NewzIntel.com

Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Developing oil and gas resources can boost economy

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe says developing the country’s gas and oil potential could be a game changer for economic growth.

    “The South African government wants accelerated oil exploration in the country’s waters, we believe developing the country’s oil and gas resources could boost the country’s economic growth rate to 5% and possibly 8%. 

    “Government took a decision to rationalise some of our State-owned Entities [SOEs] to form the South African National Petroleum Company [SANPC]. The SANPC is a strategic intervention by government to create a State-owned national company to actively pursue oil and gas projects,” the Minister said in his speaking notes at the 4th Annual Southern Africa Oil and Gas (SAOG) Conference in Cape Town on Wednesday.

    Exploration has found that South Africa’s coastal and adjoining waters hold approximately nine billion barrels of oil and a further 11 billion barrels oil equivalent of natural gas, although there remains uncertainty about the extent.

    Mantashe noted that considering increasing demand for natural gas, “government has moved with speed to finalise the Gas Master Plan to achieve a stable and growing economy”. 

    “The Gas Master Plan is designed to complement existing energy policies and contribute to an integrated energy planning approach for the country as outlined in the updated Integrated Resources Plan. It provides a framework for the role of natural gas in the energy mix and gives policy direction to industry. 

    “Its objective is to ensure that government is able to diversify supply options from local and international markets. Furthermore, to facilitate the development an efficient, competitive and responsive energy infrastructure network, such as gas storage facilities, liquefied natural gas import facilities, pipeline networks and regasification plants.

    “Through this, the Plan would also enhance localisation, create jobs and enable inclusive economic growth,” Mantashe said.

    He noted that the European bloc of nations is looking to Africa to “diversify its gas supplies”. 

    “While this presents an opportunity to earn foreign revenue, we should ensure that we do not export our gas at the expense of domestic and regional markets. It is imperative for SADC [Southern African Development Community] countries to be resolute in their efforts to unlock oil and gas exploration and development. 

    “This further presents SADC countries with an opportunity to determine conditions that will alleviate global oil and gas prices by developing their own resources.

    “There must be a concerted effort among African nations to ensure that the oil and gas sector grows and thrives through investments in the upstream development for the economic prosperity of our nations,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Signs Export Authorization for Venture Global CP2 LNG

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today approved a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export authorization to the Venture Global CP2 LNG export project proposed for Cameron Parish, Louisiana. This action reflects another step in the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring American energy dominance.

    “The benefits of expanding U.S. LNG exports have never been more clear, and I am proud to be taking action to support the American people and our allies abroad with more affordable, reliable, secure American energy,” said Secretary Wright. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we are cutting the red tape around projects like CP2, unleashing our energy potential and ensuring U.S. can continue to meet growing energy demand for decades to come.”

    The issuance to CP2 marks the fifth LNG-related approval from DOE since President Trump took office, following an export approval to Commonwealth LNG on February 14, an order on rehearing removing barriers for the use of LNG as bunkering fuel announced on February 28, an approval providing the Golden Pass LNG terminal more time to commence exports issued March 5, and approval granting the Delfin LNG project additional time to commence exports issued on March 10.

    Once constructed, CP2, owned by Venture Global, will be able to export up to 3.96 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of LNG.

    “The CP2 project is another project that has been waiting too long for regulatory action at DOE, and I am glad to see that being corrected today” said Tala Goudarzi, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “With Venture Global’s track record of getting projects constructed quickly, I look forward to seeing this project come to fruition before long.”

    Today’s authorization conditionally grants CP2 authorization to export LNG to non-free trade agreement countries from the proposed CP2 LNG project. In the order, DOE finds that LNG exports from CP2 LNG are likely to yield economic benefits to the United States, diversify global LNG supplies, and improve energy security for U.S. allies and trading partners over the course of the export term through 2050. DOE expects to issue a final order to CP2 LNG in the coming months.

    CP2 is the third LNG export project that has been developed by Venture Global, with the Calcasieu Pass project coming online in March 2022 and the Plaquemines LNG project beginning exports in late 2024. Accompanying the buildout of LNG export terminals is an increase of natural gas pipelines across the U.S., with approximately 8.5 Bcf/d of pipeline additions for delivery to LNG export terminals recently completed in Texas and Louisiana.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation considered under suspension of the Rules of the House of Representatives during the week of March 24, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.

    At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.

    CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of March 24, 2025, include:

    • H.R. 359, Cost-Share Accountability Act of 2025
    • H.R. 730, Mathematical and Statistical Modeling Education Act
    • H.R. 1223, ANCHOR Act
    • H.R. 1318, United States Research Protection Act
    • H.R. 1325, Commercial Remote Sensing Amendment Act of 2025
    • H.R. 1326, DOE and USDA Interagency Research Act
    • H.R. 1350, DOE and NSF Interagency Research Act
    • H.R. 1368, DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act
    • H.R. 1453, Clean Energy Demonstration Transparency Act of 2025
    • H.R. 1534, IMPACT Act

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Revoking EPA’s endangerment finding – the keystone of US climate policies – won’t be simple and could have unintended consequences

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Patrick Parenteau, Professor of Law Emeritus, Vermont Law & Graduate School

    Several U.S. climate regulations aim to reduce burning of fossil fuels, a driver of climate change. Visions of America/Joseph Sohm/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    Most of the United States’ major climate regulations are underpinned by one important document: It’s called the endangerment finding, and it concludes that greenhouse gas emissions are a threat to human health and welfare.

    The Trump administration is vowing to eliminate it.

    Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin referred to the 2009 endangerment finding as the “holy grail of the climate religion” when he announced on March 12, 2025, that he would reconsider the finding and all U.S. climate regulations and actions that rely on it. That would include rules to control planet-warming emissions of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane from power plants, vehicles and oil and gas operations.

    But revoking the endangerment finding isn’t a simple task. And doing so could have unintended consequences for the very industries Trump is trying to help.

    EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announces plans to reconsider more than 30 climate regulations.

    As a law professor, I have tracked federal climate regulations and the lawsuits and court rulings that have followed them over the past 25 years. To understand the challenges, let’s look at the endangerment finding’s origins and Zeldin’s options.

    Origin and limits of the endangerment finding

    In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Massachusetts v. EPA that six greenhouse gases are pollutants under the Clean Air Act and that the EPA has a duty under the same law to determine whether they pose a danger to public health or welfare.

    The court also ruled that once the EPA made an endangerment finding, the agency would have a mandatory duty under the Clean Air Act to regulate all sources that contribute to the danger.

    The Court emphasized that the endangerment finding was a scientific determination and rejected a laundry list of policy arguments made by the George W. Bush administration for why the government preferred to use nonregulatory approaches to reduce emissions. The court said the only question was whether sufficient scientific evidence exists to determine whether greenhouse gases are harmful.

    The endangerment finding was the EPA’s response.

    The finding was challenged and upheld in 2012 by the U.S. District Circuit for the District of Columbia. In that case, Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. EPA, the court found that the “body of scientific evidence marshaled by the EPA in support of the endangerment finding is substantial.” The Supreme Court declined to review the decision. The endangerment finding was updated and confirmed by the EPA in 2015 and 2016.

    Challenging the endangerment finding

    The scientific basis for the endangerment finding is stronger today than it was in 2009.

    The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s latest assessment report, involving hundreds of scientists and thousands of studies from around the world, concluded that the scientific evidence for warming of the climate system is “unequivocal” and that greenhouse gases from human activities are causing it.

    According to the National Climate Assessment released in 2023, the effects of human-caused climate change are already “far-reaching and worsening across every region of the United States.”

    Summer temperatures have climbed in much of the U.S. and the world as greenhouse gas emissions have risen.
    Fifth National Climate Assessment

    During President Donald Trump’s first term, then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt considered repealing the endangerment finding but ultimately decided against it. In fact, he relied on it in proposing the Affordable Clean Energy Rule to replace President Barack Obama’s Clean Power Plan for regulating emissions for coal-fired power plants.

    What happens if the EPA revokes the endangerment finding?

    For the Trump administration to now revoke that finding, Zeldin must first recruit new members of the EPA’s Science Advisory Board to replace those dismissed by the Trump administration. Congress created the board in 1978 to provide independent, unbiased scientific advice to the EPA administrator, and it has consistently supported the 2009 endangerment finding.

    Zeldin must then initiate rulemaking in compliance with the Administrative Procedure Act, provide the opportunity for public comment and respond to comments that are likely to be voluminous. This process could take several months if done properly.

    If Zeldin then decides to revoke the endangerment finding, lawsuits will immediately challenge the move.

    Even if Zeldin is able to revoke the finding, that does not automatically repeal all the rules that rely on it. Each of those rules must go through separate rulemaking processes that will also take months.

    Zeldin could simply refuse to enforce the rules on the books while he reconsiders the endangerment finding.

    However, a blanket policy abdicating any enforcement responsibility could be challenged in lawsuits as arbitrary and capricious. Further, the regulated industries would be taking a chance if they delayed complying with regulations only to find the endangerment finding and climate laws still in place.

    Zeldin’s cost argument

    Zeldin previewed his arguments in a news release on March 12.

    His first argument is that the 2009 endangerment finding did not consider costs. However, that argument was rejected by the D.C. Circuit Court in Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. EPA. Cost becomes relevant once the EPA considers new regulations – after the endangerment finding.

    Moreover, in a unanimous 2001 decision, the Supreme Court in Whitman v. American Trucking Associations held that the EPA cannot consider cost in setting air quality standards.

    A repeal could backfire

    Repealing the endangerment finding could also backfire on the fossil fuel industry.

    States and cities have filed dozens of lawsuits against the major oil companies. The industry’s strongest argument has been that these cases are preempted by federal law. In AEP v. Connecticut in 2011, the Supreme Court ruled that the Clean Air Act “displaced” federal common law, barring state claims for remedies related to damages from climate change.

    However, if the endangerment finding is repealed, then there is arguably no basis for federal preemption, and these state lawsuits would have legal grounds. Prominent industry lawyers have warned the EPA about this and urged it to focus instead on changing individual regulations. The industry is concerned enough that it may try to get Congress to grant it immunity from climate lawsuits.

    To the extent that Zeldin is counting on the conservative Supreme Court to back him up, he may be disappointed.

    In 2024, the court overturned the Chevron doctrine, which required courts to defer to agencies’ reasonable interpretations when laws were ambiguous. That means Zeldin’s reinterpretation of the statute is not entitled to deference. Nor can he count on the court overturning its Massachusetts v. EPA ruling to free him to disregard science for policy reasons.

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

    – ref. Revoking EPA’s endangerment finding – the keystone of US climate policies – won’t be simple and could have unintended consequences – https://theconversation.com/revoking-epas-endangerment-finding-the-keystone-of-us-climate-policies-wont-be-simple-and-could-have-unintended-consequences-252271

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British start-up wins £1 million AI prize for breakthrough slashing materials development from years to days

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    British start-up wins £1 million AI prize for breakthrough slashing materials development from years to days

    A British AI-driven innovation that dramatically speeds up the development of materials used in wind turbines and electric vehicle batteries has won the UK government’s £1 million Manchester Prize.

    Manchester Prize winner announced.

    • Polaron awarded £1 million for revolutionary AI technology transforming materials innovation.
    • Breakthrough expected to fast-track new materials for energy, infrastructure, and electric vehicles.
    • Manchester Prize helping to unlock AI innovation to drive growth as part of government’s Plan for Change.

    A British AI-driven innovation that dramatically speeds up the development of materials used in wind turbines and electric vehicle batteries has won the UK government’s £1 million Manchester Prize.

    Advanced materials are essential to modern life, from metal alloys reinforcing bridges and skyscrapers to batteries powering electric vehicles. Yet, developing them has traditionally been slow, costly and unpredictable. 

    Polaron, a spin out from Imperial College London, speeds up the development of these materials from years to days – which could be game-changing for the government’s Plan for Change to get Britain building, deliver economic growth and accelerate net zero through British innovation.

    It will receive £1 million in UK government funding to further develop its groundbreaking AI solution which uses microstructural images – the microscopic features of a material visible under a microscope – to rapidly analyse and predict how materials will perform. This new approach helps manufacturers create stronger, lighter and more efficient materials for clean energy, transport and infrastructure. 

    Secretary of State Peter Kyle said:  

    Polaron exemplifies the promise of AI and shows how, through our Plan for Change, we are putting AI innovation at the forefront.

    AI could generate £400 billion to our economy over the next five years, supporting trailblazing companies like Polaron is essential to achieving that vision.  

    Technologies like these will help us meet our net zero targets while creating new jobs and opportunities for working people. Our commitment is clear – we are fully embracing AI to drive growth, improve public services and position the UK as a global leader in AI innovation. 1

    The Manchester Prize rewards innovative AI solutions addressing major societal challenges, with the first round focused on energy, environment, and infrastructure. Nearly 300 teams from across the UK competed in its first year, with ten finalists each receiving £100,000 and support to further develop their innovations. 

    Polaron’s win comes on the back of the UK government’s new blueprint for AI, which will unleash the technology to help deliver a decade of national renewal. Harnessing innovative AI solutions like this is key to realising the government’s Plan for Change and demonstrates the transformative potential of AI, not only to drive breakthroughs in industry but also to transform public services and improve the lives of citizens across the country. 

    Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Our Plan for Change will deliver economic growth, and for that to succeed we need to support companies such as Polaron across the UK in delivering the cutting-edge materials of the future, supported by our Industrial Strategy.

    This government is determined to embrace each and every opportunity of new technologies like AI, which will not only help British companies develop products we can use at home but also open up access for them to export them overseas.

    The government has already taken steps to accelerate how game changing technologies and innovations can be put into the hands of the British public – announcing the new Regulatory Innovation Office which will reduce burdens for businesses hoping to bring new products and services to market. This will involve supporting regulators to update regulation, speeding up approvals, and ensuring regulators can work seamlessly together – bulldozing barriers to innovation to help grow the economy.

    The Manchester Prize was launched in December 2023 by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) and is delivered in partnership with Challenge Works. It supports UK AI innovations which will help to tackle some of society’s biggest shared challenges. 

    The second round of the Manchester Prize was launched in November 2024, focussed on ‘AI for Clean Energy Systems’. The 10 finalists selected to receive £100,000 will be confirmed in Spring, before a panel of judges selects the winner who will secure a £1 million grand prize to further support their innovation.  

    Notes to editors

    1. Public First, ‘Google’s Impact in the UK 2023’, 2024 

    For further information and to follow the Manchester Prize, visit www.challengeworks.org.uk//challenge-prizes/manchester-prize. 

    Challenge Works is a global leader in designing and delivering high-impact challenge prizes that incentivise cutting-edge innovation for social good.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024 Army Community Partnership Award winners announced

    Source: United States Army

    WASHINGTON – The Department of the Army has announced the seven winners of the 2024 Army Community Partnership Awards.

    “The installations honored this year highlight the excellent commitment to partnering with communities and strengthening those relationships that allow us to provide the best possible resources for Soldiers and their families,” said Lt. Gen. David Wilson, Deputy Chief of Staff, G-9.

    The Army Community Partnership Awards Program seeks to highlight examples of exceptional cooperation and diligence that will encourage continued collaboration to achieve the full potential of community partnerships. The awardees represent partnerships that have improved quality of life for Soldiers and their families, enhanced readiness, driven modernization and contributed to reform initiatives throughout the Army.

    “These partnerships exemplify the collaboration required to enhance our resilience, improve quality of life for our Soldiers and their families, and bolster our operational readiness to meet the needs of our Army today and tomorrow,” said Daniel M. Klippstein, senior official performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment.

    The Army selected seven winners and their neighboring communities that formed innovative partnerships that improve quality of life for Soldiers and families, enhance readiness, modernize services, provide efficiencies, expand capabilities and strengthen community relations.

    • Fort Leonard Wood and the cities of Saint Robert and Waynesville: Fort Leonard Wood’s new airfield lease project supports the construction of a new non-Army funded terminal critical to the long-term viability of commercial jet service to and from the installation. The new 25-year lease, new terminal, and past investments in planning, improvements, and repairs reiterates long-term commitments from the cities, the FAA and the state of Missouri to maintain accessibility to Fort Leonard Wood. The new terminal will modernize and increase the efficiency of all terminal operational and security services, systems and processes as compared to existing legacy facilities.
    • U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, Pōhakuloa Training Area and the Hawaii County Fire & Emergency Services: The Mutual Aid Agreement between USAG-HI (PTA) and the Hawaii County Fire & Emergency Services seamlessly integrates resources and joint training exercises. This collaboration is a robust mutual support system enhancing the regional emergency response capabilities. Collaboration between PTA and Hawaii County Fire & Emergency Services maximizes shared resource utilization and operational efficiency.
    • Picatinny Arsenal and the Morris County Municipalities & Fire Districts: The MAA between Picatinny Arsenal and the Morris County Municipalities & Fire Districts provides 24-hour emergency dispatching service at no cost to the Army. The partnership enhances Picatinny’s emergency response capabilities and fills a gap in service availability. By partnering with Morris County, Picatinny Arsenal improved their firefighting capabilities through real-world responses and joint training exercises. The MAA enabled Picatinny to access 24/7 emergency response while also realizing significant cost savings.
    • Fort Carson and the Colorado Springs Utilities: The intergovernmental support agreement between Fort Carson and the Colorado Springs Utilities provides Fort Carson with superior operations and maintenance of electric and gas systems beyond pre-IGSA capabilities. Partnering with CSU enhances Fort Carson’s energy resilience by creating the capability to operate independently in the event of an off-post electrical grid failure. The IGSA created the on-post generation and microgrid capabilities necessary to operate during an off-post blackouts.
    • Fort Bliss and the El Paso Water Utilities Public Service Board: This IGSA between USAG-Fort Bliss and the El Paso Water Utilities Public Service Board provides engineering, technical, project design, consultant services, minor construction, repair, maintenance, geotechnical services, land surveying, soil borings, water quality testing, and water resource planning services associated with and incidental to stormwater management, water quality, water conservation, and those types of capital improvement projects.
    • U.S. Army Garrison Poland and the Republic of Poland: The Polish Provided Logistics Support provides in-kind logistical support to the U.S. Army. The PPLS provides infrastructure, logistical support and munitions storage to facilitate joint military exercises as part of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. The availability of pre-positioned equipment and supplies improves the readiness of U.S. forces in the region, enabling a stronger alliance and faster response times.
    • U.S. Army War College and the Cumberland County Department of Public Safety: The MAA between U.S. Army War College and the Cumberland County Department of Public Safety expands operational and mission capabilities by sharing capacity, resources and capabilities. Cooperating with CCDPS has enhanced the War College’s emergency response capabilities. The partnership utilizes joint training and planning, shared emergency response resources, and shared expertise to enhance shared public safety and emergency response capabilities.

    Awardees included partnerships signed in fiscal years 2021-2024 by garrisons, reserve centers and armories. Submissions were evaluated using the following criteria:

    • Improves Soldier/family quality of life
    • Improves or enhances readiness
    • Modernizes a service, system or process
    • Provides cost or other efficiencies
    • Expands capability
    • Improves community relations

    The awards ceremony will be held in the Pentagon Hall of Heroes on April 10, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.

    For additional information, please contact the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-9, usarmy.pentagon.hqda-dcs-g-9.list.sig@mail.mil.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SolMicroGrid Completes its Latest Microgrid Project with Chick-fil-A in California

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and OCEANSIDE, Calif., March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SolMicroGrid, a leading national microgrid company, announced the completion of a microgrid project at a Chick-fil-A® Quarry Creek in Oceanside, California.

    SolMicroGrid typically leverages a combination of solar, on-site battery energy storage, and generators to enable reliable and continuous power to its clients. The project at this Chick-fil-A restaurant includes an 81 kWh battery energy storage system and has a 112 kW solar array consisting of canopy and ground-mounted modules. The project’s components are all controlled by a sophisticated energy management system which optimizes the performance and maximizes the synergies between the technologies. Due to the location’s unique, sloped terrain, SolMicroGrid approached the ground-mount installation with a technique specifically designed for rocky slopes – utilizing ground screws instead of standard concrete-poured footings.

    Among other benefits, microgrid projects strategically deploy distributed energy resources to lower energy bills. The Oceanside project is expected to deliver about one-third of the restaurant’s annual energy needs at a 10% discount to grid power.

    “The combination of solar and battery storage that we provided Chick-fil-A will help reduce energy costs while also achieving sustainability goals,” said Kirk Edelman, CEO of SolMicroGrid. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to provide Chick-fil-A with renewable energy at a discount.”

    SolMicroGrid and Chick-fil-A’s latest achievement comes after successful microgrid deployments at local owner-operated locations at Chick-fil-A Mendocino Avenue in Santa Rosa, CA and Chick-fil-A March Lane at I-5 in Stockton, CA.

    “Chick-fil-A’s investment in piloting solar-powered microgrids, in partnership with SolMicroGrid, demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Peden Young, a principal program lead on the sustainability team at Chick-fil-A, Inc. “Harnessing renewable energy onsite at our restaurants reduces our environmental footprint, while also reflecting Chick-fil-A’s dedication to pursuing what’s next and caring for our planet.”

    SolMicroGrid requires no upfront costs and provides quick-service restaurants, large franchises, grocery stores, and other building operators with customizable microgrid components that reduce energy costs and improve efficiency.

    About SolMicroGrid
    SolMicroGrid is a differentiated developer and operator of solar-enabled microgrid systems, offering energy resiliency and efficiency to commercial and industrial customers. The company’s service solution reduces operating expenses without the need for customer capital investment. SolMicroGrid is a portfolio company of Morgan Stanley Energy Partners.

    Media Contact
    SMG@fischtankpr.com
    FischTank PR

    About Chick-fil-A, Inc.
    Chick-fil-A, Inc. is the third largest quick-service restaurant company in the United States, known for its freshly prepared food, signature hospitality and unique franchise model. More than 200,000 Team Members are employed by local Owner-Operators in more than 3,000 restaurants across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

    Chick-fil-A opened its first restaurant in the UK in early 2025 with the goal of launching five locations across the UK within the next two years. The first Singapore restaurant is set to open in late 2025, marking the brand’s entry into Asia.

    Chick-fil-A local Owner-Operators live and work in the communities their restaurants serve, each supporting local efforts to address hunger, education, and making a positive impact. The family-owned and privately held company was founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at  www.chick-fil-a.com  and @ChickfilANews

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cc681a01-c073-46e5-8aa9-e87d8a02e206
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df7428b3-163b-406f-a928-9a04034d8421
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0569f111-cf92-4735-8a7b-29b4050268bd

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BSN Finance Outperforms the Competition—Voted Best Australian Trading Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a defining moment for Australia’s financial sector, BSN Finance has been named the Best Australian Trading Company, solidifying its reputation as a market leader in cutting-edge trading solutions. This recognition comes as BSN Finance continues to outperform competitors, providing investors with powerful analytics, seamless execution, and data-driven market insights.

    As the demand for high-performance trading platforms grows, BSN Finance has emerged as the top choice for traders and investors across Australia, thanks to its advanced technology, real-time stock indicators, and institutional-grade execution speeds.

    A Market Leader in Trading Innovation

    Winning the title of Best Australian Trading Company is a testament to BSN Finance’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for stock market investors. The platform’s award-winning technology integrates:

    • Real-time stock analytics to help investors identify optimal trade opportunities.
    • High-speed execution capabilities, reducing slippage and maximizing returns.
    • Smart risk management tools for greater portfolio stability.
    • Customizable trading dashboards, tailored for Australian market conditions.

    By leveraging machine learning, advanced data analysis, and automated trading insights, BSN Finance ensures investors gain a competitive edge in stock trading.

    Why Australian Investors Prefer BSN Finance

    With a strong focus on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), BSN Finance provides localized insights and market-specific trading tools that help traders navigate the Australian stock market with precision.

    Unlike global platforms that cater to multiple regions, BSN Finance is uniquely designed to meet the needs of Australian investors, ensuring optimized trade execution, relevant stock data, and real-time analysis tailored for the ASX.

    This localized approach has driven a surge in user satisfaction, with traders praising the platform’s efficiency, accuracy, and ease of use.

    What Traders Are Saying About BSN Finance

    The impact of BSN Finance is best reflected in the experiences of its growing community of traders:

    Michael T., Sydney – “I’ve used multiple trading platforms, but BSN Finance is by far the best. The real-time stock indicators have helped me make smarter investment decisions, and the execution speed is unmatched!”

    Samantha L., Melbourne – “As a long-term investor, I rely on accurate market insights. BSN Finance gives me the data I need to analyze trends effectively, and their risk management tools have made my portfolio much more secure.”

    Daniel R., Brisbane – “I was skeptical about switching platforms, but BSN Finance has exceeded my expectations. The depth of market data and seamless interface make trading easier and more efficient than ever!”

    Emily K., Perth – “I love how BSN Finance is built for Australian traders. Their ASX-focused analytics are a game-changer, and I finally feel like I have the tools I need to trade with confidence.”

    Setting the Benchmark for Trading Technology

    As trading technology continues to evolve, BSN Finance remains committed to pushing the boundaries of market intelligence and execution performance. By focusing on data-driven trading solutions, the platform ensures that Australian investors have access to world-class tools and real-time insights to stay ahead of the market.

    The recognition as Best Australian Trading Company is a reflection of BSN Finance’s dedication to continuous improvement, innovation, and investor success.

    About BSN Finance

    BSN Finance is a premier financial technology company, providing advanced trading solutions for Australian investors. With a focus on market analytics, portfolio management tools, and cutting-edge execution technology, the platform is designed to help traders maximize their performance in the stock market.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada announces appointment to the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority Board of Directors

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Biography

    Marie Campagna – Chair, Board of Directors

    Marie Campagna has been a member of the WDBA Board of Directors since 2017 and has most recently served in the role of interim Chair since May 2024.

    Since retiring from her role as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare, Ms. Campagna was appointed as an Executive in Residence at the University of Windsor’s Odette School of Business. She is a facilitator in the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario’s CFO of the Future program.

    Ms. Campagna holds several governance positions that include Board Chair of Essex Energy Corporation, Member of the LaSalle Police Board, Member of Assumption University, Member of Invest Windsor Essex, Past Chair of Transform Shared Services Organization, and a past Board Member of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. She also previously held many board and committee positions with Essex Power Corporation, CMA Ontario, and CMA Canada.

    Ms. Campagna holds an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors, a CPA designation, and is a Fellow and life member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree and an MBA from the University of Windsor.  

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Earth’s lungs are choking on plastic and smoke – scientists hope to unblock them

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jack Marley, Environment + Energy Editor, UK edition

    Martin.Dlugo/Shutterstock

    A graph I saw in high school appeared to show the Earth breathing.

    It was a graph that plotted carbon dioxide in the atmosphere over the course of the 20th century and into the 21st. CO₂ had risen steadily, and then more rapidly, but it hadn’t gone up in a straight line. Each year it had fallen sharply before rising to a new peak, increasing over time in an upwards zig-zag.

    What explained this annual, temporary fall in CO₂, the gas that is overwhelmingly responsible for climate change? The answer was photosynthesis, my physics teacher explained – the miracle by which plants turn light and CO₂ into food.

    This is how our planet has regulated atmospheric carbon for longer than our species has existed. Fossil fuels are disrupting this equilibrium in several ways.

    This roundup of The Conversation’s climate coverage comes from our award-winning weekly climate action newsletter. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed.

    Spring is dawning in the northern hemisphere, where most of the planet’s green land is situated. Trees are unfurling leaves that will soak up carbon in the air and turn it into new bark, roots and branches. On a global scale, it’s like a gigantic inhalation of carbon. In autumn, when trees shed their leaves, Earth will exhale again.

    The air we all breathe is increasingly polluted by fossil fuels. That includes products of fossil fuels, like plastic, which is now so ubiquitous that research suggests simply breathing can introduce microscopic fragments into your brain.



    Read more:
    Breathing may introduce microplastics to the brain – new study

    Something similar is happening in plants – and it could have global consequences.

    Plants are losing their appetite

    “Microplastics are hindering photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert energy from the sun into the fruit and vegetables we eat,” says Denis J. Murphy, an emeritus professor of biotechnology at the University of South Wales.

    “This threatens massive losses in crop and seafood production over the coming decades that could mean food shortages for hundreds of millions of people.”

    Photosynthetic algae feed the fish that ultimately feed us.
    Sinhyu Photographer/Shutterstock

    These are the conclusions of a recent study by researchers in China, Germany and the US. Murphy wasn’t involved, but his own research with plant cells – which the tiniest microplastics can infiltrate, and damage the organs involved in photosynthesis – has him worried.



    Read more:
    Microplastics: are they poisoning crops and jeopardising food production?

    “Given the potential (albeit speculative) risk to global food production, more priority should be given to rigorous scientific research of microplastics and their effects on both crops and the marine life that supports fish and seafood stocks,” he says.

    Not so long ago, people wondered if our fossil fuel habit might actually benefit plant photosynthesis. After all, plants eat CO₂. Flooding the atmosphere with more of it each year could only whet their appetites, right?

    “The amount of CO₂ used by photosynthesis and stored in vegetation and soils has grown over the past 50 years, and now absorbs at least a quarter of human emissions in an average year,” say ecologists Amanda Cavanagh (University of Essex) and Caitlin Moore (University of Western Australia).

    Most of this extra carbon absorption has come from crops and young trees, the pair say, less from mature forests where a lot of the world’s carbon is stored. Cavanagh and Moore say this carbon pump is slowing down, as the other necessary ingredients for photosynthesis – soil nutrients and water – have fallen or stayed the same.



    Read more:
    Carbon dioxide feeds plants, but are earth’s plants getting full?

    Microplastics could slow the rate at which plants remove carbon further. And then there are the effects of climate change, like drought, fires and floods, which will intensify as long as we continue burning fossil fuels.

    After monitoring forests and shrublands in Australia for 20 years, Moore and a team of six colleagues concluded that these ecosystems are at risk of losing their ability to bounce back, and continue absorbing carbon, after successive climate disasters.



    Read more:
    In 20 years of studying how ecosystems absorb carbon, here’s why we’re worried about a tipping point of collapse

    Hacking photosynthesis

    We may have done plenty to reduce global photosynthesis, but a team of scientists at the University of Oxford and the Fraunhofer Society in Germany is trying to turn things around. How? By hacking plants to help them get more out of the process.

    “You would be forgiven for thinking nature has perfected the art of turning sunlight into sugar,” say Jonathan Menary, Sebastian Fuller and Stefan Schillberg.

    “But that isn’t exactly true. If you struggle with life goals, it might reassure you to know even plants haven’t yet reached their full potential.”

    The team say that plants tend to convert less than 5% of sunlight into new tissue – often as little as 1%. That’s because of a mistake plants regularly make, in which an enzyme involved in photosynthesis latches on to oxygen instead of CO₂.

    “If we could prevent this mistake, it would leave plants more energy for photosynthesis,” they say.



    Read more:
    How scientists are helping plants get the most out of photosynthesis

    Cyanobacteria are Earth’s most ancient photosynthesisers. Menary, Fuller and Schillberg say these microscopic organisms could possess useful genes for better sunlight management that might benefit crops like rice and potato plants. Another technique involves helping plants recover from high light exposure quicker.

    Young potato plants in bloom.
    George Trumpeter/Shutterstock

    More efficient photosynthesis, with the help of gene editing and other tools, is not “a silver bullet”, the team stress. Certainly not while fossil fuels continue to drown our green planet in carbon it cannot metabolise.

    However, this work is likely to prove useful as farmers seek to grow more in an increasingly volatile environment, while sparing enough land for nature.

    “This research is about making sure we can grow enough food to feed ourselves,” the team say.

    – ref. Earth’s lungs are choking on plastic and smoke – scientists hope to unblock them – https://theconversation.com/earths-lungs-are-choking-on-plastic-and-smoke-scientists-hope-to-unblock-them-252549

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada Announces Support for British Columbia’s Forest Sector

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 19, 2025          Richmond, British Columbia             Natural Resources Canada

    Canada’s forest sector is an important contributor to our national economy. Since 2017, Canada’s softwood lumber exports have been subject to unfair and unwarranted U.S. duties, and they now face the threat of additional unjustified trade barriers. It is now more important than ever to support Canadian businesses so that they can innovate, diversify and expand their markets to continue to support thousands of jobs in hundreds of communities across the country.

    Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced a total investment of over $20 million for 67 projects that will help to boost the competitiveness and resiliency of British Columbia’s forest sector while growing wood product exports.

    The investments announced today include:

    • over $11.3 million in funding through the Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) program for six projects that will facilitate the adoption and commercialization of new technologies, focusing on the production of innovative, low-carbon products that result in new or diversified revenue streams
    • over $7 million in funding through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI) program, for 50 projects that will advance economic development opportunities in the forest sector for Indigenous communities while strengthening Indigenous leadership and participation in forest stewardship
    • over $1.6 million in funding under the Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) program for nine projects that will promote the adoption and commercialization of wood-based products in the construction sector
    • over $600,000 in Global Forest Leadership program funding for two projects that will strengthen international partnerships with like-minded organizations by sharing Canadian expertise and decreasing market barriers for sustainable forest products

    The Government of Canada will always stand up for Canadians and Canadian industry, and that very much includes the forest sector. The investments announced today will support leadership, innovation and sustainable practices in the forest sector while creating significant economic and environmental benefits for British Columbians and Canadians

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The USGS Library Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the National Center

    Source: US Geological Survey

    To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the USGS’s National Center, the USGS Library is showcasing its collection of materials documenting the planning, development, and completion of this iconic building.

     

    The events

    On display in the National Center Art Hallway during December and January were original photographs, blueprints, documents, and new photographs, including a group photograph on the roof of the National Center taken in October 2024 when more than 150 USGS employees, retirees, and emeriti stood together for an airborne Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS – or, “drone”) “selfie” that recreated original aerial photographs taken in the early 1970s.

     

    The Library hosted an exhibit-opening panel discussion and reception on Tuesday, December 3, in the Dallas Peck Auditorium. Director David Applegate provided opening remarks about the National Center’s storied history, its current role as the center of the USGS, and future opportunities for science and collaboration. Panelists Susan Russell-Robinson (emeritus and former associate program coordinator, Coastal and Marine Geology Program), Harvey Belkin (emeritus research geologist, Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center), Jim Devine (former senior advisor for science applications), and Jane Hammarstrom (research geologist) shared stories about the building’s early years, including:

    • Commuting on the employee shuttle bus between downtown D.C. and Reston, which included snacks and beverages on Friday afternoons.
    • Navigating the new building, with its labyrinthine hallways and colorful floor plans. Floors were initially identified by distinctive carpet and wall colors. Navigating the building often involved using landmarks like an American flag or even a “Snoopy” poster used as a waypoint. This system led to episodes of hijinks, such as the surreptitious wall repainting using the color of a different floor, and the moving of navigational landmarks to confusing yet comedic effect.
    • Enjoying a more open environment where exterior doors were left open and staff were not required to show identification.
    • The challenge of packing and unpacking vast numbers of geologic samples and sometimes finding that on-the-fly customization was needed when storage systems didn’t work as intended.
    • The plan to have a helipad on the roof for Secretarial visits. (Once it was determined that fume hood exhaust from the building’s labs posed a potential explosion hazard, the plan was scrapped.) 

    Sandy Brosnahan, the head of the Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center’s UAS program, organized the UAS overflight with logistical support from Jessica DeWitt from the Florence Bascom Geoscience Center. Facilities support for the rooftop activities was provided by Alan Ragsdale and Erica Lowe.

    Building history highlights

    As the National Center in Reston marks this milestone, it’s an excellent time to reflect on its history. The journey to the National Center began long before its groundbreaking in 1971. In the years following World War II, the USGS had expanded significantly, operating out of more than 30 different buildings across Washington, D.C., and its surrounding areas, from Silver Spring to Arlington to McLean. With the need for a centralized location to support its growing mission, plans were set in motion to relocate the USGS to a single site. 

    After considering multiple location options, the decision was made to build in Reston, which was then a rural area far from the bustling heart of D.C. In 1970, the Bureau of the Budget approved the project to move forward and in 1971, the George H. Hyman Construction Company of Washington was awarded the $44 million contract to construct the USGS National Center. At the groundbreaking on July 31, 1971, Secretary of the Interior Rogers C.B. Morton turned the ceremonial first shovelful of earth. 

    The challenges of moving to a less-developed location were numerous. Traffic studies were conducted to determine how to manage the daily influx of 2,500 employees into Reston, which at the time had only one bridge and narrow roads. Despite these hurdles, the site offered opportunities that could not be realized in the congested downtown D.C. area.  

    The building’s unique design, which evokes a compass rose, has become synonymous with the bureau’s mission of scientific exploration and discovery. The first occupants of the National Center included a large number of staff and machinery to conduct mapping, printing and the reproduction of USGS products. The building has since housed numerous labs, offices, and support functions, serving as a hub for geological, biological, and environmental research that serves the U.S. and the world.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP Goes Multi-Chain: Bitget Wallet’s Super DEX Unlocks XRP Trading Amid Ripple’s Legal Win

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, March 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, now enables seamless XRP trading through its Super DEX, offering users deep liquidity, optimized swap routes, and gas fee flexibility across multiple chains.

    Super DEX offers a seamless multi-chain trading experience, integrating 130+ blockchains and aggregating liquidity from top DEXs for secure and efficient swaps. It enables XRP and other long-tail asset trading with intelligent routing and slippage optimization, ensuring the best execution. Built-in gas abstraction allows users to pay network fees with multiple mainstream tokens, removing friction from cross-chain transactions. With robust security measures and MEV protection by default, Bitget Wallet ensures safe, unrestricted access to XRP trading as its adoption grows for borderless payments.

    Following the U.S. SEC’s recent decision to drop its appeal against Ripple, XRP has surged in market confidence, reinforcing its position as a key digital asset for cross-border payments. To celebrate, Bitget Wallet is launching an XRP trading campaign for new users, featuring a $10,000 prize pool in XRP and Gas Vouchers. From March 19, 23:00 to March 21, 23:00 (UTC+8), new Bitget Wallet users who cross-chain swap at least $50 in XRP will receive $10 in XRP and Gas Vouchers, available on a first-come, first-served basis. With $5,000 in XRP and $5,000 in Gas Vouchers up for grabs, this campaign aims to introduce more users to Super DEX’s XRP trading capabilities, making cross-chain swaps easier than ever.

    “Our goal is to make Web3 trading effortless, and this XRP campaign is the perfect way to welcome new users into the ecosystem,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “With XRP’s resurgence, we are doubling down on our commitment to cross-chain accessibility, allowing traders to capitalize on market trends without the friction of high fees or complicated processes.”

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is the home of Web3, uniting endless possibilities in one non-custodial wallet. With over 60 million users, it offers comprehensive onchain services, including asset management, instant swaps, rewards, staking, trading tools, live market data, a DApp browser and crypto payment solutions. Supporting over 130 blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges, along with a $300+ million protection fund to ensure safety of users’ assets. Experience Bitget Wallet Lite to start a Web3 journey.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, please contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5c1d27ed-0d14-4085-be84-26f0b92e8c47

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BlueShift Exits Stealth with $2.1M in Pre-Seed Funding to Enable U.S. Self-Reliance Amid Changing Energy Landscape

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BlueShift, the electrochemical climate tech innovator, today emerged from stealth with the announcement of a successful $2.1 million pre-seed funding round. ConocoPhillips Company, Ridgeline and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), with participation from others, have provided funding to enable BlueShift to begin construction of its pilot facility.

    Working out of North America’s largest climate tech incubator, Greentown Labs, and MIT’s The Engine accelerator, BlueShift will direct the bulk of its funding to the first pilot installation of its electrochemical technology in Boston Harbor.

    Combining proprietary membrane-free technology from the University of Michigan, Harvard and supported by ARPA-E—along with additive manufacturing elements and existing infrastructure—BlueShift’s innovative electrochemical systems process alkaline industrial waste and seawater to isolate critical minerals using infrastructure commonly found at desalination and power plants. As a bonus, BlueShift’s low-cost, energy-efficient technologies also extract CO2 directly from seawater as limestone, helping to address the growing environmental issue of ocean acidification.

    “BlueShift was founded with the mission of promoting economic resilience by unlocking underutilized resources using advanced technologies,” said BlueShift Founder & CEO Deep Patel. “And there is perhaps no other class of resources better positioned to benefit from this mission today than that of critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs). Given the dramatic scale of environmental degradation, operational inefficiencies, and global trade imbalances plaguing this market, we felt it was imperative to develop a more sustainable, scalable, and geopolitically stable source of these vital resources. The result is a new system that addresses all of these issues while also offering a low-cost, energy-efficient method for direct carbon dioxide removal (CDR) from our Earth’s ailing oceans.”

    Why a New Path to Critical Mineral Extraction Is Needed Now More Than Ever

    Like most traditional mining practices, those used in the extraction of critical minerals and REEs cause significant environmental damage, including ecosystem destruction, water pollution, and toxic waste production.

    Nonetheless, multiple trillion-dollar global industries depend on these raw materials to produce everything from steel and cosmetics to advanced battery technologies. Indeed, the demand for critical minerals for clean energy technologies is expected to nearly triple by 2030.

    Adding to the challenge, China currently accounts for 70% of global REE extraction, 87% of global REE processing, and roughly two-thirds of the world’s processing and refining capacity for critical minerals. Domestic sources of these raw materials have become increasingly important for both the U.S. sustainable energy goals and national security.

    A Closer Look at BlueShift’s Electrochemical Technology

    Recognizing these problems, the BlueShift team developed its electrochemical systems to unlock resilient, rapidly scalable critical mineral supply chains. Past efforts at isolating these minerals from industrial waste have struggled to scale due to the high energy costs and intensive capital requirements associated with prevailing electrochemical processes.

    This is where BlueShift’s innovations stand apart. Using efficient, modular electrochemical units combined with the power of the ocean, BlueShift’s system is up to 10 times more energy efficient than competing technologies. Furthermore, by avoiding the use of previous materials or bipolar membranes, BlueShift’s technology requires significantly reduced capital expenditures.

    Simultaneously, these technologies offer a low-cost, energy-efficient means of combatting ocean acidification through direct carbon dioxide removal from seawater. In fact, within 14 months of its deployment, BlueShift’s Boston Harbor pilot facility is expected to see a 30x increase in total carbon dioxide removed annually.

    How BlueShift’s Technology Is Advancing the Energy Transition

    “Meeting our climate goals is going to require low-cost, large-scale carbon dioxide removal. BlueShift’s electrochemical technology is a promising new solution to this problem, while its domestic production of critical minerals could contribute to resilient supply chains for clean-energy industries,” said David Wilson, Investment Principal at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. “We’re delighted to be working with the team, as they build their company and pilot the technology in Massachusetts, and glad to have ConocoPhillips bringing its energy industry expertise and support.”

    BlueShift’s business model comprises multiple distinct revenue streams, including the sale of: critical minerals such as nickel, REE products such as neodymium and dysprosium, carbon credits, and licensing and engineering packages to utilities, desalination plants, and others.

    The BlueShift team has already secured several suppliers of input materials for the extraction of critical minerals and REE, including coal ash and olivine mining waste. Both inputs will be processed over the next three quarters as an initial go-to-market implementation of their electrochemical technology and carbon removal system. Additional capital will be used to acquire key production materials, fulfill various technical milestones, and recruit top-tier talent.

    “BlueShift raises the bar for sustainable industrial innovation—advancing domestic critical-mineral production while capturing carbon from seawater. At Ridgeline, we’re proud to back a team proving we can unlock vital resources and build a more resilient future,” said Ridgeline Co-Founder & Managing Partner Ryan Clinton.

    About BlueShift

    Founded in 2024 by a small team of academics, engineers, and climate-tech veterans, BlueShift’s mission is to cultivate economic resilience and environmental sustainability by unlocking underutilized resources with advanced technologies. The company’s electrochemical mineral extraction with carbon removal system is designed to provide more sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective access to alternative critical mineral supply chains, while simultaneously helping to combat climate change. The company utilizes a redox-based, membrane-free electrochemical process to upcycle industrial waste into critical minerals like nickel, and rare earth elements like neodymium, while capturing carbon dioxide directly from the ocean—ultimately enabling industrial sectors to access sustainable sources of these vital materials while simultaneously removing gigatons of excess carbon dioxide from the Earth’s oceans. To learn more about BlueShift, please visit http://buildblueshift.com.

    Media Contact:
    Janabeth Ward
    Scratch Marketing + Media for BlueShift
    blueshift@scratchmm.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces Actions to Combat Cost-of-Living Crisis, Including Rescinding 11 Pieces of Guidance

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The Justice Department today announced that it is taking action in response to President Trump’s Presidential Memorandum “Delivering Emergency Price Relief for American Families and Defeating the Cost-of-Living Crisis.” First, the Department is withdrawing 11 pieces of guidance to streamline Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance resources for American businesses. Next, the Department is raising awareness about tax incentives for businesses related to their compliance with the ADA.

    The Jan. 20 Presidential Memorandum described the regulatory demands put in place by the prior administration and called on the heads of all executive departments and agencies to take appropriate actions to lower the cost of living throughout the country. Today’s withdrawal of 11 pieces of unnecessary and outdated guidance will aid businesses in complying with the ADA by eliminating unnecessary review and focusing only on current ADA guidance. Avoiding confusion and reducing the time spent understanding compliance may allow businesses to deliver price relief to consumers.

    In addition, to further the goals of the Presidential Memorandum and to aid businesses during tax season, the Department is highlighting tax incentives available for businesses to help cover the costs of making access improvements for customers or employees with disabilities. The Department expects that small businesses will find this reminder helpful in reducing costs, especially as they prepare their tax filings. An explanation of these tax incentives is featured prominently on the ADA.gov website.

    “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that businesses and members of the public can easily understand their rights and obligations, including the tax incentives that are available to help businesses comply with the ADA,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mac Warner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Putting money back into the pockets of business owners helps everyone by allowing those businesses to pass on cost savings to consumers and bolster the economy.”

    The Department has identified the following 11 pieces of guidance for withdrawal:

    1. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Can a business stop me from bringing in my service animal because of the COVID-19 pandemic? (2021)
    2. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Does the Department of Justice issue exemptions from mask requirements? (2021)
    3. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Are there resources available that help explain my rights as an employee with a disability during the COVID-19 pandemic? (2021)
    4. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Can a hospital or medical facility exclude all “visitors” even where, due to a patient’s disability, the patient needs help from a family member, companion, or aide in order to equally access care? (2021)
    5. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Does the ADA apply to outdoor restaurants (sometimes called “streateries”) or other outdoor retail spaces that have popped up since COVID-19? (2021)
    6. Expanding Your Market: Maintaining Accessible Features in Retail Establishments (2009)
    7. Expanding Your Market: Gathering Input from Customers with Disabilities (2007)
    8. Expanding Your Market: Accessible Customer Service Practices for Hotel and Lodging Guests with Disabilities (2006)
    9. Reaching out to Customers with Disabilities (2005)
    10. Americans with Disabilities Act: Assistance at Self-Serve Gas Stations (1999)
    11. Five Steps to Make New Lodging Facilities Comply with the ADA (1999)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Actions to Combat Cost-of-Living Crisis, Including Rescinding 11 Pieces of Guidance

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    The Justice Department today announced that it is taking action in response to President Trump’s Presidential Memorandum “Delivering Emergency Price Relief for American Families and Defeating the Cost-of-Living Crisis.” First, the Department is withdrawing 11 pieces of guidance to streamline Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance resources for American businesses. Next, the Department is raising awareness about tax incentives for businesses related to their compliance with the ADA.

    The Jan. 20 Presidential Memorandum described the regulatory demands put in place by the prior administration and called on the heads of all executive departments and agencies to take appropriate actions to lower the cost of living throughout the country. Today’s withdrawal of 11 pieces of unnecessary and outdated guidance will aid businesses in complying with the ADA by eliminating unnecessary review and focusing only on current ADA guidance. Avoiding confusion and reducing the time spent understanding compliance may allow businesses to deliver price relief to consumers.

    In addition, to further the goals of the Presidential Memorandum and to aid businesses during tax season, the Department is highlighting tax incentives available for businesses to help cover the costs of making access improvements for customers or employees with disabilities. The Department expects that small businesses will find this reminder helpful in reducing costs, especially as they prepare their tax filings. An explanation of these tax incentives is featured prominently on the ADA.gov website.

    “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that businesses and members of the public can easily understand their rights and obligations, including the tax incentives that are available to help businesses comply with the ADA,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mac Warner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Putting money back into the pockets of business owners helps everyone by allowing those businesses to pass on cost savings to consumers and bolster the economy.”

    The Department has identified the following 11 pieces of guidance for withdrawal:

    1. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Can a business stop me from bringing in my service animal because of the COVID-19 pandemic? (2021)
    2. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Does the Department of Justice issue exemptions from mask requirements? (2021)
    3. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Are there resources available that help explain my rights as an employee with a disability during the COVID-19 pandemic? (2021)
    4. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Can a hospital or medical facility exclude all “visitors” even where, due to a patient’s disability, the patient needs help from a family member, companion, or aide in order to equally access care? (2021)
    5. COVID-19 and the Americans with Disabilities Act: Does the ADA apply to outdoor restaurants (sometimes called “streateries”) or other outdoor retail spaces that have popped up since COVID-19? (2021)
    6. Expanding Your Market: Maintaining Accessible Features in Retail Establishments (2009)
    7. Expanding Your Market: Gathering Input from Customers with Disabilities (2007)
    8. Expanding Your Market: Accessible Customer Service Practices for Hotel and Lodging Guests with Disabilities (2006)
    9. Reaching out to Customers with Disabilities (2005)
    10. Americans with Disabilities Act: Assistance at Self-Serve Gas Stations (1999)
    11. Five Steps to Make New Lodging Facilities Comply with the ADA (1999)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Statement on UK-Philippines JETCO

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Joint Statement on UK-Philippines JETCO

    On Monday 17 March, the UK and the Philippines held the inaugural Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting.

    Joint Statement on UK-Philippines Joint Economic and Trade Committee

    On Monday 17 March, the UK and the Philippines held the inaugural Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting.

    The Ministerial JETCO reflects a commitment from both governments to upgrade the growing bilateral economic relationship between both countries, including by exploring ways to boost trade and investment, as well as addressing barriers to market access.

    The committee was hosted in London by UK Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, Douglas Alexander MP, and co-chaired by Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty of the Philippines Department of Trade and Industry.

    Minister Alexander and Undersecretary Gepty endorsed a programme of work to advance bilateral cooperation over the next 12-18 months, including government-to-government and government-to-business activity in agreed priority areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy, economic development, life sciences, and technology.

    Much of this work will be delivered through four Sectoral Working Groups, which will meet annually to facilitate technical policy exchange and project delivery.

    Infrastructure

    The UK and the Philippines committed to progressing a government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership to support the delivery of national priority infrastructure and development programmes and projects in the Philippines.

    The Framework aims to expand access to £5 billion of financing from UK Export Finance (UKEF) and other sources of cooperation, and provide the Philippines with new paths to UK expertise, technology, and comparative advantage.

    Both countries agreed to develop a project pipeline through the Infrastructure Sectoral Working Group in anticipation of the establishment of the Framework.

    Energy

    The UK and the Philippines reflected on the extensive cooperation in the last year between the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the Philippines Department of Energy, and the UK Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, supporting the offshore wind development of the Philippines.

    Both countries emphasised the importance of the sector, recognising its contribution to economic growth and an inclusive green transition and committed to continue working closely on policy and regulatory engagement in the coming year, driven by cooperation at the Energy Sectoral Working Group.

    Agriculture

    Minister Alexander and Undersecretary Gepty discussed the benefits of collaboration between the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Philippines Department of Agriculture with a view to safeguarding and expanding market access for agri-food exporters.

    They agreed to continue collaboration across issues such as animal disease detection and antimicrobial resistance as well as new opportunities for collaboration on precision breeding and genetics.

    They endorsed the role of the Agriculture Sectoral Working Group to drive greater trade and investment in our respective agriculture sectors, including by promoting commercial agriculture opportunities in the Philippines and the UK.

    Economic Development

    Minister Alexander and Undersecretary Gepty recognised the important role of bilateral trade in furthering economic development in the Philippines and endorsed efforts to improve utilisation of the Developing Countries Trading Scheme, which offers Philippine exporters tariff-free access on 92% of products.

    They were pleased to note the upcoming launch of an export handbook that details key regulatory compliance requirements, including how to leverage the UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme to benefit from preferential tariff rates.

    They agreed on activities to further strengthen the business landscape in the Philippines and facilitate investment and digitalisation of trade.

    This covers continuing collaboration on regulatory reform initiatives, facilitating business linkages, and capacity building on AI policy frameworks and governance.

    Regional collaboration

    Minister Alexander and Undersecretary Gepty used the JETCO meeting to discuss the importance of cooperation between the UK and the Philippines in support of regional economic integration.

    The UK looks forward to deepening the UK-ASEAN Partnership and working with the Philippines towards its Chairship of ASEAN in 2026.

    Trade promotion and investment

    Minister Alexander and Undersecretary Gepty concluded discussions by acknowledging the potential for future economic growth and shared prosperity through deepening trade links.

    They acknowledged that in 2024, the UK was the largest single investor in the Philippines, driven by investments in renewables.

    The Philippines, being one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia last year with around 6% growth, has the capacity to boost trade in sectors where the UK holds significant commercial expertise.

    Minister Alexander and Undersecretary Gepty emphasised the importance of delivering real impact from strengthened trade and economic discussions.

    They encouraged future trade promotion and investment activities to facilitate more business opportunities in sectors such as technology and infrastructure including energy.

    After the JETCO meeting, UK Trade Envoy to the Philippines, George Freeman MP, and Undersecretary Gepty, co-hosted a business briefing in partnership with the UK-ASEAN Business Council to share insights from discussions and seek industry views on priorities for growing the bilateral trade and investment relationship.

    Bilateral economic relationship

    The Philippines was the UK’s 60th largest trading partner in the end of Q3 2024 accounting for 0.2% of total UK trade.

    Total trade in goods and services between the UK and the Philippines in the same period was £2.8 billion.  

    The new UK-Philippines JETCO adds extra emphasis to the UK’s deepening relationships across the wider Asia Pacific region.

    As an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, the UK is committed to further enhancing engagement with the region, through both multilateral and bilateral forums, including those with the Philippines.

    The JETCO follows the launch of the UK-Philippines Joint Framework for the Enhanced Partnership – an enhancement of our bilateral relations across foreign policy, economic growth, security and defence cooperation amongst other areas.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: NVIDIA and xAI join AI Infrastructure Partnership to drive investment in datacenters

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: NVIDIA and xAI join AI Infrastructure Partnership to drive investment in datacenters

    NEW YORK & REDMOND, Wash. & ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates & SANTA CLARA, Calif. & SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–BlackRock, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a part of BlackRock, Microsoft, and MGX today announced that NVIDIA and xAI will join the Global AI Infrastructure Investment Partnership, now named the AI Infrastructure Partnership (AIP), further strengthening the partnership’s technology leadership as the platform seeks to invest in new and expanded AI infrastructure. NVIDIA will also continue in its role as a technical advisor to AIP, leveraging its expertise in accelerated computing and AI factories to inform the deployment of next-generation AI data center infrastructure.

    Additionally, GE Vernova and NextEra Energy have agreed to collaborate with AIP to accelerate the scaling of critical and diverse energy solutions for AI data centers. GE Vernova will also work with AIP and its partners on supply chain planning and in delivering innovative and high efficiency energy solutions.

    AIP has attracted significant capital and partner interest since its inception in September 2024, highlighting the growing demand for AI-ready data centers and power solutions. The partnership will initially seek to unlock $30 billion in capital from investors, asset owners, and corporations, which in turn will mobilize up to $100 billion in total investment potential when including debt financing.

    By investing in next-generation AI data centers and energy infrastructure, AIP is not just expanding capacity—it is shaping the future of AI-driven economic growth. The addition of both NVIDIA and xAI, each a global AI technology leader, reinforces AIP’s commitment to scaling an open-architecture platform and fostering a broad ecosystem that supports a diverse range of partners on a non-exclusive basis. AIP’s investments will primarily focus on the U.S. as well as OECD and U.S. partner countries, driving AI innovation, economic expansion, and the advancement of critical digital and energy infrastructure.

    His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of MGX, said, “Artificial Intelligence is not just an industry of the future, it underpins the future. As we welcome new partners to the AI Infrastructure Partnership, we will accelerate innovation and technological breakthroughs to achieve transformational productivity gains across the global economy. Our singular focus is accelerating AI’s responsible and inclusive development for the benefit of humanity.”

    Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, said, “The global buildout of AI infrastructure will benefit every company and country that wants to achieve economic growth and unlock solutions to the world’s greatest challenges. AI factories built on NVIDIA’s full-stack AI infrastructure will convert data into intelligence that will accelerate every industry and help society achieve unimaginable breakthroughs.”

    “AI infrastructure will play an increasingly critical role in driving economic growth across every industry and every region of the world,” said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, Microsoft. “We’re thrilled to welcome these new companies to the AI Infrastructure Partnership as we invest together to build the infrastructure of the future.”

    Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, said, “AI has the potential to transform the global economy if we can build the necessary infrastructure to support it. We believe this unparalleled partnership of leading global companies across the AI ecosystem brings technology expertise together with private capital to meet this demand and creates unique investment opportunities for our clients. This partnership also demonstrates the powerful combination of BlackRock’s global relationships with GIP’s infrastructure capabilities.”

    “Since we launched this partnership in September, the momentum we have achieved reinforces the need for significant private capital to fund investments in essential infrastructure, particularly to support the continued development of AI,” said Bayo Ogunlesi, Chairman and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners. “With today’s announcement, we are proud to welcome our new partners to AIP. Together, we look forward to focusing on our joint ambition to enhance AI innovation and economic growth.”

    John Ketchum, Chairman and CEO of NextEra Energy, said, “In order to realize the full potential of Artificial Intelligence we must develop and support the energy infrastructure and data centers that will fuel this technology. Doing this will require an all forms of energy solution that leverages ready-now renewables and battery storage coupled with gas-fired and nuclear generation in the future. Our collaboration with GE Vernova and AIP is intended to get as many electrons onto the grid as quickly and most cost effectively as possible.”

    “The jobs and economies of tomorrow will be built on the infrastructure we develop today to support the rapid growth of AI,” said GE Vernova CEO Scott Strazik. “Our company is focused on an all-of-the-above approach with our customers to meet this unprecedented demand, utilizing gas, nuclear, wind and more, while continuing to drive innovation to reduce emissions. We look forward to working with AIP and its partners, a group that brings substantial capability and efficiency to this critical work.”

    About MGX

    MGX is a technology investment company focused on accelerating the development and adoption of AI and advanced technologies through world-leading partnerships in the United Arab Emirates and globally. MGX invests in sectors where AI can deliver value and economic impact at scale, including semiconductors, infrastructure, software, tech-enabled services, life sciences, and automation. For more information, visit www.mgx.ae.

    About BlackRock

    BlackRock’s purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate.

    About Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a Part of BlackRock

    Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) is a leading infrastructure investor that specializes in investing in, owning and operating some of the largest and most complex assets across the energy, transport, digital infrastructure and water and waste management sectors. On October 1, 2024, BlackRock closed its acquisition of GIP. For more information, visit www.global-infra.com.

    About Microsoft

    Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release, and other statements that the parties may make, may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, with respect to the parties’ or AIP’s future financial or business performance, strategies or expectations, including the anticipated timing, consummation and expected benefits of AIP. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as “trend,” “potential,” “opportunity,” “pipeline,” “believe,” “comfortable,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “current,” “intention,” “estimate,” “position,” “assume,” “outlook,” “continue,” “remain,” “maintain,” “sustain,” “seek,” “achieve,” and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” and similar expressions.

    The parties caution that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time and may contain information that is not purely historical in nature. Such information may include, among other things, projections and forecasts. There is no guarantee that any projections or forecasts made will come to pass. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the parties assume no duty to and do not undertake to update forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance.

    Certain of the parties have previously disclosed risk factors in their respective United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) reports. These risk factors and those identified elsewhere in this release, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance. Such parties’ Annual Reports on Form 10–K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and subsequent filings with the SEC, accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the applicable party’s website, discuss certain of these factors in more detail and identify additional factors that can affect forward–looking statements. The information contained on each party’s website is not a part of this press release, and therefore, is not incorporated herein by reference.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ministerial meeting stresses need for strengthened international cooperation to accelerate just and inclusive energy transition for all in the Global South

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Access to electricity worldwide has increased steadily since the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, to reach 90.7% of the world’s population in 2023 (up from 84.5% in 2015) while the world’s population rose from 7.44bn to 8.06bn in 2023. 

    Hundreds of millions of people have gained access to electricity, enjoying a better life through better access to education, health, business opportunities, mobility, etc. However, some 750 million people, with 600 million in sub-Saharan Africa, still lack access.  

    28 Ministers from Africa, Asis and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, met last week at two Ministerial gatherings at the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Global Forum in Bridgetown, Barbados, to advance climate resilience for populations in the Global South. 

    In their Communiqué, Ministers underscored the importance of enhanced global cooperation to support the growing energy needs in developing countries while addressing climate vulnerability.  

    The Communiqué also stresses the role of regional cooperation frameworks and reiterates commitments from the Dar es Salaam Declaration (January 2025) and highlights initiatives such as Mission 300 (M300), aiming to provide electricity access to 300 million people in Africa by 2030.   

    UNFC and UNRMS: supporting sustainable and just energy transitions 

    The Communiqué references the UN Framework Classification for Resources and the UN Resources Management System – endorsed by ECOSOC – as vital mechanisms to help countries translate their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) commitments under the Paris Agreement into action.   

    UNFC and UNRMS are key tools in managing critical raw materials, promoting circular economy practices, and aligning financing strategies with national energy transition plans.  

    UNFC and UNRMS offer countries methodologies to encompass social and equity dimensions, including youth participation and workforce development, into energy transition plans, ensuring intergenerational equity and sustainable financing models. 

    By advocating for stronger policies, inclusive decision-making, and sustainable financing, UNECE’s energy work supports equitable and resilient energy transitions. 

    The dialogue on just and inclusive energy transitions will continue during the 20th session of the Group of Experts on Coal Mine Methane and Just Transition (CMMJT), where experts will further discuss pathways to strengthen international cooperation in support of a fair and sustainable transition. 

    The press release is available here. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BYD’s fast-charging tech ignites influencer buzz, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    BYD Co Ltd (BYD) has become a trending company among social media influencers on the third week of March 2025, driven by the unveiling of its new electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging technology. The announcement, boasting the capability to charge a vehicle for approximately 400+ kilometers in just five minutes, has sparked significant interest. Influencers are actively discussing the potential implications of this technological advancement, particularly in the context of the EV market and BYD’s growing influence, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Shreyasee Majumder, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Influencers are expressing optimism, fueled by the potential of the fast-charging technology to revolutionize EV adoption. The ability to charge an EV nearly as quickly as refueling a gasoline car is viewed as a pivotal development that could address a major barrier for potential EV buyers. Several influencers highlight the convenience and practicality this technology could bring to EV ownership, making it a more attractive alternative to traditional vehicles.”

    Below are a few popular influencer opinions captured by GlobalData’s Social Media Analytics Platform:

    1. Assaad Razzouk, Chief Executive Officer at Gurīn Energy:

    “Tesla who? BYD just unveiled new EV tech to charge a vehicle enough for 400km in just 5 minutes. 5 minutes! More evidence that China is the decisive leader of the world in clean tech innovation – by some distance.”

    1. Kim, Technology Expert:

    “EV: charging 100km in 2 seconds! BYD Breakthrough How comes that every big news is now from China? BYD unveils battery system that charges EVs in five minutes This is a huge breakthrough. And should it prove to be true, it would be a huge step forward. Robotics would also benefit massively from it. “BYD’s new EV platform will allow cars to reach a speed of 100 kilometers per hour in 2 seconds, Wang said at the event at the carmaker’s headquarters in Shenzhen.”

    1. Glen Gilmore, Founder at Gilmore Business Network:

    “China takes another tech win: Chinese automaker BYD shows off new battery and charging system capable of providing 470 kilometers (292 miles) of range in 5 minutes…”

    1. Dan Primack, Business Editor at Axios:

    “This could be an EV game changer: BYD unveils a new system for electric cars that the Chinese automaker says will allow them to charge almost as fast as it takes a regular car to refuel”

    1. James DePorre, CEO at Shark Investing:

    “$TSLA BYD Co. unveiled a new system for electric cars that the Chinese automaker says will allow them to charge almost as fast as it takes a regular car to refuel. BYD’s new battery and charging system was capable of providing 470 kilometers (292 miles) of range in 5 minutes in tests on its new Han L sedan, Chairman and founder Wang Chuanfu said Monday. The manufacturer will start selling vehicles with the new technology next month. Being able to charge a car in the time it takes a combustion engine vehicle to pull in and out of a gas station could convince drivers who aren’t willing to make lengthy stops to go electric.”

    1. Dirk Harbecke, Chairman of Rock Tech Lithium Inc:

    “Chinese #EV giant BYD achieves petrol-like 470km in 5 minutes charging. China expected to add >460,000 EV chargers this year. BYD looking for further plant locations in Europe. Plant constructions in #Hungary and #Turkey ongoing. Tough for EU car makers.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: REPORT: Energy Storage’s Meteoric Rise Breaks Another Record

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: REPORT: Energy Storage’s Meteoric Rise Breaks Another Record

    • Annual energy storage installations increase 33% YoY • Residential installations hit new record for second straight quarter • 2025 installations projected to increase 25% 

    HOUSTON/WASHINGTON, D.C., March 19, 2025 — The U.S. energy storage market set a new record in 2024 with 12.3 gigawatts (GW) of installations across all segments, according to the latest U.S. Energy Storage Monitor report released today by the American Clean Power Association (ACP) and Wood Mackenzie.  
    The report shows a total of 12,314 megawatts (MW) and 37,143 megawatt hours (MWh) deployed, representing increases of 33% and 34% respectively over 2023 numbers. 
    Record Growth for Grid-Scale Storage While Q4 grid-scale energy storage deployments were down 20% compared to Q4 2023, this was primarily due to the delay of 2 GW of projects in late-stage development from Q4 2024 to 2025.  
    Texas and California continue to lead the market, with 61% of the total installed capacity in Q4, while the remaining 39% was installed across 13 states, expanding storage deployment beyond the leading markets. Grid-scale storage installations are forecasted to reach 13.3 GW in 2025. 
    “After another year of record deployment, energy storage is solidifying its place as a leading solution for strengthening American energy security and grid reliability in a time of historic rising demand for electricity,” said ACP VP of Energy Storage Noah Roberts. “The energy storage industry has quickly scaled to meet the moment and deliver reliability and cost-savings for American communities, serving a critical role firming and balancing low-cost renewables and enhancing the efficiency of thermal power plants.”  
    “Energy storage has entered a new phase of growth with its first year of double-digit deployment. We are increasingly seeing the industry’s growth diversified across geographic regions, with 30% of storage capacity additions in Q4 2024 represented by New Mexico, Oregon, and Arizona,” said Kelsey Hallahan, ACP Sr. Director of Market Intelligence. “With a robust pipeline, and forecasted sustained growth, the industry is on a path to surpass 100 GW of grid-scale storage deployed by 2030.” 
    Residential and CCI See Strong Year The residential storage market exceeded 1,250 MW in 2024, marking its highest year on record and 57% above 2023 totals. A record-breaking 380 MW of residential storage was installed in Q4 2024, a 6% increase over the previous quarter.  
    145 MW of community-scale, commercial and industrial (CCI) storage was installed in 2024, a 22% increase over the previous year. California, Massachusetts, and New York accounted for 88% of installed CCI capacity. 
    2025 Forecast Sees Continued Growth Forecasted installations for 2025 have increased 7% over last quarter’s forecast. Across all segments, 15 GW of storage is expected to be installed this year, marking a 25% increase over 2024. 
    “Activity has been strong and our forecast for this year has expanded,” said Allison Feeney, research analyst at Wood Mackenzie. “However, due to policy uncertainties, growth will likely slow down this year and in subsequent years. Growth will pick back up toward the end of the decade, with a projected 81 GW total installations from 2025 to 2029.” 
    Allison Weis, global head of storage of Wood Mackenzie noted that the uncertainties surrounding the continuation of current tax incentives and the implementation of tariffs could change the long-term outlook. 
    “It’s still too early to determine the final form of IRA tax incentives over the coming year,” said Allison Weis, global head of storage for Wood Mackenzie. “The combination of new tariffs on China and other countries with continued 45x and domestic content bonus adder incentives would make US-based systems more competitively priced. However, many domestic providers are not set up to meet quick demand. If higher pricing is combined with ITC tax incentives phasing out beginning in 2028, it could lower our five-year deployment outlook by as much as 19%.” 

    ### 
    For further information, contact: 
    Wood Mackenzie’s media relations team: 
    Mark Thomton +1 630 881 6885  Mark.thomton@woodmac.com  
      Hla Myat Mon+65 8533 8860   hla.myatmon@woodmac.com   
      The Big Partnership (UK PR agency) woodmac@bigpartnership.co.uk    
    About Wood Mackenzie  Wood Mackenzie is the global insight business for renewables, energy and natural resources. Driven by data. Powered by people. In the middle of an energy revolution, businesses and governments need reliable and actionable insight to lead the transition to a sustainable future. That’s why we cover the entire supply chain with unparalleled breadth and depth, backed by over 50 years’ experience in natural resources. Today, our team of over 2,000 experts operate across 30 global locations, inspiring customers’ decisions through real-time analytics, consultancy, events and thought leadership. Together, we deliver the insight they need to separate risk from opportunity and make bold decisions when it matters most. For more information, visit woodmac.com.  

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EIA forecasts Alaska crude oil production will grow in 2026 for the first time since 2017

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    March 19, 2025

    In our March 2025 Short-Term Energy Outlook, we forecast crude oil production in Alaska will increase by 16,000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2026 to 438,000 b/d after remaining relatively flat in 2025. Two new oil developments in Alaska—the Nuna and Pikka projects—are expected to boost crude oil production in the state after decades of decline. If realized, this annual production increase will be the first since 2017 and the largest since 2002.

    Average annual crude oil production in Alaska peaked at 2.0 million b/d in 1988, and production has since fallen largely because of the production decline of mature oil fields, limited lease availability, and high exploration and production costs.

    ConocoPhillips produced first oil from the Nuna project in December 2024. We forecast annual crude oil production in Alaska to average 422,000 b/d in 2025, an annual increase of 1,000 b/d, compared with the previous five-year (2020–24) average annual decline of 9,000 b/d. The decline in existing well production is offset by the added production from the Nuna project on the North Slope. ConocoPhillips expects the Nuna project’s 29 wells will produce a combined 20,000 b/d of oil at its peak.

    Additional production from the Phase 1 of the Pikka development project on the North Slope drives the forecast increased production in 2026. The Pikka project, which is jointly owned by Santos and Repsol, is one of the most significant oil developments in Alaska in recent years. At the project’s peak, the companies plan to produce 80,000 b/d from 45 wells.

    The projects would be among the most productive wells in Alaska if they come online as the companies are currently planning. Our annual U.S. Oil and Natural Gas Wells by Production Rate report details state-level distributions of active production. The production profile for Alaska in 2023 records 2,340 active wells, 65% of which produce more than 100 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/d).

    The production estimates from the Nuna and Pikka wells reported by the companies fall on the high side of the 2023 Alaskan active well distribution. As of 2023, the highest concentration of active Alaskan wells was between 100 BOE/d and 200 BOE/d. The reported production rates show these upcoming projects to be at the production brackets of 400 BOE/d–799 BOE/d and 1,600 BOE/d–3,199 BOE/d, respectively.

    Although both onshore and offshore drilling occur in Alaska, most of the activity is on land, particularly in the North Slope, which is where the Nuna and Pikka projects are being developed.

    As of December 2024, 22% of the wells for the Nuna and Pikka projects have been drilled, according to company reports and the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. The companies plan to drill an additional 58 wells by 2028, which would support relatively high rig activity.

    The increased crude oil production will go to supply refineries in Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and California.

    Principal contributors: Merek Roman, Trinity Manning-Pickett

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Expansion in Nickel Mining Market Thriving from Heightened Demand Around the Globe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – According to a report from Grand View Research, the nickel mining industry worldwide is expected to reach a projected revenue of US$83.813 Billion by 2030. A compound annual growth rate of 6.6% is expected of the worldwide nickel mining industry from 2023 to 2030.Growth in end-use industries such as construction, consumer durables, and machinery & equipment are propelling the growth of the stainless steel industry. Nickel is one of the key raw materials of stainless steel. Hence, development in the stainless steel industry is contributing to the growth of the market. According to the Nickel Institute, over two-thirds of the world’s nickel is utilized in the production of stainless steel. It acts as an alloying agent, enhancing essential properties such as formability, ductility, and weldability while also increasing corrosion resistance for specific applications. Another Grand View Research report said: “The nickel mining industry is highly competitive and to gain an edge, major players are acquiring their competitors. The batteries segment is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 7.2% in terms of revenue, over the forecast period (2030). Nickel batteries offer a cost-effective solution for achieving higher energy density and storage capabilities.” Active Companies in the market today include: First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (OTCQB: FANCF) (TSX-V: FAN), Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP), First Hydrogen Corp. (OTCPK: FHYDF) (TSX-V: FHYD), Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE: BE), FuelCell Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCEL).

    Grand View Research continued: “Based on region, Asia Pacific held the largest revenue share of over 57.0% in 2022. The growth in various industries, such as battery manufacturing, automotive & defense, and petrochemicals, is increasing the demand for nickel, which is positively influencing its mining activity. The Russia-Ukraine war has benefitted the Philippines’ nickel industry, as Russia’s output has been declining in the past few years coupled with the aversion it is receiving in trade. Europe is anticipated to register a CAGR of 7.8% in terms of revenue over the forecast period (2030). The EU has recognized the importance of nickel in the energy transition and has added it to the list of critical minerals. To ensure a diversified supply chain, the EU has set benchmarks for the extraction of at least 10% of the annual consumption of nickel within the boundary of Europe. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the mining activity in the region. North America is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 8.1% over the forecast period (2030). The increasing demand for nickel-based products in aerospace and defense industries has raised its significance as a critical mineral. In addition, the growing emphasis on accomplishing a domestic supply chain for the EV battery segment is anticipated to boost production in the region.”

    First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (OTCQB: FANCF) (TSX-V: FAN) AND COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES LAUNCH RESEARCH PARTNERSHIP TO EXPLORE GEOLOGIC HYDROGEN POTENTIAL IN NEWFOUNDLAND OPHIOLITES – First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (FSE: P21) (“First Atlantic” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce a strategic research partnership with Colorado School of Mines to explore geologic hydrogen as an energy source. This collaboration will focus on two significant ophiolite complexes in Newfoundland, Canada: the St. Anthony Ophiolite Complex (Atlantis Project, 103 km²) and the Pipestone Ophiolite Complex (Atlantic Nickel Project, 71 km²). Both projects are 100% owned by First Atlantic and encompass extensive ultramafic rock formations, characterized by awaruite-bearing serpentinized peridotites, which are key indicators of geologic hydrogen.

    First Atlantic Nickel is primarily focused on exploring awaruite nickel-iron alloy mineralization. Additionally, it is partnering with Colorado School of Mines to conduct secondary research on geological hydrogen produced during serpentinization. This collaborative research will leverage data collected by First Atlantic during its ongoing exploration for awaruite nickel deposits. Notably, awaruite serves as an indicator mineral of geologic hydrogen within serpentinized peridotites found in ophiolites. Colorado School of Mines will carry out this hydrogen research component, enhancing the overall exploration program while leveraging First Atlantic’s extensive geological assets and expertise.

    Geologic Hydrogen: Ophiolites and Peridotite

    Ophiolites—sections of oceanic crust and upper mantle thrust onto continental crust—are globally recognized as prime sources of geologic hydrogen, often referred to as “white hydrogen” or “gold hydrogen.” These formations are dominated by ultramafic rocks, notably peridotite, which consists primarily of olivine and pyroxene minerals rich in nickel, chromium, magnesium, and iron. When peridotite interacts with water, it triggers serpentinization—a hydrothermal reaction in which iron oxidizes and water is reduced, releasing molecular hydrogen gas (H₂). This natural process can be represented by the equation:

    3FeO (in olivine) + H₂O → Fe₃O₄ (magnetite) + H₂ – During serpentinization, awaruite (Ni₃Fe) forms as a secondary mineral when liberated nickel (Ni2+) and iron (Fe2+) from the olivine, pyroxene, and chromite minerals react with the abundant hydrogen (H2) present. This natural process can be represented by the equation:

    3(Ni²⁺) + (Fe²⁺) + 4(H₂) → (Ni₃Fe) + 8(H⁺) – The formation of awaruite could not happen without the presence of hydrogen. This process occurs readily in ophiolitic peridotites at depth, where water saturated rocks in oxygen-poor, reducing conditions produce this exothermic reaction, generating heat that sustains further reactions. According to the Geological Survey of Finland, “In Europe and in regions outside the crystal shield, only ophiolites are often referred to as a source of geological hydrogen.” Within these ophiolite settings, serpentinized peridotites are the most promising targets, with peridotites producing significantly more hydrogen than other rocks, up to 4 kg per cubic meter. Ophiolites represent large potential sources of geologic hydrogen, with some of the most significant global geologic hydrogen discoveries occurring in ophiolites.

    “Geologic hydrogen systems are a combination of mineral systems and natural gas systems. In our group, we have the unique combination of expertise from both the mining industry and oil and gas industry to advance geologic hydrogen exploration and stimulated hydrogen monitoring,” said Dr. Yaoguo Li from Colorado School of Mines. CONTINUED… Read this and more news for First Atlantic Nickel at: https://www.fanickel.com/archive

    In other market news of interest:

    Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP) recently announced a multi-year supply agreement from Manufacturing Commercial Vehicles (‘MCV’, www.mcv-eg.com), a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer based in Egypt, for fuel cell engines totaling approximately 5 MW.

    The supply agreement for 50 FCmove®-HD+ engines, and initial order of 35 units, represents the continued growth of the relationship with MCV which started in 2022 with fuel cell engine integration support and the first fuel cell engine order placed in 2023. Deliveries of the 50 engines are expected between 2025 and 2026 and will initially support projects in the EU.

    First Hydrogen Corp. (TSXV: FHYD) (OTCPK: FHYDF) recently announced the launch of its subsidiary, First Nuclear Corp., an initiative dedicated to advancing clean energy through the innovative use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). First Nuclear Corp. (“First Nuclear”) aims to revolutionize green hydrogen production, supporting global decarbonization efforts and paving the way for a sustainable, zero-emission future.

    Harnessing the Power of SMRs for Green Hydrogen – First Nuclear seeks to integrate advanced nuclear technology with green hydrogen production. SMRs, known for their compact design, scalability, and ability to provide a continuous, weather-independent power supply, are the cornerstone of this initiative. By leveraging SMRs, First Nuclear ensures a stable, cost-effective, and efficient process for producing green hydrogen, addressing the growing demand for clean energy solutions worldwide. IDTechEx anticipates the installation rate of SMRs to grow significantly addressing the climate crisis. They project the global market for SMRs to reach US$72.4 billion by 2033 and US$295 billion by 2043, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30%.

    Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE: BE), a global leader in power solutions, announced recently an expansion of its longstanding relationship with Equinix, the world’s digital infrastructure company®. The collaboration now exceeds 100MW of electricity capacity to support Equinix’s International Business Exchange™ (IBX®) data centers across the United States.

    With approximately 75MW already operational and another 30MW under construction, this latest expansion marks a significant milestone in the companies’ decade-long collaboration. What began as a pilot program in 2015 with just 1MW of fuel cells at a single IBX data center in Silicon Valley has scaled one hundredfold, supporting the critical digital infrastructure needed to meet increasing energy needs of AI-driven computing.

    FuelCell Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCEL) and Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Sdn Bhd (MMHE), a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Holdings Berhad (MHB), have announced the signing of a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to co-develop large-scale hydrogen production systems and technologies across Asia, New Zealand, and Australia.

    Building on a memorandum of understanding signed in February 2023, the JDA represents a pivotal step for the two companies, driven by a shared vision to make clean hydrogen production easily accessible and viable. The collaboration underscores FuelCell Energy and MHB’s commitment to advancing green energy solutions and supporting global decarbonization and energy transition goals.

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    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated thirty four hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by First Atlantic Nickel Corp. by a non-affiliated third party. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Interest in Nickel Mining Booming as Demand Skyrockets Around the World

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – According to a report from Grand View Research, the global nickel mining market size was estimated at USD 50.40 billion in 2022 and is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% from 2023 to 2030. Growth in end-use industries such as construction, consumer durables, and machinery & equipment are propelling the growth of the stainless steel industry. Nickel is one of the key raw materials of stainless steel. Hence, development in the stainless steel industry is contributing to the growth of the market. According to the Nickel Institute, over two-thirds of the world’s nickel is utilized in the production of stainless steel. It acts as an alloying agent, enhancing essential properties such as formability, ductility, and weldability while also increasing corrosion resistance for specific applications. The report said: “The nickel mining industry is highly competitive and to gain an edge, major players are acquiring their competitors.   The batteries segment is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 7.2% in terms of revenue, over the forecast period (2030). Nickel batteries offer a cost-effective solution for achieving higher energy density and storage capabilities.” Active Companies in the markets today include: First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (OTCQB: FANCF) (TSX-V: FAN), Vale S.A. (NYSE: VALE), Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), Glencore plc (OTCPK: GLNCY) (OTCPK: GLCNF), Quebec Innovative Materials Corp. (OTCQB: QIMCF) (CSE: QIMC).

    Grand View Research continued: “Based on region, Asia Pacific held the largest revenue share of over 57.0% in 2022. The growth in various industries, such as battery manufacturing, automotive & defense, and petrochemicals, is increasing the demand for nickel, which is positively influencing its mining activity. The Russia-Ukraine war has benefitted the Philippines’ nickel industry, as Russia’s output has been declining in the past few years coupled with the aversion it is receiving in trade.   Europe is anticipated to register a CAGR of 7.8% in terms of revenue over the forecast period (2030). The EU has recognized the importance of nickel in the energy transition and has added it to the list of critical minerals. To ensure a diversified supply chain, the EU has set benchmarks for the extraction of at least 10% of the annual consumption of nickel within the boundary of Europe. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the mining activity in the region.   North America is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR of 8.1% over the forecast period (2030). The increasing demand for nickel-based products in aerospace and defense industries has raised its significance as a critical mineral.   In addition, the growing emphasis on accomplishing a domestic supply chain for the EV battery segment is anticipated to boost production in the region.”

    First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (OTCQB: FANCF) (TSX-V: FAN) AND COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES LAUNCH RESEARCH PARTNERSHIP TO EXPLORE GEOLOGIC HYDROGEN POTENTIAL IN NEWFOUNDLAND OPHIOLITES – First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (FSE: P21) (“First Atlantic” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce a strategic research partnership with Colorado School of Mines to explore geologic hydrogen as an energy source. This collaboration will focus on two significant ophiolite complexes in Newfoundland, Canada: the St. Anthony Ophiolite Complex (Atlantis Project, 103 km²) and the Pipestone Ophiolite Complex (Atlantic Nickel Project, 71 km²). Both projects are 100% owned by First Atlantic and encompass extensive ultramafic rock formations, characterized by awaruite-bearing serpentinized peridotites, which are key indicators of geologic hydrogen.

    First Atlantic Nickel is primarily focused on exploring awaruite nickel-iron alloy mineralization. Additionally, it is partnering with Colorado School of Mines to conduct secondary research on geological hydrogen produced during serpentinization. This collaborative research will leverage data collected by First Atlantic during its ongoing exploration for awaruite nickel deposits. Notably, awaruite serves as an indicator mineral of geologic hydrogen within serpentinized peridotites found in ophiolites. Colorado School of Mines will carry out this hydrogen research component, enhancing the overall exploration program while leveraging First Atlantic’s extensive geological assets and expertise.

    Geologic Hydrogen: Ophiolites and Peridotite

    Ophiolites—sections of oceanic crust and upper mantle thrust onto continental crust—are globally recognized as prime sources of geologic hydrogen, often referred to as “white hydrogen” or “gold hydrogen.” These formations are dominated by ultramafic rocks, notably peridotite, which consists primarily of olivine and pyroxene minerals rich in nickel, chromium, magnesium, and iron. When peridotite interacts with water, it triggers serpentinization—a hydrothermal reaction in which iron oxidizes and water is reduced, releasing molecular hydrogen gas (H₂). This natural process can be represented by the equation:

    3FeO (in olivine) + H₂O → Fe₃O₄ (magnetite) + H₂ – During serpentinization, awaruite (Ni₃Fe) forms as a secondary mineral when liberated nickel (Ni2+) and iron (Fe2+) from the olivine, pyroxene, and chromite minerals react with the abundant hydrogen (H2) present. This natural process can be represented by the equation:

    3(Ni²⁺) + (Fe²⁺) + 4(H₂) → (Ni₃Fe) + 8(H⁺) – The formation of awaruite could not happen without the presence of hydrogen. This process occurs readily in ophiolitic peridotites at depth, where water saturated rocks in oxygen-poor, reducing conditions produce this exothermic reaction, generating heat that sustains further reactions. According to the Geological Survey of Finland, “In Europe and in regions outside the crystal shield, only ophiolites are often referred to as a source of geological hydrogen.” Within these ophiolite settings, serpentinized peridotites are the most promising targets, with peridotites producing significantly more hydrogen than other rocks, up to 4 kg per cubic meter. Ophiolites represent large potential sources of geologic hydrogen, with some of the most significant global geologic hydrogen discoveries occurring in ophiolites.

    “Geologic hydrogen systems are a combination of mineral systems and natural gas systems. In our group, we have the unique combination of expertise from both the mining industry and oil and gas industry to advance geologic hydrogen exploration and stimulated hydrogen monitoring” said Dr. Yaoguo Li from Colorado School of Mines. CONTINUED… Read this and more news for First Atlantic Nickel at:   https://www.fanickel.com/archive

    In other market news of interest:

    Vale S.A. (NYSE: VALE) noted the Company leads the production of nickel metal that is considered one of the most versatile. Hard but also malleable, it is corrosion resistant and retains its properties even when subjected to extreme temperatures. It is part of everyday life: it is used in the production of batteries and items ranging from coins to cars.

    Highlights: The ore obtained from our mines contains more than just nickel. Therefore, by extracting and processing it, we also produce cobalt, copper and precious metals. Where we operate: Brazil, Canada and Indonesia.

    Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX) recently announced senior leadership changes as part of the company’s efforts to simplify its organizational structure, execute faster and more effectively, and be positioned for stronger long-term competitiveness.   The company’s Oil, Products & Gas organization will be consolidated into two segments: Upstream and Downstream, Midstream & Chemicals. Mark Nelson will continue to lead this organization as vice chairman and executive vice president, Oil, Products & Gas.

    The Upstream organizational model will drive value through greater standardization across Shale & Tight, Base Assets & Emerging Countries, Offshore, Eurasia and Australia.

    Ceibo, a clean copper extraction technology company, and Glencore plc‘s (OTCPK: GLNCY) (OTCPK: GLCNF) Lomas Bayas Mining Company have recently entered into a partnership to deploy Ceibo’s proprietary leaching technologies that enable a more effective extraction of copper from low-grade sulfides at one of Chile’s leading mines. Lomas Bayas has validated Ceibo’s technology and is moving toward scaling up to assess this as an alternative to extend the life of their mining operations. This partnership follows two years of testing by Glencore, an important contributor to Chile’s position as the world’s largest copper producer.

    Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, Ceibo’s technology will scale up with on-site testing through the Lomas Lab, a Glencore world-scale test site, and the company’s research and development branch. This agreement opens a significant commercial avenue for Ceibo, demonstrating its unique approach with a major mining company and affirming the value that Ceibo’s advanced leaching technologies bring to copper assets globally.

    Quebec Innovative Materials Corp. (OTCQB: QIMCF) (CSE: QIMC) recently announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Black Tree Energy Group Sàrl (BTEG), a Swiss-based energy infrastructure and project development firm. This partnership reinforces QIMC’s strategic expansion into the U.S., a key market for accelerating the commercialization of natural hydrogen. Together, QIMC and BTEG will drive large-scale hydrogen projects by integrating technical expertise with financial strategy, project development, and execution capabilities.

    With strong support for clean natural hydrogen initiatives, the United States presents a substantial opportunity for natural hydrogen development. Through this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), QIMC intends to capitalize on its established expertise in natural renewable hydrogen—encompassing geological and geophysical analyses, project evaluation, and hydrogen fieldwork and drilling—to identify high-potential U.S. sites and accelerate the path to commercial production.

    About FN Media Group:

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    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels.  FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein.  FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.  FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.  The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material.  All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks.  All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release.  FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers.  Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks.  For current services performed FNM has been compensated thirty four hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by First Atlantic Nickel Corp. by a non-affiliated third party.  FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Apollo Funds to Acquire OEG, a Leading Provider of Core Services to the Offshore Energy Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON and NEW YORK, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) today announced that funds managed by Apollo affiliates (the “Apollo funds”) have agreed to acquire a majority stake in OEG Energy Group (“OEG” or the “Company”), a leading offshore energy solutions business, from funds managed by the Power Opportunities strategy of Oaktree Capital Management, LP (“Oaktree”) and other investors. The transaction implies a headline valuation of more than $1 billion for OEG, and Oaktree and others will retain a minority equity interest in the Company.

    OEG is a scaled provider of core services across the offshore energy ecosystem, delivering development and operations solutions to oil & gas (O&G) and wind end markets for more than 50 years. The Company owns and operates one of the world’s largest fleets of cargo carrying units (CCUs), with 75,000+ units, enabling the safe transportation of essential cargo to and from offshore energy installations. OEG’s Renewables segment is a global, integrated provider of key technical solutions and services to the offshore wind sector.

    John Heiton, CEO of OEG, said: “Since our company’s founding, we have worked hard to establish OEG as a global leader in delivering core services throughout the offshore energy value chain. As energy producers across Europe and around the globe continue to invest in energy transition, we are committed to expanding and enhancing our capabilities as a key partner. We look forward to working with Apollo as we enter this new and exciting chapter for our business and remain focused on supporting our customers with the same quality service they have come to expect.”

    Wilson Handler, Partner at Apollo, said: “John and team have built OEG into a global leader and trusted provider of offshore equipment and services, with an integrated business model that has scaled across cycles. We see a tremendous opportunity to invest in the Company’s future growth as secular tailwinds drive demand for services enabling efficient energy production and renewable power. Bringing to bear the scale of Apollo’s integrated platform and deep expertise in energy services, we look forward to working with the talented team at OEG to unlock value for its various stakeholders and loyal customer base via organic and inorganic channels.”

    Francesco Giuliani, Managing Director and Assistant Portfolio Manager in Oaktree’s Power Opportunities strategy, said: “We are proud of our partnership with the management team at OEG and the success achieved during Oaktree’s period of ownership. During that time, increased focus on the energy transition and global supply dynamics has made investment for core energy infrastructure even more important. We continue to have strong conviction in OEG’s growth trajectory and are thrilled to maintain a minority interest alongside Apollo funds.”

    Over the past five years, Apollo-managed funds and affiliates have committed, deployed, or arranged approximately $58 billioni of climate and energy transition-related investments, supporting companies and projects across clean energy and infrastructure.

    The transaction is subject to satisfaction of certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in Q2 2025.

    Banco Santander SA acted as financial advisor and Vinson & Elkins LLP served as legal counsel to the Apollo funds on the transaction.

    Goldman Sachs International acted as financial adviser to Oaktree, while Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP (corporate) and Latham & Watkins (financing & antitrust) served as legal advisers.

    White & Case LLP served as legal counsel to OEG management.

    ___________________

    i As of December 31, 2024. The firmwide targets (the “Targets”) to deploy, commit, or arrange capital commensurate with Apollo’s proprietary Climate and Transition Investment Framework (the “CTIF”), are (1) $50 billion by 2027 and (2) more than $100 billion by 2030. The CTIF, which is subject to change at any time without notice, sets forth certain activities classified by Apollo as sustainable economic activities (“SEAs”), and the methodologies used to calculate contribution towards the Targets. Only investments determined to be currently contributing to an SEA in accordance with the CTIF are counted toward the Targets. Under the CTIF, Apollo uses different calculation methodologies for different types of investments in equity, debt and real estate. For additional details on the CTIF, please refer to our website here: https://www.apollo.com/strategies/asset-management/real-assets/sustainable-investing-platform.

    About Apollo

    Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of December 31, 2024, Apollo had approximately $751 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

    About OEG Energy Group

    OEG is a leading offshore energy solutions business providing infrastructure assets, technologies and services to the global energy industry. From the company’s beginning in 1973, OEG has evolved significantly, growing both organically and through strategic acquisitions, to become a pivotal link in the global energy supply chain.

    OEG delivers specialized and complementary solutions for above-water, on-water and below-water applications across the full energy lifecycle. From the provision of offshore logistics equipment and bespoke solutions, through to the delivery of integrated services for larger project work scopes, OEG plays an important role in supporting the production of the world’s energy needs whether that be electricity, gas or oil.

    Headquartered in Aberdeen, UK, OEG has over 1,300 employees and operates in more than 65 countries.

    About Oaktree

    Oaktree is a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, with $202 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024. The firm emphasizes an opportunistic, value-oriented, and risk-controlled approach to investments in credit, equity, and real estate. The firm has more than 1,200 employees and offices in 23 cities worldwide. For additional information, please visit Oaktree’s website at http://www.oaktreecapital.com/.

    Apollo Contacts

    Noah Gunn
    Global Head of Investor Relations
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    (212) 822-0540
    IR@apollo.com

    Joanna Rose
    Global Head of Corporate Communications
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    (212) 822-0491
    Communications@apollo.com

    Oaktree Press Contacts

    FGS Global
    Rory King / Hannah Ratcliff
    Rory.King@fgsglobal.com / Hannah.Ratcliff@fgsglobal.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Australian Oilseeds Sees Surging Demand for its Canola Oil from China

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COOTAMUNDRA, Australia, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: COOT) today announced that it is seeing surging demand for its canola oil products from China in response to the ongoing trade war between China and Canada.

    “Our high-quality oils are well positioned for growth in China and the partnership with Shanghai Maiwei Trading Co., which we announced in January 2025, provides a strong foundation to capitalize on the recent surge in demand for our canola oil,” said Gary Seaton, Chief Executive Officer. “We have received numerous inquiries from both private and state-owned enterprises and anticipate entering into several long-term supply agreements with Chinese companies over the next 12 months.”

    According to the United States Trade Representative (USTR), in 2024, the United States (US) goods trade with Australia totaled an estimated $51.3 billion, with US goods exports to Australia at $34.6 billion and imports from Australia at $16.7 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $17.9 billion for the US.  Currently, a majority of sales are from the domestic market through major supermarkets and retailers, thus any current or future trade tariff’s implemented by US are expected to have no significant impact on sales or profitability of business.

    About Australian Oilseeds Investments Pty Ltd. Australian Oilseeds Investments Pty Ltd. is an Australian proprietary company that, directly and indirectly through its subsidiaries, is focused on the manufacture and sale of sustainable oilseeds (e.g., seeds grown primarily for the production of edible oils) and is committed to working with all suppliers in the food supply chain to eliminate chemicals from the production and manufacturing systems to supply quality products to customers globally. The Company engages in the business of processing, manufacture and sale of non-GMO oilseeds and organic and non-organic food-grade oils, for the rapidly growing oilseeds market, through sourcing materials from suppliers focused on reducing the use of chemicals in consumables in order to supply healthier food ingredients, vegetable oils, proteins and other products to customers globally. Over the past 20 years, the Company’s cold pressing oil plant has grown to become the largest in Australia, pressing strictly GMO-free conventional and organic oilseeds.

    Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to, statements regarding our financial outlook, business strategy and plans, market trends and market size, opportunities and positioning. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “believe,” “hope,” “target,” “project,” “goals,” “estimate,” “potential,” “predict,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “could,” “intend,” “shall” and variations of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond our control. For example, global economic conditions could in the future reduce demand for our products; we could in the future experience cybersecurity incidents; we may be unable to manage or sustain the level of growth that our business has experienced in prior periods; our financial resources may not be sufficient to maintain or improve our competitive position; we may be unable to attract new customers, or retain or sell additional products to existing customers; we may experience challenges successfully expanding our marketing and sales capabilities, including further specializing our sales force; customer growth could decelerate in the future; we may not achieve expected synergies and efficiencies of operations from recent acquisitions or business combinations, and we may not be able to pay off our convertible notes when due. Further information on potential factors that could affect our financial results is included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent our views only as of the date of this press release and we assume no obligation and do not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

    Contact
    Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited
    126-142 Cowcumbla Street
    Cootamundra New South Wales 2590
    Attn: Bob Wu, CFO
    Email: bob@energreennutrition.com.au

    Investor Relations Contact
    Reed Anderson
    (646) 277-1260
    reed.anderson@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Expansion of Turbo Energy Gains Momentum with Launch of Turbo Energy Solutions’ New Business Line in Latin America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Introduces New Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) Financing Model to Mitigate Large Initial Investments in Sustainable Energy Technologies by Customers in Chile

    Performance of the First SUNBOX Industry Installation in Temuco, Chile Successfully Put to the Test During Recent Massive Country-Wide Blackout Just Days After Activation

    VALENCIA, Spain, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Turbo Energy, S.A. (NASDAQ:TURB) (“Turbo Energy” or the “Company”), a global provider of leading-edge, AI-optimized solar energy storage technologies and solutions, today proudly announced its expansion into Latin America with the formation of Turbo Energy Solutions (“TES”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company created to offer advanced, fully integrated, end-to-end solutions for scalable generation, storage and intelligent AI-optimized management of solar energy for commercial and industrial (“C&I”) customers in Chile.

    Turbo Energy Solutions, in collaboration with the Molina Brothers’ Smart Dock group, complete installation of Latin America’s first fully integrated solar generation, storage and AI-optimized energy management system at Alto Labranzo Shopping Center in Chile

    Through TES, the Company has also introduced its new Energy-as-a-Service financing program, which enables C&I customers in Chile to acquire, deploy and capitalize on advanced solar energy production systems integrated with SUNBOX Industry and its innovative AI-powered energy management system, without the need to make large upfront investments in equipment. Customers benefit from an optimized, efficient and sustainable energy supply while also taking full economic advantage of a payment system based on SUNBOX Industry’s AI-powered energy management performance. The EaaS financing program represents a potentially lucrative new recurring revenue stream for Turbo Energy that is expected to fuel exponential growth for the Company as market acceptance and adoption of SUNBOX Industry gains momentum in the region.

    Senior officials from Turbo Energy Solutions and the Smart Dock industrial group: (left to right) Andres Molina, TES Business Partner; Rafael Gonzalez, TES Solar Self-Consumption Director; Agustin Molina, TES Business Partner; Santiago Molina, TES Business Partner; Felipe Bozzo, TES LATAM Strategy Director; Javier Ferrer, TES Business Development Manager, SUNBOX Industry

    Marking the first project in partnership with the Smart Dock industrial group, an enterprise owned and operated by Chile’s prominent Molina Garcia family, TES completed the debut installation of the SUNBOX Industry smart energy storage system in the Alto Labranza shopping center located in Temuco, Chile. The full project involved the implementation of a hybrid solar generation and active storage system consisting of a photovoltaic installation integrated with the SUNBOX Industry system featuring 102.4 kWh of capacity and supported by Turbo Energy’s AI-optimized energy management system. It is estimated that Alto Labranza will produce more than 147 MWh of clean energy annually, while optimizing its energy efficiency.

    Within days following the live activation of the system at Alto Labranza, on February 26, 2025, Chile suffered a massive blackout that affected much of the country, from Arica to the Los Lagos region, including the nation’s capital, Santiago. Despite the widespread power outage, the Alto Labranza shopping center remained fully operational without interruptions, validating the viability, reliability and efficiency of renewable energy and smart storage in the operation of commercial facilities.

    “The installation in the Labranza center signifies the achievement of double milestones for our Company. On the one hand, it represents Turbo Energy’s entry into a leading country in renewable energy with an innovative business model, further demonstrating that execution of our planned global expansion initiative is on track and gaining traction. On the other hand, it represents the first smart storage system implemented in Latin America, setting a precedent for the incorporation of new models that promote the economic decarbonization of this high growth region,” said Mariano Soria, CEO of Turbo Energy.

    For more information on SUNBOX Industry smart energy storage solutions, please email Turbo Energy at sales@Turbo-e.com.  

    About Turbo Energy, S.A.

    Founded in 2013, Turbo Energy is a globally recognized pioneer of proprietary solar energy storage technologies and solutions managed through Artificial Intelligence. Turbo Energy’s elegant all-in-one and scalable, modular energy storage systems empower residential, commercial and industrial users expanding across Europe, North America and Latin America to materially reduce dependence on traditional energy sources, helping to lower electricity costs, provide peak shaving and uninterruptible power supply and realize a more sustainable, energy-efficient future. A testament to the Company’s commitment to innovation and industry disruption, Turbo Energy’s introduction of its flagship SUNBOX represents one of the world’s first high performance, competitively priced, all-in-one home solar energy storage systems, which also incorporates patented EV charging capability and powerful AI processes to optimize solar energy management.  Turbo Energy is a proud subsidiary of publicly traded Umbrella Global Energy, S.A., a vertically integrated, global collective of solar energy-focused companies.  For more information, please visit www.turbo-e.com. 

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of the business of the Company, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control, including the risks described in our registration statements and annual report under the heading “Risk Factors” as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Turbo Energy, S.A. specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    For more information, please contact:
    At Turbo Energy, S.A.                                                 
    Dodi Handy, Director of Communications                       
    Phone: 407-960-4636                                                   
    Email: dodihandy@turbo-e.com 

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Standard Lithium Appoints Karen G. Narwold to the Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Standard Lithium Ltd. (“Standard Lithium” or the “Company”) (TSXV:SLI) (NYSE American:SLI), a leading near-commercial lithium company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen G. Narwold, NACD.DC as an independent member of its board of directors.

    Robert Cross, Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, commented, “The Standard Lithium Board is excited to welcome Karen as an independent director. Karen brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience within the manufacturing and chemicals space, including most recently as Chief Administrative Officer, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Albemarle Corporation. Her significant experience in legal, governance, regulatory and government affairs and operational matters will be invaluable as Standard Lithium seeks to develop its world class projects across the Smackover.”

    “Karen is an accomplished senior executive with an impressive breadth of experience that will be a significant addition to Standard’s board,” said David Park, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Standard Lithium. “Her leadership at Albemarle was critical as they transformed into a global leader in lithium production, and we expect her experience will be crucial as Standard Lithium seeks to do the same.”

    Ms. Narwold brings over 30 years of experience leading legal, compliance, external affairs, governance, human resources and corporate development functions for multinational companies. Prior to her service at Albemarle, from which she retired in 2023, Ms. Narwold served as Vice President and Strategic Counsel of Barzel Industries, and as Vice President, General Counsel, Human Resources and Corporate Secretary for GrafTech International. Ms. Narwold currently serves on the Board of Directors for Ingevity Corporation, where she is a member of the Audit Committee and the Chair of the Sustainability & Safety Committee.

    Ms. Narwold is NACD Directorship Certified® and holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Connecticut and a Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law.

    About Standard Lithium Ltd.

    Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of large, high-grade lithium-brine properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes projects characterized by the highest quality resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. Standard Lithium aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully integrated Direct Lithium Extraction (“DLE”) and purification process. The Company’s flagship projects are located in the Smackover Formation, a world-class lithium brine asset, focused in Arkansas and Texas. In partnership with global energy leader Equinor, Standard Lithium is advancing the South West Arkansas project, a greenfield project located in southern Arkansas, and actively exploring promising lithium brine prospects in East Texas. Additionally, the Company is advancing the Phase 1A project in partnership with LANXESS Corporation, a brownfield development project located in southern Arkansas. Standard Lithium also holds an interest in certain mineral leases in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

    Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”) and the NYSE American under the symbol “SLI”. For more information on Standard Lithium, please visit the Company’s website at www.standardlithium.com.

    Investor and Media Inquiries

    Chris Lang
    Standard Lithium Ltd.
    +1 604 409 8154
    investors@standardlithium.com

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and “forward looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “will”, “schedule” and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, outcomes of commercialization, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued production of lithium chloride solutions, consistent ongoing lithium recovery quantities, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: One Stop Systems Reports Q4 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Strength in both segments contributed to consolidated year-over-year revenue growth for Q4 2024

    Consolidated revenue increased sequentially every quarter throughout 2024, reflecting the success of the Company’s transformation strategy to higher-growth markets

    Management expects double-digit consolidated revenue growth in 2025, driven by anticipated OSS segment revenue of over 20% and consolidated EBITDA break even for the year

    ESCONDIDO, Calif., March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One Stop Systems, Inc. (“OSS” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OSS), a leader in rugged Enterprise Class compute for artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) autonomy and sensor processing at the edge, reported results for the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2024. Comparisons for the three- and twelve-month periods are to the same year-ago periods unless otherwise noted.

    “I am pleased to report a return to consolidated year-over-year revenue growth for the fourth quarter, as sales from both our OSS and Bressner segments grew at double digit rates. Throughout 2024 we executed on our multi-year transformation, making significant progress in shifting our business toward higher-margin, higher-growth markets. We invested in our platform, strengthened our pipeline, and deepened collaboration with customers developing high-performance, Enterprise Class, edge computing solutions for both commercial and defense applications,” stated OSS President and CEO, Mike Knowles.

    “As efforts to reposition the Company for revenue growth gained momentum during 2024 and our business model evolved, we adjusted our legacy inventory and program costs to better align with our focus on improving efficiencies and increasing profitability. We believe the progress we made in 2024 strengthened our business, positioning the Company for higher sales and profitability in 2025 and beyond,” concluded Mr. Knowles.

    2024 Fourth-Quarter Financial Summary

    Consolidated revenue was $15.1 million, compared to $13.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The 15.1% year-over-year increase was a result of a $1.3 million increase in Bressner segment revenue and a $642,000 year-over-year increase in OSS segment revenue. The 10% year-over-year increase in OSS segment revenue was primarily due to higher revenue from defense and commercial customers, as well as new customer-funded development orders, aligned directly with the Company’s strategic focus and plan.

    The following table sets forth net revenue by segment for the three months ended December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023 (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding):

      Three Months Ended
    Entity: December 31, 
    2024
    		   % of Net
    Revenue
    		   December 31, 
    2023
    		   % of Net
    Revenue
    		   % Change  
    OSS $ 7,042,613   46.5 %   $ 6,401,047   48.7 %   10.0 %
    Bressner   8,097,533   53.5 %     6,754,161   51.3 %   19.9 %
    Total net revenue $ 15,140,146   100.0 %   $ 13,155,209   100.0 %   15.1 %
     

    During the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024, the Company took a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2022.   This charge reduced reported gross margin, net income, and adjusted EBITDA for the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2024. Management does not currently foresee any further charges related to this customer-funded development contract.  

    Consolidated gross margin percentage was 15.7%, compared to 33.7% in the prior year quarter. Gross margin, excluding the one-time charges, was 23.8%, compared to 33.7% in the same period last year. The decrease in gross margin was primarily due to product mix.

    On a segment basis, the OSS segment had a gross margin of 9.4%, compared to 45.9% for the same period a year ago. OSS segment gross margin, excluding the one-time charges, was 26.8%, compared to 45.9%. The decrease from the same period last year was primarily driven by product mix. The Company’s Bressner segment had a gross margin percentage of 21.2%, compared to 22.2% in the same period last year.  

    Total operating expenses increased 15.1% to $5.5 million. This increase was predominantly attributable to higher general and administrative costs related to planned sales and program management investments made during the quarter.

    The Company reported a net loss of $3.1 million, or $(0.15) per share, as compared to a net loss of $278,000, or $(0.01) per share, in the prior year period.

    Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP metric, was a loss of $2.3 million, inclusive of $1.2 million in one-time charges, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $322,000 in the prior year period.

    As of December 31, 2024, the Company reported cash and short-term investments of $10.0 million and total working capital of $24.0 million, compared to cash and short-term investments of $11.8 million and total working capital of $35.6 million at December 31, 2023. The reduction in cash and short-term investments was primarily driven by the paydown of $1 million of notes payable.  

    2024 Twelve Months Financial Summary

    Consolidated revenue was $54.7 million, compared to $60.9 million for the same period last year. The 10.2% year-over-year reduction in consolidated revenue was primarily a result of approximately $4.8 million related to a former media customer, for whom shipments ceased in the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was partially offset by higher sales to customers in the military and defense end markets. In addition, Bressner segment revenue declined by $2.0 million on a year-over-year basis, associated with slower economic activity in the German economy.  

    The following table sets forth net revenue by segment for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023 (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding):

      Twelve Months Ended
    Entity: December 31, 
    2024
    		   % of Net
    Revenue
    		   December 31, 
    2023
    		   % of Net
    Revenue
    		   % Change
    OSS $ 24,558,809   44.9 %   $ 28,809,888   47.3 %   (14.8 )%
    Bressner   30,135,550   55.1 %     32,086,910   52.7 %   (6.1 )%
    Total net revenue $ 54,694,358   100.0 %   $ 60,896,798   100.0 %   (10.2 )%
                                 

    For the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company incurred a total of $8.3 million of one-time charges that reduced reported gross margin, net income, and adjusted EBITDA. During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company took a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2022.   Additionally, during the year, OSS incurred $7.1 million of inventory charges related to obsolete and slow-moving inventory associated with the transition of the Company’s business model and operating strategies, as well as slower adoption and movement in certain commercial and defense edge compute markets. Management does not currently foresee any further significant adjustments to costs related to this customer-funded development contract or inventory charges, outside of historical trends.  

    Consolidated gross margin percentage was 14.1%, compared to 29.5% in the prior year. On a full year basis, consolidated gross margin, excluding one-time charges, was 29.3%, compared to 29.5% in 2023.

    On a segment basis, the Company’s OSS segment had a gross margin of 2.5%, compared to 35.6% for the same period a year ago. OSS segment gross margin, excluding one-time charges, was 36.4%, up from 35.6% for 2023. The Company’s Bressner segment had a gross margin of 23.5%, compared to 24.0% in the same period last year.  

    Total operating expenses decreased 18.6% to $21.1 million. This decrease was predominantly attributable to a charge of $5.6 million for an impairment of goodwill that occurred during the 2023 twelve-month period, the elimination of costs associated with organizational restructuring, timing of certain new product introduction activities and the deployment of engineering resources onto customer funded development efforts, partially offset by increased costs for personnel and for tradeshow participation.

    The Company reported a net loss of $13.6 million, or $(0.65) per share, as compared to a net loss of $6.7 million, or $(0.32) per share, in the prior year. Non-GAAP net loss and loss per share was $11.6 million, or $(0.56) per share, as compared to non-GAAP net loss and loss per share of $415,000, or $(0.02) per share, in the prior year period. Net loss and non-GAAP net loss for the period ended December 31, 2024, are inclusive of $8.3 million of one-time charges.

    Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP metric, was a loss of $10.3 million, inclusive of $7.1 million of inventory-related charges and a $1.2 million contract loss related to a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2022, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $1.1 million in the prior year.

    2025 Full Year Outlook

    The Company anticipates consolidated revenue of $59 to $61 million for the full year of 2025. This includes expected OSS segment revenue of approximately $30 million, representing over 20% year-over-year growth in the OSS segment. In addition, the Company expects to be EBITDA break-even for the full year of 2025. Management expects revenue and profitability to improve at a higher rate in the second half of 2025 based on current trends and the Company’s expanding sales pipeline.   

    Conference Call

    OSS will hold a conference call to discuss its results for the fourth quarter of 2024, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
    Time: 10:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. PT)
    Toll-free dial-in: 1-800-717-1738
    International dial-in: 1-646-307-1865
    Conference ID: 35863 (required for entry)
    Webcast: https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1706031&tp_key=7e52a82afd

    A replay of the call will be available after 1:00 p.m. ET on March 19, 2025, through April 2, 2025.

    Toll-free replay: 1-844-512-2921
    International replay: 1-412-317-6671
    Passcode: 1135863

    About One Stop Systems

    One Stop Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: OSS) is a leader in AI enabled solutions for the demanding ‘edge’. OSS designs and manufactures Enterprise Class compute and storage products that enable rugged AI, sensor fusion and autonomous capabilities without compromise. These hardware and software platforms bring the latest data center performance to harsh and challenging applications, whether they are on land, sea or in the air.

    OSS products include ruggedized servers, compute accelerators, flash storage arrays, and storage acceleration software. These specialized compact products are used across multiple industries and applications, including autonomous trucking and farming, as well as aircraft, drones, ships and vehicles within the defense industry.

    OSS solutions address the entire AI workflow, from high-speed data acquisition to deep learning, training and large-scale inference, and have delivered many industry firsts for industrial OEM and government customers.

    As the fastest growing segment of the multi-billion-dollar edge computing market, AI enabled solutions require—and OSS delivers—the highest level of performance in the most challenging environments without compromise.

    OSS products are available directly or through global distributors. For more information, go to www.onestopsystems.com. You can also follow OSS on X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We believe that the use of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or adjusted EBITDA, is helpful for an investor to assess the performance of the Company. The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as income (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, acquisition expense, impairment of long-lived assets, financing costs, government funded programs, fair value adjustments from purchase accounting, stock-based compensation expense, and expenses related to discontinued operations.

    Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP. Because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of equity instruments that can impact a company’s non-cash operating expenses, we believe that providing a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes non-cash and non-recurring expenses allows for meaningful comparisons between our core business operating results and those of other companies, as well as providing us with an important tool for financial and operational decision making and for evaluating our own core business operating results over different periods of time.

    Our adjusted EBITDA measure may not provide information that is directly comparable to that provided by other companies in our industry, as other companies in our industry may calculate non-GAAP financial results differently, particularly related to non-recurring and unusual items. Our adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under GAAP, and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or as an indication of operating performance or any other measure of performance derived in accordance with GAAP. We do not consider adjusted EBITDA to be a substitute for, or superior to, the information provided by GAAP financial results.

      For the Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		     For the Year Ended 
    December 31,    		  
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net loss $ (3,134,782 )   $ (277,560 )   $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
    Depreciation and amortization of intangibles   226,417       263,743       1,041,837       1,077,516  
    Amortization of right-of-use assets, net of changes in lease liability   (2,488 )     (30,208 )     29,885       22,592  
    Stock-based compensation expense   564,176       454,461       1,988,125       2,345,358  
    Interest expense   3,206       29,662       74,116       117,774  
    Interest income   (100,805 )     (159,487 )     (477,745 )     (544,958 )
    Impairment of goodwill   –       –       –       5,630,788  
    Employee retention credit (ERC)   –       –       –       (1,716,727 )
    Provision for income taxes   157,120       41,796       726,502       927,128  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (2,287,156 )   $ 322,407     $ (10,251,613 )   $ 1,143,296  
                           

    FOOTNOTE: Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024, included a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2023. Adjusted EBITDA for the full year ended December 31, 2024, also included inventory-related charges of $7.1 million.  

    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)

    Adjusted EPS excludes the impact of certain items and, therefore, has not been calculated in accordance with GAAP. We believe that exclusion of certain selected items assists in providing a more complete understanding of our underlying results and trends and allows for comparability with our peer company index and industry. We use this measure along with the corresponding GAAP financial measures to manage our business and to evaluate our performance compared to prior periods and the marketplace. The Company defines non-GAAP income (loss) as income or (loss) before amortization, government funded programs, impairment of long lived assets, stock-based compensation, expenses related to discontinued operations, and acquisition costs. Adjusted EPS expresses adjusted income (loss) on a per share basis using weighted average diluted shares outstanding.

    Adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for financial information provided in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures may not be computed in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. We expect to continue to incur expenses similar to the adjusted income from continuing operations and adjusted EPS financial adjustments described above, and investors should not infer from our presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures that these costs are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring.

    The following table reconciles non-GAAP net income and basic and diluted earnings per share:

      For the Three Months Ended 
    December 31,    		     For the Full Year Ended
    December 31,    		  
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net loss $ (3,134,782 )   $ (277,560 )   $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
    Amortization of intangibles   –       –       –       42,154  
    Impairment of goodwill   –       –       –       5,630,788  
    Employee retention credit (ERC)   –       –       –       (1,716,727 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   564,176       454,461       1,988,125       2,345,358  
    Non-GAAP net loss $ (2,570,606 )   $ 176,901     $ (11,646,208 )   $ (414,603 )
    Non-GAAP net loss per share:                      
    Basic $ (0.12 )   $ 0.01     $ (0.56 )   $ (0.02 )
    Diluted $ (0.12 )   $ 0.01     $ (0.56 )   $ (0.02 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:                      
    Basic   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
    Diluted   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
                           

    FOOTNOTE: Non-GAAP net loss for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024, included a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2023. Non-GAAP net loss for the full year ended December 31, 2024, also included an inventory charge of $6.1 million.  

    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)

    Forward-Looking Statements

    One Stop Systems cautions you that statements in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the company’s current beliefs and expectations. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by One Stop Systems or its partners that any of our plans or expectations will be achieved, including but not limited to, our ability to expand our product offerings and further penetrate our target markets, future demand for AI/ML integrations, expected or anticipated increase in revenues, and our business strategies. Actual results may differ from those set forth in this press release due to the risk and uncertainties inherent in our business, including risks described in our prior press releases and in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading “Risk Factors” in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, which is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Media Contacts:
    Robert Kalebaugh
    One Stop Systems, Inc.
    Tel (858) 518-6154
    Email contact

    Investor Relations:
    Andrew Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    Tel (216) 464-6400
    Email contact

    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     
      Audited     Audited  
      December 31,     December 31,  
      2024     2023  
    ASSETS          
    Current assets          
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,794,093     $ 4,048,948  
    Short-term investments   3,217,065       7,771,820  
    Accounts receivable, net   8,177,371       8,318,247  
    Inventories, net   13,176,156       21,694,748  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   836,364       611,066  
    Total current assets   32,201,048       42,444,829  
    Property and equipment, net   1,669,026       2,370,224  
    Operating lease right-of use assets   1,536,094       1,922,784  
    Deposits and other   38,093       38,093  
    Goodwill   1,489,722       1,489,722  
    Total Assets $ 36,933,982     $ 48,265,652  
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Current liabilities          
    Accounts payable $ 2,068,017     $ 1,201,781  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   4,806,675       3,202,519  
    Current portion of operating lease obligation   285,937       390,926  
    Current portion of notes payable   1,035,050       2,077,895  
    Total current liabilities   8,195,679       6,873,121  
    Deferred tax liability, net   52,574       44,673  
    Operating lease obligation, net of current portion   1,513,684       1,765,536  
    Total liabilities   9,761,937       8,683,330  
    Commitments and contingencies          
    Stockholders’ equity          
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 21,148,810 and 20,661,341 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively   2,115       2,066  
    Additional paid-in capital   49,082,737       47,323,673  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income   140,254       675,310  
    Accumulated deficit   (22,053,061 )     (8,418,727 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   27,172,045       39,582,322  
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $ 36,933,982     $ 48,265,652  
               
    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)
     
      For the Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		     For the Year Ended
    December 31,    		  
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Revenue:                      
    Product $ 14,280,939     $ 12,335,554     $ 51,003,350     $ 59,200,580  
    Customer funded development   859,207       819,655       3,691,009       1,696,217  
        15,140,146       13,155,209       54,694,358       60,896,797  
    Cost of revenue:                      
    Product   10,829,859       8,229,397       42,953,344       41,907,604  
    Customer funded development   1,930,800       491,242       4,022,707       1,034,571  
        12,760,659       8,720,639       46,976,051       42,942,175  
    Gross (loss) profit   2,379,487       4,434,570       7,718,307       17,954,622  
    Operating expenses:                      
    General and administrative   2,413,102       1,970,746       8,971,909       9,264,447  
    Impairment of goodwill   –       –       –       5,630,788  
    Marketing and selling   1,821,918       1,667,765       8,005,982       6,651,516  
    Research and development   1,250,377       1,127,194       4,097,229       4,331,024  
    Total operating expenses   5,485,397       4,765,704       21,075,120       25,877,775  
    Loss from operations   (3,105,910 )     (331,134 )     (13,356,813 )     (7,923,153 )
    Other income (expense), net:                      
    Interest income   100,805       159,487       477,745       544,958  
    Interest expense   (3,206 )     (29,662 )     (74,116 )     (117,774 )
    Employee retention credit (ERC)   –       418,431       –       1,716,727  
    Other income (expense), net   30,647       (452,886 )     45,353       (9,806 )
    Total other income, net   128,246       95,370       448,982       2,134,105  
    Loss before income taxes   (2,977,664 )     (235,764 )     (12,907,831 )     (5,789,048 )
    Provision for income taxes   157,119       41,796       726,502       927,128  
    Net loss $ (3,134,783 )   $ (277,560 )   $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
                           
    Net loss per share:                      
    Basic $ (0.15 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (0.65 )   $ (0.32 )
    Diluted $ (0.15 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (0.65 )   $ (0.32 )
                           
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:                      
    Basic   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
    Diluted   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
                                   
    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
     
      For the Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
      2024     2023 
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net loss $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:        
    Deferred income taxes   28,082       (95,496 )
    Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment   354       –  
    Provision for bad debt   85,447       4,160  
    Impairment of goodwill   –       5,630,788  
    Warranty reserves   (79,962 )     11,846  
    Amortization of intangibles   –       42,154  
    Depreciation   1,041,837       1,035,362  
    Amortization of right-of-use assets   377,206       1,241,445  
    Inventory reserves   7,348,390       962,458  
    Stock-based compensation expense   1,988,125       2,345,358  
    Employee retention credit   –       (1,716,727 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable   (190,339 )     3,095,701  
    Inventories   658,303       (1,636,153 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   (238,554 )     (100,848 )
    Accounts payable   926,231       (3,408,487 )
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   1,928,436       83,789  
    Operating lease liabilities   (347,321 )     (1,218,853 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   (108,098 )     (439,679 )
             
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Redemption of short-term investment grade securities   4,553,535       2,342,552  
    Purchases of property and equipment, including capitalization of labor   (362,748 )     (821,753 )
    Net cash provided by investing activities   4,190,787       1,520,799  
             
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants   237,749       62,422  
    Payment of payroll taxes on net issuance of employee stock options   (466,762 )     (597,856 )
    Repayments on notes payable   (954,939 )     (1,352,637 )
    Employee retention credit benefit   –       1,716,727  
    Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities   (1,183,952 )     (171,344 )
             
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents   2,898,737       909,776  
    Effect of exchange rates on cash   (153,592 )     26,977  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   4,048,948       3,112,196  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 6,794,093     $ 4,048,948  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor’s National Wealth Fund to deliver growth and boost security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Chancellor’s National Wealth Fund to deliver growth and boost security

    Chancellor sets new strategy for National Wealth Fund to reflect our Plan for Change, unlocking billions of pounds of private investment into the UK.

    • New strategic steer will see National Wealth Fund take on higher risk projects as government goes further and faster to kickstart economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower and boost security.
    • Government also launches recruitment for a new National Wealth Fund CEO to build on the £1.8 billion unlocked in private investment since July.

    The National Wealth Fund will unlock over £70 billion in private investment to help deliver economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower, and strengthen the defence sector, the Chancellor has confirmed today [19 March]. 

    The new strategic direction sets clean energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and transport as new priority sectors for the National Wealth Fund. Money will be invested across the United Kingdom in projects like carbon capture, green hydrogen, gigafactories, green steel, and ports.  

    Crucially, the Chancellor’s steer will help direct investment to the industries our defence sector relies on – advanced manufacturing and digital and dual-use technologies – working with industry to keep Britain safe and building on the Government’s commitment to increase spending on defence and national security to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027.   

    The National Wealth Fund’s economic capital limit will also be increased from £4.5 billion to £7 billion, allowing it take on greater risk. This means it has more flexibility over its investments and can support more projects that struggle to access private finance.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP, said:

    My number one mission is kickstarting economic growth through our Plan for Change to make Great Britain a stronger, more resilient country and put more money into the pockets of working people.

    I am determined to go further and faster to get our economy growing. By directing tens of billions of pounds into the UK’s industrial strengths, we’ll deliver the high-skilled, high-paid jobs of the future in every corner of the country.

    Since July last year, the National Wealth Fund has unlocked 9,900 jobs and nearly £1.8 billion of private investment in growth-driving industries like green energy and technology. 

    Investment has already started flowing into priority sectors including £55 million for Connected Kerb to increase coverage of EV charging networks and a £28.6 million investment into Cornish Metals. 

    The Chancellor’s strategic steer comes as a new £9.6 million National Wealth Fund investment was announced today for Solihull Council to improve the area’s heating infrastructure and reduce bills, providing low carbon heating, hot water and power to town centre buildings. 

    To lead this new chapter for the UK’s flagship public investor, the Government has also launched a recruitment campaign for the National Wealth Fund’s next CEO. 

    John Flint will step down from the role of CEO in the summer after successfully seeing through the National Wealth Fund’s transition from the UK Infrastructure Bank. 

    The Chancellor will also establish a new UK Strategic Public Investment Forum joining up the UK’s leading policymakers and public financial institutions including the CEOs of the National Wealth Fund, British Business Bank, UK Export Finance, Homes England, Innovate UK, and Great British Energy and The Crown Estate. 

    The forum – the first of its kind – will cooperate on delivering investments to the priority areas set out by the Chancellor and will be tasked with ensuring the Government is getting maximum impact for its investments.  

    Stemming from this, the National Wealth Fund will work closely with Great British Energy to support its quick establishment as a publicly owned clean energy company that will boost Britain’s energy security making it a clean energy superpower, lower bills, create jobs, and grow the economy.

    Investing in homegrown clean energy industries is an essential part of the government’s drive to replace the UK’s dependency on fossil fuel markets controlled by petrostates and dictators with clean, homegrown power.

    Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP, said:

    Clean power is the economic opportunity of the 21st century – and through the National Wealth Fund we will seize this opportunity to invest in British industries and workers.

    We are delivering our clean energy superpower mission to make our country energy secure and deliver the good jobs that the British people deserve.

    More details on Great British Energy’s developer mandate have also been released today.

    The partnership between Great British Energy and the National Wealth Fund will see the former bringing project development expertise as well as investment, and the latter providing finance, a model already being deployed in Japan and Denmark. 

    Harnessing private investment via the National Wealth Fund is part of the Government’s wider efforts to kickstart economic growth and deliver a new era of security and renewal through our Plan for Change. 

    Cutting red tape so major infrastructure projects can progress, removing unnecessary hurdles in the planning system so more homes can be built, and progressing new economic partnerships with international partners like Japan and India is part of the work being undertaken to grow the economy and put more money in people’s pockets.

    More information

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –