believes there could be an increase from its financial services segment, particularly its lending operations, where demand for structured credit and asset-backed financing is rising amid broad volatile market conditions. However, unrealized gains and losses from market price changes have caused, and will likely continue to cause, significant volatility in the Company’s periodic earnings in this segment.

    The Company is also seeing positive momentum from its Bitcoin mining activities and is excited for the resumption of Bitcoin mining activities at the Company’s Montana site. Management believes that continued strength in Bitcoin pricing will generate additional revenue in the future.

    The Company is reaffirming its plan to separate non-core operations and spin off Ault Capital Group, Inc. (“ACG”), which will hold all the Company’s non-data center and Bitcoin mining assets and operations. The strategic separation is expected to be completed on or about December 31, 2025, allowing Hyperscale to operate as a focused data center and AI infrastructure business. For more details surrounding this planned divestiture, the Company encourages interested parties to read the About Hyperscale Data, Inc. section of this press release below.

    “The plan to separate the Company and create a pure-play data center business within Hyperscale Data remains on track,” said Milton “Todd” Ault III, Executive Chairman of Hyperscale Data. “The Company is in a strong position to grow its data center business and is very comfortable with the growth and outlook for the AI data center space.”

    For more information on Hyperscale Data and its subsidiaries, Hyperscale Data recommends that stockholders, investors and any other interested parties read Hyperscale Data’s public filings and press releases available under the Investor Relations section at hyperscaledata.com or available at www.sec.gov.

    About Hyperscale Data, Inc.

    Through its wholly owned subsidiary Sentinum, Inc., Hyperscale Data owns and operates a data center at which it mines digital assets and offers colocation and hosting services for the emerging AI ecosystems and other industries. Hyperscale Data’s other wholly owned subsidiary, ACG, is a diversified holding company pursuing growth by acquiring undervalued businesses and disruptive technologies with a global impact.

    Hyperscale Data expects to divest itself of ACG on or about December 31, 2025 (the “Divestiture”). Upon the occurrence of the Divestiture, the Company would solely be an owner and operator of data centers to support high-performance computing services, though it may at that time continue to mine Bitcoin. Until the Divestiture occurs, the Company will continue to provide, through ACG and its wholly and majority-owned subsidiaries and strategic investments, mission-critical products that support a diverse range of industries, including an AI software platform, social gaming platform, equipment rental services, defense/aerospace, industrial, automotive, medical/biopharma and hotel operations. In addition, ACG is actively engaged in private credit and structured finance through a licensed lending subsidiary. Hyperscale Data’s headquarters are located at 11411 Southern Highlands Parkway, Suite 190, Las Vegas, NV 89141.

    On December 23, 2024, the Company issued one million (1,000,000) shares of a newly designated Series F Exchangeable Preferred Stock (the “Series F Preferred Stock”) to all common stockholders and holders of the Series C Convertible Preferred Stock on an as-converted basis. The Divestiture will occur through the voluntary exchange of the Series F Preferred Stock for shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock of ACG (collectively, the “ACG Shares”). The Company reminds its stockholders that only those holders of the Series F Preferred Stock who agree to surrender such shares, and do not properly withdraw such surrender, in the exchange offer through which the Divestiture will occur, will be entitled to receive the ACG Shares and consequently be stockholders of ACG upon the occurrence of the Divestiture.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “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. These forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of them publicly in light of new information or future events. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors. More information, including potential risk factors, that could affect the Company’s business and financial results are included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, the Company’s Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. All filings are available at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at hyperscaledata.com.

    Hyperscale Data Investor Contact:
    IR@hyperscaledata.com or 1-888-753-2235

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cash boost for coastal towns hosting clean energy infrastructure

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Cash boost for coastal towns hosting clean energy infrastructure

    Communities to receive funding for hosting clean energy infrastructure as part of plans to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

    • Britain’s coastal and rural regions to receive a cash boost for hosting the infrastructure needed to make Britain a clean energy superpower
    • communities hosting offshore wind and solar projects in line to receive money from energy developers, to be spent directly on local priorities and services such as community centres, sports facilities, and employment programmes
    • cash boost to regional and local economic growth as part of the Plan for Change

    Britain’s coastal and rural communities will receive a cash boost for new community facilities, better transport links and investment in apprenticeships, under government plans as part of the Plan for Change mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower. 

    The proposals will require community benefits for families, businesses   and local community groups who live near offshore wind, onshore wind and solar farms.

    They would enshrine in law a requirement for renewable developers to pay into community benefit funds, ensuring infrastructure projects contribute to residents’ lives, the local economy and growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    This could include new grassroots football pitches in Welsh seaside towns, initiatives to get young people into employment on the Yorkshire coast to train the next generation of engineers, and funding for transport links and schools in the Scottish highlands.

    Coastal and rural areas will play a significant role in hosting the clean energy projects needed to get energy bills down for good and deliver energy security with homegrown power that Britain controls.

    In recognition, the funding will channel community investment into where it has real impact – with families in the area deciding where the money should be spent. The plans also set out how communities could own a stake in renewable energy infrastructure through shared ownership, resulting in profits being reinvested back into the community and the British people having a stake in the clean energy transition.

    The level of payments to communities will range depending on the size of infrastructure projects, from tens of thousands of pounds a year for small developments and up to millions of pounds per year for largescale developments.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    If you live near an offshore wind or solar farm, your local community should benefit from supporting this nationally critical mission.

    The Prime Minister’s mission to become a clean energy superpower is creating good well-paid jobs in these areas, building the infrastructure we need to get energy bills down for working people.

    Our Plan for Change will revitalise Britain’s coastal and rural communities creating community wealth, better facilities and energy security for the country.

    This will benefit every household in the country by getting the UK off fossil fuel dependency and protecting billpayers from price shocks with clean homegrown power.

    The announcement will build on measures introduced in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill where households within 500 metres of new or upgraded electricity transmission infrastructure will get electricity bill discounts of up to £2,500 over 10 years.

    The proposals seek input on which types of energy infrastructure should be required to pay into community benefit funds, which may include renewable and low-carbon electricity  generation, and energy storage.

    Community benefits are an established part of development for energy infrastructure in many countries, including Ireland, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

    James Robottom, Head of Policy at RenewableUK, said:

    Renewable energy developers have a long history of providing a wide range of benefits for local communities, such as community benefit funds which support local initiatives, electricity discounts, employment initiatives and environmental projects.

    We welcome the government’s consultation and will engage with it to ensure that the benefits received by local communities hosting energy infrastructure are proportionate and continue to meet their needs. Renewable energy developers are good neighbours and remain committed to providing benefits at an appropriate level to enable local communities to thrive all over the country.

    This builds on Monday’s announcement to support coastal communities with the £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, the new SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) agreement that will slash red tape for UK seafood exporters and businesses, and a new twelve-year fisheries access agreement with the EU securing long-term certainty for British fishing fleets.

    The Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund will see investment in new technology and equipment to modernise Britain’s fishing fleet, deliver new training and skills to back the next generation of fishers and promote the seafood sector to export our high-quality produce across the world.

    Notes to Editors

    Read more about the working paper. We are inviting views from industry and stakeholders on the proposals until Wednesday 16 July.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: CBAK Energy to Participate in The Battery Show Europe on June 3, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALIAN, China, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) (“CBAK Energy”, or the “Company”), a leading lithium-ion battery manufacturer and electric energy solution provider in China, today announced its participation in the upcoming The Battery Show Europe (the “Event”), scheduled from Tuesday, June 3, 2025 to Thursday, June 5, 2025.

    Event Details:
    Date: June 03-05, 2025 (Europe Time)
    Venue: Messe Stuttgart, Messepiazza 170629 Stuttgart
    Booth: Hall 9-E40

    CBAK Energy’s sales team and R&D department, along with key members of our management, will be attending the Event. All interested parties are welcomed to visit our booth and engage with our team.

    About CBAK Energy
    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) is a leading high-tech enterprise in China engaged in the development, manufacturing, and sales of new energy high power lithium and sodium batteries, as well as the production of raw materials for use in manufacturing high power lithium batteries. The applications of the Company’s products and solutions include electric vehicles, light electric vehicles, energy storage and other high-power applications. In January 2006, CBAK Energy became the first lithium battery manufacturer in China listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. CBAK Energy has multiple operating subsidiaries in Dalian, Nanjing, Shaoxing and Shangqiu, as well as a large-scale R&D and production base in Dalian.

    For more information, please visit ir.cbak.com.cn

    About The Battery Show
    The Battery Show Europe 2025 will bring together over 1,000 exhibitors from across the globe, showcasing cutting-edge solutions and products that span the entire battery supply chain, from raw materials to recycling. Explore the latest market innovations across Europe’s largest battery technology expo. and gain new ideas for increased battery efficiencies and reduced manufacturing costs.

    For more information, please visit https://www.thebatteryshow.eu

    For further inquiries, please contact:

    In China:

    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc.
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@cbak.com.cn

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board appointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board appointed

    Emily Norton will start the role from 1 June

    Emily Norton has been appointed as the new Chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

    Emily, who has 25 years of experience in the food and farming sector, will take on the role for three years from 1 June 2025. She will succeed Nicholas Saphir, who is stepping down as Chair after more than five years in the role. AHDB is a statutory levy board funded by around 100,000 farmers and other businesses in the food supply chain. Established in 2008 and classified as a Non-Departmental Public Body, AHDB supports production of Beef, Lamb and Pork in England, Dairy in Great Britain and Cereals & Oilseeds in the UK.

    Appointments to the AHDB board are made by Defra Ministers, with the approval of Ministers in the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Governments.

    Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said:

    “Emily Norton’s leadership and extensive experience in a diverse range of sectors will bring fresh perspective and strategic insight to the AHDB. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to champion our world-class farmers and food producers – driving rural economic growth and strengthening food security.

    “I would also like to express my gratitude to Nicholas Saphir for his dedication, drive and expertise throughout his tenure.”

    Outgoing AHDB Chair Nicholas Saphir said:

    “I have served as AHDB chair for the last five years during which time it has been an honour and a pleasure to have worked with some amazingly dedicated and knowledgeable Board members and staff. 

    “Together we have delivered a significant change in the way in which AHDB serves our levy payers. I leave AHDB, the Board and team, well positioned to play their part in providing ‘the key that unlocks the future of British agriculture’. 

    “I’m delighted that Emily Norton will be stepping into the role as Chair of AHDB. Emily brings a wealth of experience through her background in running a family farming business as well as her work as a highly respected strategic and policy advisor.”

    Emily Norton, new Chair of the AHDB, said:

    “I am proud to take on the role of Chair at such a pivotal time for British agriculture.

    “My professional focus has always been on strengthening the resilience, sustainability, and prosperity of the UK’s food and farming sectors. I look forward to working with stakeholders across the industry to deliver on that mission as part of AHDB.”

    Biographical details

    • Emily Norton is a partner in an 80 ha arable farm in Norfolk and is owner and founder of Farm Foresight Ltd, a strategic advisory service for the rural sector.

    • She has previously held several executive roles including Head of Rural Research at Savills UK, and was Chair of the Oxford Farming Conference in 2023.

    • Emily has extensive board-level experience, with positions at the Soil Association Exchange, the Environmental Markets Board and the Duchy of Lancaster.

    • She is a member of the national policy committee of the Country Land and Business Association, a trustee at the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association and a member of the Farming Leadership Group of the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Blasts Republicans’ Callous Attacks Against California’s Clean Air, Underscores Consequences of Overruling Senate Parliamentarian to Bypass Filibuster

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Blasts Republicans’ Callous Attacks Against California’s Clean Air, Underscores Consequences of Overruling Senate Parliamentarian to Bypass Filibuster

    WATCH: Padilla defends California’s waivers from Republican attempts to overrule Senate Parliamentarian and avoid Senate’s 60-vote thresholdWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, spoke on the Senate Floor to demand Republicans stop their shortsighted attempts to overrule the nonpartisan Senate Parliamentarian’s decision and break the rules in order to rescind California’s clean air waivers. Senator Padilla, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, held the floor after Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said today that he would move forward this week with a cynical attempt to rescind California’s Clean Air Act waivers with a 50-vote threshold under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), bypassing the filibuster and its 60-vote requirement by overruling the Senate Parliamentarian.
    The Trump-led Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently submitted three California waivers as “rules” to Congress — despite knowing full well that these waivers were not rules under the law. The Senate Parliamentarian determined that any resolutions aimed at overturning California waivers would not be entitled to the CRA’s expedited procedures and would therefore require 60 votes to secure Senate passage.
    Prior to his remarks, Senator Padilla posed two parliamentary inquiries to the Chair, making clear that Senate Republicans’ planned actions would not abide by the rules of the Senate.
    Padilla began his remarks by underscoring the immense importance of California’s clean air waivers for cleaning up the state’s uniquely severe air quality challenges. He highlighted his own experience growing up in the San Fernando Valley, where he was frequently sent home from school because of dangerous air quality.
    Padilla warned that Republicans’ attempt to throw out the Senate rulebook and revoke California’s waivers would significantly harm the public health of millions of people. He also called out Republicans for undermining the work members of their party like Presidents Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon did to protect California’s air quality.
    “I wonder if any other member in this chamber grew up like I did, where on a pretty regular basis, we would be sent home from grade school because of the intensity and dangers of smog that settled over the San Fernando Valley, the City of Los Angeles. How many of you grew up to more reports of “unhealthy” air quality in the air quality index? … But that’s the case for far too many Californians still to this day.”
    “Congress recognized, rightfully so, that air quality in West Virginia or Wyoming is different than it is in Southern California. That there’s fewer cars on the road in Salt Lake City than there are in Los Angeles. And because California was and still is the center of innovation in the United States.”
    “Yet in 2025, it appears that Republicans want to overturn half a century of precedent in order to undermine California’s ability to protect the health of our residents. By using the Congressional Review Act to revoke California’s waivers that allow us to set our own vehicle emissions standards, Republicans seem to be putting the wealth of the Big Oil industry over the health of our constituents.”
    “As parents, we have some level of control certain things like the food we give our kids or the medications that we provide. But some things that we can’t control as parents include the quality of the air that they breathe outside. … Unless industry were to somehow decide to suddenly just do the right thing, it’s incumbent upon government to act. And that’s what California has done.”
    Padilla emphasized that California’s leading emission standards are important not only for public health, but to combat the climate crisis. He stressed that despite Republicans’ false and misleading claims to the contrary, California cannot impose its emission standards on any other state. Instead, other states have chosen voluntarily to follow California’s example.
    “California’s emission standards also represent ambitious but achievable steps to cut carbon emissions and fight the climate crisis. We’ve taken a stand because we know transportation is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. And California has been proud to set the example for other states who may choose to follow suit.”
    “I want to be clear: California has not and cannot force our emission standards on any other state in the nation. As much as I may love that authority, that does not exist. But yes, over a dozen other states have voluntarily followed in California’s footsteps — not because they were forced to, but because they chose to in order to protect their constituents, their residents, and protect our planet.”
    Padilla highlighted that California’s clean emissions programs have propelled California to becoming the fourth-largest economy in the world and the biggest contributor to the federal treasury. He emphasized that the costs of inaction against the climate crisis cost Americans an average of $2,500 a year in medical bills and over $820 billion in total, according to estimates by the Natural Resources Defense Council.
    “California didn’t get there by sticking our head in the sand as the clean energy transition blossomed elsewhere. We leaned in. And we proved that what’s good for the air is good for business. What’s good for the planet and public health is good for the economy.”
    “Meanwhile, the costs of inaction continue to hit Americans where it hurts the most: in our wallets.”
    Padilla further stressed the extreme consequences if Republicans ignore the Parliamentarian, effectively blowing up the filibuster. He highlighted that while he and other Democrats supported lowering the threshold to pass a bill in 2022, Republicans defended the filibuster relentlessly — a dramatic contrast from their current attempts to revoke California’s waivers under a simple majority vote. He noted that Republicans must know they don’t have enough votes to amend the Clean Air Act under regular order, instead opting to ignore the independent, nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Senate Parliamentarian to pursue this “nuclear option.”
    “It’s not just why Republicans are trying to undermine California’s climate leadership. It’s how they’re trying to do it.”
    “Yes, I do support lowering the threshold to move to pass a bill from a super majority to a simple majority — but only after there has been an opportunity for amendments and debate — in an effort to stop the endless partisan gridlock that prevents so much more progress that the American people deserve. I voted to make that rule change — and codify it in the Senate rules. But in 2022 when we did so, Republicans opposed it, and they defended the filibuster and the 60-vote threshold as sacred.”
    “Now, Republicans are trying to pass these bills — that strike at the heart of the Clean Air Act’s provision for California — on a simple majority, 50-vote threshold, bypassing the filibuster.”
    “Republicans are effectively saying that whenever the Parliamentarian rules against them, they can simply disregard her to bypass the filibuster and pass legislation on a simple majority vote. So no, this isn’t some one-off change to the rules — this is throwing out the rulebook entirely.”
    “Because if they can ignore the Parliamentarian here, then why not on an upcoming tax bill? Or on their efforts to gut health care for many Americans? Or whatever the latest overreach is called for by President Trump?”
    Padilla underlined a list of non-rule actions the Trump Administration could take in bogging down Congress with reviews from the past 30 years on items including vaccine approvals, broadcast licenses, merger approvals, and more, enabling President Trump’s political retribution. He detailed Republican priorities a future Democratic Administration could try to undermine, including mining permits, fossil fuel projects, foreign policy, tax policies, and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) disruptions. He concluded with a final push urging his colleagues not to abuse the CRA to rescind California’s Clean Air Act waivers.
    “So to my Republican colleagues, I should also say this: the old adage says, ‘what goes around comes around.’ And it won’t be long before Democrats are once again in the driver’s seat here, in the majority once again. And when that happens, all bets would be off because of the precedent you could be setting here at this moment.”
    “I would urge my colleagues, all my colleagues, to join me not just in defending California’s right to protect the health of our residents, not just in combating the existential threat of climate change, but in maintaining order in this chamber.”
    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Earlier today, Padilla placed a hold on the four pending EPA nominees until Republicans stop their reckless attempts to overrule the Senate Parliamentarian. Earlier this month, Senators Padilla, Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Whitehouse took to the Senate floor to sound the alarm on Senate Republicans’ consideration of moving forward with their plan to revoke California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Padilla, Whitehouse, and Schumer also led Democratic Ranking Members in strongly warning Majority Leader Thune and Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) of the dangerous and irreparable consequences if Senate Republicans overrule the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision on California’s waivers.
    Last month, Senators Padilla, Whitehouse, and Schiff welcomed the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision that the waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla also joined Whitehouse and Schiff in blasting Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA after the GAO’s similar finding. Padilla and Schiff previously slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.
    Video of Senator Padilla’s full remarks is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic students won prizes at an international conference in Kazan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University took part in the IV International Scientific and Practical Conference “Discovering the World of Science”. The event was held at the preparatory faculty for foreign students. Young researchers from Tomsk and Perm Polytechnic Universities, Ivanovo State Medical University and Kazan Federal University also took part. Foreign participants discussed the history of science, important scientific discoveries and achievements, as well as promising scientific areas in countries and regions of the world.

    Pre-graduate students of the Higher School of International Educational Programs (HSIEP) from Pakistan Zarak Ali Khan and Zaib Shah presented reports prepared under the supervision of Deputy Head of Research Daria Ignatyeva and Senior Lecturer Ksenia Moiseyeva. Zarak Ali Khan presented the study “Comparative Analysis of Load Flows for Different Power Plant Configurations in ETAP”, which is dedicated to the optimization of power systems. Zaib Shah presented innovative solutions in the field of renewable energy in the report “Methods for Tracking the Maximum Power Point in Solar Power Systems”.

    The jury highly appreciated the scientific depth of the works: Zaib Shah took first place, and Zarak Ali Khan – third. Thanks to this, they got the opportunity to publish in the scientific journal of KFU.

    The event became an important platform for exchanging experience between young scientists and identifying promising areas of research. Participants agreed to intensify inter-university cooperation in energy, engineering and medical technologies, develop joint projects focused on sustainable development and “green” technologies, and expand academic mobility programs.

    Zarak Ali Khan said that he had an unforgettable experience thanks to the combination of professional growth and acquaintance with the cultural heritage of the city. Zaib Shah compared Kazan to a page from a fairy tale, noting the beauty of the Kremlin, Lake Kaban, Bauman Street and the local cuisine.

    The conference organisers noted the growing level of scientific work by foreign students and expressed confidence that the event would become a traditional launching pad for future discoveries.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Track and field athletes performed well at the regional Universiade

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The next stages of the 48th Universiade among students of higher educational institutions of the Novosibirsk region have ended – in track and field competitions, NSU students brilliantly won silver medals, and in cross-country they took fourth place.

    The winners in the individual competition were:

    Nikita Bosak (MMF) took second place in the 1000m cross-country race

    At track and field competitions:

    1st place – Igor Gunko (FF) – 100m run, result 11.30

    1st place – Yana Stepanchuk (FEN) – long jump, result 487 cm

    3rd place – Nikita Bosak (MMF) – 800 m run, result 1.56.29

    3rd place – Anastasia Osmushkina (IMMT) – 1500m run, result 5.06.79

    2nd place – 4 x 100 m relay, result 46.12: Alexander Makhanov (GGF), Andrey Birkin (EF), Nikita Sobolev and Igor Gunko (FF)

    2nd place – 4 x 400 m relay, result 3.34.28: Nikita Bosak, Alexey Chviruk, Danil Kasyanov (MMF) and Miron Gaskov (FIT)

    Also recently, the 78th city relay race dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War took place, where the NSU team took 5th place.

    Anastasia Osmushkina (IMMT) became the winner of the contest “Miss Relay 2025”

    Our national teams also included:

    Darya Zavalishina, Gleb Mamonov, Alexander Khramov and Lev Zhukov (MMF)

    Alexander Lapushinsky, Nikita Filchakov and Nikita Tropin (FIT)

    Tatyana Nefedova, Nikita Linev and Artem Golovin (GI)

    Ksenia Zubareva, Daria Gogoleva and Alina Polyakova (FEN)

    Rada Luzan and Alexander Nemov (FF)

    Matvey Kopylov (IIR) and Yaroslav Myasnikov (GGF)

    Congratulations to the winners of the competition and all the athletes and coaches Anton Mamekov, Olga Chernaya and Anastasia Trishkina on their worthy performance! We wish them further success in the summer competition season!

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Homegrown pioneer first project funded for Solar Sunshot

    Source: Ministers for the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science

    Australian solar pioneer 5B has been selected as the first project to receive funding from the Australian Government’s $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program to help expand Australia’s solar manufacturing industry.  

    Funding of up to $46 million will go to the Australian based company to increase manufacturing capacity of its highly innovative ‘Maverick’ – an automated solar deployment system using prefabricated, prewired panels. The technology has the potential to drastically speed up and scale up the roll out of solar farms, reducing the cost and labour intensity of current methods.  

    ARENA CEO Darren Miller said ARENA is excited to be announcing 5B as the first project under the Solar Sunshot Program to support solar manufacturing in Australia to accelerate the renewable energy transition.   

    “This project represents the best of homegrown Australian technology and innovation in solar and we are proud to support 5B’s goals of making solar deployment faster, cheaper, safer and more efficient.  

    “ARENA has a vision of reaching 1 terawatt of installed solar PV in Australia by 2050 to achieve our renewable energy ambitions. Projects like this are what we need to get there.” 

    “Today represents a step towards building Australia’s resilience in the solar value chain as the global demand for renewable energy technologies, products and knowledge intensifies.”  

    5B CEO David Griffin said this funding would drive down 5B’s Australian production costs by 25% and accelerate 5B’s ability to offer large customers lower cost energy alongside the safety, speed and land efficiencies unique to the 5B Maverick solution.  

    “It means we can further strengthen our team, creating opportunities from the factory floor, in our field deployment crews, and specialists working on gigawatts of solar farm designs.”  

    The funding will support the expansion of 5B’s Australian manufacturing capacity in solar to produce at least 200 MW of Maverick units at their Adelaide manufacturing facility over the next three years. The Maverick systems will support the demand for increased deployment of large-scale solar across Australia. 

    About Solar Sunshot  

    The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is delivering the $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program to support innovation in Australia’s solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing industry.   

    Solar Sunshot was announced by the Australian Government in March 2024 and aims to uncover and support innovation to drive scale and diversity in a critical industry.    

    Australia benefits from strong renewable energy potential, high-quality, abundant raw materials, and a long track record of excellence in research and development.   

    Solar Sunshot aims to harness these advantages so that Australia can strengthen and diversify its supply chains and create economic opportunities.    

    Round 1A offers $500 million of capital and production-linked funding for solar PV manufacturing innovation, with a focus on modules, inputs to modules and deployment systems (closed). 

    Round 1B offers $50 million of funding to support solar PV manufacturing studies, including feasibility and engineering studies (remains open).  

    Funding to 5B has been awarded under Round 1A of the Program. 

    Learn more at https://arena.gov.au/funding/solar-sunshot/   

    ARENA media contact:

    media@arena.gov.au

    Download this media release (PDF 151KB)

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 21, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 21, 2025.

    Australian para sport has issues everywhere – here’s what must be fixed ahead of the Brisbane Paralympics
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katherine Raw, Lecturer, Sport Management, Swinburne University of Technology Bratislav Kostic/Shutterstock Australia’s underwhelming performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics has raised serious questions about how well our adaptive sport system is working. The Paris games returned our lowest medal tally since 1988, from our smallest team since

    What’s the difference between skim milk and light milk?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Margaret Murray, Senior Lecturer, Nutrition, Swinburne University of Technology bodnar.photo/Shutterstock If you’re browsing the supermarket fridge for reduced-fat milk, it’s easy to be confused by the many different types. You can find options labelled skim, skimmed, skinny, no fat, extra light, lite, light, low fat, reduced fat,

    AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathryn Locke, Associate Researcher in Digital Disability, Centre for Culture and Technology, Curtin University Chansom Pantip/Shutterstock Since the recent explosion of widely available generative artificial intelligence (AI), it now seems that a new AI tool emerges every week. With varying success, AI offers solutions for productivity, creativity,

    NZ Budget 2025: science investment must increase as a proportion of GDP for NZ to innovate and compete
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Gaston, Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Shutterstock/Olivier Le Queinec A lack of strategy and research funding – by both the current and previous governments – has been well documented, most comprehensively in the first report

    Starvation of Gaza – a distressing continuation of a decades-old plan
    SPECIAL REPORT: By Jeremy Rose Reading an NBC News report a couple of days ago about a Trump administration plan to relocate 1 million Gazans to Libya reminded me of a conversation between the legendary Warsaw Ghetto leader Marek Edelman and fellow fighter and survivor Simcha Rotem that took place more than quarter of a

    Spotify continues to change music. What’s next – will AI musicians replace music made by humans?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Spotify was started, according to its official claims, because its founders “love music and piracy was killing it”. In Mood Machine, music journalist Liz Pelly argues this is rewriting history. In fact, she

    Feats of the human body behind Tom Cruise’s stunts in Mission: Impossible movies
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol He’s leapt from cliffs, clung to planes mid-takeoff and held his breath underwater for as long as professional freedivers. Now, at 62, Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt for one final mission – and

    After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham After a two-hour phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on May 19, US president Donald Trump took to social media to declare that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire and an end to

    The public service has a much smaller gender pay gap than the private sector. It’s a big achievement
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leonora Risse, Associate Professor in Economics, University of Canberra NDAB Creativity/Shutterstock After two years of publishing the gender pay gaps of Australia’s private-sector companies, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency has released public-sector employer data for the first time. The report shows a stark contrast between the private

    For making stars, it’s not just how much gas a galaxy has that matters – it’s where it’s hiding
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbara Catinella, Professor and Senior Principal Research Fellow, International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), The University of Western Australia One of the galaxies mapped by WALLABY: the red shade shows the atomic hydrogen gas content of the galaxy, overlaid on an optical image showing the stars.

    The Queensland melioidosis outbreak is still growing. What’s keeping this deadly mud bug active?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Jeffries, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, Western Sydney University ap-studio/Shutterstock The outbreak of the deadly “mud bug” melioidosis in north Queensland has not yet abated since it began at the start of this year. So far there have been 221 cases and 31 deaths from the disease

    ‘Outdated and irrelevant’: what do young Australians think of their schooling?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jun Eric Fu, Senior Research Fellow, Youth Research Collective, The University of Melbourne LBeddoe/Shutterstock Australia’s school system – and whether it is doing its job – is often under the microscope from politicians, experts and parents. The most recent NAPLAN results in 2024 triggered a wave of

    Culture at the core: examining journalism values in the Pacific
    ANALYSIS: By Birte Leonhardt, Folker Hanusch and Shailendra B. Singh The role of journalism in society is shaped not only by professional norms but also by deeply held cultural values. This is particularly evident in the Pacific Islands region, where journalists operate in media environments that are often small, tight-knit and embedded within traditional communities.

    The band is breaking up: has the Coalition stopped making sense?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University I remember seeing footage, several years ago, of a jubilant Malcolm Turnbull, then prime minister and Liberal leader, speaking in Tamworth to loyal members of the National Party. These were the rank and file who had spent weeks

    Health chief ‘conductor of an orchestra who’s never played an instrument’
    ANALYSIS: By Ian Powell In February 2025, Dr Diana Sarfati resigned, not unexpectedly, as Director-General of Health after only two years into her five-year term. As a medical specialist, and in her role as developing the successful cancer control agency, she had extensive experience in New Zealand’s health system. However, she did not conform to

    Victorian budget has cash to splash on health, transport but new levies, job cuts, rising debt signal pain ahead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University There was not a lot of cheer in the media reporting ahead of the 2025/6 Victorian budget released on Wednesday. Debt and deficits dominated the coverage. All eyes turned to new treasurer, Jaclyn Symes, to see if in

    RBA cuts interest rates, ready to respond again if the economy weakens further
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock speaks at a forum during the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington in April. Jose Luis Magana/AP The Reserve Bank of Australia cut the official interest rate for the

    The Coalition is on a break, but the Nationals risk finding their former partner doesn’t want them back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Botterill, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University In the weeks since the federal election, there’s been much speculation about the future of the Coalition agreement. In their soul-searching, it seemed possible the Liberals might pull the pin, given the degree of their

    Israel slammed over ‘cynical’ sidestep of global rulings on Gazan humanitarian aid
    Asia Pacific Report Israel has been accused of “manipulation” and “cynical” circumvention of global decisions calling for unrestricted humanitarian aid access to the besieged Gaza enclave. “In a clear act of defiance against international humanitarian obligations, the occupying state has permitted only nine aid trucks to enter the Gaza Strip — covering both the devastated

    Keith Rankin Analysis – The Aratere and the New Zealand Main Trunk Line
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Government-owned Kiwirail is supposed to be presiding over the New Zealand Main Trunk (Railway) Line, from Auckland to Invercargill. As such it runs a ferry service (The Interislander) between New Zealand’s North and South Islands. We are being told by Kiwirail (and see today’s report on Radio NZ) that the only

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: World Gas Conference to be held in Beijing for the first time

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — The 29th World Gas Conference (WGC2025) opened in Beijing on Tuesday. In its nearly 100-year history, the event is being held in China for the first time.

    The conference, held under the motto “Energizing a Sustainable Future,” brought together over 3,000 participants from 70 countries and regions of the world, ready to engage in an in-depth exchange of views and reach consensus on issues related to the global energy transition, trends in the development of the gas sector, and the search for a path to a sustainable future.

    The conference was jointly organised by the International Gas Union (IGU), Beijing Gas and Beijing Capital Group Exhibitions.

    The forums cover various topics: development of the LNG segment, integration of natural gas and renewable energy sources, energy security, digital transformation, etc. Over 400 participants – industry leaders and experts from the gas sector – will exchange opinions on development trends and technological innovations.

    The exhibition is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors. Leading global oil and gas companies, gas infrastructure and city gas supply firms will showcase achievements in the development of traditional gas sector links, as well as technological breakthroughs.

    As one of the flagship events under the auspices of the IGU, WGC2025 will run until May 23 at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s energy consumption rose by 4.7 percent in April.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — Electricity consumption, a key barometer of a country’s economic activity, showed steady growth in China in April, official data showed Tuesday.

    In April, energy consumption increased by 4.7 percent year-on-year and reached 772.1 billion kWh, the State Energy Administration of China noted.

    In particular, electricity consumption in the primary and secondary sectors of the economy increased by 13.8 and 3 percent, respectively, compared to April 2024, and in the tertiary sector of the economy increased by 9 percent.

    Electricity consumption for domestic needs of urban and rural households reached 93.6 billion kWh in April, an increase of 7 percent year-on-year.

    From January to April, the country’s total energy consumption increased by 3.1 percent to 3.16 trillion kWh. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s power use up 4.7% in April

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

    Staff members of the State Grid in Yuanshi County patrol the rooftop photovoltaic devices at a technology company in Yuanshi County, north China’s Hebei Province, May 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s electricity consumption, a key barometer of economic activity, saw steady expansion in April, official data showed on Tuesday.

    Power use rose 4.7 percent year on year in April to 772.1 billion kilowatt-hours, according to the National Energy Administration.

    In breakdown, power consumed by the primary and secondary industries gained 13.8 percent and 3 percent year on year, respectively, while that of the tertiary sector rose 9 percent.

    The electricity consumption for urban and rural residents reached 93.6 billion kilowatt-hours, marking a year-on-year increase of 7 percent.

    From January to April, the total power use climbed 3.1 percent to 3.16 trillion kilowatt-hours. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Mega projects in Xinjiang power China’s energy transition

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

    A three-hour drive from Urumqi, the capital of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the towering silver structures of a monumental power transmission project emerge from the vast, sunbaked terrain.

    Each day, the transmission lines stretching over 3,000 km deliver electricity generated from Xinjiang’s abundant wind and solar resources to east China’s Anhui Province, where it is redistributed to power the bustling cities of the Yangtze River Delta.

    Independently developed, designed and constructed by China, the Changji-Guquan ultra-high voltage (UHV) direct current transmission project stands as a world leader in terms of voltage level, transmission capacity and distance, and technology level.

    Since its launch in 2019, the project has delivered 84 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity — equivalent to annually cutting 65 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in eastern China.

    “By leveraging Xinjiang’s unique advantages, this project enables large-scale, cross-regional transmission of renewable energy, which is a pivotal step in the country’s green transition,” said Chen Shoujun, chairman of State Grid Xinjiang Electric Power Co., Ltd.

    Green energy goldmine 

    Xinjiang’s sprawling deserts and barren land, once seen as an economic hurdle, have turned into a renewable energy goldmine, blessed with strong wind and long hours of sunshine.

    Latest data shows that Xinjiang’s total installed power capacity has surged to 201 million kilowatts, with 112 million kilowatts — or 55.72 percent — coming from renewables.

    In southern Xinjiang’s Ruoqiang County, this transformation is visible in the rows of solar panels standing in neat arrays, resembling a vast dark blue ocean shimmering with metallic luster under the blazing sun.

    The photovoltaic project, with the largest single-site installed capacity in China’s sandy, rocky and desert areas, is expected to begin commercial operation by the end of this May and will generate 6.9 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually — enough to power 2 million households for a year.

    With abundant power generation capacity, Xinjiang faces the challenge of ensuring this energy doesn’t go to waste. The region’s local demand can not fully absorb the massive power it generates, creating a stark imbalance with the energy-hungry eastern regions.

    This imbalance spurred China’s West-to-East Power Transmission Project. Since 2010, Xinjiang has built four major transmission lines, including the Changji-Guquan UHV project, boosting its cross-regional capacity to 25 million kilowatts.

    In eastern Xinjiang’s Hami, another UHV transmission project is preparing to send electricity to southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality. Upon its expected commissioning later this year, it will transmit over 36 billion kilowatt-hours annually, and more than half will come from clean energy sources.

    “This is equivalent to replacing 6 million tonnes of coal consumption and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 16.5 million tonnes each year,” said Xu Jiayang of State Grid UHV Engineering Construction Company, who oversees the construction of the project.

    Energy storage innovations 

    While transmission solves allocation challenges, innovative ways of energy storage provide a solution to maximizing renewable usage.

    Nestled in the rugged Tianshan Mountains, about 100 km northwest of Urumqi, a pumped-storage power station turns natural elevation into renewable energy reservoirs.

    By exploiting a 400-meter height difference, the facility stores surplus energy by pumping water uphill during low demand hours and releases it to generate power at peak times.

    “The unique feature of this project lies in its ability to improve the utilization rate of wind and solar energy,” said Yang Hongtao, chairman of State Grid Xinyuan Xinjiang Fukang Pumped Storage Co. Ltd., noting the station can utilize over 2.6 billion kilowatt-hours of renewables annually.

    Beyond clean energy, these mega projects are changing the lives of local people. Construction of the pumped-storage station has created more than 3,500 jobs while boosting tourism and catering industries, according to Yang.

    For Huanxbek Sayran, a Kazakh engineer from northern Xinjiang’s Altay Prefecture, working at the station fulfills both professional and personal aspirations.

    “After university, I always wanted to contribute to Xinjiang’s development,” said Sayran. “Now with expertise to share, I hope to help build the next generation of projects.”

    As dusk falls over the Tianshan Mountains, the station’s reservoirs shimmer under the desert sun. Above one reservoir, a slogan reads: “Energizing better lives, empowering brighter futures.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Grangemouth workers receive ‘training guarantee’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Grangemouth workers receive ‘training guarantee’

    Grangemouth workers receive ‘training guarantee’ to benefit from clean energy jobs.

    • Over 260 workers have received 1:1 skills support from Forth Valley College to support their transition into new, high-skilled jobs, with 184 workers already beginning training   

    • signals swift delivery of the Prime Minister’s commitment to a ‘training guarantee’ to secure a future for workers, as part of the Plan for Change  

    • Energy Secretary and Energy Minister join Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy in first Grangemouth Investment Taskforce meeting today to discuss securing private investment and a long-term future for Grangemouth – backed by £200 million from the UK government, and £25 million from the Scottish Government   

    Petroineos refinery workers at Grangemouth are being actively supported through the Prime Minister’s commitment to a ‘training guarantee’ to help secure new well-paid work, as part of the UK and Scottish Governments’ pledge to secure a future for those affected by the closure of the oil refinery.   

    The government took swift action to protect workers after Petroineos confirmed their plans to close the refinery, including announcing up to £10 million to provide new skills support that will help the site’s workers into good clean energy jobs, as well as supporting new energy projects in the region. This also included a commitment from the Prime Minister in February to deliver a “training guarantee”.  

    This guarantee is now being delivered, with 184 out of 300 workers having now engaged in retraining activity with the majority of the remaining workforce registered for training.  

    Workers have been offered a wide range of training opportunities, including renewable energy upskilling courses and wind turbine engineering courses, paid for and supported by the UK and Scottish Governments. This will provide them with the vital skills needed to secure new jobs, including in the clean energy sector – which currently supports more than 42,000 jobs in Scotland.   

    Every Petroineos worker affected by the decision to close the oil refinery has now been provided the opportunity for 1:1 interviews with careers specialists at Forth Valley College.  

    These will help identify their skills, qualifications and training needs to create a programme of bespoke courses that will ensure their smooth transition into new roles – supporting the next generation of good jobs and driving economic growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change.  

    It comes as the Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin and Energy Minister Michael Shanks join the Office for Investment, Scottish Enterprise, National Wealth Fund and Scottish National Investment Bank for the inaugural Grangemouth Investment Taskforce meeting today where they will discuss securing private investment in the future of the site – with 66 enquiries received so far.  

    Minister for Energy Michael Shanks said:  

    The workforce at Grangemouth is highly skilled with significant transferrable experience which our training commitment recognises by providing tailored support for workers into new employment opportunities. 

    As well as continuing to work to secure the site’s long-term industrial future, we want to ensure no worker is left behind and that they are equipped with the skills they need to secure good jobs. This is our Plan for Change in action. 

    Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said:  

    The Scottish Government’s immediate focus has rightly been on supporting workers who have lost their jobs. We committed up to £450,000 to ensure that they are supported and assisted to secure other employment and to contribute their valuable skills to Scotland’s green economy.  

    That is why we are also working to secure Grangemouth’s role in that future and create an investible industrial strategy for the site. It’s clear that real progress is being made on the findings from Project Willow. We are working closely with Scottish Enterprise – who are already assessing nearly 70 inquiries aligned to the full range of technologies set out in the report – and we are determined to ensure we realise the full potential for the site’s transformation. 

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:  

    We know this is a worrying time for workers and their families at Grangemouth. I am pleased more than 260 highly skilled workers have already received support from Forth Valley College thanks to funding from the UK government as part of the £100 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal package. 

    By offering bespoke training in renewable energy and wind turbine engineering, we’re not just supporting individual workers but also helping Scotland lead the way in clean energy jobs. We are determined that Grangemouth will have a green energy future and have committed £200 million through the National Wealth Fund toward that. 

    Kenny MacInnes, Principal of Forth Valley College, said:   

    The College continues to work extremely hard to make sure that all the Petroineos employees affected by the refinery closure, are able to access the support they need as they begin their transition into new training, careers and jobs.  

    We are making learning work in our Forth Valley communities and beyond, and we want to assure everyone that we will continue to be there for them as they take the next steps in their careers and their studies. 

    Steven Bell, former Hazardous Areas Technician at Petroineos Grangemouth Refinery, said:   

    The support I received from Forth Valley College with retraining during the redundancy process has been exceptional.  

    From my 1:1 meetings discussing courses that I would be interested in and what my future career path might be, right through to getting booked onto the courses I had selected, nothing was too much trouble.  

    All in all, I can say I am absolutely delighted with what Forth Valley College have provided for me during this process. 

    The training support has helped workers enter new employment. For example, former Hazardous Areas Technician Steven Bell took part in a range of courses that enabled him to renew his Electricians Grade Card, as well as courses in working in hazardous areas which will support him in his new role as a Compliance Supervisor with a company involved in the pharmaceutical and distillery sector.  

    It follows the publication of a feasibility report ‘Project Willow’ that provided nine proposals for Grangemouth, backed by £200 million from the UK government and £25 million from the Scottish Government, which will support jobs, unlock investment and drive growth.  

    The report sets out various options for the site, including plastics recycling, hydrogen production and other projects that could create up to 800 jobs by 2040. This will help to grow the economy and deliver on both governments’ shared ambition to secure a long-term future for Grangemouth – with Scottish Enterprise already receiving a high level of interest from potential investors.  

    The UK government is unlocking Scotland’s clean energy potential and recently awarded £55.7 million to the Port of Cromarty Firth to develop and manufacture new floating offshore wind farms in Scotland. It has also launched a Skills Passport to support oil and gas workers to identify routes into several roles in offshore wind including construction and maintenance.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Budget 2025: science investment must increase as a proportion of GDP for NZ to innovate and compete

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Gaston, Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Shutterstock/Olivier Le Queinec

    A lack of strategy and research funding – by both the current and previous governments – has been well documented, most comprehensively in the first report by the Science System Advisory Group (SSAG), released late last year.

    If there is one word that sums up the current state of New Zealan’s research sector, it is scarcity. As the report summarises:

    We have an underfunded system by any international comparison. This parsimony has led to harmful inter-institutional competition in a manner that is both wastefully expensive in terms of process and scarce researcher time, and is known to inhibit the most intellectually innovative ideas coming forward, and of course it is these that can drive a productive innovation economy.

    The government expects research to contribute to economic growth, but policy and action undermine the sector’s capacity to do so.

    The latest example is last week’s cancellation of the 2026 grant application round of the NZ$55 million Endeavour Fund “as we transition to the science, innovation and technology system of the future”. Interrupting New Zealand’s largest contestable source of science funding limits opportunities for researchers looking for support for new and emerging ideas.

    Changes to the Marsden Fund, set up 30 years ago to support fundamental research, removed all funding for social science and the humanities and shifted focus to applied research. This is despite fundamental research in all fields underpinning innovation and the international ranking of our universities.

    New Zealand has an opportunity to change its economy based on the potential of emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, cleantech and quantum technologies. Other countries, including Australia and the United Kingdom, already consider quantum technologies a priority and fund them accordingly.

    But when it comes to strategy, the composition of the boards of new Public Research Organisations, set up as part of the government’s science sector reform, are skewed towards business experience. Where there is scientific expertise, it tends to be in established industries. The governance of the proposed new entity to focus on emerging and advanced technologies is yet to be announced.

    Critical mass requires funding and strategy

    Scientists have been calling for a science investment target of 2% of GDP for a long time. It was once – roughly a decade ago – the average expenditure within the OECD; this has since increased to 2.7% of GDP, while New Zealand’s investment remains at 1.5%.

    The SSAG report repeatedly refers to the lack of funding, and it would be the obvious thing to see addressed in this year’s budget. But expectations have already been lowered by the government’s insistence there will be no new money.

    The report’s second high-level theme is the engagement of government with scientific strategy. Government announcements to date seem focused on attracting international investment through changes to tax settings and regulation. I would argue this is a matter of focusing on the wrapping rather than the present: the system itself needs to be attractive to investors.

    Creating a thriving research sector is also a matter of scale. International cooperation is one way for New Zealand to access efficiencies of scale. And work on building international partnerships is one area of positive intent. But we need to look at our connectivity nationally as well, and use investment to build this further.

    Countries with greater GDPs than New Zealand’s invest much more in research as a proportion of GDP. It means the size of these other countries’ scientific ecosystems – if measured by total expenditure – is three to four times New Zealand’s on a per capita basis.

    A matter of scale

    Per-capita scale matters because it tells us how easy it is for researchers to find someone else with the right skillset or necessary equipment. It tells us how likely it is for a student to find an expert in New Zealand to teach them, rather than needing to go overseas.

    And it tells us how quickly start-up companies in emerging technologies will be able to find the skilled employees they need. A thriving university system that attracts young people to develop the research skills needed by advanced technology companies is a key part of this challenge.

    The government’s science sector reform aims to increase its contribution to economic growth. But research contributes to economic growth when scientists can really “lean in” with confidence to commercialising and translating their science.

    That can’t happen if budgets don’t fund the critical mass, connectivity and resources to stimulate the transition to a thriving science system.

    Nicola Gaston receives funding from the Tertiary Education Commission as the Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology. She also receives funding from the Marsden Fund. All research funding goes to the University of Auckland to pay the costs of the research she is employed to do.

    – ref. NZ Budget 2025: science investment must increase as a proportion of GDP for NZ to innovate and compete – https://theconversation.com/nz-budget-2025-science-investment-must-increase-as-a-proportion-of-gdp-for-nz-to-innovate-and-compete-255591

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 20th, 2025 Heinrich Statement Blasting Senate Republicans’ Plans to Defy the Senate Parliamentarian & Force a Vote to Overturn California’s Clean Energy Air Act Waivers

    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 Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement after Senate Republicans announced their plans to defy the Senate parliamentarian and force a vote to overturn California’s Clean Energy Air Act Waivers:
    “If Senate Republicans force a vote on the California Clean Air Act Waivers, they set a precedent that will allow Congress to overturn nearly any agency decision nationwide. I urge my colleagues to reject this gross overreach. If they don’t, Congressional Review Act resolutions will quickly hijack the Senate floor to retroactively invalidate agency permits, adjudications, and licensing decisions – actions that were never previously considered ‘rules.’
    “We need a reliable energy permitting and approval system if we are going to meet our growing energy needs. But under Republicans’ proposal, Congress could invalidate permits for new oil and gas wells, established rights of way for transmission lines, and approvals of new LNG export terminals. That includes the Department of Energy’s recent approval of Commonwealth LNG’s application to export liquified natural gas. If not challenged immediately, a future administration could also submit Commonwealth’s authorization as a rule retroactively and halt the project years after it has begun construction.
    “By opening this door, Republicans threaten to destroy our permitting and regulatory system, leading to higher energy costs for Americans and making it impossible for new developments to come online. Indeed, nearly every major and minor project the federal government touches could be stalled, creating significant uncertainty if not complete chaos. That is not what the American people want, and it cannot be what Senate Republicans want, either.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Grills Trump’s Nominee for IRS Commissioner about his Involvement in a Fraudulent Tax Scheme

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) grilled Billy Long, President Trump’s nominee to lead the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), about his involvement in a tax fraud scheme in which he encouraged people to claim a fake Tribal tax credit. Long repeatedly failed to provide her with clear answers.
    Long has close ties to Capital Edge and the White River Energy Corporation, which promoted Tribal tax credits that the IRS later confirmed do not exist. Long reported earning $65,000 for his work related to the scheme. Cortez Masto has repeatedly sounded the alarm about Long’s alleged participation in tax fraud. Last month, she called for a criminal investigation into this scheme, and last week, she demanded answers from the White River Energy Corporation. Long suddenly received thousands of dollars campaign donations from individuals employed by these companies shortly after he was nominated to serve as IRS Commissioner, which he used to pay off a personal loan to his campaign.
    Cortez Masto pressed Long on his admission that he was involved in the scam, saying “In response to the question ‘How many Tribal tax credit referrals did you work on for Capital Edge and White River?’ […] you responded, ‘Less than ten close friends and acquaintances to Capital Edge.’ So, you did refer Tribal tax credits to individuals, correct?”
    “I referred them to Capital Edge Strategies, yes,” Long replied.
    “Knowing that they are illegal, and the IRS has said they are illegal, how do you stand here before this committee and tell the Chairman just a few minutes ago that you have no conflict of interest?” Cortez Masto asked.
    Mr. Long did not provide a clear answer.
    “We have asked the IRS to investigate these Tribal tax credits and the scam, and the companies that were involved, and some of the companies allegedly that were involved were [White River Energy Corporation], a company that you received compensation from,” Cortez Masto said. “How can you sit here today and say there’s no conflict knowing now that there is an investigation underway with the IRS and we’re asking them to look at this scam and it may involve a company that you are affiliated with?”
    As the former top law enforcement official in Nevada, Senator Cortez Masto has been a leading voice fight fraud throughout her career. She sounded the alarm on increasing check fraud scams, which cost consumers millions of dollars each year. She introduced legislation to protect and support whistleblowers reporting wrongdoing to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and her bipartisan legislation to deter disruptive and potentially harmful phone calls and texts was signed into law in 2020.

    MIL OSI USA News –