NewzIntel.com

Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran calls on UN to recognize US, Israel as initiators of ‘aggressors’

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

    Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Sunday called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to recognize Israel and the United States as the initiators of the “aggression” against Iran.

    In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and UNSC President Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Araghchi urged the Council to fulfill its responsibility in maintaining international peace and security, according to the official IRNA news agency.

    He accused Israel of deliberately targeting residential buildings, civilians, and civilian infrastructure, describing the attacks as a “flagrant breach” of the UN Charter and a “blatant violation” of international law.

    Araghchi said Israel and the United States had also targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities — safeguarded by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) — in “grave violation of the UN Charter, the Non-Proliferation Treaty, as well as the IAEA’s instruments and resolutions.”

    The Iranian foreign minister emphasized that the UNSC should hold the “aggressors” accountable and act to prevent the recurrence of such “crimes.”

    On June 13, Israel launched major airstrikes on several areas in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing senior commanders, nuclear scientists, and numerous civilians. Iran responded with multiple waves of missile and drone attacks on Israel.

    On June 22, U.S. forces bombed three Iranian nuclear facilities. In retaliation, Iran struck the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

    After 12 days of fighting, a ceasefire between Iran and Israel was reached on Tuesday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Critical minerals don’t belong in landfills – microwave tech offers a cleaner way to reclaim them from e-waste

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Terence Musho, Associate Professor of Engineering, West Virginia University

    Broken electronics still contain valuable critical minerals. Beeldbewerking/iStock/Getty Images Plus

    When the computer or phone you’re using right now blinks its last blink and you drop it off for recycling, do you know what happens?

    At the recycling center, powerful magnets will pull out steel. Spinning drums will toss aluminum into bins. Copper wires will get neatly bundled up for resale. But as the conveyor belt keeps rolling, tiny specks of valuable, lesser-known materials such as gallium, indium and tantalum will be left behind.

    Those tiny specks are critical materials. They’re essential for building new technology, and they’re in short supply in the U.S. They could be reused, but there’s a problem: Current recycling methods make recovering critical minerals from e-waste too costly or hazardous, so many recyclers simply skip them.

    Sadly, most of these hard-to-recycle materials end up buried in landfills or get mixed into products like cement. But it doesn’t have to be this way. New technology is starting to make a difference.

    A treasure trove of critical materials is often overlooked in e-waste, including gallium in LEDs, indium in LCDs, and tantalum in surface mount capacitors.
    Ansan Pokharel/West Virginia University, CC BY

    As demand for these critical materials keeps growing, discarded electronics can become valuable resources. My colleagues and I at West Virginia University are developing a new technology to change how we recycle. Instead of using toxic chemicals, our approach uses electricity, making it safer, cleaner and more affordable to recover critical materials from electronics.

    How much e-waste are we talking about?

    Americans generated about 2.7 million tons of electronic waste in 2018, according to the latest federal data. Including uncounted electronics, a survey by the United Nations suggests that the U.S. recycles only about 15% of its total e-waste.

    Even worse, nearly half the electronics that people in Northern America sent to recycling centers end up shipped overseas. They often land in scrapyards, where workers may use dangerous methods like burning or leaching using harsh chemicals to pull out valuable metals. These practices can harm both the environment and workers’ health. That’s why the Environmental Protection Agency restricts these methods in the U.S.

    The tiny specks matter

    Critical minerals are in most of the technology around you. Every phone screen has a super-thin layer of a material called indium tin oxide. LEDs glow because of a metal called gallium. Tantalum stores energy in tiny electronic parts called capacitors.

    All of these materials are flagged as “high risk” on the U.S. Department of Energy’s critical materials list. That means the U.S. relies heavily on these materials for important technologies, but their supply could be easily disrupted by conflicts, trade disputes or shortages.

    Right now, just a few countries, including China, control most of the mining, processing and recovery of these materials, making the U.S. vulnerable if those countries decide to limit exports or raise prices.

    These materials aren’t cheap, either. For example, the U.S. Geological Survey reports that gallium was priced between US$220 to $500 per kilogram in 2024. That’s 50 times more expensive than common metals like copper, at $9.48 per kilogram in 2024.

    Revolutionizing recycling with microwaves

    At West Virginia University’s Department of Mechanical, Materials and Aerospace Engineering, I and materials scientist Edward Sabolsky asked a simple question: Could we find a way to heat only specific parts of electronic waste to recover these valuable materials?

    If we could focus the heat on just the tiny specks of critical minerals, we might be able to recycle them easily and efficiently.

    The solution we found: microwaves.

    This equipment isn’t very different from the microwave ovens you use to heat food at home, just bigger and more powerful. The basic science is the same – electromagnetic waves cause electrons to oscillate, creating heat.

    In our approach, though, we’re not heating water molecules like you do when cooking. Instead, we heat carbon, the black residue that collects around a candle flame or car tailpipe. Carbon heats up much faster in a microwave than water does. But don’t try this at home; your kitchen microwave wasn’t designed for such high temperatures.

    West Virginia University researchers are using this experimental microwave reactor to recycle critical materials from end-of-life electronics.
    Ansan Pokharel/West Virginia University, CC BY

    In our recycling method, we first shred the electronic waste, mix it with materials called fluxes that trap impurities, and then heat the mixture with microwaves. The microwaves rapidly heat the carbon that comes from the plastics and adhesives in the e-waste. This causes the carbon to react with the tiny specks of critical materials. The result: a tiny piece of pure, sponge-like metal about the size of a grain of rice.

    This metal can then be easily separated from leftover waste using filters.

    So far, in our laboratory tests, we have successfully recovered about 80% of the gallium, indium and tantalum from e-waste, at purities between 95% and 97%. We have also demonstrated how it can be integrated with existing recycling processes.

    Why the Department of Defense is interested

    Our recycling technology got its start with help from a program funded by the Defense Department’s Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA.

    Many important technologies, from radar systems to nuclear reactors, depend on these special materials. While the Department of Defense uses less of them than the commercial market, they are a national security concern.

    We’re planning to launch larger pilot projects next to test the method on smartphone circuit boards, LED lighting parts and server cards from data centers. These tests will help us fine-tune the design for a bigger system that can recycle tons of e-waste per hour instead of just a few pounds. That could mean producing up to 50 pounds of these critical minerals per hour from every ton of e-waste processed.

    If the technology works as expected, we believe this approach could help meet the nation’s demand for critical materials.

    How to make e-waste recycling common

    One way e-waste recycling could become more common is if Congress held electronics companies responsible for recycling their products and recovering the critical materials inside. Closing loopholes that allow companies to ship e-waste overseas, instead of processing it safely in the U.S., could also help build a reserve of recovered critical minerals.

    But the biggest change may come from simple economics. Once technology becomes available to recover these tiny but valuable specks of critical materials quickly and affordably, the U.S. can transform domestic recycling and take a big step toward solving its shortage of critical materials.

    Terence Musho has received funding from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy.

    – ref. Critical minerals don’t belong in landfills – microwave tech offers a cleaner way to reclaim them from e-waste – https://theconversation.com/critical-minerals-dont-belong-in-landfills-microwave-tech-offers-a-cleaner-way-to-reclaim-them-from-e-waste-254908

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: People you may not know attended an ACT public school

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    In brief

    • Over the years, many well-known people have attended a Canberra public school.
    • Some attended for a short time, for university or alongside training at the Australian Institute of Sport.
    • This article lists some of these people.

    It’s no secret Canberra is a great place to live. It’s also, unsurprisingly, a great place to go to school.

    We’ve pulled together a list of well-known people who have attended an ACT public school or university.

    From actors to authors and artists to activists, plenty of impressive Aussies were educated right here in Canberra.

    Some may have stayed only a while. Some came just for uni or a sporting scholarship. Regardless, we’re happy to claim them.

    While this is not an exhaustive list, you’re bound to discover something new as you scroll.

    SCREEN AND STAGE

    Alan Alder – Ballet dancer and teacher

    Canberra High School

    Wil Anderson – Comedian and TV presenter

    University of Canberra

    Imogen Bailey – Model, actress, singer

    Melrose High School, Phillip College (now Canberra College)

    Jon Casimir – TV producer and executive

    Hawker College

    Jackie Chan – Actor

    Dickson College

    Ronny Chieng – Comedian

    Australian National University

    Gary Eck – Comedian and TV presenter

    Latham Primary School, Belconnen High School, Hawker College

    Tim Ferguson – Comedian and TV presenter

    School Without Walls (now closed), Narrabundah College

    Leon Ford – Director and screenwriter

    Telopea Park School, Narrabundah College

    Hannah Gadsby – Comedian

    Australian National University

    Richard Glover – Writer and radio presenter

    Australian National University

    Alister Grierson – Director and screenwriter

    Australian National University

    Liv Hewson – Actor and playwright

    Alfred Deakin High School, Canberra College

    Matthew Le Nevez – Actor

    Telopea Park School

    Paul McDermott – Comedian and TV presenter

    Dickson College, Australian National University

    Rhys Muldoon – Actor

    Scullin Primary School (closed, now Southern Cross Early Childhood School), Belconnen High School, Hawker College

    Alex O’Loughlin – Actor

    Macquarie Primary School

    Felicity Packard – Screenwriter and academic

    Lyneham High School, University of Canberra, Australian National University

    Rachel Perkins – Director, producer and screenwriter

    Melrose Primary School (now closed)

    Tanzeal Rahim – Director and writer

    University of Canberra

    Helen Razer – Radio presenter and writer

    Weston Creek High School (closed, now part of Mount Stromlo High School), Narrabundah College

    Richard Roxburgh – Actor

    Australian National University

    Ben Snow – Visual Effects, Writer, Director

    Narrabundah College, University of Canberra

    James Wan – Director

    Lake Tuggeranong College

    Mia Wasikowska – Actor

    Cook Primary School (now closed), Ainslie Primary School, Canberra High School

    Kirsty Webeck – Comedian

    Mt Stromlo High School, Narrabundah College, University of Canberra

    Sara Zwangobani – Actor

    Cook Primary School (now closed), Hawker College

    BOOKS AND NEWS

    Bettina Arndt – Journalist

    Australian National University

    Cynthia Banham – Journalist and academic

    Australian National University

    Rosemary Church – International news anchor

    University of Canberra

    Morris Gleitzman – Author

    Canberra College of Advanced Education (now the University of Canberra)

    Irma Gold – Author and podcaster

    University of Canberra

    Stan Grant – Journalist and author

    Australian National University

    Emma Grey – Author

    Garran Primary School, University of Canberra, Australian National University, Canberra Institute of Technology

    Marion Halligan – Author

    Australian National University. Marian also taught English at Canberra High School.

    Sonya Heaney – Author

    Melrose High School, University of Canberra

    Jack Heath – Author

    Lyneham High School, Narrabundah College

    Ingrid Jonach – Author

    University of Canberra

    Emma Macdonald – Journalist

    North Ainslie Primary School, University of Canberra

    Andrew Marlton aka First Dog on the Moon – Cartoonist

    Yarralumla Primary School

    Karen Middleton – Journalist

    Belconnen High School, Hawker College

    Garth Nix – Author

    Turner Primary School, Lyneham High School, Dickson College

    Dan O’Malley – Author

    Garran Primary School

    Sarah Oakes – Editor and Journalist

    University of Canberra

    Debra Oswald – Screenwriter and author

    Australian National University

    Stephanie Owen Reeder – Author

    University of Canberra

    Jamila Rizvi – Author and journalist

    Lyneham High School, Hawker College

    Brendan Shanahan – Author and journalist

    Narrabundah College, Australian National University

    Kimberley Starr – Author

    Garran Primary School

    Gabrielle Tozer – Author and Journalist

    University of Canberra

    Karen Viggers – Author and vet

    Australian National University

    Sam Vincent – Author and journalist

    University of Canberra

    Amanda Whitley – HerCanberra founder

    University of Canberra

    SPORTS

    Suzy Batkovic – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Darren Beadman – Jockey

    Garran Primary School, Lyneham High School

    Michael Bevan – Cricketer

    Stirling College (became part of Canberra College)

    Abby Bishop – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Justin Blumfield – AFL player

    Melrose High School

    Andrew Bogut – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Edwina Bone – Hockey player

    University of Canberra

    Caroline Buchanan – BMX and mountain bike rider

    Duffy Primary School, Lanyon High School, Erindale College

    Liz Cambage – Basketballer

    UC SSC Lake Ginninderra (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Bradley Clyde – Rugby league player

    Hawker College

    Matthew Dellavedova – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Brennon Dowrick – Gymnast

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra), University of Canberra

    Danté Exum – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Linley Frame – Swimmer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    George Gregan – Rugby union player

    University of Canberra

    Aaron Hamill – AFL player

    Fadden Primary School, Melrose High School, Phillip College (became part of Canberra College)

    Lincoln Hall – Mountain climber

    Telopea Park School, Australian National University

    Shane Heal – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    James Hird – AFL player

    Ainslie Primary School

    Andrew Illie – Tennis player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Joe Ingles – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Lauren Jackson – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Stephen Larkham – Rugby Union player and coach

    Australian National University

    Scott Miller – Swimmer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Patty Mills – Basketballer

    Lanyon High School, UC SSC Lake Ginninderra

    Joanne Morgan – Netballer and coach

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Cameron Myers – Athlete

    UC SSC Lake Ginninderra

    Lucas Neill – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Rennae Stubbs – Tennis player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Petria Thomas – Swimmer and Commonwealth Games Chef de Mission

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra), University of Canberra

    Marianna Tolo – Basketballer

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Emily Van Egmond – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Mark Viduka – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Todd Woodbridge – Tennis player and commentator

    Lyneham High School, Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Ned Zelic – Soccer player

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    MUSIC

    Peter Blakeley – Singer and songwriter

    Hughes Primary School

    Peter Casey – Musical director

    Cook Primary School (now closed)

    Matt Cooper, Matt Parkitny, Alex Pearson, Joel Tyrrell, Trenton Woodley – Hands Like Houses band members

    Melba High School and Copland College (amalgamated to become Melba Copland Secondary School) and Canberra High School between them

    Martin Craft – Sidewinder band member

    Narrabundah College

    Cameron Emerson-Elliott, Toby Martin – Youth Group band members

    Narrabundah College

    Frank Gambale – Guitarist

    Canberra High School

    Peter Garrett – Midnight Oil band member and former politician

    Australian National University

    Adam Hyde, Reuben Styles – Peking Duk band members

    Lyneham High School and Dickson College between them

    Hayley Jensen – Singer and songwriter

    Australian National University, University of Canberra

    Steven Kilbey – The Church band member

    Lyneham High School

    Lisa Moore – Pianist

    Telopea Park School

    Tim Omaji aka Timomatic – Singer, songwriter and dancer

    Narrabundah College

    Tim Rogers – Musician, You Am I band member

    Australian National University

    Sally Whitwell – Classical pianist and composer

    Australian National University

    AND STILL MORE

    Jess Cochrane – Artist

    Mt Stromlo High School

    Stefania Ferrario – Activist and model

    Telopea Park School, Narrabundah College

    Rosalie Gascoigne – Artist

    Australian National University

    Bob Hawke – Former Prime Minister of Australia

    Australian National University

    Tziporah Malkah (formerly Kate Fischer) – Model and actress

    Narrabundah College

    Sam Mostyn – Current Governor General of Australia

    South Curtin Primary School (became Curtin Primary School), Woden Valley High School (became part of Alfred Deakin High School), Narrabundah College

    Hetti Perkins – Art curator, writer and activist

    Melrose Primary School (now closed)

    Patricia Piccinini – Artist

    Narrabundah College

    Sam Prince – Zambreros founder, entrepreneur and doctor

    Lake Ginninderra College (now UC SSC Lake Ginninderra)

    Kevin Rudd – former Prime Minister of Australia

    Australian National University

    Gough Whitlam – Former Prime Minister of Australia

    Telopea Park School

    A COUPLE OF NOTABLE MENTIONS FROM OVER THE BORDER

    David Campese – Rugby Union player and commentator

    Queanbeyan High School

    Mark Webber – Formula One driver and commentator

    Isabella Street Primary School, Karabar High School

    ENROL YOUR CHILD IN AN ACT SCHOOL

    Today, more than 50,000 students are enrolled across the ACT’s 92 public schools.

    To find a school or enrol your child, visit the ACT Education website.

    To apply for university in Canberra, you’ll typically apply through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) or directly to the university.

    Read more like this

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Establishing a new model of integrity and green energy, “Green Energy Transparency, Integrity in Action” seminar series launches in Taichung.

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To promote low-carbon industrial transformation and corporate integrity governance simultaneously, the Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has held four “Green Energy Transparency, Integrity in Action” seminars across the Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung-Pingtung branches. The first session was held on May 22 at the Taichung Branch, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of SMEs in energy transformation. The seminar was hosted by Ji Shih-Tsung, Director of the Taichung Branch, and gathered representatives from government, industry, and academia to explore how to implement transparency and integrity in the process of green energy development and work together to establish a corporate model that combines integrity and sustainability.
    In his opening remarks, Ji Shih-Tsung, director of the Taichung Branch, stated that promoting integrity and green energy development in tandem has been a key objective of the BIP. By integrating the forces of industry, government, and academia through the practical sharing platform, BIP could not only assist companies in strengthening their ESG concepts, but also guide the park towards a green development path with greater international competitiveness.
    The Bureau of Industrial Parks pointed out that enterprises in the parks are increasingly focused on carbon fees, green electricity procurement, and carbon neutrality models. In response to this trend, the seminar spotlighted how SMEs can effectively implement low-carbon transformation while ensuring transparency and integrity in corporate governance. Through diverse case studies and expert insights, the event offered participants actionable strategies for achieving sustainable development.
    The seminar invited many heavyweight speakers and benchmark companies in the green energy industry to participate in the event, including Transparency International Chinese Taipei (TICT), which has long been deeply involved in promoting corporate integrity, as well as Sunny Founder and TCC Green Energy Corporation, which have outstanding performance in the field of solar energy and renewable energy. These corporate representatives shared their achievements in green power trading, integrity governance, and corporate social responsibility practices, covering practical experience from development process transparency to supply chain ESG management. Through experience exchange, participants were able to gain a deeper understanding of how green power introduction and ethical management reinforce one another to create a win-win development model for businesses and society.
    The topics discussed at the seminar also align closely with Taiwan’s recent sustainable policies. As global supply chains impose stricter requirements on environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) standards, companies are placing greater emphasis on the integrity and transparency of their suppliers when making decisions on green electricity procurement and energy usage. The ability of green energy companies to disclose openly sustainability data has now become a crucial factor in corporate partnerships and procurement strategies.
    In addition, TICT delivered an in-depth analysis of monitoring mechanisms in the green energy sector, helping attending companies better understand current regulations and potential risks while enhancing their institutional resilience. This cross-sector collaboration and knowledge sharing also contribute to the industry’s deeper grasp of sustainable governance practices.
    Looking ahead, the Bureau of Industrial Parks stated that BIP would continue to uphold principles of integrity and efficiency, actively building cross-disciplinary exchange platforms. By doing so, it seeks to support enterprises in parks in meeting the challenges of international sustainability and equip them for a stable and successful transition.

    Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
    Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

    Contact Person: Hsu, Chen-Hsiung (Government Ethics Office, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-7-3611212 ext. 631
    Email: logan521018@bip.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Media release: East coast gas market review an opportunity to strengthen investment and increase supply – Australian Energy Producers

    Source: Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association

    Headline: Media release: East coast gas market review an opportunity to strengthen investment and increase supply – Australian Energy Producers

    Australian Energy Producers welcomes the Federal Government’s review of the east coast gas market to deliver the natural gas needed to power the economy, put downward pressure on prices, and remain a reliable export partner. 

    Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said industry supported the Government’s commitment to consolidating and streamlining regulations and creating a long-term stable regulatory environment to facilitate investment in new supply. 

    “The review is an opportunity to future-proof the east coast gas market and ensure reliable and affordable gas supply for Australian households and manufacturers,” Ms McCulloch said.

    “Natural gas will play a critical role in Australia’s energy mix for decades to come. The east coast gas market needs to be fit-for-purpose to support continued investment in our abundant gas resources and avoid projected shortfalls.  

    Ms McCulloch said the review should focus on delivering new gas supply by streamlining regulation, restoring market signals, and eliminating duplicative and onerous reporting requirements. 

    “The Government’s Future Gas Strategy makes clear that natural gas will remain critical to Australia’s energy security through to 2050 and beyond. This requires a strong, stable and competitive east coast gas market that encourages investment and timely supply.” 

    The ACCC’s latest report on the east coast gas market released today underscores the urgent need to remove barriers to new gas supply to avoid forecast gas shortfalls. It found “the east coast has sufficient gas reserves and resources to meet projected domestic demand for at least the next decade”, but “a combination of policy, technical and commercial factors over the past 15 years has impeded their development”. 

    “Australian gas producers are committed to delivering the reliable and affordable gas supply Australians need, and we look forward to working constructively with government, gas users and stakeholders throughout the review,” Ms McCulloch said. 

    Media Contact: 0434 631 511

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fuel margins remain high despite lower fuel prices, CMA finds

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Fuel margins remain high despite lower fuel prices, CMA finds

    Today’s monitoring report sets out the Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA) observations on developments in the UK’s road fuel retail market since the previous update in March 2025.

    Dan Turnbull, Senior Director of Markets at the CMA, said:   

    While there is uncertainty over how global events will impact the price of oil, our report shows fuel margins remain high compared to historic levels despite lower prices at the pump in recent months. 

    The government committed to launching a ‘fuel finder’ scheme following our recommendation to help drivers compare real time prices and boost competition. Once launched, it will make it easier than ever to shop around and find the best deals.

    Fuel prices 

    Fuel prices across the UK decreased for both petrol and diesel from end of February 2025 to end of May 2025. These movements reflect in part changing crude oil prices and refining spreads, both of which are driven by global factors. 

    The average petrol and diesel prices at the end of May 2025 were 132.0 and 138.4 pence per litre (ppl) respectively. This represents a decrease of 7.6 ppl and 8.4 ppl in petrol and diesel prices compared to the end of February 2025.  

    Fuel margins 

    A retailer’s fuel margin is the difference between what it pays for fuel and what it sells it at. The CMA found that fuel margins were similar to the high levels seen during its road fuel market study – a review of the market to understand the factors influencing fuel prices undertaken in 2023 – which suggests overall competition in the UK’s road fuel retail market remains weak. 

    Supermarket fuel margins fell from 8.9% in December 2024 to 7.9% in February 2025, before rising to 8.3% in March 2025. Non-supermarket fuel margins fell from 9.9% in December 2024 to 8.9% in January 2025, before rising to 10.4% in March 2025. 

    This report does not consider developments in operating costs since the road fuel market study. The CMA will undertake a review of fuel retailer operating costs in its first annual road fuel monitoring report later this year to assess whether operating cost changes are impacting fuel margins for large retailers. 

    Retail spreads 

    The CMA also looked at the retail spread – the average price that drivers pay at the pump compared to the benchmarked price that retailers buy fuel at – across the UK from March 2025 to May 2025. 

    Petrol retail spreads averaged 15.4 ppl, which was 1.5 ppl higher than the previous 4 months period – and still more than double the average of 6.5 ppl over 2015-19. Diesel retail spreads averaged 18.8 ppl, which was 4.6 ppl higher than the previous 4 months period and more than double the average of 8.6 ppl in 2015 – 2019. 

    While spread analysis can give a quick overview of trends in the sector, it is a less reliable indicator of competitive intensity than individual retailers’ fuel margins. Retail spreads increase and decrease in response to the volatility of wholesale prices but should return to a normal range over time, if the market is working well. 

    Road fuel market study 

    At the end of its road fuel market study, the CMA recommended a new monitoring function and fuel finder scheme to government. 

    The CMA has taken on the new statutory monitoring function, which will provide ongoing scrutiny of prices to encourage effective competition between retailers and help keep prices low for drivers. This update is based on data provided to the CMA by fuel retailers using its new information gathering powers granted under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act. 

    The ‘fuel finder’ scheme will allow drivers to compare real-time fuel prices, via navigation apps, in-car devices and comparison websites. The government’s aim is to launch the scheme by the end of this year, subject to legislation and parliamentary time.  

    Further details about the CMA’s road fuel monitoring function, including previous reports and guidance, can be found on the collection page. 

    Notes to editors 

    1. The CMA issued section 311 Information Notices to the following retailers: Applegreen PLC; Arthur Foodstores Limited, Asda Express Limited, and Asda Stores Limited (Asda); BP Oil UK Limited; Esso Petroleum Company Limited; Moto Hospitality Limited; Motor Fuel Group; Rontec Roadside Retail Limited; J Sainsbury PLC; Shell PLC; Tesco PLC; and Welcome Break Group Limited. 

    2. Motor Fuel Group announced the completed acquisition of Morrisons PFSs in the UK on 30 April 2024. 

    3. All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: E3 Foreign Ministers’ statement: 30 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    E3 Foreign Ministers’ statement: 30 June 2025

    Joint statement by the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the UK on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    France, Germany and the United Kingdom condemn threats within Iran against the Director General of the IAEA Rafael Grossi and reiterate our full support to the Agency and the DG in carrying out their mandate.

    We call on Iranian authorities to refrain from any steps to cease cooperation with the IAEA.

    We urge Iran to immediately resume full cooperation in line with its legally binding obligations, and to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of IAEA personnel.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Indonesia launches major electric vehicle battery project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    JAKARTA, June 30 (Xinhua) — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Sunday attended a groundbreaking ceremony for a major electric vehicle battery manufacturing mega project in Karawang, West Java province.

    The project, with a total investment of US$6 billion, covers nickel mining and processing, battery material production, battery assembly and recycling.

    Indonesia is currently the world’s largest producer of nickel and has the largest proven reserves of the metal, which is a key component in electric vehicle batteries.

    The project is being implemented by state-owned mining company PT Aneka Tambang (Antam), state-owned investment holding company PT and Indonesia Battery Corporation (IBC) together with China’s Ningbo Contemporary Brunp Lygend Co., Ltd. (CBL).

    “This groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to the seriousness of our leaders’ commitment to working with our partners and friends in China. We can work together on a program that I think is a tremendous, remarkable breakthrough,” Prabowo Subianto said in his speech at the ceremony.

    Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the project is expected to create 35,000 jobs and contribute up to $42 billion a year to Indonesia’s GDP.

    He also noted that the plant will be able to produce batteries for 300,000 cars, which will help reduce Indonesia’s fuel imports by about 300,000 kiloliters per year.

    Bahlil Lahadalia added that the project is in line with the president’s vision for a more equitable national development. Although the project will start in Java, about three-quarters of the total investment is planned for North Maluku province. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cabinet Secretary visits landmark mine water heat scheme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Cabinet Secretary visits landmark mine water heat scheme

    Welsh Minister Rebecca Evans opens Wales’ first commercial mine water heat scheme in Ammanford, showcasing low-carbon energy from former coal mines.

    Wales’ first commercial mine water heat scheme, in Ammanford, has been officially opened today by Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans.

    The pioneering project was developed by the Mining Remediation Authority, at its existing Lindsay mine water treatment scheme, in partnership with local renewable energy company Thermal Earth Ltd and Innovate UK.

    Low-carbon heating and hot water is now being delivered to an industrial unit and offices on the Capel Hendre Industrial Estate in a flagship example of how Wales is turning its industrial past into a sustainable energy future.

    Rebecca Evans MS, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said:

    In Wales, we want to lead the way in renewable energy solutions that make the most of our industrial heritage.

    By repurposing our former mining infrastructure to provide clean, sustainable heat, we are not only reducing carbon emissions but also creating new economic opportunities in our communities and strengthening local economies.

    The Lindsay scheme uses heat exchangers submerged in treatment ponds to extract warmth from naturally heated mine water, which is then boosted to replace fossil fuel heating, saving an estimated 17.5 tonnes of CO₂ annually.

    It was identified as a prime opportunity through detailed mine water heat mapping commissioned by the Welsh Government and delivered by the Mining Remediation Authority.

    This work forms part of the Heat Strategy for Wales and highlights areas where mine water schemes could play a significant role in decarbonising heat and supporting local energy planning.

    Andrew Simpson, head of Innovation, By-Products and Service Delivery at the Mining Remediation Authority, said:

    Today marks a proud moment for everyone involved. This isn’t just a technical achievement, it’s a statement of intent. We’re showing that mine water heat can be a practical, scalable solution for decarbonising heat. It’s a model we hope to see replicated across Wales and beyond.

    Nick Salini, managing director of Thermal Earth Ltd, added:

    This project is proof that local innovation can drive national change. As a business rooted in Ammanford, we’re proud to be part of a scheme that’s not only reducing our carbon footprint but also demonstrating what’s possible when public and private sectors work together with a shared vision.

    Project partners and stakeholders toured the site, which has been operational since March 2025 and forms part of a broader programme by the Mining Remediation Authority to explore the geothermal energy potential of Britain’s coalfields, including any opportunities at more than 80 mine water treatment sites it already operates to protect and enhance the environment.

    This latest development builds on the success of earlier projects in the North East of England, including the privately funded scheme at Lanchester Wines, Gateshead, which has been using mine water to provide low-carbon space heating since 2018.

    More recently, the Gateshead Energy Company mine water heat network, the UK’s first large-scale scheme of its kind, began supplying heat to homes, public buildings and businesses in 2023.

    These projects have demonstrated the reliability and potential of mine water heat, laying the groundwork for wider adoption across the UK.

    Further momentum is building with the Seaham Garden Village project in County Durham, currently under development, which aims to use mine water heat to supply 750 new homes, showcasing how mine water energy can support large-scale, sustainable housing developments.

    The Mining Remediation Authority is also progressing discussions with local authorities and industry partners across Great Britain. This includes scoping of potential sites in Wales with Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly, Flintshire and Blaenau Gwent councils, as well as wider engagement to identify and develop future mine water heat schemes that can support the transition to low-carbon heating at scale.

    For media enquiries contact the community response team

    Email communityresponse@miningremediation.gov.uk

    Telephone 0800 288 4211

    For emergency media enquiries (out of hours) call: 0800 288 4242.
    Only urgent media calls will be attended to.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Partner to Bridge Gap in Global Childhood Cancer Care

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital entered a significant new partnership to address inequality in global childhood cancer care at the Agency’s Rays of Hope Forum in Ethiopia today.

    St. Jude, based in Memphis, Tennessee in the United States, is investing US $4.5 million over three years for the IAEA to support countries in expanding access to paediatric radiotherapy and to strengthen health systems, with the goal of improving survival rates and quality of life for children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

    Each year, an estimated 400,000 children develop cancer globally. While survival rates exceed 80% in high-income countries with accessible care, over 90% of children with cancer reside in LMICs, where survival rates remain below 30%.

    A major contributor to this disparity is limited access to advanced clinical imaging, which is critical for accurate diseases classification, treatment planning and monitoring. Without it, children face delays or errors in diagnosis, significantly impacting outcomes.

    Access to paediatric radiotherapy is severely limited in LMICs, despite its importance in treating nearly half of all childhood cancers. A 2021 IAEA study highlighted major challenges in these settings, including  equipment access or insufficiencies, and a critical shortage of specialized radiation medicine professionals for childhood cancers.

    “Children should not die of cancer simply because of where they are born. Every child, everywhere, deserves the same chance to survive and thrive,” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. “By closing the gap in access to cancer care, we can ensure that children, regardless of their geographic location or economic status, have equal opportunities for successful treatment. Survival should be a reality, not a privilege.”

    The collaboration between the IAEA and St. Jude aims to strengthen national capacity in childhood cancer care and control and to improve access to paediatric radiotherapy by training specialists—essential for improving survival and outcomes for children with cancer. The partnership focuses on delivering technical resources, curricula and guidance documents for radiation oncologists, radiotherapy technicians and medical physicists, and supporting their implementation in selected LMICs. Through the imPACT Review assessment tools for childhood cancer, the collaboration also will assess capacities and needs of health systems and strengthen national cancer control programmes.

    “Over the past decade, St. Jude has expanded its global presence in pursuit of increasing childhood cancer cure rates worldwide. A critical step in our mission is ensuring children everywhere have access to necessary diagnostics and treatment,” said James R. Downing, MD, president and CEO of St. Jude. “Partnering with IAEA highlights that commitment and will help save countless lives.”

    This marks the launch of the IAEA’s Rays of Hope for Childhood Cancer, under the wider IAEA Rays of Hope initiative. Rays of Hope has expanded life-saving cancer care to thousands of patients in LMICs around the world since launching in 2022. Securing more than €90 million already from dedicated donors and partners, including governments mobilizing national resources, has helped close the gap in global radiation medicine. Building on this impact, the IAEA is working with St. Jude to expand the initiative to focus on the gap in childhood cancer care.

    “Limited access to specialized care for children with cancer has a negative impact on their chances to be cured,” said Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, MD, St. Jude executive vice president and director of St. Jude Global. “Significant gaps in the quality of radiotherapy services exist in LMICs when compared to what is routine practice across high-income countries. This effort with IAEA will help strengthen the national capacity to treat children with cancer, and increase access to the vital diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy that will improve the survival rate and quality of life for children affected by cancers where these treatments play a prominent role.”

    Following today’s signing, the first phase of the Rays of Hope for Childhood Cancer initiative will focus on jointly developing technical products and guidance documents—referred to as Global Goods—and organizing a series of events to support their effective adoption and use by countries. Addressing childhood cancer is a multifaceted challenge requiring a comprehensive approach where the IAEA and St. Jude play key roles. It involves complex procedures that require sophisticated decision-making and highly technical skills that require specialized training. For paediatric radiotherapy specialists, partnership trainings and Global Goods will reduce knowledge gaps and enhance the quality of care their patients receive.

    IAEA

    The IAEA has over 60 years of experience supporting countries in the fight against cancer, including childhood cancer. Through its Human Health Programme, the IAEA has helped countries around the world to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease by developing and applying nuclear and radiation techniques. Its medical expertise across nutrition, radiology, nuclear medicine, radiobiology, radiation oncology, medical physics and dosimetry has advanced cancer care capacities through coordinated research projects, educational materials, e-learning modules, curricula, guidance documents, scientific publications, international codes of practice, databases, quality assurance activities, audit services, databases, the Human Health Campus and the implementation of the Technical Cooperation Programme. Through its Technical Cooperation Programme, it helps countries strengthen cancer care by providing equipment, training and technical assistance in diagnostic imaging, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy. Operating across four global regions, the programme tailors support to local needs and promotes regional collaboration.

    The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, launched in 2022, builds on this work to accelerate access to radiotherapy and medical imaging in low-resource settings. Through Rays of Hope the IAEA promotes comprehensive cancer care where it is needed most and has designated regional anchor centres to serve as knowledge and capacity building hubs for radiation medicine.

    St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

    St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, is a global leader in the research and treatment of childhood cancer, sickle cell disease and other life-threatening pediatric diseases. St. Jude is the only National Cancer Institute–designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments developed at St. Jude have helped push the U.S. childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to 80% since the hospital opened in 1962. St. Jude is extending its mission to help more children around the world. In 2018, St. Jude and World Health Organization launched the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer to increase survival rates from 20% to 60% by 2030 for six of the most common forms of childhood cancer. The St. Jude Global Alliance is a global network with a shared vision of improving care and increasing survival rates of children with cancer and blood disorders worldwide. To learn more, visit stjude.org, read the St. Jude Progress blog, and follow St. Jude on social media @stjuderesearch.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Partner to Bridge Gap in Global Childhood Cancer Care

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital entered a significant new partnership to address inequality in global childhood cancer care at the Agency’s Rays of Hope Forum in Ethiopia today.

    St. Jude, based in Memphis, Tennessee in the United States, is investing US $4.5 million over three years for the IAEA to support countries in expanding access to paediatric radiotherapy and to strengthen health systems, with the goal of improving survival rates and quality of life for children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

    Each year, an estimated 400,000 children develop cancer globally. While survival rates exceed 80% in high-income countries with accessible care, over 90% of children with cancer reside in LMICs, where survival rates remain below 30%.

    A major contributor to this disparity is limited access to advanced clinical imaging, which is critical for accurate diseases classification, treatment planning and monitoring. Without it, children face delays or errors in diagnosis, significantly impacting outcomes.

    Access to paediatric radiotherapy is severely limited in LMICs, despite its importance in treating nearly half of all childhood cancers. A 2021 IAEA study highlighted major challenges in these settings, including  equipment access or insufficiencies, and a critical shortage of specialized radiation medicine professionals for childhood cancers.

    “Children should not die of cancer simply because of where they are born. Every child, everywhere, deserves the same chance to survive and thrive,” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. “By closing the gap in access to cancer care, we can ensure that children, regardless of their geographic location or economic status, have equal opportunities for successful treatment. Survival should be a reality, not a privilege.”

    The collaboration between the IAEA and St. Jude aims to strengthen national capacity in childhood cancer care and control and to improve access to paediatric radiotherapy by training specialists—essential for improving survival and outcomes for children with cancer. The partnership focuses on delivering technical resources, curricula and guidance documents for radiation oncologists, radiotherapy technicians and medical physicists, and supporting their implementation in selected LMICs. Through the imPACT Review assessment tools for childhood cancer, the collaboration also will assess capacities and needs of health systems and strengthen national cancer control programmes.

    “Over the past decade, St. Jude has expanded its global presence in pursuit of increasing childhood cancer cure rates worldwide. A critical step in our mission is ensuring children everywhere have access to necessary diagnostics and treatment,” said James R. Downing, MD, president and CEO of St. Jude. “Partnering with IAEA highlights that commitment and will help save countless lives.”

    This marks the launch of the IAEA’s Rays of Hope for Childhood Cancer, under the wider IAEA Rays of Hope initiative. Rays of Hope has expanded life-saving cancer care to thousands of patients in LMICs around the world since launching in 2022. Securing more than €90 million already from dedicated donors and partners, including governments mobilizing national resources, has helped close the gap in global radiation medicine. Building on this impact, the IAEA is working with St. Jude to expand the initiative to focus on the gap in childhood cancer care.

    “Limited access to specialized care for children with cancer has a negative impact on their chances to be cured,” said Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, MD, St. Jude executive vice president and director of St. Jude Global. “Significant gaps in the quality of radiotherapy services exist in LMICs when compared to what is routine practice across high-income countries. This effort with IAEA will help strengthen the national capacity to treat children with cancer, and increase access to the vital diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy that will improve the survival rate and quality of life for children affected by cancers where these treatments play a prominent role.”

    Following today’s signing, the first phase of the Rays of Hope for Childhood Cancer initiative will focus on jointly developing technical products and guidance documents—referred to as Global Goods—and organizing a series of events to support their effective adoption and use by countries. Addressing childhood cancer is a multifaceted challenge requiring a comprehensive approach where the IAEA and St. Jude play key roles. It involves complex procedures that require sophisticated decision-making and highly technical skills that require specialized training. For paediatric radiotherapy specialists, partnership trainings and Global Goods will reduce knowledge gaps and enhance the quality of care their patients receive.

    IAEA

    The IAEA has over 60 years of experience supporting countries in the fight against cancer, including childhood cancer. Through its Human Health Programme, the IAEA has helped countries around the world to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease by developing and applying nuclear and radiation techniques. Its medical expertise across nutrition, radiology, nuclear medicine, radiobiology, radiation oncology, medical physics and dosimetry has advanced cancer care capacities through coordinated research projects, educational materials, e-learning modules, curricula, guidance documents, scientific publications, international codes of practice, databases, quality assurance activities, audit services, databases, the Human Health Campus and the implementation of the Technical Cooperation Programme. Through its Technical Cooperation Programme, it helps countries strengthen cancer care by providing equipment, training and technical assistance in diagnostic imaging, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy. Operating across four global regions, the programme tailors support to local needs and promotes regional collaboration.

    The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, launched in 2022, builds on this work to accelerate access to radiotherapy and medical imaging in low-resource settings. Through Rays of Hope the IAEA promotes comprehensive cancer care where it is needed most and has designated regional anchor centres to serve as knowledge and capacity building hubs for radiation medicine.

    St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

    St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, is a global leader in the research and treatment of childhood cancer, sickle cell disease and other life-threatening pediatric diseases. St. Jude is the only National Cancer Institute–designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments developed at St. Jude have helped push the U.S. childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to 80% since the hospital opened in 1962. St. Jude is extending its mission to help more children around the world. In 2018, St. Jude and World Health Organization launched the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer to increase survival rates from 20% to 60% by 2030 for six of the most common forms of childhood cancer. The St. Jude Global Alliance is a global network with a shared vision of improving care and increasing survival rates of children with cancer and blood disorders worldwide. To learn more, visit stjude.org, read the St. Jude Progress blog, and follow St. Jude on social media @stjuderesearch.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IAEA and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Partner to Bridge Gap in Global Childhood Cancer Care

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital entered a significant new partnership to address inequality in global childhood cancer care at the Agency’s Rays of Hope Forum in Ethiopia today.

    St. Jude, based in Memphis, Tennessee in the United States, is investing US $4.5 million over three years for the IAEA to support countries in expanding access to paediatric radiotherapy and to strengthen health systems, with the goal of improving survival rates and quality of life for children with cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

    Each year, an estimated 400,000 children develop cancer globally. While survival rates exceed 80% in high-income countries with accessible care, over 90% of children with cancer reside in LMICs, where survival rates remain below 30%.

    A major contributor to this disparity is limited access to advanced clinical imaging, which is critical for accurate diseases classification, treatment planning and monitoring. Without it, children face delays or errors in diagnosis, significantly impacting outcomes.

    Access to paediatric radiotherapy is severely limited in LMICs, despite its importance in treating nearly half of all childhood cancers. A 2021 IAEA study highlighted major challenges in these settings, including  equipment access or insufficiencies, and a critical shortage of specialized radiation medicine professionals for childhood cancers.

    “Children should not die of cancer simply because of where they are born. Every child, everywhere, deserves the same chance to survive and thrive,” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. “By closing the gap in access to cancer care, we can ensure that children, regardless of their geographic location or economic status, have equal opportunities for successful treatment. Survival should be a reality, not a privilege.”

    The collaboration between the IAEA and St. Jude aims to strengthen national capacity in childhood cancer care and control and to improve access to paediatric radiotherapy by training specialists—essential for improving survival and outcomes for children with cancer. The partnership focuses on delivering technical resources, curricula and guidance documents for radiation oncologists, radiotherapy technicians and medical physicists, and supporting their implementation in selected LMICs. Through the imPACT Review assessment tools for childhood cancer, the collaboration also will assess capacities and needs of health systems and strengthen national cancer control programmes.

    “Over the past decade, St. Jude has expanded its global presence in pursuit of increasing childhood cancer cure rates worldwide. A critical step in our mission is ensuring children everywhere have access to necessary diagnostics and treatment,” said James R. Downing, MD, president and CEO of St. Jude. “Partnering with IAEA highlights that commitment and will help save countless lives.”

    This marks the launch of the IAEA’s Rays of Hope for Childhood Cancer, under the wider IAEA Rays of Hope initiative. Rays of Hope has expanded life-saving cancer care to thousands of patients in LMICs around the world since launching in 2022. Securing more than €90 million already from dedicated donors and partners, including governments mobilizing national resources, has helped close the gap in global radiation medicine. Building on this impact, the IAEA is working with St. Jude to expand the initiative to focus on the gap in childhood cancer care.

    “Limited access to specialized care for children with cancer has a negative impact on their chances to be cured,” said Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, MD, St. Jude executive vice president and director of St. Jude Global. “Significant gaps in the quality of radiotherapy services exist in LMICs when compared to what is routine practice across high-income countries. This effort with IAEA will help strengthen the national capacity to treat children with cancer, and increase access to the vital diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy that will improve the survival rate and quality of life for children affected by cancers where these treatments play a prominent role.”

    Following today’s signing, the first phase of the Rays of Hope for Childhood Cancer initiative will focus on jointly developing technical products and guidance documents—referred to as Global Goods—and organizing a series of events to support their effective adoption and use by countries. Addressing childhood cancer is a multifaceted challenge requiring a comprehensive approach where the IAEA and St. Jude play key roles. It involves complex procedures that require sophisticated decision-making and highly technical skills that require specialized training. For paediatric radiotherapy specialists, partnership trainings and Global Goods will reduce knowledge gaps and enhance the quality of care their patients receive.

    IAEA

    The IAEA has over 60 years of experience supporting countries in the fight against cancer, including childhood cancer. Through its Human Health Programme, the IAEA has helped countries around the world to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease by developing and applying nuclear and radiation techniques. Its medical expertise across nutrition, radiology, nuclear medicine, radiobiology, radiation oncology, medical physics and dosimetry has advanced cancer care capacities through coordinated research projects, educational materials, e-learning modules, curricula, guidance documents, scientific publications, international codes of practice, databases, quality assurance activities, audit services, databases, the Human Health Campus and the implementation of the Technical Cooperation Programme. Through its Technical Cooperation Programme, it helps countries strengthen cancer care by providing equipment, training and technical assistance in diagnostic imaging, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy. Operating across four global regions, the programme tailors support to local needs and promotes regional collaboration.

    The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, launched in 2022, builds on this work to accelerate access to radiotherapy and medical imaging in low-resource settings. Through Rays of Hope the IAEA promotes comprehensive cancer care where it is needed most and has designated regional anchor centres to serve as knowledge and capacity building hubs for radiation medicine.

    St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

    St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, is a global leader in the research and treatment of childhood cancer, sickle cell disease and other life-threatening pediatric diseases. St. Jude is the only National Cancer Institute–designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments developed at St. Jude have helped push the U.S. childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to 80% since the hospital opened in 1962. St. Jude is extending its mission to help more children around the world. In 2018, St. Jude and World Health Organization launched the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer to increase survival rates from 20% to 60% by 2030 for six of the most common forms of childhood cancer. The St. Jude Global Alliance is a global network with a shared vision of improving care and increasing survival rates of children with cancer and blood disorders worldwide. To learn more, visit stjude.org, read the St. Jude Progress blog, and follow St. Jude on social media @stjuderesearch.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report recommends national reform over zonal pricing in UK electricity market A new report released today by the University of Aberdeen strongly advises against adopting zonal pricing in the UK electricity market, urging policymakers instead to focus on national market reform and investment in grid infrastructure.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The study cautions that now is not the time to disrupt grid architecture, market structure and introduce uncertainty, given the scale of investment needed in generation and grid infrastructure.

    A new report released today by the University of Aberdeen strongly advises against adopting zonal pricing in the UK electricity market, urging policymakers instead to focus on national market reform and investment in grid infrastructure.
    The study, entitled ‘Should Zonal Pricing be introduced in the UK?’ is co-authored by Professor John Underhill, the University’s Interdisciplinary Director for Energy Transition, and independent energy analyst Matthew Porter, and evaluates whether zonal pricing aligns with the UK Government’s energy and Net Zero objectives.
    Zonal energy pricing sees the cost of electricity determined by regional supply and demand, meaning energy prices would vary depending on where the energy is generated and where it is consumed rather than being dictated by the current energy price cap.
    Advocates claim that Zonal Pricing has the potential to reduce costs for regions with abundant green energy sources, such as Scotland, however the report concludes that introducing zonal pricing would create investment uncertainty and risk deterring vital private sector capital, which is essential to meeting Net Zero targets.
    Unpredictable revenues and costs would make raising both debt and equity capital more difficult and expensive — costs that would ultimately be passed on to consumers.

    The UK now has a challenging objective: to rewire the country and deliver an expanded electricity grid fit for a renewable future.” Professor John Underhill, the University of Aberdeen’s Interdisciplinary Director for Energy Transition

    “In the UK our electricity grid has an evolutionary history, from local to national and from coal to gas,” said Professor Underhill. “The UK now has a challenging objective: to rewire the country and deliver an expanded electricity grid fit for a renewable future.”
    The study cautions that now is not the time to disrupt grid architecture, market structure and introduce uncertainty, given the scale of investment needed in generation and grid infrastructure. Such changes, the report argues, could delay progress and undermine the policy direction.
    Instead, the University recommends that the Review of Electricity Market Arrangements (REMA) discount zonal pricing as a viable solution, prioritise reforming the national market system to support the energy transition, and investment in the grid.
    “A changing mix of generation types will inevitably require fresh investment in infrastructure,” added Mr Porter. “Ensuring an investment landscape attractive to this new capital will require stable and predictable forecasts of revenues and costs.”
    The report reinforces the importance of policy stability and clarity in achieving the UK’s long-term ambition to become a Clean Energy Super Power and meet its net zero emissions objectives.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Here’s how First Nations landholders can share the benefits of the NSW energy transition

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Heidi Norman, Professor of Australian and Aboriginal history, Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture, Convenor: Indigenous Land & Justice Research Group, UNSW Sydney

    Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council staff and members with researchers and actuaries from Finity Consulting. UNSW Indigenous Land and Justice Research Group

    The shift to clean, renewable sources of energy presents a rare opportunity for First Nations people, not only as energy users but as landholders.

    We wanted to explore the potential for First Nations land in the energy transition across New South Wales. The transition is well underway, but the pace must accelerate to meet state targets for 2030 and beyond.

    Our new report found the state’s 121 Aboriginal Land Councils have an opportunity to partner with renewable developers and build solar, wind or transmission lines on their own land.

    Such projects can offer jobs during construction and a smaller number of ongoing positions, as well as annual payments. This is why farmers and other landholders often look to renewable projects as a reliable source of income.

    To date, the 447 square kilometres of the state owned by Aboriginal Land Councils has not been actively used in the energy transition. As a result, First Nations involvement in the transition has been limited and the renewables boom has not flowed to these communities.

    Making this opportunity a reality will require collaboration with governments, electricity networks and industry, as well as policy support.

    The role of land councils

    In NSW, land councils have been operating since 1983, the year the state government passed laws recognising Aboriginal land rights. About a third of Australia’s First Nations people live in NSW.

    Each land council is governed by Aboriginal members, and they are located in most country towns and across Sydney.

    Land councils have a statutory responsibility “to improve, protect and foster the best interests of all Aboriginal persons within the Council’s area and other persons who are members of the Council”. These councils manage their land to protect culture and heritage.

    Generating wealth through the development of Aboriginal land is a key objective of Aboriginal land rights in NSW.

    Aboriginal goals in the energy transition

    Following analysis of the land potentially available to renewable energy projects, our research moved on to exploring what Aboriginal land councils want from the energy transition.

    We ran workshops with three land councils: Tibooburra in the far northwest, Hay in the southwest and Brewarrina in the northwest of the state. Each had expressed interest in renewable developments and concern around exposure to extreme weather events.

    In these workshops, land council members told us about their priorities for energy.

    Reliable energy was a major concern for Tibooburra, far from the main electricity grid.

    For Brewarrina on the Barwon River, energy security in the face of heatwaves and floods was front of mind. High energy bills in housing ill-equipped for extreme weather was another big issue.

    Members of Hay land council told us they wanted ownership and equity share in renewable energy projects. Their goal was to create opportunities to live, work and care for Country.

    The Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council (brown) is found in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone, while Tibooburra (green) and Brewarrina (orange) land councils are more remote.
    Norman, H., et al. (2025) APPI Policy Insights Paper, CC BY-NC-SA

    Renewable energy, First Nations land

    Aboriginal land councils own and manage about 450 square km of land in NSW. Resolving outstanding land claims would further expand the estate.

    Our analysis reveals current land holdings could host up to 11 gigawatts of solar or 1.6 gigawatts of onshore wind energy projects.

    But several barriers stand in the way. There are long delays in the processing of Aboriginal land claims and the return of vacant Crown Land. This limits options for land councils to contribute to renewable energy development.

    Realising opportunities in the energy transition

    Our case studies demonstrate the potential for Aboriginal land to support the state government’s renewable energy efforts. This can also bring economic and social benefits to Aboriginal communities. But the opportunities will vary from place to place.

    In areas at the edge of the grid, such as Tibooburra and Brewarrina, Aboriginal land could help meet regional energy demand through small to mid-scale wind and solar projects, microgrids and batteries.

    Hay Local Aboriginal Land Council, on the other hand, is in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone. This is an area where new renewable energy projects, storage facilities and high-voltage transmission lines are already being constructed. Land under claim here holds huge economic potential for both mid-scale renewable energy (solar installations feeding into the local electricity network) and large-scale renewable energy projects.

    Unlocking the power of renewable energy zones (NSW EnergyCo)

    How can authorities support land councils?

    At present, local Aboriginal Land Councils need expertise and resources to turn this opportunity into reality.

    Our report identified four broad areas for policy reform:

    1. Build capacity for land councils to manage clean energy opportunities and risks on their landholdings. This could include establishing a dedicated government team to support interested land councils, and funding land councils to engage expertise and develop renewable energy projects.

    2. Enable collaboration between electricity network distributors and land councils to set up microgrids. One case study, Tibooburra Local Aboriginal Land Council had land suitable for a microgrid and battery to support the energy provider. But early-stage support is needed to develop such projects.

    3. Pilot programs to develop mid- and large-scale renewable energy projects on land council holdings. A partnership between lands councils and planning authorities could demonstrate a model for arranging approval processes. Programs by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency have proven successful in the past. We recommend funding these organisations to run a program for land council-developer partnerships in large-scale renewables.

    4. Strengthen recognition of Aboriginal rights to unlock the renewable energy potential of Aboriginal land. This could include expediting land claims and land transfers and providing incentives for cooperation between land councils and Traditional Owners.

    The next five years will be crucial for NSW’s renewable energy transition. Getting the foundations right now could empower Aboriginal landholders and their regional communities to get the most out of this once-in-a-generation opportunity.

    Heidi Norman receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Australian Public Policy Institute, Boundless and the NSW Government.

    Saori Miyake receives funding from Australian Public Policy Institute and Boundless for this project.

    Sarah Niklas receives funding from the Australian Public Policy Institute and Boundless for this project.

    Therese Apolonio receives funding from Australian Public Policy Institute, Boundless and the NSW Government.

    – ref. Here’s how First Nations landholders can share the benefits of the NSW energy transition – https://theconversation.com/heres-how-first-nations-landholders-can-share-the-benefits-of-the-nsw-energy-transition-259702

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy – Oil discovery in the Johan Castberg area in the Barents Sea – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    30 JUNE 2025 – Equinor has struck oil in exploration well 7720/7-DD-1H, Drivis Tubåen, on the Johan Castberg field in the Barents Sea.

    The well was drilled in the Drivis structure on the Johan Castberg field in the Barents Sea. According to preliminary estimates the size of the discovery is 9-15 million barrels of oil.

    Grete Birgitte Haaland, Equinor’s senior vice president for Exploration & Production North

    “Only a short time after Johan Castberg came on stream and is producing at full capacity, we have made a new discovery that can provide additional reserves for the field. The Johan Castberg volume base originally estimated at 450–650 million barrels, our clear ambition is to increase the reserves by a another 250–550 million barrels. 

    “To realise this, we are planning six new exploration wells and continuous exploration activity. At the same time, we will develop Isflak as a rapid field expansion with planned start-up in 2028,” says Grete Birgitte Haaland, Equinor’s senior vice president for Exploration & Production North.

    The oil was proven in a new segment called the Tubåen formation 1769 metres below the seabed in 345 metres of water. The well was drilled by the Transocean Enabler drilling rig as an exploratory extension from a production well. The licensees will consider tie-in of the discovery to the Johan Castberg field.

    The Barents Sea is the least explored ocean area on the Norwegian continental shelf. With the Johan Castberg’s production facilities in place, it becomes more attractive to explore the neighbouring areas. Going forward, two rigs will drill both production wells and new exploration wells in the areas around Johan Castberg and Goliat. Equinor will drill one to two exploration wells annually around Johan Castberg.

    On 17 June, the field reached a plateau and is now producing about 220,000 barrels of oil per day. Every three to four days, a loaded tanker now departs from Johan Castberg.

    Facts

    Drivis Tubåen is the fourteenth exploration well in production licence 532. The licence was awarded in the 20th licensing round in 2009.
    Transocean Enabler is now continuing drilling operations on the Johan Castberg field in production licence 532 for Equinor.
    The partners in the Johan Castberg licence are operator Equinor (46.3 percent), Vår Energi (30 percent) and Petoro (23.7 percent).

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI: Haffner Energy Reports Annual Results for Fiscal Year 2024-2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Haffner Energy Reports Annual Results for Fiscal Year 2024-2025

    Strategic milestones were reached, opening up the prospect of a commercial and economic ramp-up in the current financial year

    Vitry-le-François, France – June 30, 2025, 08:00am (CEST)

    • 2024-2025, a year of milestones demonstrating Haffner Energy‘s technological maturity: commissioning of the Marolles showcase site and green hydrogen production kick-off; signature of a first contract essential to the development of a hydrogen, electricity, and biochar production unit at the Corbat Group site in Glovelier, Switzerland; new strategic partnerships with recognized international players, particularly in the SAF industry;
    • Launch of a capital increase1 that resulted, after the close of the fiscal year, in a €7M fundraising with widening of the free float to almost 25%;
    • Net cash available of €559k at 03/31/2025 and a significantly reduced cash-burn rate, thanks to the ramp-up of the cash preservation plan initiated in November 2023;
    • EBITDA* improved significantly to -€10,011k, driven by revenue returning to positive at €378k and cost reductions, and a net loss of -€12,311k for the year ended 03/31/2025;
    • A consolidated 2025-2026 commercial outlook (total pipeline of €1.55Bn and €388M weighted pipeline2 at the end of March 2025) and a confirmed EBITDA-breakeven target at 03/31/2026.

    HAFFNER ENERGY (ISIN code: FR0014007ND6 – Ticker: ALHAF), just published its consolidated annual results at 03/31/2025, as approved on 06/27/2025 by the Board of Directors. On this occasion, the Company provided an update on its progress and outlook.

    Philippe HAFFNER, Co-founder and CEO of Haffner Energy said:

    “The 2024-2025 financial year is in continuity with the path we embarked on back in the second half of 2023. After launching new offers to expand our addressable market beyond hydrogen and achieving a significant increase in our project portfolio, we continue to roll out our roadmap. This year, we have carried out structuring projects that bring us closer to our objective of profitable growth: first, we have set up an industrial-scale showcase site in Marolles presenting all our technologies, whether in operation or still in development – seemingly the first site in the world to produce green hydrogen from solid biomass; this decisive element for the conversion of our project pipeline into contracts has already enabled us to sign a first contract for the installation of a hydrogen, electricity, and biochar production unit in Switzerland. To support our development, we have also continued to strengthen our network of partnerships with leading players, such as LanzaJet, LanzaTech, Atoba, and Luxaviation for the SAF market.

    In terms of financial results, although the conversion of our project pipeline into contracts had not yet materialized at 03/31/2025 and we remain in a loss-making position, we have recorded an improvement in our EBITDA thanks to the cost-cutting efforts undertaken to preserve our cash. With the first significant contracts expected to be signed, the 2025-2026 financial year should enable us to achieve our target of breakeven EBITDA by March 31, 2026.

    The capital increase launched at the end of the financial year, to which the family holding company Haffner Participation contributed €950k, resulted in a €7M fundraising in early April 2025. It will enable us to support the Company’s development. The success of this operation is due in particular to the commitment of most of our historical shareholders and to the arrival of new investors. We would like to thank them for their confidence in our project and our prospects, despite the recent turbulence on the Haffner Energy stock market.”

    I. 2024-2025: ADVANCES ILLUSTRATE HAFFNER ENERGY’S TECHNOLOGICAL MATURITY

    During the FY 2024-2025, Haffner Energy took crucial steps to accelerate its commercial and industrial development, with the creation of the Marolles showcase site and the signing of major partnership agreements, particularly in the SAF industry.

    Operational commissioning of the Marolles hydrogen and renewable gas production, testing and training center: a strategic priority for the year

    During the period, the attention of the Haffner Energy team was particularly focused on the installation and commissioning of a showcase site for the Company’s technologies and expertise in the Vitry-Marolles business park (Marne County), near its headquarters. Started in late 2023, the development of this production, testing and training center unfolded in several stages: after archaeological excavations, site preparation and equipment assembly, the center entered the renewable gas (syngas) production phase on June 18, 2024 (cf. 06/20/2024 press release). Equipped with new-generation equipment and intended to operate continuously 8,000 hours per year, this site was inaugurated on November 22, 2024, during Industry Week (cf. 11/22/2024 press release and press kit).

    After obtaining regulatory approvals and installing additional equipment, the team dedicated to this project reached a strategic milestone for Haffner Energy’s industrial and commercial development with, in February 2025, the commissioning of mobility-grade green hydrogen production (cf. 02/26/2025 press releases). Green hydrogen produced as part of the activities on the Marolles site – 120 tonnes/year – is to be commercialized. Haffner Energy already signed an offtake Memorandum of Understanding on December 16, 2024, with a French operator specializing in hydrogen removal and resale in order to decarbonize mobility and industry.

    This site now allows the Company’s customers and prospects to test the range of possibilities offered by Haffner Energy technologies at full-scale and with their own biomass: production of “super green” gas and hydrogen, co-production of electricity, production and/or gasification of biocarbon and/or biochar. This site is also intended to train their teams in operating and maintaining the equipment.

    This project, which has resulted in the world’s first known site producing hydrogen from solid biomass residues, was made possible thanks to the support and commitment of the French public authorities through various local and national entities. It has thus benefited from more than €1.5M in public funding3, demonstrating the trust placed in Haffner Energy to contribute to the green reindustrialization strategy led by the French government.

    While the success of this structuring project attests to Haffner Energy’s technological and industrial maturity, it will also demonstrate the economic and ecological relevance of its technologies. Indeed, compared to alternative technologies, water electrolysis in particular, the “super green” hydrogen produced by Haffner Energy through its thermolysis technology is especially competitive due to the low cost of the primary energy used (biomass), combined with excellent energy efficiency (+ 75% for installations > 20MW). In addition, this hydrogen is carbon negative when co-produced biochar is used to sequester biogenic carbon.

    This showcase site is therefore a decisive tool to realize the Company’s commercial potential. In the short term, it will allow several contracts awaiting signature to move forward, as evidenced by the recent signing of a first contract for the construction of a hydrogen, electricity, and biochar production unit from forestry residues on the Corbat Group site in Glovelier, Switzerland, for H2bois SA. This unit, which is expected to be commissioned in July 2026, represents a total order value for Haffner Energy that is likely to reach €8.3M including options (cf. 03/12/2025 press release).

    2024-2025: new strategic partnerships with leading players

    The growing maturity of Haffner Energy’s technologies in their various applications has enabled the Company to amplify the process of building strategic partnerships already underway and to gain the trust of leading players. During this past year, new agreements have mainly occurred in the SAF industry, the Company’s priority segment given its market potential.

    Haffner Energy established a first partnership with the American company LanzaJet in June 2024 in the context of its SAF production plant project, Paris-Vatry SAF (cf. 06/06/2024 press release). A global leader in ATJ (Alcohol-to-Jet) technology, LanzaJet is a remarkably advanced player in the industry with more than 90 SAF projects in its portfolio. It was named in 2024 by Time Magazine as one of the “100 Most Influential Companies”. Its investors include the Aéroport de Paris (ADP) group, British Airways, Airbus, Southwest Airlines and Microsoft, among others.

    A key agreement was also signed in September 2024 with IðunnH2, the green hydrogen and sustainable e-fuel project developer in charge of Iceland’s largest e-SAF production plant project (65,000-tonne capacity). Located near Keflavík International Airport, the site is to be commissioned in 2028, using biogenic carbon from on-site biocarbon gasification with Haffner Energy’s patented technology. This solution was chosen by IðunnH2 for its ability to significantly reduce costs and increase productivity in the e-SAF production process. Indeed, in Iceland, the limited volumes of local biomass mean low access to biogenic carbon, an essential component of SAF. Haffner Energy’s supplies of solid biocarbon, gasified on-site by its Gasiliner®, will provide a competitive and flexible alternative to the usual option of biogenic CO2, a gas that is expensive to capture, transport and store. (cf. 09/02/2024 press release).

    Keen to amplify the scope of their first partnership, Haffner Energy and LanzaJet announced another partnership agreement in January 2025 (cf. 01/28/2025 press release), accompanied by LanzaTech, the developer of a differentiating solution for transforming syngas into ethanol and a LanzaJet shareholder. The Nasdaq-listed company is a recognized leader in commercial carbon management solutions.

    The objective of the tripartite agreement is to explore joint projects for the conversion of biomass residues into sustainable aviation fuel across the entire SAF production value chain by combining the technologies of the three companies. It also involves exploring a variety of opportunities, including the development of industrial facilities, fuel purchase agreements, and joint technology licenses, as well as financial support and/or investment in specific SAF projects.

    Haffner Energy also entered into a partnership agreement with ATOBA Energy in February 2025 (cf. 02/20/2025 press release), a SAF aggregator whose purpose is to solve the financial dilemma between airlines and producers by allowing different players to benefit from long-term SAF contracts at optimized prices, in particular through off-takes from diversified producers and technologies. This partnership should facilitate the financing of Haffner Energy’s SAF projects by removing the barriers of this value chain, as production plant projects struggle with signing the necessary contracts to guarantee investment returns. The identification of Haffner Energy by ATOBA Energy as a strategic player in the SAF ecosystem is another testament to the competitiveness of its technological solutions.

    Lastly, after the end of the fiscal year, Haffner Energy announced a partnership agreement with global business aviation leader Luxaviation to accelerate the production and promotion of SAF. Luxaviation is to take an active role in SAF Zero (cf. 06/18/2024 press release), an initiative launched by Haffner Energy in September 2024 (cf. 09/12/2024 press release).

    In addition, Haffner Energy has pursued its partnership approach aimed at diversifying its sustainable biomass supply sources. In France, a new agreement was signed in August 2024 with Bambbco, leader in the development of the bamboo industry in France (cf. 09/24/2024 press release). The partnership aims to improve the energy use of biomass, particularly on marginal lands and semi-desert areas, by creating local ecosystems for SAF projects. In a similar fashion, Haffner Energy had signed a partnership early 2024 with the US company Hexas, specialized in the production of raw plant-based materials from its regenerative crop: XanoGrass™ (cf. 03/13/2024 press release).

    II. SUCCESSFULLY RAISING THE FUNDS NEEDED TO FINANCE THE COMPANY’S GROWTH

    Shortly before FY 2024-2025 ended, Haffner Energy launched a capital increase through the issue of shares with share subscription warrants (ABSA), while maintaining shareholders’ preferential subscription rights (DPS).

    This operation’s final completion, materialized by the settlement-delivery of the shares on April 4, 2025, i.e. just after the close of the fiscal year, enabled the company to raise €7M and expand its free float, which now stands at almost 25% of the capital.

    As announced in June 2024, and within the framework of the authorizations granted by the Annual General Meeting of September 12, 2024, Haffner Energy raised funds to accelerate the Company’s development. Following a decision by the Board of Directors at its meeting of March 12, 2025, this took the form of a €7M capital increase through the issue of ABSAs with shareholders’ preferential subscription rights (DPS).

    A two-stage transaction: €7M through the issue of ABSAs, potentially doubled if the warrants are exercised within 18 months.

    As a reminder, the operation had the following characteristics:

    – Transaction eligible for the IR-PME, PEA and PEA-PME, FIP-FCPI and Article 150-0 B ter schemes
    – Allocation of preferential subscription rights (DPS): on the basis of 1 preferential subscription right for 1 share held on 03/14/2025
    – Negotiability of DPS from 03/17/2025 to 03/26/2025 inclusive
    – Subscription ratio: 9 ABSA for 23 Existing Shares
    – Subscription price per ABSA: €0.40, i.e. a 59% discount to the closing price on 03/12/2025, the day before the transaction was announced (€0.98).
    – ABSA subscription period from 03/19/2025 to 03/28/2025 inclusive
    – Final completion of the issue recorded on 04/04/2025, for an amount of €6,995,497.60, of which €1,748,874.40 par value and €5,246,623.20 issue premium, bringing the Company’s share capital to €6,218,220.10.
    – Settlement-delivery of the ABSA: 04/04/2025
    – Trading of New Shares (ISIN: FR0014007ND6 – Ticker: ALHAF) and BSAs (ISIN FR001400Y4X9) on Euronext Growth in Paris since 04/04/2025Trading of New Shares (ISIN: FR0014007ND6 – Ticker: ALHAF) and BSAs (ISIN FR001400Y4X9) on Euronext Growth in Paris since 04/04/2025
    – Terms and conditions of exercise of the warrants attached to the ABSAs (on the basis of 1 warrant per New Share): as from 04/04/2026 for a period of 6 months, 3 warrants entitling the holder to subscribe to one New Share at a price of €1.20. Exercise of all the warrants would ultimately represent a potential capital increase of €6,995,498 gross.

    This operation benefited from the renewed support of historical shareholders (Haffner Participation, VICAT, EUREFI) and new investors, who had committed to participate in the transaction up to €5.5M.

    It was carried out with the assistance of Gilbert Dupont, as global coordinator and bookrunner, and CIC Market Solutions as custodian.

    Post-transaction, a modified capital structure and a near-doubling of the free float

    The gross capital increase recorded by the Board of Directors at its meeting on April 1, 2025 amounted to €6,995,497.60, including €1,748,874.40 nominal value and €5,246,623.60 share premium, and resulted in the issuance of 17,488,744 ABSAs at a subscription price of €0.40 per share, including €0.10 nominal value and €0.30 issue premium (cf. press releases of 2/04/2025 and 4/04/2025).

    Following the issuance of ABSA, Haffner Energy’s share capital was increased to €6,218,220.10 divided into 62,182,201 ordinary shares with a nominal value of €0.10.

    The operation led to a change in the breakdown of capital and voting rights. In particular, the capital increase led to a significant increase in the free float (from 12.83% to 24.75%), which should ultimately prove positive for the share’s attractiveness.

    Table: Impact of the ABSA issue on the breakdown of share capital and Differential Voting Rights

      Before Capital Increase After Capital Increase
      Number of shares % of Capital Number of DVR % of exercisable DVRs Number of shares % of Capital Number of DVR % of exercisable DVRs
    Haffner Participation 17 824 000 39,88% 35 648 000 45,15% 20 199 000 32,48% 38 023 000 39,42%
    Eurefi 5 741 600 12,85% 11 483 200 14,54% 8 311 600 13,37% 14 053 200 14,57%
    Sous total Concert 23 565 600 52,73% 47 131 200 59,69% 28 510 600 45,85% 52 076 200 53,99%
    Vicat 1 175 000 2,63% 1 175 000 1,49% 3 675 000 5,91% 3 675 000 3,81%
    Eren Industries 1 000 000 2,24% 2 000 000 2,53% 1 391 302 2,24% 2 391 302 2,48%
    Kouros 11 826 112 26,46% 21 920 542 27,76% 11 826 112 19,02% 21 920 542 22,73%
    HRS 1 000 000 2,24% 1 000 000 1,27% 1 000 000 1,61% 1 000 000 1,04%
    Flottant 5 736 238 12,83% 5 736 238 7,26% 15 388 680 24,75% 15 388 680 15,95%
    Self-holding 390 507 0,87% – 0,00% 390 507 0,63% – 0,00%
    TOTAL 44 693 457 100% 78 962 980 100% 62 182 201 100% 96 451 724 100%

    For the record, a shareholder who did not take part in the operation and previously held 1% of the capital saw a dilutive effect of 0.72% applied to his position.

    After the operation, stock price in turmoil 

    Mechanically, and all other things being equal, Haffner Energy’s share price should have fallen by around 28%, in line with the dilutive effect. However, following the capital increase, the share experienced unexpectedly high trading volumes, due first and foremost to massive and disorderly selling, leading to a drop in the share price to a low of €0.25 on 04/18/2025. Since then, the stock price has begun to rise again (to €0.35 on 06/23/2025). Trade is still occurring in very high volumes, without Haffner Energy having any specific information on their origin.

    III. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL RESULTS OF LOW SIGNIFICANCE, MARKED BY EFFORTS TO IMPROVE EBITDA AND PRESERVE CASH

    The consolidated financial statements presented below, for which audit procedures are in progress, were approved by the Board of Directors at its 06/27/2025 meeting. The scope of consolidation and accounting methods used at March 31, 2025, are unchanged from the previous year: Haffner Energy’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS; the only consolidated subsidiary is Jacquier.

    In terms of consolidated financial results, FY 2024-2025 displays a similar profile to the previous one, albeit with a few changes.

    In thousands of euros 03.31.25
    (12 months)    		 03.31.24
    (12 months)
    Net sales
    Other income    		 378
    79    		 -157
    69
    EBITDA -10,011 -12,791
    Operating result -12,275 -10,263
    Net income -12,311 -9,935
    Shareholders’ equity 14,300 26,768
    Cash available 5594 11,042

    At 03/31/025, consolidated revenue remained amounted to €378k. It mainly comprised sales of boiler-making equipment by Jacquier and various services and studies by Haffner Energy.

    As a reminder, consolidated revenue was negative for FY 2023-2024 (-157 k€) due to the impact of the termination of the R-Hynoca contract in December 20235 (cf. 14/12/2023 press release).

    Confirmed EBIDTA improvement thanks to cost-cutting measures

    Extending the trend of the first half of the year, EBITDA6continued to improve to -€10,011k, under the combined effect of the decrease in purchases consumed (-15%), personnel costs (-17%) and external expenses (-23%), resulting from the full impact of the cash preservation plan initiated in November 2023.

    Operating result nevertheless deteriorated (-€12,275k at 03/31/2025, down €2,012k compared to 03/31/2024). This change is mainly due to the reversal of provisions for losses on completion from the previous year in the amount of €5,787k.

    As of 03/31/2025, consolidated net income stood at -€12,311k, registering a larger loss than last year (-€9,935k at 03/31/2024).

    After appropriation of net income, shareholders’ equity amounted to €14,300k, excluding the impact of the capital increase which will be taken into account in FY 2025-2026 due to its completion after the closing date.

    Haffner Energy’s other assets and liabilities are as follows:

    On the assets side, non-current assets (€11,250k, or +€309k) were almost stable, mainly composed of intangible assets representing the Company’s intellectual property (€8,105k as of 03/31/2025 compared to €7,843k as of 03/31/2024). Current assets, on the other hand, contracted significantly to €22,456k (-€12,321k), mainly due to:

    • the consumption of a significant portion of cash (€559k as of 03/31/2025 compared to €11,042k as of 03/31/2024).
    • the decrease in other current assets (advances paid to suppliers for €2,464k and Research Tax Credit for €941k).

    Conversely, inventories and outstandings increased, reaching €13,432k at the end of the financial year (+€3,287k) mainly due to the installation of the Marolles site.

    On the liabilities side, shareholders’ equity amounted to €14,300k at 03/31/2025 (a decrease of €12,468k) mainly due to the allocation of the year’s profit to reserves. It should be noted that the capital increase is not taken into account as of 03/31/2025.
    Non-current liabilities decreased slightly (-€268k at 03/31/2025 to €5,833k). This change takes into account the €500k RDI loan received from Bpifrance in March 2025.
    Current liabilities, meanwhile, increased +€725k to €13,574k at 31/03/2025. This change is mainly due to the net increase in provisions ongoing litigations (+€882k to €1,116k at 31/03/2025).

    It should be noted that, as the proceedings with Sara and Carbonloop are still in progress, the balance sheet position of previous years has been maintained. In addition, a provision has been booked in respect of employee-related litigation.

    Net cash position necessitates fundraising despite reduced cash-burn rate

    As of 03/31/2025, net cash and cash equivalents amounted to €559k.

    As a reminder, the main measures of the cash preservation plan initiated since November 2023 and implemented during the year have focused on:

    • Overheads in addition to reinforced budget management and expense control measures, the company reduced fees, cancelled non-essential service or subcontracting contracts whose tasks could be handled internally, changed payroll managers, renegotiated the commercial terms of other contracts, and limited travel and related expenses to essentials.
      • Payroll: in addition to the freeze on recruitment and replacements, as well as the absence of a general salary increase over FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-2025, Haffner Energy implemented a targeted redundancy plan in the summer of 2024, resulting in the loss of nine (9) positions. Subsequent to the balance sheet date, a redundancy plan for economic reasons was launched at SAS Jacquier. This redundancy plan resulted in the departure of three (3) employees from the workforce on 06/16/2025.
      • Leased surface areas: these have been reduced in both Nantes and Paris, thanks to the relocation of the Paris offices in January 2025 and the termination of the lease on the 1st floor of the Nantes offices.
      • Postponement of non-priority investments, such as the deployment of a new ERP system (€1.3M).
      • Renegotiations with strategic partners and service providers to review certain delivery schedules and invoice payment deadlines (€3M)
      • Deferrals of payments illustrating the commitment of all internal stakeholders to the company, such as the deferral of the payment of the individual portion of employees’ target-based bonuses and the payment of directors’ fees; lastly, we note the waiver by the two executives and founding investors, Philippe and Marc Haffner, of the variable portion of their remuneration for FY 2023-2024, as well as the temporary two-stage reduction of part of their fixed remuneration for FY 2023-2024 and FY 2024-2025. These amounts have been provisioned in the financial statements.

    Thanks to the implementation of these cost-saving measures, the average monthly cash-burn rate was significantly reduced during the year, gradually falling from €1.4M at the end of 2023 to €1M at the end of 2024, to about €0.6M per month in Q1 2025 (calendar year), excluding income and non-recurring expenses.

    In order to ensure that the Company would have the necessary resources to pursue its development until the expected ramp-up in revenue, and as announced as early as June 2024, Haffner Energy therefore initiated the above-mentioned capital increase during the year (see page 4).          

    Having carried out a review of its liquidity risk, the Company considers that it will have sufficient cash to finance its activities until at least 03/31/2026.

    This cash outlook takes into account:

    – The €7M capital increase finally subscribed on April 4, 2025, after the closing of FY 2024-2025;

    – The receipt, in March 2025, of a €500k innovation grant from Bpifrance (RDI loan) for the hydrogen production, testing and training center project in Marolles (Marl’Hy);

    – Cost reductions undertaken by the Company (see page 8) that cap the average monthly cash burn-rate, excluding non-recurring income and expenses, at around €600k (compared with €1M at the end of 2024).

    In the 1st half of the year, this is subject to the successful completion of the endurance test at the Marolles site and the signature of the resulting contracts, as well as to the obtaining, during the year, of additional financing linked to the equipment at the Marolles site.

    IV. PROJECTS AND PROSPECTS: FOUR NEW OPERATIONAL PRIORITIES

    For the current financial year, the Haffner Energy team, boosted by the confidence and support from its business partners, shareholders and institutional ecosystem, has set four new operational priorities: accelerating the conversion of its pipeline, moving forward with the implementation of targeted strategic projects, continuing to structure its action, and simplifying its governance.

    Accelerating pipeline conversion

    At the end of FY 2024-2025, Haffner Energy had an estimated total sales pipeline of €1.55Bn compared to €1.4Bn at 03/31/2024, confirming a high level of commercial activity due to the various initiatives undertaken since mid-2023: launch of a high-capacity offer for the renewable gas market (syngas) and a SAF offer; business development in the United States through the creation of a subsidiary; increased presence in various US trade fairs dedicated to renewable energies and hydrogen7.

    On the occasion of its capital increase, and in order to offer a clearer and more representative view of its business and prospects, the Company decided to adopt a communication based on a weighted sales pipeline** instead of medium-term annual revenue targets, as was previously practiced, as projects typically convert into backlog over a two-year cycle. This weighted pipeline is determined by applying a probability of success to the potential revenue of each project that counts in the sales pipeline

    At the end of March 2025, Haffner Energy’s weighted sales pipeline stood at €388M.

    Two contracts for hydrogen production equipment had been identified as likely to be signed following the start of hydrogen production at the Marolles site in February 2025 (cf. 02/26/2025 press release).

    The first of these is the H2bois project, for which Haffner Energy signed an initial contract on 03/12/2025, which is essential for the creation of this unit to produce hydrogen, electricity, and biochar from biomass at the Swiss Corbat group’s site (cf. 03/12/2025 press release). With delivery of the site scheduled for July 2026, orders for Haffner Energy are expected to be staggered between now and the end of FY 2025-2026.

    The second regards REFORMERS’ Renewable Energy Valley project in Alkmaar in the Netherlands. The latter was awarded the 2025 World Hydrogen Award, “Clean Project” category, May 22, 2025, in Rotterdam, thanks to the choice of HYNOCA® as the green hydrogen production technology included in the project.

    Advancing the implementation of a number of targeted strategic projects: R&D, Marolles, and commercial partnerships

    While growing the market for existing solutions is the priority for the current financial year, Haffner Energy has continued and will continue to invest time in Research & Development in order to offer its customers new or optimized solutions. The performance of its biomass thermolysis technology is indeed the source of the recognition enjoyed by the Group. In particular, before the end of FY 2024-2025, the Company was awarded the “Innovative Company” label by Bpifrance. This recognition enabled the company to welcome an FCPI fund to its capital.

    In April 2025, the Group presented a new line of production units, Hynoca® Flex 500 IG, capable of producing 12 tonnes per day of marketable green hydrogen for less than €3/kg without subsidies, and of generating profitable renewable electricity at peak times (cf. 24/04/2025 press release). Competitive with grey hydrogen and fossil fuels thanks to its energy efficiency of over 80%, this new solution offers all the flexibility of hydrogen and electricity cogeneration, enabling producers’ sites to manage random hydrogen demand and benefit from continuous operation without having to lock themselves into rigid off-take contracts.

    The current year’s priorities also include optimizing equipment at the strategic Marolles site, and in particular finalizing the installation of the Gasiliner® (cf. 11/22/2024 press release).

    The Haffner Energy team has also been working to advance the strategic Paris-Vatry SAF project. During FY 2024-2025, the Company finalized the creation of SPV (Special Project Vehicle) PARIS VATRY SAF SAS. In addition, Luxembourg-based Luxaviation, a global business aviation leader, confirmed its interest in playing an active role in spin-off SAF Zero at the International Paris Air Show this month. Luxaviation’s participation could take the form of financing the initial development of SAF activities, supporting strategy and global visibility, as well as off-take agreements in SAF Zero projects such as Paris-Vatry SAF (cf. 06/18/2025 press release).

    Finally, the FactorHy project of a first plant to assemble renewable gas and hydrogen production modules is still underway. Preliminary studies have been completed and detailed studies for the building permit application are continuing.

    Continuing to structure its action

    Having completed the creation of Haffner Energy Inc., an unconsolidated US subsidiary, in May 2024, Haffner Energy will continue to work on structuring its action and future developments with a view, in particular, to making effective progress in the SAF market. For current FY, the Company intends to launch SAF Zero, a spin-off designed to maximize its potential in this booming market (cf. 12/09/2024 press release and 18/06/2025 press releases).

    Simplifying its governance

    In addition, Haffner Energy has decided to simplify its corporate governance to enhance efficiency.

    At its meeting on 05/09/2025, the Board of Directors decided to propose the following to the 06/23/2025 Combined General Meeting of Shareholders:

    • a reduction in the number of Board members, with the early termination of the terms of office of Kouros France and Kouros SA, who also undertook to reduce their shareholding following the capital increase in which they did not wish to participate;
    • a partial renewal of the Board’s membership, to allow the entry of a new director representing the Luxembourg company Eren Industries, one of Haffner Energy’s industrial shareholders. A partner of Haffner Energy’s since the Company’s IPO, this recognized player in the energy transition is dedicated to technological innovation in the service of the natural resource economy. Eren Industries develops and invests in infrastructure projects, particularly in low-carbon energy production (hydrogen, biogas, biomethane, etc.), some of which could be projects of interest to Haffner Energy, and will provide the Board with all its sector expertise.
    • An update of the statutes simplifying the majority rules applicable to certain Board decisions, in line with common practice.

    All the resolutions were adopted at the June 23, 2025 General Shareholders’ Meeting.

    It should be noted that the Board of Directors has decided to reduce the attendance fees of independent directors as from the next financial year. Non-independent directors will not be remunerated.

    In addition, Mrs Bich Van Ngo and Mrs Sophie Dutordoir, independent directors, resigned from the Board at the close of the Annual General Meeting on 06/23/2025.

    Mr. Olivier Piron (Société E-Venture Management and Investment srl) was co-opted to the Board of Directors as an independent director at the close of the Board meeting of 06/27/2025.

    As a result, Haffner Energy’s Board of Directors is now composed of six (6) members, up from eight (8) previously:

    • Mr. Philippe Haffner, Chairman and CEO of Haffner Energy
    • Mr. Marc Haffner, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Haffner Energy
    • Mrs. Francesca Ecsery, independent
    • Société E-Venture Management and Investment srl, with Mr. Olivier Piron as permanent representative
    • Europe and Growth, with Mr. Xavier Dethier as permanent representative
    • Eren Industries SA, with Mr. David Corchia as permanent representative

    Next events

    Shareholder webinar : July 1, 2025 – register here

    Annual General Meeting : September 10, 2025

    More detailed financial information on the annual accounts at 03/31/2025 is available on the website www.haffner-energy.com.

    About Haffner Energy

    Haffner Energy designs, manufactures, supplies, and operates biofuel and hydrogen solutions using biomass residues. Its innovative, patented thermolysis technology produces Sustainable Aviation Fuel, as well as renewable gas, hydrogen, and methanol. The company also contributes to regenerating the planet through the co-production of biogenic CO2 and biochar. A company co-founded 32 years ago by Marc and Philippe Haffner, Haffner Energy has been working from the outset to decarbonize industry and all forms of mobility, as well as governments and local communities. Haffner Energy is listed on Euronext Growth (ISIN code : FR0014007ND6 – Mnémonique : ALHAF).

    Investor relations

    investisseurs@haffner-energy.com

    Media relations        

    Laure BOURDON
    laure.bourdon@haffner-energy.com
    +33 (0) 7 87 96 35 15

    Glossary:

    The Company is now adopting a communication based on a weighted sales pipeline instead of medium-term annual revenue targets, as was previously practiced, as projects typically convert into backlog over a two-year cycle.

    * Pipeline designates a business opportunity when at least one of the following situations occurs:
    – a preliminary feasibility study for the installation of equipment is, or has been, carried out; or
    – a budget offer, or a preliminary business plan for the project, or a complete commercial offer including specifications, has been sent to the customer and Haffner Energy is awaiting its response; or
    – a letter of intent has been sent to Haffner Energy by the customer; or
    – Haffner Energy has received an invitation to participate and is part of a tender process.

    ** The weighted pipeline is determined by applying a probability of success to the potential sales of each project included in the total pipeline. Thus, given a total pipeline of projects worth €1.55Bn at March 31, 2025, the weighted pipeline at March 31, 2025 stood at €388M, with “hydrogen projects” now accounting for only 18% of the weighted pipeline.

    1 Subscription period for the Capital Increase closed on 03/29/2025, Settlement-Delivery on 04/04/2025.
    2 In order to offer a clearer and more representative view of its business and prospects, the Company is now adopting a communication based on a weighted sales pipeline instead of medium-term annual revenue targets, as was previously practiced, as projects typically convert into backlog over a two-year cycle. This weighted pipeline is determined by applying a probability of success to the potential revenue of each project that counts in the sales pipeline.

    3 Including an Innovation-Research and Development Loan (PIRD) in the amount of €500k granted by Bpifrance and received in early March 2025.
    4 Cash and cash equivalents at 03/31/2025 do not include the €7M fundraising, which was completed after closing on 04/04/2025
    5 The termination of the R-Hynoca contract was accompanied by a memorandum of understanding under which Haffner Energy will have to make two residual payments (€1M before 12/31/2025 and €0.85M before 12/31/2026).
    6 EBITDA corresponds to operating income before depreciation and amortization, impairment net of reversals of fixed assets and current assets, and before operating provisions net of reversals.
    7 Since January 2025, Haffner Energy has participated in Hyvolution Paris 2025, Bio360 Expo 2025 in Nantes, World Electrolysis Congress 2025 in Cologne, World Hydrogen Summit 2025 in Rotterdam, for example.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran Calls on UN to Recognize Israel and US as Initiators of “Aggression”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 30 (Xinhua) — Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi Abbas on Sunday called on the UN Security Council to recognize Israel and the United States as the initiators of “aggression” against Iran.

    In a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and UN Security Council President Caroline Rodriguez-Birkett, A. Araghchi called on the Council to shoulder its responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security, the official IRNA news agency reported.

    He accused Israel of deliberately targeting residential buildings, civilians and civilian infrastructure, calling the attacks a “flagrant violation” of the UN Charter and a “flagrant breach” of international law.

    A. Araghchi said that Israel and the United States also struck Iran’s nuclear facilities protected by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is a “gross violation of the UN Charter, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and IAEA documents and resolutions.”

    Iran’s Foreign Minister stressed that the UN Security Council must hold the “aggressors” accountable and take measures to prevent the repetition of such “crimes.”

    On June 13, Israel launched major airstrikes on several areas of Iran. Iran responded with several waves of missiles and drones targeting Israel.

    On June 22, the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear facilities. In response, Iran struck the American Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

    On June 24, after 12 days of fighting, a ceasefire was reached between Iran and Israel. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Deteriorating short-term outlook for east coast gas supply

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The east coast gas supply outlook for 2025 and 2026 has deteriorated despite an easing in gas prices in the second half of 2024, according to the ACCC’s latest gas inquiry report, released today.

    The report finds that there is a risk of shortfall in the fourth quarter of 2025 and throughout 2026 if Queensland LNG producers export all uncontracted gas.

    It is expected that southern states will need to continually rely on gas from Queensland as their local reserves deplete.

    There is no change to the medium-term outlook, with structural shortfalls on the east coast still projected from 2028 unless new gas supply is brought online.

    “Gas prices eased over the past 6 months, reflecting movements in international prices and an increase in market activity following implementation of the Gas Code,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

    “However, prices continue to be higher than pre-2022 levels. Concerningly, supply into the domestic market has fallen since that time and gas is increasingly being sold on a short-term basis, posing challenges for gas users who need longer-term certainty for their businesses.”

    “Gas policy in recent years has largely been directed towards the LNG producers to ensure that their uncontracted gas is available in the short term to avert domestic shortfalls,” Ms Brakey said.

    “For long-term energy security and affordability, however, it is critical to address underlying barriers to more efficient investment in domestic supply.”

    There are sufficient gas reserves and resources to meet projected domestic demand for at least the next decade, but these are yet to be developed due to a combination of policy, technical and commercial factors.

    Long-standing impediments to the development of east coast gas reserves by a diversity of suppliers need to be addressed, the report recommends.

    The report finds that Queensland’s gas reserves and resources, which are substantially held by the LNG producers, will be key to meeting the needs of the east coast gas market.

    The report examines individual Queensland LNG producers’ export operations and their role in the domestic market given each of the LNG producers’ different gas holdings and impacts on the domestic market.

    The report also includes preliminary observations on how the market has responded to regulatory changes implemented since 2022-23.

    “The information in the June report will enable stakeholders to make more informed decisions in response to the most recent forecasts of the east coast’s supply-demand balance,” Ms Brakey said.

    “The report also provides a robust evidence base to support informed engagement by the market, government and the public on policy decisions and regulation, including in respect of the upcoming Government Gas Market Review in the context of continuing concerns about the adequacy of gas production and the efficiency of the east coast gas market,” Ms Brakey said.

    The supply outlook for 2025 and 2026 has deteriorated

    The short-term supply outlook for the east coast has deteriorated since the December 2024 report as some key producers have downgraded their production forecasts. The ACCC now expects between a 2 petajoules (PJ) shortfall and an 11 PJ surplus in the fourth quarter of 2025.

    There is a risk of shortfall throughout 2026 if the Queensland LNG producers export all their uncontracted gas. Refilling gas storage facilities over summer, when gas demand is typically lower, will be essential to meeting demand in the southern states next year, particularly for the winter months.

    The June inquiry report includes the supply outlooks for the Queensland LNG producers.

    “The LNG exporters are the only producers with discretion to either export their uncontracted gas, or supply it into the domestic market, so understanding what can affect this ‘swing gas’ and the decisions they could make about gas will be necessary for consideration of options to manage shortfall risks and for effective policy responses,” Ms Brakey said.

    Forecast east coast supply-demand balance in Q4 2025 and 2026 (PJ)

    Source:  ACCC analysis of data obtained from gas producers and of AEMO’s 2025 GSOO domestic demand forecast (Step Change scenario).
    Note:   Totals may not sum due to rounding.

    Prices have continued to decrease but remain higher than previous years

    Prices offered by producers and retailers showed a moderate decline over the second half of 2024. This continues the trend observed since the peak of the 2022 energy crisis and is consistent with changes in international prices and domestic supply-demand conditions.

    Prices offered by producers to retailers for 2025 supply averaged $13.34 per gigajoule (GJ) between June and December 2024; a 10 per cent decrease from the previous six months. Retailer offers to commercial and industrial (C&I) users over this period fell by seven per cent to $14.34 per GJ. Offers for 2026 supply fell by seven per cent over the same period for both producers and retailers.

    However, market activity was lower, with fewer offers being made during the second half of 2024 compared to the first half of that year. Gas volumes contracted under long-term Gas Supply Agreements over this period remained below pre-2022 levels.

    Background

    In 2017, the Australian Government directed the ACCC to conduct a wide-ranging inquiry to improve transparency of the gas market in Australia and support its efficient operation, and to monitor gas supply. On 25 October 2022, the Government announced the extension of the ACCC’s gas inquiry role through to 2030.

    The ACCC’s next interim report is scheduled for September 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “It Is Those Who Can Least Afford It Who Are Going To Be Hit The Hardest”– In Speech on Senate Floor, Cantwell Shows How GOP’s Budget Sells Out the American People

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    06.29.25

    “It Is Those Who Can Least Afford It Who Are Going To Be Hit The Hardest”– In Speech on Senate Floor, Cantwell Shows How GOP’s Budget Sells Out the American People

    Cantwell: From kicking 17 million Americans off Medicaid & other health insurance to effectively cancelling state AI protections, the budget proposed by Congressional Republicans is a cash grab for corporations & the rich — at the expense of everyone else

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, as the Senate prepares to vote on a new budget that would gut $930 billion from Medicaid, funnel resources to special interests via massive corporate tax breaks, and add $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) delivered a speech on the Senate floor to highlight how various provisions included in the 940-page document ultimately sell out the American people.

    “This bill would make the entire health care system less responsive and more expensive for everyone by dismantling Medicaid and shifting more of the cost burden on to states — and threatening the very existence of rural hospitals. This bill also sells spectrum out from under our national defense and safety agencies and forces states to choose between protecting their citizens from dangerous AI or providing broadband service, and just gives away big breaks to companies like Meta — that’s Facebook — or Google, who I’m sure at this point in time don’t really need that additional tax break. Clearly, though, the most [egregious] and certainly most destructive part of the bill, of this reconciliation, is the changes to health care,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    “You’re going to increase the cost of uncompensated care. You’re going to make people wait to go to emergency rooms and then they’re going to be sicker,” she said. “It’s ten times more expensive to deal with somebody at an emergency room than just get health insurance and get covered.”

    “Yes, extending the 2017 tax cuts does help some middle-class families, and we would support that. But all the hits in other areas — like health insurance — mean they will lose money overall. The lowest 20% of income brackets are hit even harder. In this massive bill, it is those who can least afford it who are going to be hit the hardest,” Sen. Cantwell concluded.

    Her speech can be watched in full HERE; a transcript is HERE.

    Sen. Cantwell, who serves as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, has been fighting this proposed budget every step of the way.

    To sound the alarm on proposed Medicaid cuts, Sen. Cantwell hosted a virtual press conference on Friday with Republican leaders from red states – Utah, North Carolina, and Missouri. On Monday, she delivered another speech on the Senate floor highlighting the story of the Winterrose family in Richland, WA, who rely on Medicaid to ensure their 5-year-old daughter can live at home. Last month, she convened a group of health care providers across Washington state for a virtual press conference to highlight statewide opposition to the cuts.  The same day, 23 Republican members of the Washington state legislature sent a letter to the entire Washington state federal congressional delegation, urging the delegation to “protect Medicaid funding for Washington State.”

    When details of her Republican colleagues’ plan to slash Medicaid were made public earlier this year, Sen. Cantwell toured the state to hear from folks who would be directly impacted by the cuts. Doctors, patients, and health care providers in Seattle, Spokane, the Tri-Cities, and Wenatchee warned that such cuts would devastate Washington state’s health care system and limit access to lifesaving care. 

    Sen. Cantwell also released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that Medicaid cuts would have on Washington state’s highly-ranked long-term care system for seniors and people with disabilities. In February, she released a snapshot report that demonstrated how cuts would harm health care access in Washington state, and she followed up with a report in March that dove into impacts on the Puget Sound region. Last week, the Senator released a fact sheet that warned of dire consequences for reproductive health care in Washington state if the Republican reconciliation bill is passed.

    In her remarks today, Sen. Cantwell also discussed new analysis from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), available here, of the impact of the Republican plan’s cuts to Medicaid.  In addition, a Joint Economic Committee (JEC) fact sheet, available here, provides updated estimates for all 50 states and D.C. of the estimated number of people losing their health insurance. The JEC data broken down by Congressional District is available here.

    A previous version of the bill included a provision that would have required the federal government to sell off millions of acres of public land. On Tuesday, Sen. Cantwell held a virtual press conference with the mayor of Boise, professional climbers, a leader from outdoor gear retailer REI, and a spokesperson for a hunting and angling advocacy group to fight back – yesterday, the provision was dropped.

    Earlier this week, Sen. Cantwell criticized new reconciliation bill language released by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) which forces states receiving Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding to choose between expanding broadband or protecting consumers from harms caused by artificial intelligence for ten years. Cruz’s new language would also auction spectrum critical to national defense: “The newly released language by Chair Cruz continues to hold $42 billion in BEAD funding hostage, forcing states to choose between protecting consumers and expanding critical broadband infrastructure to rural communities,” Sen. Cantwell said earlier this week. “Forty state attorneys general oppose the AI moratorium that would leave every American vulnerable to AI-assisted fraud, theft, and abuse at a time when we should be strengthening consumer protections. This bill would auction off spectrum essential for military drone operations and risk grounding both civilian and military aircraft due to interference with airplane altimeters. It would jeopardize our weather tracking radar systems and the bands we rely on for WiFi connectivity. And for what? So telecommunications companies—the same ones that failed to protect Americans from Salt Typhoon—can profit and Trump can hawk more of his $47.45 phone plans. This is a fundamental threat to our national defense and a massive giveaway to China.” Sen. Cruz claims that the ten-year moratorium on states’ enforcement of AI laws applies only to a new $500 million appropriation. However, concerns remain that the bill’s text still leverages broadband funding to deny states the ability to protect their citizens from AI-assisted fraud, theft, and abuse.

    The Senate is currently scheduled to vote on the budget bill late tonight or early tomorrow morning. If the bill passes the Senate, it will go back to the House for at least 72 hours of consideration before a House vote.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Earth is trapping much more heat than climate models forecast – and the rate has doubled in 20 years

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Steven Sherwood, Professor of Atmospheric Sciences, Climate Change Research Centre, UNSW Sydney

    NASA, CC BY-NC-ND

    How do you measure climate change? One way is by recording temperatures in different places over a long period of time. While this works well, natural variation can make it harder to see longer-term trends.

    But another approach can give us a very clear sense of what’s going on: track how much heat enters Earth’s atmosphere and how much heat leaves. This is Earth’s energy budget, and it’s now well and truly out of balance.

    Our recent research found this imbalance has more than doubled over the last 20 years. Other researchers have come to the same conclusions. This imbalance is now substantially more than climate models have suggested.

    In the mid-2000s, the energy imbalance was about 0.6 watts per square metre (W/m2) on average. In recent years, the average was about 1.3 W/m2. This means the rate at which energy is accumulating near the planet’s surface has doubled.

    These findings suggest climate change might well accelerate in the coming years. Worse still, this worrying imbalance is emerging even as funding uncertainty in the United States threatens our ability to track the flows of heat.

    Energy in, energy out

    Earth’s energy budget functions a bit like your bank account, where money comes in and money goes out. If you reduce your spending, you’ll build up cash in your account. Here, energy is the currency.

    Life on Earth depends on a balance between heat coming in from the Sun and heat leaving. This balance is tipping to one side.

    Solar energy hits Earth and warms it. The atmosphere’s heat-trapping greenhouse gases keep some of this energy.

    But the burning of coal, oil and gas has now added more than two trillion tonnes of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. These trap more and more heat, preventing it from leaving.

    Some of this extra heat is warming the land or melting sea ice, glaciers and ice sheets. But this is a tiny fraction. Fully 90% has gone into the oceans due to their huge heat capacity.

    Earth naturally sheds heat in several ways. One way is by reflecting incoming heat off of clouds, snow and ice and back out to space. Infrared radiation is also emitted back to space.

    From the beginning of human civilisation up until just a century ago, the average surface temperature was about 14°C. The accumulating energy imbalance has now pushed average temperatures 1.3-1.5°C higher.

    Ice and reflective clouds reflect heat back to space. As the Earth heats up, most trapped heat goes into the oceans but some melts ice and heats the land and air. Pictured: Icebergs from the Jacobshavn glacier in Greenland, the largest outside Antarctica.
    Ashley Cooper/Getty

    Tracking faster than the models

    Scientists keep track of the energy budget in two ways.

    First, we can directly measure the heat coming from the Sun and going back out to space, using the sensitive radiometers on monitoring satellites. This dataset and its predecessors date back to the late 1980s.

    Second, we can accurately track the build-up of heat in the oceans and atmosphere by taking temperature readings. Thousands of robotic floats have monitored temperatures in the world’s oceans since the 1990s.

    Both methods show the energy imbalance has grown rapidly.

    The doubling of the energy imbalance has come as a shock, because the sophisticated climate models we use largely didn’t predict such a large and rapid change.

    Typically, the models forecast less than half of the change we’re seeing in the real world.

    Why has it changed so fast?

    We don’t yet have a full explanation. But new research suggests changes in clouds is a big factor.

    Clouds have a cooling effect overall. But the area covered by highly reflective white clouds has shrunk, while the area of jumbled, less reflective clouds has grown.

    It isn’t clear why the clouds are changing. One possible factor could be the consequences of successful efforts to reduce sulfur in shipping fuel from 2020, as burning the dirtier fuel may have had a brightening effect on clouds. However, the accelerating energy budget imbalance began before this change.

    Natural fluctuations in the climate system such as the Pacific Decadal Oscillation might also be playing a role. Finally – and most worryingly – the cloud changes might be part of a trend caused by global warming itself, that is, a positive feedback on climate change.

    Dense blankets of white clouds reflect the most heat. But the area covered by these clouds is shrinking.
    Adhivaswut/Shutterstock

    What does this mean?

    These findings suggest recent extremely hot years are not one-offs but may reflect a strengthening of warming over the coming decade or longer.

    This will mean a higher chance of more intense climate impacts from searing heatwaves, droughts and extreme rains on land, and more intense and long lasting marine heatwaves.

    This imbalance may lead to worse longer-term consequences. New research shows the only climate models coming close to simulating real world measurements are those with a higher “climate sensitivity”. That means these models predict more severe warming beyond the next few decades in scenarios where emissions are not rapidly reduced.

    We don’t know yet whether other factors are at play, however. It’s still too early to definitively say we are on a high-sensitivity trajectory.

    Our eyes in the sky

    We’ve known the solution for a long time: stop the routine burning of fossil fuels and phase out human activities causing emissions such as deforestation.

    Keeping accurate records over long periods of time is essential if we are to spot unexpected changes.

    Satellites, in particular, are our advance warning system, telling us about heat storage changes roughly a decade before other methods.

    But funding cuts and drastic priority shifts in the United States may threaten essential satellite climate monitoring.

    Steven Sherwood receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Mindaroo Foundation.

    Benoit Meyssignac receives funding from the European Commission, the European Space Agency and the French National Space Agency.

    Thorsten Mauritsen receives funding from the European Research Council, the European Space Agency, the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish National Space Agency and the Bolin Centre for Climate Research.

    – ref. Earth is trapping much more heat than climate models forecast – and the rate has doubled in 20 years – https://theconversation.com/earth-is-trapping-much-more-heat-than-climate-models-forecast-and-the-rate-has-doubled-in-20-years-258822

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Showcases AI Home Appliance Innovations at DA Global Tech Seminars Across Five Regions

    Source: Samsung

    From March to June, Samsung Electronics hosted Digital Appliances (DA) Global Tech Seminars across five regions — the United States, Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia and Southwest Asia — to showcase its latest innovations to audiences around the world. The seminars welcomed about 240 media representatives and tech influencers from 40 countries to experience Samsung’s latest AI home appliances firsthand and observe how the company is tailoring features to meet the unique needs of each region.1 Attendees also participated in Q&A sessions with product developers, who shared in-depth insights and explanations.
     
    Samsung Newsroom recaps each regional seminar with on-site highlights and photos.
     
     
    United States: Large-Capacity Washer-Dryers Win Praise for Practicality and Efficiency
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in the U.S.
     
    The U.S. Tech Seminar took place on March 18 at Samsung Home, a Bespoke AI experience space in SoHo, New York City — a neighborhood synonymous with art and creative living.
     
    American consumers tend to prioritize practicality and efficiency. Taking this into account, Samsung set up a dedicated experience zone for the large-capacity Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo, featuring a product cutaway mock-up that allowed visitors to intuitively understand the product’s core technologies and features. In addition, a live cooking demonstration showcased the AI capabilities of the Bespoke AI Oven, while the Bespoke AI Hybrid Refrigerator — which boosts energy efficiency using a semiconductor-based Peltier module — also mesmerized guests.
     
     
    Europe: Bespoke AI Jet Ultra Takes Center Stage With Industry-Leading Suction Power
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Germany
     
    On the same day, the European Tech Seminar kicked off in Frankfurt, Germany, at World of Samsung — a global showcase designed to provide an in-depth look at Samsung’s products.
     
    A key highlight was the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, which features the world’s most powerful suction for a cordless stick vacuum cleaner at 400W. Samsung developers gave presentations, offering insight into the vacuum cleaner’s high-performance engineering. The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra recently earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from U.K.-based review outlet Trusted Reviews and ranked first among 43 cordless vacuums tested by German IT outlet Chip.
     
     
    Latin America: SmartThings-Connected Home Appliances Growing at Twice the Global Rate
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Mexico
     
    The Latin America Tech Seminar took place on June 3 in the vibrant metropolis of Mexico City, Mexico, drawing media and influencers from 13 countries to experience Samsung’s new lineup firsthand. Consumers in the region have shown high interest in connected living, with SmartThings-connected appliance adoption growing at more than twice the global average.2
     
    Reflecting this demand, demonstrations highlighted various features including Map View, Bixby, Routines — all easily accessible via SmartThings or the AI Home screen. Attendees also visited Sam’s House, a premium residential showroom where they engaged in hands-on interactions with Samsung’s connected products.
     
     
    Southeast Asia: AI Appliances Optimized for Hot, Humid Climates
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Thailand
     
    On June 20, Samsung held the Southeast Asia Tech Seminar at a showroom in Bangkok, Thailand, where attendees explored the company’s latest products in settings simulating both commercial and residential spaces.
     
    Through demonstrations, attendees experienced how the Voice ID feature on the Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator can recognize individual voices to deliver personalized responses. They also saw how Samsung is localizing AI home appliances to better suit Southeast Asia’s hot and humid climate — for example, the 1-Way Cassette system air conditioner and the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer. “The use of AI to enhance user experience and facilitate both usage and energy savings is particularly valuable and useful,” said Kemachad Gunpai of Future Trends Thailand who attended the seminar.
     
     
    Southwest Asia: AI-Powered, Efficient Cooling Solutions in the Spotlight
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in India
     
    Held on June 25 in Gurugram, India, the Southwest Asia Tech Seminar focused on SmartThings-connected solutions and energy-efficient features tailored to local preferences.
     
    Among the demonstrations were AI appliances responding to sleep patterns detected by motion sensors, alongside cooling solutions tailored for Indian consumers. Attendees also received detailed explanations on how to track energy usage via SmartThings, a particularly relevant feature amid rising electricity costs. Samsung employees also explained how each product operates in AI Energy Mode to maximize efficiency and minimize energy consumption.
     
    “Samsung will continue to develop and expand the Global Tech Seminars in ways that reflect the unique local characteristics of each region,” said Soohyuk Ro, Vice President and Head of Tech Insight Group at Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics, as the seminars came to an end. “In doing so, we will provide even deeper insights into how Samsung’s AI Home and innovative AI appliances can bring meaningful benefits to daily life for everyone.”
     
     
    1 Product names and features mentioned in this article may vary by region.
    2 Based on internal data from Samsung, aggregated via BDC (BI & Analytics), reflecting the cumulative annual ratio of Wi-Fi-connected devices.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Myth vs. Fact: The One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    While Democrats spend the day launching desperate, hollow attacks in a last-ditch effort to block President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, the FACTS speak for themselves.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill is “just a tax break for billionaires.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers the largest middle- and working-class tax cut in U.S. history. The President’s legislation will put more than $10,000 a year back in the pockets of typical hardworking families. This is the most pro-growth, pro-worker, pro-family legislation ever crafted.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “takes from the poor to give to the rich.”FACT: The lowest-income workers receive the largest percentage tax cuts. The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers the largest tax cut in history for working-and -middle class Americans.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “makes life more unaffordable.”FACT: The bill delivers bigger paychecks, expanding take-home pay by over $10,000 per year for a typical family.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “hurts low-income families.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill is the most pro-family legislation ever crafted. It will deliver bigger paychecks, giving more than a $10,000 boost annually to everyday families. We are also expanding Opportunity Zones, expanding childcare access, increasing the child tax credit, and creating newborn savings accounts.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “is just a handout to corporations.”FACT: This bill drives a Blue-Collar BOOM with tax relief for workers, support for small businesses, and investments in American manufacturing. The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers the largest middle- and working-class tax cut in U.S. history.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “leaves American workers behind.”FACT: This is the most pro-American worker bill in history. The One Big Beautiful Bill boosts pay for millions—and with no tax on tips or overtime, those working hourly and service jobs receive additional tax relief.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “hurts small businesses.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill will make the Trump Tax Cuts permanent, including the small business deduction—helping Main Street grow and hire. Failure to pass this legislation would result in a $4 trillion tax hike.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “kicks American families off Medicaid.”FACT: As the President has said numerous times, there will be no cuts to Medicaid. The One Big Beautiful Bill protects and strengthens Medicaid for those who rely on it—pregnant women, children, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families—while eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse. The One Big Beautiful Bill removes illegal aliens, enforces work requirements, and protects Medicaid for the truly vulnerable.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “cuts Medicare.”FACT: Medicare has not been touched in this bill— absolutely nothing in the bill reduces spending on Medicare benefits. This legislation does not make a single cut to welfare programs—it safeguards and protects these programs for all eligible Americans.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “will close rural hospitals.”FACT: Rural hospitals comprise just 7% of all hospital spending on Medicaid, illustrating that they have not benefited from the massive increase in waste, fraud, and abuse under the Biden administration. By strengthening Medicaid, we are making more resources available for vulnerable populations and safety net providers, like rural hospitals. We are expanding rural hospital protection, providing targeted funds for rural care, and giving states flexibility to support local providers.
    MYTH: “People will literally die” from the One Big Beautiful Bill — “and millions will be kicked off their healthcare.”FACT: This is one of the most egregious, deranged attacks from the Left peddling fear over the facts. The One Big Beautiful Bill protects eligible Americans on federal welfare – including Medicaid. By strengthening the integrity of Medicaid by eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse, its resources can be refocused on providing better care for those whom the program was designed to serve: pregnant women, children, people with disabilities, low-income seniors, and other vulnerable low-income families.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “will hurt people with disabilities.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill protects and strengthens Medicaid for Americans with disabilities. Rest assured, those with disabilities receiving Medicaid will receive no loss or change in coverage.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “punishes vulnerable Americans with work requirements to receive their benefits.”FACT: Not true. The 20-hour weekly work requirement applies only to able-bodied adults without young children and promotes dignity, stability, and better health outcomes for families. The One Big Beautiful Bill restores the dignity of work with historically bipartisan work requirements for able-bodied Americans. We are implementing commonsense, Clinton-era work, volunteer, education, or training requirements with broad bipartisan support.
    MYTH: “There’s no fraud in Medicaid — Republicans are just taking coverage away from vulnerable populations.”FACT: In the last 10 years, CMS admitted that improper payments for Medicaid have exceeded HALF A TRILLION dollars. In just the past year, taxpayers spent $56 billion on benefits for able-bodied adults abusing the system—and over a million illegal aliens are receiving free health care on the backs of taxpayers. The One Big Beautiful Bill removes illegal aliens, enacts work requirements for able-bodied adults, and protects Medicaid for the truly vulnerable.
    MYTH: “SNAP work requirements are unnecessary.”FACT: Only 28% of able-bodied adults on SNAP work. The One Big Beautiful Bill promotes work, responsibility, and restores SNAP to serve the truly needy. SNAP enrollment remains high even in a strong economy, including millions of able-bodied adults who could work. In fact, almost three-quarters of able-bodied adults without dependents on SNAP have no earned income. The mission of the program has failed. SNAP was intended to be temporary help for those who encounter tough times—we are strengthening this program to serve those who need it most.
    MYTH: “Illegal aliens don’t get federal benefits.”FACT: Illegals burden taxpayers with billions in costs for free health care and welfare benefits. The One Big Beautiful Bill ends Medicaid and SNAP fraud and ensures these programs serve only eligible Americans.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “doesn’t actually end taxes on Social Security.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers historic tax relief to seniors, with a new tax deduction that, combined with other deductions, ensures the average Social Security beneficiary will pay zero taxes on Social Security.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “increases the deficit.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill reduces deficits by over $2 trillion by increasing economic growth and cutting waste, fraud, and abuse across government programs at an unprecedented rate. This legislation delivers historic levels of mandatory savings. President Trump’s pro-growth economic formula will reduce the deficit, increase wages, deliver American jobs, and drive down the cost of living.
    MYTH: “But the CBO says….”FACT: The Crooked Budget Office has a terrible record with its predictions and hasn’t earned the attention the media gives it. The CBO misreads the economic consequences of not extending the Trump Tax Cuts. The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers real savings that will unleash our economy and prevent the largest tax hike in history, resulting in historic prosperity, while lowering the debt burden.
    MYTH: “There’s too much ‘pork’ in this bill.”FACT: There’s no pork in the bill. Every single provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill is a campaign promise the American people elected President Trump to deliver. The only new spending in the bill is to secure the homeland of the United States and save American sovereignty — which is fully paid for by increased visa fees on foreigners.
    MYTH: “The One Big Beautiful Bill won’t strengthen national security.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers on President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda by funding the Golden Dome missile defense system and modernizing our military to prioritize lethality and readiness. It fully equips our war fighters with the resources they need while modernizing and revolutionizing our equipment and technology.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “helps ‘Big Oil’ and locks up U.S. energy resources.”FACT: Quite the opposite. It unleashes American energy, refills the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and repeals the Green New Scam policies. The One Big Beautiful Bill unleashes clean, American-made energy and will reduce the cost of living for Americans nationwide.
    MYTH: “Manufacturing jobs will still go overseas.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers 100% expensing for new domestic factories, revitalizes Opportunity Zones, and incentivizes companies to keep jobs in America.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “neglects rural America.”FACT: This bill invests in rural communities, expands market access, and delivers historic support to farm families. The One Big Beautiful Bill provides the certainty America’s farm families need to continue operating and producing the affordable, safe, and abundant supply of food, fuel, and fiber that our nation relies on.
    MYTH: “SNAP is being gutted and cutting food stamps for families, causing them to go hungry.”FACT: The One Big Beautiful Bill protects and strengthens SNAP. Right now, almost three-quarters of able-bodied adults without dependents on SNAP have no earned income and the fraud rate is high. The mission of the program has failed: SNAP was intended to be temporary help for those who encounter tough times. Now, it’s become so bloated that it is leaving fewer resources for those who truly need help. We are committed to preserving SNAP for the truly needy.
    MYTH: “Republicans are shutting Democrats out of the legislative process.”FACT: This is not a partisan bill—Democrats shut themselves out by supporting higher taxes, open borders, and giveaways to illegal immigrants. The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers on Republican promises to lower taxes, secure the border, cut spending, and put Americans first.
    MYTH: The One Big Beautiful Bill “border package is not necessary since President Trump has secured the border.”FACT: We must ensure that the invasion we witnessed as a nation under Joe Biden and Kamala Harris never happens again. The One Big Beautiful Bill’s historic investment in our border security ensures we permanently secure our border and protect our homeland by finishing the border wall, hiring 10,000 new ICE officers, and funding efforts to stop the flow of fentanyl.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Upgrading national grid to power AI future to be tackled at AI Energy Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Upgrading national grid to power AI future to be tackled at AI Energy Council

    The Technology and Energy Secretaries will chair the second meeting of the AI Energy Council today.

    AI Energy Council helping to power new AI breakthroughs.

    • Second meeting to focus on bringing the energy grid up to speed to power the next wave of AI breakthroughs.
    • Major tech and energy companies to attend, following £2 billion to accelerate the use of AI in boosting productivity and growth across the UK.
    • Comes in addition to reforming the connections process so data centres can quickly get up and running – increasing investment and speeding up breakthroughs using AI.

    The energy demands to drive the processing power needed for new waves of AI breakthroughs, and the future energy needs of the wider AI sector will be on the agenda as the AI Energy Council gathers today (30 June).

    With energy providers, tech companies, energy regulator Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) convening, this second meeting will discuss how to work together to forecast how much energy will be needed to deliver a twenty-fold increase in compute capacity over the next 5 years.

    Compute represents the key building block of AI development. It captures the vital resources which make AI models work, such as the processing power which allows them to be trained on data and process information. By increasing the UK’s capacity, it will give scientists and AI companies from across the UK access to the systems they need for their cutting-edge research – making the next big breakthrough from personalised medical treatments, more sustainable air travel, or developing new tools in the fight against climate change.

    The meeting is also expected to cover which sectors are likely to quickly adopt AI and how this could drive significant shifts in energy demand. Discussions will focus on what assumptions need to be made to accurately forecast that demand, ensuring the energy system is prepared for AI. 

    Chaired by the Technology and Energy Secretaries, the meeting comes hot on the heels of the UK government announcing £2 billion to deliver the AI Opportunities Action Plan.

    The Action Plan serves as a blueprint to turbocharge the use of AI, whether it’s in hospitals to help diagnose patients more quickly, in schools to help with lesson planning so teachers have more time in front of the whiteboard, or delivering new AI Growth Zones which will unlock scores of new investment and jobs to revitalize local communities and deliver the economic growth driving the government’s Plan for Change.

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, Peter Kyle said:

    Giving our researchers and innovators access to the processing power they need will not only maintain our standing as the world’s third-biggest AI power, but put British expertise at the heart of the AI breakthroughs which will improve our lives, modernise our public services, and spark the economic growth which is the cornerstone of our Plan for Change.

    We are clear-eyed though on the need to make sure we can power this golden era for British AI through responsible, sustainable energy sources. Today’s talks will help us drive forward that mission, delivering AI infrastructure which will benefit communities up and down the country for generations to come without ever compromising on our clean energy superpower ambitions.

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

    We are making the UK a clean energy superpower, building the homegrown energy this country needs to get bills down for good and create new jobs as part of our Plan for Change.

    Bringing together the biggest players in AI and energy will help us discuss the role AI can play an important role in building a new era of clean electricity for our country, and meeting the power demands of new technology as we build a clean power system for families and businesses.

    With energy providers, tech companies, energy regulator Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) convening today, they’ll discuss how to work together to forecast how much energy will be needed to deliver this twenty-fold increase in compute capacity over the next 5 years. The meeting is also expected to cover which sectors are likely to quickly adopt AI and how this could drive significant shifts in energy demand. 

    The meeting will consider the future energy needs of the AI sector more widely, as the government also continues to move forward with its plans to roll out AI Growth Zones across the country. These hotbeds of AI development will unlock billions in investment and deliver scores of new jobs across the country, with communities throughout the UK having already expressed an interest in being home to future growth zone sites. 

    Since establishing the AI Energy Council in January, government has been deepening its work both Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) to deliver fundamental reforms to the UK’s connections process. Once final signoffs from Ofgem are in place, this could mean more than 400GW of additional capacity is freed up from the grid connection queue – turbocharging the AI projects which are vital to economic growth. 

    Further Information

    The Technology and Energy Secretary are joined at today’s meeting by representatives of:

    • Google
    • Microsoft
    • Amazon Web Services
    • Equinix
    • Brookfield
    • ARM
    • Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA)
    • National Energy System Operator (NESO)
    • Ofgem
    • National Grid
    • Energy Networks Association
    • Scottish Power
    • Nuclear Industry Association
    • EDF Energy
    • International Energy Agency

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Lands Sale Proposal Forced Out of GOP Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.29.25
    Public Lands Sale Proposal Forced Out of GOP Budget Bill
    After significant pressure from hunters, anglers, and outdoor rec community, Senator Lee reluctantly withdraws controversial proposal
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, released the following statement on the removal of a proposal to sell millions of acres of public lands from Senate Republicans’ reconciliation bill:
    “This was a wrongheaded proposal that had no place in this reconciliation bill. Many western Senators who know the value of recreational lands objected to its inclusion,” said Sen. Cantwell. “I am glad our special places will still be available for everyone.”
    On Tuesday, Sen. Cantwell held a virtual press conference with the mayor of Boise, professional climbers, a leader from outdoor gear retailer REI, and a spokesperson for a hunting and angling advocacy group to push back on the GOP’s plans to sell public lands.
    On Wednesday, Sen. Cantwell released a statement on an updated proposal to sell off America’s public lands, after Senator Mike Lee’s (R-UT) original draft text was ruled to be noncompliant with Senate rules governing the budget process.
    And yesterday, after Senate Republicans released draft text of the reconciliation bill that preserved the public lands sell-off provision, Sen. Cantwell released a statement slamming its continued inclusion.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: ENERGY SECRETARY: It’s Time to Stop Subsidizing Solar and Wind in Perpetuity

    Source: US Department of Energy

    New York Post

    June 27, 2025

    “How the Big Beautiful Bill will lower energy costs, shore up the electric grid — and unleash American prosperity”

    By Chris Wright

    How much would you pay for an Uber if you didn’t know when it would pick you up or where it was going to drop you off? Probably not much.

    Yet this is the same effect that variable generation sources like wind and solar have on our power grids.

    You never know if these energy sources will actually be able to produce electricity when you need it — because you don’t know if the sun will be shining or the wind blowing.

    Even so, the federal government has subsidized these sources for decades, resulting in higher electricity prices and a less stable grid.

    . . .

    President Donald Trump knows what to do: Eliminate green tax credits from the Democrats’ so-called Inflation Reduction Act, including those for wind and solar power.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill seeks to do that: Along with other proposals, like canceling billions in Biden Green New Deal money and making much-needed investments in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, it aims to set an aggressive end date for these subsidies and build on the president’s push for affordable, abundant, and secure energy for the nation.

    . . .

    As Secretary of Energy — and someone who’s devoted his life to advancing energy innovation to better human lives — I, too, know how these Green New Deal subsidies are fleecing Americans.

    Wind and solar subsidies have been particularly wasteful and counterproductive.

    One example: The Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit was first introduced in 1992, when wind energy was a nascent industry. This tax credit, originally set to phase out in 1999, was sold on a promise of low-cost energy with fewer tradeoffs.

    Since 1999, the REPTC has been extended a whopping 12 times, yet consumers continue to pay more on average for their home electric bills than in 1992, even after adjusting for inflation.

    Plus, today, more than 75% of US electricity comes from natural gas, nuclear and coal — and they supply it 24/7, independent of the weather.

    . . .

    At 8 p.m. on Inauguration Day, amid bitter cold across much of the Eastern seaboard, we reached peak demand for electricity in the mid-Atlantic region. At that point in time, PJM Interconnection, which supplies the Mid-Atlantic United States, got approximately 44% of its power from coal, 24% from natural gas, 25% from nuclear, 3% from oil, 3% from wind, 1% from hydro and 0% from solar.

    Think about that: When Americans most needed dependable power to heat their homes and businesses to stay alive, solar and wind were non-factors.

    Our homes, hospitals and businesses only continued to operate because there was enough reliable, baseload energy from natural gas, coal and nuclear available to meet demand.

    How valuable is a teammate who occasionally shows up for practice but is never there at game time?

    And the more we load our grid with intermittent generation, the worse the grid performs during times of maximum stress and demand.

    Subsidies are meant to drive prices down and boost supply. But subsidizing wind and solar has done exactly the opposite.

    . . .

    Bottom line: higher costs. Indeed, wind and solar subsidies not only cost taxpayers but also force providers to add more dispatchable resources to the grid, at their expense.

    These costs are then passed on to ratepayers.

    In other words, more wind and solar brings us the worst of two worlds: less reliable energy delivery and higher electric bills.

    It’s time to stop subsidizing such insanity in perpetuity. If sources are truly economically viable, let’s allow them to stand on their own, and stop forcing Americans to pick up the tab if they’re not.

    Read the full article here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to ‘Healthy food revolution to tackle obesity epidemic’, as press released by DHSC

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Experts comment on a new press release sent out by the government entitled ‘Healthy food revolution to tackle obesity epidemic’.

    Prof Andrew Prentice, Professor of International Nutrition at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said:

    “I’m delighted to see government working hand in hand with food manufacturers and retailers. As industry is perceived by many as being part of the problem in creating an obesogenic environment, they must be part of the solution.’

    “The devil will be in the detail and it is a bit concerning to read that ‘large retailers including supermarkets will set a new standard’ but this may be careless wording in the press release. Elsewhere it is clear that the Food Strategy Advisory Board will lead the charge.

    “Mandatory reporting of healthy/unhealthy food sales is an important first step but will presumably only affect the largest outlets. Other initiatives will be required for the thousands of smaller food producers and outlets.’

    “The issue of government creating a level playing field is key. This will help companies reduce sugar and fat from products without fear of losing out to competitors who do not.”

    Prof Tom Sanders, Professor Emeritus of Nutrition and Dietetics, King’s College London, said:

    “The claim made in the Press Release that Public Health experts believe that reducing daily diet by just 50 calories would lift 340,000 children and 2 million adults out of obesity is not a view that most experts in nutrition would share.

    “In theory, very small reductions in daily calorie intake (50 kcal) should stop unhealthy weight gain. But there is little evidence to support this because in practice individuals adapt to small reductions or increases in calorie intake by reducing or increasing energy expenditure. Put into perspective, 50 kcal is the energy expended by 10 minutes brisk walking.

    “There is very limited evidence from one randomised controlled trial in children showing that swapping a can of full sugar drink for a can of diet drink consumed five times a week for a year and a half reduced unhealthy weight gain by just over 1kg. The results of that study found the weight gain was far less than predicted.

    “Most randomised controlled trials show you need to reduce calories intake by at least 300 kcal for a sustained period time to lose weight. Weight gain also tends to occur during periods of excessive consumption (e.g. Christmas and festive periods) or when physical activity is low.

    “Discretionary foods consumed outside the home (crisps, morning goods, cakes, ice-cream) as well as alcoholic drinks are particularly fattening and recent reports suggest we need to focus on these and change eating behaviours, which continue to get worse.

    “Food manufacturers have already reduced portion sizes of foods by ‘shrinkflation’ (less food at higher prices) but so far this has had little impact on obesity.

    “Tackling obesity can only be effective if it changes the obesogenic environment which is characterised by sedentary behaviour and over-exposure to high calorie food.”

    * www.gov.uk/government/news/healthy-food-revolution-to-tackle-obesity-epidemic

    Declared interests

    Prof Tom Sanders: “I have received grant funding for research on vegans in the past. I have been retired for 10 years but during my career at King’s College London, I formerly acted as consultant for companies that made artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes.

    “I am a member of the Programme Advisory Committee of the Malaysia Palm Oil Board which involves the review of research projects proposed by the Malaysia government.

    “I also used to be a member of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Global Dairy Platform up until 2015.

    “I did do some consultancy work on GRAS affirmation of high oleic palm oil for Archer Daniel Midland more than ten years ago.

    “My research group received oils and fats free of charge from Unilever and Archer Daniel Midland for our Food Standards Agency Research.

    “I was a member of the FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee that recommended that trans fatty acids be removed from the human food chain.

    “Member of the Science Committee British Nutrition Foundation.  Honorary Nutritional Director HEART UK.

    “Before my retirement from King’s College London in 2014, I acted as a consultant to many companies and organisations involved in the manufacture of what are now designated ultraprocessed foods.

    “I used to be a consultant to the Breakfast Cereals Advisory Board of the Food and Drink Federation.

    “I used to be a consultant for aspartame more than a decade ago.

    “When I was doing research at King’ College London, the following applied: Tom does not hold any grants or have any consultancies with companies involved in the production or marketing of sugar-sweetened drinks.  In reference to previous funding to Tom’s institution: £4.5 million was donated to King’s College London by Tate & Lyle in 2006; this funding finished in 2011. This money was given to the College and was in recognition of the discovery of the artificial sweetener sucralose by Prof Hough at the Queen Elizabeth College (QEC), which merged with King’s College London. The Tate & Lyle grant paid for the Clinical Research Centre at St Thomas’ that is run by the Guy’s & St Thomas’ Trust, it was not used to fund research on sugar. Tate & Lyle sold their sugar interests to American Sugar so the brand Tate & Lyle still exists but it is no longer linked to the company Tate & Lyle PLC, which gave the money to King’s College London in 2006.”

    Andrew Prentice: “I sit on the Global Nutrition Science Council for the Nestlé Nutrition Institute (NNI), an educational initiative, and create content for them (lectures, articles and podcasts for health care professionals).”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £11.7m fund to boost business investment and jobs at Port Talbot

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    £11.7m fund to boost business investment and jobs at Port Talbot

    New Economic Growth and Investment Fund announced by the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    Over £11.7 million to boost business investment and jobs in Port Talbot from newly announced Economic Growth and Investment Fund

    • Backed by £11.78 million – including £6.78 million from the UK Government and £5 million from Tata Steel UK.
    • Part of £80 million announced by the Transition Board just 10 months

    A new £11.78 million fund will soon be available to businesses in Port Talbot and the surrounding area to help them grow, create high-quality jobs, and attract long-term investment. 

    The Economic Growth and Investment Fund is designed to support companies that offer skilled, well-paid employment opportunities that match the talents of the local workforce.

    The fund includes £6.78 million from the UK Government and £5 million from Tata Steel UK and will complement the work of the Welsh Government and Neath Port Talbot Council to strengthen the local economy.

    To ensure the fund delivers the greatest possible impact, a period of engagement with businesses will begin ahead of the fund opening for bids in the autumn. This will shape the fund’s design – ensuring it meets the needs of businesses and unlocks the conditions for long-term economic growth, job creation, and private sector investment. Once engagement has been completed, the fund is then subject to business case approval by UK Government. 

    This funding announcement is the latest from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board, chaired by Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens and including representatives from the UK and Welsh Governments, local authorities, unions and business.

    Since its first release of funding in August 2024, it has now announced £80 million to fund skills training for workers and regeneration projects as Tata Steel carries out its transition to electric arc steelmaking.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:  

    This new fund is a powerful example of what can be achieved when government and business work together to deliver for communities. Backed by over £11.7 million, it will help local businesses grow, create high-quality jobs and attract more new investment to Port Talbot.

    This announcement marks the full allocation of the UK Government’s £80 million contribution to the Transition Board – all delivered in less than a year. It’s a clear demonstration of this government’s determination to act swiftly and decisively in support of Port Talbot and its steelmaking community, ensuring that funding reaches the people and businesses who need it most.

    We said we would back the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families and businesses dependent on Tata Steel and we have delivered on that promise.

    Tata Steel UK’s Head of Public Relations Tim Rutter said:

    We are delighted to support this new Economic Growth and Investment Fund from our £20 million commitment to the Transition Board. Local businesses play a vital role in the growth and economic prosperity of the region, and we are confident this fund will draw in further investment, providing jobs and opportunities for people across the area.

    We continue to be committed to supporting those individuals impacted by our business transformation, and this fund will complement the existing support services that we have put in place, in addition to the most generous voluntary redundancy package in the company’s history.

    We look forward to working with our partners on the Transition Board, trades unions, local businesses and the community to ensure this fund has a positive impact.

    Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans said:

    We welcome the new Economic Growth and Investment Fund announced today.

    Delivery is the Welsh Government’s watch word. Working in partnership with the UK Government, local authorities, trade unions and businesses, we are supporting economic growth today and actively shaping its future direction for tomorrow. 

    We are also ensuring that cross-government investments such as Freeports and Investment Zones align with Welsh priorities and deliver real and lasting benefits and local job opportunities in communities such as Port Talbot.

    Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt said:

    This announcement marks another major milestone in our response to a period of significant change for the local economy of the Port Talbot area.

    A key aim for us as a council is to create more secure, green, and well-paid jobs and to develop the skills required for these roles. As such we are working hard to meet the current challenges and to move beyond these to future economic growth.

     “Working alongside our Transition Board partners we will soon be engaging the local business community to ensure we make the most of the opportunity that this funding presents

    The UK Government has committed £2.5 billion of investment to rebuild the UK’s steel industry for decades to come as it decarbonises.

    This is in addition to the £500 million allocated to Tata Steel in Port Talbot for an electric arc furnace, which recently received planning approval with construction due to begin in the coming months.

    The new fund will build on this momentum—helping local people by supporting the creation of high-quality jobs, encouraging business growth, and attracting new investment to secure a strong economic future for Port Talbot.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “ICH Flavours” Carnival showcases essence of making techniques for food related to intangible cultural heritage (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Intangible Cultural Heritage Office of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department is holding the “ICH Flavours” Carnival at the Oil Street Art Space (Oi!) in North Point today (June 28) and tomorrow (June 29). Under the theme of “Food Culture”, the carnival, with free booth activities, workshops and demonstrations, allows members of the public to experience the essence of making techniques for food related to intangible cultural heritage (ICH) through taste and visuals.

         Many ICH items in Hong Kong are related to food. The carnival features various workshops and demonstrations of making techniques for public participation in producing and understanding ICH-related food. Examples include dragon beard’s candy, a traditional sweet food; Sau Fan, a traditional snack and a food offering in villages in the New Territories; glutinous rice dumpling with lye, a festive food of the Dragon Boat Festival; and shrimp paste blocks and shrimp paste, local specialties of Cheung Chau, Tai O and Lamma Island.

         Apart from local traditional food that Hong Kong people are familiar with, there are also demonstrations and experiential activities of the Jiangxi Gannan Hakka pounded tea making technique, a representative item of the national ICH, for public to join.

         The Hakka folk song and Nanyin performances held at the Oi! Lawn are attracting many people. The “Mobile ICH” is also stationed at Oi!. With an exhibition and interactive devices, it incorporates learning into fun games to allow the public to explore the rich content of festive-related Hong Kong ICH items.

         The carnival is one of the programmes of the Hong Kong ICH Month 2025. Tomorrow, there will be demonstrations and workshops on traditional food-making techniques related to ICH, including sweet potato cake, Ching Ming Tsai (Paederia scandens sticky rice dumpling), blown sugar, and basin meal. Traditional food and interesting activities are not to be missed. For details of the “ICH Flavours” Carnival, please visit the website: www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/hk_ich_month_2025_ich_flavours.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Votes Against Motion to Proceed to ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – Senate Republican leaders spent all Saturday struggling to get their own members lined up behind a controversial and unpopular budget reconciliation bill (the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”) that would gut Medicaid to provide a bigger tax cut for the wealthy.  After making a backroom deal late on Saturday night, they finally got 51 of 53 Republicans to agree to advance the measure.

    After the Senate voted 51-49 on the motion to proceed, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

    “Republicans aren’t under any real deadline or time constraint here, they’re just rushing this under cover of darkness because the more people know what is in this bill, the more they hate it.

    “This shameful budget is a prescription to weaken the U.S. economy and our health care system while widening the gap between the haves and have-nots. 

    “It will take nearly one trillion dollars from Medicaid and take away health insurance from millions of Americans.  It will contribute to higher health care prices, bigger bureaucratic hurdles, and undermines the Affordable Care Act.  It is fiscally irresponsible and explodes the national debt.  It’s got tons of tax carveouts for special interests like Big Oil and the NRA gun lobby at the expense of everyday Americans.  Meanwhile, it cancels billions of dollars in shovel-ready renewable energy projects, halting billions of dollars in economic activity and sending utility bills soaring.

    “Budgets are about priorities.  If Republicans actually wanted to help the middle-class, they would have targeted real help to the middle-class.  Instead, they deliberately chose to skew benefits to millionaires, billionaires, and corporations.

    “We need responsible, forward-looking investments in America’s future, not handouts to old-money interests and outdated industries.

    “I oppose this catastrophic bill and will work hard to block it and replace it with a more balanced, measured, and fiscally responsible budget that targets real help to working people, not the ultra-wealthy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: World’s first pure ammonia demonstration vessel makes maiden voyage in China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HEFEI, June 29 (Xinhua) — The world’s first demonstration ship running on clean ammonia fuel, the Anhui, has successfully completed its maiden voyage in Hefei, east China’s Anhui Province, marking a major step forward in the development of green shipping.

    Ammonia, a key raw material for the chemical industry, has a high energy density. Being a carbon-free substance, it produces only water and nitrogen when completely burned. This makes it a very promising fuel for decarbonizing shipping.

    In recent years, several shipping companies in Japan, Norway and other countries have been actively investing in developing ammonia-fueled ships. A 2021 report by the International Energy Agency estimated that up to 45 percent of global marine fuel demand would be met by ammonia by 2050 to achieve a “net zero scenario.” However, ammonia fuel also faces challenges such as difficulty in ignition and combustion instability.

    The ammonia-powered vessel Anhui was jointly developed by the Institute of Energy of Hefei National Comprehensive Science Center and its subsidiary Shenzhen Haixu New Energy Co., Ltd. It is equipped with a 200 kW high-speed gas combustion generator, two 100 kW electric motors and a twin-screw propulsion system. Its full deadweight is 50 tons and its rated speed is 10 knots.

    Wu Dianwu of the aforementioned institute said that the research team has overcome several key technological difficulties. These include plasma ignition of pure ammonia fuel, stable combustion, efficient catalytic cracking of ammonia gas to produce hydrogen, and efficient combustion and combustion control of hydrogen-ammonia fuel mixture in internal combustion engines. In addition, the team has also developed a pure ammonia fuel burner and various catalytic cracking devices for ammonia gas.

    During the maiden voyage, it was possible to achieve stable and complete combustion of pure ammonia fuel, almost zero carbon dioxide emissions and effective control of nitrogen oxides. This confirms the potential for widespread use of hydrogen-ammonia fuel in marine and land transport, industrial boilers and fuel cells, Wu Dianwu noted.

    Wang Junli, secretary general of the China Society of Shipbuilding, said the vessel’s successful voyage marked a milestone in building a clean, low-carbon energy system for waterborne transport. With pure ammonia engines reaching megawatt-class power, there will be broad prospects for their deployment. This is of particular significance in the context of China’s efforts to achieve “dual carbon goals” of peaking carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –