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Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    India’s Bio-Economy Soars from $10B to $130B Under PM Modi’s Leadership, Aims for $300B,Says the Minister

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 4:38PM by PIB Delhi

    JAMMU, February 2 : “Gene therapy promises individualised management of disease for each patient. Even if two individuals suffer from the same condition—be it cancer, kidney disease, or any other ailment—the treatment could be different in each case, guided by the individual’s unique genetic makeup, pre-existing susceptibilities and inherited vulnerabilities.”, stated Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, while inaugurating the Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine at AIIMS Jammu.

    Set up in collaboration with 4 base Care, the Centre aims to usher in a new era of personalised medicine, leveraging cutting-edge genomic research to provide targeted treatment based on individual genetic profiles.

    Underscoring the transformative potential of gene therapy, the Minister emphasised that with genomic advancements, doctors would no longer rely on a one-size-fits-all approach but would tailor treatments to maximise efficacy and specificity for each individual.

    The newly launched Centre for Advanced Genomics & Precision Medicine places AIIMS Jammu among the frontrunners in India’s medical research landscape. By integrating genomic data with AI-driven diagnostics, the centre aims to enhance early disease detection, optimise treatment strategies, and reduce the trial-and-error approach in medical prescriptions. Experts at the event noted that this facility would play a pivotal role in advancing precision oncology, cardiovascular genomics, and genetic screening for rare disorders.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has prioritised technology-driven progress in the healthcare sector. He cited the government’s efforts in promoting indigenous research and biotechnology, highlighting the exponential growth in India’s bio-economy—from a mere $10 billion in 2014 to nearly $130 billion today, with an ambitious target of $300 billion in the near future. He further stated that with over 9,000 biotech startups compared to just 50 in 2014, India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in medical innovation.

    The Minister stressed the need for an India-specific genomic database, highlighting the country’s unique genetic diversity. “India is a subcontinent in itself, with over 4,600 distinct demographic groups. Our gene sequencing efforts, which have already mapped 10,000 healthy individuals across 99 communities, will help create a robust dataset tailored to Indian-specific health challenges,” he said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing one million genome sequences in the coming years to enable more accurate disease prediction and personalised interventions.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also pointed out the resurgence of infectious diseases alongside the rise in non-communicable diseases, urging a hybrid approach combining traditional diagnostics with genetic insights. “India has already proven itself in preventive healthcare, pioneering innovations like the world’s first DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine. With this new centre, we will further strengthen our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases using cutting-edge technology,” he said.

    A key objective of the centre is to make precision medicine affordable and accessible to the masses. While personalised treatments have traditionally been costly, AIIMS Jammu aims to leverage indigenous research and government-backed biotech initiatives to bring down costs and integrate precision medicine into public healthcare programs.

    The Minister highlighted initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, which has provided health coverage to millions, and the recently launched Bio-E3 policy, which focuses on biotechnology for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and employment generation. He stated that the government’s National Research Foundation (Anusandhan) will play a crucial role in funding next-generation research in genomics and personalised medicine.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh elaborated on how Precision Medicine could be a game-changer for cancer treatment, enabling doctors to design targeted therapies instead of relying solely on conventional chemotherapy and radiation. He cited India’s recent success in conducting the first-ever genetic therapy trial for haemophilia at CMC Vellore, where patients showed a 60% improvement in clotting factor production, with zero bleeding episodes. The trial, acknowledged globally and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, underscores India’s rising stature in genetic research.

    He also noted that genomic medicine would play a crucial role in tackling lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, which is now affecting younger age groups in India. A recent study found that the prevalence of Type 2 diabetes in Jammu is slightly higher than the national average, making AIIMS Jammu’s research even more critical in developing effective intervention strategies.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded his address by reaffirming the government’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, where healthcare is not only curative but also predictive and preventive. “This is just the beginning. The future of medicine is personalised, and India is well on its way to leading the world in genomic healthcare,” he said.

    Earlier, in his welcome address, Director AIIMS Jammu, Dr Shakti Gupta was all praise for Dr Jitendra Singh for the setting up and continuous upgradation of AIIMS Jammu.

    Dr YK Gupta President AIIMS and Dr V Srinivas Director AIIMS New Delhi also spoke on the occasion.

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    NKR/PSM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Gender Budget Allocations in Union Budget of 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    KEY HIGHLIGHTS: Gender Budget Allocations in Union Budget of 2025-26

    Gender Budget allocation in the total Union Budget increases to 8.86% in FY 2025-26 from 6.8% in 2024-25

    Rs. 4.49 lakh crore allocated for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26, an increase of Rs. 37.25% over the Gender budget allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:36PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament on 1st February,2025. The share of Gender Budget allocation in the total Union Budget has increased to 8.86% in FY 2025-26 from 6.8% in FY 2024-25. 

    An allocation of Rs. 4.49 lakh crore has been reported for welfare of women and girls in the gender budget statement of FY 2025-26. This is an increase of Rs. 37.25% over the GBS allocation of Rs. 3.27 lakh crore in FY 2024-25.

    This year a total of 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported allocations as against 38 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs in FY 2024-25. This is the highest number of reporting by the Ministries/Departments in the GBS since its inception. Twelve new Ministries/Departments have reported allocations in the GBS 2025-26 are Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Department of Biotechnology, Department of Food & Public Distribution, Department of Financial Services, Department of Fisheries, Department of Land Resources, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Water Resources, RD & GR, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and Ministry of Railways.

    These 49 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs have reported allocations in Part A, Part B and Part C of the Gender Budget Statement. Rs. 1,05,535.40 crore (23.50% of total GBS allocation) have been reported by 17 Ministries/Departments and 5 UTs in Part A (100% women specific schemes); Rs. 3,26,672.00 crore (72.75%) have been reported by 37 Ministries/Departments and 4 UTs in Part B (30-99% allocation for women) and  Rs. 16,821.28 crore (3.75%) have been reported by 22 Ministries/Departments in Part C (below 30% allocation for women).

    Top 10 Ministries/Departments that have reported more than 30% of their allocations in the Gender Budget for FY 2025-26 are Ministry of Women & Child Development (81.79%), Department of Rural Development (65.76%), Department of Food & Public Distribution (50.92%), Department of Health & Family Welfare (41.10%), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (40.89%), Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (39.01%), Department of Higher Education (33.94%), Department of School Education & Literacy (33.67%), Ministry of Home Affairs (33.47%) and  Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (31.50%).

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     SS/MS

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 250+ Cyclists led by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Come Together to Support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Message to Fight Obesity

    Source: Government of India (2)

    250+ Cyclists led by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Come Together to Support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Message to Fight Obesity

    Theme of this week’s Fit India ‘Sundays On Cycle’ Event is ‘Obesity Free India’

    Posted On: 02 FEB 2025 3:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led a diverse group of cyclists here on Sunday, taking forward Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call to fight obesity in India. This week’s Fit India Sundays on Cycle event at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium saw participation a from myriad group of doctors and nutritionists, who took forward the message.

    Also present was Paris Paralympics medalist Rubina Francis as well as several youngsters from the Bharati College Delhi and the Soniya Vihar Water Sports Club.

    “Obesity is a major issue and a big challenge for the youth. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says one out of eight people are obese. Therefore, exercise and playing sports is very important these days. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi mentioned about the same at the 38th National Games in Dehradun. We have to lessen our oil consumption and be very conscious of our diet. Cycling consistently will play a beneficial role in this fight against obesity. Through Fit India, we can win this fight,” mentioned Dr Mandaviya on Sunday morning.

    Rubina Francis expressed how the Fit India Sundays on Cycle event is a great step in moving towards this fight against obesity. “Initiatives like this makes the country move towards good health and fight against obesity. Not only will cycling or doing yoga early in the morning bring a lot of positivity in life but also help in the mission towards an obesity-free India. As an athlete, this morning routine has helped me a lot and I feel adapting the same will help the general public as well,” said Rubina, bronze medalist in the P2 10m air pistol SH1 event at Paris 2024.

    Dr Tribhuvan Gulati, Diabetes and Obesity specialist, who was a part of the group of riders, shed light on several health risks obesity plays, “Obesity brings along with it 130 different diseases like osteoarthritis, kidney diseases, liver diseases, fatty liver, pre-diabetes, diabetes, PCOD in women, sexual dysfunction in both men and women, and more. WHO has labelled obesity as a disease in 2016. It is not an aesthetic or cosmetic problem. India labelled obesity as a disease in 2018 that should not be left untreated. This is a big health issue.”

    Dr Piyush Jain, senior paediatrician and a member of Indian Medical Association (IMA), mentioned that cycling is a positive step in combating obesity. “There has been a lot of inactivity among the kids today because of mobile phones and no outdoor games. Sensitising the public on this through the cycling movement is very important. Right now, 20% Indian people are diabetic and by 2030, it will be 35%. We are getting away from healthy food and exercise. Once you start cycling or any other exercise, it increases the metabolism of the body. Energy is consumed and from the moment we start losing weight, the person also becomes more motivated,” said Dr Jain.

    Sports nutritionists from SAI National Centre for Sports Science and Research (NCSSR) were also part of the group of riders. Anshu Malik, Sports Nutritionist, SAI NCSSR said, “When we cycle regularly, our heart rate increases. Once it happens, the overall body toning takes places and the overall BMR also increases. When BMR increases, the weight automatically normalises. Therefore, weight management is also taken care of. Apart from that, as a nutritionist I can say that cycling will make you look young forever.”

    Dr Mandaviya launched this unique cycling drive at the same venue on December 17 last year and several cycling drives have been conducted pan-India every week thereafter. The event has been staged at more than 3500 locations across the country with the participation of more than 3 lakh riders. Events are simultaneously held nationwide at SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) and the Khelo India centres (KICs).

    The Fit India Sundays on Cycle, organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) and MY Bharat, promotes cycling as a sustainable, healthy and environment-friendly mode of transportation.

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    Himanshu Pathak

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 1.31.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jan 31, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Kimberly Rutledge, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director of the Department of Rehabilitation, where she has been Deputy Director of Legislation and Communications since 2022. She held several positions at the California Department of Social Services from 2016 to 2022, including Chief of the Adult Programs Policy and Quality Assurance Branch and Adult Protective Services Program Liaison. Rutledge held several positions at United Domestic Workers of America, AFSCME Local 3930 between 2012 and 2016, including Budget and Policy Analyst and Assistant Legislative Director. She was an Independent Policy Consultant at the County Welfare Directors Association of California from 2011 to 2012. Rutledge was a Sweeney Graduate Intern on Disability Policy at the National Academy of Social Insurance in 2011. She was a Graduate Policy Intern at the Disability Community Resource Center from 2010 to 2011. Rutledge was a News Copy Editor at the Sacramento Bee from 2005 to 2009. She is a member of the National Academy of Social Insurance. Rutledge earned a Master of Social Welfare degree from the University of California, Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $200,004. Rutledge is a Democrat.

    Gloria Earl, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Administrative Services at the California Health and Human Services Agency. Earl has been Principal and Founder at Endurement, LLC since 2022 and Executive Project Manager at Department of Social Services since 2021. Earl was a Guest Services Ticket Taker at Sacramento Kings from 2015 to 2022. She was Union Secretary and Treasurer at the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local B-66 Union from 2019 to 2022. Earl was the Regional Support Manager at the California Workforce Development Board from 2019 to 2021, where she was previously the Program Implementation Manager from 2016 to 2019. She held several roles at the Employment Development Department from 2008 to 2016, including Workforce Services Division Regional Advisor, Associate Governmental Program Analyst in the Veterans Program Unit, and Disability Insurance Program Representative for Paid Family Leave. Earl was an Underwriting Assistant at Zurich North American Insurance Company from 2007 to 2008. She was an Underwriting Assistant at Chubb Insurance Company from 2006 to 2007. Earl was a Workers Compensation Insurance Technician Specialist at the State Compensation Insurance Fund from 2005 to 2006, where she was previously a Workers Compensation Insurance Technician from 2001 to 2005. She was a Service Consultant at Aetna Healthcare from 1998 to 2001. Earl is a member of the California State Supervisors Association. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $145,000. Earl is a Democrat.
     
    David Swanson Hollinger, of Ventura, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director, Children and Families Programs at the Department of Social Services. Swanson Hollinger has been a Consultant at SH Consulting since 2024. He held several roles at Ventura County Human Services Agency from 2013 to 2024, including Deputy Director, Senior Program Manager and Program Manager for Children and Family Services. Swanson Hollinger was Behavioral Health Manager at Ventura County Behavioral Health Department from 2008 to 2013. He was Director of Program Development at Five Acres  – The Boys and Girls Aid Society from 2003 to 2008. Swanson Hollinger was Manager at L.A. Care Health Plan from 2000 to 2003. He is Co-Chair of the Prevention and Early Intervention Committee at the California Child Welfare Council and a Tri-Chair of the California Department of Social Services Family First Prevention Services Advisory Committee. Swanson Hollinger earned a Master of Social Work degree and Master of Public Health degree from University of California, Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from University of California, Berkeley. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $196,452. Swanson Hollinger is a Democrat.
     
    Dr. Hernando Garzon, of St. Helena, has been appointed Chief Medical Officer at Emergency Medical Services Authority, where he has been Interim Chief Medical Officer since 2021. Garzon was an Emergency Medicine Physician at The Permanente Medical Group from 1992 to 2023. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Williams College. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $234,600. Garzon is a Democrat.

    Jon Lamirault, of Los Angeles, has been appointed Deputy Director of the California African American Museum, where he has been an Operations Manager since 2024. Lamirault held two positions at Target Corp from 2012 to 2024, including Store Operations Director from 2017 to 2024, and Human Resource – Executive Team Leader from 2012 to 2017. He was an Associate Director at JVS SoCal from 2008 to 2012. Lamirault earned his Master of Science degree in Organizational Development, and his Bachelor of the Arts degree in Philosophy from the University of La Verne. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $143,688. Lamirault is registered without party preference.
     
    Lindsay Buckley, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director of Communications at the California Air Resources Board. Buckley has been the Deputy Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Media at the California Energy Commission since 2019. She held several positions at the California Air Resources Board from 2013 to 2019, including Information Officer II from 2018 to 2019, Special Assistant to the Chair from 2015 to 2017, and Information Officer I from 2013 to 2015. Buckley was a Program Coordinator at the Institute for Local Government from 2010 to 2013. She was a Sustainability Task Force Member at the City of Chico from 2009 to 2010. Buckley was a Part-Time Instructor at California State University, Chico from 2009 to 2010. She was a Program Representative at Great Valley Center from 2008 to 2010. Buckley earned a Master of Public Policy degree from California State University, Sacramento, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Design, Instructional Design, and Technology from California State University, Chico. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $165,000. Buckley is a Democrat.
     
    Marvin Southard, of Avila Beach, has been appointed to the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. Southard was a Professor of Practice at the University of Southern California from 2015 to 2019. He was the Director of Mental Health for the County of Los Angeles from 1998 to 2015. Southard was Director of Mental Health for the County of Kern from 1993 to 1998. He is a member of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (Stem Cell) Board, California Institute of Behavioral Health Sciences, Network for Social Work Management, and Proxy Parent Foundation. Southard earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Social Work from University of California, Los Angeles, Master of Social Work degree in Community Organizing and Social Planning from University of California, Berkeley, and Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from St. John’s College and Theologate. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Southard is a Democrat.

    Michael Bernick, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. Bernick has been Special Counsel at Duane Morris LLP since 2018. He was Counsel at Sedgwick LLP from 2004 to 2018. Bernick was Counsel at Arnelle & Hastie from 1986 to1999. He was Director of the California Employment Development Department from 1999 to 2004. Bernick was Director at the Bay Area Rapid Transit District from 1988 to 1996. He is a Board member of the Golden Gate Regional Center, Board member at the California Policy Center for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and Job Club leader at the adult autism group, AASCEND. Bernick earned a Juris Doctor degree from University of California, Berkeley, a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy from Oxford University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Government from Harvard University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Bernick is a Democrat.

    Karen Larsen, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. Larsen has been Chief Executive Officer at Steinberg Institute since 2022. She was Director of Health and Human Services for the County of Yolo from 2016 to 2022, where she was Mental Health Director from 2014 to 2022. Larsen was Director of Behavioral Health at CommuniCare Health Centers from 1999 to 2014. She was Program Director at The Effort – WellSpace Health from 1993 to 1997. Larsen earned a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, Sacramento. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Larsen is a Democrat.  

    Pamela Baer, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. Baer was President and Owner of Markitlink, a brand strategy Direct Mail Agency from 1988 to 2000. She is a Lifetime Director of the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation, Founder and Board Chairman of the Transform Mental and Behavioral Health Fund at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, Board member of the Giants Community Fund, Advisory Board Member of Family House Inc. and Nest, Founders Circle member of Every Mother Counts, and member of The Kennedy Forum and Bay Area Regional Council of Dignity Moves. Baer earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and Marketing from the University of Texas at Austin. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Baer is a Democrat.
     
    Gayle Miller, of Sacramento, has been appointed to the Milton Marks “Little Hoover” Commission on California State Government Organization and Economy. Miller has been Managing Director, Transition, Institutional Relationships and Investments, for Brookfield Asset Management since 2024. She was Senior Counselor on Infrastructure and Clean Energy Finance in the Office of Governor Newsom from 2021 to 2024. Miller was Chief Deputy of Policy at the California Department of Finance from 2019 to 2024. She was Senior Policy Advisor at the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration from 2018 to 2019. Miller was Deputy Controller, Director of Policy in the Office of the State Controller from 2017 to 2018. She served as a Principal Consultant in the Office of the State Senate President pro Tempore from 2016 to 2018. Miller held several positions in the California State Senate, including Consultant in the Office of Research from 2014 to 2016, Staff Director for the Governance and Finance Committee from 2006 to 2014, and Principal Consultant at the Revenue and Taxation Committee from 2001 to 2005. She was Director of Government Affairs at Anthem Blue Cross from 2005 to 2006, Legislative Director in the Office of State Assemblymember Alan Lowenthal from 1999 to 2001, and a Legislative Aid and Assembly Fellow in the Office of State Assemblymember Tom Torlakson from 1997 to 1999. Miller earned a Master of Business Administration degree in Strategy and Communications from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Business Administration degree in Economics and Finance from Columbia University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Miller is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Jan 31, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom issued an executive order to maximize the capture and storage of additional water from upcoming storms in Northern California. SACRAMENTO — In anticipation of a multi-day, significant atmospheric river in Northern…

    Jan 30, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Jacqueline Yannacci, of Folsom, has been appointed Executive Director of California Volunteers in the Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement, where she has been Chief…

    Jan 30, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom is deploying resources and thousands of personnel to communities throughout Northern California in anticipation of a potentially major storm system. SACRAMENTO – With an atmospheric river expected to arrive in Northern…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hails Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hails Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector

    The middle class is always in PM Modi’s heart

    Now, no tax will have to be paid on income upto Rs.12 lakhs

    This budget, encompassing every sector from farmers, poor, middle class to education of women and children, nutrition, and health, as well as startups, innovation and investment, is the roadmap for Modi Ji’s vision of an AatmaNirbhar Bharat

    The budget is a reflection of the Modi government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers

    Budget-2025 gives wings to the dreams and aspirations of the youth

    Budget 2025 breathes new energy into life and development in cities through the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund

    Budget 2025 is a new opportunity and means for the prosperity of gig workers,Now, they will not only receive an identity card by registering on the e-Shram portal, but also get benefits of health facilities

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation congratulates Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji for the inclusive and farsighted budget

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 7:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah hailed Union Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector.Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah congratulated Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for this inclusive and farsighted budget.

    In a series of posts on X platform, Shri Amit Shah said that Union Budget 2025 as a blueprint for the Modi government’s vision for building a developed and premier India in every sector. He said that this budget, encompassing every sector from farmers, poor, middle class to education of women and children, nutrition, and health, as well as startups, innovation and investment, is the roadmap for Modi Ji’s vision of an AatmaNirbhar Bharat.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, the middle class is always in PM Modi’s heart. The Budget announcedzero income tax till ₹12 Lakh Income. The proposed tax exemption will go a long way in enhancing the financial well-being of the middle class, he added.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the budget reflects the Modi government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers. He said, the announcement of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana aims at increasing production capacity in the 100 lowest crop productivity districts, benefiting nearly 1.7 crore farmers. Additionally, Pulses Self-Reliance Mission and Cotton Productivity Mission will promote the prosperity of farmers and enhance nutritional security.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, from budget to the Cabinet, farmers are at the core of the Modi government’s schemes and policies. He said, in order to achieve self-reliance in urea production, the government has decided to set up a urea plant in Assam with a capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons in Budget 2025. Along with this, the decision to increase the loan amount under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh will provide significant relief to farmers.

    Shri Amit Shah congratulated MSME sector for the doubling of the credit guarantee cover, adding ₹1.5 lakh crore. He said this will scale up start-ups and foster manufacturing hubs. Shri Shah said that the budget’s focus on footwear, leather and toy manufacturing industries will spur jobs in the grassroots, advancing PM Modi Ji’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.

    Union Home Minister said, the UDAN scheme is proving to be beneficial in providing air connectivity to new cities and promoting affordable transportation. Shri Shah said, in Budget2025, the scheme will be expanded with 120 new airports to be developed across the country. He said that this will increase the capacity to accommodate an additional 4 crore air passengers and further enhance transportation in remote areas.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, PM Shri Narendra Modi gives new wings to the dreams and aspirations of our youth in the Union Budget 2025. He said that the goal to add 75,000 medical seats in five years, accommodate 6,500 more students in 5 IITs, and grant 10,000 research fellowships through IITs and IISc will refuel the growth engine of our nation with the technological prowess of our youth.

    Shri Amit Shah saidthat in order to further enrich the scientific mindset and aspirations for research among the youth of the country,Budget 2025 is extremely significant. Home Minister said that the decision to establish 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years will promote innovation among the new generation. He said that the announcement to set up 5 National Centres of Excellence for skill enhancement of the youth is commendable.

    Union Home Minister said,in Budget 2025, the Modi government has given important gifts to the people of Bihar. Shri Shah said, the establishment of the Makhana Board, the Western Koshi Canal Project in Mithilanchal, the expansion of IIT Patna, the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, and decisions related to the greenfield airport will make Bihar a hub for education, business, connectivity, farmer welfare, and employment in the coming years.

    Shri Amit Shah said, in Budget 2025, the announcement of making books available in digital format in Indian languages through the ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Yojana’ will breathe new life into Indian languages. This decision will prove to be crucial in connecting the new generation with Indian languages and making education more inclusive.

    Union Home Minister said, the Union Budget 2025 breathes new energy into life and development in cities through the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund. While the fund will revitalise our cities as the cradles of growth and quality life, the announcement of ₹1.5 lakh crore 50-year interest-free loans to states and a ploughback of capital of ₹10 lakh crore will further strengthen the purpose, he added.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the Budget 2025 unleashes Bharat’s gigantic strength in the power sector by announcing a mammoth ₹20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission. He said, the mission will impel Bharat to produce 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 while developing 5 indigenous small modular reactors. Also, the amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act will revitalise the industry with private sector investments.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, Budget 2025 equips our maritime and shipping industries with the winning edge. He said, with the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund and the extension of the exemption of BCD on raw materials, components, consumables, or parts for the manufacturing of ships for another ten years, these sectors are poised to dominate the competition in the global markets.

    Shri Amit Shah said, the Budget 2025 brings the healing touch to the lives of the ailing by providing full exemption from Basic Customs Duty on 36 lifesaving drugs & medicines and proposing day care cancer centres in all district hospitals in the next 3 years and 200 of them in 2025-26 alone.

    Union Home Minister said, Budget 2025 is also a new opportunity and means for the prosperity of gig workers. He said, now, gig workers will not only receive an identity card by registering on the e-Shram portal, but they will also get benefitsof health facilities. He said that with the expansion of the PM Svanidhi Yojana, street vendors will be able to link with UPI and avail credit cards up to ₹30,000, as well as receive more loans from banks.

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    Raj Kumar/Vivek/ Ashutosh/Priyabhanshu/ Pankaj

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh described Budget 2025 as a futuristic budget with a revolutionary and far reaching announcement to involve private players in the Nuclear sector

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh described Budget 2025 as a futuristic budget with a revolutionary and far reaching announcement to involve private players in the Nuclear sector

    Union Budget 2025-26 reflects sensitivity of the Government, futuristic vision of PM and gives a quantum stride towards realizing Viksit Bharat @2047, says Union S&T Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Nuclear Energy Mission envisaged by Hon’ble PM is not only going to add value to India’s vibrant economy but also giving us a lead in this arena ahead of several other countries: Dr. Singh

    It Is a paradigm shift in global perspective for the country as we target to generate 100 Gigawatt nuclear energy by 2047 which sends a huge message across the world: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 6:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh described Budget 2025 as a futuristic budget with a revolutionary and far reaching announcement to involve private players in the Nuclear sector. This announcement is going to startle the world, he said, and reflects the same  courage of conviction which PM Modi had demonstrated when he opened the Space sector to private sector and the outcomes were miraculous within a few years.

    Speaking to a series of media channels here today, Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Union Budget 2025-25 reflects sensitivity of the Government at the Centre and also the futuristic vision of  Prime Minister Narendra Modi . While its  sensitivity is reflected in the middle class relief to taxpayer and other measures like Duty exemption on certain life saving drugs, its long term futuristic  vision is reflected in provisions like Nuclear Mission, Small Modular Reactors, Green Tech Mission , Centre of Excellence for AI, etc, he said.

    It Is going to be a definitive  stride towards realizing Viksit Bharat @2047 and also going to raise India’s esteem in the global arena, the Minister said.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh appreciated the Budget with its sensitivity to ease of living because of it’s a middle class-focused with a lot of tax-relieved and ease of business as well. Terming the Budget citizen-centric, the Union Minister said, it is comprehensively encompassing the synergy of technology and tradition.

    The Minister referred to the Union Budget as very revolutionary with the bringing about an amendment in Atomic Energy Act in order to involve the private sector players something the Hon’ble Prime Minister had done a few years ago in the space sector. Dr. Singh further said, the Nuclear Energy Mission envisaged by the Prime Minister and announced by the Finance Minister is not only going to add value to India’s vibrant economy, not only carry onward a storehouse of green energy but also going to give us a lead ahead of several other countries in this arena. He, however, said, some of these aspects won’t give immediate dividends but will gradually percolate down our minds and in fact going to affect the entire world which are never per se expected from India.

    Appreciating the Union Budget for stimulating a paradigm shift in the global perspective of the country in the arena of nuclear energy, Dr. Singh said, we are also laying the target of generating 100 Gigawatt nuclear energy by 2047 which sends a huge message across the world that India is no longer a follower and we are giving lead and paving the way for others to follow. He also said, even the farming sector is giving the edge of technology with Rs. 20,000 Crore allocation for Small Modular Reactors(SMRs) and commitment to realize a minimum of five(5) SMRs by 2033 and the initiative itself is again a futuristic area with scientific and technological support to the farmers.

    The Union Minister said, additional Increase in startup support (Fund of Funds for startup FFS) by Rs. 10,000 Crore, provisions to install 50,000 more Atal Tinkering Labs in Government schools in the next five(5) years, to boost Maritime Development Fund with a corpus of Rs. 25,000 Crore and allocation of Rs. 20,000 Crore to boost Research and Development as well as  innovation will provide impetus to technology-led development for realization of Viksit Bharat@2047.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh further said, PM Research Fellowship scheme which will provide an ecosystem of 10,000 fellowships over the next five years at top notch institutions like IITs and IISc. He said, the ⁠setting up of National Geospatial Mission will lead to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data. He also said, the government will use PM Gati Shakti to facilitate modernisation of land records, urban planning and design of infrastructure projects. He said, the ⁠Second Gene bank with 10 lakhs germ plasma lines will be set up for future Food and Nutritional Security and conservation support from genetic resources in both public and private sectors.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Budget 2025-26 represents a significant milestone for the power sector paving the way for a secure, sustainable, resilient, and affordable energy future :Shri Manohar Lal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    The Budget 2025-26 represents a significant milestone for the power sector paving the way for a secure, sustainable, resilient, and affordable energy future :Shri Manohar Lal

    The focus on nuclear energy will strengthen the country’s power infrastructure and reduce dependence on conventional sources : Shri Manohar Lal

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 6:10PM by PIB Delhi

    This Union Budget 2025-26 aims to initiate transformative reforms across six domains during the next five years and these will augment our growth potential and global competitiveness, said Union Minister for Power and housing and Urban Affairs  Shri Manohar Lal.  He added that out of the six domains the two are:  Power Sector and Urban Development.

    The Budget 2025-26 represents a significant milestone for the power sector, ushering in transformative reforms that will drive India’s growth and pave the way for a secure, sustainable, resilient, and affordable energy future, said Union Minister for Power Shri Manohar Lal.

    Shri Manohar Lal remarked that the government’s dedication to improving the financial and operational stability of electricity distribution companies, coupled with incentives for enhancing intra-state transmission capacity, will greatly boost the efficiency of the power sector.

    He states that the announcement of fully exemption of  scrap of lithium-ion battery, Lead, Zinc and 12 more critical minerals from basic custom duty is also a welcome decision. This will help secure their availability for manufacturing of batteries in India and promote more jobs for our youth.  The budget also proposed to add 35 additional capital goods in exempted list for EV battery manufacturing for electric vehicles.

    Commending the emphasis on nuclear energy, he stated that the vision to develop at least 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047 underscores India’s ambitious yet essential transition towards clean energy.

    Welcoming the launch of the Nuclear Energy Mission, he highlighted that the ₹20,000 crore allocation for research and development in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) marks a significant step forward. He further emphasized that the target of operationalizing at least five indigenously developed SMRs by 2033 will strengthen India’s energy security and solidify its leadership in advanced nuclear technology.

    Union Minister for Power Shri Manohar Lal said that the focus on nuclear energy will strengthen the country’s power infrastructure and reduce dependence on conventional sources. This budget sets the stage for a resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy future, ensuring that India’s economic growth is powered by clean and reliable energy, he stated.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: North East Scotland leading the way on energy transition

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Scotland Office Minister’s visit to focus on clean energy

    • Recently launched Skills Passport allowing workers more flexibility to move between sectors 
    • North East companies shining example of clean energy initiatives and economic growth

    Scotland’s clean energy future will be top of the agenda as Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill visits Aberdeenshire and Angus today (Mon) to meet with companies at the cutting edge of the green revolution. 

    Minister McNeill will meet with the iconic Scottish brand, Mackie’s, who have invested in sustainable energy through wind turbines, solar panels and biomass projects at their base in Rothienorman, outside Inverurie. 

    As part of the UK Government’s commitment to a clean energy future for the North East, the Minister will also visit 3t Training Services in Dyce who are helping to provide training to energy workers looking to transfer their skills and experience in oil and gas into renewables. 

    Ahead of her visit, Ms McNeill said: 

    “The UK Government is committed to a clean energy future that helps economic growth and creates skilled jobs. We are already seeing fantastic examples of businesses in the North East who are leading the way and showing that cutting their emissions while continuing to grow go hand in hand. 

    “This is an exciting time for the region. With GB Energy being headquartered in Aberdeen, the north east is vital to our clean energy plans. 

    “As part of our Plan for Change, the UK Government, alongside the Scottish Government and industry, are working to remove the red tape for our skilled oil and gas workers who are looking to work in clean energy. These people have incredible skills and experience that should be utilised and we are ensuring they are supported through this transition. I’m looking forward to meeting with some of them as well as those helping to train them.” 

    Jamie Purves, General Manager at 3t’s Dyce training centre, emphasised the importance of upskilling and industry collaboration in ensuring a smooth energy transition. He said:

    “The North East has long been a centre of excellence in energy, and we are committed to making sure its workforce continues to thrive as the sector evolves. At 3t, we work closely with industry and Government to provide the specialist training and support needed to help energy professionals move seamlessly into renewables. 

    “The Skills Passport is a game-changer. It simplifies the transition process and ensures we retain the invaluable expertise developed in oil and gas. This is about securing a sustainable future while creating new opportunities for workers and businesses alike.”

    Working alongside the industry and Scottish Government, the UK Government has recently launched the Skills Passport initiative as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission. 

    Oil and gas workers will be able to access the skills passport online, which will initially help them identify routes into several roles in offshore wind, including construction and maintenance  – before being expanded over the coming year to recognise other pathways from oil and gas into the renewable sector.

    This is in addition to Aberdeen being identified as one of four key growth regions in the UK for clean energy. Work is ongoing to identify the skills support needed in their area to deliver clean power by 2030. 

    The minister will also meet with Montrose Port, a recent recipient of the Carbon Reduction Award at the Scottish Green Energy awards. The port, which helps service windfarms including Scotland’s largest – SSE’s Seagreen – is currently going through an expansion as demand for renewable projects increases.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mission 300 Energy Summit: A watershed moment for Africa’s energy future

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    The just-concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam marks a pivotal shift in how the continent approaches its energy crisis, from fragmented national efforts to a coordinated continental strategy backed by robust financial commitments and political will.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Unveils

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    January 30, 2025 – Pittsburgh, PA

    Governor Shapiro Unveils “Lightning Plan” to Strengthen Commonwealth’s Energy Leadership, Create Jobs, and Lower Costs for Consumers

    Governor Josh Shapiro visited Pittsburgh International Airport to announce the “Lightning Plan” – a comprehensive, all-of-the-above energy plan to secure Pennsylvania’s energy future. Supported by labor and industry leaders, environmental advocates, and consumer groups, Governor Shapiro‘s commonsense energy plan will create jobs, lower costs for consumers, protect Pennsylvania from global instability by building next generation power, and position the Commonwealth to continue to be a national energy leader for decades to come.

    The Governor made this announcement at Pittsburgh International Airport, the site of a groundbreaking $1.5 billion proposed partnership between KeyState Energy and CNX Resources. This type of project, aimed at accelerating hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, could position the region as a hub for next-generation energy solutions while supporting 3,000 construction jobs. This project is a prime example of the type of innovation the Lightning Plan will drive all across the Commonwealth.

    “Pennsylvania has long been a national energy leader, from Ben Franklin to today, but right now, we’re letting other states outcompete us and we’re losing out on jobs, new investment, and innovation – that has to change,” said Governor Shapiro. “My energy plan will power Pennsylvania forward by incentivizing the building of next generation energy projects in the Commonwealth. We have to meet this moment – and this plan builds on the work my Administration did last year to bring together leaders from the energy industry, organized labor and environmental groups, and consumer advocates to develop a plan for the future. I look forward to working with the General Assembly to get this commonsense plan to my desk so that we can lower costs for consumers, create more jobs, and position the Commonwealth to continue to be a national energy leader for decades to come.”

    Speaker list:
    Christina Cassotis, CEO, Allegheny County Airport Authority
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Congressman Chris Deluzio
    Gregory Bernarding, Business Manager, Pittsburgh Regional Building and Construction Trades Council
    Lt. Governor Austin Davis
    Stefani Pashman, CEO, Allegheny Conference on Community Development
    David Dardis, Executive Vice President, Constellation Energy
    Representative Rob Matzie
    Jackson Morris, Director of State Power Sector Policy, Climate & Energy, Natural Resources Defense Council

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada-U.S. tariff war: How it will impact different products and industries

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sylvanus Kwaku Afesorgbor, Associate Professor of Agri-Food Trade and Policy, University of Guelph

    U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed a 25 per cent tariff on most Canadian goods. A senior governmental official said they are expected to come into effect on Feb. 4.

    This tariff will have significant economic consequences on both sides of the border, as the U.S. and Canada share one of the largest bilateral trade relationships in the world.

    A key concern is the highly integrated supply chains between the two countries. Many goods cross the border multiple times as intermediate inputs before becoming final products. Imposing tariffs at any point in this supply chain will raise production costs and increase prices for a wide range of goods traded between the U.S. and Canada.

    For Canada, the tariffs on Canadian products will significantly affect Canada’s competitiveness in the U.S. market by driving up prices. Such tariffs could pose serious challenges for various sectors in Canada, given the country’s heavy reliance on the U.S. economy.

    Effects on different sectors

    The impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian prices is likely to differ across sectors and products, depending on their reliance on the U.S. market.

    Sectors with a higher dependence on U.S. trade are likely to experience more severe disruptions. If the tariffs make certain products uncompetitive, Canadian producers may struggle to secure alternative markets in the short term.

    Industries such as agriculture, manufacturing and energy will experience varying degrees of impact. Energy products and motor vehicles, which represent Canada’s largest exports to the U.S., are expected to be among the most adversely affected.

    In the agricultural and forestry sector, wood and paper products, along with cereals, are among Canada’s largest exports to the U.S., with the U.S. accounting for 86 to 96 per cent of these exports, according to data from the World Integrated Trade Solution.

    In the energy and mineral sector, crude oil is Canada’s top export, reaching US$143 billion in 2023, with 90 per cent destined for the U.S. Given its critical role as Canada’s largest export across all sectors, it is not surprising that Trump has noted crude oil would subject to a lower tariff of 10 per cent.

    Canada’s dependence on U.S. trade

    When examining the impact on different products, it’s not only the value of trade that matters, but also the share of trade. The share of trade indicates how reliant Canada is on the U.S. compared to other markets.

    A high trade share with the U.S. suggests a product is particularly vulnerable to trade disruptions, as Canada depends heavily on the U.S. market for that product. Conversely, a lower share indicates that Canada has diversified suppliers, which reduces its dependence on the U.S.



    Read more:
    Trump’s tariff threat could shake North American trade relations and upend agri-food trade

    For instance, in 2023, Canada’s top exports to the U.S. included vehicles and parts, nuclear machinery and plastics, according to data from the World Integrated Trade Solution. The U.S. accounted for 93 per cent of vehicle and parts exports, 82 per cent of nuclear machinery exports, and 91 per cent of plastics exports.

    This data highlights Canada’s extreme dependence on the U.S. market, making these industries within the manufacturing sector highly susceptible to the tariff. This could harm jobs in the manufacturing sector, which is vital to employment in Canada, providing jobs for over 1.8 million people.

    Canada’s reliance on the U.S. is also evident in imports. In 2023, vehicle imports totalled US$92 billion, with the U.S. accounting for 58 per cent of that amount.

    The dependence is also evident in the agri-food and forestry sector, where Canada heavily relies on U.S. imports. This suggests that retaliatory tariffs on agricultural goods from the U.S. could have a substantial impact on food prices in Canada.

    Retaliatory tariffs and inflationary pressures

    Canada has announced it’s imposing $155 billion of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports in response. This could contribute to inflationary pressures within Canada.

    Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says this includes immediate tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods as of Tuesday, followed by further tariffs on $125 billion worth of American products in 21 days’ time to “allow Canadian companies and supply chains to seek to find alternatives.”

    This will include tariffs on “everyday items such as American beer, wine and bourbon, fruits and fruit juices, including orange juice, along with vegetables, perfume, clothing and shoes,” and also on major consumer products like household appliances, furniture and sports equipment, and materials like lumber and plastics.

    Given Canada’s significant dependence on U.S. imports, the retaliatory tariffs will raise the cost of American goods entering the country, further driving up consumer prices and exacerbating inflation.

    In its latest policy rate announcement, the Bank of Canada warned of the severe economic consequences of Trump’s tariffs, highlighting their potential to reverse the current downward trend in inflation.

    What should Canada do now?

    Canada must extend its economic diplomacy efforts beyond the Trump administration, engaging with the U.S. Congress and Senate to advocate for the reconsideration of tariffs on Canadian goods. The Canadian government should persist in leveraging this channel to push for a reversal of the tariffs. This kind of broader negotiation remains the most effective approach to mitigating trade tensions and ensuring stable economic relations with the U.S.

    At the same time, Canada must reduce dependence on the U.S. market by adopting a comprehensive export diversification strategy. While the U.S. remains a convenient and accessible trade partner, expanding into emerging and developing markets would help mitigate risks and create more stable long-term trade opportunities.



    Read more:
    Trump’s tariff threat is a sign that Canada should be diversifying beyond the U.S.

    One effective way to achieve export diversification is by expanding free trade agreements (FTAs) with emerging and developing economies. Currently, Canada has 15 FTAs covering about 51 countries, but there is room for expansion. However, signing FTAs alone is insufficient; Canada must ensure these agreements translate into tangible trade growth with partner countries.

    International politics is increasingly shaping global trade, making it imperative for Canada to proactively manage diplomatic and trade relations. In recent years, tensions have emerged with key partners such as China, India and Saudi Arabia. These countries could all become potential markets for Canadian products. Given that China is Canada’s second-largest export destination, there is significant potential to expand trade ties.

    Additionally, countries like the United Arab Emirates present promising markets, particularly for agricultural products, as the UAE imports about 90 per cent of its food.

    Boosting innovation and productivity

    Canada stands at a critical juncture in its trade relationship with the U.S. While diplomatic efforts remain essential to averting harmful tariffs, they cannot be the country’s only line of defence.

    Boosting productivity is one of the most effective ways for Canada to improve its competitiveness in global markets. Canadian producers should prioritize innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and maintain a competitive edge, particularly as they seek to expand beyond the U.S.

    In response to potential U.S. tariffs, the Canadian government should implement a bailout strategy to provide short-term relief and mitigate revenue losses to firms that will be mostly affected. Additionally, Canada should leverage its embassies and consulates worldwide to promote exports and help affected firms identify and access new market opportunities.

    By doing this, Canada can position itself as a more self-reliant and competitive player in the global economy — one less vulnerable to shifting U.S. policies.

    Sylvanus Kwaku Afesorgbor receives funding from the OMAFRA and the USDA. He is affiliated with the Centre for Trade Analysis and Development (CeTAD Africa).

    Naduni Uduwe Welage and Promesse Essolema do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Canada-U.S. tariff war: How it will impact different products and industries – https://theconversation.com/canada-u-s-tariff-war-how-it-will-impact-different-products-and-industries-248824

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Imposing Duties to Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our National Border

    Source: The White House

         By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) (NEA), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code,

    I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, find that the sustained influx of illicit opioids and other drugs has profound consequences on our Nation, endangering lives and putting a severe strain on our healthcare system, public services, and communities.

    This challenge threatens the fabric of our society.  Gang members, smugglers, human traffickers, and illicit drugs of all kinds have poured across our borders and into our communities.  Canada has played a central role in these challenges, including by failing to devote sufficient attention and resources or meaningfully coordinate with United States law enforcement partners to effectively stem the tide of illicit drugs.

    Drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) are the world’s leading producers of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and other illicit drugs, and they cultivate, process, and distribute massive quantities of narcotics that fuel addiction and violence in communities across the United States.  These DTOs often collaborate with transnational cartels to smuggle illicit drugs into the United States, utilizing clandestine airstrips, maritime routes, and overland corridors. 

    The challenges at our southern border are foremost in the public consciousness, but our northern border is not exempt from these issues.  Criminal networks are implicated in human trafficking and smuggling operations, enabling unvetted illegal migration across our northern border.  There is also a growing presence of Mexican cartels operating fentanyl and nitazene synthesis labs in Canada.  The flow of illicit drugs like fentanyl to the United States through both illicit distribution networks and international mail — due, in the case of the latter, to the existing administrative exemption from duty and taxes, also known as de minimis, under section 1321 of title 19, United States Code — has created a public health crisis in the United States, as outlined in the Presidential Memorandum of January 20, 2025 (America First Trade Policy) and Executive Order 14157 of January 20, 2025 (Designating Cartels and Other Organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists).  With respect to smuggling of illicit drugs across our northern border, Canada’s Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre recently published a study on the laundering of proceeds of illicit synthetic opioids, which recognized Canada’s heightened domestic production of fentanyl, largely from British Columbia, and its growing footprint within international narcotics distribution.  Despite a North American dialogue on the public health impacts of illicit drugs since 2016, Canadian officials have acknowledged that the problem has only grown.  And while U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) within the Department of Homeland Security seized, comparatively, much less fentanyl from Canada than from Mexico last year, fentanyl is so potent that even a very small parcel of the drug can cause many deaths and destruction to America families.  In fact, the amount of fentanyl that crossed the northern border last year could kill 9.5 million Americans.

    Immediate action is required to finally end this public health crisis and national emergency, which will not happen unless the compliance and cooperation of Canada is assured.

    I hereby determine and order:

         Section 1.  (a)  As President of the United States, my highest duty is the defense of the country and its citizens.  A Nation without borders is not a nation at all.  I will not stand by and allow our sovereignty to be eroded, our laws to be trampled, our citizens to be endangered, or our borders to be disrespected anymore.

    I previously declared a national emergency with respect to the grave threat to the United States posed by the influx of illegal aliens and illicit drugs into the United States in Proclamation 10886 of January 20, 2025 (Declaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border).  Pursuant to the NEA, I hereby expand the scope of the national emergency declared in that Proclamation to cover the threat to the safety and security of Americans, including the public health crisis of deaths due to the use of fentanyl and other illicit drugs, and the failure of Canada to do more to arrest, seize, detain, or otherwise intercept DTOs, other drug and human traffickers, criminals at large, and drugs.  In addition, this failure to act on the part of Canada constitutes an unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in substantial part outside the United States, to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.  I hereby declare and reiterate a national emergency under the NEA and IEEPA to deal with that threat.  This national emergency requires decisive and immediate action, and I have decided to impose, consistent with law, ad valorem tariffs on articles that are products of Canada set forth in this order.  In doing so, I invoke my authority under section 1702(a)(1)(B) of IEEPA and specifically find that action under other authority to impose tariffs is inadequate to address this unusual and extraordinary threat.

         Sec. 2.  (a)  All articles that are products of Canada as defined by the Federal Register notice described in subsection (e) of this section (Federal Register notice), and except for those products described in subsection (b) of this section, shall be, consistent with law, subject to an additional 25 percent ad valorem rate of duty.  Such rate of duty shall apply with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern time on February 4, 2025, except that goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, after such time that were loaded onto a vessel at the port of loading or in transit on the final mode of transport prior to entry into the United States before 12:01 a.m. eastern time on February 1, 2025, shall not be subject to such additional duty, only if the importer certifies to CBP as specified in the Federal Register notice. 

    (b)  With respect to energy or energy resources, as defined in section 8 of Executive Order 14156 of January 20, 2025 (Declaring a National Energy Emergency), and as otherwise included in the Federal Register notice, such articles that are products of Canada as defined by the Federal Register notice shall be, consistent with law, subject to an additional 10 percent ad valorem rate of duty.  Such rate of duty shall apply with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern time on February 4, 2025, except that goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, after such time that were loaded onto a vessel at the port of loading or in transit on the final mode of transport prior to entry into the United States before 12:01 a.m. eastern time on February 1, 2025, shall not be subject to such additional duty, only if the importer certifies to CBP as specified in the Federal Register notice.  

    (c)  The rates of duty established by this order are in addition to any other duties, fees, exactions, or charges applicable to such imported articles. 

    (d)  Should Canada retaliate against the United States in response to this action through import duties on United States exports to Canada or similar measures, the President may increase or expand in scope the duties imposed under this order to ensure the efficacy of this action.

    (e)  In order to establish the duty rate on imports of articles that are products of Canada, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall determine the modifications necessary to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) in order to effectuate this order consistent with law and shall make such modifications to the HTSUS through notice in the Federal Register.  The modifications made to the HTSUS by this notice shall be effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern time on February 4, 2025, and shall continue in effect until such actions are expressly reduced, modified, or terminated.

    (f)  Articles that are products of Canada, except those that are eligible for admission under “domestic status” as defined in 19 CFR 146.43, which are subject to the duties imposed by this order and are admitted into a United States foreign trade zone on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern time on February 4, 2025, except as otherwise noted in subsections (a) and (b) of this section, must be admitted as “privileged foreign status” as defined in 19 CFR 146.41.  Such articles will be subject upon entry for consumption to the rates of duty related to the classification under the applicable HTSUS subheading in effect at the time of admittance into the United States foreign trade zone. 

    (g)  No drawback shall be available with respect to the duties imposed pursuant to this order. 

    (h)  For avoidance of doubt, duty-free de minimis treatment under 19 U.S.C. 1321 shall not be available for the articles described in subsection (a) and subsection (b) of this section.

         (i)  Any prior Presidential Proclamation, Executive Order, or other Presidential directive or guidance related to trade with Canada that is inconsistent with the direction in this order is hereby terminated, suspended, or modified to the extent necessary to give full effect to this order. 

         (j)  The articles described in subsection (a) and subsection (b) of this section shall exclude those encompassed by 50 U.S.C. 1702(b).

         Sec. 3.  (a)  The Secretary of Homeland Security shall regularly consult with the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security on the situation at our northern border.  The Secretary of Homeland Security shall inform the President of any circumstances that, in the opinion of the Secretary of Homeland Security, indicate that the Government of Canada has taken adequate steps to alleviate this public health crisis through cooperative enforcement actions.  Upon the President’s determination of sufficient action to alleviate the crisis, the tariffs described in section 2 of this order shall be removed.

    (b)  The Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, shall recommend additional action, if necessary, should the Government of Canada fail to take adequate steps to alleviate the illegal migration and illicit drug crises through cooperative enforcement actions.

         Sec. 4.  The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of Commerce, is hereby authorized to take such actions, including adopting rules and regulations, and to employ all powers granted to the President by IEEPA as may be necessary to implement this order.  The Secretary of Homeland Security may, consistent with applicable law, redelegate any of these functions within the Department of Homeland Security.  All executive departments and agencies shall take all appropriate measures within their authority to implement this order.

         Sec. 5.  The Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Commerce, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, is hereby authorized to submit recurring and final reports to the Congress on the national emergency under IEEPA declared in this order, consistent with section 401(c) of the NEA (50 U.S.C. 1641(c)) and section 204(c) of IEEPA (50 U.S.C. 1703(c)).

         Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or

    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        February 1, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Condemns President Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs on Canada and Mexico that Will Raise Costs for Americans and Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement in response to President Trump imposing sweeping 25 percent tariffs on imported goods from Canada and Mexico, which economists have warned could stoke further inflation, slow economic growth and raise prices on consumers: 
    “Putting far-reaching tariffs on our neighbors and close trading partners is going to spike costs for our families, businesses and workers. It’s a fact that hardworking American consumers and small businesses will be forced to foot the bill of the President’s price hikes, not foreign countries. 
    “Because of this misguided, politically motivated action, the cost of everything from cars and gas to housing and groceries will increase—and Americans struggling to make ends meet will be hit the hardest. While that might not matter to Donald Trump and his entourage of billionaires, it matters deeply to the people in my state. 
    “As always, I stand ready to work with anyone to make life more affordable. It’s a shame that the President has chosen to play politics instead of delivering for the families we serve.” 
    Yesterday, Shaheen led the New Hampshire Congressional delegation in urging the President not to place sweeping tariffs on imports, especially from our Canadian and Mexican neighbors, citing how it would dramatically increase costs for families and small businesses across the Granite State.  
    Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools.   
    After the November election, a multitude of business leaders warned that if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Imposes Tariffs on Imports from Canada, Mexico and China

    Source: The White House

    ADDRESSING AN EMERGENCY SITUATION: The extraordinary threat posed by illegal aliens and drugs, including deadly fentanyl, constitutes a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

    • Until the crisis is alleviated, President Donald J. Trump is implementing a 25% additional tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico and a 10% additional tariff on imports from China.  Energy resources from Canada will have a lower 10% tariff.
    • President Trump is taking bold action to hold Mexico, Canada, and China accountable to their promises of halting illegal immigration and stopping poisonous fentanyl and other drugs from flowing into our country.
    • The orders make clear that the flow of contraband drugs like fentanyl to the United States, through illicit distribution networks, has created a national emergency, including a public health crisis. Chinese officials have failed to take the actions necessary to stem the flow of precursor chemicals to known criminal cartels and shut down money laundering by transnational criminal organizations.
      • In addition, the Mexican drug trafficking organizations have an intolerable alliance with the government of Mexico. The government of Mexico has afforded safe havens for the cartels to engage in the manufacturing and transportation of dangerous narcotics, which collectively have led to the overdose deaths of hundreds of thousands of American victims. This alliance endangers the national security of the United States, and we must eradicate the influence of these dangerous cartels.
      • There is also a growing presence of Mexican cartels operating fentanyl and nitazene synthesis labs in Canada.  A recent study recognized Canada’s heightened domestic production of fentanyl, and its growing footprint within international narcotics distribution

    USING OUR LEVERAGE TO ENSURE AMERICANS’ SAFETY: Previous Administrations failed to fully leverage America’s economic position as a tool to secure our borders against illegal migration and combat the scourge of fentanyl, preferring to let problems fester.

    • Access to the American market is a privilege. The United States has one of the most open economies in the world, and the lowest average tariff rates in the world.
    • While trade accounts for 67% of Canada’s GDP, 73% of Mexico’s GDP, and 37% of China’s GDP, it accounts for only 24% of U.S. GDP. However, in 2023 the U.S. trade deficit in goods was the world’s largest at over $1 trillion.
    • Tariffs are a powerful, proven source of leverage for protecting the national interest.  President Trump is using the tools at hand and taking decisive action that puts Americans’ safety and our national security first.
    • Though previous Administrations have failed to leverage America’s combination of exceptional strength and its unique role in world trade to advance the security interests of the American people, President Trump has not.

    PRESIDENT TRUMP IS KEEPING HIS PROMISE TO STOP THE FLOOD OF ILLEGAL ALIENS AND DRUGS: When voters overwhelmingly elected Donald J. Trump as President, they gave him a mandate to seal the border. That is exactly what he is doing.

    • The Biden Administration’s policies have fueled the worst border crisis in U.S. history.
    • More than 10 million illegal aliens attempted to enter the United States under Biden’s leadership, including a rising number of Chinese nationals and people on the terror watchlist.
    • This problem is not confined to the southern border – encounters at the northern border with Canada are rising as well.
    • The sustained influx of illegal aliens has profound consequences on every aspect of our national life – overwhelming our schools, lowering our wages, reducing our housing supply and raising rents, overcrowding our hospitals, draining our welfare system, and causing crime.  
    • Gang members, smugglers, human traffickers, and illegal drugs and narcotics of all kinds are pouring across our borders and into our communities.
      • Last fiscal year, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) apprehended more than 21,000 pounds of fentanyl at our borders, enough fentanyl to kill more than 4 billion people.
      • It is estimated that federal officials are only able to seize a fraction of the fentanyl smuggled across the southern border.  
    • These drugs kill tens of thousands of Americans each year, including 75,000 deaths per year attributed to fentanyl alone.
      • More Americans are dying from fentanyl overdoses each year than the number of American lives lost in the entirety of the Vietnam War.

    BUILDING ON PAST SUCCESS: President Trump continues to demonstrate his commitment to ensuring U.S. trade policy serves the national interest.

    • As President Trump said in the Presidential Memorandum on American First Trade Policy, trade policy is a critical component in national security.
    • President Trump promised in November to “sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25% Tariff on ALL products coming into the United States, and its ridiculous Open Borders. This Tariff will remain in effect until such time as Drugs, in particular Fentanyl, and all Illegal Aliens stop this Invasion of our Country!”
    • During his first term as President of the United States, President Trump established the President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis and declared the Opioid Crisis a public health emergency.
    • President Trump also has a long record of putting America first on trade. In his first term, President Trump successfully used threats of tariffs on Mexico to help secure our border.
    • When our national security was threatened by a global oversupply of steel and aluminum, President Trump took swift action to protect America’s national security by implementing tariffs on imports of these goods.
    • In response to China’s intellectual property theft, forced technology transfer, and other unreasonable behavior, President Trump acted with conviction to impose tariffs on imports from China, using that leverage to reach a historic bilateral economic agreement.
    • Just last week, President Trump leveraged tariffs to successfully resolve national security concerns with Colombia, swiftly reaching an outcome that prioritizes the safety and security of the American people and the sanctity of our national borders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mission 300: African leaders pledge to advance clean cooking solutions for Africa at milestone Energy Summit

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

    DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, February 1, 2025/APO Group/ —

    African countries have taken bold commitments to implement clean cooking energy solutions to offset the devastating effects of open fire cooking which kills roughly 600,000 women and children annually across the continent.

    In energy compacts (apo-opa.co/40Fdx4z) signed during the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, held in Tanzania 27-28 January, 12 African countries signalled their intent to  accelerate the pace of access to electricity and clean cooking solutions on the world’s fastest-growing continent, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 7 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 (apo-opa.co/40X7qK8).

    Commending these countries, Tanzanian President Suluhu Hassan stated in closing remarks: “I understand that the 12 governments have only pioneered, and many others will join us in the future.” Earlier, at the opening speaking about the purpose of the summit she said, “This gathering is a platform to consolidate commitments, announce new partnerships and drive momentum towards the 2030 goal.”

    The two-day meeting (apo-opa.co/40GUtCH) was organized by the Government of Tanzania and Mission 300, an unprecedented collaboration between the African Development Bank Group, the World Bank Group and global partners, to address Africa’s electricity access gap through the use of new technology and innovative financing.

    Moderating a special panel on clean cooking on Monday, Rashid Abdallah, Executive Director of the African Energy Commission (AFREC) (apo-opa.co/40Es3JJ), noted that whilst 600 million Africans live without access to electricity, one billion -nearly double the number – were without access to clean cooking, relying on biomass fuels such as wood and charcoal, with severe economic, social and environmental impact. Conservative estimates put the cost of this across the continent to $790 billion a year, he noted.

    Abdallah was joined by Dr. Richard Muyungi, Special Envoy to the President of Tanzania, Peter Scott, CEO of Burn Manufacturing (apo-opa.co/40Vxy8b), and Martin Kimani, CEO of M-Gas (apo-opa.co/3CtCZBZ), who each highlighted the significant health, environmental, and economic impacts of relying on polluting fuels for cooking, as well as the innovative approaches being developed to address this crisis.

    Muyungi shared Tanzania’s experience in launching a comprehensive National Clean Cooking Strategy, emphasizing the importance of high-level political commitment, coordinated stakeholder engagement, and the integration of private sector participation. 

    He praised President Hassan’s role as a global champion bringing the issue to the highest level of African governments.

    “It is important to elevate it to the highest level… She is the champion of clean cooking,” he said.  He stressed: “It’s important that there is a champion who can elevate clean cooking in terms of partnerships and partner with others to address this issue. He added that Tanzania is on track to transition 80 percent of its population to clean cooking technologies by 2034, thanks to the efforts of President Hassan.

    Scott, whose company Burn Manufacturing is the largest clean cooking manufacturer in Africa, discussed the diverse range of solutions being deployed across the continent, from fuel-efficient biomass stoves to cutting-edge electric cooking appliances with pay-as-you-go financing models. He stressed the availability of funding for clean cooking projects, pending the approval of carbon credit regulations by governments.

    “This is the most exciting time in the history of clean cooking,” Scott declared. “Now, there’s a lot of money standing by to approve carbon credit regulations to allow carbon trading, carbon finance, to grow. “

    Kimani’s pioneering pay-as-you-cook LPG model has provided an innovative and affordable solution to enable households to transition to clean cooking. He shared the success of M-Gas in onboarding half a million households in Kenya and Tanzania within just three years, demonstrating the scalability of this approach. “One of the most important considerations is affordability, how do we close that gap?” he asked.

    M-Gas has found an answer by installing IOT enabled smart meters which are fixed into gas cylinders without upfront payment.

    “We mirror the (pay as you go) environment they can now cook using LPG. With 35 cents they can cook three meals in a day,” he added.

    Tanzania pioneers clean cooking and global awareness

    Tanzania published its clean cooking strategy in 2024-2034 last year in response to its own challenges – 3,000 people dying annually and the effects of a devastating 400 hectares of deforestation annually from the use of charcoal and firewood.

    Championed by President Hassan, the Clean Cooking agenda has embraced everyone and is part of the national agenda, Muyungi said. “This discussion has highlighted the innovative approaches, and the political will required to transform the lives of millions of Africans and secure a sustainable future for the continent.”

    In a recognition of national efforts, awards were handed out to winners of a national clean cooking innovation challenge on the first day of the summit. The winners included creators of a biogas production plant and a click gas LPG delivery system.

    The African Development Bank Group has pledged $2 billion over 10 years towards clean cooking solutions in Africa. The pledge represents an important contribution to the $4 billion per year needed to allow African families to have access to clean cooking by 2030.

    “Why should anybody have to die just for trying to cook a decent meal that is taken for granted in other parts of the world,” African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina asked during a discussion as part of the summit. “Africa must develop with dignity, with pride. Its women, its population must have access to clean energy solutions.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Kaptur Demand Answers on Trump Administration Freezing Energy Department Investments to Lower Americans’ Energy Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, DC — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair and Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development Ranking Member, and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, wrote a letter to the Acting Secretary of the Department of Energy demanding answers about the Trump administration withholding critical investments to lower energy costs for American families and businesses, spur innovation, and strengthen our energy security.

    In the letter, Murray and Kaptur state: “We write expressing deep concerns regarding the Department of Energy’s recent unlawful actions to halt programs that are imperative to the Department’s mission of ensuring America’s security and prosperity by addressing the nation’s energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.”

    “The Department’s actions to halt these programs will immediately contribute to rising energy costs for families and businesses, and they are a dereliction of the Department’s responsibility to carry out duly enacted spending laws,” Murray and Kaptur continued.

    Murray and Kaptur note that President Trump’s executive order illegally freezing Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funding is creating unacceptable chaos, confusion, and harm.

    In particular, they note that the order and a variety of other actions the administration has taken will hurt American families and businesses: “Stopping these programs is taking money from the pockets of Americans. For example, the Home Energy Rebates programs, funded by the IRA, has been putting money directly back in the hands of American households. The rebates help consumers save money on select home improvement projects that can lower energy bills by providing up to $14,000 per household in rebates. It is estimated that these programs will save households up to $1 billion per year on energy bills and support over 50,000 U.S. jobs. The President’s attempt to freeze the Home Energy Rebates Program means these costs will fall back on American consumers.”

    Murray and Kaptur press the Department for answers about what funding it is currently freezing and other actions it is taking to halt critical programs, and concluded: “We hope you will work with us—not against us—to lower energy costs and help create good-paying jobs, but we demand that you follow the law as intended.”

    A timeline of President Trump’s actions to freeze critical federal funding is available HERE. Fact sheets detailing how presidents lack power to unilaterally override spending laws and deny enacted funding to communities through impoundment can be found HERE and HERE.

    Full text of the letter is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: High-tech inspections bolster high-speed rail safety amid Spring Festival rush

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

    NANJING, Feb. 1 — At midnight, after a busy day, a high-speed train rolls into Nanjing South Railway Station, a key hub in east China’s Jiangsu Province. Here, a team of technicians and intelligent robots stand ready to perform inspection tasks.

    Using laser radar navigation and positioning technology, the robots move smoothly along tracks. Equipped with two articulated arms featuring imaging devices, they adjust height and angle, meticulously scanning the train’s underside and components, while transmitting real-time artificial intelligence (AI) analysis for further review.

    During this year’s 40-day Spring Festival travel rush, which began on Jan. 14, China’s railway network is expected to transport 510 million passengers, with around 14,000 trains operating daily. To ensure operational safety during this high-traffic period, trains must undergo rigorous inspections every three days of service.

    Inspecting these sophisticated trains is no small task. A standard eight-carriage high-speed railway requires a comprehensive check of more than 10,000 components, from bolt tightness to oil leakage and component wear.

    “The manual inspection of a standard train requires at least two inspectors working for two and a half hours. With the use of robots, the process is reduced to just one hour, and staff only need 10 minutes for a final review — tripling efficiency compared to manual inspections, while also improving our working conditions,” said Qi Zhengang, an inspector at the railway station.

    Currently, intelligent inspection robots are deployed not only in Jiangsu but also in railway stations across cities like Jinan, Beijing and Shanghai.

    Across the country, a variety of high-tech solutions are being implemented to ensure the safety of the high-speed rail network during the travel surge.

    Electricity is the primary power source for high-speed trains. To meet soaring energy demand, the Haogang substation in south China’s Guangdong Province has adopted drones equipped with infrared, ultraviolet and sonic imagers to patrol the Shenzhen section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong high-speed railway.

    With the technology, invisible currents can be converted into visual patterns, cutting the maintenance time from 30 minutes to 15 minutes, said Tan Chuanbin, an employee at the substation.

    Featuring a wide field of view and AI-driven analysis, drones are also used to monitor and assess precarious rock formations and geological hazards along railway tracks in mountainous regions such as southwest China’s Guizhou and Sichuan.

    China’s high-speed rail network has seen extraordinary growth. In 2010, the country had 8,358 kilometers of operational high-speed rail. The number had skyrocketed to 48,000 kilometers by the end of 2024.

    “China’s high-speed rail advancements are built on continuous technological innovation,” said Duan Wei, deputy chief of the high-speed rail infrastructure department of the Huai’an section of Jiangsu.

    “Looking ahead, we expect AI and the Internet of Things to be further integrated, enhancing real-time monitoring and predictive warnings to better ensure passenger safety,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Leading for Iowa as Chair of Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) will be the top Republican on the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit in the 119th Congress.
    This important subset of the Senate Agriculture Committee oversees rural development loan and grant programs, renewable energy, and farm loan programs. As subcommittee chair, Senator Ernst will lead discussions on essential resources for farmers, biofuel producers, and rural communities while continuing to advocate for Iowans as Congress works on a Farm Bill.
    “I’m thrilled to be Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit this Congress,” said Senator Ernst. “From building certainty and clarity into biofuel policies to creating a Farm Bill that delivers real results for those who feed and fuel our world, Iowans and the issues that matter to them will always have a seat at the table under my leadership. I look forward to working on solutions to support Iowa and American agriculture.”
    Mark Jensen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Farm Credit Services of America
    “Farm Credit Services of America proudly congratulates Senator Joni Ernst on her appointment as Chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit. Senator Ernst’s unwavering dedication to the vitality and prosperity of rural communities across America is truly commendable. Senator Ernst is poised to steer the discussion and shape legislation to strengthen our agriculture sector, foster innovation, and drive economic success to ensure our rural communities continue to thrive. We stand in support and are committed to collaborating with Senator Ernst and her subcommittee to fulfill the Farm Credit System mission of providing reliable and consistent credit and financial services, today and for the future.”
    Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association
    “Senator Ernst has been a fierce advocate for agriculture and biofuels, prioritizing Iowa farmers and keeping the U.S. a dominant energy leader. IRFA members look forward to working with the Senator as chair of the subcommittee while she continues to champion higher biofuel blends and opening up new markets for farmers at home and abroad. Expanding the production and use of biofuels is the single best tool we have to enhance rural economies.”
    Brent Swart, Iowa Soybean Association President and farmer from Spencer
    “We are supportive of Senator Ernst’s chairmanship of the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit. We are confident that the Senator will advocate for policies that create access to the tools and resources Iowa farmers and rural communities need to thrive. We look forward to continue working with her to position soybean growers for success.”
    Iowa Farm Bureau
    “The Iowa Farm Bureau applauds Senator Ernst’s leadership on these important issues to our farmers and rural communities.  Her work has been vital to the continued success of agriculture in Iowa and across the country, and we appreciate the commitment she has to rural America.”
    Background:
    Ernst works tirelessly on behalf of Iowa farmers and producers.
    Within the subcommittee’s jurisdiction, she is a leading advocate for homegrown, Iowa biofuels. Ernst has fought to expand the availability of upgraded fuel infrastructure, which is essential to bringing consumers higher blends of renewable fuel like E15 and B20. She has also made biofuels an important component of domestic energy security through her work to accelerate the production and development of sustainable aviation fuel.
    Ernst has taken action to ensure rural Iowa has access to essential resources for everything from propane storage to child care. She has also been on the front lines of helping Iowa farmers get the resources they need to recover from natural disasters and will keep working to find new markets for our producers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff, Colleagues Call on EPA Administrator Zeldin to Provide Valid Legal Basis for Dangerous EPA Funding Freeze

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Schiff, Colleagues Call on EPA Administrator Zeldin to Provide Valid Legal Basis for Dangerous EPA Funding Freeze

    Zeldin rubber stamps Trump’s crippling funding freeze and violates federal law, threatening jobs and jeopardizing infrastructure projects

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) joined Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and all Democratic members of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee in demanding answers from newly confirmed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin about the agency’s freezing of congressionally appropriated funds, including those that have already been obligated.

    According to public reporting, EPA sent letters to grant recipients explaining it was pausing “all funding actions related to” the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Not only are these funding cuts already having devastating effects on communities — with reports of jobs in jeopardy and essential infrastructure projects on the chopping block — but failing to allow grant recipients to access funds that have already been obligated violates federal law.

    “We write concerning troubling reports that the Environmental Protection Agency is attempting to claw back funds that have already been obligated to grant recipients. We believe that this is contrary to federal law,” wrote the Senators. “… Many of us have also been contacted by grantees in our states reporting that they no longer have access to the grant money that has been obligated to them.”

    “Federal law and regulations require that obligated funds be provided to grantees absent proof of misuse of funds,” continued the Senators. “We further note that the Solar for All program furthers several goals, all of which are part of EPA’s core mission, which you support. It is designed to help reduce carbon pollution, air pollutants, and household energy costs by financing community and rooftop solar in low-income communities. It will further help drive American manufacturing, boosting the economy and creating jobs.” 

    The Senators further pressed Administrator Zeldin on his failure to abide by the commitments he made to members of the EPW committee during his confirmation hearing. When asked if he believed the President or executive branch could ignore congressional appropriations decisions and instructions, then-nominee Zeldin responded, “If confirmed, I pledge to respect all of Congress’ duly enacted statutes.” When asked if he pledged to respect congressional appropriations decisions and instructions and resist any efforts within the executive branch to circumvent them, he reaffirmed his commitment to executing EPA’s mission and recognized Congress’ power of the purse, stating “Particularly as a former Member of Congress, I appreciate and respect the congressional funding process. I commit to fully following the law.”

    But it appears that in his first days as EPA Administrator, Zeldin is already allowing President Trump to pull the strings at EPA by failing to address these funding freezes that undermine EPA’s core mission and run contrary to federal law. 

    Accordingly, the Senators demanded that Administrator Zeldin provide a valid legal justification for the funding freezes and explain when he plans restore the availability of the funds to grant recipients.

    In addition to Senators Padilla, Schiff, and Whitehouse, the letter is also signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Administrator Zeldin:

    We write concerning troubling reports that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is attempting to claw back funds that have already been obligated to grant recipients. We believe that this is contrary to federal law.

    On January 30, 2025, Politico’s E&E News reported that the EPA had sent letters two days prior to recipients of funding through the Solar for All program informing them that their grants had been paused until further notice. EPA’s letter went on to explain that it was pausing “all funding actions related to” climate and infrastructure laws enacted during the Biden Administration, citing President Donald J. Trump’s “Unleashing American Energy” Executive Order. Many of us have also be contacted by grantees in our states reporting that they no longer have access to the grant money that has been obligated to them.

    During your confirmation before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, you were asked:

    “Several statutes give effect to Congress’s constitutional power of the purse, reflecting its responsibility to provide appropriations to federal agencies, and its prerogative to place limitations on the availability of those appropriations, specifically, their availability as to purpose, amount, and time. Among these, the Antideficiency Act prohibits agencies from spending in advance, or in excess, of an appropriation. There is also a statutory framework for the execution – that is, the obligation and expenditure – of appropriations, as well as procedures for use when the President or executive branch disagrees with the policy embodied in an appropriation and therefore does not wish to obligate available funds. Do you believe that the president or executive branch can ignore congressional appropriation decisions and instructions?”

    You responded: “If confirmed, I pledge to respect all of Congress’s duly enacted statutes.” You were further asked:

    Do you pledge to respect congressional appropriation decisions and instructions and resist any efforts within the executive branch to circumvent them?

    You responded: “Particularly as a former Member of Congress, I appreciate and respect the Congressional funding process. I commit to fully following the law.”

    Federal law and regulations require that obligated funds be provided to grantees absent proof of misuse of funds. We further note that the Solar for All program furthers several goals, all of which are part of EPA’s core mission, which you support. It is designed to help reduce carbon pollution, air pollutants, and household energy costs by financing community and rooftop solar in low-income communities. It will further help drive American manufacturing, boosting the economy and creating jobs. Even President Trump’s Department of Energy continues to acknowledge that “[i]nvesting in energy innovations creates well-paying jobs, drives economic growth, and makes our industries more competitive,” and that the “growing global market for renewable energy technologies and innovations is projected to be worth at least $23 trillion by 2030.”

    Accordingly, in order to assist in our understanding of EPA’s actions, please respond to the following questions:

    • On what legal grounds did EPA pause already-obligated grants to grantees under the Solar for All program? Please cite to specific statutory or regulatory authority. We note that any executive orders do not qualify as such statutory or regulatory authority, as they are neither statutes nor regulations, and all potentially relevant executive orders clearly state in any case that they “shall be implemented consistent with applicable law,” thereby clearly acknowledging that they cannot supersede or contravene statutory authority.
    • When do you intend to lift the pause on the already-obligated funding under this program?
    • As many of our offices have also received reports of other EPA grant programs that seem to have been “paused” or where obligated funds may have been cut off, please provide us a list of all EPA grant and other programs that are currently paused. Please further note whether this pause applies only to future grant-making, to post- award but pre-obligation grants, and/or to already obligated grants.
    • For each of these programs, when do you intend to lift the pause(s)?

    We are cognizant that EPA’s initial decision to pause funding appears to have been taken before you had been confirmed as EPA Administrator. Perhaps you intend to reverse this pause immediately in accordance with applicable law. If not, however, please provide your detailed responses as soon as possible.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell: Trump’s New Tariffs Will Drive Up Grocery & Gas Prices, Costs for American Manufacturers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    01.31.25

    Cantwell: Trump’s New Tariffs Will Drive Up Grocery & Gas Prices, Costs for American Manufacturers

    WA consumers will pay the price as Trump chooses to tax goods from Canada and Mexico up to 25%, plus a 10% tax on goods from China

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Trump administration announced plans to impose a 25% tax on many goods imported into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tax on goods imported from China, a move that will likely increase prices for consumers across the country, particularly in Washington state.

    U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) – who serves as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, as well as senior member of the Finance and Energy and Natural Resources Committees– issued the following statement:

    “President Trump should not start trade wars that hurt American manufacturers, consumers, and farmers, especially when food prices and interest rates are so high. After two weeks in office and lots of executive orders, where are the administration’s ideas to lower costs for American families?  Let’s not put 25% tariffs that will increase consumer costs,” Sen. Cantwell said. “Canada and Mexico are already willing to partner with us to fight fentanyl and strengthen border security.  I hope the President will work with Congress on opening new markets, growing U.S. exports, and using the EXIM Bank to compete with China, instead of driving up prices at the grocery store and gas pump. I want an export strategy — one that maximizes opportunities to sell American products overseas.“

    Two out of every five jobs in the State of Washington are tied to trade and related industries. In 2023, Washington state imported $19.9 billion of goods from Canada – primarily oil, gas, lumber, and electrical power — making our northern neighbors Washington state’s largest trade partner.

    Also in 2023, Washington state imported $1.7 billion in goods from Mexico, including motor vehicles, vehicle parts, and household appliances. All of these raw materials and goods will now be subject to a 25% tariff.

    A 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico would add an estimated $144 billion a year to the cost of manufacturing in the United States.

    Sen. Cantwell has been a champion for Washington state growers and exports. Agriculture and food manufacturing generate more than $21 billion per year and employ more than 171,000 people in the State of Washington. Small and family farms are key contributors, making up 89% and 94%, respectively, of Washington’s farms. 

    Sen. Cantwell was the leading voice in negotiations to end India’s 20% retaliatory tariff on American apples, which devastated Washington state’s apple exports. In September 2023, India ended its retaliatory tariffs on apples and pulse crops following several years of Sen. Cantwell’s advocacy.

    In May 2023, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter urging the Biden Administration to help U.S. potato growers finally get approval to sell fresh potatoes in Japan. In June 2023, Sen. Cantwell hosted U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), then-chair of the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, in Washington state for a forum with 30 local agricultural leaders in Wenatchee to discuss the Farm Bill.

    In 2022, Sen. Cantwell spearheaded passage of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a law to crack down on skyrocketing international ocean shipping costs and ease supply chain backlogs that raise prices for consumers and make it harder for U.S. farmers and exporters to get their goods to the global market.

    In August 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to then-Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue requesting aid funds be distributed to wheat growers. In December 2018, Sen. Cantwell celebrated the passage of the Farm Bill, which included $500 million of assistance for farmers, including those who grow wheat.

    In 2019, Sen. Cantwell helped secure a provision in the $16 billion USDA relief package, ensuring sweet cherry growers could access emergency funding to offset the impacts of tariffs and other market disruptions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads New Hampshire Congressional Delegation In Urging Trump to Halt Planned Tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Citing Likelihood of Increasing Energy and Food Prices for Families in the Middle of Winter

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), are sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him not to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canada, the Granite State’s largest trading partner, and Mexico. Sweeping tariffs would dramatically increase costs for families in New Hampshire and around the nation. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, and these tariffs are estimated to drive up energy prices for families in the middle of winter. It would also increase costs for essential items like groceries, housing, cars and more. Click here to read the full letter.
    In part, the delegation wrote: “During your campaign, you promised to ‘bring down the price of everything.’ Despite that promise, sweeping tariffs would be a tax on Americans that raises the cost of everything from cars and gas to housing and groceries. Tariff costs would be passed on to our consumers and businesses through higher costs for goods and services.”
    They continued: “For the more than 350,000 households in New Hampshire who rely on heating oil, propane and wood to keep their homes warm and comfortable, adding these costs would be particularly cruel in the middle of a winter that has seen recent temperatures reach 20 below zero. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, not because we don’t produce enough in the United States, but because it makes logistical and economic sense. The National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI), which represents wholesale and retail liquid heating fuel distributors throughout the Northeast, estimates that tariffs could increase heating costs by at least $375 per winter for a home in New Hampshire.”
    They concluded: “These taxes would raise families’ grocery bills, too. The type of broad tariffs you’ve proposed could raise food costs by $200 per year for the average household. That’s because the U.S. imports 38 percent of our fresh vegetables, 60 percent of our fresh fruit, and more than 99 percent of our coffee. This is the last thing families need when they’re already struggling with record high prices for eggs or coffee […] We urge you to focus on bringing down prices and reconsider the wisdom of placing sweeping tariffs on imports that would raise prices for our constituents.”
    Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools. 
    After the November election, a multitude of business leaders verified that, if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of a Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates  said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Prospera Energy Inc. Provides Update on Future Production Reporting Process

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prospera Energy Inc. (TSX.V: PEI, OTC: GXRFF) (“Prospera“, “PEI” or the “Corporation“)

    Prospera is refining its production reporting process to provide greater consistency and enhanced transparency for shareholders. Moving forward, Prospera will apply the following standardized definitions in all production reporting:

    • Gross Production: Represents Prospera Energy’s working interest (operated or non-operated) before the deduction of royalties, excluding any royalty interests held by Prospera Energy.
    • Net Production: Represents Prospera Energy’s working interest (operated or non-operated) after deducting royalty obligations, including any royalty interests in production or reserves.

    These standardized terms are as outlined in ASC 51-324. Additionally, Prospera Energy will report gross production at the first point of sale. As a result, production figures will exclude both produced gas at the wellhead that is used in operations, and production volumes from partners who are in arrears, even when Prospera realizes cash proceeds from these volumes.

    In line with Prospera’s commitment of clear and consistent production data, the Company is also providing updates on previously reported production figures to ensure alignment with this reporting framework and standardized definitions:

    News Release Dated December 18, 2024, Titled:
    “Prospera Announces Monthly Operations Update and Increase to Term Loan”

    • The reported 686 boe/d for November 2024 represented wellhead production at 100% working interest, including JV partner production. 529 boe/d was PEI’s gross production at the first sales point over the same period.
    • The reported 803 boe/d for December 1 – 10, 2024 represented wellhead production at 100% working interest, including JV partner production. 622 boe/d was PEI’s gross production at the first sales point over the same period

    News Release Dated January 21, 2025, Titled:
    “Prospera Announces Monthly Operations Update”

    • The 661 boe/d reported for Dec 2024 reflects gross production at the first sales point.
    • The 682 boe/d reported for Jan 1-19, 2025 reflects gross production at the first sales point.
    • The 751 boe/d reported for Jan 16, 2025 reflects gross production at the first sales point.

    About Prospera

    Prospera Energy Inc. is a publicly traded Canadian energy company specializing in the exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Prospera is dedicated to optimizing recovery from legacy fields using environmentally safe and efficient reservoir development methods and production practices. The company’s core properties are strategically located in Saskatchewan and Alberta, including Cuthbert, Luseland, Hearts Hill, and Brooks. Prospera Energy Inc. is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol PEI and the U.S. OTC Market under GXRFF.

    For Further Information:
    Shawn Mehler, PR
    Email: investors@prosperaenergy.com

    Chris Ludtke, CFO
    Email: cludtke@prosperaenergy.com

    Shubham Garg, Chairman of the Board
    Email: sgarg@prosperaenergy.com

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the future operations of the Corporation and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “will,” “may,” “should,” “anticipate,” “expects” and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Corporation, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

    Although Prospera believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Prospera can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of reserve estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures.

    The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Prospera. As a result, Prospera cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize, and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward- looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and Prospera does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by Canadian securities law.

    Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Announces $7.1 Million in Support of Local Energy Project Planning, Siting and Permitting

    Source: US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the selection of four projects totaling $7.1 million to expand a program that improves planning, siting, and permitting processes for large-scale renewable energy and energy storage facilities across the United States. The collaborative teams formed through these projects, as well as 12 previously selected under the Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (R-STEP™) program, will develop and expand statewide initiatives that provide expertise, trainings, and technical resources to local governments, Tribal governments, and communities as they plan for and evaluate large-scale renewable energy and energy storage projects. 
    A significant portion of large-scale renewable energy and energy storage projects built in the coming years are likely to be built on private lands, where state and local authorities make permitting decisions. The state-based R-STEP collaboratives will evaluate the needs of stakeholders in their regions and develop tailored educational materials and technical assistance programs to improve planning and streamline project reviews and permit decisions. This will result in renewable energy and energy storage projects that contribute to strong local economies, resilient energy systems, and lower energy costs for households and businesses, especially in rural or underserved communities.
    The R-STEP collaboratives bring together stakeholders from all sides of the energy planning process, including state and regional agencies, universities, developers, technical experts, public service commissions, farmers unions, tribes, community organizations, and other trusted entities. 

    The four newly selected collaboratives are:

    Illinois: Led by University of Illinois Extension, the collaborative will build and maintain a cohort of trusted technical assistance providers in each county to help communities make informed decisions about renewable energy projects. The work will focus on developing education and outreach materials to support proactive decision-making by communities and local government officials. (Award amount: $1.9 million)
    Louisiana: Led by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, the collaborative will engage a diverse array of community partners in Louisiana to inform state agencies’ planning and decision-making for offshore wind facilities in state waters. (Award amount: $1.9 million)
    Minnesota: Led by University of Minnesota Extension, the collaborative will engage diverse stakeholders to assess needs, expand technical assistance services, and maintain training and educational resources to expand local officials’ capacity to engage constructively in planning, siting, and permitting for large-scale renewable energy projects. (Award amount: $1.2 million)
    Virginia: Led by the Virginia Department of Energy, the collaborative will create a centralized, stakeholder-informed hub to provide resources and access to trusted experts to increase knowledge about energy fundamentals, economic development, environmental regulations and best practices, and planning for large-scale renewable energy development. (Award amount: $1.9 million)

    DOE is currently seeking experts to provide technical assistance to the R-STEP collaboratives. Organizations with expertise on key renewable energy and energy storage planning, siting, and permitting topics are encouraged to learn more and apply by Jan. 9, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET.
    Learn more about the selected state-based collaboratives. 
    Learn more about large-scale renewable energy siting.
    R-STEP is funded by DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Office and Wind Energy Technologies Office.
    The R-STEP program is administered by ENERGYWERX. This funding mechanism is made possible through the innovative Partnership Intermediary Agreement set up by DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions.
    Selection for award negotiations is not a commitment by DOE to issue an award or provide funding. Before funding is issued, DOE and the applicant will undergo a negotiation process, and DOE may cancel negotiations and rescind the selection for any reason during that time. DOE award amounts are subject to change pending negotiations.

    The R-STEP program has announced state-based collaborations supporting: Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Department of Energy Announces $6.9 Million in Projects to Support Effective Community Waste-to-Energy Strategies for Local Transportation Needs

    Source: US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

    The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) and Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO) announced $6.9 million in funding for nine projects to support local waste-to-energy management solutions for transportation energy needs. Located across six states, these selected projects will help sustainably manage and recover potential clean energy sources from local community waste streams using innovative and cost-effective technologies to produce low-carbon biofuels.
    Organic waste streams from food waste, municipal wastewater sludge and solid waste, and manure are a key feedstock for producing biofuels and bioproducts. However, these waste streams represent one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to water, soil and air quality pollution. In addition, waste management costs for treatment, stabilization, hauling and disposal are considerable, and municipal landfills can contaminate soil and water. This funding will support local communities plan and identify waste-to-energy solutions for their waste streams, and also help reduce other impacts associated with waste collection and landfilling, including reducing heavy vehicle traffic, odors, and litter.
    “Organic waste management presents economic, environmental and health burdens for communities across the United States,” said Jeff Marootian, principal deputy assistant secretary for DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “By advancing novel technologies to convert this waste into valuable energy resources, these collaborative investments will help solve local waste management challenges and support a more secure and resilient future.”
    Recognizing that local communities may be at different stages in their sustainable waste management planning efforts, the selected projects will address the above waste-to-energy needs through two topic areas:

    Topic Area 1: Feasibility Study Development Analyses 
    Topic Area 2: Design Work and Experimental Validation 

    This funding will benefit communities and transit authorities with waste-to-energy solutions and support the Federal government’s commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies that create jobs for our local communities and achieve a secure energy future. 
    Read more about these selectees and their projects, and visit BETO’s funding opportunities and VTO’s funding opportunities webpages for other upcoming funding opportunities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency Announce $6 Million to Support Development of Advanced Biofuels

    Source: US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

    Today, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $6 million in funding for three projects that will advance biofuel development and support U.S. leadership in energy and emissions innovation. Funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the projects will support research to improve performance and reduce costs of high-impact biofuel production technologies; scale up production systems with industry; and support the U.S bioeconomy. Located in three states, the projects will support DOE’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Grand Challenge goals by developing biofuel technologies that use sustainable biomass and waste feedstocks. 
    Biofuels are liquid fuels produced from renewable biological sources, including feedstocks such as plants and algae. When responsibly sourced, U.S. biofuel production can help strengthen the rural economy, move the U.S. toward greater energy independence, and support domestic production of cleaner fuels.
    These projects will provide industry with new technologies to meet EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Program requirements to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and expand the nation’s renewable fuels sector, while reducing reliance on imported transportation fuel, heating oil, and jet fuel. Using agricultural residues and wet wastes, the projects also align with DOE’s BETO: Billion-Ton 2023, an assessment of domestic renewable carbon resources that estimates that the U.S. can sustainably provide 134 million tons of agricultural residues and 32 million tons of wet waste in the near-term.  
    This funding will address the development of advanced biofuels through pre-pilot scale-up of integrated biorefinery technologies. The following projects were selected:

    Air Company Holdings, Brooklyn, New York—Biogenic Carbon Dioxide to Drop-in Sustainable Aviation Fuel
    Erg Bio Inc., Dublin, California—Demonstration of the ASPIRE Feedstock Flexible Biomass Deconstruction and Conversion Technology at the Pre-pilot Scale
    Terragia Biofuels, Hanover, New Hampshire—Continuous Conversion of Corn Stover to Ethanol Using Engineered Thermophilic Bacteria.

    Read more about these selectees and their projects, and visit BETO’s funding opportunities  to learn more about their other funding opportunities.

    About the Renewable Fuel Standard Program

    The RFS program, which is a national regulatory program implemented by the EPA, was created by Congress with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions along with expanding the nation’s renewable fuels sector while reducing reliance on imported oil. The program requires a certain volume of renewable fuel to replace or reduce the quantity of petroleum-based transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel. The four categories of commonly used renewable fuels are: biomass-based diesel, cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel and total renewable fuel.
    For more information on the RFS program, visit the EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard Program webpage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Launches Second Round of Prize Supporting Grassroots Energy Innovation in Underrepresented Communities

    Source: US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

    The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the second round of the Community Energy Innovation Prize, a multi-million-dollar competition supporting grassroots innovation, entrepreneurship, capacity building, and economic development in communities historically underrepresented in clean energy development.

    Through the three phases of the prize, teams have the chance to win part of the $8.42 million prize pool to fund their ongoing activities that address local challenges in clean energy, energy efficiency, manufacturing, materials, and transportation. Successful competitors will demonstrate a strong track record of building trust and strengthening relationships and partnerships within their communities.
    “The most successful solutions are ones that are led by communities themselves,” said Jeff Marootian, principal deputy assistant secretary for DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “With this prize, groups and organizations can receive the guidance and financial support they need to solve local challenges and better the lives of residents through job opportunities, less waste, cleaner air and lower energy bills.”
    The Community Energy Innovation Prize is made up of three tracks, each with distinct focus areas, over three phases: 

    Clean Energy Ecosystem Track. In this track, a total prize pool of $3.22 million will be awarded to up to 12 teams for fostering innovation ecosystems and/or technology deployments through activities focusing on community-centric networks and bottom-up solutions for sustainable development, based on the needs of the communities involved. 
    Manufacturing Ecosystem Track. In this track, a total prize pool of $2.6 million will be awarded to up to 10 teams for developing manufacturing innovation ecosystems across government, industry, academia, national labs, and communities to address key challenges in the development and adoption of emerging materials and manufacturing technologies. 
    Vehicles Ecosystem Track. In this track, a total prize pool of $2.6 million will be awarded to up to 10 teams for supporting the deployment of clean transportation technologies in a manner that promotes access to clean transportation technologies, improves health and air quality outcomes, and lowers the burden of transportation impacts on community members.

    Any eligible team may compete in the first phase, CONCEPT, where applicants form their coalitions and develop project ideas. Up to 32 teams across the three tracks will be selected as CONCEPT phase winners and receive an initial prize amount of $75,000 to $100,000 each, along with in-kind mentorship and other support services. Winning teams in the CONCEPT phase will be eligible to compete in subsequent phases. 
    Applications to compete in the CONCEPT phase for all three tracks are now open. The deadline to submit is June 20, 2025. There will be an informational webinar for prospective applicants in the near future. Follow the prize on HeroX for updates.
    The Community Energy Innovation Prize is jointly sponsored by three offices within DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: the Integrated Strategies Office, the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office, and the Vehicle Technologies Office. The prize is administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and is part of the American-Made program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Invests $32 Million for Grid-Edge Technology and Smart Charge Management

    Source: US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $32 million for six selected pilot projects that will support new load growth through grid-edge innovations and the ability of energy providers to right-size grid investments for future load growth. These Connected Communities projects in eight states will also provide new strategies and tools for utilities, grid planners and operators, automakers, electric vehicle (EV) smart charge management service providers, and the communities they serve to improve resilience and reduce costs.
    “Providing low-cost, resilient, and reliable energy to all Americans is a top priority for the DOE,” said Jeff Marootian, principal deputy assistant secretary for DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “As our nation’s energy system faces unprecedented demand growth, it’s more important than ever to deploy solutions that maximize all our energy resources and deliver the most efficient, reliable, and affordable electricity possible. These pilot projects will leverage the latest grid-edge solutions—like energy efficiency, demand-responsive building systems, energy storage, EV smart charging, and advanced grid-planning strategies—to equip communities and utilities with the tools and data they need to confidently manage our evolving electric grid.”
    DOE continues to evaluate applications for this funding opportunity and intends to award additional projects up to a total of $65 million, as originally announced, with additional selections as reviews are completed. 
    Connected Communities 2.0 builds on the successes and lessons learned from the first cohort of Connected Communities, launched in 2020, and DOE’s original smart neighborhoods in Georgia and Alabama. The first Connected Communities projects focused on integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) to support a more variable grid. The 2.0 version aims to address growing challenges to the grid head-on, ensuring that necessary upgrades are sized correctly to accommodate increasing loads at vehicle charging locations, data centers, buildings, and industrial sites in a way that leverages the flexibility of these new loads. In the process, DOE is selecting a cohort and collecting data needed to build confidence that the grid is highly flexible and resilient.
    Connected Communities 2.0 centers on two major areas:

    Connected Communities (topic 1), focused on integrated grid-edge technical measures in buildings, industry, and transportation to prepare the electric grid for new loads and improve customer benefits and grid resilience.
    Smart Charge Management (subtopic 1A), focused on various unique urban, suburban, and rural-use cases to build confidence in smart charge management as an effective approach for EVs to provide flexibility and value to the electric grid.

    Three projects have been selected in each area.
    The Connected Communities selectees are:

    The Accelerating Community-wide Connected Electric Loads & Energy Reliability Achieved Through Integration with Nationwide Grid (ACCELERATING) Connectivity initiative (Minnesota), led by the Beneficial Electrification League, will advance a nationally scalable approach for building load management. The project will prioritize partnerships with electric cooperatives in Minnesota that advance communications to optimize residential thermal loads as grid assets. (Award amount: $5.3 million)
    Purdue University (Indiana) will demonstrate pathways for rural electric membership cooperatives to improve energy efficiency and resilience in the face of new load growth in collaboration with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Pathways include engaging with rural communities, piloting financial programs, coordinating DERs through systems, and scaling up lessons learned. (Award amount: $5.9 million)
    The Responsive Energy Communities Harnessing Advanced Grid Efficiency (RECHARGE) initiative (California), led by Pacific Gas & Electric, will target residential units, businesses and industry in the city of San Jose and in the Fresno County. RECHARGE will address the growing electric demand and distribution capacity challenges in these communities. (Award amount: $6 million)

    The Smart Charge Management selectees are:

    One Energy Enterprises (Ohio) will pioneer a community charging depot for medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets, which will integrate advanced microgrid technology and DERs to minimize charging investments, while optimizing the grid. The site will be located in Findlay, Ohio, with plans for expansion to support a larger number of class 6–8 electric trucks. (Award amount: $3.2 million)
    Baltimore Gas & Electric Company (Maryland) will use a multi-faceted distributed energy resource management system to unlock grid-aware managed charging functionality. The project will feature technology that reduces residential EV charging peak loads, decreases infrastructure upgrade costs, and adjusts charging schedules to alleviate grid congestion. (Award amount: $5.9 million)
    EV.Energy (California, Florida, Alaska, Rhode Island, and Hawaii) will demonstrate and validate smart charge management solutions in five diverse utility territories across five different states. Smart charge management approaches will include optimization for renewable energy matching, reduced grid congestion, timer peak smoothing, expanded charging access for multifamily housing, and both vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid technologies.  (Award amount: $6 million)

    The six projects selected today will demonstrate the capabilities of grid-edge technologies and integrated power systems that are efficient, resilient, flexible, and affordable, along with distribution and grid-planning strategies that can be replicated across the United States.
    Integration is essential to Connected Communities, and DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) and Office of Electricity are collaborating to support integrated energy system planning with a network of technology offices and industry partners. The Connected Communities 2.0 funding announcement is led by EERE’s Building Technologies Office and Vehicle Technologies Office in collaboration with the Solar Energy Technologies Office, Industrial Efficiency and Decarbonization Office, and Geothermal Technologies Office.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Announces New Tools Making it Easier for Home Contractors to Install Energy Saving Appliances and Lower Costs

    Source: US Department of Energy

    As More Americans Seek Home Energy Upgrades, New DOE Resources Will Enable Easier Access to the Historic Money Saving Incentives Provided by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—  In support of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today released new resources to help American households and home energy efficiency contractors understand how to qualify for thousands of dollars in federal tax credits, made available by the Inflation Reduction Act, for home upgrades. The resources include a Tax Credit Product Lookup Tool to help determine if new equipment is eligible for tax credits; information that walks contractors through key elements of home insulation products that can lower utility bills and qualify for tax credits; and a training module on how contractors can leverage a range of home energy efficiency incentives. By making it easier for households and contractors to know if they qualify for these tax credits, this tool will enable more Americans to access them and to lower their utility bills. 

    These resources will help drive access to the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which more than 2.3 million families have already claimed, saving over $2 billion total—an average tax cut of $880 per household—according to the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which is available through 2032, allows households to receive up to $3,200 in tax credits annually for a variety of energy-efficient home improvements. Improving home energy efficiency and upgrading equipment will save homeowners money on utility bills and improve home resilience, and is key to the Biden-Harris Administration’s national clean energy goals. 

    “Across the board, the Biden-Harris Administration is making it easier for more American households to save energy and save money on home improvement upgrades that will keep money in their pockets for years to come,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Contractors are the go-to resource for homeowners looking to upgrade insulation, wiring and appliances, which is why we are providing new tools that get contractors the information to ensure their customers can unlock Investing in America savings.”  

    New Resources  

    • The Tax Credit Product Lookup Tool can help determine if new heating, air-conditioning, or water-heating equipment may be eligible for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit. Contractors—or even homeowners—can enter information about a particular product to determine if it meets tax credit eligibility criteria and receive a single page report that the homeowner can print or save for their records.
    • The home insulation explainer walks contractors and homeowners through the key elements of home insulation and air-sealing products that can lower utility bills and qualify for tax credits.
    • The new contractor training module provides detailed introductory information on how contractors can leverage residential energy efficiency incentives, including those available from federal, state, local, and utility-run programs. The 30-minute video is available for free on the Building Science Education Solution Center. The training is complementary to DOE’s Energy Skilled recognition program, which contractors can use to find training and certification programs that develop the skills and knowledge needed for clean energy jobs. 

    These new resources build on existing DOE tools to help Americans explore energy-saving technologies for their homes, including heat pump water heater and cold climate heat pump tools to guide contractors and homeowners through the decision-making process for selecting equipment. 

    Homeowners can also go to the ENERGY STAR website to find information on the many federal tax credits offered for energy-efficient home heat pump technology, home improvements, and clean energy equipment upgrades. The website also offers detailed instructions for claiming tax credits as well as strategies for maximizing federal tax savings.  

    Many energy-efficient tax credits can be used together with DOE Home Energy Rebate programs and other state, local, and utility energy efficiency incentives, helping consumers save even more on purchase and installation costs. Collectively, the product lookup and decision tools, along with contractor training, will help Americans improve their homes’ energy efficiency while ensuring they get the right equipment for their comfort needs, qualify for incentives, and lower their energy bills. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE and Commerce Department Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of AI

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), as represented by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed earlier this year to collaborate on safety research, testing, and evaluation of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models and systems.  

    This partnership is a key example of the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government approach to ensuring the safe, secure, and trustworthy development and use of AI. This announcement follows the recent release of the first-ever National Security Memorandum on AI, which designated the U.S. AI Safety Institute (US AISI), which is housed within NIST, as a key hub of the U.S. government’s AI safety efforts and identifies a substantial role for DOE in helping the U.S. government understand and mitigate AI safety risks and improve the performance and reliability of AI models and systems. 

    “There’s no question that AI is the next frontier for scientific and clean energy breakthroughs, which underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to push forward scientific innovation in a safe and secure manner” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Across the federal government we are committed to advancing AI safety and today’s partnership ensures that Americans can confidently benefit from AI-powered innovation and prosperity for years to come.” 

    In addition to facilitating joint research efforts and information sharing, this agreement enables the Department of Energy and its National Laboratories to lend both their technical capacity and their subject matter expertise to the US AISI and NIST. 

    “By empowering our teams to work together, this partnership with the Department of Energy will undoubtedly help the U.S. AI Safety Institute and NIST advance the science of AI safety,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Safety is key to continued innovation in AI, and we have no time to waste in working together across government to develop robust research, testing, and evaluations to protect and advance essential national security priorities.” 

    Through this MOU, the DOE and DOC intend to evaluate the impact of AI models on public safety, including risks to critical infrastructure, energy security, and national security. Key focus areas include developing classified evaluations of advanced AI models’ chemical and biological risks, as well as developing and evaluating evaluate privacy enhancing technologies that aim to protect personal and commercial proprietary data. These efforts, combined with DOE’s AI testbeds, will help lay the foundation for a safe and innovative future for AI. 

    Read the full MOU here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Announces Collaboration With Tribal Leaders To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Strengthen National Security

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —  The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the formation of the Tribal Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Working Group, administered by DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM). Tribes play a critical role in helping the United States meet its energy security and climate obligations while working to develop their vast energy, critical minerals and materials, and carbon management potential. As part of this collaboration, the Working Group will provide ongoing advice and expertise to DOE on the best ways to assist Tribal decarbonization efforts and utilization of their natural resources. DOE’s technical assistance will help Tribes spur local economic development; provide workforce training for local, high-wage, middle class jobs; and support Tribal technical capacity for fostering energy, economic, and community development opportunities.

    “The U.S. Department of Energy recognizes that energy is foundational to Tribal self-determination, and we are proud to have Tribal leadership in, and partnership with DOE’s efforts to expand clean energy development,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Under the Biden-Harris administration, DOE has invested more money in Tribal clean energy projects than any administration and we are excited to build on this work with a new Working Group aimed at supporting Tribal capacity-building and investments in carbon management, methane mitigation and critical minerals that benefit Tribal communities.”  

    This Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Tribal Working Group marks the fourth working group the DOE has established to collaborate with Tribes. This latest working group will initially include representation from eight federally recognized Tribes with significant fossil energy reserves and reliance on revenue from those resources, including: Jicarilla Apache; Crow Nation; Navajo Nation; Caddo Nation; Hopi Nation; Southern Ute; Arctic North Slope Iñupiat; and Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara (MHA) Nation. DOE anticipates the number of Tribes formally participating in the working group will grow over time.   

    “The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation is deeply honored to have hosted DOE and the forum participants for a site visit to our MHA Native Green Grow and Bakken operations,” said Chairman Mark N. Fox. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management and the U.S. Energy Association for bringing together such an important gathering. It was a privilege to showcase our innovative initiatives and share our vision for sustainable resource development on tribal lands. The MHA Nation looks forward to continued collaboration through the Tribal Working Group and exploring new opportunities with DOE to ensure that our energy resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of future generations.” 

    “The Caddo Nation is honored to join the FECM Tribal Working Group and participate in this vital initiative,” said Chairman Bobby Gonzalez. “As stewards of our land and resources, we recognize the importance of addressing methane emissions and are exploring new opportunities for mitigation. Our Nation is particularly excited to work with FECM and other partners such as the Oklahoma University along with engineers and chemist and industry leaders on innovative solutions like converting methane to hydrogen, which aligns with our long-term energy goals and our commitment to sustainable development and lower emissions. These discussions within [the] FECM Tribal Working Group will not only benefit our Nation but also help Indian Country and the broader Oklahoma community as we look toward a cleaner, more resilient future.” 

    “The Iñupiat Community of the Arctic Slope is eager to participate in the Tribal Working Group in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management,” said Director of Natural Resources Doreen Leavitt. “As stewards of the vast oil and gas resources on the Alaskan North Slope, we are committed to managing these resources in a way that honors our land and our people, while ensuring the well-being of future generations. We look forward to working together with FECM to explore sustainable practices that balance economic development with environmental protection, so that our communities can thrive for years to come.” 

    “We are committed to advancing practices that will bring long-term benefits to the Navajo Nation as well as other participating Tribes,” said Interim Tribal Co-Chair William D. McCabe. “Our participation in the [Tribal Carbon Management Strategies] forum strengthened our resolve to foster sustainable, responsible management of our natural resources. The Navajo Nation looks forward to actively collaborating within the Tribal Working Group and working alongside FECM to explore and leverage the full suite of technologies under the FECM umbrella. Together, we can harness these innovations to ensure that our resources are utilized in a way that brings economic growth, preserves our lands, and supports the prosperity and well-being of the Navajo people, now and for generations to come.”

    “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is proud to participate in the Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Tribal Working Group,” said Demi Morishige, Designated Representative. “This partnership enables us to advocate for our community’s priorities and promote sustainable energy initiatives that reflect our unwavering commitment to Tribal sovereignty. We are eager to collaborate with our fellow tribal nations and the U.S. Department of Energy to develop solutions for a safe, affordable, and reliable carbon-neutral future. Our efforts will prioritize promoting economic development across all tribal communities.” 

    “The Crow Nation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management and the U.S. Energy Association for the opportunity to participate in the Tribal Carbon Management Strategies Forum held in Medora, North Dakota. We are deeply honored to engage in these meaningful discussions about the future of energy, resource management, and economic development for our people. Our Nation is blessed with significant carbon resources, and we look forward to actively participating in the Tribal Working Group, where we can explore new avenues of cooperation with FECM. Together, we can ensure that the Crow Nation continues to utilize these resources in a manner that fosters prosperity for our people and protects the well-being of future generations.” 

    The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides more than $13 billion in funding to directly support Tribal communities and makes Tribes eligible to apply for or request billions in additional funding. The Inflation Reduction Act directs $720 million in climate resilience and energy funding to Tribes, as well as provides hundreds of billions in tax credits for which clean energy and industrial projects on Tribal lands and in Tribal communities are eligible. For this reason, the initial priorities proposed for the working group are to explore technical assistance and capacity-building to leverage these funding opportunities related to FECM’s portfolio and other DOE offices:   

    • Development of carbon capture, transport and storage facilities and infrastructure; 
    • Methane mitigation;   
    • Critical minerals production and processing; and  
    • Repurposing existing energy assets slated for retirement—such as coal, oil, and/or natural gas facilities and accompanying equipment and infrastructure. 

    As a next step, FECM plans to convene representatives of the participating Tribes for a series of virtual information briefings across these identified priorities to prepare for the first formal meeting of the working group in 2025.  

    FECM minimizes environmental and climate impacts of fossil fuels and industrial processes while working to achieve net-zero emissions across the U.S economy. Priority areas of technology work include carbon capture, carbon conversion, carbon dioxide removal, carbon dioxide transport and storage, hydrogen production with carbon management, methane emissions reduction, and critical minerals production. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website. 

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