NewzIntel.com

Category: Energy

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – More oil and gas to Europe from the Fram and Troll area – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    26 JUNE 2025 – Equinor and its Fram partners will invest more than NOK 21 billion in a new subsea development. The plan for development and operation was today submitted to the Minister of Energy, Terje Aasland.

    “Fram Sør will contribute to security of energy supply from the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) to Europe. The development will put new oil and gas resources on stream by connecting new infrastructure to existing facilities that provide good and robust profitability. With the host platform Troll C being powered from shore, the production from Fram Sør will have very low emissions. The project will generate activity for the Norwegian supply industry, with an estimated employment effect of 4,500 full-time equivalents (FTEs) during the development period,” says Geir Tungesvik, Equinor’s executive vice president, Projects, Drilling & Procurement.

    The Fram Sør project is a combined development of several discoveries that will export oil and gas via Troll C. Recoverable volumes are estimated at 116 million barrels of oil equivalent, 75 percent of which is oil and 25 percent is gas. Production is scheduled to start at the end of 2029.

    The CO2 intensity for the Fram Sør development is estimated at about 0.5 kg of CO2 per barrel of oil equivalent. The average for the NCS is 8 kg. The industry average is about 16 kg per barrel of oil equivalent (IOGP 2023).

    Kjetil Hove, Equinor’s executive vice president for Exploration & Production Norway
    (Photo: Ole Jørgen Bratland / Equinor)

    “We have done a thorough job maturing the new resources discovered in the Fram and Troll area in recent years. Fram Sør shows the importance of area solutions and close collaboration between partners and authorities in order to realise the resource values on a mature NCS. We have a large portfolio of projects that will phase in discoveries to our producing fields. Equinor expects to put more than 50 such projects on stream by 2035,” says Kjetil Hove, Equinor’s executive vice president for Exploration & Production Norway.

    In the autumn of 2019, Equinor and partners made a discovery of oil and gas in the Fram area of the North Sea. This discovery, called Echino South, supported the belief that more oil could be found, and contributed to nine discoveries made in the Troll-Fram area over a four-year period. In the spring of 2021, Equinor and partners made the Blasto discovery. Together with two smaller discoveries in previous years, Echino South and Blasto form the basis for Fram Sør.

    The field development is also technologically groundbreaking. As the first on the NCS, Fram Sør will use all-electric Christmas trees that eliminate the need for hydraulic fluid supplied from the platform and improve monitoring capabilities of the subsea equipment. It is an efficient and reliable system for operating subsea Christmas trees, as well as reducing the risk of environmental impact.

    The Fram Sør investments will contribute to the Norwegian supply industry both in the development and operation phases. A ripple effect study conducted by Kunnskapsparken in Bodø indicates an employment effect of 4,500 full-time equivalents in Norway through the development period. Most of the suppliers have a Norwegian invoice address, but some of the construction takes place abroad.

    In total, the contracts will have a value of about NOK 18 billion.

    All contracts will be subject to regulatory approval.

    Fram partners: Equinor Energy AS (45%), Vår Energi ASA (40%) and INPEX Idemitsu Norge AS (15%).

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Health and Social Care Secretary speech on health inequalities

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Health and Social Care Secretary speech on health inequalities

    Wes Streeting spoke at Blackpool Football club on reducing health inequalities.

    Thank you very much, Simon. And thanks to all of you for coming to join us this morning here at Bloomfield Road. 

    I just want to echo, first of all, what Simon said about the club and about the impact it has through the trust of people in the community, particularly in terms of the work it does with young people, giving people opportunities or better life chances. 

    It’s a reminder that it’s something that government has to do, and I believe very strongly we can’t do without a good and active government. 

    But it’s also a reminder that whether we’re talking about creating health or education and life chances, the government can’t do it on our own. 

    And if we try to, we won’t have as much impact as if we work with partners. 

    So I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone here at the club for the work that you do as a proper community-rooted club. 

    This is a town that occupies a special place in my heart through a lot of happy memories from visits to Pleasure Beach as a kid. 

    I’ve got family up the road in Preston, too. And National Union of Students conferences in Winter Gardens during my student years, some of which I can still remember. 

    But as Health and Social Care Secretary, Blackpool is on my mind for less happy reasons: its health outcomes, which are not only poor, but unjust.   

    England is not an especially large nation. Yet the inequalities between us are huge.  

    Travel 30 miles down the road to Ribble Valley and men live for 8 years longer. 

    A baby girl born here in Blackpool will live 7 years less than one born in Wokingham.

    She will fall into ill health 18 years earlier in life. 

    As the report by the Chief Medical Officer on health in coastal communities puts it, in many working-class towns like this one, people are growing old before their time.  

    [Political content removed] 

    And the gap between the health of the poorest and wealthiest parts of our country have widened. 

    These stark health inequalities are not just down to the health service alone.  

    They are also caused by poverty, a lack of good work, damp housing, dirty air, and the sporting, travel and cultural opportunities which are afforded to the privileged few being denied to the many. 

    It is why I have been driving the NHS so hard to reform, improve productivity and cut waste.  

    Because every pound spent on diagnosing and treating illness is a pound that can’t be spent on tackling the causes of ill health.  

    In the coming days, we will be publishing our 10 year plan, which will set out how this mission-driven government will tackle illness, keep disease at bay, and reduce the health inequalities that shame our society.  

    Our 10 year plan will not just be a plan for the NHS, but a plan for health.  

    It will tackle illness at source through a whole-society approach, with a shift in focus from treating sickness to preventing it in the first place. 

    Already this government is taking action. The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, is rolling out primary school breakfast clubs and free school lunches to millions of children, so they walk into the classroom with hungry minds not hungry bellies.  

    Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister, is building a new generation of homes, and along with our Business Secretary, Jonny Reynolds, introducing sick pay from day one in the job. 

    The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has given workers on the minimum wage a £1,400 pay rise this year. 

    The Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall, is giving disabled people the right to work, so they can take up a job opportunity, knowing if things go wrong they can go back to the support they had before without the jeopardy or fear of missing out or being back to square one.   

    Our Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, is extending the Warm Home Discount, helping keep millions more households warm this winter. 

    And our Environment Secretary, Steve Reed, is cleaning up our rivers and seas from sewage. 

    So, you can see that just those steps we’ve already taken less than a year in office that Keir Starmer’s government is determined to lift people out of poverty, tackle inequality and improve the health of our society. 

    [political content removed] 

    Today, I want to set out how our reforms to the NHS will fundamentally improve the health of working-class communities. 

    NHS founded on principle of equity 

    The National Health Service was founded to end grotesque inequality in access to healthcare.  

    Before 1948, working people avoided the doctor unless they absolutely needed to see one, because of the costs being so prohibitive.  

    Diseases such as rickets, scurvy and diphtheria were common amongst children. 

    The solution was revolutionary – universal healthcare, publicly funded, free at the point of need.  

    And as the NHS’s founder, my predecessor, Nye Bevan, promised, the NHS lifted the shadow from millions of homes and eradicated the fear of illness from people’s hearts.  

    It has been one of the great levellers of our society. The greatest institution this country has ever built. 

    But as the NHS was neglected and left to decline after 2010, it contributed toward the widening gap between rich and poor. 

    Two-tier healthcare 

    Waiting times soared, and a 2-tier healthcare system emerged, where those who can afford it pay to go private, and everyone else was being left behind. 

    [political content removed] 

    The NHS was never intended to just be a safety net for those who cannot afford to pay.  

    Such a system would be doomed to ever-declining quality care. 

    Taxpayers would question why they continue to pay for a service they don’t use.  

    Inevitably, the NHS would become a poor service for poor people. 

    Since its foundation, we have always aspired to an NHS that is universal in provision so that everyone receives high-quality care.  

    [Political content removed] 

    With our Plan for Change, the NHS is on the road to recovery. Since the general election, we have: 

    • recruited an extra 1,700 GPs to the frontline 

    • delivered an extra 3.6 million appointments for planned care and delivered on our promised 2 million in our first year 

    • diagnosed an extra 187,000 suspected cancer patients on time 

    • cut waiting lists in the month of April for the first time in 17 years 

    • cut waiting lists to their lowest level in 2 years 

    • cut waiting lists by almost a quarter of a million patients

    Each one of those patients we have taken off the waiting list is free from pain and in some cases disability, because of the decisions this government has taken. 

    I’m not here to do victory laps. I know that for the almost a quarter of a million people who have received faster treatment, there are more than 7 million cases still waiting.  

    We’ve done a lot but there’s so much more to do. Especially for towns like Blackpool. 

    Tackling inequalities 

    While there are so many social determinants of ill-health that need to be addressed, the fact is that the NHS doesn’t do enough to address the unjust, unequal way in which illness presents itself in our country.  

    In fact, it sometimes entrenches it. 

    General practice was neglected and declined across the board for more than a decade [political content removed].  

    But that doesn’t explain why there are 300 more patients per GP in the poorest communities, compared with the richest. 

    As I spoke about on Monday, far too many parents and their babies have been failed by maternity services.  

    But failing services don’t explain why Black women are almost 3 times more likely to die from childbirth than White women. 

    Black men are twice as likely to get prostate cancer than White men.  

    But given we know the risk is greater, and given we know how to catch cancer early, that doesn’t explain these sorts of inequalities given the evidence is there. 

    For those in greatest need often receive the worst-quality healthcare.  

    This fact flies in the face of the values upon which the NHS was founded.  

    A core ambition of our 10 year plan is to restore the promise of the NHS, to provide first class healthcare for everyone in our country. 

    Whoever you are, whatever your background, wherever you live. 

    NHS solutions 

    [Political content removed] 

    It has fallen to this government to rebuild the NHS for all of us.  

    We are starting where the need is greatest. 

    [Political content removed] 

    We’ve sent crack teams of top clinicians to hospitals around the country, where the highest numbers of people are off work, off sick, to help them cut waiting lists faster. Therefore, getting people not just back to health but back to work. 

    We are delivering on our manifesto commitment to fill in dental deserts, by paying dentists extra to come to work in underserved areas. 

    And today I can announce that we will go further. 

    In recent years, billions of pounds have been put aside for NHS trusts who let their spending get out of control and run up deficits.  

    It’s essentially a bailout fund for poor financial management.  

    I am working with Jim Mackey, Chief Executive of the NHS, to end that culture of rewards for failure. 

    Thanks to the reforms we’ve made to bear down on wasteful spending, the fund will not go to trusts which run deficits this year. 

    We can reinvest that money in the frontline, so it isn’t spent on rewarding poor performance but to improving poor health. 

    The £2.2 billion will fund more effective care – such as innovative medicines, modern technology and services that keep people out of hospital – all going to the places where they are most needed. 

    GP practices serving more deprived areas receive 10% less funding per needs-adjusted patient than poorer parts of our country and have 300 more patients per GP as a result.  

    So, working with the British Medical Association, we will review how health need is reflected in funding for general practice (known to the wonks in the room as the Carr-Hill formula), with a sharp focus on money following need. 

    Where health needs are greatest and GPs fewest, we will prioritise investment to rebuild your NHS and rebuild the health of your community. 

    NHS as anchor institution 

    I said in my first week in this job, the NHS has a part to play in dragging our country out of the sluggish growth and low productivity the government inherited. 

    It is the biggest employer in many towns in England.  

    In coastal towns like Blackpool, where far more people are off work due to long-term sickness, the NHS has a dual role to play.  

    Not just getting patients off waiting lists and back to work, although we are doing that. 

    The health service should also act as an engine of local economic growth, giving opportunities in training and work to local people. 

    Working in the NHS is rightly seen as a high status, secure job.  

    But many people see it as unachievable and out of their reach. 

    On a visit to King George Hospital in my own neck of the woods, I saw first-hand a brilliant programme, Project SEARCH, that supports 17 to 19 year olds who are learning disabled and/or autistic, with internships that give them experience of a wide range of paying jobs, as well as coaching on things like preparing a CV and interview skills.  

    One of them, Muhammed Patel, shared with me how much he had loved the experience and hoped for a career in the NHS.  

    Months later, he messaged me on Instagram to tell me he’s got a job.  

    He’s not the only one.  

    Project SEARCH aims to get every young person on their programme a job in the NHS or with another employer and is succeeding.  

    So today we are launching a new pilot, backed by £5 million, to help recruit an additional 1,000 people to the NHS from areas worst hit by unemployment. 

    The programme will offer a ladder into the world of work for people who find it hardest to break out of unemployment, including over 50s, unpaid carers and disabled people. 

    They will gain the skills needed in health and care, alongside support with job applications and work placements, kickstarting what will hopefully be a long-term and rewarding career in our health and care sectors, where they will more than repay the investment we’re making in them today. 

    Patient power revolution 

    Finally, our 10 year plan will address one of the starkest health inequalities, which is often written out of this conversation. 

    It is the unequal access in our society to information, choice and control over our own healthcare. 

    When I was diagnosed with kidney cancer, colleagues in Parliament asked where I was being treated and who my surgeon was.  

    They just wanted to make sure I was receiving the best possible care.  

    Luckily, the NHS had already assigned me a world-class surgeon who saved my life.  

    But those are questions that my mum, a cleaner here in Lancashire, would never think to ask and would certainly never ask. 

    When the wealthy receive a diagnosis, they already know the best surgeons and can push to get the best care.  

    But working-class people can’t.  

    If the wealthy are told to wait months for treatment, they can shop around. But working-class people can’t.  

    And if the wealthy want instant information about their own health, they can pay for an app that allows them to speak to a doctor over the phone, 24/7.  

    But working-class people can’t. 

    This is not just grossly unfair. It presents an existential risk to the health service. 

    More than any other age group, this generation of young people are prepared to opt-out of the NHS.  

    Last year the biggest increase in private hospital admissions was for people under the age of 40.  

    Almost half of young people say they would consider going private if they needed care.  

    The NHS feels increasingly slow and outdated to the generation that organises their lives at the touch of a button.  

    If you get annoyed at Deliveroo not getting your dinner to you in less than an hour, how will you feel being told to wait a year for a knee operation? 

    A failure to modernise risks this generation walking away from the NHS, first for their healthcare and then with their taxes.  

    People won’t accept paying higher and higher taxes to fund a health service that no longer meets their needs. 

    And the lack of control people feel over their own lives is made worse by an analogue, ‘computer says no’, NHS. 

    We can only close this inequality and shut down this risk to the NHS’s future through a revolution in patient power.  

    The ambition of our 10 year plan is nothing less than to provide NHS patients with the same ease, convenience, power, choice and control that’s afforded to private patients. 

    The good news is that technology gives us the opportunity to democratise healthcare in a way never before possible.  

    It can empower patients with choice and control and make managing our healthcare as convenient as doing our shopping or banking online.  

    Technology can be the great leveller. 

    Look at what Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert, has done for personal finances.  

    For ordinary people who sign up to his newsletter – and I’m one of them – who could never afford their own financial adviser, it is simple and easy to make your hard-earned money go further – if you’ve got access to the right advice.  

    Our 10 year plan for health will do the same for NHS patients, giving them easy access to information to help them improve their health. 

    We will introduce a tool on the NHS App called My Companion.  

    It will provide all patients with information about their health condition, if they have one, or their procedure, if they need one.  

    It will get patients answers to questions they forgot or felt too embarrassed to ask in a face-to-face appointment.  

    So, the next time you’re at an appointment and you’re told something that doesn’t sound right, you will have at your fingertips the information you need to speak up confidently. 

    And we will give every patient meaningful choice, through a new tool called My Choices.  

    It will show patients everything from their nearest pharmacy to the best hospital for heart surgery across the country, with patients able to choose based on their preference.  

    If NHS providers know that their waiting times, health outcomes of their patients, and patient satisfaction ratings will all be publicly available, they will be inspired to respond to patient choice, raise their game and deliver services that patients value. 

    Not everyone will want a choice.  

    Many just want their local hospital.  

    That’s fine and will always be a default option.  

    But we know that at the root of many inequalities in health outcomes is a failure to listen to patients.  

    A ‘one size fits all’ approach often misses the distinct needs of women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds or people living in rural communities.  

    And we will only deal with the grotesque health inequalities in our society by empowering all patients. 

    Conclusion 

    In the months leading up to the founding of the NHS, Nye Bevan said: 

    For a while it may appear that everything is going wrong.  

    As a matter of fact, everything will be going right because people will be able to complain.  

    They complain now, but no one hears about it. 

    He promised that a National Health Service would put a “megaphone to the mouth of every complainant, so that it can be heard all over the country.”

    [political content removed] 

    We have always believed that public services exist to serve the interests of the pupil, the passenger, the patient above all else.    

    And the driving force behind the work this government does every day is the principle that whatever class you come from, everyone deserves world-class services. 

    We expect nothing less from what we expect for ourselves, and that is why we’re determined to get our NHS back on its feet, to make sure it’s fit for the future and put power in the hands of every patient. Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Oando Posts 172% Growth in Gross Profit in Q1 2025 Financial Report as Crude Oil Production Increases 132%


    Download logo

    Oando (www.OandoPLC.com), one of Africa’s leading indigenous energy solutions providers, has ended the first quarter of the year on a high with the publication of ₦933 billion revenue in its Q1 2025 unaudited results. This performance comes in the wake of its recent release of its 2024 FY Audited Financial Statement, where it reported a 44% year-on-year revenue increase to ₦4.1 trillion compared to ₦2.9 trillion in FY 2023 and a 267% increase in Profit-After-Tax to ₦220 billion.

    Oando, like a few indigenous oil and gas companies in Nigeria, who keyed into the International Oil Companies (IOCs) divestment of onshore assets, has begun reaping the gains of its acquisition of Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) from Italian oil giant, Eni.

    An analysis of Oando’s financials shows that the company’s turnover grew by 2% year-on-year to ₦933 billion in Q1 2025 compared to ₦915 billion in Q1 2024. Additionally, the company posted a 172% increase of ₦85 billion in Gross Profit in Q1 2025 compared to ₦31 billion in Q1 2024, reflecting stronger E & P margins. In its upstream business, crude oil production rose 132% to 11,369 bopd, gas volumes grew by 56% to 25,185 boepd, and NGL production increased 30% to 1,040 bpd. The company recorded zero lost-time injuries (LTIs) and 12.3 million LTI-free hours, underscoring continued HSE excellence. In addition, the company achieved average daily production of 37,595 boepd (within guidance), up 72% year-on-year, driven by the full consolidation of NAOC assets and well reactivations. The company was awarded operatorship of Block KON 13 in Angola, marking its strategic entry into the Kwanza Basin, Angola and expanding Oando’s African upstream footprint.

    Speaking on the Q1, 2025 financial results, Wale Tinubu CON, Group Chief Executive, Oando PLC remarks  “Q1 2025 marked a strong start to the year for us, with a 72% year-on-year increase in production volumes as a result of the successful integration of the NAOC assets into our portfolio, improved asset reliability and the reactivation of shut-in wells, reflecting early wins from our focus on operational efficiency and disciplined execution.

    Beyond Nigeria, we have expanded our regional presence with our entry into Angola’s Kwanza Basin marking a major milestone in scaling our upstream footprint across Africa. Similarly, being named preferred bidder for the Guaracara Refinery in Trinidad and Tobago demonstrates the strength of our integrated business model, our growing role in the Afro-Caribbean landscape, and a reflection of our evolution into a more geographically diversified energy company.”

    There is evidence of a trend in the upward financial trajectory in the industry, as Seplat recorded revenues of N1.228 trillion, a 350% increase. Similarly, Aradel reported revenues of ₦199.9 billion, up 97.6%, and Profit after Tax of ₦34.2 billion, up 55.3%.

    In its downstream trading business, Oando Trading reported six (6) crude oil cargos (5.96 MMbbl) traded in Q1 2025, up from four (4) cargos (4.86 MMbbl) in Q1 2024, driven by stronger offtake execution.

    In its renewable energy business, Oando Clean Energy (OCEL) recorded 53,941 EV rides in Q1 2025 and 42,779 kg of CO₂ emissions averted through two (2) operational e-buses under the electric mobility programme operating in Lagos.  It also successfully published Nigeria’s National Wind Resource Capacity Report, identifying state-level wind potential across the country.

    Speaking on the outlook for 2025, Wale Tinubu CON, commented “Following a transformative 2024, our priority is to maximize the value of our expanded upstream portfolio through targeted infrastructure upgrades, rig-less well interventions and an extensive drilling programme in the second half of the year. These activities are now enabled by the working capital we have secured, giving us financial flexibility to accelerate execution. We are also taking decisive action to restructure our balance sheet towards restoring financial resilience.”

    Oando is targeting a full-year production of 30–40 kboepd maintained, driven by a balanced capital programme of three (3) new wells, nine (9) workovers, and six (6) rig-less interventions. The company is also projecting capex of $250–270 million focused on drilling, infrastructure, and ESG projects, with a 20% cost reduction goal. The company has set a trading guidance for its Trading subsidiary of 25 – 35 MMbbl crude oil; 750,000 – 1,000,000 MT refined products. For its renewable energy arm, Oando targets the deployment of 50 electric buses and progress its solar PV module assembly plant toward Final Investment Decision (FID).

    These plans are strengthened by the company’s recent announcement of the successful upsizing of its reserve-based lending (“RBL2”) facility to $375 million. This critical financing will significantly improve the Company’s ability to achieve its production target of 100,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) and 1.5 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of gas per day by the end of 2029.

    These Q1 2025 results reinforce the growing momentum among indigenous operators in Nigeria’s upstream sector, who are beginning to demonstrate operational efficiency and financial resilience following recent asset acquisitions. With a 2% rise in revenue, a remarkable 172% surge in gross profit to ₦85 billion, and a 72% increase in average daily production, all within guidance, Oando’s performance signals not just the viability of the transition from IOC to indigenous ownership, but also the increasing capacity of local players to deliver value and drive long-term growth in Nigeria’s energy landscape.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Oando PLC.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Northern Ocean Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid African Market Expansion

    Africa’s premier energy event, African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies, will welcome Arne Jacobsen, CEO of international drilling contractor Northern Ocean, as a featured speaker. As operator of two of the world’s most advanced offshore drilling rigs, Northern Ocean’s participation is vital to discussions on Africa’s offshore hydrocarbons potential and the strategic role that service companies play in unlocking that potential. 

    Under Jacobsen’s leadership, Northern Ocean has expanded its footprint across Africa with its Deepsea Mira and Deepsea Bollsta rigs supporting major offshore projects since 2022. Notably, the Deepsea Mira played a key role in appraising TotalEnergies’ landmark Venus oil discovery offshore Namibia in 2024 and continued operations in the Orange Basin with the Tamboti-1X exploration well in early 2025. 

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event. 

    In Q2 2025, the Deepsea Bollsta completed a one-well contract with a Chevron subsidiary in Namibia. Currently undergoing maintenance, the rig will remain stationed in Africa throughout 2025, underscoring Northern Ocean’s commitment to expanding its presence in the continent’s upstream oil and gas sector. In Ghana, Northern Ocean is advancing its strategic partnership with Springfield Group, following a successful well test on the Afina 1X appraisal well in Q4 2024. Plans are underway for a long-term field development contract utilizing the Deepsea Bollsta, expected to commence by mid-2025. 

    “Increasing offshore exploration is key to unlocking Africa’s vast energy resources and driving sustainable economic growth across the continent. Northern Ocean’s advanced drilling capabilities and steadfast commitment will play a critical role in transforming Africa’s estimated reserves into tangible development outcomes that benefit millions,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.  

    As major operators prepare to scale up exploration activities in South Africa and Namibia through 2025 and beyond, Northern Ocean is well-positioned to capitalize on this growth. AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies provides an ideal forum for Jacobsen to engage with governments, national oil companies and private sector leaders to forge long-term partnerships and secure new contracts. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Graduation of the Presidential Program: Polytechnic University Trained 60 Top Managers for Russian Industry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    A ceremony of awarding diplomas to graduates of the Presidential Program for training management personnel for organizations of the national economy of the Russian Federation in St. Petersburg was held in Smolny. This program is implemented by Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University on the basis of the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of SPbPU, which is part of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” (AES).

    The program is conducted in leading Russian universities on the terms of co-financing from the state budget and is aimed at achieving the key goals of the national project of the Russian Federation “Digital Economy” to ensure technological independence in the field of end-to-end digital technologies that are competitive at the global level, and national security. Students are enrolled based on the results of a competitive selection within the framework of regional quotas. The customer of the program on the part of the state is the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, the executor is the Federal Resource Center subordinate to it.

    This year, the program’s graduates included 60 heads of research centers and large companies from St. Petersburg, the Leningrad Region and Samara, such as Sberbank, Fuel and Energy Complex of St. Petersburg, Rosseti Lenenergo, Gazprom Transgaz Samara, Concern TsNII Elektropribor, Central Marine Design Bureau Almaz, Gazstroyproekt, Central Research Institute Electron, National Research Center Kurchatov Institute – PNPI, Krylov State Research Center, Central Research and Experimental Design Institute of Robotics and Technical Cybernetics, Corporate University of St. Petersburg, etc.

    Training at SPbPU within the framework of the Presidential program is conducted in two areas: “Enterprise Management in the Context of Digital Transformation” for senior and middle managers implementing large-scale projects, and “Innovation Management in the Context of the Digital Economy” for specialists and managers implementing operational management of enterprise activities.

    The main objectives of the program: development of skills for implementing innovations in the context of the digital economy and managing the digital transformation of a company, their adaptation to the requirements of the digital industry and digital production, the formation of a system of knowledge on the use of end-to-end digital technologies, a relevant individual leadership style, and management thinking of the 21st century.

    Throughout training period Since September 2024, students have been acquiring new knowledge through lectures and practical classes, trainings, and also participated in meetings with representatives of the real business sector, completed practical training in the laboratories of the SPbPU PISh and at leading enterprises in St. Petersburg. The educational process widely used modern hardware and software, interactive technologies, including the use of computer business simulators “New Industrial Challenge” and “Lean Manufacturing”. Classes were held in modern classrooms, fully equipped for video conferencing and training.

    These digital simulators are included ina range of innovative tools for training and assessment of competencies, developed by the SPbPU PISh on the CML-Bench®.EDU Digital Platform, which represents a separate educational direction Digital platform for the development and application of digital twins CML-Bench®. Since its launch, the developed digital simulators have been highly appreciated by experts and have received a number of awards and prizes. Thus, on December 12, 2024, the computer business simulator “New Industrial Challenge” won the All-Russian competition of best practices in management education among business schools. The jury members noted the digital simulator in the nomination “Development of Leaders” under the Presidential Program.

    The educational process took place in a convenient percentage ratio of three formats for the students: in-person, distance and mixed. The program participants also improved their skills in configuring management and project teams, developed projects relevant to specific organizations aimed at solving business problems.

    Graduates received diplomas of professional retraining of the established form, which give the right to engage in management activities regardless of basic education, and badges of SPbPU graduates. The best graduates were awarded memorable gifts from the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”. After training in the Presidential Program, managers can undergo an internship at leading enterprises in Russia and in foreign companies of the EAEU, SCO and BRICS countries. This is an opportunity to apply new competencies in practice, study best practices and establish new business contacts.

    The head of the Presidential Program at the Polytechnic University, professor of the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the SPbPU PISh Olga Kolosova summed up the results of the training:

    This academic year, a new mandatory requirement was introduced for the participants of the Presidential Program: their individual projects must be related to the main priorities of the development of the Russian Federation. The students had to create socially significant projects aimed at achieving technological leadership of our country. I would like to emphasize that SPbPU graduates successfully coped with this difficult task. In addition, I thank our graduates for their active life position, responsibility towards the business, society and themselves personally. This year, despite being scattered across the regions, you managed to unite into a team of like-minded people, professionals in their field. On behalf of the entire team, we wish you further success!

    The students thanked the teachers and developers of the Presidential Program for the Training of Management Personnel at the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the SPbPU PISh and shared their impressions.

    “The main result of the program was the formation of a systemic approach to management activities,” said Alexander Yazhuk, Head of the Interplant Cooperation Department of the Central Research and Experimental Design Institute of Robotics and Technical Cybernetics. “No less valuable were the new professional contacts and friendly connections acquired at lectures, seminars and practical classes. The presidential program became for me not only a source of knowledge and skills, but also a platform for forming a professional community. It taught me to think strategically, manage effectively, build communication and use modern tools. I would recommend this program to anyone who strives for professional growth and is ready to actively develop. The program gives a powerful boost to a career, expands horizons and opens up new opportunities, and also allows you to find like-minded people and make valuable acquaintances, which was very important for me personally. This is an investment in yourself, which pays off not only in knowledge, but also in new connections and opportunities.”

    The program was also mastered by representatives of the departments of the Ecosystem of Technological Development of SPbPU. Head of the Intellectual Property Management Department SPbPU Technology Transfer Center Ismail Kadiev spoke about his training under the Presidential Program in the direction of “Innovation Management in the Digital Economy”, during which he worked on a project to develop a digital mechanism for managing intellectual property:

    The project is a step-by-step substantiated plan for the implementation of a digital platform for intellectual property management in higher education institutions. The main objective of the project is to digitalize the processes of ensuring legal protection of the results of intellectual activity and commercialization of rights to intellectual property of SPbPU. The implementation of the platform will speed up the process of ensuring legal protection of the results of intellectual activity and increase the receipt of funds for the commercialization of rights to intellectual property. I would like to express my gratitude to the head of the implementation of the Presidential Program at SPbPU and my academic supervisor, SPbPU professor Olga Vladimirovna Kolosova, for her mentoring and professionalism, and to the entire teaching staff for their assistance in preparing the project and their attention and support throughout the training.

    Letters of gratitude for active participation in the implementation of the Presidential Program from the Committee on Labor and Employment of the Population of the Leningrad Region were received by the employees of the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the SPbPU PISh: the head of the implementation of the Presidential Program at SPbPU, Professor Olga Kolosova, Acting Director Artur Kireev, as well as the leading manager, associate professor of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies of the SPbPU PISh Olesya Leonova. In addition, Olga Kolosova received gratitude from the Federal Resource Center. The Administration of the Governor of St. Petersburg noted with a letter of gratitude the contribution of the senior lecturer of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies of the SPbPU PISh Vladislav Tereshchenko to the training of students of the Presidential Program.

    Specialists from other Polytechnic departments also received awards for their participation in the implementation of the Presidential Program. Associate Professor of the Higher School of Public Administration of SPbPU Tamara Selentyeva was awarded a letter of thanks from the Administration of the Governor of St. Petersburg. The Corporate University of St. Petersburg awarded the Director of the Center for Corporate and Network Additional Professional Programs of SPbPU Tatyana Savekina and the Head of the Directorate of Basic Educational Programs of SPbPU Nadezhda Grashchenko.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NDA launches pioneering robotics partnership to manage nuclear waste

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    News story

    NDA launches pioneering robotics partnership to manage nuclear waste

    Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group announces pioneering partnership to deploy innovative technology to manage radioactive waste.

    Demo robotic arm to sort and segregate waste

    The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group has today announced a pioneering partnership which will see innovative technology deployed for the first time on a nuclear site to remotely and autonomously sort and segregate radioactive waste.

    The NDA has committed to invest up to £9.5m in the project over four years, which is a collaboration with Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), Sellafield and Nuclear Waste Services (NWS).

    The project, Auto-SAS, will be delivered jointly by AtkinsRéalis and Createc, working in partnership as ARCTEC to combine their joint experience and track record of developing automated systems and robotics in nuclear. They will take learning from the solutions they developed in an earlier innovation competition to develop a system which will be deployed on the NRS Oldbury, former nuclear site.

    Melanie Brownridge, NDA Chief R&D Officer, said:

    This is a hugely exciting project for us, using robotics to autonomously sort and categorise waste and has the potential to save hundreds of millions of pounds in waste storage and disposal costs.

    It’s a great example of collaboration across the NDA group and supply chain to develop transformative solutions to decommissioning challenges which enable us to deliver our mission safely and efficiently.

    Our ambition is to use what we learn here to benefit multiple sites in the NDA group and potentially beyond.

    Manual segregation of radioactive waste is complex and hazardous due to the nature of the material, so caution is exercised and where waste is mixed it’s currently all categorised as Intermediate Level Waste (ILW) or Plutonium Contaminated Material (PCM) rather than being sorted by type or radioactivity.

    Using robotics provides the ability to use technology to more accurately categorise the waste, avoiding using more costly waste routes when they aren’t required, while also removing people from hazardous environments and giving them the opportunity to develop new skills.

    Energy Minister, Michael Shanks, said:

    This cutting-edge partnership represents exactly the kind of innovation the UK needs to lead the world in safe, efficient nuclear decommissioning. It will put the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority at the forefront of using robotics to sort nuclear waste. Not only will this help protect and upskill workers, but by investing in technologies like this, we can ensure better value for taxpayers and potentially save hundreds of millions of pounds.

    Auto-SAS will be deployed on the NRS Oldbury site in South Gloucestershire initially and will be used to separate low level waste from intermediate level waste which has been retrieved from the vaults on site – created when the power station was operational.

    Andrew Forrest, NRS Chief Technical Officer, commented:

    This collaboration brings a game changing opportunity to accelerate our waste management and help deliver the decommissioning mission sooner, safely and cost effectively. I know the Oldbury team is excited to be part of the project and be a centre of innovation for the NDA group.

    The ARCTEC system will use a combination of sensors to categorise the waste before robotic manipulators grasp and consign waste items to the most appropriate waste route.

    Robert Marwood, Head of Robotics and Technology for AtkinsRéalis said on behalf of ARCTEC:

    This is an ambitious project with the potential to automate a time-consuming process and develop a scalable system that segregates hazardous materials safely and efficiently.

    AtkinsRéalis and Createc have a strong track record in developing and deploying advanced robotic systems in nuclear decommissioning. We are excited to be able to combine this expertise to collaborate and help the NDA achieve effective and optimised waste management for the UK’s legacy nuclear sites.

    The ambition is to transfer learning to support future deployments at other NDA group sites, for example Sellafield.

    Rav Chunilal, Head of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence at Sellafield Ltd, said:

    At Sellafield we’ve experienced first-hand how robotics and autonomous systems can revolutionise nuclear operations.

    Auto-SAS builds on that momentum, protecting our people and unlocking new levels of precision and efficiency in waste categorisation. And it has great potential to set a new standard for waste management across the NDA group.

    Gareth Garrs, Head of Waste Inventory and Compliance at Nuclear Waste Services, said:

    This is another strong example of collaboration across the NDA group, with NWS providing waste management advice and expertise to the nuclear industry around future waste disposals.

    With the increased deployment of these types of innovative technologies, NWS brings unique expertise in the management of radioactive waste which will ensure we deliver the significant benefits in terms of safety and efficiency.

    The project is being undertaken in two phases. Phase 1 runs from June 2025 to August 2027 and will deliver a fully operational system in an inactive environment. Phase 2 will deliver an active demonstration of the system at Oldbury.

    To find out more about this project and previous competitions on Autonomous sort and segregation of nuclear waste visit: Five UK companies have progressed through to the next phase of a £5.5 million radioactive waste segregation competition. – GOV.UK or watch: ISOSort – Sorting and Segregating Nuclear Waste.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists create a “digital core” for oil companies

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Novosibirsk State University is the lead organization of a consortium that won a 210 million ruble grant to develop digital core methods, an innovative tool that will help the Russian oil industry improve the efficiency of extracting hard-to-recover oil and gas reserves. The research will be conducted using the latest synchrotron, the Siberian Ring Photon Source (SKIF), located in the science city of Koltsovo.

    Modern oil production increasingly encounters so-called hard-to-recover reserves — oil hidden in geological formations with extremely low permeability. For such formations, it is especially important to understand all the features of oil flow during its production. The key role here is played by core research — samples of deep-layer rocks taken during well drilling. Two approaches are usually used: experimental (laboratory core research using special equipment) and mathematical modeling, during which a “digital twin” of the core is built. The basis of the digital core is detailed models that are built based on X-ray tomography data from real samples. The more accurate the X-ray research methods, the better the mathematical models can be built.

    The project, implemented within the framework of the won grant, will be a continuation of research in the field of digital core, which was launched within the framework of the Synchrotron Radiation for Oil and Gas Technologies consortium, the agreement on the creation of which was signed in August 2023 at the international forum of technological development “Technoprom”. In 2024, Skoltech joined the consortium. On the part of NSU, the preliminary work on this project was financed within the framework of the strategic project “Scientific Engineering” Priority 2030 programs.

    The key element of the project is the use of synchrotron radiation, a powerful source of X-rays that allows opaque objects to be “seen through” at high speed and in detail. Unlike conventional laboratory X-ray installations, the synchrotron produces a beam that is orders of magnitude more intense and focused. The SKIF Center for Collective Use, which is currently being prepared for launch, will become one of the most modern installations of its kind in the world.

    — SKIF makes it possible to observe microscopic processes inside the rock in real time. This is a real revolution in geological and oil research, — noted the director of the Gazpromneft-NSU Scientific and Educational Center, professor of the Russian Academy of Sciences Sergey Golovin.

    The NSU project is being implemented as part of a consortium of seven organizations, including Tomsk Polytechnic University, the Institute of Hydrodynamics SB RAS, the Institute of Geology and Mineralogy SB RAS, the SKIF Collective Use Center, and the KI Research Center. The project has three main areas: development of synchrotron core measurement methods, creation of specialized research cells, and an educational program. Continuing education courses, work with students, and even schoolchildren are planned.

    As a result of the project, new scientific methods will be developed, patents will be protected, articles will be published, and personnel for the high-tech oil industry will be trained. But most importantly, a real tool will appear that can accelerate the implementation of new approaches to oil production in difficult conditions.

    Work on the “digital core” is scheduled to take three years. Funding was provided by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation as part of the federal program for the development of synchrotron and neutron research.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly questions Secretary Kennedy’s decision to reverse COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for pregnant women, children

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (Il-02) forcefully questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. today as he appeared before the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee. She challenged his guidance change, announced through a video on X, ending COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for pregnant women and children.

    “It is clear that Health Secretary Kennedy received no serious input from medical experts in his unilateral decision to reverse COVID-19 vaccine recommendations,” said Rep. Kelly. “What concerns me is his lack of care for the consequences of his decision. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to COVID – we saw that firsthand just a couple years ago when maternal deaths spiked during the pandemic.  Vaccines are safe, effective, and the best medicine to prevent outbreaks.”

    “Secretary Kennedy’s actions are proof that he is not fit for the job,” continued Rep. Kelly. “To the American people, take what Secretary Kennedy said to heart: do not take medical advice from him.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Trump wants more drones and missiles, fewer F-35s in $893 billion budget request

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump wants a pay raise for troops, more high-tech missiles and drones in next year’s defense budget, while cutting Navy jobs, and buying fewer ships and fighter jets to save money, according to budget materials posted Wednesday.

    At $892.6 billion, the defense and national security budget request is flat compared with this year.

    The budget, which also includes nuclear weapons-related activities carried out by the Department of Energy and increases funding for homeland security, puts Trump’s mark on the military by pulling funds away from weaponry and services to fund his priorities.

    The White House said the funding will be used to deter Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific, and revitalize the defense industrial base.

    Most of the funding for Trump’s marquee Golden Dome missile defense shield was included in a separate budget request and is not part of the latest proposal sent to Congress.

    In the 2026 budget Trump requested fewer F-35 jets made by Lockheed Martin LMT.N and only three warships. Procurement of a Virginia-class made by General Dynamics and Huntington Ingalls Industries and 15 other ships are expected to be included in a separate appropriation bill, the Navy said.

    The budget asks for a 3.8% pay raise for troops, but also trims costs by retiring older weaponry including ships and planes that are more expensive to operate. Under the plan, the Navy will reduce its civilian employee workforce by 7,286 people.

    Compared to Biden’s budget from his last year in office, which had asked for 68 F-35 jets in fiscal 2025, Trump’s fiscal 2026 request seeks only 47 of the fighter jets.

    The budget has already sparked debate on Capitol Hill where the House Appropriations Committee’s Defense subcommittee’s draft bill for fiscal-year 2026 boosts the F-35 buy to 69, one more than Biden’s 2025 request.

    The Pentagon continues prioritizing purchasing munitions and key weapons systems.

    The Air Force is continuing its investment the Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile – Extended Range and Long Range Anti-Ship missile which have longer ranges and can be more effective in the Pacific.

    On the other hand, the budget seeks far fewer Precision Strike Missile, which will replace the Army Tactical Missile (ATACM) used in Ukraine.

    Lockheed Martin makes all three missiles.

    The budget also boosts spending on small drones – in part because of lessons learned in Ukraine where unmanned aircraft have proven to be an integral part of low-cost, yet highly effective warfighting.

    The detailed request comes as Republicans debate defense spending priorities in their sweeping $150 billion defense package contained in the pending “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”. The act has already been passed the House of Representatives and will give an initial $25 billion boost to Trump’s controversial Golden Dome missile defense shield.

    Defense spending usually accounts for about half of the U.S. discretionary budget; the rest goes to transportation, education, diplomacy and other departments.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Te Pūkenga 2024 Annual Report shows $122 million turnaround in two years

    Source: Te Pukenga

    Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) has released its 2024 Annual Report, showing a $122 million turnaround within the two years it has existed as a single entity, and the first surplus for the organisation.
    The report shows a surplus of $16.6 million at the end of 2024, a $54.5 million (144%) improvement on the 2023 deficit of $37.9 million, and a $121.7 million (116%) improvement on the 2022 deficit of $105 million.
    Revenue has grown $68.4 million (5%) compared to 2023, and $188 million (15%) compared to 2022. Te Pūkenga Chief Executive Gus Gilmore acknowledged the hard work of staff (kaimahi) in achieving the results amid a tough economic climate as well as uncertainty for the institute.
    “Against a background of immense change and uncertainty, Te Pūkenga had a strong year. With 226,645 learners, including 90,919 trainees and apprentices, outcomes continued to improve, with course completion, including 10,828 trainees and apprentices completing their programmes and 45,146 graduating. We also had strong domestic and international enrolments for our Institutes of Technology and Polytechnic (ITP) divisions and increased our net promoter score.
    “The financial result, showing a 144% improvement on the previous year, is the outcome of focusing on addressing financial performance through an intensive cost savings exercise across all divisions, structural changes, vacancy management, lease reduction, property sales and programme rationalisation,” said Mr Gilmore.
    Ākonga satisfaction increased to over 93% following a strong focus on improving learner support. For example, a partnership with Health New Zealand, with an investment of $4.1 million, saw more than 12,500 learners access mental health services – a 71% increase from 2023. Course completion rates across all priority groups – Māori, Pasifika and disabled learners – also showed an increase in 2024.
    Te Pūkenga also developed major commercial partnerships with national employers and international partners. Amongst the highlights are a successful partnership with Apple, which included the development of the Hangarau Matihiko (digital technology) micro-credential, training for 50 teachers in 12 Te Tai Tokerau schools, and more than 2,200 ākonga supported in strengthening their digital skills.
    A memorandum of arrangement was signed with the Centre for International People-to-People Exchange (CCIPE) from China to establish the New Zealand – China Vocational Cooperation and Development Alliance. It seeks to promote vocational education in both countries through talent cultivation, cross credits, student exchanges, and academic visits.
    Te Pūkenga also achieved many successful work-based training initiatives including the Connexis-run Girls with Hi-Vis (GWHV), seeking more women apprentices which last year co-hosted 36 events with employers, attracting more than 650 students from 98 schools. It was also the second year that events were co-hosted with BCITO for industry experience days onsite with companies in the civil infrastructure, electrical supply, water industries, building and construction sectors, and at some of the country’s major infrastructure projects.
    Plumbing, Gasfitting, and Drainlaying (PGD) programmes were updated by EarnLearn to better align with industry demands and improve outcomes for employers and learners. Meanwhile Primary ITO achieved a 96% completion rate in its programme to develop a skilled and qualified workforce for Whakatōhea Mussels new farm and processing facility in Ōpōtiki with many of the learners securing full-time jobs afterwards.
    Research revenue exceeded expectations by 38% – $12.02 million compared to the target of $8.73 million, demonstrating the continued strength of rangahau and research within Te Pūkenga. The 2024 ITP Rangahau and Research Symposium, the largest and most diverse research event delivered by Te Pūkenga, attracted more than 275 submissions, representing the work of over 500 kairangahau (researchers) across diverse areas of rangahau and research, including Pacific research.
    “Looking back on the year 2024, our kaimahi can be very proud of the outcomes achieved for our learners and employers, and a good financial result for the sector during a time of significant change. We thank kaimahi for their continued commitment and manaakitanga even as they have faced uncertainty about their own futures.”
    Year-to-date 2025 results show good growth on domestic and international enrolments for ITP divisions, while work-based learning divisions have seen an expected softening because of current market conditions.
    “There are still some hard decisions that need to be made this year to support the financial viability of individual divisions for their transition into new entities.
    “As we prepare for disestablishment, our focus remains on ensuring learners, employers, and kaimahi are well supported while we continue to deliver quality vocational education and training,” says Mr Gilmore.
    You can read the report here: 2024 Annual Report
    In summary, in 2024 Te Pūkenga network had:
    • 226,645 learners including 90,919 trainees and apprentices
    • 45,146 graduates
    • 10,828 trainees and apprentices completed programmes
    • 24,136 employers provided vocational education in partnership with Te Pūkenga
    • 74.4% of Māori learners completed their courses and 82% of all courses were completed, up from 81% in 2023
    • 93% ākonga satisfaction rate, up from 90%
    • 6,875 international student EFTs, ahead of the 2024 target of 5,315
    • 8,908 kaimahi (staff) FTE
    • Employers Net promoter Score (NPS) of 33 in 2024 up from 28 in 2023.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China harnesses biomass energy to power green transition

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

    At a biomass power plant in the city of Xuzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, giant mechanical claws repeatedly feed bundles of dried straw onto conveyor belts. The straw is then transported to furnaces and converted into clean energy.

    This facility can process around 300,000 tonnes of agricultural residues like wheat, corn and rice straw annually, producing over 220 million kilowatt-hours of electricity.

    “That’s equivalent to saving about 90,000 tonnes of coal and cutting roughly 200,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year,” said Zhang Yunfei, director of the dispatch center at State Grid Xuzhou Power Supply Company.

    Biomass energy is largely derived from agricultural and forestry waste, livestock manure and organic refuse — materials once dismissed as mere waste. With the rise of clean energy technologies and increasing environmental awareness, China is viewing these materials as a vital part of its energy transition.

    “Fewer farmers now burn straw in the fields, a practice that poses fire hazards and pollutes the air. Instead, crop residues are transported to modern biomass power plants,” Zhang said.

    “Xuzhou is rich in biomass resources and holds significant potential for energy conversion,” Zhang added. The city now operates 17 large-scale biomass plants with a combined installed capacity of 335.6 megawatts, generating nearly 2 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.

    China is one of the world’s most biomass-rich countries. Statistics from the Biomass Energy Industry Promotion Association show that the country produces approximately 3.5 billion tonnes of agricultural, forestry and household biomass resources annually. However, the utilization rates remain relatively low.

    In January, China’s first national energy law came into effect, calling for the tailored development of biomass power based on regional conditions.

    Shanghai in east China has established pilot projects to convert biomass into green methanol, aiming to drive a low-carbon transformation in international shipping and build green fuel supply capacity of 300,000 tonnes within the city by 2030.

    Meanwhile, enterprises in Anhui Province, also in east China, are scaling up biogas liquefaction and carbon capture initiatives, converting discarded straw and livestock waste into purified methane for liquefied bio-natural gas.

    At a circular economy industrial park in the city of Suzhou in Jiangsu, advanced facilities process around 500 tonnes of corporate kitchen waste daily.

    “About 90 percent of kitchen waste can be recycled into biomass natural gas for the city’s gas grid, or converted into nutrient-rich soil for landscaping,” said Huang Yuanchen, general manager of an environmental protection company in the park.

    “It’s not just kitchen waste. Tree branches and fallen leaves can also be recycled and processed into biomass fuel pellets for use in thermal power plants,” Huang revealed, while noting that his company can process 100 tonnes of green waste daily, generating annual fuel pellet sales of up to 9 million yuan (roughly 1.26 million U.S. dollars).

    Yu Tong, president of the China Association for the Promotion of Industrial Development, emphasized that achieving carbon neutrality demands transformative changes in energy consumption. “Biomass energy is abundant and versatile. It can be solid, liquid or gas — and can replace fossil fuels across multiple sectors.”

    According to a 2025 China biomass energy industry report, the country’s installed biomass power capacity had reached 45.99 million kilowatts by the end of 2024, with total power generation hitting 208.3 billion kilowatt-hours and biogas output reaching about 500 million cubic meters.

    “To bring biomass power to the power grid, centralized control systems are being rolled out for real-time monitoring of power plant performance and output, enhancing both power generation efficiency and stability,” said Li Yi, head of development planning at State Grid Xuzhou Power Supply Company.

    Yang Xudong, a professor at Tsinghua University in Beijing, underscored the further potential of biomass utilization.

    “Biomass energy can be easily stored and transported, and can serve as an alternative to other commercial fuels. It not only yields substantial economic returns, but retains its carbon-neutral identity.”

    “In the future, further efforts should be made to optimize the entire biomass value chain and boost biomass energy consumption to fully unleash its green potential,” Yang added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON ISRAEL STRIKE ON IRAN

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    At approximately 3:00 a.m. local time, 7:00 p.m. in Illinois, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a preemptive military strike targeting Iran’s nuclear program and key personnel. Israel has struck more than 300 targets, including nuclear sites, air defenses, and IRGC headquarters This may mark the beginning of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Though we do not yet know the full implications for the United States, our partners, or the global economy, one thing must be clear: America stands with Israel.

    Iran’s long record of malign behavior—its threats to wipe Israel off the map, its support for Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—makes clear why Israel assessed that it could not wait. A nuclear-armed Iran would pose an unacceptable threat not only to Israel but to the entire world.

    Israel destroyed Iraq’s nuclear reactor in 1981, and Syria’s in 2007. Later events proved the wisdom of Israel’s actions and benefited the region and the world. I am confident, with Iran on the brink of weaponization, the world will again be grateful that Israel acted to prevent catastrophe.

    Just last month, the International Atomic Energy Agency released a comprehensive report documenting Iran’s extensive violations of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Rather than correct course, Iran doubled down, announcing it would accelerate enrichment and stonewall international inspectors. On Wednesday, the IAEA formally censured Iran. Tehran responded with more threats.

    In moments like this, American leadership matters. The US stood with Israel in 2023 when it was attacked by Hamas and Hezbollah, and then again in 2024 when Iran launched hundreds of drones, cruise and ballistic missiles. We must do so again today—with resolve, with clarity, and with the unity that defines our most serious moments.

    I believe in the strength of the U.S. – Israel alliance. I am grateful for the sacrifice and bravery of the men and women of the United States armed forces and pray for their success and safety. I am immensely proud that every enlisted sailor in our Navy begins their service at Naval Station Great Lakes in my district, where they learn what to do on days like this. I know they are fully prepared precisely for this moment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar, Walberg, Bergman Introduce Legislation to Protect Line 5

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar, Walberg, Bergman Introduce Legislation to Protect Line 5

    Today, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced legislation to ensure Line 5 remains open to provide low-cost energy for Michigan residents. The Line 5 Act would prevent future administrations from shutting down the international pipeline. Moolenaar’s legislation is cosponsored by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Jack Bergman (R-MI).

    “Line 5 is a vital source of energy for Michigan families. Unfortunately, the previous administration did not recognize its value to our state and fought to shut down the pipeline with bureaucratic red tape. Thankfully, the Trump administration has worked to ensure Line 5 remains open to serve Michigan residents. The Line 5 Act is a commonsense, two-page bill, which will stop future administrations from reversing the progress made by President Trump’s administration on Line 5, so Michigan families can count on it to affordably heat their homes,” said Congressman Moolenaar. 

    “Michiganders rely on Line 5 for a safe, secure, and reliable supply of energy to heat their homes and power our local economy,” said Rep. Walberg. “While the Trump administration has shown its steadfast dedication to securing American energy reliability, it is vital that we prevent future presidents from shutting down this safe and essential pipeline. Energy security is national security, and we must protect our critical energy infrastructure.” 

    “Line 5 is critical to Michigan families and our way of life. No president, regardless of their party – should have the power to shut it down with the stroke of a pen. Line 5 keeps energy affordable, supports thousands of Michigan jobs, and helps fuel our economy. This bill is about putting common sense and stability ahead of political agendas,” said General Bergman. 

    Approximately 320,000 households in Michigan rely on propane to heat their homes. Line 5 provides 55% of the state’s propane supply. 

    The text Line 5 Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of Technology

    The Image Bank/Getty

    As the world watches the US–Iran situation with concern, the ripple effect from these events are reaching global oil supply chains – and exposing their fragility.

    If Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz as it is considering, it would restrict the global oil trade and trigger energy chaos.

    Petrol in some Australian cities could hit A$2.50 a litre according to some economists. As global instability worsens, other experts warn price spikes are increasingly likely.

    What would happen next? There is a precedent: the oil shocks of the 1970s, when oil prices quadrupled. The shock drove rapid change, from more efficient cars to sudden interest in alternative energy sources. This time, motorists would likely switch to electric vehicles.

    If this crisis continues or if another one flares up, it could mark a turning point in Australia’s long dependence on foreign oil.

    What would an oil shock mean?

    Australia currently imports 80% of its liquid fuels, the highest level on record. If the flow of oil stopped, we would have about 50 days worth in storage before we ran out.

    Our cars, buses, trucks and planes run overwhelmingly on petrol and diesel. Almost three-quarters (74%) of these liquid fuels are used in transport, with road transport accounting for more than half (54%) of all liquid fuels. Australia is highly exposed to global supply shocks.

    The best available option to reduce dependence on oil imports is to electrify transport.

    How does Australia compare on EVs?

    EV uptake in Australia continues to lag behind global leaders. In 2024, EVs accounted for 9.65% of new car sales in Australia, up from 8.45% in 2023.

    In the first quarter of 2025, EVs were 6.3% of new car sales, a decline from 7.4% in the final quarter of 2024.

    Norway remains the global leader, with battery-electric passenger cars making up 88.9% of sales in 2024. The United Kingdom also saw significant growth – EVs hit almost 20% of new car registrations in 2024.

    In China, EVs made up 40.9% of new car sales in 2024. The 12.87 million cars sold represent three-quarters of total EV sales worldwide.

    One reason for Australia’s sluggishness is a lack of reliable public chargers. While charging infrastructure is expanding, large parts of regional Australia still lack reliable access to EV charging.

    Until recently, Australia’s fuel efficiency standards were among the weakest in the OECD. Earlier this year, the government’s new standards came into force. These are expected to boost EV uptake.

    Could global tensions trigger faster action?

    If history is any guide, oil shocks lead to long-term change.

    The 1970s oil shocks triggered waves of energy reform.

    When global oil prices quadrupled in 1973–74, many nations were forced to reconsider where they got their energy. A few years later, the 1979 Iranian Revolution caused another major supply disruption, sending oil prices soaring and pushing much of the world into recession.

    Huge increases in oil prices drove people to look for alternatives during the 1970s oil shocks.
    Everett Collection/Shutterstock

    These shocks drove the formation of the International Energy Agency in 1974, spurred alternative energy investment and led to advances in fuel-efficiency standards.

    Much more recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine pushed the European Union to face up to its reliance on Russian gas and find alternatives by importing gas from different countries and accelerating the clean energy shift.

    Clearly, energy shocks can be catalysts for long-term structural change in how we produce and consume energy.

    The new crisis could do the same, but only if policy catches up.

    If fuel prices shot up and stayed there, consumer behaviour would begin to shift. People would drive less and seek alternate forms of transport. Over time, more would look for better ways to get around.

    But without stronger support such as incentives, infrastructure and fuel security planning, shifting consumer preferences could be too slow to matter.

    A clean-energy future is more secure

    Cutting oil dependency through electrification isn’t just good for the climate. It’s also a hedge against future price shocks and supply disruptions.

    Transport is now Australia’s third-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Now that emissions are falling in the electricity sector, transport will be the highest emitting sector emissions source as soon as 2030.

    Building a cleaner transport system also means building a more resilient one. Charging EVs on locally produced renewable power cuts our exposure to global oil markets. So do biofuels, better public transport and smarter urban planning.

    Improving domestic energy resilience isn’t just about climate targets. It’s about economic stability and national security. Clean local energy sources reduce vulnerability to events beyond our control.

    What can we learn from China?

    China offers a compelling case study. The nation of 1.4 billion faces real oil security challenges. In response, Beijing has spent the past decade building a domestic clean energy ecosystem to reduce oil dependency and cut emissions.

    This is now bearing fruit. Last year, China’s oil imports had the first sustained fall in nearly two decades. Crude oil imports fell 1.5%, while oil refinery activity also fell due to lower demand.

    China’s rapid uptake of EVs has clear energy security benefits.
    pim pic/Shutterstock

    China’s green energy transition was driven by coordinated policy, industrial investment and public support for clean transport.

    China’s rapid shift to EVs and clean energy shows how long-term planning and targeted investment can pay off on climate and energy security.

    What we do next matters

    The rolling crises of 2025 present Australian policymakers a rare alignment of interests. What’s good for the climate, for consumers and for national security may now be the same thing.

    Real change will require more than sustained high petrol prices. It demands political will, targeted investment and a long-term vision for clean, resilient transport.

    Doing nothing has a real cost – not just in what we pay at the service station, but in how vulnerable we remain to events a long way away.

    Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

    – ref. Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue – https://theconversation.com/oil-shocks-in-the-1970s-drove-rapid-changes-in-transport-it-could-happen-again-if-middle-east-tensions-continue-259670

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 26, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 26, 2025.

    ‘Do not eat’: what’s in those little desiccant sachets and how do they work?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kamil Zuber, Senior Industry Research Fellow, Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia towfiqu ahamed/Getty Images When you buy a new electronic appliance, shoes, medicines or even some food items, you often find a small paper sachet with the warning: “silica gel, do not eat”. What exactly

    ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nina Sivertsen, Associate Professor, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University Pregnancy and having a baby can be a special time. And families want to feel safe and trust their maternity care. But when we reviewed the evidence, we found many Indigenous families globally face unfair

    Iran accuses US over ‘torpedoed diplomacy’ – passes bill to halt UN nuclear watchdog cooperation
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem Kia ora koutou, I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground. At least 79 killed and 391 injured by Israeli forces in Gaza over the last 24 hours, including 33 killed

    Parenthood or podium? It’s time Australian athletes had the support to choose both
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jasmine Titova, PhD Candidate, CQUniversity Australia When tennis legend Serena Williams retired in 2022, she stated: If I were a guy, I wouldn’t be writing this because I’d be out there playing and winning while my wife was doing the physical labour of expanding our family. Many

    Papua New Guinea police blame overrun system for prison breakouts
    By Margot Staunton, RNZ Pacific senior journalist Police in Papua New Guinea say the country’s overrun courts and prisons are behind mass breakouts from police custody. Chief Superintendent Clement Dala made the comment after 13 detainees escaped on Tuesday in Simbu Province, including eight who were facing murder charges. Dala said an auxiliary policeman who

    Stable public housing in the first year of life boosts children’s wellbeing years down the track – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jaimie Monk, Research Fellow, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research Phil Walter/Getty Images New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market means low-income families face big constraints on their accommodation options. This involves often accepting housing that is insecure, cold, damp or in unsuitable neighbourhoods. But little is known about

    From HAL 9000 to M3GAN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Yes, Victoria’s efforts to wean households off gas have been dialled back. But it’s still real progress
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trivess Moore, Associate Professor in Property, Construction and Project Management, RMIT University MirageC/Getty On the question of gas, Victoria’s government faces pressure from many directions. The Bass Strait wells supplying Australia’s most gas-dependent state are running dry. Gas prices shot up in 2020 and have stayed high.

    From HAL 9000 to ME3AN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Remote cave discovery shows ancient voyagers brought rice across 2,300km of Pacific Ocean
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hsiao-chun Hung, Senior Research Fellow, School of Culture, History & Language, Australian National University Ritidian beach, Guam. Hsiao-chun Hung In a new study published today in Science Advances, my colleagues and I have uncovered the earliest evidence of rice in the Pacific Islands – at an ancient

    500,000 Australians live with mental illness but don’t qualify for the NDIS. A damning new report says they need more support
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney stellalevi/Getty Half a million Australians are living with moderate to severe mental illness, but they don’t qualify for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and cannot access the support

    ‘I’m not going to give up’: how to help more disadvantaged young people go to uni and TAFE
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lucas Walsh, Professor and Director of the Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice, Monash University Oliver Rossi/ Getty Images On Wednesday, Education Minister Jason Clare hailed an increase in the numbers of Australians starting a university degree. In 2024, there was a 3.7% increase in Australian

    New climate reporting rules start on July 1. Many companies are not ready for the change
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Baird, Senior Lecturer , University of Tasmania PaeGAG/Shutterstock A new financial year starts on July 1. For Australia’s large companies, that means new rules on climate-related disclosures come into force. These requirements are the culmination of years of planning to ensure companies disclose climate-related risks and

    Whose story is being told — and why? 4 questions museum visitors should ask themselves this school holidays
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olli Hellmann, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waikato The winter school holidays will mean families across Aotearoa New Zealand will be looking for indoor activities to entertain children. With millions of visitors each year, museums focused on the country’s history will inevitably play host to

    Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends? I am the director

    Macron invites all New Caledonia stakeholders for Paris talks
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk French President Emmanuel Macron has sent a formal invitation to “all New Caledonia stakeholders” for talks in Paris on the French Pacific territory’s political and economic future to be held on July 2. The confirmation came on Thursday in the form of a letter sent individually

    Opposition starts on challenge of crafting (yet another) energy policy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The opposition is commencing the challenging task of framing a new energy policy, including deciding whether to stick by its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Liberal leader Sussan Ley, appearing at the National Press Club, announced a Coalition

    Election flows reveal nearly 90% of Greens preferenced Labor ahead of Coalition
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Minor party preference flows for the federal election have been released, with Labor winning Greens preferences by 88.2–11.8, while the Coalition won One Nation preferences by 74.5–24.5.

    Australia’s native bees struggled after the Black Summer fires – but a world-first solution brought them buzzing back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kit Prendergast, Postdoctoral Researcher, Pollination Ecology, University of Southern Queensland Kit Prendergast (@bee.babette_performer) After a devastating bushfire, efforts to help nature recover typically focus on vertebrates and plants. Yet extreme fires can threaten insects, too. After the Black Summer fires of 2019–20, I embarked on world-first research

    Wild swings in the oil price make the Reserve Bank’s job harder
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra It looks, at least for now, as though tensions in the Middle East are easing somewhat. It appears much less likely Iran will try to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which flows about a fifth of

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 26, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 26, 2025.

    ‘Do not eat’: what’s in those little desiccant sachets and how do they work?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kamil Zuber, Senior Industry Research Fellow, Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia towfiqu ahamed/Getty Images When you buy a new electronic appliance, shoes, medicines or even some food items, you often find a small paper sachet with the warning: “silica gel, do not eat”. What exactly

    ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nina Sivertsen, Associate Professor, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University Pregnancy and having a baby can be a special time. And families want to feel safe and trust their maternity care. But when we reviewed the evidence, we found many Indigenous families globally face unfair

    Iran accuses US over ‘torpedoed diplomacy’ – passes bill to halt UN nuclear watchdog cooperation
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem Kia ora koutou, I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground. At least 79 killed and 391 injured by Israeli forces in Gaza over the last 24 hours, including 33 killed

    Parenthood or podium? It’s time Australian athletes had the support to choose both
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jasmine Titova, PhD Candidate, CQUniversity Australia When tennis legend Serena Williams retired in 2022, she stated: If I were a guy, I wouldn’t be writing this because I’d be out there playing and winning while my wife was doing the physical labour of expanding our family. Many

    Papua New Guinea police blame overrun system for prison breakouts
    By Margot Staunton, RNZ Pacific senior journalist Police in Papua New Guinea say the country’s overrun courts and prisons are behind mass breakouts from police custody. Chief Superintendent Clement Dala made the comment after 13 detainees escaped on Tuesday in Simbu Province, including eight who were facing murder charges. Dala said an auxiliary policeman who

    Stable public housing in the first year of life boosts children’s wellbeing years down the track – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jaimie Monk, Research Fellow, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research Phil Walter/Getty Images New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market means low-income families face big constraints on their accommodation options. This involves often accepting housing that is insecure, cold, damp or in unsuitable neighbourhoods. But little is known about

    From HAL 9000 to M3GAN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Yes, Victoria’s efforts to wean households off gas have been dialled back. But it’s still real progress
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trivess Moore, Associate Professor in Property, Construction and Project Management, RMIT University MirageC/Getty On the question of gas, Victoria’s government faces pressure from many directions. The Bass Strait wells supplying Australia’s most gas-dependent state are running dry. Gas prices shot up in 2020 and have stayed high.

    From HAL 9000 to ME3AN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Remote cave discovery shows ancient voyagers brought rice across 2,300km of Pacific Ocean
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hsiao-chun Hung, Senior Research Fellow, School of Culture, History & Language, Australian National University Ritidian beach, Guam. Hsiao-chun Hung In a new study published today in Science Advances, my colleagues and I have uncovered the earliest evidence of rice in the Pacific Islands – at an ancient

    500,000 Australians live with mental illness but don’t qualify for the NDIS. A damning new report says they need more support
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney stellalevi/Getty Half a million Australians are living with moderate to severe mental illness, but they don’t qualify for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and cannot access the support

    ‘I’m not going to give up’: how to help more disadvantaged young people go to uni and TAFE
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lucas Walsh, Professor and Director of the Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice, Monash University Oliver Rossi/ Getty Images On Wednesday, Education Minister Jason Clare hailed an increase in the numbers of Australians starting a university degree. In 2024, there was a 3.7% increase in Australian

    New climate reporting rules start on July 1. Many companies are not ready for the change
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Baird, Senior Lecturer , University of Tasmania PaeGAG/Shutterstock A new financial year starts on July 1. For Australia’s large companies, that means new rules on climate-related disclosures come into force. These requirements are the culmination of years of planning to ensure companies disclose climate-related risks and

    Whose story is being told — and why? 4 questions museum visitors should ask themselves this school holidays
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olli Hellmann, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waikato The winter school holidays will mean families across Aotearoa New Zealand will be looking for indoor activities to entertain children. With millions of visitors each year, museums focused on the country’s history will inevitably play host to

    Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends? I am the director

    Macron invites all New Caledonia stakeholders for Paris talks
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk French President Emmanuel Macron has sent a formal invitation to “all New Caledonia stakeholders” for talks in Paris on the French Pacific territory’s political and economic future to be held on July 2. The confirmation came on Thursday in the form of a letter sent individually

    Opposition starts on challenge of crafting (yet another) energy policy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The opposition is commencing the challenging task of framing a new energy policy, including deciding whether to stick by its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Liberal leader Sussan Ley, appearing at the National Press Club, announced a Coalition

    Election flows reveal nearly 90% of Greens preferenced Labor ahead of Coalition
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Minor party preference flows for the federal election have been released, with Labor winning Greens preferences by 88.2–11.8, while the Coalition won One Nation preferences by 74.5–24.5.

    Australia’s native bees struggled after the Black Summer fires – but a world-first solution brought them buzzing back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kit Prendergast, Postdoctoral Researcher, Pollination Ecology, University of Southern Queensland Kit Prendergast (@bee.babette_performer) After a devastating bushfire, efforts to help nature recover typically focus on vertebrates and plants. Yet extreme fires can threaten insects, too. After the Black Summer fires of 2019–20, I embarked on world-first research

    Wild swings in the oil price make the Reserve Bank’s job harder
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra It looks, at least for now, as though tensions in the Middle East are easing somewhat. It appears much less likely Iran will try to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which flows about a fifth of

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran ratifies plan to halt cooperation with IAEA

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

    The Iranian parliament on Wednesday approved the general outlines and details of a plan to suspend the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    The bill was approved at an open session of the parliament in the Iranian capital Tehran, with 221 votes in favor and one abstention, reported the ICANA news agency affiliated with Iran’s legislative body.

    According to the report, the plan requires the Iranian administration to suspend its cooperation with the IAEA, the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

    The plan stipulates that, given the violation of Iran’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity by Israel and the United States through attacking the country’s peaceful nuclear facilities and jeopardizing its interests, the Iranian government is duty-bound to immediately suspend any kind of cooperation with the IAEA based on the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement until a number of preconditions are met.

    It lists the conditions as ensuring respect for Iran’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the security of the country’s nuclear centers and scientists within the framework of the UN Charter and the complete recognition of Iran’s inherent rights under the NPT, especially the enrichment of uranium on Iranian soil.

    Elaborating on the plan, Seyed Mohammad Nabavian, an Iranian lawmaker, said it was not focused on Iran’s withdrawal from the NPT, as the country was committed to the treaty and had announced that its nuclear activities were all peaceful, ICANA reported.

    On June 13, Israel launched major airstrikes on different areas in Iran, including nuclear and military sites, killing several senior commanders, nuclear scientists and many civilians. Iran responded by launching several waves of missile and drone attacks on Israel, inflicting casualties and heavy damage.

    On Saturday, the U.S. Air Force bombed three Iranian nuclear sites of Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. In retaliation, Iran on Monday struck the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar with missiles.

    Following Iran’s attack, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire between Iran and Israel would begin around 0400 GMT Tuesday. Both sides later confirmed the start of the ceasefire. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Veasey Slams RFK Jr. for HHS Funding Cuts to Combat Opioid Epidemic After HHS Secretary Benefitted from Federal Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Congressman Veasey Slams RFK Jr. for HHS Funding Cuts to Combat Opioid Epidemic After HHS Secretary Benefitted from Federal Programs

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Marc Veasey, a member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health, grilled HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over his proposed FY 2025-2026 budget—which includes devastating cuts to lifesaving staff, hospitals, grants, and programs aimed at combating the opioid crisis.

    When pressed by Rep. Veasey to justify the cuts, Secretary Kennedy stonewalled, dodging basic questions about the harm his budget would cause. Rep. Veasey didn’t hold back—calling out the blatant hypocrisy of a man who once relied on federally funded addiction treatment programs to get clean, only to now slash funding for millions of Americans, including veterans, children, and seniors.

    “This is Republican chaos, cronyism, hypocrisy, and theft on full display,” said Congressman Veasey. “They use the very programs they gut—then leave everyone else to suffer. Marjorie Taylor Greene took $180,000 in PPP loans and then voted to rip it away from other hardworking Americans. JD Vance’s mother got addiction help through programs. RFK Jr. used taxpayer dollars to recover from heroin addiction, and now he wants to defund those same programs for everyone else.”

    “It’s theft. It’s a cold, callous assault on the health and lives of everyday Americans. Don’t believe the spin. The truth is right here: Republicans will use these programs for themselves, then defund them once they’re done. It’s selfish. It’s dangerous. And it’s costing lives.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on Mike Lee’s Revised Plan to Sell off Public Lands—with Hundreds of Thousands of Acres of BLM Land in WA State At Risk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Murray Slams Secretary Burgum’s Plans to Fire National Park Staff, Sell Off Public Lands, & Slash Funding for Tribes

    Senator Murray is an outspoken opponent of Republicans’ partisan reconciliation bill; has repeatedly spoken out in opposition to the Republican plan to sell off public land in the legislation

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the revised plan released by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) to sell off public lands in Washington state and other Western states as part of Republicans’ partisan reconciliation bill, which they are pushing through Congress with only Republican votes. The updated text from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which Senator Lee chairs, would mandate the sale of between one-quarter and one-half of the 245 million acres currently owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Specifically, the provision mandates the sale of BLM land within 5 miles of a “population center,” which is otherwise undefined.

    Senator Lee’s first plan to sell off public lands was struck down by the Senate Parliamentarian earlier this week after Democrats challenged it as a violation of Senate rules. The Parliamentarian is expected to rule on the revised plan in the coming days.

    “Americans should know that the threat to our public lands is not over, as Senate Republicans are still trying to sell off public land as part of their Big Ugly Reconciliation Bill. Republicans’ revised plan would still put up to 450,000 acres of public land in Washington state on the auction block. Communities in Central and Eastern Washington will be most affected by this heist.

    “Now is the time for everyone who enjoys hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor recreation on BLM land to call their Republican members of Congress and demand that they oppose this giveaway of the precious public lands that belong to all of us.”

    “Selling off our public lands to fund tax cuts for billionaires is an unconscionable betrayal of future generations and our cherished outdoor spaces. Public lands belong in public hands.”

    Senator Murray is staunch opponent of Republicans’ reconciliation bill—the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—and has held many recent events raising the alarm on the devastating cuts the legislation will make to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), among other harmful provisions. Senator Murray has also repeatedly spoken out against Republican efforts to sell off public lands as part of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Applauds Commonwealth’s Authorization for $11 Billion LNG Investment in Louisiana

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the announcement that the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a final order upholding authorization for Commonwealth’s 9.5 million tonnes per annum liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project in Calcasieu Ship Channel near Cameron, Louisiana. In May, Cassidy urged FERC Chairman Mark Christie to give swift consideration to Commonwealth’s application.
    “This project is a huge win for our state—creating jobs, investing in the community, and unleashing American energy,” said Dr. Cassidy. “President Trump and Republicans want to reestablish American energy dominance. That starts in Louisiana.”
    Background
    Commonwealth LNG’s terminal is an important project that will contribute to American energy dominance due to its capacity to process up to 9.5 million tonnes per year of LNG upon project completion. Furthermore, the Commonwealth project represents a direct investment of $11 billion in Louisiana, and construction of the terminal will generate 2,000 jobs during peak construction and maintain 200 jobs during regular operations. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Second phase of China’s largest offshore gas field goes operational

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

    An aerial drone photo taken in April, 2025 shows the Deep Sea No. 1 energy station, in south China’s island province of Hainan. China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) announced Wednesday the full operation of the second phase of its flagship gas field in the South China Sea, marking the completion of the country’s largest offshore natural gas development to date. The progress brings the gas field, named Shenhai Yihao or Deep Sea No. 1, to its designed production capacity of 4.5 billion cubic meters annually, according to CNOOC, the largest offshore oil and gas producer in China. [CNOOC/Handout via Xinhua]

    BEIJING, June 25 — China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) announced Wednesday the full operation of the second phase of its flagship gas field in the South China Sea, marking the completion of the country’s largest offshore natural gas development to date.

    The progress brings the gas field, named Shenhai Yihao or Deep Sea No. 1, to its designed production capacity of 4.5 billion cubic meters annually, according to CNOOC, the largest offshore oil and gas producer in China.

    The gas field boasts proven geological reserves of over 150 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Production of phase-one project commenced in June 2021.

    Natural gas extracted from the field is transported to coastal terminals in Hong Kong, Sanya in Hainan, and Zhuhai in Guangdong, supplying key economic regions while integrating into the national gas pipeline network.

    The second phase of the project represents the country’s most challenging deepwater gas development so far, as it operates under the highest temperatures and pressures ever encountered in domestic offshore exploration. Additionally, it is China’s deepest gas development, functioning at water depths exceeding 1,500 meters and well depths surpassing 5,000 meters.

    Project manager Liu Kang said the production infrastructure and technical expertise established through the project will help future complex deepwater oil and gas exploration, enhancing the role of marine resources in supporting national energy supply.

    This photo taken in April, 2025 shows the Deep Sea No. 1 energy station in south China’s island province of Hainan. [CNOOC/Handout via Xinhua]
    This photo taken in March, 2025 shows a night working scene of the offshore gas production platform cluster in south China’s island province of Hainan. [CNOOC/Handout via Xinhua]
    A frogman checks the underwater structure of the second phase of Shenhai Yihao, or Deep Sea No. 1, in south China’s island province of Hainan, in May, 2025. [CNOOC/Handout via Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Op-ed from Sen. Lummis & Anne Bradbury: Bad tax policy is holding back America’s energy engine. Let’s fix it.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Anne Bradbury (CEO of the American Exploration & Production Council) published an op-ed this week in Oil City News highlighting how we can fulfill President Trump’s pledge to unleash Wyoming and American energy by fixing tax policy surrounding Intangible Drilling Cost (IDCs).

    Read the full op-ed here and below.

    Oil City News- Bad tax policy is holding back America’s energy engine. Let’s fix it

    As the Senate works to advance reconciliation legislation known as “The One, Big, Beautiful Bill,” one critical piece of America’s energy production engine must be addressed: the tax treatment of Intangible Drilling Costs for America’s independent oil and natural gas producers. Allowing for the immediate expensing of IDCs powered domestic energy production for over a century and fixing their treatment remains vital to sustaining the success of energy-rich states like Wyoming — and to U.S. energy security.

    IDCs are ordinary business expenses incurred in the exploration, development, and drilling of new wells, including wages, repairs, supplies, fuel, surveying and ground clearing. They can account for up to 80% of a producer’s total costs, the bulk of which are tied to jobs and labor. These costs are real capital outlays that nearly every capital-intensive industry can deduct immediately and, in turn, redeploy as investment. For America’s independent producers, that means hiring more workers, drilling new wells, and expanding energy production.

    For decades, the U.S. tax code appropriately allowed independent producers to deduct these essential capital costs in the year they’re incurred. But the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act abruptly changed that by reintroducing the corporate alternative minimum tax and penalizing America’s energy producers as a result. In short, under the CAMT, independent producers can’t immediately deduct their IDCs anymore, resulting in less capital for reinvestment, fewer jobs, lower production, and higher energy costs.

    This Biden-era policy not only singles out America’s energy producers but also hurts states like Wyoming that are essential to securing our energy dominance. A targeted legislative fix would restore fair, equitable treatment of these capital expenses that are essential to American energy production and help ensure the long-term strength of American-made oil and gas.

    Wyoming is one of the most important energy exporters in the country, producing nearly 12 times the energy it consumes. The state ranks eighth in both crude oil and natural gas production and is the second-largest producer of both oil and gas on federal lands. When Washington changes national energy tax policy, Wyoming’s energy industry and its workers are disproportionally hit.

    In 2021, the oil and natural gas industry supported over 58,000 jobs in Wyoming and contributed $5.7 billion in labor income. In 2022 alone, oil and gas generated over $1.7 billion in property and severance taxes for the state. That revenue funds our schools, roads, emergency services, and more. Over the past six years, the industry has delivered more than $11 billion to support Wyoming’s public needs — amounting to about $4,143 in direct benefits per Wyoming resident in 2023. That’s money that helps keep individual taxpayers’ burdens lower than many other states.

    These benefits depend on continued investment, which in turn depends on stable, competitive tax policies like the ability to immediately deduct IDCs. Imposing this tax penalty through the IRA made it significantly more expensive to drill new wells – hurting domestic operators, reducing projects, and making us more dependent on foreign sources of energy.

    It also hits the American worker. Over 90% of U.S. oil and gas wells are developed by independent producers. Here in Wyoming, that means the operators across our energy-rich counties — like Campbell, Johnson, Laramie, Sublette, and more — that are hiring local workers, reinvesting into their communities, and building the infrastructure that brings reliable energy to American homes and businesses. In Wyoming and across the country, these jobs form the backbone of rural economies and energy communities.

    Restoring the immediate expensing of IDCs as the Senate Finance Committee has proposed, is one of the smartest things we can do to ensure our country remains energy independent, economically strong, and geopolitically resilient. It’s critical Congress recognizes the importance of including this tax provision in The One, Big, Beautiful Bill — not just for Wyoming, but for all of America.

    —

    Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-WY

    Anne Bradbury, CEO of the American Exploration & Production Council

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Op-ed from Sen. Lummis & Anne Bradbury: Bad tax policy is holding back America’s energy engine. Let’s fix it.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis
    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Anne Bradbury (CEO of the American Exploration & Production Council) published an op-ed this week in Oil City News highlighting how we can fulfill President Trump’s pledge to unleash Wyoming and American energy by fixing tax policy surrounding Intangible Drilling Cost (IDCs).
    Read the full op-ed here and below.
    Oil City News- Bad tax policy is holding back America’s energy engine. Let’s fix it
    As the Senate works to advance reconciliation legislation known as “The One, Big, Beautiful Bill,” one critical piece of America’s energy production engine must be addressed: the tax treatment of Intangible Drilling Costs for America’s independent oil and natural gas producers. Allowing for the immediate expensing of IDCs powered domestic energy production for over a century and fixing their treatment remains vital to sustaining the success of energy-rich states like Wyoming — and to U.S. energy security.
    IDCs are ordinary business expenses incurred in the exploration, development, and drilling of new wells, including wages, repairs, supplies, fuel, surveying and ground clearing. They can account for up to 80% of a producer’s total costs, the bulk of which are tied to jobs and labor. These costs are real capital outlays that nearly every capital-intensive industry can deduct immediately and, in turn, redeploy as investment. For America’s independent producers, that means hiring more workers, drilling new wells, and expanding energy production.
    For decades, the U.S. tax code appropriately allowed independent producers to deduct these essential capital costs in the year they’re incurred. But the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act abruptly changed that by reintroducing the corporate alternative minimum tax and penalizing America’s energy producers as a result. In short, under the CAMT, independent producers can’t immediately deduct their IDCs anymore, resulting in less capital for reinvestment, fewer jobs, lower production, and higher energy costs.
    This Biden-era policy not only singles out America’s energy producers but also hurts states like Wyoming that are essential to securing our energy dominance. A targeted legislative fix would restore fair, equitable treatment of these capital expenses that are essential to American energy production and help ensure the long-term strength of American-made oil and gas.
    Wyoming is one of the most important energy exporters in the country, producing nearly 12 times the energy it consumes. The state ranks eighth in both crude oil and natural gas production and is the second-largest producer of both oil and gas on federal lands. When Washington changes national energy tax policy, Wyoming’s energy industry and its workers are disproportionally hit.
    In 2021, the oil and natural gas industry supported over 58,000 jobs in Wyoming and contributed $5.7 billion in labor income. In 2022 alone, oil and gas generated over $1.7 billion in property and severance taxes for the state. That revenue funds our schools, roads, emergency services, and more. Over the past six years, the industry has delivered more than $11 billion to support Wyoming’s public needs — amounting to about $4,143 in direct benefits per Wyoming resident in 2023. That’s money that helps keep individual taxpayers’ burdens lower than many other states.
    These benefits depend on continued investment, which in turn depends on stable, competitive tax policies like the ability to immediately deduct IDCs. Imposing this tax penalty through the IRA made it significantly more expensive to drill new wells – hurting domestic operators, reducing projects, and making us more dependent on foreign sources of energy.
    It also hits the American worker. Over 90% of U.S. oil and gas wells are developed by independent producers. Here in Wyoming, that means the operators across our energy-rich counties — like Campbell, Johnson, Laramie, Sublette, and more — that are hiring local workers, reinvesting into their communities, and building the infrastructure that brings reliable energy to American homes and businesses. In Wyoming and across the country, these jobs form the backbone of rural economies and energy communities.
    Restoring the immediate expensing of IDCs as the Senate Finance Committee has proposed, is one of the smartest things we can do to ensure our country remains energy independent, economically strong, and geopolitically resilient. It’s critical Congress recognizes the importance of including this tax provision in The One, Big, Beautiful Bill — not just for Wyoming, but for all of America.
    —
    Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-WY
    Anne Bradbury, CEO of the American Exploration & Production Council

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Op-ed from Sen. Lummis & Anne Bradbury: Bad tax policy is holding back America’s energy engine. Let’s fix it.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Anne Bradbury (CEO of the American Exploration & Production Council) published an op-ed this week in Oil City News highlighting how we can fulfill President Trump’s pledge to unleash Wyoming and American energy by fixing tax policy surrounding Intangible Drilling Cost (IDCs).

    Read the full op-ed here and below.

    Oil City News- Bad tax policy is holding back America’s energy engine. Let’s fix it

    As the Senate works to advance reconciliation legislation known as “The One, Big, Beautiful Bill,” one critical piece of America’s energy production engine must be addressed: the tax treatment of Intangible Drilling Costs for America’s independent oil and natural gas producers. Allowing for the immediate expensing of IDCs powered domestic energy production for over a century and fixing their treatment remains vital to sustaining the success of energy-rich states like Wyoming — and to U.S. energy security.

    IDCs are ordinary business expenses incurred in the exploration, development, and drilling of new wells, including wages, repairs, supplies, fuel, surveying and ground clearing. They can account for up to 80% of a producer’s total costs, the bulk of which are tied to jobs and labor. These costs are real capital outlays that nearly every capital-intensive industry can deduct immediately and, in turn, redeploy as investment. For America’s independent producers, that means hiring more workers, drilling new wells, and expanding energy production.

    For decades, the U.S. tax code appropriately allowed independent producers to deduct these essential capital costs in the year they’re incurred. But the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act abruptly changed that by reintroducing the corporate alternative minimum tax and penalizing America’s energy producers as a result. In short, under the CAMT, independent producers can’t immediately deduct their IDCs anymore, resulting in less capital for reinvestment, fewer jobs, lower production, and higher energy costs.

    This Biden-era policy not only singles out America’s energy producers but also hurts states like Wyoming that are essential to securing our energy dominance. A targeted legislative fix would restore fair, equitable treatment of these capital expenses that are essential to American energy production and help ensure the long-term strength of American-made oil and gas.

    Wyoming is one of the most important energy exporters in the country, producing nearly 12 times the energy it consumes. The state ranks eighth in both crude oil and natural gas production and is the second-largest producer of both oil and gas on federal lands. When Washington changes national energy tax policy, Wyoming’s energy industry and its workers are disproportionally hit.

    In 2021, the oil and natural gas industry supported over 58,000 jobs in Wyoming and contributed $5.7 billion in labor income. In 2022 alone, oil and gas generated over $1.7 billion in property and severance taxes for the state. That revenue funds our schools, roads, emergency services, and more. Over the past six years, the industry has delivered more than $11 billion to support Wyoming’s public needs — amounting to about $4,143 in direct benefits per Wyoming resident in 2023. That’s money that helps keep individual taxpayers’ burdens lower than many other states.

    These benefits depend on continued investment, which in turn depends on stable, competitive tax policies like the ability to immediately deduct IDCs. Imposing this tax penalty through the IRA made it significantly more expensive to drill new wells – hurting domestic operators, reducing projects, and making us more dependent on foreign sources of energy.

    It also hits the American worker. Over 90% of U.S. oil and gas wells are developed by independent producers. Here in Wyoming, that means the operators across our energy-rich counties — like Campbell, Johnson, Laramie, Sublette, and more — that are hiring local workers, reinvesting into their communities, and building the infrastructure that brings reliable energy to American homes and businesses. In Wyoming and across the country, these jobs form the backbone of rural economies and energy communities.

    Restoring the immediate expensing of IDCs as the Senate Finance Committee has proposed, is one of the smartest things we can do to ensure our country remains energy independent, economically strong, and geopolitically resilient. It’s critical Congress recognizes the importance of including this tax provision in The One, Big, Beautiful Bill — not just for Wyoming, but for all of America.

    —

    Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-WY

    Anne Bradbury, CEO of the American Exploration & Production Council

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08) Blasts RFK Jr. For Lying to a Sitting Senator, the American People About His Dismantling of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), Vaccine Efficacy and Safety

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Just hours ago, at the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee hearing, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) – the first pediatrician elected to Congress and co-chair of the Congressional Doctors Caucus – blasted Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for lying to Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and the American people about his dismantling of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and his undermining of vaccine efficacy and safety.

    “I just want to tell you that for most of us sitting here right now, we believe Senator Cassidy more than we trust you when it comes to vaccinations. It sounds to me like you gave him the answer he needed to hear in order to get his confirmation vote, and then as soon as you were Secretary, you turned around and did whatever you wanted – you fired all 17 members [of ACIP],” said Congresswoman Kim Schrier. “Mr. Secretary, you are now on the record – you lied to Senator Cassidy, you have lied to the American people, you have lied to parents about vaccines for 20 years, and I also want to be clear that I will lay all responsibility for every death from a vaccine-preventable at your feet.”

    To watch Congresswoman Schrier’s full remarks, click here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact check: Claims swirling on California gas prices

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 25, 2025

    What you need to know: There are many disingenuous claims swirling about California gas prices “set to soar” – the truth is that gas prices won’t come anywhere close to increasing by 65 cents, as many would have you believe.  

    SACRAMENTO – California gas prices are 20 cents lower than one month ago and 17 cents lower than one year ago – despite a swirl of misinformation drawing attention to current prices.

    According to a 2024 report, thanks to major improvements in fuel efficiency, California drivers rank 45th in the nation for gasoline consumption and 21st in spending on gasoline per capita. Trump’s tariffs and policies impacting the price of crude oil stand to swing gas prices far more than any state policy. 

    Driven by misinformation pushed by Republican lawmakers and the oil industry, there remains a lot of speculation about California gas prices. Here are the facts.

    CLAIM: California gas prices will go up by 65 cents or higher on July 1. 

    FALSE. There are two separate changes to fuel prices expected on or around July 1 – a legislatively mandated and voter-approved gas tax increase of 1.6 cents and updated fuel standards that could, according to experts, translate to 5 to 8 cents. 

    • Gas tax: California’s gasoline tax will increase by 1.6 cents per gallon, starting July 1, as required by law. This annual inflation increase was enacted by the Legislature in 2017 to help pay for road repairs – and overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2018 when they rejected a repeal attempt. 
    • Fuel standard: Additionally, changes to the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) – which is not a tax – have been requested to go into effect on July 1. Experts at UC Davis estimate this program, first established by Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, could add between 5 and 8 cents per gallon – well below one extreme projection that showed 65 cents. In the long term, LCFS is estimated to reduce fuel costs for Californians per mile by 42% – translating to savings of over $20 billion in gasoline costs every year by 2045. Studies also show that LCFS credit prices have no correlation with gasoline prices.

    CLAIM: Gas prices could top $8 a gallon by next year.  

    FALSE. That number – widely reported in the media – comes from an unscientific analysis whose author has close ties with the oil industry and has been on the payroll of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The author fails to provide evidence to support his main claim and only relies on vague references to models with no details on what those models are based on. Other experts, such as these Stanford economists, say gas price increases based on recent refinery announcements are likely to be negligible. 

    Correcting the record

    Republican lawmakers in Congress recently echoed false claims about California gas prices in a letter. Here’s what they got wrong. (View full-size here.)

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced $135 million is available for wildfire prevention grants – protecting communities from catastrophic wildfire at the same time as President Trump adds new strain to firefighting resources. SACRAMENTO – As President…

    Jun 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: As part of California Jobs First, the state is awarding $15 million through the Regional Investment Initiative to support California Native American tribal partners in creating jobs and developing high-paying and fulfilling careers….

    Jun 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: The First Partner launched her annual Book Club today, which features great kids’ reads curated by librarians across California, as well as investments to support library community programming. SACRAMENTO – California First Partner Jennifer…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Gas Networks in Court over alleged greenwashing in renewable gas campaign

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The ACCC has launched Federal Court action against gas distributor Australian Gas Networks Limited alleging it made false and misleading representations in its ‘Love Gas’ TV and digital advertising campaign.

    The ACCC alleges Australian Gas Networks misled millions of consumers when it represented, in ads that ran during 2022 and 2023, that the gas it distributes to households on its network will be renewable within a generation.

    Australian Gas Networks did not have reasonable grounds for making the unqualified claim about the future of gas, which featured in advertisements run on free-to-air television, streaming services and on YouTube, the ACCC alleges.

    “We allege that Australian Gas Networks engaged in greenwashing in its ‘Love Gas’ ad campaign,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “We allege that the ads overstated the likelihood of Australian Gas Networks overcoming significant technical and economic barriers to distribute renewable gas to households within a generation.”

    “It is not currently possible to distribute renewable gas at scale and at an economically viable price, and throughout 2022 and 2023 it was highly uncertain whether, and if so when, this would be possible,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “We allege that even though Australian Gas Networks knew the future of renewable gas was uncertain, it made an unqualified representation to consumers that it would distribute renewable gas to households within a generation.”

    “We say these ads were intended to encourage consumers to connect to, or remain connected to, Australian Gas Networks’ distribution network and to purchase gas appliances for their homes, based on the misleading impression they would receive ‘renewable gas’ within a generation,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “We consider that consumers were deprived of the opportunity to make fully informed choices, in accordance with their values, about the most appropriate energy sources for use in their homes, the household appliances they should invest in, and the steps they could take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

    The claims by Australian Gas Networks were contained in four advertisements which all featured a young girl and her father using gas appliances in the home for cooking, bathing or heating. The advertisements then fast-forward in time to show the girl, now portrayed as a young adult, engaging in the same household activities.

    The ads featured a voiceover stating the following, or similar:

    • Some things never change, but the flame we use will.
    • It’s becoming renewable.
    • Controllable, reliable gas.
    • For this generation and the next.

    The final frame of each ad featured the company’s logo next to a green flame, and the words; “Love gas. Love a renewable gas future”; or just “Love Gas”.

    The ads did not contain any qualifications, fine print or disclaimers.

    “Businesses that make false or misleading environmental claims make it harder for consumers to support businesses that are genuinely working to reduce their environmental impact,” Ms Cass-Gottlieb said.

    “Businesses that make environmental claims about the future must have reasonable grounds for those claims, or they will be taken to be misleading under the Australian Consumer Law. Businesses must take care when they promote emissions-reduction measures that their claims can be backed up with evidence, and that they are realistic about emerging energy technologies and when changes are likely to be achieved. Misleading claims not only break the trust of consumers, they also breach the Australian Consumer Law.”

    The ACCC is seeking declarations, penalties, costs and other orders.

    Background

    The “Love Gas” advertising campaign ran between 20 March 2022 to 2 October 2022 and again from 1 August 2023 to 15 October 2023.

    Australian Gas Networks is one of Australia’s largest gas infrastructure businesses. It owns and operates gas transmission and distribution pipelines.

    Australian Gas Networks distributes natural gas to around 1.3 million homes and businesses, principally in Victoria and South Australia, as well as in Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory.

    The ACCC commenced this investigation after receiving complaints about Australian Gas Networks from consumers and the Australian Conservation Foundation.

    In December 2023, the ACCC published its guidance for businesses on making environmental and sustainability claims. It sets out what the ACCC considers to be misleading conduct and good practice when making such claims, to help businesses provide clear, accurate and trustworthy information to consumers about the current and future environmental performance of their business.

    Images from the Love Gas Advertisements

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: News release: CanREA Summit examines renewables investment in Canada’s current financial landscape

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: News release: CanREA Summit examines renewables investment in Canada’s current financial landscape

    At Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit 2025, finance and energy industry experts highlighted massive opportunities for investors, developers and policymakers to build a clean, affordable and resilient energy future for all Canadians.

    Toronto, June 25, 2025— More than 200 people attended the second edition of Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit, a full-day conference presented by CIBC and held at CIBC Square in downtown Toronto today.

    This annual event brings together clean energy companies and investment experts to discuss the particularities of investing in renewable energy and energy storage projects, aiming to understand the current financial landscape of Canada’s clean-energy industry, which stands ready to build modular, scalable, clean energy projects at pace to serve Canadian industries, businesses and homes.

    “Clean electricity is a strategic Canadian advantage, and Canada is open for business: CanREA is currently tracking more than 18 GW of new clean energy projects, representing more than $34 billion in investment, and there continues to be massive opportunities for investors, developers and policymakers to collaborate in building a cleaner energy future for Canadians,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

    “As global electricity demand continues to rise, we must accelerate the planning and execution of clean energy projects to ensure affordable, reliable and sustainable power for our industries, businesses and households.”

    Many leading Canadian finance and energy experts highlighted the critical role of strategic investments and policy support in accelerating Canada’s clean energy transition in the current geopolitical landscape.

    “As markets across Canada continue to seek new energy sources, the clean electricity sector has a unique opportunity to satisfy some of those needs and CIBC is ready to support our clients’ ambitions in the sector,” said James Brooks, Managing Director & Co-Head, Energy, Infrastructure & Transition, Global Investment Banking, CIBC.

    Roman Dubczak (Deputy Chair at CIBC Capital Markets), delivered the Summit’s opening remarks, alongside CanREA’s Bellissimo, followed by a keynote address from Sashen Guneratna (Managing Director, Investments, at Canada Infrastructure Bank).

    In the opening plenary, “Global trends, local impacts: How will international trade and energy policies affect Canada’s clean energy markets,” moderator Michelle Chislett (Executive VP at Northland Power) and panelists James Brooks (Managing Director and Co-Head of Energy, Infrastructure and Investment Banking at CIBC), Elizabeth Kaiga (CCO of Energy Systems, North America at DNV) and Ryan Lax (Counsel, Torys LLP) provided informed answers to urgent questions about the current global trade and energy landscape and how to navigate these turbulent times.

    Other highlights included:

    In “Cutting edge: Financing emerging clean power technologies,” panelists delved into the innovative tech poised to burst onto the clean-power scene—and the supply chains required to service them.

    In “Indigenous equity financing: Funding opportunities for clean energy partnerships,” speakers identified well-known obstacles and various financing and investment solutions for Indigenous communities seeking equity partnerships.

    In “Mapping the political landscape: Policy insights for Canada’s clean power industry,” speakers discussed Canada’s current energy and electricity policies as the cornerstone of our economic growth and national sovereignty.

    In “Canada’s Renewable Energy Market Outlook 2025,” representatives of CanREA and Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors offered a preview of their upcoming report, launching in September 2025, which will present a comprehensive forecast and analysis of the future costs and market outlook for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage technologies across Canada.

    At the annual “CanREA Connects Ontario” networking reception, nearly 300 industry professionals capped off the Summit with drinks, laughs and discussions about the day’s topics.

    “This year’s Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit investigated the financial mechanisms driving Canada’s clean energy future and examined how we can ensure the investment needed to accelerate the deployment of all the affordable clean power we will need in the coming years,” said Wesley Johnston, CanREA’s Vice President, Business Development, Finance and Operations.

    “This event is about more than just capital—it’s about collaboration between developers, investors, Indigenous partners and policymakers, to get clean energy projects built on time and on budget.”

    CanREA wishes to thank all attendees, moderators and speakers for helping to make the Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit a success. A special word of thanks to our Presenting Sponsor CIBC, as well as Platinum Sponsors Vancity Community Investment Bank (VCIB) & Northland Power, Gold Sponsors DNV, Gowling WLG & Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors, Silver Sponsors Goldwind, EDF, LCAB & Osler, and Bronze Sponsors Innergex, Compass Energy Consulting, RES Group, TACT, KPMG, Hub International, PCL Construction, Phoventus & Nordex.

    Photos

    Photo: More than 200 people attended the second annual Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit, held June 25 in downtown Toronto. This full-day conference, hosted by the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), brings together industry leaders and investment experts, aiming to open dialogue between Canada’s finance and clean power industries.

    Photo: Roman Dubczak, Deputy Chair at CIBC Capital Markets, delivered opening remarks from the Summit’s Presenting Sponsor, CIBC.

    Photo: The opening plenary, “Global trends, local impacts: How will international trade and energy policies affect Canada’s clean energy markets,” featured moderator Michelle Chislett (Executive VP at Northland Power) and panelists James Brooks (Managing Director and Co-Head of Energy, Infrastructure and Investment Banking at CIBC), Elizabeth Kaiga (CCO of Energy Systems, North America at DNV) and Ryan Lax (Counsel, Torys LLP).

    Quotes

    “As markets across Canada continue to seek new energy sources, the clean electricity sector has a unique opportunity to satisfy some of those needs and CIBC is ready to support our clients’ ambitions in the sector.”
    —James Brooks, Managing Director & Co-Head, Energy, Infrastructure & Transition, Global Investment Banking CIBC

    “Clean electricity is a strategic Canadian advantage, and Canada is open for business: CanREA is currently tracking more than 18 GW of new clean energy projects, representing more than $34 billion in investment, and there continues to be massive opportunities for investors, developers and policymakers to collaborate in building a cleaner energy future for Canadians. As global electricity demand continues to rise, we must accelerate the planning and execution of clean energy projects to ensure affordable, reliable and sustainable power for our industries, businesses and households.”
    —Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

    “This year’s Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit investigated the financial mechanisms driving Canada’s clean energy future and examined how we can ensure the investment needed to accelerate the deployment of all the affordable clean power we will need in the coming years. This event is about more than just capital—it’s about collaboration between developers, investors, Indigenous partners and policymakers, to get clean energy projects built on time and on budget.”
    —Wesley Johnston, Vice President, Business Development, Finance and Operations, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

    For interview opportunities, please contact:

    Michaela Ianni, Communications SpecialistCanadian Renewable Energy Association613-805-4465communications@renewablesassociation.ca

    About CanREA

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

    The post News release: CanREA Summit examines renewables investment in Canada’s current financial landscape appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on U.S. Strike on Nuclear Facilities in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the United States carried out a strike on nuclear facilities in Iran:

    “The U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan yesterday was essential to preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.

    “Every American president since Jimmy Carter, regardless of party, as well as multiple generations of both Democratic and Republican leadership in Congress, articulated the bipartisan policy that allowing Iran to develop nuclear weapons was unacceptable. They made it clear that the United States would take whatever action necessary to prevent that outcome and counter the dire threat a nuclear-armed Iran would pose to the world, the Middle East, and directly to America and Israel.

    “In the past few weeks, the International Atomic Energy Agency censured Iran for continuing its nuclear weapons program. Iranian leaders sent a clear message that they were ignoring our longstanding policy. Israel believed that Iran was on the verge of achieving its goal and struck Iranian nuclear sites. Yesterday, the United States did the same, bombing Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. That was in keeping with our stated position against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

    “I am relieved that our service members were able to conduct this limited, one-time operation safely, and I thank them for their courage. These strikes were designed to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program, but neither the U.S., nor Israel, nor any other nation wants to go to war with the Iranian people, or Iran itself. We don’t know what the coming days will hold, but we must do everything possible to protect U.S. and allied forces from Iranian retaliation.

    “Sadly, the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran became this dire because the Trump Administration chose to back out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2018. Yesterday’s operation helped counter that threat, but America must continue working to close Iran’s path to nuclear weapons permanently.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: García, Ocasio-Cortez, DeGette Send Letter Urging HHS Secretary Kennedy to Immediately Cease Sharing Non-citizen Medicaid Data with Immigration Enforcement Officials

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Diana DeGette (CO-01), who serves as ranking member for the Subcommittee on Health on the Energy and Commerce Committee, led 28 colleagues in a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. regarding the reported sharing of non-citizen Medicaid enrollee data with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement purposes.

    “We write to urge CMS to immediately cease any data sharing with DHS and to direct DHS to destroy any individually identifiable health information transmitted by CMS to DHS,” wrote the lawmakers. “We are particularly concerned that these latest actions will have a chilling effect and jeopardize access to services for those who rely on Medicaid and other public programs for lifesaving care, including the 5.5 million U.S. citizen children in mixed status families.”

    Reporting from the Associated Press (AP) details new efforts by the Trump administration to access and share the private, personally identifiable information of individuals residing in the U.S. According to the AP, top advisors at HHS ordered the release of Medicaid enrollees’ sensitive personal information to DHS despite nonpartisan expert officials’ reported concerns that sharing such data would raise considerable ethical concerns and could violate federal law, including the Social Security Act and the Privacy Act of 1974.

    At the end of the letter, the lawmakers posed the following questions: 

    1. Please detail any and all communication with state Medicaid officials regarding the Trump administration’s efforts to obtain this data, including the exact information requested from state Medicaid agencies subject to the audit described in “SUBJECT: Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders.”13 In addition: 

      a. Please include the parameters outlining for which Medicaid applicants or enrollees CMS requested information (i.e., did CMS obtain data specifically on individuals for whom emergency Medicaid payments were made to hospitals, individuals who received statefunded health benefits, individuals who are lawfully present and eligible for Medicaid and/or Children’s Health Insurance Program benefits);

      b. Please specify if such requested information included personally identifiable information such as name and address and, if so, what such information; and c. 

      c. As of the date of your response, please specify which states have provided such information as well as which states have received inquiries.

    2. Please provide copies of any data sharing agreements between CMS and any state for which CMS has provided data to DHS.

    3. What, if any, data was requested from HHS by DHS and for what purpose?

      a. On what date did DHS request such data?

    4. What, if any, data was shared by HHS with DHS and in what format?   
    5. What legal authority, if any, is CMS citing for the release of this personally identifiable information to DHS?

    6. Please share the below correspondence:

      a. Any and all communication from HHS and CMS to DHS regarding the transfer of this data.

      b. Any and all communication within HHS about sharing this data, including the memo prepared by CMS staff detailing their objections to the sharing of personal information of non-citizen enrollees.

    7. Did HHS and DHS enter into a data sharing agreement or any other memorandum of understanding pertaining to the use of Medicaid data or resources for the purposes of immigration enforcement? If so, please provide a copy of that agreement. If not, please explain why the agencies did not enter into a data sharing agreement or other memorandum and describe what, if any, policies and practices are in place regarding the storage, retrievability, access controls, retention, and disposal of the data, as required by the Privacy Act of 1974.

    They requested that Secretary Kennedy provide written responses by no later than Monday, July 21, 2025.

    In addition to Reps. García, Ocasio-Cortez, and DeGette, the letter was signed by Reps. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Doris Matsui (CA-07), James McGovern (MA-02), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Norton (DC), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Norma Torres (CA-35), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07). 

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –