NewzIntel.com

Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kelly backs legislation to stop EV mandates, de facto ban on gas-powered vehicles

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) joined Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman John Joyce (PA-13), Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Congressman John James (MI-10), along with Members of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, California Republicans, and Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain on three Congressional Review Act resolutions that would undo harmful rules created under the Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency.

    These three Congressional Review Act resolutions would reverse radical regulations that established a de facto ban on the use of gas-powered vehicles, heavy trucks, and diesel engines over the next decade.

    “Pennsylvania drivers shouldn’t be subjected to California laws, plain and simple. This series of legislation rejects radical EV mandates and ensures drivers across the United States will be able to choose the vehicle that’s best for them, whether it’s gas-powered, electric, or a hybrid model,” Rep. Kelly said. 

    “The American people should choose what vehicle is right for them, not California bureaucrats. By submitting the three California waivers to Congress, Administrator Zeldin is ensuring that Congress has oversight of these major rules that impact every American,” said Chairman Guthrie. “The Committee has been committed to addressing this issue since California first attempted to create a de facto EV mandate. Energy and Commerce Republicans will continue to fight against far-left policies that would harm consumers and will now work to ensure that the Congressional Review Act process finally puts these issues to rest. Thank you to Congressman Joyce, Congressman Obernolte, and Congressman James for your work to ensure that families and businesses can continue to choose the vehicles they need.”

    “Since arriving in Washington, I have fought to protect consumer freedom and allow American families to choose the vehicle that best fits their budget and needs,” said Vice Chairman John Joyce, M.D. “The introduction of this resolution to overturn California’s ban on gas-powered vehicles is long overdue. Thank you to Chairman Guthrie and Chairman Capito for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to seeing this legislation swiftly pass through Congress so President Trump can permanently protect the freedom of the open road for all Americans.”

    “As a representative of California, I’ve seen firsthand how burdensome regulations from the California Air Resources Board have hurt businesses and hardworking Americans by imposing costly mandates instead of allowing the market to drive innovation,” said Congressman Obernolte. “Congress must exercise its oversight authority to ensure these policies do not become the national standard. It is critical we protect jobs, supply chains, and the ability of consumers to choose what is best for them and their families.”

    “The Biden administration left behind comply-or-die Green New Deal mandates that threaten to crush our trucking industry and drive up costs for hardworking Americans,” said Congressman James. “I know — my family has a trucking company. Republicans are working hard to implement President Trump’s America First agenda, and the first step is repealing the rules and waivers that contributed to Bideninflation!” 

    “During the Biden administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowed a series of stringent, environmentally charged regulations on vehicles that would effectively overhaul the marketplace and steer consumers toward purchasing electric vehicles,” said Congressman Fulcher. “I am honored to join my colleagues in introducing a legislative package to repeal these overreaching federal mandates and preserve consumer freedom and choice in the automotive and heavy-duty truck markets,” 

    “California’s sweeping and unachievable emissions mandates are a direct assault on everyone who lives, works, or does business in our state,” said Congressman LaMalfa. “These regulations drive up costs, limit consumer choice, and force trucking and automotive industries into an impossible transition timeline. Californians are already paying some of the highest fuel and energy costs in the country. These rules are causing the cost of new and used cars and trucks to increase for everyone. If you want to buy an electric vehicle, buy one, but everybody else shouldn’t be forced into this mandate. The Federal Government cannot allow one state to destroy the American car and truck market. Instead of making life even more expensive, we should focus on what consumers want. I’m pleased to support this effort to stop California’s insanity and protect drivers and consumers across my state and the country.” 

    “The Newsom Administration’s irrational plan to ban gas-powered cars and trucks is an affront to the freedom of Californians and an economic burden to the whole country,” said Congressman Kiley. “The Biden Administration aided and abetted this insanity with special waivers. With the Congressional Review Act resolutions introduced today, we have an opportunity to return to economic reality and restore common sense.” 

    “Biden’s EPA waivers effectively allowed one state’s woke agenda to dictate national policy. It’s not the government’s role to decide what vehicle Americans must drive,” said Chairwoman McClain. “These waivers bypass Congress and ignore millions of Americans who rely on affordable, reliable transportation. Instead, we should have a little more faith in the American people to choose what’s best for them. It’s time we end this regulatory overreach.” 

    BACKGROUND

    Making these changes at a time when the United States is unprepared for a full transition to electric vehicles would have massive consequences for American communities. With states making up more than 40% of the auto market following California’s emissions standards, implementing Californias EV mandate would result in a nation-wide shift in the vehicles that are available for purchase, and in fact could lead to a shortage of the vehicles consumers need. 

    H.J. Res. 88, introduced by Congressman Joyce (PA-13), would reverse the EPA’s decision to approve a waiver granted to California allowing the State to ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035.

    H.J. Res. 89, introduced by Congressman Obernolte (CA-23), would put an end to the EPA’s decision to allow California to implement its most recent nitrogen oxide (NOx) engine emission standards, which create burdensome and unworkable standards for heavy-duty on-road engines.

    H.J. Res. 87, introduced by Congressman James (MI-10), would reverse the EPA’s decision to approve a waiver granted to California allowing the State to mandate the sale of zero-emission trucks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Leads Colleagues in Releasing Report Highlighting Harm to Seniors and People with Disabilities During Trump’s First 100 Days

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP) Committee, released a report highlighting President Trump’s first 100 days in office and his disastrous policies hurting older Americans and people with disabilities. The report details Republican attacks on Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security; the mass layoff of federal employees at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Department of Education (ED), and Social Security Administration (SSA); and proposals to further cut funding for programs that Americans rely on, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

    “During President Trump’s first 100 days in office, he has enacted horrendous policies that will have negative consequences for Americans for decades to come,” said Kaine. “Today, I’m releasing this report with my colleagues highlighting the reprehensible harm that President Trump and his Administration have caused for older Americans and people with disabilities. From gutting HHS and other federal agencies to rolling back policies that make it easier for Americans to access health care and afford prescription drugs, the Trump Administration has made it clear that they do not care about the well-being of our nation’s seniors or people with disabilities. I’ve heard from older Americans and individuals with disabilities in Virginia, including at a recent roundtable in Wytheville, about their concerns with what the Trump Administration is doing. I will keep pushing to protect important federal programs that support older Americans and people with disabilities, and fight against Republican proposals to slash Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.”

    “In his first 100 days, Mr. Trump has made it abundantly clear that seniors and people with disabilities do not matter. Instead of protecting the programs and services working families rely on, Trump is getting ready to give more tax breaks for billionaires, while making it harder for Americans to access Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security & veterans benefits. That is morally obscene,” said Sanders.

    “Just last week, RFK callously called for a ‘registry’ of people with autism. He’s spent 100 days firing scientists and working with this Administration to rob research facility dollars used to cure cancer and Alzheimer’s. His boss Donald Trump is trying to gut Medicaid to pay for billionaire tax cuts at the expense of vulnerable communities. It is clear that those who have been leading our country these last 100 days and making decisions about our health care are not only wildly unqualified, they are dangerous. Our families deserve better, we are sick of it,” said Alsobrooks.  

    The full report is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Protecting New Zealand’s energy infrastructure

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Improving the current system to better protect power lines from falling trees will protect the security of New Zealand’s electricity infrastructure, says Energy Minister Simon Watts. 
    “Secure electricity lines are critical to electrifying New Zealand’s economy and delivering the resilient and reliable electricity supply we need to power economic growth,” Mr Watts says.
    “Cyclone Gabrielle and Cyclone Tam highlighted the vulnerability of our infrastructure to severe weather events like storms and floods. During Cyclone Gabrielle alone, trees outside the Growth Limit Zone caused power outages that left 68,000 households without heating, lighting, internet, and access to essential appliances.”
    The Government has now agreed to amendments to the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003, that will lower the risk to power lines from trees that are close to but aren’t immediately beside the line. 
    “We’re taking action to deal with the increasing risk of damaged infrastructure and support our adaptation to the changing climate,” Mr Watts says.
    The amendments introduce two key measures:

    Enabling lines owners to assess the likelihood and potential impact of a fall for trees they consider could be a risk to lines, then issue a Treefall Hazard Notice for moderate- and high-risk trees.
    Restricting the planting of new trees on land that is not already forested outside of urban areas.

    “We have worked closely with lines owners and other impacted stakeholders to ensure we struck the right balance between security of our electricity supply, protecting property rights, and making sure the forestry sector’s Emissions Trading Scheme-related revenues are not unduly impacted,” Mr Watts says.
    “This Government has made it clear that we are committed to unleashing transmission and distribution infrastructure on our mission to electrify the New Zealand economy. Ensuring the security of our network infrastructure is essential to delivering reliable electricity to all New Zealanders.”
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Questions Michael Cadenazzi, Jr., Vice Admiral Scott Pappano at Senate Armed Services Committee Confirmation Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned the nominees for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, Michael Cadenazzi, Jr., and Principal Deputy Administrator National Nuclear Security Administration, Vice Admiral Scott Pappano, USN, at their confirmation hearing.
    During the hearing, Fischer asked VADM Pappano about ensuring that the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) weapons production remains on schedule. She emphasized the importance of modernized facilities capable of processing the materials necessary for nuclear weapons production.
    Fischer asked Mr. Cadenazzi about working with NNSA and the Department of Energy to grow our skilled manufacturing workforce and address broader industrial base concerns. She also asked about increasing munitions production and the Department of Defense’s National Defense Industrial Strategy.
    Click the image above to watch a video of Fischer’s questioning
    Click here to download audio
    Click here to download video
    Fischer Questions Nominees:Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you Ranking Member Reed. Thank you, gentlemen, for being here today and for your willingness to continue to serve this country. Admiral, thank you for coming in to visit. I appreciated you taking time in the conversation that we had. If confirmed, can you tell me how you will work to ensure that NNSA weapons production remains on schedule?
    VADM Pappano: Thank you, Senator. Yes, if confirmed, obviously, the production—shifting to production—is a key element for us to modernize the nuclear weapons stockpile right now. We’ve done a very good job of stockpile management in a science-based manner and kept up over the years. However, now, we have to transition that from the science-based stockpile management to actual production facilities and make sure we modernize the facilities, making sure that we don’t lose the science in the process and continue that going forward. I’ll look to do that by looking across at how we are modernizing our facilities right now and try to bring as much advanced manufacturing capabilities we can. As we look at the Manhattan Project era buildings that we’re dealing with: a lot of these facilities, how do we—as we modernize those—bring in modern technology so that we can be much more effective going forward in our production of nuclear weapons stockpile.
    Fischer: Thank you. We talked a little bit about NNSA’s 25-year Enterprise Blueprint, a roadmap to modernize the infrastructure there, and some of which, as you brought up in our discussion, dates back to the Manhattan Project. We won’t be able to produce the weapons that we need without the facilities needed to process materials like uranium, lithium, high explosives that go in those nuclear weapons. So, anything we can do as you look at that modernization process, please let us know.Fischer: Mr. Cadenazzi, both the Department of Defense and the NNSA have similar challenges with their industrial bases, and I believe that we have an opportunity now to address underlying issues in a way that strengthens both the nuclear industrial base and the defense industrial base. If confirmed, do you commit to working closely with NNSA and the Department of Energy on policies – like increasing our skilled manufacturing workforce – that would impact both of those industrial bases?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, appreciate the question and the significance of it, particularly in light of the workforce issues and access to materials that we’re facing across the industrial base. These are major challenges that both the NNSA and the broader defense industry face and are dealing with. And if confirmed, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to speak to you about how and where the Industrial Base Policy office and I might be able to focus.
    Fischer: Great. What we’ve seen happen in the Ukraine war has shown us that militaries in modern conflicts, they expend munitions at a much faster pace than we ever expected before. And our stockpiles must be adjusted to account for this, and we must expend our munitions production capacity. We have to expand that. We’ve taken some steps to address it in recent years, and we have the opportunity to make those generational investments through the reconciliation process. In your opening statement, Sir, you said that production must be scaled now before conflict starts. I agree with that. If confirmed, what steps would you take to accomplish that goal?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: Appreciate the question again, Senator, the issue of munitions production is the top of the priority list, and something I’ve discussed with multiple Senators on this committee. I’m excited to work with the committee, if confirmed, on this topic. There are a couple of major things that I think will drive this. One is predictable and stable defense budget and program spend. So, the more we can stabilize that, the more industry will be able to align around it. A better understanding in industry of what the expectations for surge capacity are will make it clear what the potential opportunities are for them, and the level of capital required to increase facilities and workforce. That’s a major opportunity for the Department to articulate what would be a big, hairy, audacious goal in business school terms. And to go ahead and say, “we need a lot more capability from you, and we need to agree then on the investment required to meet that point.” We need to scale the workforce as well. There are many initiatives underway to improve workforce capabilities across the country. We need to grow those and take advantage of small businesses as well. If confirmed, these are all exciting opportunities for us to help address what is an obvious and well reported gap on this issue.
    Fischer: Are you familiar with the Department’s National Defense Industrial Strategy?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: I am, Senator, yes.
    Fischer: Do you have any concerns with that strategy or think that there are gaps there that still need to be addressed?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, I think the strategy is solid given the expectations of the previous administration and the goals they were looking to achieve. I’ve reviewed the external, open-source material for that and the associated implementation plan. If confirmed, I’m eager to work with the Industrial Base Policy office, the administration, and the committees to understand what changes we believe are necessary. I’m happy to work with you on that and to make sure that we tune that to meet the current needs of the moment, particularly in light of the changing requirements of the new administration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cammack’s Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act Passes Energy & Commerce Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06)’s bill, the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, passed through the Energy & Commerce Committee. 

    The bill prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in the organ transplant system. It upholds, clarifies, and builds upon rights established in the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Sec. 504 of the Rehab Act, and Sec.1557 of the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, the bill prohibits covered entities from determining that an individual is ineligible to receive a transplant, deny an organ transplant or related service, refuse to refer the individual to an organ transplant center, refuse to place an individual on a waiting list, or decline insurance coverage for a transplant or related service based solely on the fact that the individual has a disability.

    Named for Charlotte Woodward, an adult with Down syndrome who received a lifesaving heart transplant over a decade ago, the bill also recognizes the importance of auxiliary aids and services, the ability of an individual’s support network to help with post-operative care, and the need for reasonable modifications to policies and procedures to make organ transplant systems and facilities more accessible to those with disabilities. Reps. Cammack and Dingell have been the bill’s sponsors for the last several years. 

    Rep. Cammack’s inspiration for introducing the bill is Baby Zion Sarmiento from Ocala, Florida. Zion was born with Down syndrome and a heart defect in June 2021. Following 40 days in the NICU and five open-heart surgeries, Zion passed away after being denied a heart transplant because of his disability.

    The bill has received the endorsement of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), Autism Speaks, Autism Society of America, the National Down Syndrome Congress, the National Fragile X Foundation, Family Voices National, the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO), and LuMind IDSC Foundation.

    The next stop for the bill is consideration before the full House of Representatives.

    Read the text of the legislation here and watch Rep. Cammack’s remarks during today’s hearing here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: 100 Days – Promises Made, Promises Kept

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) released the following statement to mark President Trump’s first 100 days in office:
    “100 days ago, President Trump returned to Washington, D.C. to shake things up and get this country back on track. All 77 counties in Oklahoma, and Americans across the country, voted overwhelmingly for his bold America First agenda. And after four disastrous years of the Biden Administration, President Trump is delivering on the promises he made to the American people.”  
    “Under President Trump, we have seen win after win. Safety and security are being restored as violent, illegal, criminals are finally being deported. Companies and countries around the world recognize that America is the place to do business with over $5 trillion in new investments pouring in. President Trump is unleashing American energy by eliminating burdensome regulations, supporting energy independence, and strengthening energy security.”
    “Senate and House Republicans are in constant communication with the White House, working in lockstep to implement the President’s policies. The Senate has now confirmed 55 nominees at record pace for President Trump’s all-star team. And we’re just getting started.”
    100 Days of Wins:
    Secure border.
    Lower costs.
    Historic investments.
    Huge deportation operation.
    Energy dominance.
    DEI is OVER in the military.
    Protecting women’s sports.
    Historic government transparency.
    Bringing hostages home.
    Critical DOGE savings.
    Record-breaking recruitment for the military.
    Background:
    To watch Senator Mullin’s video on President Trump’s first 100 days, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: CLIMATEROCK ANNOUNCES REVISED MONTHLY SPONSOR CONTRIBUTION OF $0.04 PER SHARE TO TRUST ACCOUNT FOR PROPOSED EXTENSION

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClimateRock (“ClimateRock” or the “Company”) (OTC: “CLRCF”, “CLRCUF”, “CLRWF”) announced today that, in connection with the Company’s upcoming extraordinary general meeting of shareholders (the “Special Meeting”) to consider and approve an extension of time for the Company to consummate an initial business combination from May 2, 2025 to November 2, 2025 (the “Extension”), U.N. SDG Support LLC (the “Sponsor”) or its designees have agreed to revise their intended contribution to support the Extension, such that they will contribute to the Company as a loan an aggregate of $0.04 for each Class A ordinary share that was sold in the Company’s initial public offering (the “Public Share”) that is not redeemed, for each calendar month (commencing on May 2, 2025 and on the 1st day of each subsequent month) until November 2, 2025 (each, an “Extension Period”), or portion thereof, that is needed to complete an initial business combination (the “Contribution”). For example, if the Company takes until November 2, 2025 to complete its initial business combination, which would represent six calendar months, the Sponsor or its designees would make aggregate Contributions resulting in a redemption amount of approximately $12.34 per unredeemed share, in comparison to the current redemption amount of approximately $12.10 per share.

    Each Contribution will be deposited in the trust account within seven calendar days from the beginning of each Extension Period (or portion thereof), and any Contribution is conditioned upon the implementation of the Extension. No Contribution will occur if the Extension is not approved or is not completed. The amount of each Contribution will not bear interest and will be repayable by the Company to the Sponsor or its designees upon consummation of its initial business combination. The Company will have the sole discretion whether to continue extending for additional calendar months until November 2, 2025. If the Company opts not to utilize any remaining portion of the Extension Period, then the Company will liquidate and dissolve promptly in accordance with its charter, and its Sponsor’s obligation to make additional contributions will terminate.

    In connection with the above announcement of the Contribution to be made by the Sponsor or its designees if the Extension is approved, the deadline for holders of the Company’s Class A ordinary shares issued in the Company’s initial public offering to submit their shares for redemption in connection with the Extension, is being extended to 10:00 a.m., Eastern time, on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

    In addition, the Company agreed to waive its right to withdraw up to $50,000 of interest accrued on the Company’s trust account to pay dissolution expenses, should the Company ultimately liquidate prior to an initial business combination. As a result, the Company will not withdraw up to $50,000 of interest, as permitted by its charter, for such dissolution expenses upon liquidation. If the Extension is approved by shareholders and implemented by the Company, all interest then-accrued will be held in the trust account and will be released to public shareholders upon the earliest to occur of (i) the redemption of the Public Shares in connection with a vote seeking to amend the provisions of the Company’s charter, (ii) the completion of the Company’s initial business combination and (iii) the redemption of 100% of the Public Shares if the Company is unable to complete its initial business combination by November 2, 2025 or such earlier date as determined by the Company’s board of directors.

    About ClimateRock

    ClimateRock is a special purpose acquisition company led by Chairman, Charles Ratelband, and CEO, Per Regnarsson, and is incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses in any industry or geographic location, but it is focused on acquiring a target within the sustainable energy industry in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, including climate change, environment, renewable energy and emerging, clean technologies. For more information, please visit Driving The Energy Transition – ClimateRock (climate-rock.com).

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements and factors that may cause such differences include, without limitation, uncertainties relating to the Company’s shareholder approval of the Extension, its inability to complete an initial business combination within the required time period or, and other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 under the heading “Risk Factors” and in other reports the Company has filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    ClimateRock and its directors, executive officers, other members of management and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the securityholders of the Company in favor of the approval of the Extension Proposal. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of the Company’s directors and officers in the Company’s definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on April 17, 2025 (as may be amended, the “Proxy Statement”), which may be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release s shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Extension. This communication shall also not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    ClimateRock urges investors, shareholders and other interested persons to read the Proxy Statement as well as other documents filed by the Company with the SEC, because these documents will contain important information about the Company and the Extension. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, without charge, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Advantage Proxy, Inc., P.O. Box 10904, Yakima, WA 98909, Attn: Karen Smith.

    INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT

    ClimateRock
    Phone number: +44 208 050 7820
    Email: info@climate-rock.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Idaho and Trump Administration Sign Agreement to Support U.S. Nuclear Energy Future

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Idaho and Trump Administration Sign Agreement to Support U.S. Nuclear Energy Future

    BOISE — The State of Idaho and the U.S. Department of Energy have agreed to a targeted waiver of the 1995 Settlement Agreement. The agreement established milestones to remove legacy waste at the Idaho National Laboratory site while allowing nuclear energy research and development at the lab.
    The waiver will enable critical research on a high burnup nuclear fuel cask from a commercial nuclear power plant. This research will provide data to support licensing for the extended storage of spent fuel at 54 nuclear power plants in 28 states.
    “The collaborative effort between the State of Idaho, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the Idaho National Laboratory showcases our commitment to advancing nuclear energy research while upholding the goals of the 1995 Settlement Agreement. We are proud to support innovation in nuclear energy that will support national security and energy independence into the future,” Governor Brad Little said.
    “This agreement protects Idaho’s interests and supports important research that will strengthen America’s energy security. We’re grateful for the Trump Administration’s work with Idaho to honor the 1995 Settlement Agreement and advance innovation safely and responsibly. Idaho will always protect our land, our people, and our future,” Attorney General Raúl Labrador said.
    “Idaho National Laboratory is DOE’s lead lab for nuclear energy research and development, and it is critical that we continue to grow this research capacity and maintain American competitiveness,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said. “This agreement between the State of Idaho and DOE ensures the lab can continue its cutting-edge research to advance nuclear technology, helping to meet President Trump’s commitment to unleash American energy dominance.”
    “As the nation’s center for nuclear energy research and development, we look forward to utilizing our unique facilities and expertise to support this critical national need. We are thankful to the Department of Energy and the state of Idaho for entrusting us with the safe and secure execution of our vital mission,” INL Director John Wagner said.
    “Thanks to the state of Idaho’s foresight, INL will continue to uphold and expand its legacy as the nation’s premier nuclear energy research, development and demonstration laboratory,” DOE-Idaho Operations Manager Robert Boston said.
    Modern commercial nuclear fuels are more efficient, lowering costs for utilities and their customers. To ensure continued safe storage, the nuclear industry and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission require data to confirm the performance of nuclear fuel during long-term storage. These data are crucial to over 70% of today’s dry storage facilities, allowing them to renew their licenses and continue safely storing this nuclear fuel.
    The waiver enables INL to address a national need not envisioned when the Settlement Agreement was established three decades ago while supporting the national commitment to energy independence. This research will help sustain the current U.S. nuclear reactor fleet, which produces nearly 20% of the nation’s electricity, and reinforces Idaho’s critical role in supporting the U.S. nuclear industry.
    The waiver also supports research reactors at American universities, which play an essential role in educating the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers while enabling vital nuclear research. This waiver permits INL to safely manage small amounts of spent nuclear fuel from domestic university reactors, preserving this crucial national research and talent pipeline. Without this waiver, some universities risk having to shut down their research reactors due to regulatory limits on spent fuel storage. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Releases Statement on Trump’s First 100 Days

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Larsen Releases Statement on Trump’s First 100 Days

    Washington, D.C., April 29, 2025

    Today, Rep. Rick Larsen released a statement on President Trump’s first 100 days in office:

    “Let’s look at some numbers to judge the President’s performance.

    • 5.5% – the increase in the cost of eggs in Everett since Trump took office. (Source: comparing prices in Everett grocery stores.)
    • 8.91% – the increase in the cost of gas in Washington state since Trump took office. (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration)
    • $4,600 – the increased costs each year that the average family will face because of Trump’s reckless trade war. (Source: Center for American Progress)
    • 65,000 – the decrease in the number of border crossings from Canada into Whatcom County compared to the same time in March 2024. (Source: NBC News)
    • $9.6 trillion – the stock market value that has been wiped out since Trump took office. (Source: MarketWatch)
    • 60,000 – the number of federal workers fired by Musk and DOGE (Source: Seattle Times)
    • $4.5 trillion – the amount of tax cuts over ten years in the Republican Rip-Off budget, paid for by slashing health care, education, food assistance and other critical services people in Northwest Washington rely on. (Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities)
    • 210 – the number of lawsuits filed by Americans across the country in the past 14 weeks directly challenging Trump’s orders. (Source: House Judiciary Committee)
    • 108 – the number of court orders from federal judges to block or pause Trump’s lawless and unconstitutional actions. (Source: House Judiciary Committee)

    “In his first 100 days, President Trump has driven costs up, cut critical services and trampled on the Constitution. Alongside House Democrats, I am pushing back on the Trump administration in Congress, in the courts and in our communities to protect my friends and neighbors in Northwest Washington.

    “Your first-hand experiences are essential in this fight. I need to hear from you about how the Trump administration has impacted your life, your job and your loved ones. You can share your story here: https://democraticleader.house.gov/shareyourstory.”


    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Montauk Renewables Schedules First Quarter 2025 Conference Call for Friday, May 9, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. ET

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PITTSBURGH, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Montauk Renewables, Inc. (“Montauk” or “the Company”) (NASDAQ: MNTK), a renewable energy company specializing in the management, recovery and conversion of biogas into renewable natural gas (“RNG”), will host a conference call and webcast on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. The Company will issue a press release reporting the financial results after the close of regular stock market trading hours on the day prior to the conference call and webcast.

    First Quarter 2025 Conference Call and Webcast Details

    Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
    Time: 8:30 a.m. ET
    Participant Access: [Link Here]
       

    Please register for the conference call and webcast using the above link in advance of the call start time. The webcast platform will register your name and organization as well as provide dial-in numbers and a unique access pin. Please contact Gateway Group at (949) 574-3860 if you experience technical difficulties.

    The conference call and webcast will have a live Q&A session and be available here and on the Company’s website at https://ir.montaukrenewables.com.

    A replay of the conference call and webcast will be available after 11:30 a.m. Eastern time on the same day through May 9, 2026.

    About Montauk Renewables, Inc.

    Montauk Renewables, Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTK) is a renewable energy company specializing in the management, recovery and conversion of biogas into RNG. The Company captures methane, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere, and converts it into either RNG or electrical power for the electrical grid (“Renewable Electricity”). The Company, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has more than 30 years of experience in the development, operation and management of landfill methane-fueled renewable energy projects. The Company has operations at 13 projects and ongoing development projects located in California, Idaho, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Texas. The Company sells RNG and Renewable Electricity, taking advantage of Environmental Attribute premiums available under federal and state policies that incentivize their use. For more information, visit https://ir.montaukrenewables.com.

    Company Contact:

    John Ciroli
    Chief Legal Officer (CLO) & Secretary
    investors@montaukenergy.com
    (412) 747-8700

    Investor Relations Contact:

    Georg Venturatos
    Gateway Group
    MNTK@Gateway-grp.com
    (949) 574-3860

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Joins Senators Pressing Administration on How Mass CFPB Firings Will Hurt Working Nevadans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined 40 Democratic Senators in a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought outlining more than 80 congressionally mandated functions of the CFPB and pressing for answers on how the agency would be able to protect hardworking Americans from scams and fraud after firing almost the entire staff.

    Senator Cortez Masto has been a longstanding champion for the CFPB and has consistently fought to protect Nevadans from fraud. Last year, she called out the Navy Federal Credit Union for its racial disparities in mortgage lending. Following a push from Cortez Masto, the CFPB created new consumer protections for homeowners who apply for Property Assessed Clean Energy loans to help them make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. She has also introduced legislation to incentivize whistleblowers to report consumer fraud to the CFPB.

    “Last week, you tried to fire nearly all of the agency’s remaining 1,700 employees—the staff responsible for fulfilling the CFPB’s mission and statutory requirements to prevent Americans from getting scammed by big banks and giant corporations,” wrote the senators. “Your hasty and unjustified mass firings are an illegal shutdown of the CFPB that will leave it unable to conduct agency actions that are required by law.”

    “You directed the gutting of entire divisions—including departments created by Congress to protect servicemembers and older Americans—attempting to leave a shell of only 200 employees to supervise and examine large financial institutions across the country, respond to millions of consumer complaints, answer the phone for hundreds of thousands of people seeking help, monitor emergency financial risks, and run all of the agency’s other operations,” they continued.

    The Senators laid out in detail the impact the mass layoffs would have on specific functions of the CFPB––including firing all but one employee helping victims of scams in the offices focused on our nation’s two million servicemembers and tens of millions of older Americans.

    “We request that you provide—by April 30, 2025—a detailed accounting of each of the more than 80 statutory obligations of the CFPB, the number of employees assigned to each of those functions as of December 2024, the number of employees who would be assigned to each function if your rushed reduction in force were to go into effect, the immediate impact of such a reduction on the agency’s ability to perform each function consistent with federal law and federal court orders, and copies of any individualized or particularized analysis of those planned reductions on the agency’s work,” they concluded.

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has pushed multiple Departments under the Trump Administration for detailed, public information regarding the impacts of President Trump’s federal funding freeze, hiring freeze, and terminations on Nevada – including to the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Nuclear Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Agriculture, General Services Administration, and Department of Health and Human Services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Applauds Woodside Energy’s Historic $17.5 Billion LNG Investment in Louisiana

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the announcement that the Woodside Energy Group Ltd, will invest $17.5 billion in Calcasieu Parish for a greenfield liquified natural gas (LNG) export facility. The project, called Louisiana LNG, is the largest single greenfield investment and the largest single foreign direct investment in Louisiana history. Louisiana LNG will support 15,000 jobs during construction and thousands more per year once operational.
    “History is being made today because Louisiana has become a place companies want to invest in,” said Dr. Cassidy. “President Trump’s first 100 days have been filled with great wins for American energy and jobs. Louisiana has been at the center of it.”
    Louisiana LNG is the first greenfield LNG export facility to advance since President Trump rolled back the Biden-Harris administration’s disastrous pause on LNG export permits. 
    Background
    In January, Cassidy released a statement applauding President Trump’s executive order to lift the Biden administration’s harmful pause on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export permitting. Last year, immediately following the Biden-Harris administration’s announcement that they would freeze pending applications for LNG export permits, Cassidy led 25 of his Republican colleagues in condemning the decision. Cassidy also delivered a speech on the U.S. Senator floor blasting the decision.
    He also introduced with U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) the LNG Security Act to reverse President Biden’s LNG export ban and require the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to approve LNG exports to all countries that have imported, currently import, or are capable of importing Russian or Iranian natural gas. Additionally, he introduced the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act, which depoliticizes the export of American liquefied natural gas. It eliminates the requirement for the DOE to authorize exports and instead gives the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) sole authority over the approval process. 
    In February 2024, Cassidy penned an op-ed with U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) in the Houston Chronicle underscoring the devastating economic, environmental, and national security impacts of the Biden-Harris decision to freeze new LNG export projects.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Renewables, coal or nuclear? This election, your generation’s energy preference may play a surprising role

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Magnus Söderberg, Professor & Director, Centre for Applied Energy Economics and Policy Research, Griffith University

    Christie Cooper/Shutterstock

    In an otherwise unremarkable election campaign, the major parties are promising sharply different energy blueprints for Australia. Labor is pitching a high-renewables future powered largely by wind, solar, hydroelectricity and batteries. The Coalition wants more gas and coal now, and would build nuclear power later.

    So how might these two competing visions play out as Australia goes to the polls this Saturday?

    Research shows clear generational preferences when it comes to producing electricity. Younger Australians prefer renewables while older people favour coal and gas. The one exception is nuclear power, which is split much more on gender lines than age – 51% of Australian men support it, but just 26% of women.

    While many voters are focused squarely on the cost of living, energy prices feed directly into how much everything costs. Research has shown that as power prices rise, the more likely it is an incumbent government will be turfed out.

    Coal, renewables or nuclear?

    About half of young Australians (18–34) want the country powered by renewables by 2030, according to a 2023 survey of energy consumers. Only 13% of the youngest (18–24) group think there’s no need to change or that it’s impossible. But resistance increases directly with age. From retirement age and up, 29% favour a renewable grid by 2030 while 44% think there’s no need or that it’s impossible.

    On nuclear, the divide is less clear. The Coalition has promised to build Australia’s first nuclear reactors if elected, and Coalition leader Peter Dutton has claimed young people back nuclear. That’s based on a Newspoll survey showing almost two-thirds (65%) of Australians aged 18–34 supported nuclear power.

    But other polls give a quite different story: 46% support for nuclear by younger Australians in an Essential poll compared to 56% support by older Australians. A Savanta poll put young support at just 36%.

    There’s a gender component too. The demographic most opposed to nuclear are women over 55.

    Younger voters remain strongly committed to environmental goals – but they’re also wary of cost blowouts and electricity price rises. Some see nuclear as a zero emissions technology able to help with the clean energy transition.

    Older Australians are more likely to be sceptical of nuclear power. This is likely due to nuclear disasters such as Chernobyl as well as the prospect of nuclear war during the Cold War.

    It’s an open question how robust support for nuclear would be if the Coalition was elected and began the long, expensive process of construction. New findings by the National Climate Action Survey shows almost 40% of Australians would be “extremely concerned” if a nuclear power plant was built within 50 kilometres of their homes and another 16% “very concerned”.

    These energy preferences aren’t just found in Australia. In recent research my co-authors and I found a clear divide in Sweden: younger favour renewables and nuclear, older favour fossil fuels. Why the difference? Sweden already gets about 40% of its power from nuclear, while renewables now provide about 40% of Australia’s power.

    We found younger Swedes strongly favoured renewables – but also supported nuclear power, especially when electricity prices rose. That is because nuclear is perceived to stabilise the supply of electricity. They wanted clean energy, as long as it was reliable and affordable. Our study found older people were not necessarily pro-fossil fuels, but were more focused on keeping energy affordable – especially for businesses and industry.

    When electricity prices rose in Sweden, our survey respondents broadly became less concerned about climate change and more likely to be favourable to nuclear energy.

    In Australia, the cost of the clean energy transition has crept up. While solar and wind offer cheap power once built, there are hidden costs.

    If electricity prices keep rising, we should expect to see declining support for the clean energy transition.

    Overcoming the energy divide

    During Australia’s decade-long climate wars from roughly 2012 to 2022, climate change was heavily politicised and energy became a political football. Under a Coalition government in 2014, Australia became the first nation to abolish a carbon tax.

    Labor took office in 2022 pledging to end the climate wars and fast-track the clean energy transition. But the Coalition has opened up a new divide on energy by proposing nuclear power by the 2040s and more gas and coal in the meantime.

    This election, the cost of living is the single biggest issue for 25% of voters in the ABC’s Vote Compass poll. But climate change is still the main concern for about 8% of voters, energy for 4% and the environment 3.5%. Here, Coalition backing for fossil fuels and nuclear may attract some older and younger voters but repel others. Labor’s renewable transition may attract younger voters but lose older energy traditionalists.

    Energy preferences could play out through a cost of living lens. Parties pushing too hard on green policies this election risk alienating older voters concerned about rising costs. But going nuclear would be very expensive, and keeping old coal plants going isn’t cheap. Downplaying climate action or dismissing nuclear outright could alienate some younger Australians, who are climate-conscious and energy-savvy.

    Policymakers should resist framing energy as a zero-sum game. There is a path forward which can unite generations: coupling ambitious climate targets with pragmatic policies to protect consumers. Transitional supports such as energy rebates, time-of-use pricing or community-scale renewables and batteries can soften any economic impact while building public trust.

    Our research suggests electricity price rises can quickly erode support even for well-designed energy policies.

    As Australia navigates a complex and costly transition, keeping both younger and older generations on board may be the greatest political – and moral – challenge of all.

    Magnus Söderberg does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Renewables, coal or nuclear? This election, your generation’s energy preference may play a surprising role – https://theconversation.com/renewables-coal-or-nuclear-this-election-your-generations-energy-preference-may-play-a-surprising-role-253832

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Expand Energy Corporation Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OKLAHOMA CITY, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expand Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: EXE) (“Expand Energy” or the “Company”) today reported first quarter 2025 financial and operating results.

    • Net cash provided by operating activities of $1,096 million
    • Net loss of $249 million, or $1.06 per fully diluted share; adjusted net income(1)of $487 million, or $2.02 per share
    • Adjusted EBITDAX(1)of $1,395 million
    • Produced approximately 6.79 Bcfe/d net (92% natural gas)
    • Added to the S&P 500, effective March 24, 2025
    • Upgraded to Investment Grade credit rating by Moody’s (Baa3); achieved uniform Investment Grade rating from all rating agencies
    • Quarterly base dividend of $0.575 per common share to be paid in June 2025, 17th straight quarter of paying a dividend
    • On track to capture approximately $400 million in 2025 synergies, with the total target of $500 million in annual synergies expected to be achieved by year end 2026

    (1) Definitions of non-GAAP financial measures and reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure are included at the end of this news release.

    “Overcoming market volatility requires a resilient financial foundation, a deep market-connected portfolio, and low cost, efficient operations, all hallmarks of our strategy,” said Nick Dell’Osso, Expand Energy’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We continue to execute our business, utilizing our productive capacity to navigate today’s dynamic macro environment and be prepared to efficiently respond as market conditions change.”

    Operations Update

    Expand Energy operated an average of 11 rigs during the first quarter, drilling 46 wells and turning 89 wells in line, resulting in net production of approximately 6.79 Bcfe per day (92% natural gas). A detailed breakdown of first quarter production, capital expenditures and activity can be found in supplemental slides which have been posted at https://investors.expandenergy.com/events-presentations.

    2025 Annual Synergy, Capital and Operating Outlook

    In 2025, Expand Energy expects to run approximately 12 rigs and invest approximately $2.7 billion yielding an estimated daily production of approximately 7.1 Bcfe/d. The Company intends to build incremental productive capacity for an additional $300 million by exiting 2025 with approximately 15 rigs. This incremental capital investment positions the Company to efficiently grow production from a year-end 2025 exit rate of approximately 7.2 Bcfe/d to average approximately 7.5 Bcfe/d in 2026 should market conditions warrant.

    Expand Energy is on track to capture its 2025 expected annual synergy target of approximately $400 million. The Company expects to achieve the full $500 million in annual synergies by year end 2026.

    A detailed breakdown of 2025 annual synergy, capital, and operating outlook can be found in supplemental slides which have been posted at https://investors.expandenergy.com/events-presentations.

    Shareholder Returns Update

    Expand Energy enhanced its capital return framework in 2024 to more efficiently return cash to shareholders and reduce Net Debt. The Company plans to pay its quarterly base dividend of $0.575 per share on June 4, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on May 15, 2025. The Company expects to allocate $500 million to Net Debt reduction in 2025, and at current market conditions, to have additional free cash flow available to allocate to the combination of variable dividends, share repurchases, and the balance sheet.

    Conference Call Information

    A conference call to discuss Expand Energy’s first quarter 2025 financial and operating results and 2025 outlook has been scheduled for 9 a.m. EDT on April 30, 2025. Participants can access the live webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/kn8j2wew/. Participants who would like to ask a question, can register at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIb82422792483441f93f8794cbf385f7c, and will receive the dial-in info and a unique PIN to join the call. Links to the conference call will be provided at https://investors.expandenergy.com/. A replay will be available on the website following the call.

    Financial Statements, Non-GAAP Financial Measures and 2025 Guidance and Outlook Projections

    This news release contains the non-GAAP financial measures described below in the section titled “Non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure used in this news release to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure are provided below. Additional detail on the Company’s 2025 first quarter financial and operational results, along with non-GAAP measures that adjust for items typically excluded by securities analysts, are available on the Company’s website. Non-GAAP measures should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, GAAP measures. Management’s guidance for 2025 can be found on the Company’s website at https://www.expandenergy.com/.

    Expand Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: EXE) is the largest natural gas producer in the United States, powered by dedicated and innovative employees focused on disrupting the industry’s traditional cost and market delivery model to responsibly develop assets in the nation’s most prolific natural gas basins. Expand Energy’s returns-driven strategy strives to create sustainable value for its stakeholders by leveraging its scale, financial strength and operational execution. Expand Energy is committed to expanding America’s energy reach to fuel a more affordable, reliable, lower carbon future.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This 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. Forward-looking statements include our current expectations or forecasts of future events, including matters relating to armed conflict and instability in Europe and the Middle East, along with the effects of the current global economic environment, and the impact of each on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, actions by, or disputes among or between, members of OPEC+ and other foreign oil-exporting countries, market factors, market prices, our ability to meet debt service requirements, our ability to continue to pay cash dividends, our ability to capture synergies, the amount and timing of any cash dividends and our environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) initiatives. Forward-looking and other statements in this news release regarding our environmental, social and other sustainability plans and goals are not an indication that these statements are necessarily material to investors or required to be disclosed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange commission (“SEC”). In addition, historical, current, and forward-looking environmental, social and sustainability-related statements may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business, financial performance and financial condition, and often contain words such as “aim”, “predict”, “should”, “expect,” “could,” “may,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “ability,” “believe,” “seek,” “see,” “will,” “would,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “target,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “opportunity” or “strategy.” The absence of such words or expressions does not necessarily mean the statements are not forward-looking.

    Although we believe the expectations and forecasts reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, they are inherently subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. No assurance can be given that such forward-looking statements will be correct or achieved or that the assumptions are accurate or will not change over time. Particular uncertainties that could cause our actual results to be materially different than those expressed in our forward-looking statements include:

    • Reduced demand for natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids (“NGLs”);
    • negative public perceptions of our industry;
    • competition in the natural gas and oil exploration and production industry;
    • the volatility of natural gas, oil and NGL prices, which are affected by general economic and business conditions, as well as increased demand for (and availability of) alternative fuels and electric vehicles;
    • risks from regional epidemics or pandemics and related economic turmoil, including supply chain constraints;
    • write-downs of our natural gas and oil asset carrying values due to low commodity prices;
    • significant capital expenditures are required to replace our reserves and conduct our business;
    • our ability to replace reserves and sustain production;
    • uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL reserves and projecting future rates of production and the amount and timing of development expenditures;
    • drilling and operating risks and resulting liabilities;
    • our ability to generate profits or achieve targeted results in drilling and well operations;
    • leasehold terms expiring before production can be established;
    • risks from our commodity price risk management activities;
    • uncertainties, risks and costs associated with natural gas and oil operations;
    • our need to secure adequate supplies of water for our drilling operations and to dispose of or recycle the water used;
    • pipeline and gathering system capacity constraints and transportation interruptions;
    • risks related to our plans to participate in the global LNG value chain;
    • terrorist activities and/or cyber-attacks adversely impacting our operations;
    • risks from failure to protect personal information and data and compliance with data privacy and security laws and regulations;
    • disruption of our business by natural or human causes beyond our control;
    • a deterioration in general economic, business or industry conditions;
    • the impact of inflation and commodity price volatility, including as a result of decisions made by OPEC+ and armed conflict and instability in Europe and the Middle East, along with the effects of the current global economic environment, on our business, financial condition, employees, contractors, vendors and the global demand for natural gas and oil and on U.S. and global financial markets;
    • our inability to access the capital markets on favorable terms;
    • the limitations on our financial flexibility due to our level of indebtedness and restrictive covenants from our indebtedness;
    • challenges with employee retention and increasingly competitive labor market
    • risks related to acquisitions or dispositions, or potential acquisitions or dispositions;
    • security threats, including cybersecurity threats and disruptions to our business and operations from breaches of our information technology systems, or from breaches of information technology systems of third parties with whom we transact business;
    • our ability to achieve and maintain ESG certifications, goals and commitments;
    • legislative, regulatory, and ESG initiatives, including those addressing the impact of climate change or further regulating hydraulic fracturing, methane emissions, flaring or water disposal;
    • federal and state tax proposals affecting our industry;
    • risks related to an annual limitation on the utilization of our tax attributes, which was triggered upon the completion of our merger with Southwestern Energy Company (the “Southwestern Merger”), as well as trading in our common stock, additional issuance of common stock, and certain other stock transactions, which could lead to an additional, potentially more restrictive, annual limitation; and
    • other factors that are described under Risk Factors in Item 1A of Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC.

    We caution you not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this news release, which speak only as of the filing date, and we undertake no obligation and have no intention to update any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. We urge you to carefully review and consider the disclosures in this news release and our filings with the SEC that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business.

    All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited)
    ($ in millions, except per share data)   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Assets        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 349     $ 317  
    Restricted cash     78       78  
    Accounts receivable, net     1,361       1,226  
    Derivative assets     —       84  
    Other current assets     325       292  
    Total current assets     2,113       1,997  
    Property and equipment:        
    Natural gas and oil properties, successful efforts method        
    Proved natural gas and oil properties     23,874       23,093  
    Unproved properties     5,774       5,897  
    Other property and equipment     678       654  
    Total property and equipment     30,326       29,644  
    Less: accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization     (6,066 )     (5,362 )
    Total property and equipment, net     24,260       24,282  
    Long-term derivative assets     2       1  
    Deferred income tax assets     626       589  
    Other long-term assets     933       1,025  
    Total assets   $ 27,934     $ 27,894  
             
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
    Current liabilities:        
    Accounts payable   $ 654     $ 777  
    Current maturities of long-term debt, net     —       389  
    Accrued interest     68       100  
    Derivative liabilities     896       71  
    Other current liabilities     1,971       1,786  
    Total current liabilities     3,589       3,123  
    Long-term debt, net     5,243       5,291  
    Long-term derivative liabilities     129       68  
    Asset retirement obligations, net of current portion     506       499  
    Long-term contract liabilities     1,159       1,227  
    Other long-term liabilities     117       121  
    Total liabilities     10,743       10,329  
    Contingencies and commitments        
    Stockholders’ equity:        
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 450,000,000 shares authorized: 237,476,127 and 231,769,886 shares issued     2       2  
    Additional paid-in capital     13,700       13,687  
    Retained earnings     3,489       3,876  
    Total stockholders’ equity     17,191       17,565  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 27,934     $ 27,894  
                     
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    ($ in millions, except per share data)        
    Revenues and other:        
    Natural gas, oil and NGL   $ 2,300     $ 589  
    Marketing     910       312  
    Natural gas, oil and NGL derivatives     (1,014 )     172  
    Gains on sales of assets     —       8  
    Total revenues and other     2,196       1,081  
    Operating expenses:        
    Production     147       59  
    Gathering, processing and transportation     563       173  
    Severance and ad valorem taxes     48       29  
    Exploration     7       2  
    Marketing     919       323  
    General and administrative     47       47  
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization     711       399  
    Other operating expense, net     22       17  
    Total operating expenses     2,464       1,049  
    Income (loss) from operations     (268 )     32  
    Other income (expense):        
    Interest expense     (59 )     (19 )
    Other income, net     8       20  
    Total other income (expense)     (51 )     1  
    Income (loss) before income taxes     (319 )     33  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (70 )     7  
    Net income (loss)   $ (249 )   $ 26  
    Earnings (loss) per common share:        
    Basic   $ (1.06 )   $ 0.20  
    Diluted   $ (1.06 )   $ 0.18  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding (in thousands):        
    Basic     234,434       130,893  
    Diluted     234,434       141,752  
                     
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
    ($ in millions)     2025       2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net income (loss)   $ (249 )   $ 26  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:        
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization     711       399  
    Deferred income tax expense (benefit)     (37 )     7  
    Derivative (gains) losses, net     1,014       (172 )
    Cash receipts (payments) on derivative settlements, net     (45 )     228  
    Share-based compensation     9       9  
    Gains on sales of assets     —       (8 )
    Contract amortization     (52 )     —  
    Other     (4 )     (13 )
    Changes in assets and liabilities     (251 )     76  
    Net cash provided by operating activities     1,096       552  
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Capital expenditures     (563 )     (421 )
    Receipts of deferred consideration     60       60  
    Contributions to investments     (4 )     (19 )
    Proceeds from divestitures of property and equipment     —       6  
    Net cash used in investing activities     (507 )     (374 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from Credit Facility     725       —  
    Payments on Credit Facility     (725 )     —  
    Proceeds from warrant exercise     21       —  
    Cash paid to purchase debt     (436 )     —  
    Cash paid for common stock dividends     (142 )     (77 )
    Net cash used in financing activities     (557 )     (77 )
    Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash     32       101  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period     395       1,153  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period   $ 427     $ 1,254  
             
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 349     $ 1,179  
    Restricted cash     78       75  
    Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   $ 427     $ 1,254  
                     
    NATURAL GAS, OIL AND NGL PRODUCTION AND AVERAGE SALES PRICES (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
        Natural Gas   Oil   NGL   Total
        MMcf per day   $/Mcf   MBbl per day   $/Bbl   MBbl per day   $/Bbl   MMcfe per day   $/Mcfe
    Haynesville   2,617   3.48   —   —   —   —   2,617   3.48
    Northeast Appalachia   2,668   3.75   —   —   —   —   2,668   3.75
    Southwest Appalachia   969   3.38   14   63.40   75   30.54   1,503   4.28
    Total   6,254   3.58   14   63.40   75   30.54   6,788   3.76
                                     
    Average NYMEX Price       3.65       71.42                
    Average Realized Price (including realized derivatives)       3.51       63.76       29.35       3.69
        Three Months Ended March 31, 2024
        Natural Gas   Oil   NGL   Total
        MMcf per day   $/Mcf   MBbl per day   $/Bbl   MBbl per day   $/Bbl   MMcfe per day   $/Mcfe
    Haynesville   1,478   2.03   —   —   —   —   1,478   2.03
    Northeast Appalachia   1,720   2.03   —   —   —   —   1,720   2.03
    Total   3,198   2.03   —   —   —   —   3,198   2.03
                                     
    Average NYMEX Price       2.24       —                
    Average Realized Price (including realized derivatives)       2.85       —       —       2.85
                                     
    CAPITAL EXPENDITURES ACCRUED (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025     2024
    ($ in millions)        
    Drilling and completion capital expenditures:        
    Haynesville   $ 286   $ 195
    Northeast Appalachia     103     105
    Southwest Appalachia     165     —
    Total drilling and completion capital expenditures     554     300
    Non-drilling and completion – field     56     35
    Non-drilling and completion – corporate     52     19
    Total capital expenditures   $ 662   $ 354
                 
    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

    As a supplement to the financial results prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Expand Energy’s quarterly earnings releases contain certain financial measures that are not prepared or presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures include Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Common Share, Adjusted EBITDAX, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Free Cash Flow and Net Debt. A reconciliation of each financial measure to its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is included in the tables below. Management believes these adjusted financial measures are a meaningful adjunct to earnings and cash flows calculated in accordance with GAAP because (a) management uses these financial measures to evaluate the Company’s trends and performance, (b) these financial measures are comparable to estimates provided by securities analysts, and (c) items excluded generally are one-time items or items whose timing or amount cannot be reasonably estimated. Accordingly, any guidance provided by the Company generally excludes information regarding these types of items.

    Expand Energy’s definitions of each non-GAAP measure presented herein are provided below. Because not all companies or securities analysts use identical calculations, Expand Energy’s non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies or securities analysts.

    Adjusted Net Income: Adjusted Net Income is defined as net income (loss) adjusted to exclude unrealized (gains) losses on natural gas and oil derivatives, (gains) losses on sales of assets, and certain items management believes affect the comparability of operating results, less a tax effect using applicable rates. Expand Energy believes that Adjusted Net Income facilitates comparisons of the Company’s period-over-period performance, by excluding the impact of items that, in the opinion of management, do not reflect Expand Energy’s core operating performance. Adjusted Net Income should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net income (loss) as presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Common Share: Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Common Share is defined as diluted earnings (loss) per common share adjusted to exclude the per diluted share amounts attributed to unrealized (gains) losses on natural gas and oil derivatives, (gains) losses on sales of assets, and certain items management believes affect the comparability of operating results, less a tax effect using applicable rates. Expand Energy believes that Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Common Share facilitates comparisons of the Company’s period-over-period performance, by excluding the impact of items that, in the opinion of management, do not reflect Expand Energy’s core operating performance. Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Common Share should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, earnings (loss) per common share as presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Adjusted EBITDAX: Adjusted EBITDAX is defined as net income (loss) before interest expense, income tax expense (benefit), depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, exploration expense, unrealized (gains) losses on natural gas and oil derivatives, separation and other termination costs, (gains) losses on sales of assets, and certain items management believes affect the comparability of operating results. Adjusted EBITDAX is presented as it provides investors an indication of the Company’s ability to internally fund exploration and development activities and service or incur debt. Adjusted EBITDAX should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net income (loss) as presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Free Cash Flow: Free Cash Flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities less cash capital expenditures. Free Cash Flow is a liquidity measure that provides investors additional information regarding the Company’s ability to service or incur debt and return cash to shareholders. Free Cash Flow should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, or any other measure of liquidity presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Adjusted Free Cash Flow: Adjusted Free Cash Flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities less cash capital expenditures and cash contributions to investments, adjusted to exclude certain items management believes affect the comparability of operating results. Adjusted Free Cash Flow is a liquidity measure that provides investors additional information regarding the Company’s ability to service or incur debt and return cash to shareholders and is used to determine Expand Energy’s payout of enhanced returns framework. Adjusted Free Cash Flow should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, or any other measure of liquidity presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Net Debt: Net Debt is defined as GAAP total debt excluding premiums, discounts, and deferred issuance costs less cash and cash equivalents. Net Debt is useful to investors as a widely understood measure of liquidity and leverage, but this measure should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, total debt presented in accordance with GAAP.

    RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME (LOSS) TO ADJUSTED NET INCOME (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
    ($ in millions)     2025       2024  
    Net income (loss) (GAAP)   $ (249 )   $ 26  
             
    Adjustments:        
    Unrealized losses on natural gas and oil derivatives     969       67  
    Gains on sales of assets     —       (8 )
    Other operating expense, net     26       19  
    Contract amortization     (52 )     —  
    Other     (4 )     (8 )
    Tax effect of adjustments(a)     (203 )     (16 )
    Adjusted net income (Non-GAAP)   $ 487     $ 80  
    (a) The three month periods ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 include a tax effect attributed to reconciling adjustments using a statutory rate of 22% and 23%, respectively.
       
    RECONCILIATION OF EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE TO ADJUSTED DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
    ($/share)     2025       2024  
    Earnings (loss) per common share (GAAP)   $ (1.06 )   $ 0.20  
    Effect of dilutive securities     —       (0.02 )
    Diluted earnings (loss) per common share (GAAP)   $ (1.06 )   $ 0.18  
             
    Adjustments:        
    Unrealized losses on natural gas and oil derivatives     4.14       0.47  
    Gains on sales of assets     —       (0.06 )
    Other operating expense, net     0.11       0.14  
    Contract amortization     (0.22 )     —  
    Other     (0.02 )     (0.06 )
    Tax effect of adjustments(a)     (0.87 )     (0.11 )
    Effect of dilutive securities     (0.06 )     —  
    Adjusted diluted earnings per common share (Non-GAAP)   $ 2.02     $ 0.56  
    (a) The three month periods ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 include a tax effect attributed to reconciling adjustments using a statutory rate of 22% and 23%, respectively.
       
    RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME (LOSS) TO ADJUSTED EBITDAX (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    ($ in millions)        
    Net income (loss) (GAAP)   $ (249 )   $ 26  
             
    Adjustments:        
    Interest expense     59       19  
    Income tax expense (benefit)     (70 )     7  
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization     711       399  
    Exploration     7       2  
    Unrealized losses on natural gas and oil derivatives     969       67  
    Gains on sales of assets     —       (8 )
    Other operating expense, net     26       19  
    Contract amortization     (52 )     —  
    Other     (6 )     (23 )
    Adjusted EBITDAX (Non-GAAP)   $ 1,395     $ 508  
                     
    RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES TO ADJUSTED FREE CASH FLOW (unaudited)
        Three Months Ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    ($ in millions)        
    Net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP)   $ 1,096     $ 552  
    Cash capital expenditures     (563 )     (421 )
    Free cash flow (Non-GAAP)     533       131  
    Cash paid for merger expenses     48       —  
    Cash contributions to investments     (4 )     (19 )
    Adjusted free cash flow (Non-GAAP)   $ 577     $ 112  
                     
    RECONCILIATION OF TOTAL DEBT TO NET DEBT (unaudited)
    ($ in millions)   March 31, 2025
    Total debt (GAAP)   $ 5,243  
    Premiums, discounts and issuance costs on debt     7  
    Principal amount of debt     5,250  
    Cash and cash equivalents     (349 )
    Net debt (Non-GAAP)   $ 4,901  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Haven Man Guilty of Offenses Stemming from Pandemic Robbery Spree

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on April 28, 2025, a federal jury in New Haven found WILLIAM ROSARIO LOPEZ, 39, of New Haven, guilty of offenses related to his commission of several armed robberies of Connecticut gas stations in the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.

    According to the evidence presented during the trial:

    On March 18, 2020, Rosario Lopez entered the Shell Gas Station located at 1302 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon.  Wearing a black mask, he pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee, grabbed him by the collar, directed him to walk to the cash register, and struck him in the back of the head as they were walking to the cash register.  After the employee provided Rosario Lopez with cash from the register, Rosario Lopez ordered the employee to lay on the floor and then fled the store.

    On March 22, 2020, at approximately 10 p.m., Rosario Lopez entered the Fleet Gas Station located at 1611 Meriden Waterbury Turnpike in Southington.  Wearing a surgical-type mask, he pointed a silver pistol at the store employee and demanded money.  The employee provided Rosario Lopez with a small amount of cash and, after explaining that all the money was already in the safe and that he did not know the combination, Rosario Lopez kicked the employee, ordered him to lay on the floor, and then fled the store.

    On March 22, 2020, approximately one hour after the Southington robbery, Rosario Lopez entered the Shell Gas Station located at 883 Hamilton Avenue in Waterbury.  Wearing a surgical-type mask, he pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee and demanded money.  After the employee opened the cash register and provided cash to Rosario Lopez, Rosario Lopez ordered the employee to lay on the floor and then fled the store.

    On March 23, 2020, less than two hours after the Waterbury robbery, Rosario Lopez entered the Shell Gas Station located at 696 Main Street in Ansonia.  Wearing a surgical-type mask, he pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee, demanded money and threatened to shoot the employee.  After the employee was unable to open the cash register quickly, Rosario Lopez fired one round in the direction of employee and then fled.  The employee was not struck by the projectile.

    On March 26, 2020, Rosario Lopez entered the Citgo Gas Station located at 788 West Main Street in New Britain.  Wearing a surgical-type mask, he waited for another customer to leave the store, approached the counter, pointed a small silver pistol at the store employee and demanded money.  The employee opened the cash register and Rosario Lopez took cash from the register drawer.  Rosario then fled the store.

    Solimar Rodriguez Gonzalez acted as a “lookout” in at least two of the robberies, and she is depicted on store video surveillance just prior to the robberies that occurred in Vernon and Waterbury.

    Rosario Lopez and Gonzalez were arrested on April 9, 2020.  In association with their arrests, investigators searched a vehicle they used during the robberies and recovered a silver .25 caliber semiautomatic pistol and 14 rounds of ammunition.

    Rosario Lopez’s criminal history includes convictions in New York for attempted murder and criminal possession of a weapon, and convictions in Puerto Rico for importation and unlawful possession of a firearm, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault with a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, threatening a witness, and aggravated robbery.

    On April 28, 2025, the jury found Rosario Lopez guilty of four counts of obstruction of interstate commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery), one count of attempted obstruction of interstate commerce by robbery, four counts of brandishing a firearm during a robbery, and one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.  At sentencing, he faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 28 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.

    Rosario Lopez has been detained since his arrest.  A sentencing date is not scheduled.

    On January 21, 2025, Gonzalez pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the obstruction of interstate commerce by robbery.  She awaits sentencing.

    This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Connecticut State Police, and the Vernon, Southington, Waterbury, Ansonia, New Britain, New Haven, and Guilford Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth L. Gresham, Robert S. Ruff, and Daniel P. Gordon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province releases annual climate report

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is reaffirming its commitment to climate action and affordability as it releases its annual Climate Change Accountability Report.

    The report is based on 2022 emissions data and highlights actions completed between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, as well as actions underway or planned for the year ahead. It provides the most up-to-date assessment of British Columbia’s efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions and build a low-carbon economy.

    The 2024 Climate Change Accountability Report concludes that B.C. is making progress in reducing emissions. Since 2007, the base year for B.C.’s climate goals, emissions have remained relatively stable and are projected to decline by 20% by 2030. Emissions per person are down by more than 21% and emissions per unit of GDP are down by more than 30%. This means fewer emissions are being produced for every person and for every dollar of economic growth.

    While B.C. is making progress, the reductions are not enough to meet B.C.’s 2030 target. The Province will continue to strengthen its climate action with measures that deliver clean economic growth and create affordable options for people.

    “British Columbia has been a leader in demonstrating solutions that have been replicated elsewhere from methane regulations to low-carbon fuel standards,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “While this progress has been substantial, it has not been enough to be on track to meet the targets. I want British Columbians to know that we will continue to strengthen our efforts to reduce emissions, while ensuring people have more affordable and sustainable options available to them.”

    Programs under CleanBC, the government’s climate plan, have helped tens of thousands of households access clean-energy retrofits, supported industrial decarbonization and accelerated the adoption of electric vehicles. In 2023, zero-emission vehicles made up nearly one in four new vehicle sales for an increase of 25% from 2022. Heat pump installations increased by 67% over the previous year, supported by government rebates and expanded access.

    To support the shift to a low-carbon future and ensure affordable, reliable energy for the growing population, government is making major investments in expanding access to made-in-B.C. renewable power sources. Ten new wind and solar projects are being accelerated to deliver clean power as soon as possible. The North Coast Transmission Line expansion between Prince George and Terrace will deliver electricity to major industry, such as liquefied natural gas, mining and critical minerals projects, port operations and more, helping power economic growth, while contributing to British Columbia’s energy security.

    BC Hydro is investing $36 billion through its 10-year capital plan to expand and strengthen community and regional electrical infrastructure to ensure clean power can be delivered to new homes, businesses and industries when and where they need it. These investments create economic opportunities throughout the province, including an average of 10,000 jobs annually for skilled workers.

    A review of CleanBC will be announced soon to assess progress and make recommendations to strengthen B.C.’s climate policies, improve affordability and support a strong economy.

    Learn More:

    To read the 2024 Climate Change Accountability Report, visit: 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content?id=37896D59E08D42EE9C5A06C5543A4824 

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MNRE Minister Pralhad Joshi launches Green Hydrogen Certification scheme

    Source: Government of India

    MNRE Minister Pralhad Joshi launches Green Hydrogen Certification scheme

    MNRE organizes Workshop on opportunities for MSMEs in Green Hydrogen Supply Chain

    Posted On: 29 APR 2025 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) organized on 29th April 2025 one-day National Workshop on opportunities for “Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Green Hydrogen Supply Chain”, at  New Delhi. The workshop was  aimed to explore opportunities and discuss key role of MSMEs in development of green hydrogen ecosystem in India. Over 300 delegates drew participation from different stakeholder groups, including MSMEs, policymakers, technology providers, industry associations, and international partners.

    Delivering the inaugural address, Shri Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, Hon’ble Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering innovation-led growth and emphasized that MSMEs will serve as the backbone of India’s energy transition through their innovative capabilities and localized solutions. He highlighted the critical role MSMEs will play in realizing the Mission’s objectives of building a self-reliant green hydrogen ecosystem by 2030.

    Hon’ble Union Minister also launched the Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI). He mentioned that the scheme is a foundational step towards creating a robust framework for certifying green hydrogen production and ensuring transparency, traceability, and market credibility.

    Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, MNRE highlighted some key achievements in the implementation of National Green Hydrogen Mission. He stressed upon the importance of building capacities, facilitating finance, and strengthening technology linkages to empower MSMEs to meaningfully participate in this new industrial landscape. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to building institutional and infrastructural support for green hydrogen, with MSMEs playing a critical role.

    The workshop included four focused technical sessions as follows:

    1. Technology Collaboration for MSMEs

    Panelists deliberated on R&D collaboration models, indigenization of components such as bipolar plates and electrolysers, and the role of knowledge institutions.

    1. Business Opportunities in the Green Hydrogen Supply Chain

    Discussions centered on the integration of MSMEs into large-scale projects. Experts from international agencies and corporate leaders outlined business models and market opportunities, advocating for systematic MSME engagement strategies.

    1. Decentralized Hydrogen Production through Biomass

    Expert speakers presented use cases on thermochemical and biochemical conversion of biomass to hydrogen, exploring their application in rural industries. The session highlighted the potential of decentralized models to meet local demand while promoting circular economy principles.

    1. Catalyzing Investments in the Green Hydrogen Ecosystem

    Financial institutions, including the World Bank, IREDA, KfW, and IIFCL, discussed de-risking strategies, blended finance mechanisms, and the need to design green credit lines accessible to MSMEs.

    The workshop marked an important step towards mainstreaming MSMEs in India’s clean energy transition and showed MNRE’s commitment towards building an inclusive, technology-driven, and decentralized green hydrogen economy. The workshop saw active participation from MSMEs, who showed strong interest in entering the green hydrogen sector, particularly in areas such as component manufacturing, operations and maintenance services, and rural hydrogen generation. Participants emphasized the need for standardized protocols, shared platforms for joint innovation, and the formation of Green Hydrogen Clusters to help MSMEs combine capacities and benefit from economies of scale. The discussions also highlighted the importance of clear demand signals and long-term policy stability to encourage private investment. Experts noted India’s strong potential to emerge as a manufacturing hub for green hydrogen technologies, especially electrolysers and fuel cells.

    The Government of India is implementing the National Green Hydrogen Mission, with an objective to make India a global hub of production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives.

    The Mission will result in the following likely outcomes by 2030:

    1. Development of Green Hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum with an associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country
    2. Over Rs. Eight lakh crore in total investments
    3. Creation of over Six lakh jobs
    4. Cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports over Rs. One lakh crore
    5. Abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions

    ******

    TPJ/NJ

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal reviews the power sector scenario for Rajasthan at Jaipur on 29.04.2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 29 APR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal, reviewed the power sector scenario for Rajasthan at Jaipur today. Hon’be Chief Minister of Rajasthan was present in the meeting. The meeting was also attended by senior officials of the State, Ministry of Power, Govt. of India (GoI), and Power Sector CPSEs.

    The meeting started with a presentation on the brief overview of the Power Sector scenario in the State. In the course of presentation, the achievements of the State Energy Department were highlighted. Also, major challenges and possible solutions were discussed.

    In his address, Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs mentioned that his visit to the State will be important in understanding and in resolution of the issues in the Power sector in the State. He appreciated the efforts of State Energy department in infrastructure planning in the area of power generation, transmission and distribution.

    Hon’ble Minister advised the State to make all out efforts for expeditious implementation of the sanctioned works under RDSS as well as to implement reforms prescribed under the scheme. He advised State to take up smart metering works in a phased manner, starting with Government establishments and subsequently for the commercial & industrial consumers. Based on experience and demonstration of benefits, the smart meters may be rolled out to other category of consumers. He emphasized on the need for focussed effort required for achieving viability of DISCOMs.

    Hon’ble Minister mentioned for providing necessary support for the RE evacuation plan of State through Inter State and Instra State Transmission System. Union Minister assured for continued support and cooperation of the GoI in the overall development of the State power sector.

    Hon’ble Chief Minister, Rajasthan welcomed Hon’ble Union Minister for his visit to the State for review of issues related to power sector. He assured of taking necessary measures for expeditious implementation of the Infrastructure works.

    ****

    SK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Principal Scientific Adviser Unveils Landmark Report on ‘Evaluation of Innovation Excellence Indicators of Public Funded R&D Organizations’ (Round 2)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 29 APR 2025 7:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India today launched the (Round 2) study report on “Evaluation of Innovation Excellence Indicators of Public Funded R&D Organizations”, aimed at benchmarking and enhancing innovation performance across India’s publicly funded research ecosystem. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Center for Technology, Innovation, and Economic Research (CTIER) served as knowledge partners for this study, contributing their expertise to strengthen the assessment framework.

    The report was unveiled by Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, during the 15th CII Global Innovation and IP Summit 2025 held in New Delhi today. The launch event was also joined by Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary, Office of PSA, Shri B.N. Satpathy, PSA Fellow; Dr. Rakesh Kaur, Adviser/Scientist ’G’; Ms. Remya Haridassan, Scientist ‘D’ and Hafsa Ahmad, Scientist ‘D’ from Office of PSA and senior industry leaders, researchers, and representatives from academia and industry were also present during the launch.

    The study presents a pioneering framework to evaluate innovation capacity and impact, developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders and supported by rigorous data analysis.

    Speaking at the launch, Prof. Sood emphasised the importance of robust evaluation mechanisms in aligning national R&D efforts with socio-economic priorities. “This report serves as a strategic tool for institutional improvement and policy formulation. It reflects our collective aspiration to make Indian science and research globally competitive and socially impactful,” he said. He further said that the report is more than a diagnostic tool and is a roadmap for strengthening India’s innovation capabilities through data-driven insights and strategic benchmarking.

    In her special address, Dr. Maini emphasised on the crucial role played by the publicly funded R&D institutions in translating national priorities into transformative solutions. She stated that these innovation excellence indicators offer a valuable metric for evaluating and benchmarking R&D institutes, ultimately fostering a stronger and more empowered innovation ecosystem.

    In his welcome remarks, Dr. Udayant Malhoutra, Chairman, CII National Committee on Design Innovation and CEO & Managing Director, Dynamatic Technologies Limited stated that India’s R&D ecosystem is increasingly driven by design-led innovation, fostering global competitiveness through collaboration and creativity.

    Mr Masood Mallick, Chairman, CII National Committee on Waste to Worth Technologies and Managing Director & Group CEO of Re Sustainability Limited stated that R&D in waste-to-worth technologies is unlocking sustainable solutions and circular economy models for a cleaner future.

    In his vote of thanks, Mr Shaheen Majeed, Vice-Chairman, CII National Committee on Intellectual Property and Global CEO & Managing Director, Sami-Sabinsa Group mentioned that a strong IP framework is vital to India’s R&D growth, empowering innovation across science and industry.

    This exercise reflects the Government of India’s continued commitment to fostering excellence, accountability, and innovation within publicly funded research and development institutions. The study saw participation from over 240 R&D organisations across 21 Ministries.

    The evaluation framework focused on six key dimensions—research output and quality, technology transfer and commercialization, collaborations and industry engagement, intellectual property generation, societal and policy impact, and human resource development and capacity building. These indicators were designed to provide a holistic view of innovation performance across institutions.

    Following the report launch, the Summit featured a session that explored the crucial role of fostering R&D partnerships in creating effective co-innovation ecosystems for technological progress. A panel of experts, including Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant (Director, IIT Roorkee), Dr. Vibha Malhotra Sawhney (Scientist H, CSIR Headquarters), Dr. Nagahanumaiah (Director, Central Manufacturing Technology Institute), Mr. P S Jayan (Corporate Technology Officer, Carborundum Universal), and Dr. Umish Srivastva (Executive Director, Technology Promotion & Forecasting, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd), discussed strategies and models for successful collaboration among research organisations, academia, government, and industry. The panel was moderated by Dr. Hafsa Ahmad (Scientist D, Office of PSA).

    The report can be accessed on:

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Findings of the Forward-Looking Survey on Private Sector CAPEX Investment Intentions

    Source: Government of India

    Findings of the Forward-Looking Survey on Private Sector CAPEX Investment Intentions
    (Survey period: November 2024 to January 2025)

    Private Corporate Sector CAPEX: Three-Year Trends and Future Outlook:

    Posted On: 29 APR 2025 4:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Key findings:

    • The average Gross Fixed Assets per enterprise in the private corporate sector increased from ₹3,151.9 crore in 2021–22 to ₹3,279.4 crore in 2022–23 (4% growth), and further to ₹4,183.3 crore in 2023–24, reflecting a significant 27.5% growth.
    • The estimated CAPEX per enterprise for the years 2021–22, 2022–23, and 2023–24 was ₹109.2 crore, ₹148.8 crore and ₹107.6 crore respectively.
    • The estimated provisional capital expenditure per enterprise for purchasing new assets in 2024–25 is ₹172.2 crore.
    • Overall increase of 66.3% in aggregate CAPEX (unweighted) over the four-year period from 2021-22 to 2024-25.
    • The strategy of 40.3% of enterprises is to undertake CAPEX on core assets during 2024–25, followed by 28.4% to invest in value addition to existing assets

    Survey Background:

    In 2022–23, the Parliamentary Standing Committee recommended that the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) develop a comprehensive methodology to capture capital expenditure (CAPEX) data from the private sector. Survey instruments designed to capture data on past investments, projected CAPEX for the next two years, and the breakdown of investments by asset type were developed in alignment with the specifications of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance.

    Responding to this recommendation, the National Statistical Office (NSO) conducted the inaugural Forward-Looking Survey on Private Sector CAPEX Investment Intentions between November 2024 and January 2025. This marked the first initiative of MoSPI to engage the corporate sector through a self-administered, web-based survey platform, supported by chatbot assistance, to collect structured CAPEX data. MoSPI has released the findings of the survey in the form of a comprehensive booklet. A brief overview of key aspects, such as survey coverage, sampling methodology, and data collection process, is included in the Endnote.

    The primary objective of the CAPEX survey is to estimate the CAPEX trends of private corporate sector enterprises from the past three financial years (2021-22, 2022-23 & 2023-24) along with anticipated capital expenditure for the current year (2024-25) and upcoming financial years (2025-26).

    Key advantages of the Survey:

    Capital expenditure (CAPEX) plays a crucial role in contributing to national investment and enhancing the stock of physical assets within the economy. It leads to the creation of long-term assets, which not only generate revenue for many years but also improve the overall operational efficiency of economic activities. CAPEX is fundamental to expanding production capacity, thereby serving as a catalyst for accelerated economic growth. This growth, in turn, supports job creation and enhances labour productivity.

    Comprehensive data on CAPEX will be a valuable asset for a wide range of stakeholders, including government departments, private enterprises, trade associations, researchers, and other relevant entities. It will enable evidence-based policy formulation through the analysis of trends in future investments. Furthermore, a clear understanding of CAPEX patterns and scale can assist enterprises in making strategic, data-driven investment decisions, guided by the insights derived from survey findings.

    Important Caveat:

    In this inaugural edition of the survey, industry participation varied, with an overall response rate of 58.3% (58.6% in the census sector and 57.2% in the sample sector). Respondents appeared cautious in disclosing CAPEX plans, often pending management approvals. Certain entities, such as Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) involved in infrastructure projects, were excluded from the survey frame as they report no turnover despite high CAPEX. Meanwhile, some included SPVs had no future investment plans due to project completion. As this is the first round of the survey, the findings may be seen as indicative and subject to refinement in future iterations. It is also important to note that the results reflect responses from larger enterprises above specified turnover thresholds and may not represent the entire private corporate sector. Users are advised to interpret the results keeping these limitations in mind.

    Insights and Way Forward for Future Survey Conduct

    The Forward-Looking Survey on Private Sector Capex Investment Intentions, the first of its kind by the NSO, was conducted under the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008. Notices were issued to selected enterprises, explaining the survey’s objectives and assuring confidentiality. However, some enterprises questioned the legitimacy of notices containing portal credentials, leading to multiple cyber risk concerns. Explaining portal usage and submission procedures over the phone was challenging. Data analysis revealed issues such as incorrect unit entries (e.g., Rupees instead of Rupees thousands) and non-responses to follow-up queries. Enterprises also faced difficulties in selecting correct NIC codes and estimating future investments when official data was unavailable.

    CAPEX tends to rise when enterprises pursue growth strategies rather than maintain current operations. Despite challenges like weak demand, geopolitical tensions, and high borrowing costs, about 30% of firms plan to invest in upgradation in 2024–25, supporting the sharp increase in CAPEX for that year. The slightly lower intended CAPEX for 2025–26, though still above 2023–24 levels, reflects cautious planning after a strong 2024–25. Overall, the trend indicates growing corporate confidence and a judicious approach to investment amid improving economic certainty.

    While the response rate and results were generally promising, this initial round of the survey can be considered as an experimental phase, providing valuable insights to refine the questionnaire, methodology, estimation processes, and overall implementation. The lessons learned will guide improvements for future surveys, with necessary adjustments to various aspects of the survey process. Moving forward, responding enterprises will be engaged more proactively before the survey, with concerns about the authenticity of the online survey being addressed, assistance provided in understanding the questionnaire, confidentiality of individual responses ensured, and field personnel deployed to support enterprises in overcoming technical and conceptual challenges in completing future-oriented surveys. Additionally, the survey will incorporate qualitative inputs, such as reasons for year-on-year changes in investment, to gain deeper insights into enterprise-level CAPEX intentions and trends. The next round of the CAPEX survey is expected to be conducted during October to December 2025.

    Key highlights from the CAPEX results:

    Aggregated (Unweighted, i.e. without applying any multiplier) CAPEX during (2021-22 to 2025-26)

    A total of 2,172 enterprises submitted complete information for all five years of the reference period, forming a fixed panel. The aggregated (unweighted) CAPEX data from this panel of enterprises serves as a reliable basis for analyzing capital expenditure trends over the five-year period, as presented below. The results show an overall increase of 66.3% in aggregate CAPEX (unweighted) over the four-year period from 2021-22 to 2024-25.:

                    (in ₹ Crore)

    Actual CAPEX in 2021-22

    Actual CAPEX 2022-23

    Actual CAPEX 2023-24

    Intended CAPEX in 2024-25

    Intended CAPEX in 2025-26

    394,681.5

    572,199.7

    422,183.3

    656,492.7

    488,865.5

    Out of the 3,064 responding enterprises, 2,172 reported their Capex intentions for 2025–26. The data indicates a cautious approach by respondents in declaring their capital expenditure plans. Therefore, the Capex data for 2025–26 should be interpreted with caution, considering the conservative approach and apprehension shown by the responding enterprises in reporting these figures. However, the results show an overall increase of 23.9% in aggregate CAPEX (unweighted) during 2021-22 to 2025-26 for this fixed panel of 2,172 enterprises.

    Estimated Key Indicators for past years (2021-22 to 2023-24) by Industry of Activity as per National Industry of Classification (Activity Categories)

    The average Gross Fixed Asset (GFA) per enterprise in the private corporate sector was estimated at ₹3,151.9 crore in 2021–22. It increased by 4.0% to ₹3,279.4 crores in 2022–23, and further grew by 27.5% to reach ₹4,183.3 crore in 2023–24.

    The highest GFA per enterprise, exceeding ₹14,000 crore, was observed in the industry category ‘Electricity, Gas, Steam, and Air Conditioning Supply’, followed by ‘Manufacturing” enterprises (₹7,000 crore to ₹10,000 crore). Enterprises principally engaged in manufacturing activities accounted for more than 65% of the total Gross fixed asset[1] in private corporate sector over the past three years from 2021-22 to 2023-24 followed by enterprises engaged in ‘Electricity, Gas, Steam, and Air Conditioning Supply’ (8%-10%).

    In 2021–22, the estimated actual CAPEX per enterprise was ₹109.3 crore, compared to the proposed value of ₹102.7 crore, resulting in a realisation ratio of 106.41 %. A similar trend was observed in 2022–23, where the estimated value of actual CAPEX per enterprise reached ₹148.8 crore against a proposed value of ₹133.3 crore, also yielding a realisation ratio exceeding 100%. For 2023–24, the realisation ratio stands at 99.7%, with the estimated actual CAPEX per enterprise at ₹107.6 and the proposed CAPEX at ₹107.9.

    The estimated provisional capital expenditure per enterprise for acquiring new assets in 2024–25 stands at ₹172.2 crore. Among the sectors, manufacturing enterprises account for the largest share at 43.8%, followed by those in ‘Information and Communication Activities’ (15.6%) and ‘Transportation and Storage Activities’ (14.0%).

    Estimated Key Indicators for 2023-24 by Asset Groups

    The estimated provisional capital expenditure per enterprise for acquiring new assets in 2024–25 stands at ₹172.2 crore. Out of the total capital expenditure provisionally incurred in the year 2024-25, nearly 53.1% were utilized for purchasing machinery & equipment. The amount allocated for ‘capital work in progress’ (22.0%) and purchasing ‘dwellings, other buildings and structures’ (9.7%) had the next highest share of allocation.

    Strategy of CAPEX in 2024-25

    According to survey estimates, nearly 40.3% of enterprises plan to undertake CAPEX on core assets during 2024–25. Additionally, 28.4% intend to invest in value addition to existing assets, while around 11.5% focus on opportunistic assets, and 2.7% on debt strategies. The strategy of investing in distressed assets and non-performing loans was adopted by less than one-half of a percent of enterprises. Meanwhile, about 16.9% allocated their CAPEX towards other diverse investment strategies.

    Objectives of CAPEX in 2024-25

    The survey estimates indicate that nearly 49.6% of private corporate sector enterprises undertook CAPEX in 2024–25 primarily for income generation. An additional 30.1% directed their investments toward upgradation, while around 2.8% focused on diversification. Remaining 17.5% of enterprises reported using their CAPEX for other reasons.

    The results of CAPEX survey are provided in the booklet which is available in the website of the Ministry (https://www.mospi.gov.in). To protect the confidentiality of CAPEX investment plans of individual enterprises, the Steering Committee of NSS Surveys recommended that unit-level data of CAPEX survey would not be disseminated.

    Endnote: A brief about the coverage, sampling scheme, sample size and data collection mechanism in the Forward-Looking Survey on Private Sector CAPEX Investment Intentions:

    A. Coverage:

    The survey covered large private corporate sector enterprises that play a significant role in their respective sectors. The sampling frame was madeusing data from active enterprises registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), filtered based on annual turnover thresholds achieved in at least one of the last three financial years. The eligibility criteria were as follows:

    • Manufacturing enterprises with an annual turnover of ₹400 crore or more
    • Trade enterprises with an annual turnover of ₹300 crore or more
    • Other enterprises with an annual turnover of ₹100 crore or more

    Based on these criteria, the final survey frame consisted of 16,025 enterprises.

    B. Sampling Scheme:

    Eligible enterprises were initially categorized into seventeen (17) strata based on their Principal Business Activity as reported in the MGT-7 Form of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). In strata with 100 or fewer enterprises, all units were included in the Census Sector for complete enumeration.

    For strata with more than 100 enterprises, the selection process involved identifying Census Sector Enterprises and Sample Sector Enterprises. To determine the Census Sector, enterprises were ranked in descending order based on (i) the highest fixed asset value in the past three years and (ii) the fixed asset value of latest reported year. The top enterprises accounting for 90% of asset value (or 80% for Construction and Trade) from either list were classified as Census Sector Enterprises. The remaining units formed the Sample Sector, from which 10% were randomly selected using Simple Random Sampling without Replacement (SRSWOR), with allocation proportional to each stratum’s size and variation.

    C. Sample Size:

    The sample size for the survey was of 5,380 enterprises: 4,145 enterprises in the Census Sector and 1,235 enterprises in sample sector.

    D. Data Collection Mechanism:

    The survey was conducted under the provisions of the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008, with prior notices sent to all selected enterprises outlining the survey’s objective and intended use of the data. Confidentiality of individual responses was strictly maintained, and no unit-level data would be disseminated. A secure, dedicated web portal was developed to enable selected enterprises to complete and submit the survey questionnaire online. The portal included background information on the survey, reasons for a unit’s selection, and chatbot support to assist respondents in understanding key concepts and definitions.

    *****

    Samrat/Allen

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Invest in African Energy 2026 Forum Confirmed for May 11–12 in Paris

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, April 29, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Energy Capital & Power (ECP) (www.EnergyCapitalPower.com) is pleased to announce that the fourth edition of the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum will return to Paris on May 11–12, 2026, with a sharpened focus on frontier exploration, early-stage project development and upstream investment opportunities. Building on three highly successful editions, IAE continues to serve as the premier platform for global explorers, investors and African energy leaders to connect, collaborate and catalyze the next wave of discoveries. 

    Held in Europe’s leading financial and diplomatic center, IAE 2026 will convene energy ministers, national oil companies, utilities, regulators and global investors for two days of strategic dialogue and high-level engagement. This edition will introduce an enhanced focus on the exploration community and its broader ecosystem – from geologists and service companies, to governments and capital providers. With over 150 oil and gas blocks available for bidding across more than 10 African markets in 2025, the continent is experiencing an exploration resurgence, presenting opportunities in both mature and frontier regions. IAE will serve as the premier platform for accessing these opportunities, exploring the latest data rooms, showcasing seismic and subsurface innovation and fostering early-stage collaboration among IOCs and NOCs.  

    Several high-impact licensing rounds are already lined up for 2026, signaling new momentum across Africa’s exploration landscape. Equatorial Guinea has relaunched its open-door licensing process, paving the way for a major licensing round by late 2025 or early 2026. Angola is planning to repeat its multi-year licensing round for oil and gas acreage starting in 2026, while Namibia is lining up new offshore licensing opportunities from 2025 that are expected to continue into the following year. Uganda also plans to issue new exploration licenses in the 2025/2026 fiscal year. In addition, several licensing rounds launched in 2025 will carry over into 2026, offering continued momentum and opportunity for exploration-focused stakeholders. 

    More than just a development-focused event, IAE 2026 is setting the stage for the next era of African oil and gas exploration. With operators and developers expected to invest $43 billion in Africa’s oil and gas sector in 2025 — and capital expenditure projected to reach a decade-high of $54 billion by 2030 — Africa’s role in the global energy landscape is only set to grow. IAE responds directly to this momentum, serving as a launchpad for cross-border investment, strategic partnerships and early-stage project financing. The forum is purpose-built to engage geologists, upstream strategists, service providers and capital partners looking to unlock the continent’s vast untapped hydrocarbon potential. 

    “IAE has become the definitive meeting point for Africa’s energy stakeholders and global capital markets. We’re especially focused on amplifying exploration in 2026 – shining a spotlight on frontier plays, licensing opportunities and early-stage assets ready for partnerships. With preparations underway, we are committed to sustaining this platform’s growth and delivering another high-impact edition in 2026,” said Sandra Jeque, Events & Project Director at ECP. 

    In previous editions, the forum has welcomed official delegations from over 20 African countries, hosted exclusive ministerial panels and investor roundtables, and featured hundreds of B2B meetings that have laid the foundation for tangible, cross-border cooperation. By spotlighting Africa’s exploration resurgence — from untapped basins and high-impact drilling campaigns to recent regulatory shifts — the forum will offer clear value to IOCs evaluating global priorities, while outlining what the exploration landscape looks like and what investors need to know to engage effectively. 

    More information on the 2026 program, speaker lineup and sponsorship opportunities will be announced in the coming months. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) to Spotlight African Energy Opportunities, U.S.-Africa Collaboration

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    HOUSTON, United States of America, April 29, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) returns to Houston with a bold agenda focused on catalyzing American investment and innovation across Africa’s most dynamic energy markets. Designed as a high-impact platform for government and private sector dialogue, USAEF brings together African energy stakeholders and leading U.S. companies to accelerate project development, capital deployment and technology transfer across the continent.

    The forum is set to open with a High-Level U.S.-Africa Energy Dialogue, bringing together senior policymakers, energy ministers and private sector leaders to set the tone for deeper cooperation and alignment on mutual priorities. This flagship session will be followed by a forward-looking panel discussion on Private Equity Driving a New Wave of African Business, exploring how U.S.-based investment firms are shaping Africa’s next chapter of energy growth. The agenda will also spotlight frontier opportunities; overlooked plays across the Middle East, North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa; and bold strategies to grow the U.S. footprint in Africa’s critical minerals and energy assets.

    Libya, the Republic of Congo, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will take center stage during a series of Country-Focused Sessions highlighting strategic priorities, reform agendas and concrete investment opportunities. African governments and national oil companies will present their latest projects and policy frameworks, while American firms such as Chevron, ExxonMobil, SLB and ConocoPhillips will explore avenues to deepen partnerships in established markets like Nigeria and Libya, and tap into emerging opportunities in the Republic of Congo and the DRC.

    With major reforms and investment drives underway, these markets are fast becoming focal points for American engagement. Libya, North Africa’s powerhouse, has launched a 22-block licensing round as it works to revitalize its upstream sector and reach a production target of 1.6 million barrels per day (bpd), alongside multi-billion-dollar gas monetization and export projects. 

    The Republic of Congo is aiming to scale production to 500,000 bpd, while advancing gas monetization under a new Gas Master Plan that invites international collaboration. In the DRC, reforms to the hydrocarbons code and a potential minerals-for-security agreement with the U.S. signal new entry points for American firms. Nigeria continues to stand out as a top-tier investment destination, targeting $10 billion in deepwater gas projects through new tax incentives and a planned auction of undeveloped blocks to boost exploration and production.

    With participation from key industry players and high-level delegations, USAEF affirms a shared commitment by African stakeholders to attract American capital and technology to bolster their respective energy markets. U.S. companies, in turn, are ready to expand their footprint, forge new alliances and unlock the full potential of Africa’s energy future.

    For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com. Join us in Houston this August to connect with the leaders shaping Africa’s energy landscape and experience the momentum that drives ECP’s events worldwide.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Record Attendance at 30th Annual NREL Industry Growth Forum as Innovation Soars

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    [embedded content]

    Text version

    History was made this year at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Industry Growth Forum (IGF), and not only because it celebrated the 30th anniversary of the event. The IGF also reached a record high number for attendance: more than 1,000 people

    “Thank you all for being here for this milestone anniversary,” NREL Director Martin Keller said during his welcoming remarks. “For 30 years, this forum has brought together the energy ecosystem. You help NREL understand industry challenges, refine our research priorities to address real-world needs, and accelerate market adoption of new technologies. NREL benefits from your market insights and challenges, and you benefit from our technical expertise and research capabilities. This two-way exchange is why the IGF has thrived for 30 years.”

    Held March 26–28, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Denver, Colorado, the event featured several new opportunities for investors, startups, and other industry professionals. The theme of the event was unlocking value, inspiring the creation of original programming aimed at leveraging the power of the IGF.

    More than 1,000 people attended the 2025 NREL Industry Growth Forum. Photo by Kira Vos

    Attendees focused on bringing innovative energy solutions to the market, including battery construction, novel ways to power buildings, and maximizing energy efficiency to lower costs. The event included new programs such as a reverse pitch session, a spotlight of companies that are part of NREL’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (IEC) portfolio, Growth Stage dialogues, resource roundtables, and more.

    “What a difference 30 years makes,” IEC Director Trish Cozart said during her opening remarks. “Since the first NREL Industry Growth Forum, we’ve increased the size of the event by tenfold, and while our computers are eight orders of magnitude more powerful than they were 30 years ago, one thing that has not changed is that the key to unlocking value in this business is people. No matter how much compute power we build, I believe 30 years from now, we will still be sitting across the table talking to each other.”

    Networking has always been at the core of IGF, and this year was no different with nearly 3,000 meetings held. The marquee event for many attendees was the one-on-one meetings between startups and investors. During this 3.5-hour session, each startup and investor had 10 minutes to talk during each prescheduled meeting before moving on to the next.

    The IGF also featured a competition where 52 different presenters pitched in front of panels of investor judges and then received questions and scores from the judges. The pitch competition awarded top ventures across several stages: Growth, Commercialization, Pre-Commercialization, and Early. Other categories awarded included Best International Venture (for the first time), People’s Choice, and Best Overall Venture.

    First-Time Attending Startup Seeks Connections

    One of those participating in the Early-Stage pitch competition was first-time IGF attendee Michael Solomentsev, co-founder and CEO of Palanquin Power. Solomentsev is also in NREL’s Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program, West Gate. Palanquin helps make data centers more efficient using advanced power electronics, and Solomentsev often describes the technology by pointing to a laptop charger.

    Michael Solomentsev, co-founder and CEO of Palanquin Power, delivers his pitch during his session at the IGF. Solomentsev is also in NREL’s Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program, West Gate. Photo from Kira Vos

    “With that type of device, you don’t really care if it’s 80% or 90% efficient,” Solomentsev said. “But a data center has the same need for power conversion, and each percentage point means much more power on that scale, so they have a huge premium for efficiency. Our approach enables efficiencies that no one else can achieve.”

    West Gate provides participants technical support via a two-year program at NREL, working with experts to help further develop technology. Solomentsev has about 18 months left in the program, and leading up to the IGF, he was very excited about the one-on-one meetings.

    “Meeting that many investors and who are in the particular niche I inhabit, it’s worth its weight in gold,” Solomentsev said.

    Long-Time Investor Advises Multiple Entrepreneurs

    Tim Woodward, managing director of Prelude Ventures, began coming to the IGF just after its creation in the 1990s. His firm typically funds companies before first revenue with a Seed or Series A check and continues the relationship through commercialization to scaling.

    “There really isn’t another event that happens at this scale that brings this many investors and companies together,” he said. “There isn’t an equivalent.”

    Over the years, Woodward has acted multiple times as a member of the selection committee that chooses the startups to present at the event).

    “I’ve been coming to this for almost all 30 years,” Woodward said. “From a gathering of 50 to 100 investors and startups to more than 1,000 people today, it’s really become the place to be for industry investors and startups.”

    Accelerator Looks for Technologies To Take Home

    Suzanna Caldwell, tech deployment track manager for Launch Alaska, came to the IGF seeking to expand her program’s reach. Launch Alaska, based in Anchorage, is an eight-month accelerator program for companies to develop technologies in the Alaska environment.

    “It’s always great when you find a technology and the innovators are interested in Alaska,” Caldwell said. “It’s amazing to make those connections in a place like this far from home. It’s inspiring. At the end of it, I walk away saying: ‘Wow, this is such a cool space.’”

    Several companies in the Launch Alaska portfolio came to this year’s IGF, which Caldwell thinks is an invaluable experience for both her accelerator and the innovators.

    “I don’t know of other conferences that are like this,” she said, “that bring together so much diversity in the marketplace. I’m really impressed by NREL’s ability to bring this together.”

    Bob O’Connor, a partner in the Wilson Sonsini law firm, gave the keynote speech at the closing session. Photo from Kira Vos

    Startup Service Provider Keeps Coming Back Each Year

    Law firm Wilson Sonsini began sponsoring the IGF several years ago. Bob O’Connor, a partner in the law firm, said the relationship dates back to 2003, when one of the first innovative energy technology companies he represented also happened to be a spinoff that was commercializing NREL-created technology.

    “People come to the IGF in order to ascertain what’s next,” O’Connor said. “It is a bit like coming home in many respects. It’s always a great opportunity to see all the key players in the industry catching up and sharing stories, vulnerabilities, and accomplishments. I’ve always thought of NREL as quite literally the most optimistic place on earth. If you aren’t sure we as a community, or as an industry, can meet the challenges ahead of us, come to IGF. The answers are probably here!”

    O’Connor gave a keynote address on Friday, March 28, where he focused on what NREL means to the community.

    “NREL brings us optimism, and optimism requires resilience. Optimism doesn’t come cheap,” O’Connor said. “Yet, resilience is an opportunity, and that is why the community is rallying around NREL. To me, NREL is resilience.”

    Resource Roundtables were among the several new programs offered at the 2025 IGF. Photo from Kira Vos

    New Programs Offer New Opportunities

    Solomentsev took part in several of the new programs at this year’s IGF, including the IEC Spotlight session. This invite-only event brought together investors and industry professionals for special pitches from 10 startups that came from IEC programs such as the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2), the Shell GameChanger Powered by NREL (GCxN), West Gate, and Chevron Studio.

    The spotlight was just one of several new programs. The others included:

    • Industry Reverse Pitches: In addition to the regular pitch competition, the IGF hosted a reverse pitch session during the event. Executives with Wells Fargo, Shell, Fortescue, National Grid, Halliburton Labs, and Chevron gave short presentations about what they are looking for from startups to advance their businesses and when considering what to invest in.
    • Resource Roundtables: Hosted by service providers, these sessions included advice from lawyers, accountants, and technical analysis companies. Advisors chose topics and answered questions from startups based on their areas of expertise.
    • Growth Stage Dialogues: Companies pitching in the Growth Stage met with investors and other stakeholders for 25-minute sessions outside of the pitch competition. The conversations delved into legal issues, insurance questions, and how to bring in partners.
    • International Competition: Earlier in 2025, NREL held, a virtual competition for organizations headquartered outside of the United States, Canada, and Europe. The winner, Ampersand, based out of Kigali, Rwanda, was invited to pitch at the in-person IGF, where the company also earned the award for Best Growth Venture.
    • Developer University: As a customized offering for the IGF, project development and project finance experts from CREO, Spring Lane Capital, and Wilson Sonsini delivered a snapshot of their Developer University curriculum. The morning session provided attendees with a crash course on the practical tools and strategies used for project development and the finance and legal structures that enable first-of-a-kind energy deployments. 
    • NREL Tech Talks: Startups and investors alike benefited from discussions with NREL researchers who shared the state of innovation in 30-minute talks spanning across advanced solar manufacturing, built environment, the grid, critical materials and batteries.
    Attendees at the Industry Growth Forum participated in nearly 3,000 meetings over the course of the event. Photo by Kira Vos

    Face-to-Face Meetings Encourage Innovation

    Nearly 3,000 meetings were held at this year’s IGF, many of them during the must-attend one-on-one sessions. A longtime IGF attendee, Woodward treats the one-on-one sessions like office hours.

    “In a perfect world, you come across a company that’s interesting and that you want to continue to do due diligence on, and that ultimately leads to an investment,” he said.

    Two of the companies Woodward met with early on are from the West Gate portfolio. He asked pointed questions, tracking responses to challenges and opportunities. His advice for innovators remained consistent.

    “Control what you can control, keep your head down, plug away, and build a good team,” he said.

    Solomentsev met with 15 to 20 investors during the IGF, many of them during the one-on-one session.

    Palanquin Power CEO Michael Solomentsev (left) met with 15 to 20 investors, many during the one-on-one meeting session. Photo by Kira Vos

    “It was really high value,” he said. “I loved the one-on-ones; I loved meeting a lot of people. I like learning about what other people are doing, and some of my most pleasant conversations are the ones with zero stakes where you’re just talking to another startup and then maybe there’s an introduction or a lead that comes out of that.”

    The meetings at the IGF saved him months of work, by bringing everyone together as only NREL can.

    “The reputation of the event, of NREL and the IEC, and their ability to attract great people and get them to come to Denver for this is unparalleled,” Solomentsev said.

    The Incubator/Accelerator Open House took place at the same time as the one-on-one meetings. The open house provided an opportunity for incubators and accelerators to set up tables in the expo hall and connect with startups, investors, and other IGF attendees to share information about their organizations and services.

    “That was so great for me,” Caldwell said. “If I wasn’t able to schedule time with folks, I could at least connect with them then, make eye contact, and say hello because everyone is friendly and willing to support you. Even if you meet someone that’s outside of the sphere you’re working in, there’s probably connections to be made.”

    Six startups won awards at the 2025 IGF. Photo from Kira Vos

    Award Winners and Beyond

    Before the closing remarks of the conference, Cozart announced the winners of the pitch competition awards. Solomentsev was among the winners, earning the Best Early Venture award for Palanquin Power.

    “I’m very excited—I’m very happy to have won the award,” Solomentsev said. “It is very nice to get some sort of validation that people think the core business is a big enough opportunity.”

    Learn more about the winners.

    “I hope this forum has brought you promising new connections and opportunities,” Cozart said during the closing remarks. “Startups out there, you see things that other people can’t see. Investors, you are bold because you believe in a future that only innovators can see. I look around this room and I see the future. I can’t wait to see the value that’s unlocked from the last couple of days.”

    To learn more about the IGF, visit www.nrelforum.com.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Old growth forests in eastern Canada show that the climate started changing almost 100 years ago

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Alexandre Pace, PhD Candidate in Geography, Urban and Environmental Studies, Concordia University

    Natural archives — like tree rings in old-growth forests — can provide information on climate change over time. (A. Pace), CC BY

    The effects of climate change are complex, especially on the water cycle. As we seek to better understand human-driven climate changes, long-term baselines for environmental data are essential.

    However, records of past environmental conditions are too short to give us a robust understanding of how these systems have changed over time. One solution is to look at natural archives.

    There are many natural processes that leave behind records of past environmental conditions, including tree rings.

    Trees form a ring of wood every year, and the width of that ring can have a significant relationship with climate. We can then create a model based on the time period for which there is both recorded climate data and tree-ring widths. That model can be applied to the rings that formed before climate records began to reconstruct past conditions.



    Read more:
    Old forests are critically important for slowing climate change and merit immediate protection from logging

    The challenge is to find forests with both strong climate-growth relationships and trees over a century old — substantially older than the length of climate data. This is especially difficult in southeastern Canada, where the vast majority of forests have been clear-cut.

    Two canoes ready for salmon fishing on the Sainte-Anne River in Gaspésie National park.
    (A. Pace), CC BY

    Sensitive old growth forests

    In the Appalachian Mountains of the Gaspé Peninsula, Québec, we studied a rare old-growth cedar grove tucked into the valley between the base of Mont-Albert and the Sainte-Anne River, known for its Atlantic salmon fisheries.

    The average hiker passing this eastern white cedar grove would probably not guess that some of these relatively small diameter cedars are more than 500 years old, an age that is still relatively young for the oldest species in eastern Canada.

    The strong competition for light in this closed-canopy forest causes trees here to grow very slowly. We found they grow especially slow during years where the winter snow remained on the ground late into the spring. This late snow pack effectively shortens the trees’ growing season and leads to a thinner tree ring that same year.

    We went on to sample hundreds of trees in the valley and on the slopes at sites that had never been logged. We repeatedly found a strong relationship with snow pack and a related relationship with spring river flow. With these two closely related connections, we were able to reconstruct 195 years of climate history in the region.

    Modern climate change records

    Rings measured on a cedar tree that was over 330 years old.
    (A. Pace), CC BY

    Our recent study reconstructed spring and early summer river flow from 1822 for the Sainte-Anne River, a major river in Gaspésie National Park, the second-largest provincial park in southern Québec.

    Analysis of this tree ring/snow pack/river relationship — which was previously undocumented in eastern North America — suggests that the region was affected quite early by modern climate change. A significant shift occurred in 1937, after which individual years of extremely high river flows and high snow packs declined. Newspaper reports of floods in the greater region matched the years of high flow in our reconstruction as far back as the year 1872, further validating the results.

    The reconstruction also reveals that the short river flow records for the Gaspésie mountains under-represent the region’s susceptibility to prolonged periods of drought-like conditions. Local river flow records kept since 1968 show that the region experienced an equal amount of decade-long dry springs and wet springs. However, our reconstruction suggests that during the 1822-1968 period, long bouts of dry spring climate were substantially more frequent and prolonged than wet ones.

    Conservation impacts

    The insights from this reconstruction could have implications for wildlife and hydropower. First, low water levels contribute to the decline of threatened Atlantic salmon populations.

    Second, alpine snow pack serves as a refuge for the threatened woodland caribou populations, which used to be spread across Atlantic Canada and northern New England. Today, the caribou are in sharp decline, with less than 40 remaining south of the St. Lawrence River, all within the Gaspé Peninsula.

    A female caribou with a GPS tracking monitor around her neck.
    (A. Pace), CC BY

    The primary threat to these caribou is the extensive clear-cutting of old-growth forest habitat. Younger forests provide less food for caribou and lead to an increased abundance of moose and deer, along with their predators — mainly coyotes and black bears — which also prey on caribou.

    Changing mountain snow-pack conditions add to their peril as snow pack has important effects on the health of caribou and the ability of their calves to avoid predators.

    Given this, a better understanding of the implications of reduced snow pack on caribou urgently requires further study.

    Lastly, Québec’s billion-dollar hydroelectric industry might also benefit from a better understanding of past moisture in the region, with a dam complex located a few hundred kilometres northeast of our study site.

    Documented histories

    Our study improves our understanding of past moisture patterns across the east coast of North America. It fills a large gap in climate research based on tree rings between New York and northern Québec.

    When comparing the past 200 years of these East Coast reconstructions, important climate connections arise. The comparison suggests that the complex Atlantic climate system can synchronize, leading large portions of the coast to collectively lock into periods of very wet or very dry conditions.

    This is important for water resource managers, who often rely on help from other managers in neighbouring basins, which may not be available given this common synchrony.

    The insights from the tree rings of these forests are another reminder of the value of old growth and the many services they provide. As we try to better understand the context of human-induced environmental change, our search continues for old forests with a story to tell.

    Our ongoing research includes analyzing dead cedars preserved for almost 800 years at the bottom of lakes. The resulting tree ring chronology will extend our work with trees in the region so far, helping us further examine the environmental history of our rapidly changing planet.

    Alexandre Pace receives funding from Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologies and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

    Jeannine-Marie St-Jacques receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

    – ref. Old growth forests in eastern Canada show that the climate started changing almost 100 years ago – https://theconversation.com/old-growth-forests-in-eastern-canada-show-that-the-climate-started-changing-almost-100-years-ago-253601

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans Oppose McClellan Measures to Prevent Further Mass Firings at U.S. Health Agencies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) called on her Republican colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce Committee to support measures to prohibit further mass firings at U.S. health agencies after the Trump Administration and Elon Musk’s widespread health personnel layoffs last month.

    During a Committee markup of bills, including H.R. 2483, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025, McClellan offered two amendments to prohibit further reductions in force (RIFs) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

    Both were unanimously opposed by Committee Republicans.

    “This Administration haphazardly purged thousands of personnel from U.S. health agencies responsible for supporting lifesaving cancer research, managing measles outbreaks, ensuring medication safety and efficacy, and combating opioid addiction,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “These cuts will delay critical treatments and place even greater pressure on already strained state and local health agencies, many of which are also facing federal funding reductions. The Trump Administration’s actions force these agencies into an untenable position where they will be unable to carry out their responsibilities and keep communities healthy and safe.”

    Earlier this month, McClellan introduced a bill to prevent the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from implementing additional mass workforce cuts, following reports that the Virginia Department of Health had billions of dollars in federal funding cut by the Trump Administration that resulted in layoffs statewide for community health workers, nurses and epidemiologists.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Alectra Inc. announces the appointment of Jane Armstrong to the position of Chair, Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors at Alectra Inc. announced today that Jane Armstrong has been appointed Chair, Board of Directors, effective April 26, 2025. Ms. Armstrong succeeds Norman (Norm) Loberg who has held the position since the company commenced operations in January 2017. Mr. Loberg will continue to serve as a Director on the Alectra Inc. Board.

    Jane Armstrong was called to the Ontario Bar in 1982 and practiced law, primarily in the areas of corporate and commercial real estate and estates and trusts, until her retirement from the practice of law in 2018. Jane was appointed to the Board of Directors of Guelph Hydro Electric Systems Inc. in 2006 and served as Chair of the Guelph Hydro Board from 2015 until the merger of Guelph Hydro and Alectra Utilities Corporation on January 1, 2019.

    Jane has served on the Boards of several community organizations including the Guelph Downtown Board of Management, the Guelph Arts Council and the Canadian Red Cross Society, Guelph-Wellington Branch. In addition, Jane served as President of the Rotary Club of Guelph from 2004 – 2005 and as a member of the Executive of the Southwestern Ontario Branch of the Institute of Corporate Directors from 2018 until 2024.

    Jane is a former member of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal Panel and a former Chair of the Guelph Police Services Board. In 2009, Jane received the Chartered Director (C. Dir.) designation from The Directors College, a joint venture of McMaster University and the Conference Board of Canada.

    “On behalf of the management team and Board of Directors I want to express our thanks to Norm Loberg for the leadership and guidance he has provided throughout his tenure as Chair,” said Brian Bentz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alectra Inc. “I also want to extend congratulations to Jane Armstrong on her appointment to the position of Chair of the Board of Directors. Her leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue our work in delivering safe, reliable and affordable electricity services to the approximately 1.1 million homes and businesses that Alectra serves.”

    About Alectra Inc.

    Alectra Inc., through its subsidiary Alectra Utilities Corporation, serves approximately one million homes and businesses across a 1,924 square kilometre service territory comprising 17 communities including Alliston, Aurora, Barrie, Beeton, Brampton, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Guelph, Hamilton, Markham, Mississauga, Penetanguishene, Richmond Hill, Rockwood, St. Catharines, Thornton, Tottenham, and Vaughan. The Alectra family of companies includes Alectra Inc. (Mississauga), Alectra Utilities (Hamilton) and Alectra Energy Solutions (Vaughan).

    Our mission is to provide innovative and reliable energy solutions which deliver lasting value for all.

    X: https://x.com/alectranews

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alectranews/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alectranews/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/16178435/admin/

    Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alectranews.bsky.social

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alectranews

    Media Contact

    Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson
    ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com | Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1.833.MEDIA-LN

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/168ef50d-84cc-410a-bde0-21b5497ad5e5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of Energy Chris Wright to visit Rinnai America in Griffin, Georgia to Mark 100 Days of Unleashing American Energy

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright will travel to Griffin, Georgia, on Friday, May 2, to tour Rinnai America Corporation’s manufacturing facility. Secretary Wright will deliver remarks highlighting the Department’s progress in unleashing American energy dominance, protecting consumer freedom, and restoring energy leadership in the first 100 days of the Trump Administration. 

    Since taking office, Secretary Wright has postponed several burdensome Biden-era appliance mandates, including the rule targeting non-condensing tankless water heaters.

    Rinnai is the only company manufacturing non-condensing tankless water heaters in the United States. A Biden-era rule would have effectively banned these products—putting more than 200 Georgia jobs at risk, undermining U.S. manufacturing, and stripping away a cost-effective, high-efficiency option from American households.

    The visit marks the Department of Energy’s “First 100 Days of Unleashing American Energy Victories,” which includes:

    • Halting restrictive appliance rules to defend consumer choice and protect domestic manufacturing jobs.
    • Supporting energy-efficient innovation by preserving access to advanced home technologies.
    • Reforming federal regulations to allow market-driven solutions and prevent government overreach in household energy use.
    • Defending American competitiveness by ensuring manufacturers like Rinnai can continue producing energy-saving products in the U.S.
    • Delivering relief to families by eliminating costly mandates that would have raised appliance prices across the board.

    Please contact DOENews@hq.doe.gov for press availability or media inquiries.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Highlights 100 Days of Unleashing American Energy Under President Trump

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today released the following statement marking President Trump’s 100th day in office:

    “Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Energy has restored American Energy Dominance and strengthened our position as the largest oil producer and LNG exporter in the world.

    “Following President Trump’s reversal of the reckless Biden LNG export ban, the Department of Energy has approved record levels of new U.S. LNG exports, adding as much incremental capacity in just 100 days as the world’s current second and third largest LNG exporting nations combined.

    “Today, Americans are paying less at the pump and have more choices for home appliances thanks to President Trump cutting red tape and unleashing the production of affordable, reliable, secure American energy.” 

    Under Secretary Wright, the Department of Energy has been hard at work to implement the President Trump’s agenda of unleashing American energy dominance and lowering energy costs for the American people.

    DOE at 100 Days: Top Accomplishments

    • January 21 – President Trump officially reverses the Biden-era pause on LNG exports, restoring regular order and reaffirming U.S. global energy leadership. 
    • February 3 – Secretary Chris Wright is officially sworn in as Secretary of Energy, pledging to cut red tape, prioritize common-sense solutions, and unleash American ingenuity. 
    • February 5 – Secretary Wright delivers welcome remarks to DOE staff at the Forrestal Building, outlining his vision for restoring American energy dominance. 
    • February 5 – Secretary Wright signs his first Secretarial Order, directing DOE to implement President Trump’s energy-focused executive orders immediately. 
    • February 5 – Secretary Wright announces the “9 Pillars for American Energy Dominance,” establishing DOE’s strategic roadmap: 
      • Advance Energy Addition, Not Subtraction – Focused on expanding energy supply, not restricting it. 
      • Unleash American Energy Innovation – Empowering the National Labs, advanced nuclear, and cutting-edge energy R&D. 
      • Return to Regular Order on LNG Exports – Restoring certainty and accelerating LNG approvals. 
      • Promote Affordability and Consumer Choice in Home Appliances – Halting burdensome appliance regulations to protect consumer freedom. 
      • Refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) – Prioritizing domestic energy security through reserve replenishment. 
      • Modernize America’s Nuclear Stockpile – Supporting national security through safe, modern nuclear capabilities. 
      • Unleash Commercial Nuclear Power in the United States – Reviving and advancing nuclear energy projects. 
      • Strengthen Grid Reliability and Security – Ensuring the U.S. grid is resilient, dependable, and cyber secure. 
      • Streamline Permitting and Identify Undue Burdens on American Energy – Reducing delays for energy infrastructure and innovation. 
    • February 12 – Secretary Wright meets His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, discussing cooperation to foster economic growth through energy abundance. 
    • February 14 – Secretary Wright issues the first LNG export approval for Commonwealth LNG, sending a signal that the U.S. is once again open for business and restoring American leadership on LNG exports. 
    • February 14 – President Trump establishes the National Energy Dominance Council, chaired by Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and vice-chaired by Secretary Wright. 
    • February 18– DOE completed demolition of the south side of the Alpha-2 building at the Y-12 National Security Complex, marking the largest demolition project at Y-12 and supporting modernization for national security missions. 
    • February 19 – Secretary Wright and DOE representatives met with Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy to discuss advancing the ambitious Alaska Gas Pipeline and Alaska LNG Project.
    • February 25 – Secretary Wright visits Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories to advance nuclear modernization and AI innovation, calling AI the “next Manhattan Project.” 
    • February 28 – DOE removes regulatory barriers for the use of LNG as a marine fuel, strengthening America’s energy competitiveness in shipping. 
    • February 28 – Secretary Wright visits Oak Ridge National Laboratory to observe modernization efforts supporting national security and advanced nuclear energy. During the visit, Secretary Wright participates in the “1,000 Scientist AI Jam Session” with Senator Hagerty, Chairman Fleischmann, and Greg Brockman, OpenAI President and Co-Founder to accelerate scientific discovery through AI. 
    • March 4 – DOE commissions the Safety Significant Confinement Ventilation System (SSCVS) at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), improving safety and efficiency underground. 
    • March 5 – Secretary Wright approves an LNG export permit extension for Golden Pass LNG Terminal, reinforcing U.S. energy supply security. 
    • March 6 – Secretaries Wright and Burgum deliver remarks at Venture Global’s Plaquemines LNG Export Facility, marking an $18 billion expansion project supporting LNG exports to Asia and Europe made possible by President Trump’s leadership. 
    • March 7 – Secretary Wright delivers keynote address at the Powering Africa Summit, promoting U.S. energy investment and supply chain partnerships on the African continent. 
    • March 10 – DOE leads successful advocacy efforts to return the International Energy Agency (IEA) to the Current Policies Scenario (CPS), restoring focus on energy security. 
    • March 12 – DOE supports the first U.S.-Japan fast reactor fuel safety test of the 21st century at the TREAT reactor at Idaho National Laboratory. 
    • March 14 – Secretary Wright powers up American energy leadership at CERAWeek 2025 in Houston, Texas, delivering a keynote address on restoring U.S. energy dominance and the return to commonsense, pro-consumer, pro-growth energy policies under President Trump’s leadership. 
    • March 17 – Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers demonstrate a new method to track chemical changes in molten salt in real-time, advancing next-generation nuclear reactors. 
    • March 17 – DOE issues a second loan disbursement to Holtec International to reopen the Palisades Nuclear Plant restart project in Michigan, advancing President Trump’s commitment to expand all sources of energy that are affordable, reliable and secure. 
    • March 18 – DOE completes demolition of Building 175 at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, opening land for future science missions and innovation expansion. 
    • March 19 – Secretary Wright signs an LNG export authorization for Venture Global’s CP2 LNG project, supporting U.S. energy exports to allies abroad. With this action, DOE has approved more than DOE has approved over 9.5 Bcf/d of U.S. LNG.  
    • March 19 – DOE releases Biden administration’s buried 2023 study on the benefits of U.S. LNG exports, demonstrating the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring transparency and commonsense to energy policymaking. 
    • March 24 – DOE reissues a $900 million solicitation to accelerate the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) and strengthen America’s nuclear future. 
    • March 24 – DOE announces the postponement of efficiency standards for gas instantaneous water heaters, expanding consumer choice, lowering costs and protecting American manufacturing jobs. 
    • March 24 – DOE further delays the implementation of Biden-era home efficiency standards for walk-in coolers and freezers and central air conditioners and heat pumps, ensuring Americans can choose the appliances that fit best for their lifestyle and budget.  
    • March 24 – DOE withdraws four conservation standards, including standards on electric motors, ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, and external power supplies, advancing President Trump’s pledge to cut the red tape and regulations that raise prices, reduce consumer choice, and frustrate the American people.   
    • March 27 – DOE announces streamlined permitting reforms at the Department’s 17 National Labs, accelerating critical infrastructure projects and saving taxpayers millions. 
    • March 28 – DOE helps unlock U.S.-India civil nuclear investment and exports by resolving liability issues and promoting American SMR technologies in India. 
    • April 1 – DOE removes additional regulatory barriers standing in the way of LNG export extensions, restoring certainty for U.S. energy developers. 
    • April 3 – Secretary Wright visits the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado, to highlight innovation in renewables and AI-driven energy solutions. 
    • April 3 – DOE announces a Request for Information to co-locate data centers and energy infrastructure on DOE lands, powering America’s AI revolution with abundant U.S. energy. 
    • April 3 – DOE awards a $1.4 billion Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) management contract to Strategic Storage Partners to safeguard emergency fuel supplies. 
    • April 4 – DOE leads bilateral engagement with Vietnam on foreign direct investment screening, countering malign influence and strengthening economic security. 
    • April 8 – DOE reinstates the National Coal Council and initiates new actions to unleash American coal, including promoting investment and mineral recovery from coal ash following President Trump’s Executive Order “Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry”. 
    • April 9 – DOE allocates high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) material to five U.S. advanced nuclear reactor developers to boost domestic reactor deployment. 
    • April 9 – Secretary Wright travels to the United Arab Emirates, beginning a high-level mission to strengthen energy partnerships and attract Gulf investment to America. 
    • April 9 – DOE issues a Request for Information (RFI) seeking input to improve energy conservation standards and restore consumer choice in household products. 
    • April 10 – DOE begins testing accident-tolerant, higher-enriched nuclear fuel in a U.S. commercial reactor to boost reactor performance and longevity. 
    • April 11 – DOE announces a new policy saving $405 million annually by halting inefficient spending by colleges and universities receiving DOE research funds. 
    • April 15 – Secretary Wright holds bilateral talks on shared energy security goals with senior leaders in the U.A.E., Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The Secretary also delivers remarks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following the announcement of an agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) advancing bilateral energy cooperation.  
    • April 18 – DOE repeals the Biden-era burdensome definition of “showerhead,” restoring consumer choice and rolling back overregulation. 
    • April 21 – DOE solicits public feedback to lift energy efficiency regulations on portable electric spas, protecting market competition and consumer access. 
    • April 22 – DOE issues a third loan disbursement to Holtec International for the Palisades Nuclear Plant, restoring nuclear generation to the Midwest grid. 
    • April 22 – DOE conducts four site inspections ensuring companies comply with national security terms under CFIUS mitigation agreements. 
    • April 22 – DOE extends deadline for compliance with the Biden administration’s efficiency standards for manufactured housing, granting greater flexibility for both manufacturers and consumers. 
    • April 28 – Secretary Wright oversees the signing of the Engineering Development Agreement between U.S. companies Bechtel and Westinghouse with PEJ to advance Poland’s first AP-1000 nuclear power plant. 
    • April 28 – Secretary Wright meets with senior leaders from across Central Europe and delivers keynote remarks at the Three Seas Business Forum in Poland, where he invites European nations to invest in American energy and embrace a shared vision for greater energy security.   
    • April 28 – DOE announces the cancellation of wasteful and unnecessary contracts, generating over $700 million in immediate savings for American taxpayers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £37.3million winter heating help paid to people in Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    Over half a million people get payments for winter 2024/2025

    Last winter over half a million children and families across Scotland enjoyed warmer homes after receiving a total of £37.3million towards their heating bills from Social Security Scotland.

    Winter Heating Payment is paid automatically to people who get certain low-income benefits, including households with young children, disabled people or older people. It has replaced the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) Cold Weather Payment in Scotland.

    It is a guaranteed payment that everyone who is eligible receives, no matter what the weather. Cold Weather Payment is only paid if the average temperature falls – or is forecast to fall – to freezing or below for a full week. 

    Child Winter Heating Payment was introduced by the Scottish Government in November 2020 and is only available in Scotland. It is paid once a year to children and young people if they are under 19 years old and get certain benefits.

    The figures, taken from statistics released today (Tuesday 29 April), also show that 95% of Winter Heating Payments were made by December 2024 and 93% of Child Winter Heating Payments were made by October 2024.

    A total of 465,510 Winter Heating Payments, worth £27.3million, were made for 2024/2025, along with 39,590 Child Winter Heating Payments, worth £10million.

     Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

    “We have issued over 505,100 payments to families on low incomes, and those supporting children or young people with a disability, to help with the cost of heating their homes.

    “Many people are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and higher energy bills. The importance of these payments was brought home to everyone this month with the Energy Price Cap rising by 6.4%. Ofgem estimates that this will add £9.25 a month to the typical household’s energy bill.  

    “This year we will also be providing extra support to pensioners. While the DWP’s Winter Fuel Payment will only be available to some pensioners, Pension Age Winter Heating Payment will provide money to every pensioner household in the country. The Scottish Government will continue to protect pensioners and people on low incomes in Scotland.”

    Background

     Link to the latest statistics:

    Winter Heating Benefits: Statistics for Winter 2024/2025

    Energy price cap will rise by 6.4% from April | Ofgem

    The information for Winter Heating Payments comes from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP). The last of four data files was received from the DWP in late March 2025.

    Winter Heating Payment is paid automatically to people who were getting any of these benefits during the qualifying week:

    ·      Universal Credit

    ·      Pension Credit

    ·      Income Support

    ·      Income-based Jobseekers Allowance

    ·      Support for Mortgage Interest

    Some restrictions apply for some of these benefits. For example, for those qualifying through Income Support may also have to have a child under 5, a disability premium or a pensioner premium.

    Children and young people in Scotland can get Child Winter Heating Payment if they are under 19 years old and get one of the following qualifying benefits:

    • highest rate of the care component of Child Disability Payment
    • highest rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance for children
    • enhanced rate of the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment
    • enhanced rate of the daily living component of Adult Disability Payment

    They must be getting this on at least one day in the week starting with the third Monday of September (called the ‘qualifying week’). In 2024, this was Monday 16 September to Sunday 22 September.

    The qualifying week for Winter Heating Payment was Monday 4 November 2024 to Sunday 10 November 2024.

    We will introduce a universal Pension Age Winter Heating Payment in winter 2025/2026 for all pensioner households in Scotland. This universal payment will provide much needed support not available anywhere else in the UK and will support older people across Scotland as we had always intended to do before the UK Government’s decision to cut the payment.

    From winter 2025/26, pensioners in Scotland in receipt of a relevant qualifying benefit, such as Pension Credit, and who will receive payments of £200 or £300 this winter, depending on their age, will continue to receive those payments automatically. Additionally, we will introduce universal payments of £100 to every other pensioner household.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Continued Enrolment Growth in Sask DLC Mechanical and Automotive Courses

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 29, 2025

    Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC) continues to see significant increases in student interest in online Mechanical and Automotive courses for high school students. 

    Today, to help support this growing interest, Sask DLC students had the opportunity to participate in a one-day, hands-on learning camp at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s (Sask Polytech) Saskatoon campus. The opportunity offered practical experience and valuable insights from industry professionals and is the second mechanical and automotive learning camp Sask DLC and Sask Poly have hosted this year.

    Student registration in Sask DLC’s Mechanical and Automotive courses increased significantly in its second year of operation. To date this school year, there are more than 400 student registrations for Sask DLC Mechanical and Automotive courses, including 186 with work placements. 

    Last year, 126 students registered in Mechanical and Automotive 10, 20 or 30 level courses, completing more than 4,500 work placement hours. An additional 97 students took the introductory theory-only course.  

    “It is exciting to see another great learning camp day in partnership between the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre and the autobody sector,” Minister Responsible for Sask DLC Everett Hindley said. “The autobody industry is an evolving and growing sector and a key component in many local communities across Saskatchewan. This is an excellent opportunity for DLC high school students from all around the province who are interested in this field of work to come experience hands-on learning and gain knowledge right from industry experts.”

    Sask DLC and Sask Polytech learning camps provide students from across the province with opportunities to learn about potential career paths and make informed choices for their future beyond high school. The camps allow students to either confirm their current career aspirations or discover new ones. Students also get a preview of Sask Polytech’s Automotive Service Technician certificate program and apprenticeship training options. 

    “We have an excellent partnership with Sask DLC and always appreciate hosting high school students on campus for hands-on training,” Sask Polytech President and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia said. “These one-day camps are a great opportunity to learn more about a career in the automotive industry and discover what Sask Polytech can offer. Our instructors bring industry experience and a wealth of knowledge – whether it’s to the camps or to our shops, classrooms and labs.”

    Sask DLC offers six Mechanical and Automotive courses for students across the province, including a 10-level introductory course where students can choose to do full-online theory or participate in 75 hours of online theory with a 25-hour work placement. At the 20-and-30- level, each course is a combination of 50 hours of online theory and 50 hours of an in-person work placement at a local business. Students choosing to participate in the learning camp at Sask Polytech earn six credit hours toward their work placement requirement. 

    Student work placements are made possible thanks to a partnership between Sask DLC and the Saskatchewan Automobile Dealers Association (SADA). Through this partnership, students are provided with opportunities to complete their work placement at a SADA member dealership. This partnership provides students with work placement opportunities near their home community and supports the automotive sector’s recruitment of future qualified employees to serve the industry. 

    “Our association is pleased to help provide students with meaningful work placement opportunities,” SADA Executive Director Larry Heggs said. “Work placements with our member dealers provide students with fundamental practical skills and allow them to make key contacts in the industry.”

    These courses complement several other Sask DLC courses with work placements or hands-on learning opportunities available to students including:

    • Agriculture Equipment Technician
    • Autobody
    • Construction and Carpentry
    • Electrical
    • Energy and Mines – Oil & Gas
    • Parts Technician
    • Power Engineering 
    • Precision Agriculture 
    • Tourism
    • Welding

    Sask DLC’s Mechanical and Automotive courses are open for registration for the 2025-26 school year at saskDLC.ca. The courses are available to full-time Sask DLC students or high school students attending local schools throughout the province to supplement their in-person learning. High school students can contact their local school administrator or guidance counsellor for help registering.

    You can learn more about all online courses with work placements available through Sask DLC at saskDLC.ca. 

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –