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Category: Energy

  • MIL-Evening Report: How we treat catchment water to make it safe to drink

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Patrick Taylor, Chief Environmental Scientist, EPA Victoria; Honorary Professor, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University

    Andriana Syvanych/Shutterstock

    Most of us are fortunate that, when we turn on the tap, clean, safe and high-quality water comes out.

    But a senate inquiry into the presence of PFAS or “forever chemicals” is putting the safety of our drinking water back in the spotlight.

    Lidia Thorpe, the independent senator leading the inquiry, says Elders in the Aboriginal community of Wreck Bay in New South Wales are “buying bottled water out of their aged care packages” due to concerns about the health impacts of PFAS in their drinking water.

    So, how is water deemed safe to drink in Australia? And why does water quality differ in some areas?

    Here’s what happens between a water catchment and your tap.

    Human intervention in the water cycle

    There is no “new” water on Earth. The water we drink can be up to 4.5 billion years old and is continuously recycled through the hydrological cycle. This transfers water from the ground to the atmosphere through evaporation and back again (for example, through rain).

    Humans interfere with this natural cycle by trapping and redirecting water from various sources to use. A lot happens before it reaches your home.

    The quality of the water when you turn on the tap depends on a range of factors, including the local geology, what kind of activities happen in catchment areas, and the different treatments used to process it.

    Maroondah dam in Healesville, Victoria.
    doublelee/Shutterstock

    How do we decide what’s safe?

    The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines define what is considered safe, good-quality drinking water.

    The guidelines set acceptable water quality values for more than 250 physical, chemical and bacterial contaminants. They take into account any potential health impact of drinking the contaminant over a lifetime as well as aesthetics – the taste and colour of the water.

    The guidelines are not mandatory but provide the basis for determining if the quality of water to be supplied to consumers in all parts of Australia is safe to drink. The guidelines undergo rolling revision to ensure they represent the latest scientific evidence.

    From water catchment to tap

    Australians’ drinking water mainly comes from natural catchments. Sources include surface water, groundwater and seawater (via desalination).

    Public access to these areas is typically limited to preserve optimal water quality.

    Filtration and purification of water occurs naturally in catchments as it passes through soil, sediments, rocks and vegetation.

    But catchment water is subject to further treatment via standard processes that typically focus on:

    • removing particulates (for example, soil and sediment)

    • filtration (to remove particles and their contaminants)

    • disinfection (for example, using chlorine and chloramine to kill bacteria and viruses)

    • adding fluoride to prevent tooth decay

    • adjusting pH to balance the chemistry of the water and to aid filtration.

    This water is delivered to our taps via a reticulated system – a network of underground reservoirs, pipes, pumps and fittings.

    In areas where there is no reticulated system, drinking water can also be sourced from rainwater tanks. This means the quality of drinking water can vary.

    Sources of contamination can come from roof catchments feeding rainwater tanks as well from the tap due to lead in plumbing fittings and materials.

    So, does all water meet these standards?

    Some rural and remote areas, especially First Nations communities, rely on poor-quality surface water and groundwater
    for their drinking water.

    Rural and regional water can exceed recommended guidelines for salt, microbial contaminants and trace elements, such as lead, manganese and arsenic.

    The federal government and other agencies are trying to address this.

    There are many impacts of poor regional water quality. These include its implication in elevated rates of tooth decay in First Nations people. This occurs when access to chilled, sugary drinks is cheaper and easier than access to good quality water.

    What about PFAS?

    There is also renewed concern about the presence of PFAS or “forever” chemicals in drinking water.

    Recent research examining the toxicity of PFAS chemicals along with their presence in some drinking water catchments in Australia and overseas has prompted a recent assessment of water source contamination.

    A review by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) proposed lowering the limits for four PFAS chemicals in drinking water: PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS and PFBS.

    The review used publicly available data and found most drinking water supplies are currently below the proposed new guideline values for PFAS.

    However, “hotspots” of PFAS remain where drinking water catchments or other sources (for example, groundwater) have been impacted by activities where PFAS has been used in industrial applications. And some communities have voiced concerns about an association between elevated PFAS levels in their communities and cancer clusters.

    While some PFAS has been identified as carcinogenic, it’s not certain that PFAS causes cancer. The link is still being debated.

    Importantly, assessment of exposure levels from all sources in the population shows PFAS levels are falling meaning any exposure risk has also reduced over time.

    How about removing PFAS from water?

    Most sources of drinking water are not associated with industrial contaminants like PFAS. So water sources are generally not subject to expensive treatment processes, like reverse osmosis, that can remove most waterborne pollutants, including PFAS. These treatments are energy-intensive and expensive and based on recent water quality assessments by the NHMRC will not be needed.

    While contaminants are everywhere, it is the dose that makes the poison. Ultra-low concentrations of chemicals including PFAS, while not desirable, may not be harmful and total removal is not warranted.

    Mark Patrick Taylor is a full-time employee of EPA Victoria, appointed to the statutory role of Chief Environmental Scientist. He is also an Honorary Professor at Macquarie University. EPA Victoria has previously received funding from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Victorian water authorities to understand the presence of contaminants waste water. He has previously received funding from the Australian Government, ARC and other government agencies for environmental pollution research.

    Antti Mikkonen is a full-time employee of EPA Victoria, in the role of Principal Health Risk Advisor for chemicals. Antti has previously received funding from the Australian Government Department of Education for research to understand PFAS bioaccumulation in livestock and models for risk management.

    Minna Saaristo is a full-time employee of EPA Victoria, appointed to the role of Principal Scientist – Ecological Risk and Emerging contaminants. She is affiliate of the School of Biological Sciences at Monash University. EPA Victoria has previously received funding from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Victorian water authorities to understand the presence of emerging contaminants in recycled water. She has previously received funding from the Australian Government, ARC and other government agencies for environmental pollution research.

    – ref. How we treat catchment water to make it safe to drink – https://theconversation.com/how-we-treat-catchment-water-to-make-it-safe-to-drink-242206

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. – Beetaloo Operational Update – Stimulation Campaign & Remaining Shenandoah South Pilot Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    Beetaloo Operational Update – Stimulation Campaign & Remaining Shenandoah South Pilot Project

    24 January 2025 – Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. (TSXV: FO, AIM: FOG) is pleased to announce the commencement of stimulation campaign at the Shenandoah S2-2H ST1 (“S2-2H ST1”) and Shenandoah S2-4H (“S2-4H”) wells in the Beetaloo Sub-Basin, Northern Territory, Australia with Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited’s (“Falcon”) joint venture partner, Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited (collectively the “Beetaloo JV partners”).

    Key Highlights of the Stimulation Campaign

    • Stimulation campaign will be completed across:
      • S2-2H ST1’s horizontal section of 1,654 metres (5,427 feet) and;
      • S2-4H’s horizontal section of 2,977 metres (9,766 feet).
    • Liberty Energy (NYSE: LBRT) who mobilised equipment and sand to location before the end of last year will carry out the stimulation campaign on behalf of the Beetaloo JV partners.

    Shenandoah South Pilot Project (“Pilot”)
    For the next drilling phase of the Pilot, which involves the drilling and stimulation of the remaining four wells, Falcon has elected to reduce its participating interest (“PI”) from 5% to 0%.

    Key Highlights of the Reduced Participating Interest

    • The election by Falcon to reduce its PI to 0% in the remaining four wells of the Pilot will significantly reduce it’s 2025 capital expenditure.
    • Falcon participated in the Shenandoah S-1H well in 2023 at its 22.5% PI which created a Drill Spacing Unit (“DSU”) of 20,480 acres.
    • Falcon participated in the S2-2H ST1 and the S2-4H wells in 2024 at its reduced 5% PI which created two DSU’s totalling 46,080 acres.
    • The Beetaloo JV partners are planning on creating an enlarged area around the Pilot, known as the First Strategic Development Area (“FSDA”), which would amalgamate the acreage and PIs from the DSUs mentioned above and any further DSUs that may be created as part of the Pilot
    • Depending on the ultimate size of the planned FSDA Falcon’s combined participation entitlement in the FSDA post the Pilot could be up to 10%.
    • Falcon also retains a 22.5% PI in the remaining 4.52 million acres in the Beetaloo, net 1 million acres to Falcon.

    Philip O’Quigley, CEO of Falcon commented:

    “We are extremely encouraged about the potential of the current stimulation program based on strong gas shows and other data observed whilst drilling both wells. In addition, we are very confident that the experienced US operator, Liberty Energy, will provide us with the greatest opportunity for the best possible outcome from this stimulation program. We look forward to updating the market on the IP30 flow test results as soon as they become available.

    Reducing our participation in the next four wells has a minimal impact on our overall interest in the Beetaloo which remains at 22.5%. This demonstrates the optionality afforded by the DSUs, which enable Falcon to strategically and efficiently deploy its capital. This reduction in our participation in the next four wells significantly reduces our 2025 capital expenditure whilst at the same time leaving us very well positioned to capture the overall success of the Beetaloo.
                                                 

    Ends.

    CONTACT DETAILS:

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.          +353 1 676 8702
    Philip O’Quigley, CEO +353 87 814 7042
    Anne Flynn, CFO +353 1 676 9162
     
    Cavendish Capital Markets Limited (NOMAD & Broker)
    Neil McDonald / Adam Rae +44 131 220 9771
       

    This announcement has been reviewed by Dr. Gábor Bada, Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd’s Technical Advisor. Dr. Bada obtained his geology degree at the Eötvös L. University in Budapest, Hungary and his PhD at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He is a member of AAPG.

    About Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is an international oil & gas company engaged in the exploration and development of unconventional oil and gas assets, with the current portfolio focused in Australia. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is incorporated in British Columbia, Canada and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited is a c. 98% subsidiary of Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    For further information on Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. Please visit http://www.falconoilandgas.com

    About Beetaloo Joint Venture (EP 76, 98 and 117)

    Company Interest
    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 22.5%
    Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 77.5%
    Total 100.0%

    Shenandoah South Pilot Project -2 Drilling Space Units – 46,080 acres1

    Company Interest
    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 5.0%
    Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 95.0%
    Total 100.0%

    1Subject to the completion of the SS2H ST1 and SS4H wells on the Shenandoah South pad 2.

    About Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited
    Tamboran (B1) Pty Limited (“Tamboran B1”) is the 100% holder of Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited, with Tamboran B1 being a 50:50 joint venture between Tamboran Resources Corporation and Daly Waters Energy, LP.

    Tamboran Resources Corporation, is a natural gas company listed on the NYSE (TBN) and ASX (TBN). Tamboran is focused on playing a constructive role in the global energy transition towards a lower carbon future, by developing the significant low CO2 gas resource within the Beetaloo Basin through cutting-edge drilling and completion design technology as well as management’s experience in successfully commercialising unconventional shale in North America.

    Bryan Sheffield of Daly Waters Energy, LP is a highly successful investor and has made significant returns in the US unconventional energy sector in the past. He was Founder of Parsley Energy Inc. (“PE”), an independent unconventional oil and gas producer in the Permian Basin, Texas and previously served as its Chairman and CEO. PE was acquired for over US$7 billion by Pioneer Natural Resources Company.

    Advisory regarding forward-looking statements
    Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “projects”, “dependent”, “consider” “potential”, “scheduled”, “forecast”, “outlook”, “budget”, “hope”, “suggest”, “support” “planned”, “approximately”, “potential” or the negative of those terms or similar words suggesting future outcomes. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, details on the commencement of stimulation activities at S2-2H ST1 and S2-4H and the respective horizontal sections; Liberty Energy conducting the stimulation campaign; Falcon’s election to reduce its PI for the remaining four wells in the Pilot and it significantly reducing 2025 capital expenditure; the planned creation of the FSDA and Falcon’s combined participation entitlement in the FSDA post the Pilot could be up to 10% with the planned amalgamation of the acreage and PIs.

    This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. The risks, assumptions and other factors that could influence actual results include risks associated with fluctuations in market prices for shale gas; risks related to the exploration, development and production of shale gas reserves; general economic, market and business conditions; substantial capital requirements; uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of reserves and resources; extent of, and cost of compliance with, government laws and regulations and the effect of changes in such laws and regulations; the need to obtain regulatory approvals before development commences; environmental risks and hazards and the cost of compliance with environmental regulations; aboriginal claims; inherent risks and hazards with operations such as mechanical or pipe failure, cratering and other dangerous conditions; potential cost overruns, drilling wells is speculative, often involving significant costs that may be more than estimated and may not result in any discoveries; variations in foreign exchange rates; competition for capital, equipment, new leases, pipeline capacity and skilled personnel; the failure of the holder of licenses, leases and permits to meet requirements of such; changes in royalty regimes; failure to accurately estimate abandonment and reclamation costs; inaccurate estimates and assumptions by management and their joint venture partners; effectiveness of internal controls; the potential lack of available drilling equipment; failure to obtain or keep key personnel; title deficiencies; geo-political risks; and risk of litigation.

    Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive and that these factors and risks are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Falcon assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Falcon. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in Falcon’s filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at http://www.sedarplus.com, including under “Risk Factors” in the Annual Information Form.

    Any references in this news release to initial production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons; however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter and are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or ultimate recovery. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for Falcon. Such rates are based on field estimates and may be based on limited data available at this time.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on Meeting with Energy Secretary Nominee Chris Wright

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after meeting with Chris Wright, President Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE):
    “From the Hanford site to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the Department of Energy has a huge footprint in Washington state—I expect to work productively with any Secretary of Energy, so I was glad to meet with Mr. Wright today to discuss my priorities and the crucial role DOE plays in my home state.
    “I fight every year, with every administration, to make sure the Hanford cleanup stays on track—and in our meeting today I made clear that supporting the tank waste mission at Hanford will require significant funding increases, which I’m committed to securing through the appropriations process. I spoke with Mr. Wright about the importance of upholding the holistic agreement and working with me to ensure that Hanford gets the funding it needs to stay on track with its essential cleanup mission.
    “I pressed Mr. Wright on whether he would commit to upholding the law and ensuring that all funding passed by Congress is used in line with Congressional intent—including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which are absolutely essential to ensuring the United States can stay ahead of our adversaries when it comes to energy production and manufacturing. These laws are already contributing in a major way to Washington state’s economy and clean energy future—it is absolutely critical that awarded, committed, and obligated funding is released in a timely manner for these projects in Washington state and across the country.  
    “While we disagree on plenty, if Mr. Wright is confirmed, I hope and expect that we will work together and keep open lines of communication to ensure that we continue to make progress at Hanford, invest in the future of American energy, and stay ahead of our adversaries.”
    As a longtime appropriator and now the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray has long worked to boost funding for the Department of Energy’s critical mission, including negotiating and getting signed into law a strong, bipartisan energy funding bill for Fiscal Year 2024 that strengthened investments in cutting-edge scientific research and grid security, and protected critical funding to propel renewable energy research and climate projects.
    Senator Murray has worked tirelessly to support Hanford workers and ensure the federal government lives up to its cleanup obligations at Hanford throughout her time in Congress—beating back efforts by multiple administrations to underfund Hanford cleanup. As Appropriations Chair in the last Congress, Murray secured a record $3.035 billion for the Hanford cleanup—$191.4 million above the fiscal year 2023 funding level—in the fiscal year 2024 government funding package she negotiated and passed, which was signed into law last March. With significant input from Senator Murray, the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2025 requested $3.108 billion for Hanford cleanup—a $72.2 million increase above the record funding level enacted in the FY24 package. In December 2023, Murray’s Beryllium Testing Fairness Act, to help Hanford workers suffering from toxic beryllium exposure, was signed into law by President Biden.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Algeria’s Bid Round Paves Way for $50B Hydrocarbon Investment Drive

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

    PARIS, France, January 24, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Algeria is set to invigorate its hydrocarbon sector with a substantial $50 billion investment over the next four years, focusing primarily on exploration and production activities. Central to this initiative is an ongoing licensing round, offering six onshore blocks to international and domestic energy companies. Although the 2024 round closes before the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum, taking place in Paris this May, the forum provides a platform for stakeholders to analyze the implications of this strategy, discuss upcoming results and explore partnerships for future rounds. Below is an overview of the available licensing opportunities, from technical specifications to potential implications for the sector.

    Technical Specifications

    The National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT) has identified six onshore blocks for its current licensing round, which opened in November. These blocks include M’Zaid, Ahara, Reggane II and Zerafa II, which will be offered as Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs). Additionally, Toual and Kern El-Kassa will be made available as Participation Agreements. Together, these blocks cover approximately 152,000 km², representing a significant area for exploration and development.

    These opportunities are supported by a wealth of geological and geophysical data. ALNAFT has compiled over 102,000 line-kilometers of 2D seismic data and more than 45,000 km² of 3D seismic data. This extensive dataset offers investors a clear and comprehensive view of Algeria’s subsurface potential, aiding in the identification of promising hydrocarbon prospects.

    What to Expect

    The licensing round opened on November 26, 2024, when tender documents and data rooms became accessible to interested parties. The deadline for bid submissions is April 15, 2025, and following the evaluation of bids, contracts will be officially awarded in Algiers on May 29, 2025. This carefully planned timeline reflects Algeria’s commitment to a transparent and efficient bidding process. Combined with its offering of both PSCs and Participation Agreements, this framework creates an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation and flexibility, attracting a diverse range of international and domestic investors to its hydrocarbon sector.

    Moreover, the round is part of an ambitious five-year licensing strategy, which involves issuing one call per year through 2029. This long-term framework ensures a steady stream of investment opportunities, positioning Algeria as a reliable and strategic player in the global energy landscape.

    Implications for the Sector

    The 2024 licensing round represents a pivotal moment in Algeria’s strategy to increase hydrocarbon production and boost foreign investment. By offering expansive acreage backed by high-quality seismic data, Algeria is positioning itself as a prime destination for energy investments and new exploration activity. As part of the five-year licensing strategy extending through 2029, the round underscores Algeria’s long-term vision for its hydrocarbon sector. The regularity of these calls demonstrates Algeria’s commitment to fostering investor confidence and remaining a vital energy player in the region.

    IAE 2025 (http://apo-opa.co/3CuyQxq) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit http://www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SEE to attend International Energy Week in Singapore

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SEE to attend International Energy Week in Singapore
    SEE to attend International Energy Week in Singapore
    ****************************************************

     ​     The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, will depart for Singapore tomorrow (October 20) afternoon to attend the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW).      Mr Tse will attend the SIEW Summit on October 21 to speak on the topic “Asia’s Collaborative Journey to a Sustainable Energy Future” and engage in in-depth discussions and exchanges with other participants. During his stay in Singapore, Mr Tse will meet with officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to exchange views on hydrogen development and green maritime fuel respectively. He will also visit a local enterprise to understand better the application of sustainable aviation fuel.      The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services, Mr Poon Kwok-ying, and officers from the Environment and Ecology Bureau and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department will also join the visit.          Mr Tse will arrive in Hong Kong on October 22. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, will be the Acting Secretary for Environment and Ecology.

     
    Ends/Saturday, October 19, 2024Issued at HKT 18:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tse Chin-wan to join energy summit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan will depart for Singapore on October 20 to attend Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW).

    Mr Tse will attend the SIEW Summit on October 21 to speak on “Asia’s Collaborative Journey to a Sustainable Energy Future” and engage in in-depth discussions and exchanges with other participants.

    During his stay in Singapore, Mr Tse will meet officials from the Ministry of Trade & Industry and the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore to exchange views on hydrogen development and green maritime fuel respectively.

    He will also visit a local enterprise to understand better the application of sustainable aviation fuel.

    Director of Electrical & Mechanical Services Poon Kwok-ying and officers from the Environment & Ecology Bureau and the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department will join the visit.

    Mr Tse will arrive back in Hong Kong on October 22. During his absence, Under Secretary for Environment & Ecology Diane Wong will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Attracting investment on agenda for Singapore trip

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Seeking investment to support the delivery of large regional projects is on the agenda for Regional Development and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones as he heads to Singapore to meet potential investors, business leaders and policymakers.

    “Attracting more overseas investment is a vital part of the Coalition Government’s economic strategy. We are already taking steps to remove the barriers and red tape holding back international capital through measures such as reforming the overseas investment law,” Mr Jones says.

    “New Zealand has close economic ties with Singapore, based on a history of trade and innovation, and it is recognised as a trusted and valuable partner and business destination. I want to hear about the opportunities investors and industry in Singapore are interested in exploring and share more about our work to develop a pipeline of investible infrastructure opportunities.

    “This country is facing a massive infrastructure deficit. Foreign investment could play a significant role in closing the gap while benefiting our businesses and communities, particularly in our regions.” 

    During his visit, Mr Jones will meet Singaporean government representatives and participate in a ministerial leaders’ panel discussion at the Singapore International Energy Week forum, an annual platform for energy professionals, policymakers, and commentators to share best practices and solutions within the global energy sector. 

    “The forum focuses on ensuring a reliable and secure energy supply and promotes effective competition in the energy market which, in light of our recent domestic challenges, is at the forefront of many New Zealanders’ minds,” Mr Jones says. 

    “I look forward to contributing to that discussion by sharing New Zealand’s experiences.”

    New Zealand and Singapore will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its bilateral diplomatic relations in 2025 and are working to elevate the New Zealand-Singapore Enhanced Partnership signed in 2019.

    Mr Jones leaves for Singapore today and returns to New Zealand on 26 October.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Vietnam Offshore Wind Competitive Investor Selection Study

    Source: Global Wind Energy Council – GWEC

    Headline: Vietnam Offshore Wind Competitive Investor Selection Study

    Offshore wind (OFW) is essential for Vietnam’s energy security, economic growth, and carbon reduction goals. Recent developments signal significant progress in advancing OFW development in Vietnam. Vietnam’s PDP8 (Power Development Plan 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050) establishes ambitious OFW targets of 6 GW by 2030 and between 70 to 91.5 GW by 2050.

    Despite the ambitious target, the development of OFW has been hindered by a lack of a comprehensive regulatory framework and clear guidance on key processes such as marine spatial planning, leasing, and routes to market.

    The current developer-led model may have served its purpose initially, but it lacks the efficiency and transparency necessary for rapid deployment of OFW projects. Defining a long-term competitive investor selection model for OFW would provide certainty to all stakeholders, allow the development of infrastructure and achieve learning curve cost reductions.

    Therefore, GWEC has commissioned this forward-looking “Vietnam OFW Competitive Investor Selection Study” report. The report outlines industry’s position regarding the fit-for-purpose approach to a competitive investor selection process for OFW projects moving forward. This report has proposed a two-stage competitive model for OFW development in Vietnam.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN shares views with Channel News Asia

    Source: ASEAN

    While in Singapore for the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2024 Summit, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today shared his views and perspectives with Channel News Asia (CNA), where he highlighted the key outcomes of the recently-held 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Meetings in Vientiane, Lao PDR, and talked about the importance of promoting ASEAN’s relations with its external partners, among others.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN shares views with Channel News Asia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary General of ASEAN participates in Singapore International Energy Week 2024

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered a keynote speech at the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2024 Summit, held in Singapore. In his remarks, Dr. Kao emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation among ASEAN Member States as well as between ASEAN and its external partners in strengthening regional energy security and sustainable development. He also highlighted ASEAN’s efforts under the ASEAN Plan of Action and Energy Cooperation (APAEC) Phase II 2021-2025, in which he urged for greater synergy in advancing regional initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) and fostering innovation in renewable energy to meet future energy demands.

    Download the full speech here.

    The post Secretary General of ASEAN participates in Singapore International Energy Week 2024 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APAC companies add $550 billion in MCap in Q3 2024, driven by China’s stimulus and strong regional demand, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    APAC companies add $550 billion in MCap in Q3 2024, driven by China’s stimulus and strong regional demand, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region experienced a significant surge in market capitalization (MCap), with the top 50 companies gaining $550 billion in the third quarter (Q3) of 2024. This growth was fueled by China’s fiscal stimulus, strong domestic demand in India and Southeast Asia, and better-than-expected corporate earnings, underscoring the region’s resilience amid global uncertainties, reveals a study by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    At the end of Q3 2024, the combined market value of the companies in the technology sector reached $3.3 trillion, while those in the financial services sector totaled $527.4 billion. Among the top 50 companies, 19 companies were from the technology sector. In terms of geographic distribution, 19 were based out of China, 15 from Japan, and seven from India.

    Murthy Grandhi, Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Asian stocks surged in late September following the announcement of a comprehensive stimulus package by the Chinese policymakers. While individual measures such as interest rate cuts and reduced downpayment requirements for home purchases have been introduced over the past year, the coordinated nature of September’s initiative marked the strongest indication, yet Beijing is committed to bolster the Chinese economy and stabilize the stock markets.

    “The Bank of Japan’s July rate hike, coupled with Governor Ueda Kazuo’s signals of further increases, was swiftly followed by weak US labor market data. As the interest rate gap between the US and Japan narrowed, the Japanese yen strengthened significantly, triggering a rapid unwinding of many ‘carry trades’ that had benefited from low Japanese borrowing costs. A more reassuring stance from BoJ officials later helped Japanese stocks recover some of their losses.”

    Companies that witnessed significant gains include Chinese food-delivery giant Meituan, which experienced more than 50% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) growth in its market capitalization owing to the stronger-than-expected quarterly results and share buyback announcement.

    Alibaba Group’s market valuation soared by 46.2% during the quarter, following the announcement of the completion of a three-year regulatory “rectification” process. This development came after the company was fined for monopolistic practices in 2021 as part of an antitrust investigation.

    The shares of China Life Insurance saw a 46.1% increase in market capitalization, driven by the company’s strong interim financial results.

    Grandhi adds: “The Chinese constituents in the top 50 APAC companies list witnessed a 18% increase in market value, driven by the announcement of China’s fiscal stimulus package. Oil majors CNOOC and PetroChina experienced market capitalization loss of 12.3% and 10.3%, respectively, owing to slump in crude oil prices.”

    Chipmakers SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics experienced significant declines in market value, dropping by 22.2% and 20.1%, respectively. These losses reflect concerns over a potential oversupply in the market, despite the low probability of this occurring.

    Additionally, Samsung is facing challenges in maintaining its lead in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips, a crucial component in AI processors, as domestic competitor SK Hynix’s latest HBM products are reportedly undergoing testing for possible integration into processors from leading AI-chip maker Nvidia.

    Grandhi concludes: “Into Q4 2024, APAC companies could be keenly keeping an eye on the monetary policies of their respective countries, with interest rates likely to be cut down, albeit not to extend of the recent US Fed rate cuts. Additionally, the ongoing Middle East crisis could disrupt the market, affecting investor confidence and business strategies. However, APAC’s resilience, driven by innovation and supply chain strengthening, will help them in navigating these uncertainties and in sustaining the growth story.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Bank “ROSSIYA” acted as a partner of the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum-2024

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Bank “ROSSIA” Russia Bank –

    Press Releases and Events

    10/21/2024

    Bank “ROSSIYA” acted as a partner of the St. Petersburg International Gas Forum-2024

    Bank “ROSSIYA” acted as a partner and took part in the events of the XIII St. Petersburg International Gas Forum (SPIGF-2024), which was held from October 8 to 11.

    SPIGF is one of the most authoritative business events in the gas industry, which annually brings together leading representatives of the global community and is one of the largest international congress and exhibition projects in the oil and gas industry.

    A joint seminar of Bank “ROSSIYA” and the Gazprom Mezhregiongaz Group, dedicated to payment fee standards, was held on the sidelines of the forum. As part of the event, the Bank presented the latest developments in the field of collecting payments for gas and shared its experience in implementing all components of the Smorodina platform in Dagestan. Also during the forum, agreements on cooperation between the Bank and leading market players were signed.

    Cooperation with enterprises of the Russian gas industry is a priority for Bank “ROSSIYA”. The bank actively finances projects of gas companies, and also develops and implements progressive high-tech solutions in the field of digitalization of enterprise processes and to improve consumer convenience.

    The work of Bank “ROSSIYA” at the SPIGF-2024 forum received high praise from the organizers, guests and partners of the event.

    Back to list

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://abr.ru/about/nevs/13755/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Recruitment has begun for the targeted training program in procurement management from Gazprom Neft

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    In October, the traditional recruitment for the additional professional education program “Procurement Management at Oil and Gas Complex Enterprises” started, which is implemented by the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade with the support of PJSC Gazprom Neft. In the 2024-2025 academic year, this is already the eleventh launch of the advanced training program.

    This program trains specialists in procurement and logistics for the oil and gas industry. The training is targeted and lasts two semesters, intended for master’s students, fifth-year specialists and fourth-year bachelor’s students of SPbPU. To enroll in the program, you must have an average diploma grade of at least 4.0 and be ready to undergo an internship in any region where Gazprom Neft subsidiaries are present.

    Each year, no more than 13 students are admitted to the program, each of whom undergoes a multi-stage selection process. After submitting an application, including a questionnaire, resume, and motivation letter, the applicant must undergo verbal and digital testing, as well as an interview with Gazprom Neft representatives.

    During their studies, students master about 20 educational modules. Among them: organization of procurement activities, project supply management, management of relationships with counterparties, transport and warehouse logistics, inventory management, basics of accounting and taxation in procurement. Classes are taught by teachers of the Polytechnic University and invited experts from Gazprom Neft.

    After the theoretical course, students undergo a mandatory four-week internship at the Gazprom Neft group of companies. The program ends with the defense of their diploma theses. Students who have proven themselves during their studies and internship are offered jobs at Gazprom Neft or its subsidiaries located in many cities in Russia.

    Training in the program and summer practice of students are financed by PJSC Gazprom Neft.

    The additional education program has been implemented by the Higher School of Industrial Management of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade on the basis of the Master’s program “Management in the Oil and Gas Complex”, within the framework of cooperation with Gazprom Neft since 2015.

    You can follow the news about the program on the website and in the university’s social networks, as well as in the group “Management in the oil and gas complex”.

    Contacts for admission questions:

    From SPbPU: program administrator Vyacheslav Dmitrievich Melehin, e-mail: v4mr@yandex.ru

    From Gazprom Neft: Ekaterina Igorevna Ershova, e-mail: dpo@gazprom-neft.ru

    Link to the registration form

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/education/recruitment has begun for the targeted-training-programme-for-procurement-management-from-Gazprom-neft/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft enterprises held an environmental championship in the Kadosh forest park in Tuapse

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    RN-Tuapse Marine Terminal (part of the Commerce and Logistics Block of Rosneft Oil Company) organized the Championship in Sports Garbage Collection among the Company’s enterprises operating in the Tuapse District of Krasnodar Krai. About 150 volunteers took part in the environmental action to clean up the natural monument – Kiselev Rocks, including employees of the terminal, RN-Tuapse Oil Refinery, a branch of SIBINTEK Investment Company, RN-Uchet, as well as activists of the youth “Movement of the First”, students, environmentalists and concerned local residents.

    “RN-Tuapse Marine Terminal” and the Tuapse District Administration held a joint environmental campaign in the format of sports competitions for the third time. Teams of participants collected the maximum amount of household waste in the forest park for a time. Each team brought the collected bags to the judges’ site, where the judges determined the winners. Volunteers also sorted the waste for further recycling. The first place in the Championship was taken by the team of organizers – “RN-Tuapse Marine Terminal”, the second – “SIBINTEK”, the “bronze” was won by the “Movement of the First” team. The participants of the Championship collected more than 10 cubic meters of household waste, returning the pristine appearance of the natural area popular with tourists.

    The Kiselev Rock cleanup campaign is the oil workers’ contribution to the development of the environmental movement, as well as the involvement of the population in preserving the unique nature of Kuban, promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle.

    Preserving the environment for future generations is an integral part of Rosneft’s corporate culture and social policy. The company also pays attention to developing a healthy lifestyle culture and comprehensively supports sports.

    “RN-Tuapse Marine Terminal” in its activities is guided by high environmental standards of rational use of natural resources and preservation of a favorable environmental situation in the region of presence. Every year the enterprise participates in the “Earth Hour” and “Green Spring” campaigns, and also holds clean-up days, maintains the cleanliness of the road leading to the city beach of Tuapse. Such events not only help to preserve the unique nature of the Tuapse region, but also contribute to environmental education, popularization of an environmentally responsible lifestyle.

    Reference:

    Kiselev Rock is a natural monument that has become part of the protected Kadosh forest park, which occupies 300 hectares in the picturesque Tuapse region of Krasnodar Krai. The forest park is home to 30 species of trees and shrubs, 7 vines, 255 species of herbaceous plants, including rare orchids.

    Kiselev Rock is famous as the location where episodes of Leonid Gaidai’s film “The Diamond Arm” were filmed. Tourists visiting these places not only admire the beauty of nature, but also immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the famous film.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft October 21, 2024

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/220929/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Leil Storage: Green File Storage for Africa

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In alignment with Africa Human Rights Day, Leil Storage announces the expansion of its Green Storage Initiative, an endeavor set to revolutionize file storage across Africa. This initiative underscores commitment to sustainability and affordability, promising a profound impact on the continent’s digital infrastructure.

    Energy- and Cost-Effective Solutions

    Leil Storage is setting standards in energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness with its storage solutions. These solutions achieve a remarkable 43% reduction in electricity usage and lower power consumption per terabyte. Such advancements are particularly beneficial for data-intensive sectors including healthcare, oil and gas, telecommunications, research, educational institutions, local providers, and scientific organizations.

    Meeting Africa’s Data Demands

    Africa’s storage industry is projected to grow significantly by 2030, Leil Storage’s sustainable solutions are timely and essential. This growth is driven by the continent’s increasing population and rapid digitalization, making offerings crucial for addressing these evolving needs.

    Unprecedented Pricing Structure

    The Green Storage Initiative introduces a groundbreaking pricing model: storage at just 0.8 EUR per terabyte per month, charged upfront. This all-inclusive rate covers all necessary hardware, networking equipment, software, support, and upgrades—excluding only freight—providing both end users and partners with a comprehensive and transparent solution. This pricing is unprecedented in the industry and applies to capacities starting from 10 petabytes. For smaller capacities, we invite discussions to tailor solutions that meet specific needs.

    Commitment to Sustainability

    Central to our initiative is a commitment to green features and sustainability. By reducing energy consumption, Leil Storage aligns with global efforts towards sustainable development. This enables African nations to leapfrog outdated technologies and avoid extensive data migrations, fostering sustainable growth across the region.

    Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future

    Leil Storage actively seeks partnerships in distribution as part of this initiative. We are dedicated to working together towards a sustainable digital future in Africa and welcome interested parties to join us on this journey. We encourage all interested bodies—including research and scientific, educational, CSPs — to get in touch by writing to africa@leil.io.

    “Leil Storage offers more than just products; we offer a vision for a greener, more sustainable future in data storage, tailored to meet the unique challenges and opportunities in Africa,” stated David Gerstein, CTO at Leil Storage. By embracing innovative solutions and fostering collaboration, Leil Storage is not only transforming data storage but also contributing significantly to the sustainable development of Africa.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0cd54fc9-37db-45af-8a59-1bd9df843b3e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: People around the world are using courts to question whether climate policies are fair – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Annalisa Savaresi, Senior Lecturer, Environmental Law, University of Stirling

    Coal workers suing their government over job losses. Indigenous people using the courts to block wind farms or anti-deforestation policies that violate their cultural rights. What these cases have in common is they challenge the fairness of climate policies and projects themselves.

    Our new study, carried out with researchers from 16 universities and published in Nature Sustainability, finds that cases like these are increasingly being filed all over the world.

    We coined the term “just transition litigation” to describe these cases. This term captures a focus on ensuring that climate action balances the transition to a low-carbon economy with social justice and the protection of vulnerable communities.

    This phenomenon must be kept distinct from that of climate litigation, which tends to focus on holding governments and companies accountable for failing to reduce emissions or adapt to climate change.

    Our research began in 2020, when we started noticing a growing number of cases that didn’t fit the conventional model of climate litigation. For example, in Chile, union workers sued the government, arguing that they had been excluded from discussions regarding the phase-out of coal plants. The Chilean Supreme Court ruled in favour of the workers, emphasising that a just transition strategy — one that includes consultation with affected communities — is essential for achieving carbon neutrality.

    Similarly, in Norway, the Sami Indigenous people successfully challenged wind farm licenses, which the country’s Supreme Court found to have violated their cultural rights to herd reindeer. In Colombia, Indigenous people argued that projects aimed at reducing deforestation on their land violated their rights to self-determination and cultural integrity.



    Read more:
    Reindeer: ancient migration routes disrupted by roads, dams – and now wind farms

    In pursuit of justice

    Just transition litigation seeks to ensure that the shift toward a greener economy is fair and inclusive, particularly for those who may be disadvantaged by the rapid changes it brings. The applicants in these cases often include regular workers, Indigenous people, women, children, minorities and other groups who are typically underrepresented in legislative and decision-making processes. (Our concept of just transition litigation excludes lawsuits brought by corporations seeking to protect their own interests at the expense of broader societal fairness.)

    At the core of this litigation is the pursuit of justice. As countries shift to low-carbon economies, these policies inevitably produce both winners and losers. Oil and gas workers lose their jobs. Indigenous people are displaced or see the world around them changed by new wind or solar farms. All these people lament being treated unjustly.

    To ensure widespread support for climate policies, their grievances should not be dismissed as mere nimbyism. Rather, they should be recognised as carrying precious insights into the fairness, equity, and social impacts of climate policies and projects.

    The litigation we looked at calls upon courts to assess climate action against various different legal frameworks, ranging from constitutional and human rights law to corporate accountability standards. Some lawsuits use arguments of distributive justice, which focus on the allocation of resources and burdens. Some look at procedural justice, such as inclusive decision-making. Others want what is termed recognition justice, which focuses on respect for marginalised groups.

    Why this matters

    All this reflects a growing recognition that climate action may come at a cost to certain groups, especially those already on the margins of society. It also underscores the need to address the social justice of climate action and ensure it does not make the world even less equal.

    The core issue is that, while much attention is given to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, less emphasis has been placed on ensuring we do so equitably. This is especially the case at a time when governments in the EU , the UK and the US are announcing plans to cut the red tape and expedite the transition.

    As more communities turn to courts to seek justice, our study highlights an urgent need for policymakers to embrace inclusive, transparent and equitable processes. Decisions over who owns land, or what jobs people can do, should involve those most affected. Ensuring that climate policies are fair and just will not only protect vulnerable groups but also foster broader public support.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Joana Setzer receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Foundation for International Law for the Environment, and the Grantham Foundation for the Protection of the Environment

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

    – ref. People around the world are using courts to question whether climate policies are fair – new study – https://theconversation.com/people-around-the-world-are-using-courts-to-question-whether-climate-policies-are-fair-new-study-241093

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The gas crisis is not over yet

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Bradshaw, Professor of Global Energy, Warwick Business School, University of Warwick

    Oleksandr Filatov/Shutterstock

    Policy and luck have bought Europe a reprieve from the heights gas prices reached between the winters of 2022 and 2023, but prices are climbing again and the global gas market remains precariously balanced.

    Rising tensions in the Middle East could upend it. If conflict spills into the Persian Gulf, it could disrupt shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar that equal 20% of global exports.

    We believe this winter will be the final act of the gas crisis. Here’s what we should expect.

    Dangerously underprepared

    The case for Britain to rapidly phase out natural gas in heating and power generation is overwhelming. It would unburden household bills of expensive gas imports and leave the country less vulnerable to energy supply crunches, while also cutting carbon emissions. Doing so will take time: as of today, the UK relies on gas for 37% of all energy consumption.

    British households in particular are perilously exposed to gas prices. Directly, because four-fifths of households use gas for space heating. Indirectly, because in the UK, electricity prices are set by the price of gas-fired generation. After a decade of failed home insulation and energy-efficiency policies, the UK still has some of the draughtiest homes in Europe. It simply takes more energy to heat British homes, which lose heat three times faster than European neighbours.

    Since the beginning of the recent crisis, the UK government has done little to change these facts. The end of the winter fuel payment to pensioners adds fresh concern. The Energy Crisis Commission recently found that the UK remains “dangerously underprepared” for a repeat of the gas price explosion of 2022-23.

    All told, the UK cannot be oblivious to developments in the global gas market.

    A crisis in the making

    Resurgent gas demand after the lifting of COVID restrictions led to a quadrupling of UK gas prices in 2021. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Vladimir Putin throttled pipeline gas exports to Europe.

    Europe turned to its greatest source of flexible gas supply: seaborne LNG. A price war for cargoes followed. The spending power of European economies pulled shipments away from low-income countries in Asia, such as Pakistan and Bangladesh, which caused crippling blackouts and a pivot to coal-fired generation.

    Energy bills for an average household in the UK hit £4,279 in January 2023. The government protected consumers from the very worst at a cost of £51 billion in 2022-23, but the average household lost 8% of its budget to energy costs in 2022, rising to 18% for the poorest tenth of households. Roughly 2 million households on pre-payment meters were being cut off from their energy supply at least once a month at the height of the crisis.

    Clement winters, moderate gas demand in Asia and successful measures to curb European gas demand saw UK gas prices fall from mid-2023. But they are still relatively high – at 48% above the average in the three years before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    One more winter

    Could things get worse? Back in 2022, experts spoke of a “three-winter crisis” because significant new LNG export capacity (primarily in the US and Qatar) wasn’t expected until 2025. That has held true, and supply and demand in the global LNG market remains taut.

    Several disturbances could destabilise this balance. The International Energy Agency expects that over 2024, global growth in gas demand will exceed the rate of growth in new LNG supply. Attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by the Houthi militia in Yemen, in response to Israel’s invasion of Gaza, have rerouted LNG shipping routes. Cargoes that would have passed through the Suez Canal must now take the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope.

    At the end of 2024, a major five-year agreement governing the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine will expire, and there is no prospect of renewal. Russian gas supplies to Europe will fall by around 5% of the EU’s total gas imports, or 65% of all gas imports into Austria, Hungary and Slovakia.

    While Europe has been saved by mild winters over the last two years, this luck could break in 2024-25 according to some forecasts. Temperature – and the demand it creates for heating – will probably decide winter gas prices in Europe.

    Geopolitical blowback

    How might the worst-case scenario of conflict in the Persian Gulf happen?

    LNG is shipped by sea on large tankers.
    Wojciech Wrzesien/Shutterstock

    Israel’s escalating military assaults on Hezbollah since September 17 have coincided with a 17% rise in UK gas prices. After Iran’s missile and drone strikes against Israel on October 1, European gas prices hit a new high for the year. This saw three LNG tankers destined for Asia change course mid-journey and head for Europe.

    Israel has vowed retribution for the Iranian strike. Having obliterated Gaza and decapitated Hezbollah’s leadership, and with resolute material support from the US, Israel may now see Iran as vulnerable.

    A severe response by Israel, targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities or oil infrastructure, would further up the ante. Wishing to avoid direct conflict, Iran could decide to target not Israel, but the flow of oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz on which its western backers depend. Qatari LNG shipments through the strait account for 20% of global supply on their own.

    Any interruption would also block Iran’s oil exports, afflict Iran’s friends as much as its foes, and kill Iran’s current reconciliation with the Gulf states. It is unlikely, but one would hope that the warning signs in the global gas market would remind western decision-makers that the conflict in the Middle East can continue to blow back on them.


    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get our award-winning weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Michael Bradshaw receives funding from the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) that is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). He also advises the government, thinktanks and companies on energy matters.

    Louis Fletcher receives funding from the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC), which is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

    – ref. The gas crisis is not over yet – https://theconversation.com/the-gas-crisis-is-not-over-yet-241538

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Announces $44 Million to Develop Carbon Storage Hub for West Virginia, Surrounding States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin

    October 22, 2024

    Charleston, WV– Yesterday, Senator Joe Manchin III (I-WV), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, announced an award of more than $44 million from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management for the development of a carbon storage hub in Marshall County that will serve West Virginia and surrounding states. This funding was made possible by Chairman Manchin’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    “West Virginia has always been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge energy technologies,” said Chairman Manchin. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Mountain State will continue to lead the way by advancing innovative carbon storage infrastructure to help reduce emissions. This new technology will support critical industries in our state and create good paying jobs in the region.” 

    This location was chosen due to its proximity to projects planned as part of the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub that Chairman Manchin led a ribbon cutting for in August.

    To learn more about the project, click here.

    To learn more about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ACP Statement on Massachusetts Legislation to Advance Offshore Wind and Energy Storage

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Statement on Massachusetts Legislation to Advance Offshore Wind and Energy Storage

    WASHINGTON D.C., October 22, 2024 – The American Clean Power Association (ACP) released the following statement from Moira Cyphers, ACP Director for Atlantic Offshore & Eastern State Affairs after comprehensive legislation was introduced in Massachusetts enhancing clean energy deployment. Key features include a major overhaul of energy infrastructure permitting, increased support for renewable sources like wind, solar, and expanded battery storage:
    “This legislation is a win-win for Massachusetts. By streamlining the siting and permitting processes, this legislation would significantly benefit offshore wind power and energy storage, enabling faster deployment of crucial infrastructure. Allowing longer power contracts of up to 30 years, the legislation aims to create more stable investments and potentially lower electricity costs for consumers. Additionally, the focus on enhancing battery storage facilities will support the integration of renewable energy, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future. Importantly, this bill will create new jobs and lead to cleaner air. ACP urges legislators to ensure its swift passage and we look forward to ongoing collaboration to see that happen.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ACP Statement on Massachusetts Legislation to Advance Offshore Wind and Energy Storage

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Statement on Massachusetts Legislation to Advance Offshore Wind and Energy Storage

    WASHINGTON D.C., October 22, 2024 – The American Clean Power Association (ACP) released the following statement from Moira Cyphers, ACP Director for Atlantic Offshore & Eastern State Affairs after comprehensive legislation was introduced in Massachusetts enhancing clean energy deployment. Key features include a major overhaul of energy infrastructure permitting, increased support for renewable sources like wind, solar, and expanded battery storage:
    “This legislation is a win-win for Massachusetts. By streamlining the siting and permitting processes, this legislation would significantly benefit offshore wind power and energy storage, enabling faster deployment of crucial infrastructure. Allowing longer power contracts of up to 30 years, the legislation aims to create more stable investments and potentially lower electricity costs for consumers. Additionally, the focus on enhancing battery storage facilities will support the integration of renewable energy, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future. Importantly, this bill will create new jobs and lead to cleaner air. ACP urges legislators to ensure its swift passage and we look forward to ongoing collaboration to see that happen.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Joins Democratic Efforts to Put a Spotlight on Project 2025 with New Documentary Style Video Series

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    New Documentary Video Series Details Project 2025’s Threat to Reproductive Freedom, Workers’ Rights, Environmental Protections, Public Education, and American Democracy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) joined Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) for a five-part video documentary series detailing Project 2025’s threat to democracy, reproductive freedom, workers’ rights, environmental regulation, and public education. The series will feature interviews with Representatives Kamlager-Dove, Goldman, and 11 of their House Democratic colleagues from across the country, as well as American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Planned Parenthood Vice President Karen Stone, NY League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe, and Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove will highlight the devastating impacts Project 2025 would have on the environment.

    Watch the Trailer for the Series Here

    “Project 2025 poses a grave threat, not just to our democracy but to our planet, too,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “This hostile takeover of the federal government would depose dedicated public servants and install Trump loyalists and climate denialists at the EPA, enabling Republicans to slash environmental protections at the behest of Big Oil. But Project 2025 doesn’t stop at encouraging the world’s worst polluters—this agenda also seeks to discontinue air quality, clean energy, and decarbonization programs by overturning the Inflation Reduction Act, harming the health of our communities and the environment, eliminating clean energy jobs, and exacerbating the climate crisis. With Project 2025, Republicans have shown that they will continue to put polluters over people—this plan must be stopped.”

    As an increasing share of Americans consume their news from non-traditional sources on Instagram, YouTube, and other social media sites, Congressman Goldman’s series marks an effort by Democrats to reach audiences where they are in a diversified media landscape. Across various social media platforms, the first two videos of the series have received over 400,000 views, signaling the potential of this new format to reach large numbers of Americans.

    “Project 2025’s shocking plan to gut checks and balances, restrict abortion access, decimate public education, pollute our air and water, and endanger American workers for the sole benefit of Republican authoritarian extremists is utterly reprehensible and incredibly dangerous,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This document is a detailed guide for how a second Trump administration will dismantle our democracy, and it is critical that the American people understand exactly how Trump intends to do it. I am proud to be joined by so many of my colleagues and policy leaders to expose this radical plan to reshape American society as we know it.”

    Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint said, “Project 2025 is a far-right plan by Trump allies to impose Christian nationalist values onto every American. It goes completely against our American values to promote a strong, resilient democracy; in fact this plan aims to erode our democratic institutions by gutting checks and balances and seizing power for the presidency. Project 2025 is nothing short of an anti-freedom and anti-equality agenda: it further attacks reproductive rights and disproportionately harms communities of color and our LGBTQI+ community. Project 2025 would increase gun violence rather than protect our communities. And its plan to abolish the Department of Education would hurt millions of families whose kids go to public schools, teachers who are already underpaid, and students. It’s dangerous and we must take it extremely seriously. I’m proud to be a part of this series to help Americans understand the threat it poses to our values and democratic norms.”

    Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici said, “Project 2025 is a blueprint for MAGA extremists to undermine government and destroy programs and policies that support working families. It’s the product of people who held top positions in the previous administration and special interest groups that hold significant influence over the GOP’s agenda. I’m working with my colleagues to counter this extremist plan and to educate Americans about its potentially devastating effects.”

    Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu said, “Trump and his allies’ Project 2025 is a 900 page comprehensive plan for MAGA Republicans to grab power for themselves, enrich their allies, and shatter our already fragile democracy. Project 2025 touches on every agency in the federal government and is January 6th extremism crafted into a governing ideology: fire tens of thousands of civil servants to replace them with partisan loyalists, abolish checks and balances, chip away at church-state separation, and impose a far-right agenda that rips away our freedoms and takes money out of pockets. It’s so critical for House Democrats to work together to shine a light on as many details of this plan as possible so we can equip ourselves and the American people with the information we need to fight back and make certain we put systems into place to protect us from these extreme policies.”

    Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett said, “Let me make it plain: Project 2025 is the GOP’s attack plan against the American constitution. It doesn’t just undermine the progress made in this country for women, people of color, and LGBTQIA folks over the past century; it undermines the very principles of self-government that our country was founded on. If our Founding Fathers were to read Project 2025, they would have thought it was sent over by King George himself. It’s a blueprint for authoritarianism, a blueprint for monarchy, and a blueprint for a right-wing dictatorship in America that will end our democratic experiment for good. If the majority of Americans were to read and understand this plan – a plan authored by hundreds of members of former President Trump’s administration – they would reject it as un-American and dangerous. Thank you to Congressman Goldman for bringing us together to break down Project 2025 from every angle – no matter how engaged you are, you can still learn something from this series.”

    Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner said, “Donald Trump’s Project 2025 will hand a future Trump administration nearly unlimited power to ban abortion, take away healthcare for people with preexisting conditions, and rip away the freedoms that Americans have fought hard for. Trump’s Project 2025 is dangerous, cruel, and out-of-touch with the needs of the American people. We will not let Trump and Congressional Republicans take us back.”

    House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning said, “Project 2025 is simply a more detailed blueprint of Donald Trump’s extreme MAGA agenda that promises to roll back Americans’ basic rights and freedoms. Because of Donald Trump and the three extreme MAGA Justices he appointed to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe. v. Wade, one in three women of reproductive age lives in a state with a Trump abortion ban. Now, his extreme Project 2025 plans will attack reproductive freedoms even further by targeting abortion pills and contraception coverage, and threatening IVF treatments. Project 2025 would also ban the mailing of abortion medications, equipment, or materials, effectively creating a nationwide, backdoor abortion ban — without the approval of Congress.”

    Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross said, “Project 2025 is a 920-page manifesto designed to tell every American how to live their life. If enacted into law, Project 2025 would destroy the 250-year-old system of checks and balances that make up our democracy and completely dismantle almost every labor standard that protects workers. As a union electrician and co-chair of the Labor Caucus, it pains me to see a document that would strip away worker protections and fair labor practices that working families have been fighting for decades. I’m proud to join Rep. Goldman in this video series to help explain the threat Project 2025 poses to American values, ideals, and freedoms.”

    Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett said, “Project 2025 is the playbook for Donald Trump’s second term, which will ensure that the few have power over the many and that the rule of law as we know it, is gone. It is a plan to ensure that the federal government no longer acts as a check on the greed and desire for absolute power that Trump and his cohort of friends share. In every way, Project 2025 will make Americans less safe and less free. Republicans know that these ideas are not popular with the people of America and that’s why they hide from the facts, obfuscate the truth and distract the public’s attention with wild claims to vilify minorities and keep us divided. It is imperative that we all do our part to ensure that Donald Trump is not allowed to enforce the clear and present danger that the Project 2025 master plan represents to American democracy.”

    American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said, Project 2025 is about institutionalizing Trumpism. It’s about going after educational opportunity, economic opportunity and equal opportunity. It’s about going after the legitimacy of elections. This is the stuff of demagogues and dictators, not democracies. This is not the promise of America. We can and must do better than this—for the sake of our families and the future of our republic.”

    Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone said, “Project 2025 isn’t about serving the people; it’s about ensuring that political loyalty becomes the guiding rule. They want to replace our government’s independent watchdogs with partisan loyalists, dismantling checks and balances to consolidate power in the executive branch. With a captured Supreme Court and a weaponized Department of Justice, the next conservative administration would have all the tools they needed to drive America closer and closer to their idealized far-right dystopia, at the cost of our personal freedoms.”

    A third of all U.S adults say they regularly get their news from Facebook or YouTube, and nearly 20% report preferring to receive their news from social media. As more Americans turn to non-traditional platforms such as social media, YouTube, and online searches to stay informed Congressman Goldman is focused on ensuring that important information reaches all Americans in this rapidly transforming media landscape.

    In addition to Representatives Kamlager-Dove and Goldman, the following members of Congress are featured in the series: Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu (CA-28), Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Lois Frankel (FL-22), Dads Caucus Founder and Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner (RI-02), House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning (NC-06), Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), and Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Co-Chair Paul Tonko (NY-20).

    Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan for the next conservative president to swiftly enact the most anti-democratic and archconservative agenda in the history of this country. It lays the groundwork for Donald Trump to seize power, gut checks and balances, and enact a radical agenda. It touches on every department and agency within the federal government.

    The Heritage Foundation, a right-wing think tank funded by shady dark money interests, has been plotting Project 2025, an unprecedented scheme to help the next conservative president quickly enact the most radical agenda in the history of the country. The plan is laying the groundwork for a new president to seize power and enact broad changes that are deeply unpopular with the American people. This includes vastly expanding the ability of the president to purge civil servants who are not sufficiently loyal to this extreme right-wing agenda.

    • Within the first 180 days of taking office, the plan calls for attacks on reproductive rights, the rule of law, and the expansion of the cruel and inhumane immigration policies from the Trump administration. Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan that would touch every department of the federal government and fundamentally reshape the lives of the American people. The Project’s four-pronged strategy that includes:
      • A laundry list of extreme policies to be enacted across the federal government;
      • A blueprint for how to use existing authority—or expand the power of the presidency—to implement right-wing policy proposals;
      • A database of right-wing ideologues who wholeheartedly endorse this power grab and far-right policies;
      • Training for staff so they can more efficiently enact this extreme agenda.

    While Project 2025 is being run out of the Heritage Foundation, its advisors include former Trump White House aides like Stephen Miller, and more than half the groups supporting the effort have received $21.5 million in funding from Leonard Leo’s dark money network.

    Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove is a member of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: DOE Awards $48.6 Million in Support of Project Tundra

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    10.22.24

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded more than $48.6 million in support of Project Tundra, a carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) effort led by Minnkota Power Cooperative. The funding is being awarded to the DCC East Project in Grand Forks.

    “North Dakota has always been a leader in energy innovation and now with Project Tundra, we’re leading the technology development of carbon capture and storage on a traditional coal-fired power plant,” said Hoeven. “Project Tundra is vital to the future of our lignite industry, and will help ensure we have the reliability and affordability of coal-fired electric power today and for future generations.”

    Hoeven has worked to advance Project Tundra to provide a way forward for the state’s coal-fired electric industry. Last year, Minnkota and Hoeven announced that Project Tundra had entered its final stage of development as new affiliates, including TC Energy, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kiewit, were added to build the project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS discusses water security challenges with Namibia and Botswana agencies

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The USGS Office of International Programs’ Science Advisor for International Water John Lane and USGS Water Mission Area Hydrologic Networks Branch Chief Molly Wood visited Namibia and Botswana on an assignment of the U.S. Ambassador’s Water Experts Program (AWEP). AWEP is administered by the Department of Interior International Technical Assistance Program (DOI ITAP) with funding from the U.S. State Department, Bureau of Oceans and International Environment and Scientific Affairs. 

    USGS scientists met with representatives of the water sector in both countries, including government ministries, bulk water suppliers, municipal utilities operators, multinational water commissions, private consultants, and U.S. Embassy staff. 

    Namibia and Botswana have semi-arid to arid climates and are undergoing severe drought. Water resources for drinking water supply, livestock watering, mining, and industry are stretched thin. The Namibia and Botswana governments are seeking technical support for improved understanding and use of available water resources.

    Discussions centered on potential USGS support to Namibia and Botswana agencies to

    • Leverage remote sensing datasets to improve understanding of water availability,
    • Improve hydrologic monitoring networks to increase access to hydrologic data to inform water resource management decisions, and
    • Collaboratively develop scientific solutions to better manage groundwater and surface water resources to address the ongoing drought.

    DOI ITAP posted on Facebook about the visit.

    USGS employees Molly Wood (3rd from left) and John Lane (3rd from right) with staff from the Namibia Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, after a workshop on geophysics data collection.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four on International Monetary Affairs and Development

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    October 22, 2024

    1. The G-24 expresses its deep concern over the humanitarian crises and conflicts afflicting numerous regions across the globe, resulting in loss of lives, immense suffering, forced displacement and migration for countless individuals. We call for a strong, united, multilateral approach to restore peace, stability, and livelihoods. To this end, we urge all parties to prioritize diplomacy, de-escalation, and cooperation. Furthermore, we call for robust multilateral support for recovery, reconstruction, and long-term development efforts in affected areas.

    2. Global economic growth is forecast to remain relatively stable in the coming year, but risks and uncertainties persist, especially for some Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs). Despite a projected stabilization of global growth in 2024 and 2025, the relatively optimistic forecast masks the tepid economicprospects in the most vulnerable countries. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions, trade fragmentation, increasingly frequent extreme weather conditions, and a more pronounced slowdown could pose significant headwinds to global growth and worsen some EMDEs’ prospects of as they deal with the spillover effect of Advanced Economies’ policies.

    3. Although inflationary pressures are gradually easing, the outlook remains uncertain due to elevated risks. Food price inflation is declining or stabilizing, and energy prices have remained low, in part reflecting the role of the OPEC Declaration of Cooperation in safeguarding oil market stability. Though many advanced economies have successfully brought inflation back to target levels, some EMDEs are still grappling with high inflation rates. Looking ahead, trade tensions and increased policy uncertainty would contribute to heightened upside risks to inflation. Furthermore, escalating geopolitical tensions could lead to heightened volatility in food and energy prices. Given the uncertainty, central banks may likely maintain a cautious approach to monetary easing, potentially keeping interest rates high for an extended period.

    4. Against this background, some EMDEs are confronted with significant challenges, as a prolonged period of elevated or slower reduction of policy rates increases external, fiscal, and financial risks. Furthermore, depreciation of some EMDE’s currencies, together with high debt and rising debt-servicing costs, is constraining fiscal space, impacting capital flows and growth, while straining financial stability. As EMDE policymakers struggle to balance sizable investment needs with fiscal sustainability, real growth could suffer.

    5. Given the uncertain economic environment, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) should stand ready to fulfill its role as the center of the Global Financial Safety Net. Strengthening the international monetary system by enhancing crisis prevention and adjustment mechanisms; coordinating global stability; and providing timely, predictable, and adequate liquidity support to members facing balance of payments difficulties will contribute to a more resilient and interconnected global economy.

    6. We welcome the ongoing reviews and updates of IMF procedures and policies, as this will support members. The incorporation of emerging challenges such as climate-related risks, domestic public debt, and complex debt restructuring scenarios in the review of the Low-Income Countries Debt Sustainability Framework (LIC-DSF) is welcome. However, we look forward to the comprehensive review which we hope will address the fundamental concerns about the methodology. Furthermore, the recent approval of the use of Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) for the acquisition of hybrid capital instruments by prescribed holders is a significant step forward. The approved limit of SDR15 billion could increase lending by four-fold, including through supporting the goals of G20 Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, the sustainable development and climate goals. We call on countries with strong external positions to voluntarily explore rechanneling SDRs, including through Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), where legally possible, while respecting the reserve asset quality of the SDR and ensuring their liquidity. 

    7. Ongoing refinements to the IMF’s lending toolkit provide another opportunity to address the challenges confronting members while strengthening IMF’s financial resilience. We welcome the refinements to the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST), including adjustments to its design to facilitate early disbursements, eliminate dual-purpose reforms, and ensure program continuity. We look forward to further work to operationalize the RST mandate on pandemic preparedness. We also call for the comprehensive review planned for 2026 to address the remaining issues, especially with respect to the requirement of an upper credit tranche program and expansion of focus into other medium-term challenges facing EMDEs. Additionally, we welcome the completion of the review of charges and surcharges that resulted in a reduction of the cost of borrowing from the General Resource Account. The approved changes are in the right direction, but we call on the IMF to consider initiating, as soon as possible, further reforms to provide more significant reduction of surcharges, and additional cut in the margin for the rate of charge. Furthermore, we welcome the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT) reforms, including the increase in resources for concessional financing, and the additional boost to the subsidy resources.

    8. The approval of a Third chair for Sub-Saharan Africa at the IMF Executive Board would strengthen the region’s voice, improve its representation, and simultaneously, reduce the workload of the region’s officials. Additionally, we recommend further pursuit of governance reforms in MDBs and International Financial Institutions, (IFIs), to correct the regional and gender underrepresentation in their top management and senior staff positions. We call upon all countries to complete the internal approval procedures for the 16th General Review as soon as possible. We await the result of the ongoing efforts to develop possible approaches for a new quota formula and we hope that it will serve as a guide for quota realignment that reflects members’ relative economic weight and strengthen the voice of EMDEs under the 17th General Review of Quotas. As the review is crucial for the legitimacy of the IMF, we emphasize the importance of adhering to the June 2025 deadline.

    9. We welcome the progress in the implementation of the World Bank Group (WBG) Evolution Roadmap. The launch of the PortfolioGuarantee Platform, and stronger private capital mobilization efforts have the potential to help bring additional resources to support client countries in meeting their development needs. We hope that more contributions to the Livable Planet Fund would incentivize global challenge related projects across borders, and that the launch of the Grant Facility for Project Preparation Trust Fund would enhance clients’ institutional capacity in project preparations. Not only is it paramount to increase investment, but such investment must be at an affordable cost in order to ensure the debt sustainability of EMDEs as they pursue new growth strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. Therefore, we look forward to a timely and successful conclusion of the 2-stage International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loan pricing adjustments to enhance affordability of IBRD loan.

    10. International Development Association, (IDA21), replenishment will be crucial for supporting vulnerable populations, breaking the cycle of poverty, and promoting global stability. We welcome the focus on key areas of People, Planet, Prosperity, Digitalization, and Infrastructure, which are at the core of the development challenges of the Global South. Given rising external financing needs amidst declining Overseas Development Assistance and Foreign Direct Investments, we hope that the ongoing IDA21 replenishment discussions will result in a robust and impactful outcome, increasing support for LICs in real terms, supported by an expanded donor base. We call on donors to be ambitious, and to align their contributions with the scale of the challenges. It is also important to thoroughly consider the different levels of fragility before applying any adjustment to loan terms that may impact debt sustainability. While we welcome the proposed Global and Regional Opportunities Window (GROW), which aims to address regional and global challenges, such as adaptation, we call for an expanded focus on other issues that impact the Global South such as biodiversity, desertification, carbon and methane gas emissions from agricultural production, and rising sea level.

    11. Considering the need for significant resources, and the misalignment of shareholding structure, the upcoming 2025 Shareholding Review for IBRD and the International Finance Corporation, (IFC), is crucial. We call on shareholders to build consensus for a speedy and successful review in line with the Lima Shareholding Principles, resulting in the increase of the voice and representation of EMDEs and ensuring a more equitable balance of voting power to improve legitimacy and effectiveness. In addition, the review should propose specific options to address misalignment.

    12. We look forward to the implementation of the G20 Brazil Presidency MDB Roadmap Towards Bigger, Better, and more Effective MDBs, building on the mandate from G20 New Delhi Leaders Declaration, and based on the recommendations of the G20 Independent Experts Group. To further increase scale and impact, we call for deepening of engagement and cooperation between WBG and the MDBs with a view to operating as a system to address countries’ development priorities and needs, as well as global and regional challenges. We call for regular reviews of the alignment of MDBs resources and strategies. These reviews would lay a solid basis for MDB Boards’ consideration on if and when additional capital may be needed. In addition, to enhance private capital mobilization, we advocate for providing support aimed at removing regulatory bottlenecks to private investment, developing innovative risk-sharing and hedging instruments, including through local currency lending and domestic capital market reforms. To further maximize the impact of public investment, and its ability to boost growth, improve productivity, and reduce poverty, EMDEs should be supported with comprehensive policy reform programs to improve public investment efficiency, governance and fiscal administration, subject to the country’s specific circumstance.

    13. We commend the recent progress under the G20 Common Framework and the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable (GSDR), including establishing a common understanding of processes and practices. We call for a step up of the implementation of the G20 Common Framework in a predictable, timely, orderly, and coordinated manner and more meaningful debt relief. Additionally, we welcome the joint efforts of all stakeholders to enhance debt management and transparency and encourage private creditors to follow suit. We draw attention to the need for further reforms, especially with respect to early engagement with creditors and interaction with credit rating agencies. Ultimately, we urge for a comprehensive reform of the sovereign debt framework that addresses debt vulnerabilities in low and middle-income countries in an effective, comprehensive and systematic manner. We call for consideration of options – including the support of the IMF and the World Bank – to help countries facing short-term liquidity challenges whose debt is sustainable.

    14. The global community is falling short of attaining climate and development goals, and in providing the commensurate financial support to developing countries towards achieving them. The frequency, intensity, and scale of extreme weather events, particularly in developing countries, are increasing, necessitating urgent action. Recognizing the varying national circumstances, we call for accelerating climate action based on equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. Therefore, climate change strategies must incorporate the needs of EMDEs, and mitigation and adaptation actions should aim at ensuring accessibility to all types of energy, and energy security, bearing in mind sustainable development and efforts to eradicate poverty. Furthermore, MDBs and IFIs should support investment in the research and development of green technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We acknowledge the need to significantly scale up finance, and hence call for a concrete goal that is commensurate with the pressing challenges, and that is therefore greater than the $100 billion per year planned during the upcoming CoP29. We look forward to faster progress on the operationalization and capitalization of the Loss and Damage Fund. We reiterate our call for new and additional grant-based, highly concessional finance and non-debt instruments to support both middle- and low-income countries, especially as they transition in a just and equitable manner.

    15. Domestic Resource Mobilization is essential for sustainable development. We strongly support national efforts to prevent and combat illicit financial flows, corruption, money-laundering and tax evasion, as such efforts would increase domestic resources. We call for increased capacity building to support members, to improve their expertise in domestic resource mobilization. We acknowledge the work of the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development on tax base erosion and profit shifting, and welcome the progress made on the Two-Pillar Solution under the OECD Inclusive Framework. Additionally, we look forward to the forthcoming negotiation of the United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation and its two early protocols. We call for a constructive engagement as well as multilateral consensus to achieve lasting progress on this initiative. Finally, we commend the work of the Brazil G20 Presidency on taxation and inequality.

    16. Challenges to multilateralism are not abating. It is concerning that policymakers in some of the world’s largest economies continue to pursue protectionist or nationalist policies that are not in line with global integration on trade and development. We reaffirm our support for a rules-based, non-discriminatory, fair, open, inclusive, equitable, sustainable, and transparent, multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its We encourage countries to contribute to the strengthening of multilateralism through ongoing initiatives. These include the Bretton Woods Initiative, which seeks to develop a long-term perspective on the global economy and the roles of the IMF and World Bank, and the Fourth Conference on Financing for Development, a forum aimed at identifying obstacles and constraints to the achievement of the SDGs and supporting the reform of the international financial architecture. We call for enhanced collaboration and cooperation among multilateral institutions to ensure a coherent and collaborative approach towards multilateralism.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER:

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Fetterman, Deluzio Secure $87 Million to Build New Manufacturing Facility in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Create Almost 900 Jobs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Pennsylvania Bob Casey
    Mainspring Energy manufactures linear generators that power hospitals, supermarkets, data centers, and more across the Nation
    New plant will expand generator production, enhance American global competitiveness, create 891 jobs in Coraopolis
    Casey, Fetterman, and Deluzio pushed for the Accelerating Linear Generator Production for Mainspring Energy project
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Congressman Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17) delivered $87,070,493 in federal funding for Mainspring Energy (MSE), a manufacturer of linear generators, to build a new, state-of-the art manufacturing facility that will support new 891 jobs in Coraopolis. Funding comes from the Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grants Program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
    “This is a game-changing investment for Coraopolis and Southwestern Pennsylvania. With this funding, Mainstream Energy will create good-paying and high-skilled manufacturing jobs and continue Southwestern Pennsylvania’s legacy as an energy leader on the forefront of cutting-edge technology. Pennsylvania workers are the best in the world and I will keep fighting for good paying manufacturing and construction jobs across our Commonwealth,” said Senator Casey.
    “Western Pennsylvania has always been America’s industrial backbone and the Department of Energy’s investment in Mainspring Energy carries that legacy forward. This move propels us toward a carbon-pollution-free future while keeping our economy strong, competitive, and union-built,” said Senator Fetterman. “As lifelong Pennsylvanians, Senator Casey, Congressman Deluzio, and I understand and honor our state’s proud history of hard work and innovation. We pushed for this investment because it puts Western Pennsylvania back on the map as a leader in cutting-edge manufacturing.”
    “I am thrilled to announce that Coraopolis’ own Mainspring Energy Inc. is receiving more than $87 million in federal dollars to boost its manufacturing of low-carbon generators and create hundreds of full-time and construction jobs in the process,” said Congressman Deluzio. “This is a powerful example of how when we make more stuff here, we can create manufacturing and construction jobs and onshore our supply chains, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions to help us meet our climate goals. I am proud to support this project and look forward to monitoring its progress and impact on the people and economy in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District.”  
    The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)’s Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grants program, which enables manufacturers build new or retrofit existing manufacturing and industrial facilities in communities where coal mines or coal power plants have closed. Senators Casey and Fetterman and Congressman Deluzio urged DOE secretary Jennifer Granholm to support MSE’s project in June 2024. In their letter, the Members highlighted how the new facility would increase domestic manufacturing, boost American competitiveness in the clean energy sector, generate hundreds of good-paying jobs for Pennsylvanians, and carry on the Commonwealth’s proud legacy as an energy state. 
    Mainspring Energy (MSE), in partnership with construction firm Al. Neyer, will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Coraopolis to produce 1,000 linear generators annually that will provide clean and reliable power to critical institutions across the Nation including hospitals, businesses, and data centers. The plant will localize the manufacturing supply chain and enhance American global competitiveness in the clean energy sector. Additionally, the project will create 291 construction-related jobs and 600 operations jobs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Helps US Forest Service Go Green After 2024 Lake Fire

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL Researcher Bonnie Powell walks through the Smith River Complex Fire firecamp in September 2023. Photo by Bonnie Powell, NREL

    What started as a small vegetation fire in Santa Barbara County in July quickly became one of the biggest wildfires of California’s 2024 fire season.

    Over the first five days alone, the 2024 Lake Fire grew to over 28,000 acres and prompted evacuations of over 2,000 people. The fire would eventually consume 38,664 acres and, even with more than 3,500 firefighting personnel, took over a month of hard, dangerous work to contain. The 2024 Lake Fire was not an anomaly: Even with its massive size, it was only one of the thousands of wildfires in California this year.

    When a wildfire threatens communities, wildland firefighters from all over the United States come together to mitigate its impact on ecosystems and prevent it from approaching inhabited areas. This means that much of the staging and preparation made by wildland firefighters often happens in remote areas with limited access to resources and supplies needed to sustain thousands of trained personnel. Although logistically challenging, deploying wildland firefighter basecamps closer to the fire, and further away from urban areas, also allows firefighters to more easily fight wildfires at their source.

    Office trailers at the Diamond Complex Fire camp use rooftop solar panels to generate electricity for its operations in September 2024. Photo from Samuel Wu, USFS

    One of the biggest challenges of supplying isolated wildland firefighter camps has always centered around fuel. Until recently, gasoline- and diesel-powered generators have been the go-to solution for providing electricity to much-needed catering, showering, handwashing, and coordination facilities. In addition, logistics staff planning firefighting efforts operate out of trailers or yurts that must have power for laptops, monitors, printers, HVAC systems, lights, and more.

    Generators have been an effective way to ensure availability of power but are noisy, require regular refueling, and produce high levels of toxic emissions over time. The costs can add up as well, and it is estimated that in one year, U.S. Forest Service firefighting efforts use approximately $8 million or 2,000,000 gallons of diesel fuel—just to run generators in fire camps—enough to power more than 4,000 passenger cars for a year. Additionally, as digital technology becomes essential to improving the effectiveness of wildland firefighting, electricity demands continue to grow, and new solutions are needed to ensure uninterrupted energy generation in remote areas.

    A solar-powered light tower was deployed at the McClellan Fire in California in 2014. Photo from Denise Kusnir, USFS

    The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has a long-running partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and its Greening Fire Team (GFT)—a group of interagency employees dedicated to promoting sustainable firefighting operations and achieving net-zero environmental impact on all large fire incidents by 2030—with the aim to integrate more renewable energy methods and infrastructure into the national wildfire mitigation and control strategy. Over the last few years, this partnership included close collaboration with the USFS National Technology and Development Program (NTDP), a problem-solving organization that seeks and implements solutions to problems and technical challenges faced by agency employees and partners.

    “Our work with NREL is resulting in excellent data collection of equipment loads and power usage analyses with the goal of making fire camps more efficient without compromising their mission or safety,” said Samuel Wu, national Greening Fire Team cochair and project manager at the NTDP. “NREL engineers have become critical team members for the NTDP project and for the wider scope of work pursued within the GFT.”

    When NREL first began working with USFS over 20 years ago, researchers identified ways to improve the operational efficiency of fire camps, including pinpointing means to reduce energy use, water use, and waste generation. The laboratory and USFS share a vision of sustainability, and they collaborated on creating systems and plans to expand those practices—an initiative that was well received by staff and wildfire-fighting crews on the front lines of some of the most destructive fires in the United States.

    NREL found that many fire camps had some renewable solar-powered solutions, but these were often limited in their utility and procured by individuals in limited quantities. By working together, multiple potential opportunities for improvement were identified and, over the last nine years, USFS developed the infrastructure needed to create systemic access to sustainable camp practices, including recycling, hardware adoption, and diversification of energy sources.

    A hybrid solar light-and-power trailer was deployed in 2022 at the Black Fire in New Mexico. Photo from Margie Guzman, USFS

    Expertise from NREL helped make the adoption of renewable energy infrastructure within fire camps a systematic process, with more effective guidance and management systems becoming available to administrators and fireteam leaders. One of the most recent examples is the adoption and installation of solar light towers and high-efficiency lighting to replace traditional diesel-powered lights. When practical, wildfire camp managers can request solar light towers, or hybrid towers with back-up diesel generators, to provide area lighting that reduces fuel usage for these assets by up to 100%, reducing the overall running costs by as much as 30%.

    During the recent Lake Fire, NREL and the GFT successfully piloted several renewable energy solutions that put their ideas into practice. By integrating solar power and battery energy storage systems into fire camp operations, camp leaders were able to more efficiently power office trailers, light towers, and toilets and bring critical command and control systems online quickly. New types of solar panels allowed the Lake Fire basecamp to be more energy independent, with solar cells performing well even in smoky conditions. Additional access to batteries also ensured long runtimes, to supplement any drops in supply.

    A solar trailer was tested by the USFS National Technology and Development Program during its 2024 Industry Week in San Dimas, California. Photo from Elmer Balceta, USFS

    NREL and the USFS believe that sustainable methods in wildland firefighting can help improve the effectiveness of firefighting practices while lowering the human footprint in remote wilderness areas. Fire camps can strain the resources of nearby communities by using local water supplies and producing large amounts of trash, in addition to creating unnecessary pollution and ecological degradation from diesel-powered generators that can be alleviated with sustainable practices and renewable energy. Together with USFS and the GFT, NREL is advancing the integration of renewable energy methods into fire camps and making new types of energy generation accessible to wildland firefighters across the nation.

    “It’s incredible what can be accomplished when we pair a deep understanding of complex issues in wildland fire operations with the expertise and perspective of NREL staff,” Wu said. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with NREL and other partners as we strive to reduce waste and advance sustainability in fire incident operations.”

    Learn more about the Forest Service’s Greening Fire Team, the NTDP, and how organizations can partner with NREL.

    Tags: Solar,Energy Storage,Energy Security and Resilience,Partnerships,State Local Tribal

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Explores How Corporate Procurement Can Advance Renewable Energy Deployment

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Clean Energy Buyers Provide Price Certainty Needed for Renewable Energy Investments

    Through a new partnership, an NREL team is investigating the role of corporate investments in accelerating clean energy development. Photo from Getty Images

    The transition to a decarbonized power system requires significant investments in clean energy generation, transmission, and storage. However, securing that investment capital is a key challenge.

    For example, many power systems models focus solely on costs and overlook a critical factor: risk exposure to investors. If unaccounted for, this could ultimately lead to an overestimate of the actual deployment of renewable energy needed in our power system.

    Corporate investors are increasingly purchasing renewable electricity in the “voluntary market,” providing the price stability needed for initial project investments. Image by NREL

    Alongside compliance buyers such as utilities, corporate investors—known as “offtakers”—are increasingly buying the electricity from renewables directly as part of a “voluntary market,” offering the type of price certainty to renewables projects that is needed for their initial capital investment.

    This rapidly growing role of corporates in renewables procurement brings new research questions, including how voluntary market activity drives renewables deployment and how a diversity of voluntary market approaches (such as hourly matching and emissions matching) impacts power systems operations.

    To address these research gaps, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is partnering with Meta, one of the largest corporate buyers of renewable energy globally. Together, NREL and Meta are collaborating on a series of reports that will allow greater insight into corporate renewables procurement and the enabling conditions for clean energy investment.

    In a first research project, NREL—in collaboration with research consultancy Aquilo Energy GmbH—will investigate the common traits of corporate buyers and their future role in renewables procurement.

    “We hope to inform corporate buyers and regulators about the characteristics of renewables procurement and its impacts in today’s power markets,” research partner Philipp Beiter from Aquilo Energy GmbH said. “As corporations’ roles as offtakers grows, a greater body of research can explore their exact role in mitigating power price risks and the interaction of corporations’ long-term contracts with other power market features.”

    Why Corporate Offtake Matters

    NREL has led research on U.S. corporate procurement with its annually published market report Status and Trends in the U.S. Voluntary Green Power Market. Additionally, a 2023 perspectives article in Nature Energy showed that long-term contracts (so called “contracts for difference”) established between power producers and offtakers are necessary for renewables financing because they offer a level of price stability that is largely absent in wholesale electricity markets. Rather than constituting a subsidy, these long-term contracts—whether offered by utilities, governments, or corporations—serve the purpose of risk management and are becoming lasting and fundamental market features.

    The 2023 perspectives article was meant to stimulate a timely discussion about the impact of greater long-term contracts diffusion on electricity market mechanisms and risk allocation, which this research effort between Meta and NREL builds upon.

    “De-risking renewable generation revenue is critical for securing financing for the construction of renewable projects,” said Jenny Heeter, NREL’s principal investigator on the project. “We hope to explore how corporations manage these risks and whether that could limit future renewable energy deployment.”

    Through this work, the NREL researchers aim to explain that even when renewable energy costs are competitive with fossil fuels, long-term offtake agreements are typically still needed for their deployment. Recognizing this dynamic is crucial for policy and power systems planning, which often overstates renewable energy demand and underappreciates the importance of corporate procurement in driving renewable energy deployment.

    This research is funded by Meta Inc., one of the world’s largest renewable energy buyers. Since 2020, Meta has matched 100% of its electricity use with renewable energy.

    Read more about NREL’s energy analysis research, and subscribe to NREL’s energy analysis emails to receive updates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Coauthors U.S. Department of Energy Blueprint to Decarbonize the Buildings Sector

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    A Science-Backed Strategy To Aggressively Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emission by 2050

    NREL buildings research supports Decarbonizing the U.S. Economy by 2050: A National Blueprint for the Buildings Sector, which outlines how the sector can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050. Photo from Getty Images

    The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released a Blueprint to aggressively reduce buildings sector greenhouse gas emissions while delivering equity, affordability, and resilience benefits to communities.

    Decarbonizing the U.S. Economy by 2050: A National Blueprint for the Buildings Sector reflects the central role that buildings will play in achieving economy-wide climate goals while delivering cost savings, healthier environments, and high-quality jobs. Buildings account for more than one-third of domestic carbon emissions and 75% of all electricity used in the United States. The Blueprint outlines how the sector can achieve ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050.

    Eric Wilson, senior research engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is on a detail assignment supporting DOE’s deputy assistant secretary for buildings and industry and served as a lead author for the blueprint.

    “Buildings are where we live, work, learn, and gather as communities,” Wilson said. “We are facing an enormous opportunity to impact people across the country with a concerted effort. Working together toward common goals will accelerate building upgrades and create healthier and more secure communities.”

    To achieve the crosscutting goals, the Blueprint outlines four strategic objectives with specific performance targets that enable overall emission reductions:

    • Increase building energy efficiency
    • Accelerate on-site emissions reductions
    • Transform the grid edge
    • Minimize embodied life-cycle emissions.

    Increase building energy efficiency

    Reduce on-site energy use intensity in buildings 35% by 2035 and 50% by 2050 vs. 2005.

    Accelerate on-site emissions reductions

    Reduce on-site greenhouse gas emissions in buildings 25% by 2035 and 75% by 2050 vs. 2005.

    Transform the grid edge

    Reduce electrical infrastructure costs by tripling demand flexibility potential by 2050 vs 2020.

    Minimize embodied life cycle emissions

    Reduce embodied emissions from building materials and construction 90% by 2050 vs 2005.

    Each objective has specific performance targets and market, policy, and technology milestones to reach by 2035 and 2050.

    “Building upgrades have the potential to increase high-quality jobs, economic security, equity, health, and community resilience,” said Carolyn Snyder, deputy assistant secretary for buildings and industry at DOE. “Our national labs are vital partners in helping define strategic focus and in carrying out complex R&D.”

    NREL Is Supporting Blueprint Objectives

    NREL is focused on transforming the buildings in communities across the country and around the world into more efficient, affordable, healthy, and resilient places. More than 150 cutting-edge building science and technologies projects at NREL are collectively supporting the overall goal of equitably enabling net-zero emissions objectives.

    Increasing Building Energy Efficiency

    The blueprint highlights the critical role of state, local, and Tribal governments in achieving our national objectives and how federal support can bolster these efforts. Communities across the United States are adopting policies to increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions from the built environment. These climate action plans and emission reduction goals need to be rooted in the historical context of the building stock, including energy data, building asset data, and socio-environmental contexts to ensure buildings meet energy and emission targets, while benefiting the people who live in them. And, to achieve measurable sustainability goals, robust and cohesive building data management is imperative.

    For example, when a city passes a building performance standard or disclosure ordinance to track energy or greenhouse gas emissions, a covered buildings list is created for a city manager to track buildings over the performance standard’s compliance period―typically five years. NREL and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed the covered building list workflow and Standard Energy Efficiency Data Platform™ (SEED) to help:

    • Identify buildings in a jurisdiction and identify which buildings are on which tax parcels
    • Explore which buildings would be covered based on property type or gross floor area
    • Identify trends across and within building data characteristics and meters and automatically merge identical buildings defined by a unique identifier
    • Track building performance over multiple years
    • Visualize progress to climate action plan goals for individual buildings and the entire portfolio.

    Developed hand in hand with cities to ensure it would meet the needs of its users, the SEED Platform allows disparate datasets to be imported, merged, matched, and linked across multiple years of data imports. This makes for easier tracking of buildings over time and enables integrated timeline views of property changes. Reporting abilities within the platform also help visualize progress on policies and help property owners with compliance or reporting requirements.

    “We’ve been able to partner with organizations to deploy this technology and help drive strategic investments in energy efficiency and beneficial electrification on the local level,” said Nicholas Long, senior building researcher and software engineer in NREL’s Building Technologies and Science Center. “It’s really encouraging to see DOE investments leveraged to make this technology available at scale and help a variety of jurisdictions achieve ambitious energy goals in ways that make sense for them.”

    SEED allows cities to launch carbon reduction programs quickly and with a limited budget. Not only is the SEED Platform free, but it can also be easily integrated with the other software tools cities use to run their governments. Cities, for example, have linked SEED to Salesforce, a popular customer-relations management tool, so automated emails can be sent to building owners regarding compliance status.

    Today, SEED and SEED-based spinoffs are used in 28 jurisdictions across the United States to reduce the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of their building stock, a major step toward a zero-emissions economy that earned NREL an R&D 100 Award in 2022.

    Accelerating On-Site Emission Reductions

    Space heating accounts for approximately 70% of energy-related on-site emissions in commercial buildings across the United States, and 50% of commercial floor space is conditioned with packaged rooftop units (RTUs).

    Heat pump RTUs can lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs, but there is room to increase deployment as only 15% of commercial buildings in the United States currently have heat pumps. In cold climates, adoption has been even lower due to the current technology available on the market.

    NREL recently co-led the launch of DOE’s Commercial Building Heat Pump Accelerator. The initiative will work with stakeholders—from commercial building owners and operators to manufacturers—to accelerate the development and adoption of heat pump RTUs for integrated energy efficiency and electrification of buildings.

    “In order to achieve energy-related goals, we know new technologies are needed, specific to commercial buildings in cold climates,” said Kelsea Dombrovski, community energy researcher in NREL’s Building Technologies and Science Center. “The Commercial Building Heat Pump Accelerator will look at the whole market to understand challenges from building owners, installers, utilities, manufacturers, and more to make a bigger impact.”

    The accelerator consists of two parts: a campaign and a challenge. The campaign provides building owners and operators with resources and guidance to deploy heat pump technology, supporting both site-level and portfolio-level installations. The challenge asks manufacturers to develop new emissions-reducing heat pump RTUs that meet an advanced technology specification developed by DOE to help organizations meet their energy efficiency needs and decarbonization objectives. Through the challenge, manufacturers will partner with DOE and the national laboratories to create prototypes, test the performance and durability of the products, and lead field validations with partners.

    NREL will leverage its industry-leading modeling tools, such as ComStock™, to provide technical support on heat pump performance and impacts. The NREL team will also provide input on additional resources, connections to manufacturers and commercial building owners, and technical insight on the cutting-edge specifications for manufacturers.

    “Manufacturers are looking for clear direction as to what the market wants but also what will get us to climate goals in a way that is affordable and meets other constraints, such as size, weight, materials, and compatibility,” Dombrovski added. “It’s a complex issue that the combined efforts of this accelerator will help solve.”

    Transforming the Grid Edge

    Transitioning to a clean energy future will require the modernization of the electrical grid to accommodate rapidly changing load patterns and new sources of renewable energy. DOE is aiming to transform the grid edge where energy efficiency, clean-energy-ready buildings, electric vehicle charging, and on-site renewable energy generation and storage connect to the power grid. The goal is to shrink the scale of electrical infrastructure required for a 100% clean electricity system by tripling demand flexibility potential by 2050.

    A vital step in the transformation is planning future scenarios. Integrated analysis tools are key for stakeholders to better understand what will happen in certain situations and be able to best optimize investments in the grid edge. NREL is improving forecasting analysis that incorporates increased building electrification, electric vehicle (EV) adoption, and deployment of distributed energy resources (DERs) with distribution grid infrastructure improvements.

    “It’s an exciting time for clean energy. We’re installing more clean energy technologies in our buildings and getting more EVs on the road,” said Craig Simmons, senior research engineer in NREL’s Building Technologies and Science Center. “But the transition also brings complexities such as increased electric demand, varying energy production versus use, and fluctuating customer costs. This energy transition will require a better coordination of devices and systems that interact at the grid edge.”

    Transformation of the grid edge requires highly granular analytical capabilities that can assess scenarios across a wide range of applications and technologies on both sides of the grid edge, including demand-side equipment and distribution infrastructure. This high level of detail is critical because every distribution feeder is unique and contains specific blends of buildings, EV potential, DERs, and distribution infrastructure.

    NREL has a variety of modeling tools that support commercial and residential buildings, EV charging equipment and patterns, renewable energy generation, battery energy storage systems, thermal and district energy networks, and electric grid distribution infrastructure. Many of the NREL tools can be used in coordinated simulations that allow for highly complex bottom-up scenario forecasting analysis.

    This strategy supports detailed cost-benefit analysis across assets on either side of the grid edge to support informed decisions for innovative value-add scenarios. Because NREL’s tools are open-source, all enhancements directly benefit the forecasting capabilities of any group who will need similar grid edge solutions to the increasing use of renewable generation. The tools also enable neighborhood-level scenario analysis that is essential to improve load management at the grid edge.

    “Along with accuracy of analysis, this level of granularity is also an essential component when considering how to invest equitably in grid edge solutions and infrastructure,” Simmons added. “Disparities in infrastructure investment happen at the neighborhood and home level. Aggregating or averaging metrics around homeowner characteristics tend to smooth over the sharp correlations that are seen in more granular analysis.”

    Minimizing Embodied Life-Cycle Emissions

    Carbon emissions accounted for outside of the operation phase of a building’s life cycles are “embodied” in building materials and equipment, including from resource extraction, manufacturing, transportation, construction, replacement/renovation, reuse, demolition, and material recycling or disposal. New building construction is responsible for an estimated 3% to 7% of total annual emissions in the United States.

    Among numerous projects aiming to reduce embodied emissions from building materials and construction, NREL is developing end-of-life embodied-carbon data for high-impact building materials. Researchers working on the Building Re-X project through REMADE are developing a set of open-access databases for construction materials to create open-access Building Re-X models that enable end-of-life considerations to be incorporated into building design and materials selection. Re-X encompasses the reuse, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing, and/or repurposing of materials.

    “Currently, construction sector professionals and researchers cannot objectively evaluate the benefits of various Re-X strategies (reuse/recycle) of construction materials, and most construction and demolition debris goes to landfills,” stated Michael Deru, manager of the Advanced Buildings Equipment Research Group at NREL. “There is a need for documented end-of-life reuse scenarios and data for building materials.”

    NREL is not stopping at creating a database. The project will continue to develop end-of-life methodologies and communicate this information with industry leaders, then integrate this data with top design tools. This project anticipates achieving up to a 7% increase in the annual quantity of Re-X material, 120% increase in annual embodied energy efficiency, and 12% reduction in associated greenhouse gas emissions per year.

    Learn more about building technologies research at NREL.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casten Leads Bipartisan Effort to Improve Investment Tax Credit for Geothermal Heat Pumps

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

    October 22, 2024

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) led a bipartisan group of lawmakers in urging Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to revise the proposed rule for an investment tax credit (ITC) to ensure Americans can benefit from the energy and cost savings provided by geothermal heat pump (GHP) technology.

    “The NPRM [Notice of Proposed Rulemaking] prevents multiple taxpayers that own different components of a GHP that are functionally interdependent from claiming a tax credit under the ITC. We believe this proposed rule misapplies congressional intent and creates difficulties for taxpayers in their ability to benefit from the credit,” the lawmakers wrote. “To ensure that Americans can appropriately benefit from the energy and cost savings provided by GHP systems, Treasury should modify the proposed rule to ensure that different taxpayers who own separate, functionally independent components of a GHP system are eligible to claim the ITC for the equipment they own.”

    GHP systems are among the most efficient ways to heat and cool buildings, with enormous potential to both lower energy bills and reduce carbon emissions. 

    In addition to Rep. Casten, the letter was signed by Reps. Larry Bucshon, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Nikki Budzinski, Lori Trahan, Betty McCollum, Mike Quigley, Becca Balint, Joseph Morelle, Paul Tonko, Chellie Pingree, and Rosa DeLauro.

    A copy of the letter can be found here, and text of the letter can be found below.

    Dear Secretary Yellen:

    We write in response to the Treasury Department’s (“Treasury”) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Reg- 132569-17 (“NPRM”) for the investment tax credit (“ITC”) under Section 48 of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended (“Code”) and underscore the impact the regulation would have on the expanded deployment of geothermal heat pump (“GHP”) system technology. In particular, the NPRM prevents multiple taxpayers that own different components of a GHP that are functionally interdependent from claiming a tax credit under the ITC. We believe this proposed rule misapplies congressional intent and creates difficulties for taxpayers in their ability to benefit from the credit.

    Correcting the proposed regulation in the final rule is critical for home-based and community scale GHP systems which, by design, typically involve multiple owners. GHP networks can serve a diverse array of customer buildings while those customers own and maintain their own GHP equipment within the building.

    GHP systems are among the most efficient ways to heat and cool buildings and GHP deployment holds enormous potential to lower energy bills for American families and businesses and reduce emissions from heating and cooling homes, schools, and businesses. Due to their reliable performance during temperature extremes, GHP systems provide households with certainty in their energy bills and insulate consumers from peak energy price shocks due to extreme weather events.

    A December 2023 report from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory confirms that GHPs are a ready-made strategy for decarbonizing buildings, reducing the need for new electricity generation and transmission infrastructure, and bringing energy savings to Americans nationwide. According to DOE’s report, broad adoption of GHPs would result in cumulative savings to the U.S. economy of more than $1 trillion by 2050, eliminating the need for 24,500 miles of transmission lines, creating a 13 percent decrease in the amount of required electricity generation, and a reducing CO2 emission by 7,351 million metric tons.

    As drafted, the NPRM prevents multiple taxpayers who own different components of a GHP that are functionally interdependent from claiming a tax credit under the ITC. This is based on Treasury’s interpretation that the ground loop and the GHP units are functionally interdependent yet distinct components of the same system (unless the two taxpayers share more than 50 percent overlapping ownership of the equipment). This interpretation contravenes the plain text of Section 48, which permits the owner of energy property to claim the ITC when the original use of that energy property began with such owner. With the enactment of the Inflation Reduction Act, Congress gave much overdue recognition to GHP systems by granting the technology the same credit as the other ITC-eligible technologies.

    To ensure that Americans can appropriately benefit from the energy and cost savings provided by GHP systems, Treasury should modify the proposed rule to ensure that different taxpayers who own separate, functionally independent components of a GHP system are eligible to claim the ITC for the equipment they own.

    The proposed rule also creates a new trap for taxpayers who may believe they own an entire unit of energy property and are eligible for the ITC but are later deemed ineligible due to a finding by the IRS. This makes the ITC less flexible and would pose an increased risk for taxpayers, likely disincentivizing private sector investments in GHP and other ITC-eligible projects. Additionally, the final rule should allow individual items of energy property to qualify for the ITC even when they are placed into service after other related energy property. This level of flexibility will further incentivize the widespread investment in and adoption of GHP systems.

    To ensure the maximum deployment of GHP systems, we urge Treasury to incorporate the above changes in any final rule on the Section 48 ITC tax credit issued by the agency.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia – B10-0129/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    to wind up the debate on the statement by the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

    B10‑0129/2024

    European Parliament resolution on the situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia

    (2024/2890(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to it previous resolutions on Armenia and Azerbaijan,

    – having regard to the Charter of the United Nations and to the principles of international law,

    – having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,

    – having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR),

    – having regard to the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to the European Neighbourhood Policy and to the Eastern Partnership,

    – having regard to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part[1],

    – having regard to the Comprehensive and enhanced Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part[2],

    – having regard to the EU Country Roadmap for Engagement with Civil Society in Armenia for the period 2021-2027,

    – having regard to the Memorandum of Understanding on a Strategic Partnership in the Field of Energy signed between the EU and Azerbaijan on 18 July 2022,

    – having regard to the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, the Charter of Paris for a New Europe, and the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions,

    – having regard to the joint statement of 7 December 2023 of the Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan,

    – having regard to the report of 10 May 2024 of the UN Committee against Torture on Azerbaijan,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas a lasting and comprehensive peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan is essential for the security, stability and prosperity of the South Caucasus region;

    B. whereas Azerbaijan’s aggression against Nagorno-Karabakh has resulted in significant human suffering, and Azerbaijani troops have committed ethnic cleansing and violence against the Armenian inhabitants of the region;

    C. whereas, in the context of building confidence between the two countries, an agreement had been reached for the Republic of Armenia to support the Republic of Azerbaijan’s bid to host the 29th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by withdrawing its own candidacy; whereas this agreement provided for the Republic of Azerbaijan to release 32 Armenian military servicemen and the Republic of Armenia to release 2 Azerbaijani military servicemen;

    D. whereas 23 prisoners of war are still being held captive in Azerbaijan charged with spurious crimes and without adequate legal representation;

    E. whereas EU-Azerbaijan relations are based on the EU-Azerbaijan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement in force since 1999;

    F. whereas it has become clear that the gas deal signed between the Commission and Azerbaijan has given the Azerbaijani Government carte blanche to do as it pleases, knowing that the EU’s energy security is dependent on its will;

    G. whereas the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC, COP29, will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 11 to 22 November 2024;

    H. whereas progress has been made in recent years towards closer cooperation between the EU and Armenia, including in areas such as trade, development and political dialogue; whereas the European Union is Armenia’s second largest trading partner and its largest development cooperation donor;

    I. whereas Azerbaijan’s record in terms of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is still very negative and needs to be improved before the EU further deepens its political and energy partnership with the country;

    J. whereas the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, Mary Lawlor, stated on 15 August 2024 that in recent months she had witnessed an alarming wave of arrests and criminal cases against human rights defenders and journalists in Azerbaijan; whereas this statement concerns, among others, Anar Mammadli, Chair of the Election Monitoring and Democracy Studies Center, and Ulvi Hasanli, Sevinj Abbasova, Nargiz Absalamova and Elnara Gasimova, Director, Editor-in-chief and journalists respectively of Abzas Media, an outlet dedicated to human rights issues and corruption investigations;

    K. whereas Gubad Ibadoghlu, a political economist and opposition figure, was arrested by the Azerbaijani authorities in July 2023 and remained in detention until 22 April 2024, when he was transferred to house arrest; whereas his health has deteriorated significantly since his arrest, as a result of torture, inhumane detention conditions and refusal of adequate medical care, thus endangering his life;

    L. whereas Ilhamiz Guliyev, a human rights defender, was arbitrarily arrested on 4 December 2023 on dubious accusations of drug trafficking after his whistleblowing testimony about police tampering with evidence against government critics; whereas he is facing up to 12 years in prison;

    M. whereas the human rights of LGBTIQ people in Armenia and Azerbaijan are at best disregarded and at worst actively fought against by the government and state institutions; whereas, according to the 2024 Rainbow Map and Index of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association Europe, Azerbaijan scored 2 % in terms of its legal and policy practices; whereas this makes Azerbaijan the lowest-ranked of all the countries assessed;

    N. whereas, in the International Court of Justice order of 7 December 2021, which ordered Azerbaijan to prevent and punish acts of vandalism and desecration against Armenian cultural heritage, serious allegations were made regarding the involvement of the Azerbaijani authorities in the destruction of cemeteries, churches and historical monuments in Nagorno-Karabakh; whereas the building of the National Assembly of Nagorno-Karabakh was demolished by Azerbaijan on 3 March 2024;

    O. whereas the EU’s position, as expressed in relevant resolutions, is clear in rejecting ‘any attempt to facilitate or assist in any way the international recognition of the secessionist entity in occupied Cyprus, including in relation to its alleged acceptance as an observer in the Organization of Turkic States (OTS)’; whereas Azerbaijan hosted the Informal Summit of the Heads of State of the OTS on 5-6 July 2024;

    1. Underlines the importance of peace, stability and security in the South Caucasus for the region, for the EU and for the world; highlights that a lasting and comprehensive peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan is essential for the security, stability and prosperity of the South Caucasus region;

    2. Calls upon the international community to support the peace process by providing diplomatic and economic assistance, by respecting and recognising the democratic will of the refugees of Nagorno-Karabakh and by encouraging all parties to fulfil their commitments under international law;

    3. Reaffirms its commitment to the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, the Charter of Paris for a New Europe and United Nations Security Council resolutions, and calls for the full implementation of these principles in the resolution of the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia;

    4. Deplores the forced displacement of 100 000 ethnic Armenians, resulting in ethnic cleansing of the indigenous Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan;

    5. Takes note of the agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia to release 32 Armenian and 2 Azerbaijani military servicemen; calls for the release of the remaining 23 Armenian prisoners of war; considers that such actions can have a positive influence on normalising relations and concluding a peace treaty;

    6. Urges the Governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan to take steps to build trust and confidence between their communities, including by promoting people-to-people exchanges and educational programmes that foster reconciliation and understanding;

    7. Strongly denounces the fact that the President of the Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has characterised Azerbaijan as a ‘trustworthy energy supplier’; reiterates its call for the Commission to immediately suspend the Memorandum of Understanding on a Strategic Partnership in the Field of Energy between the EU and Azerbaijan;

    8. Regrets statements from President Aliyev regarding the expansion of gas production to cover the increasing demand, including from European markets; considers that the acceleration of the Green Transition by the EU, while protecting the most vulnerable sections of society, can have the added benefit of diversifying its energy mix;

    9. Expresses concern about the human rights situation in Azerbaijan; urges Azerbaijan to ensure due process and fair trials and to immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners, human rights defenders and journalists who have been unfairly detained; stresses that any partnership agreements should be contingent upon respect for the rule of law and human rights;

    10. Calls on the Azerbaijani authorities to strengthen the enforcement of labour laws and ensure that all workers, including migrant workers, are afforded their basic rights, including the right to fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to form and join trade unions without fear of retaliation; calls on the Azerbaijani Government to improve transparency in labour practices and to implement concrete measures to prevent and address labour abuses, including child labour;

    11. Believes that the continued human rights abuses in Azerbaijan are incompatible with hosting COP29; further believes that Azerbaijan’s goal of increasing its gas production is totally incompatible with the global objective of phasing out fossil fuels set by the Parties to the UNFCCC; calls on the international community to use this opportunity to push Azerbaijan to take immediate and tangible action to address its human rights situation;

    12. Deplores the destruction of Armenian cultural, religious and historical heritage since the beginning of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, notably the razing to the ground of the building of the National Assembly of Nagorno-Karabakh;

    13. Reiterates that Azerbaijan must adhere to the principle of good neighbourly relations and respect international law, which includes the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states;

    14. Rejects any attempt to facilitate or assist in any way the international recognition of the secessionist entity in occupied Cyprus, including in relation to its alleged acceptance as an observer in the Organization of Turkic States; encourages Azerbaijan to duly uphold respect for the principles of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states; deplores that Azerbaijan has ratified the amended Statute of the Organization of Turkic States, which would put into effect the decision to grant the secessionist entity observer status;

    15. Takes note of the UN Committee against Torture’s report of 10 May 2024 on Azerbaijan; calls for further action by the Azerbaijani authorities on respecting human rights, especially in the areas of: harassment of human rights defenders and journalists; hate crimes, hate speech and discrimination; the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons; and gender-based and domestic violence;

    16. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, and the Governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –