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Category: Renewable Energy

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and China restart meaningful climate change dialogue

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK and China restart meaningful climate change dialogue

    Energy Secretary calls for action and cooperation from China to tackle the climate emergency.

    • Energy Secretary visits Beijing to urge continued action from China – the world’s biggest emitter – to tackle the climate emergency   
    • Miliband expected to say there is no route to keeping future generations safe from climate threat without engaging China in responsible climate leadership
    • UK and China agree to secure and pragmatic cooperation and lesson sharing on climate and clean energy – delivering on government’s Plan for Change to re-engage with China on issues that matter to the British people

    Pragmatic cooperation with China will help keep British people safe from the climate crisis, as UK and Chinese ministers are set to meet in Beijing for the first formal talks to accelerate climate action in nearly 8 years.  

    As the government pursues its mission to become a clean energy superpower under the Plan for Change, The Energy Secretary will meet with China’s National Energy Administrator Minister Wang Hongzhi and China’s Ecology and Environment Minister Huang Runqiu in Beijing to commit to pragmatic engagement on the climate crisis, cooperating with China to reduce global emissions. 

    The UK is expected to launch a formal Climate Dialogue with Chinese counterparts, inviting Chinese ministers to London later this year, and for the first time institutionalising climate change talks between both countries moving forward. 

    China is the world’s largest investor and supplier of renewable energy but it remains the world’s largest emitter responsible for more emissions than the US, EU, India, and UK combined. China’s contribution to climate action is therefore crucial to tackling one of the biggest global challenges the world faces.   

    The Energy Secretary will also use the visit to engage frankly with China on UK concerns on issues like forced labour in supply chains, human rights and freedoms in Hong Kong, and China’s ongoing support for Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.  

    The climate crisis is an existential threat to our way of life in Britain. Extreme weather is changing the lives of people and communities across country; from thousands of acres of farmland being submerged due to storms like Bert and Daragh, to record numbers of heat-related deaths in recent summers. In turn, China are feeling the effects with temperatures in Beijing remaining above 35°C for a record breaking 28 days last year.  

    The government’s Plan for Change is restoring the UK’s role as a responsible climate leader, and re-engaging with the world’s second largest economy will remain critical in delivering both climate and energy security for Britain and across the world.   

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:  

    We can only keep future generations safe from climate change if all major emitters act. It is simply an act of negligence to today’s and future generations not to engage China on how it can play its part in taking action on climate. 

    That is why I will be meeting Chinese ministers for frank conversations about how both countries can fulfil the aims of the Paris Climate Agreement, to which both countries are signed up.  

    Our Plan for Change and clean energy superpower mission is about energy security, lower bills, good jobs and growth for the British people. It is with this mission that we can also influence climate action on a global stage, fight for our way of life and keep our planet safe for our children and grandchildren.

    The Energy Secretary will refresh an outdated 10-year-old UK Clean Energy Partnership with China – which will now provide clarity on areas where the UK government can securely collaborate with China on areas of mutual benefit – such as new emerging technologies, including hydrogen and carbon capture and storage. The UK will also share expertise on phasing out coal, having closed its last coal-fired power station last year.

    This will establish a formal agreed platform with China to engage with them on potential UK and global energy security concerns, and creating a channel to challenge them on areas where we disagree, such as forced labour in supply chains.

    This further boosts already robust national security controls in our critical infrastructure such as the National Security and Investment Act – providing a strengthened mechanism to protect the UK’s national security, which is the first duty of government.

    This is part of the government’s commitment to a long-term, strategic and pragmatic relationship with China, rooted in UK and global interests – cooperating where we can, competing where we need to, and challenging where we must. 

    As an open economy, the UK welcomes investment from a wide range of countries and investors on the basis is supports the UK’s mission for growth securely and pragmatically. The government will not hesitate to use established powers to protect national security in energy infrastructure whenever concerns are identified. These discussions complement the government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower, delivering energy security and bringing down bills for good. The expected rise in the price cap shows once again the cost of remaining reliant on the unstable global fossil fuel markets that are driving price increases. 

    Three years on from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, wholesale gas prices have now risen by 15% compared to the previous price cap period, which is directly affecting the cost of generating power and heating of homes. Moving to a power system based on homegrown, clean energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on volatile markets and protect billpayers.  

    To achieve this, government has set out the most ambitious reforms of the UK’s energy system in a generation. Within its first eight months in office, the government has lifted the onshore wind ban, established Great British Energy, approved nearly 3GW of solar, delivered a record-breaking renewables auction and kickstarted the carbon capture and hydrogen industries in the UK – helping to deliver energy security, grow the economy and deliver clean, cheap energy.    

    Notes to editors

    The last time an Energy Secretary visited Beijing for a formal climate and energy dialogue was in 2017. COP26 President Alok Sharma visited Tianjin in 2021 ahead of the COP26 summit in Glasgow.

    However, both our formal partnerships with China on climate and clean energy both date back to 2015. And this visit signals a shift in the dial in re-engaging with China and updating relationships in line with the current global landscape.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Marshall Islands: How the Rongelap evacuation changed the course of history

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Giff Johnson, editor of the Marshall Islands Journal and RNZ Pacific correspondent in Majuro

    The late Member of Parliament Jeton Anjain and the people of the nuclear test-affected Rongelap Atoll changed the course of the history of the Marshall Islands by using Greenpeace’s Rainbow Warrior ship to evacuate their radioactive home islands 40 years ago.

    They did this by taking control of their own destiny after decades of being at the mercy of the United States nuclear testing programme and its aftermath.

    In 1954, the US tested the Bravo hydrogen bomb test at Bikini Atoll, spewing high-level radioactive fallout on unsuspecting Rongelap Islanders nearby.

    For years after the Bravo test, decisions by US government doctors and scientists caused Rongelap Islanders to be continuously exposed to additional radiation.

    Marshall Islands traditional and government leaders joined Greenpeace representatives in showing off tapa banners with the words “Justice for Marshall Islands” during the dockside welcome ceremony earlier this week in Majuro. Image: Giff Johnson/RNZ Pacific

    The 40th anniversary of the dramatic evacuation of Rongelap Atoll in 1985 by the Greenpeace vessel Rainbow Warrior — a few weeks before French secret agents bombed the ship in Auckland harbour — was spotlighted this week in Majuro with the arrival of Greenpeace’s flagship Rainbow Warrior III to a warm welcome combining top national government leaders, the Rongelap Atoll Local Government and the Rongelap community.

    “We were displaced, our lives were disrupted, and our voices ignored,” said MP Hilton Kendall, who represents Rongelap in the Marshall Islands Parliament, at the welcome ceremony in Majuro earlier in the week.

    “In our darkest time, Greenpeace stood with us.”

    ‘Evacuated people to safety’
    He said the Rainbow Warrior “evacuated the people to safety” in 1985.

    Greenpeace would “forever be remembered by the people of Rongelap,” he added.

    The Able US nuclear test at Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands on 1 July 1946. Image: US National Archives

    In 1984, Jeton Anjain — like most Rongelap people who were living on the nuclear test-affected atoll — knew that Rongelap was unsafe for continued habitation.

    There was not a single scientist or medical doctor among their community although Jeton was a trained dentist, and they mainly depended on US Department of Energy-provided doctors and scientists for health care and environmental advice.

    They were always told not to worry and that everything was fine.

    Crew of the Rainbow Warrior and other Greenpeace officials — including two crew members from the original Rainbow Warrior, Bunny McDiarmid and Henk Hazen, from Aotearoa New Zealand – were welcomed to the Marshall Islands during a dockside ceremony in Majuro to mark the 40th anniversary of the evacuation of Rongelap Atoll. Image: Giff Johnson/RNZ Pacific

    But it wasn’t, as the countless thyroid tumors, cancers, miscarriages and surgeries confirmed.

    As the desire of Rongelap people to evacuate their homeland intensified in 1984, unbeknown to them Greenpeace was hatching a plan to dispatch the Rainbow Warrior on a Pacific voyage the following year to turn a spotlight on the nuclear test legacy in the Marshall Islands and the ongoing French nuclear testing at Moruroa in French Polynesia.

    A Rainbow Warrior question
    As I had friends in the Greenpeace organisation, I was contacted early on in its planning process with the question: How could a visit by the Rainbow Warrior be of use to the Marshall Islands?

    Jeton and I were good friends by 1984, and had worked together on advocacy for Rongelap since the late 1970s. I informed him that Greenpeace was planning a visit and without hesitation he asked me if the ship could facilitate the evacuation of Rongelap.

    At this time, Jeton had already initiated discussions with Kwajalein traditional leaders to locate an island that they could settle in that atoll.

    I conveyed Jeton’s interest in the visit to Greenpeace, and a Greenpeace International board member, the late Steve Sawyer, who coordinated the Pacific voyage of the Rainbow Warrior, arranged a meeting for the three of us in Seattle to discuss ideas.

    Jeton and I flew to Seattle and met Steve. After the usual preliminaries, Jeton asked Steve if the Rainbow Warrior could assist Rongelap to evacuate their community to Mejatto Island in Kwajalein Atoll, a distance of about 250 km.

    Steve responded in classic Greenpeace campaign thinking, which is what Greenpeace has proved effective in doing over many decades. He said words to the effect that the Rainbow Warrior could aid a “symbolic evacuation” by taking a small group of islanders from Rongelap to Majuro or Ebeye and holding a media conference publicising their plight with ongoing radiation exposure.

    “No,” said Jeton firmly. He wasn’t talking about a “symbolic” evacuation. He told Steve: “We want to evacuate Rongelap, the entire community and the housing, too.”

    Steve Sawyer taken aback
    Steve was taken aback by what Jeton wanted. Steve simply hadn’t considered the idea of evacuating the entire community.

    But we could see him mulling over this new idea and within minutes, as his mind clicked through the significant logistics hurdles for evacuation of the community — including that it would take three-to-four trips by the Rainbow Warrior between Rongelap and Mejatto to accomplish it — Steve said it was possible.

    And from that meeting, planning for the 1985 Marshall Islands visit began in earnest.

    I offer this background because when the evacuation began in early May 1985, various officials from the United States government sharply criticised Rongelap people for evacuating their atoll, saying there was no radiological hazard to justify the move and that they were being manipulated by Greenpeace for its own anti-nuclear agenda.

    Women from the nuclear test-affected Rongelap Atoll greeted the Rainbow Warrior and its crew with songs and dances this week as part of celebrating the 40th anniversary of the evacuation of Rongelap Atoll in 1985 by the Rainbow Warrior. Image: Giff Johnson/RNZ Pacific

    This condescending American government response suggested Rongelap people did not have the brain power to make important decisions for themselves.

    But it also showed the US government’s lack of understanding of the gravity of the situation in which Rongelap Islanders lived day in and day out in a highly radioactive environment.

    The Bravo hydrogen bomb test blasted Rongelap and nearby islands with snow-like radioactive fallout on 1 March 1954. The 82 Rongelap people were first evacuated to the US Navy base at Kwajalein for emergency medical treatment and the start of long-term studies by US government doctors.

    No radiological cleanup
    A few months later, they were resettled on Ejit Island in Majuro, the capital atoll, until 1957 when, with no radiological cleanup conducted, the US government said it was safe to return to Rongelap and moved the people back.

    “Even though the radioactive contamination of Rongelap Island is considered perfectly safe for human habitation, the levels of activity are higher than those found in other inhabited locations in the world,” said a Brookhaven National Laboratory report commenting on the return of Rongelap Islanders to their contaminated islands in 1957.

    It then stated plainly why the people were moved back: “The habitation of these people on the island will afford most valuable ecological radiation data on human beings.”

    And for 28 years, Rongelap people lived in one of the world’s most radioactive environments, consuming radioactivity through the food chain and by living an island life.

    Proving the US narrative of safety to be false, the 1985 evacuation forced the US Congress to respond by funding new radiological studies of Rongelap.

    Thanks to the determination of the soft-spoken but persistent leadership of Jeton, he ensured that a scientist chosen by Rongelap would be included in the study. And the new study did indeed identify health hazards, particularly for children, of living on Rongelap.

    The US Congress responded by appropriating US$45 million to a Rongelap Resettlement Trust Fund.

    Subsistence atoll life
    All of this was important — it both showed that islanders with a PhD in subsistence atoll life understood more about their situation than the US government’s university educated PhDs and medical doctors who showed up from time-to-time to study them, provide medical treatment, and tell them everything was fine on their atoll, and it produced a $45 million fund from the US government.

    However, this is only a fraction of the story about why the Rongelap evacuation in 1985 forever changed the US narrative and control of its nuclear test legacy in this country.

    The crew of Greenpeace’s Rainbow Warrior III vessel were serenaded by the Rongelap community to mark the 40th anniversary of the evacuation of Rongelap Islanders from their nuclear test-affected islands this week in Majuro. Image: Giff Johnson/RNZ Pacific

    Rongelap is the most affected population from the US hydrogen bomb testing programme in the 1950s.

    By living on Rongelap, the community confirmed the US government’s narrative that all was good and the nuclear test legacy was largely a relic of the past.

    The 1985 evacuation was a demonstration of the Rongelap community exerting control over their life after 31 years of dictates by US government doctors, scientists and officials.

    It was difficult building a new community on Mejatto Island, which was uninhabited and barren in 1985. Make no mistake, Rongelap people living on Mejatto suffered hardship and privation, especially in the first years after the 1985 resettlement.

    Nuclear legacy history
    Their perseverance, however, defined the larger ramification of the move to Mejatto: It changed the course of nuclear legacy history by people taking control of their future that forced a response from the US government to the benefit of the Rongelap community.

    Forty years later, the displacement of Rongelap Islanders on Mejatto and in other locations, unable to return to nuclear test contaminated Rongelap Atoll demonstrates clearly that the US nuclear testing legacy remains unresolved — unfinished business that is in need of a long-term, fair and just response from the US government.

    The Rainbow Warrior will be in Majuro until next week when it will depart for Mejatto Island to mark the 40th anniversary of the resettlement, and then voyage to other nuclear test-affected atolls around the Marshall Islands.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hubble Spies a Spiral in the Water Snake

    Source: NASA

    This NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image of a vibrant spiral galaxy called NGC 5042 resides about 48 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Hydra (the water snake). The galaxy nicely fills the frame of this Hubble image, while a single, foreground star from the Milky Way shines with cross-shaped diffraction spikes near the galaxy’s edge toward the top, center of the image.
    Hubble observed NGC 5042 in six wavelength bands from the ultraviolet to infrared to create this multicolored portrait. The galaxy’s cream-colored center is packed with ancient stars, and the galaxy’s spiral arms are decorated with patches of young, blue stars. The elongated yellow-orange objects scattered around the image are background galaxies far more distant than NGC 5042.
    Perhaps NGC 5042’s most striking feature is its collection of brilliant pink gas clouds studded throughout its spiral arms. These flashy clouds are H II (pronounced “H-two” or hydrogen-two) regions, and they get their distinctive color from hydrogen atoms that were ionized by ultraviolet light. If you look closely at this image, you’ll see that many of these reddish clouds are associated with clumps of blue stars, often appearing to form a shell around the stars.
    H II regions arise in expansive clouds of hydrogen gas, and only hot and massive stars produce enough high-energy, ultraviolet light to create a H II region. Because the stars capable of creating H II regions only live for a few million years — just a blink of an eye in galactic terms — this image represents a fleeting snapshot of this galaxy.

    Media Contact:
    Claire Andreoli (claire.andreoli@nasa.gov)NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Withdrawal of energy companies from offshore wind projects – E-002909/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    While it is not for the Commission to comment on the commercial decisions of companies to invest or abstain from investing in individual projects, closely monitoring the offshore wind sector is a priority to achieve energy objectives.

    The offshore wind investment market is mature and competitive. Nevertheless, the offshore wind industry has recently rising costs driven by inflation, higher interest rates, and supply chain bottlenecks, creating financial pressure for developers.

    In response, the Commission launched the European Wind Power Package[1] in October 2023 to accelerate permitting, improve access to finance, strengthen grid infrastructure, and scale up supply chains.

    These efforts are yielding results: over 20 GW of offshore wind is now installed in EU waters, with many new auctions and projects ahead. Economic conditions are also easing, with declining inflation and interest rates.

    The Commission continues to work with Member States and stakeholders to accelerate deployment. To limit public funding risks, a key focus is efficient planning and fair cost and benefit sharing solutions for offshore grids investments, typically financed via network tariffs.

    In June 2024, the Commission published guidance on collaborative investment frameworks for offshore projects[2], supporting tailored mechanisms and dedicated regional approaches.

    Further discussions and engagement with Member States are ongoing. In 2025, the Commissioner for Energy and Housing will present the Clean Energy Investment Plan.

    On 18 December 2024, Member States reaffirmed offshore wind’s role in EU’s energy security and transition, updating regional goals to 88 GW by 2030 and 360 GW by 2050, providing visibility and support to the sector.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_5185
    • [2] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/publications/guidance-collaborative-investment-frameworks-offshore-energy-projects_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Transparency, priorities and financial risks of the ‘Scaling up renewables in Africa’ campaign – E-002617/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission applies strict rules for the management of all projects, according to the rules and procedures applicable to external instruments as set in the Financial Regulation[1]. These provisions help to ensure full transparency and appropriate use of public funds.

    Working in a Team Europe[2] approach the EU ensures strong coordination and tangible impact on the ground. A key Team Europe Initiative on sustainable energy under the EU Global Gateway strategy[3] is the Africa-EU Green Energy Initiative[4] (AEGEI).

    The campaign showcases AEGEI investments jointly identified by the African partners and the EU. Ownership, transparency and accountability are at the core of the EU and African partners cooperation.

    Improving access to affordable and reliable energy is a cornerstone of the EU’s partnership with African countries. AEGEI aims to establish 50GW of additional renewable energy generation capacity, including with solar and wind power. In addition, it strives to bring electricity access to at least 100 million people by 2030.

    The objective of the campaign is to leverage further commitments in renewable energy access, renewable power generation, grids and storage. Increasing access to affordable and reliable energy and green hydrogen industrialization are complementary goals. Both can create sustainable prosperity, jobs, and services for people.

    The Commission thoroughly reviews the macroeconomic outlook of partner countries to safeguard EU taxpayers against inflationary and financial risks.

    The Commission supports capacity building investments that contribute to creating a self-sustaining economy. Local communities are actively engaged in the projects to ensure that investments meet their needs and lead to sustainable development.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/eu-financial-regulation_en
    • [2] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/team-europe-initiatives_en
    • [3] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/global-gateway_en
    • [4] https://international-partnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/global-gateway/africa-europe-green-energy_en
    Last updated: 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: PhysMech and SPbPU PISh “Digital Engineering” presented research at the Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Representatives of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (SPbPU) and the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” (AES) took part inXXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics in Perm. The event was held within the framework of the Program for the creation and development of a world-class scientific center “Supersonic” for 2020-2024 with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    The event was organized by the Institute of Continuous Media Mechanics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences – a branch of the Perm Federal Research Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    The Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics is held to build a systematic discussion on current issues in this field and is aimed at developing research activities, including among young specialists. The event included a competition of reports among students, postgraduates and young scientists.

    The XXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics was attended by 320 people from 21 cities of Russia, including St. Petersburg, Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Izhevsk, Kazan, Samara and others. The event featured 319 reports in eight sections, the abstracts of which were included in the collection of papers on the results of the school.

    The main topics of the event program:

    computational continuum mechanics, physics and mechanics of meso- and nanostructured systems, mechanics of functional materials, convection, hydrodynamic stability and turbulence, hydrodynamics of non-Newtonian fluids and fluids with special properties, fundamental and applied magnetohydrodynamics, continuum mechanics in biology and medicine, mining mechanics, monitoring of natural and man-made systems.

    Scientists, postgraduates, and students of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU presented the results of research and development by research teams on current issues in computational continuum mechanics, mechanics of functional materials, hydrodynamic stability, physics and mechanics of meso- and nanostructured systems, chemomechanics, fundamental and applied hydrodynamics, and gas dynamics. The research results contribute to the development of engineering applications of microelectronics, hydrogen technologies, modern electronic and optoelectronic devices, boiler equipment, methods for testing thermal conductivity at the nanoscale, and calculations of fracture mechanics parameters.

    Plenary reports:

    Krivtsov Anton-Irzhi Miroslavovich, Director of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU, Head of the Laboratory of Modeling of Production Technologies and Processes of the PISh SPbPU, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Using Approaches Based on the Bernoulli-Euler and Schrödinger Gas Dynamics Kinetics Equations to Describing Transport Processes”; Freidin Alexander Borisovich, Senior Researcher, Professor of the Higher School of Mechanics and Control Processes of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Related Problems of Chemomechanics: Statements and Solutions”.

    Sectional reports:

    Belyaev Aleksandr Konstantinovich, Director of the Higher School of Mechanics and Control Processes of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Models of Hydrogen Motion in an Extruder at Low Temperatures”; Kovalev Igor Alekseevich, student of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Dislocation Relaxation of Stresses in a Cylindrical Quantum Ring Near the Free Surface”; Kuzkin Vitaly Andreevich, Professor of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Ballistic Thermoelasticity of Nonlinear Chains”; Savikovsky Artem Viktorovich, postgraduate student of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Calculation of Stress Intensity Factors through Jk-Integrals for Anisotropic Materials”; Sedova Yulia Sergeevna, postgraduate student of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Analysis of the results of testing ring samples of boiler tubes using mechanical models of hydrogen embrittlement”; Ivanova Alexandra Borisovna, postgraduate student of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Related problems of chemomechanics for an elastic and viscoelastic reaction product”.

    The winners of the competition of reports among students, postgraduates and young scientists were awarded diplomas for the presentations of student Igor Kovalev, postgraduates Artem Savikovsky, Alexandra Ivanova and Yulia Sedova, as well as professor of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Physical-Mechanical Institute of SPbPU Vitaly Kuzkin.

    The laureates were awarded at a meeting of the Academic Council of the Physics and Mechanics Institute of SPbPU. Acting Director of the Physics and Mechanics Institute of SPbPU Nikolay Ivanov congratulated the winners and presented them with diplomas.

    The council members highly appreciated the contribution of young scientists to the development of their research areas.

    It is gratifying that such a representative delegation from the Polytechnic University participated in the Perm Winter School. Young scientists and venerable professors confirmed the high level of the St. Petersburg school of mechanics. We wish everyone further success, and especially students who are just starting their path in science, – noted Nikolay Georgievich.

    The team of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” demonstrated research in the field of continuum mechanics, implemented using systems digital engineering technologies for the tasks of medicine, healthcare, construction, automotive and aircraft manufacturing.

    Sectional reports:

    Antonova Olga Vladimirovna, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”, Candidate of Technical Sciences. Topic: “Application of hyperelastic material models to describe the mechanical behavior of high-tech medical devices and biological tissues”; Sadovchenko Ekaterina Alekseevna, Master’s student of the Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU, engineer in the Applied Research and Development direction of the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU. Topic: “Modeling the process of installing dental implants using finite element analysis”; Nezhinskaya Liliya Sergeevna, Master’s student of the Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU, engineer in the Applied Research and Development direction of the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU. Topic: “Study of elastic-plastic properties of meta-biomaterials. Full-scale and virtual tests” in the section “Physics and mechanics of meso- and nanostructured systems”; Ivanov Maxim Vyacheslavovich, engineer of the Department of development of cars and equipment of the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of PISh SPbPU, assistant of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies, graduate of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”. Topic: “Optimization of the bearing capacity of metal panels with a tetrahedral filler”.

    In the course of Olga Antonova’s research, an analysis was conducted of the features of the application of hyperelastic models of materials to describe the behavior of various medical devices and biological tissues used in modern medical practice, primarily in the field of cardiology.

    In the future, the obtained results can be used as a basis for modeling the processes of installing coronary and endobiliary stents, prosthetic rings for annuloplasty, optimizing the methods of these medical interventions, as well as in developing recommendations for medical workers, concluded Olga Vladimirovna.

    Ekaterina Sadovchenko spoke about the methodology for modeling the process of installing dental implants in bone blocks of different densities using the finite element method.

    The research presented by Liliya Nezhinskaya within the framework of the XXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics will allow the formation of mathematical models of meta-biomaterials of various topologies for their further application in the development of products in the field of tissue engineering for the treatment of bone defects.

    It should be noted that the project represents a part research, supported by the Russian Science Foundation, which is carried out by a research group led by the Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation of SPbPU, Head of the SPbPU Digital Engineering School Alexey Borovkov.

    Maxim Ivanov spoke about a project to optimize the load-bearing capacity of metal panels with a tetrahedral filler, which is part of his PhD thesis. Layered panels with such a filler are actively used in construction, the automotive industry, and aircraft manufacturing. The results obtained can be used to optimize the technological process of manufacturing a filler of complex shape.

    The presentations of Liliya Nezhinskaya and Ekaterina Sadovchenko were also noted at the competition of reports among students, postgraduates and young scientists. The winners received diplomas.

    The research of the participants of the XXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics was highly appreciated by the scientific committee, which noted their relevance and practical focus while maintaining the fundamental nature of the approaches used.

    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 Asia-Pac: Green and efficient synthesis of hydrogen peroxide under sunlight could benefit the industry

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Researchers have found an efficient, less energy-intensive, and environmentally friendly way of synthesizing hydrogen peroxide, a chemical that is crucial to the industry for disinfection, paper bleaching, and so on.

    Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a versatile oxidizing agent that is widely used in environmental disinfection, chemical synthesis, paper bleaching, and fuel cells. In addition, the growth of this market is driven by the increasing awareness of disinfection, the rise in the number of surgeries, the prevalence of hospital-acquired infections, and so on. Currently, over 95% of H2O2 is produced industrially using the anthraquinone oxidation process, which is very energy intensive, expensive and produces many hazardous chemicals as by-products.

    Scientists are therefore looking for an environmentally friendly and economical strategy to produce H2O2 from renewable resources with minimal environmental impact. In this context, a new class of porous and ordered polymers with modifiable catalytic sites and light-harvesting properties in visible range, called covalent organic frameworks (COFs), have emerged as promising photocatalysts.

    Figure 1.  Sustainable synthesis and versatile applications of hydrogen peroxide.

    Researchers at S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have designed and prepared a series of COFs having good water affinity through careful control of the hydrazone linkage density and studied their effect on the photocatalytic performance for H2O2 generation. It was observed that the hydrazone-linked COFs provide abundant docking sites for water and oxygen, thereby promoting water oxidation reaction (WOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) – two main pathways for photocatalytic H2O2 generation.

    As a result, the hydrazone-linked COF exhibited exceptional photocatalytic H2O2 production without external sacrificial electron donors when irradiated with a 40 W blue LED (λ = 467 nm). Interestingly, a significant amount of H2O2 (550 μmol g-1 h-1) was also produced under sunlight irradiation, which outperforms most organic photocatalysts under similar conditions, thus demonstrating a clean and sustainable pathway.

    Furthermore, as-synthesized hydrazone-linked COFs can generate H2O2 up to 21641 μmol g-1 h-1 using an aqueous benzyl alcohol solution (water: benzyl alcohol = 90:10) by preventing the degradation of H2O2. This strategy of using a mixture of water-benzyl alcohol solution will be helpful in developing a continuous flow reactor for the sustainable production of H2O2 and will reveal a laboratory-to-industry technology transfer for the benefit of mankind.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2109125) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at butter or vegetable oils and mortality

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine looks at butter and plant based oils intake and mortality.

    Prof Sarah Berry, Professor of Nutritional Sciences, King’s College London, said:

    “The study shows that high butter consumption is linked to increased cancer and total mortality, whereas plant-based oils are linked to a lower risk of overall mortality and death due to cardiovascular disease and cancer.

    “This research is very timely.  Social media is currently awash with influencers promoting butter as a health food and claiming that seed oils are deadly.  This large-scale, long-term study finds the reverse.  The authors produce further evidence that seed oil consumption is linked to improved health and that butter – delicious as it is – should only be consumed once in a while.

    “In a sane world, this study would give the butter bros and anti-seed oil brigade pause for thought, but I’m confident that their brand of nutri-nonsense will continue unabated.”

    Dr Louise Flanagan, Head of Research for the Stroke Association, said: 

    “Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the UK and a leading cause of adult disability – but, fortunately, nine out of 10 strokes can be prevented.  High blood pressure is the cause of around half of all strokes.

    “This study covered a wider range of plant oils than previous research to find that greater consumption of rapeseed oil, soybean oil or olive oil is associated with an overall lower risk of death.  It is positive to see other plant oils being considered in this way as olive oil has been a focus of much research in the past.

    “The suggestion to switch from butter to plant oils is achievable for many people.  However, it was only olive oil that was associated with a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease, including stroke.  Olive oil is typically more expensive than other oils like rapeseed which means that its potential health benefits could be out of financial reach for some.

    “The study didn’t consider what eating both butter and plant oils means in terms of health risks, which is likely to be what many people naturally do.  This is potentially something which could be considered in future studies.

    “The Stroke Association encourages people to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, not smoke and monitor alcohol intake, which can help to maintain healthy blood pressure.  Anyone with concerns should speak to their GP.”

    Prof Parveen Yaqoob, professor of nutritional science at the University of Reading, said:

    “The link between diets high in saturated fat, particularly animal-based fat such as butter and lard, and higher mortality has been argued for decades.  I have seen American adverts from the 1960s extolling the virtues of American housewives “polyunsaturating” their husbands when they come home from work.  This is a fun historical reminder of the link between the food industry and dietary health messages, as well as showing how much woman have had to fight for social progress.

    “This latest research provides strong additional data to support the ‘healthier fats’ theory.  The research followed a large cohort of health workers in America over many years.  The use of food frequency questionnaires means that we are relying on the participants to remember what they have eaten and how much, which we know can be an unreliable indicator of actual dietary patterns.

    “The scientists for this study highlight that not all vegetable oils are equal.  Although butter was being replaced by corn oil and sunflower oil, which are polyunsaturated, in the 1960s and 70s, the oils they are talking about in the research – olive, canola and soybean – are mainly monounsaturated.  The researchers suggests that these are more beneficial than the polyunsaturated fats, and refer to the Mediterranean diet, which is higher in monounsaturated fats such as olive oil, for that reason.  While many Western diets shifted away from saturated fat to polyunsaturated fat in the 1970s, the oils that we consume more often now contain more monounsaturates, which seem to be more beneficial.  Given that there are some plant-based oils that are high in saturates – such as palm oil and coconut oil – it is important to consider them separately.

    “Recent dietary fads have suggested a re-examination of evidence on dietary fat.  People who are confused about these conflicting messages about their diet should focus on broader, well-established advice, which can be summarised as: eat more fresh vegetables.”

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

    “This important study shows that people who chose to eat butter don’t live as long as those who chose to eat vegetable oils.  It is a well conducted prospective study of 221,054 health professionals who were in their fifties when enrolled and followed up for 33 years.  Dietary intakes were assessed every 4 years.  The study reports that those who had the highest intake of butter were 15% more likely to die prematurely (from both cardiovascular disease and cancer).  In comparison the opposite was true (a 16 % reduction in relative risk of all-cause mortality), for participants who had the highest intake of vegetable oil.  The same relationship was seen for olive oil, soybean oil and canola oil (rapeseed oil).

    “The strength of the study is the long period of follow-up, repeated measures of dietary intake and adjustment in the statistical analysis for other factors such as smoking habit and obesity.  The findings do not apply to sunflower, palm or coconut oils which were not consumed to any significant extent in this study.  The limitations are that this an observational study not a randomised controlled trial.  Furthermore, the findings with regard to health professionals may differ from the general population because they are better informed about healthy lifestyle choices.

    “Butter is high in saturated fat, contains some trans fatty acids but is very low in polyunsaturated fats.  Whereas unhydrogenated soybean, canola and olive oils are low in saturated fatty acids but high in unsaturated fats.  Replacement of butter with these vegetable oils is well documented to lower blood cholesterol, particularly that associated with low density lipoprotein (LDL) by about 10%.  This change in LDL cholesterol would be predicted to reduce the relative risk of death by about 3% which is much less than what was observed in this study.  It remains possible that a higher intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially linoleic acid) from the vegetable oil may have played a role in reducing risk by a variety of mechanisms.  An alternative explanation may be that health professionals who are sensible follow prevailing healthy eating and lifestyle advice compared to those who don’t.

    “The take home message is that it is healthier to choose unsaturated vegetable oils rather than butter.  This is particularly relevant as there has been much negative publicity about vegetable oils on social media, which are based on unfounded claims of potential harmful effects, rather than deaths as described in the present study.”

    Prof George Davey Smith, FRS FMedSci, Professor of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Bristol, said:

    “Yet again these studies show that the exposure that is accompanied by large differences in other adverse health exposures – e.g. more than double the rate of cigarette smoking in the highest quartile vs lowest quartile of butter consumption is associated with worse health outcomes.  That these differences cannot be taken into account by the statistical models the authors use is well known; measurement error and unmeasured factors ensure this.  It is now more than 30 years since these authors published two high profile papers back to back in the New England Journal of Medicine claiming that vitamin E supplement use would reduce heart disease risk by 40%.  The claims were incorrect, but many people believed them – the story was the headline news in the New York Times – and started taking vitamin E supplements.  However randomised trials later showed this was nonsense: there was no benefit.  This is documented in the first few minutes of this recent talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IgpTT5ZXXU&t=2s  As in the conclusion of my blog1 on the same authors’ “dark chocolate” paper, the interesting question this paper raises is “why do supposedly legitimate journals keep publishing papers like this?”.”

    1 https://ieureka.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/2024/12/04/dark-chocolate-diabetes/

    ‘Butter and Plant-Based Oils Intake and Mortality’ by Yu Zhang et al. was published in JAMA Internal Medicine at 21:00 UK time on Thursday 6 March 2025.

    DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2025.0205

    Declared interests

    Prof Sarah Berry: “Sarah has received funding from the Almond Board of California, Malaysian Palm Oil Board and ZOE (Chief scientist at ZOE Ltd, options and consultancy at ZOE Ltd.).”

    Dr Louise Flanagan: “None.”

    Prof Parveen Yaqoob: “Professor Parveen Yaqoob is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) of the University of Reading, and professor of nutritional science in the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, which has funding from public bodies, charities and businesses to conduct independent scientific research on food and nutrition.

    The Department has done work on dietary fat, including research co-authored by Parveen as part of the DIVAS project: https://research.reading.ac.uk/ifnh/cases/milk-dairy-consumption-risk-cardiovascular-diseases-cause-mortality/  Mostly government or UKRI funded, with industry partners.  The papers listed from that project list grant numbers.

    Work on reducing saturated fat in dairy was a REF case study, which includes grant numbers from BBSRC and MRC, and had industry partners throughout, which is one of the ways in which the research was considered to have impact.

    https://results2021.ref.ac.uk/impact/eefa0a3d-4ba8-4419-8c28-836e06b41eed?page=1.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University and Rosatom focus on training personnel for the state corporation

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Representatives of the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom, headed by Deputy Director General for Human Resources Tatyana Terentyeva, visited the Polytechnic University on a working visit. The company is interested in expanding cooperation with the Polytechnic in many areas, especially in the field of personnel training and employment of graduates at its enterprises. These topics were discussed at a meeting with the Polytechnic leadership and during an acquaintance with its research base.

    The visit began with a ceremonial presentation of Rosatom awards to the polytechnicians.

    “The Polytechnic University and the State Corporation Rosatom have developed not just business-like, but warm and friendly relations,” Vitaly Sergeev, First Vice-Rector of SPbPU, greeted the guests. “Of course, this is our strategic partner, with whom we work in many areas, both scientific and educational. And it is especially pleasant to begin our meeting with the ceremonial part, with the presentation of awards from the state corporation.”

    Before the ceremony, Tatyana Terentyeva addressed the Polytechnic representatives: Rosatom is a global participant in the world energy market. We have big common tasks – both the formation of fourth-generation nuclear energy, increasing the share of nuclear energy in Russia to 25 percent, and the preparation of the future nuclear elite for our international partners. So the program of our further strategic cooperation will be expanded.

    After welcoming remarks, Tatyana Anatolyevna presented awards to the Polytechnic University teachers and staff. For significant personal contribution to the development of international scientific and educational cooperation and training of personnel for the nuclear industry, the Director of the Higher School of Nuclear and Thermal Energy of the Institute of Power Engineering Alexander Kalyutik was awarded the 2nd degree “Academician I. V. Kurchatov” badge of distinction.

    Honorary certificates of the Rosatom State Corporation were awarded to: Vice-Rector for International Activities Dmitry Arsenyev, Director of the Higher School of Power Engineering of the Institute of Power Engineering Alena Aleshina, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Nuclear and Thermal Energy of the Institute of Power Engineering Irina Paramonova and Head of the International Education Department Evgeniya Satalkina.

    The following received gratitude from the Director General of Rosatom: Associate Professor of the Higher School of Nuclear and Thermal Energy of the Institute of Power Engineering Irina Anikin, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Technosphere Safety of the Civil Engineering Institute Anton Byzov, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Nuclear and Thermal Energy of the Institute of Power Engineering Yaroslav Vladimirov, Leading Specialist of the Higher School of Nuclear and Thermal Energy of the Institute of Power Engineering Natalia Donmez, Professor of the Higher School of Power Engineering of the Institute of Power Engineering Alexander Zharkovsky and Leading Specialist of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies of the PIS “Digital Engineering” Maxim Konyushin.

    Having congratulated his colleagues on their well-deserved awards, Vitaly Sergeev proposed discussing further cooperation between the university and the state corporation, handing over the floor to vice-rectors Alexey Borovkov and Dmitry Arsenyev, as well as institute directors Anatoly Popovich and Viktor Barskov.

    Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation of SPbPU, Head of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” Alexey Borovkov presented the results of cooperation with the State Corporation Rosatom. He noted the scale of cooperation, covering about 20 years, and highlighted the key achievements, events and developments implemented jointly with the corporation’s enterprises and organizations.

    The Rosatom State Corporation is a strategic partner of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”. It is important to emphasize that out of 22 high-tech partner companies of the school, seven Rosatom divisions supported the creation and development of the SPbPU Advanced Engineering School program with letters of guarantee for co-financing at the start of the federal project, – noted Alexey Borovkov.

    Alexey Ivanovich also spoke about systemic interaction with Rosatom divisions. Joint projects with the corporation’s organizations and enterprises are aimed at solving urgent engineering problems of the nuclear industry and industry of Russia, training a new generation of engineers with world-class competencies, as well as developing scientific, technological and educational infrastructure.

    Every year, the structural divisions of the SPbPU Ecosystem of Technological Development carry out dozens of orders for Rosatom enterprises, including: Centrotech-Engineering, TVEL, TsKBM, NIKIET, NIIgrafit, PO Mayak, Prepreg-SKM, ITER-Center, Proryv, RFNC-VNIIEF, OKBM Afrikantov, etc. The total cost of the completed research and development work exceeds 660 million rubles.

    The speaker noted that training engineering personnel in the interests of Rosatom is one of the key areas of activity of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”. As part of cooperation with the state corporation, the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU implements educational programs aimed at developing students’ competencies that meet the modern challenges of the nuclear industry. Among the master’s programs created in the interests of the enterprises of the leading nuclear industry are “Digital Engineering in Nuclear and Fusion Energy” (program partners: JSC Atomstroyexport (management company of the engineering division of the State Corporation Rosatom), JSC NIKIET (an enterprise of the State Corporation Rosatom), A.F. Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences), “Digital Engineering of the Main Technological Equipment of Hydrogen Technologies and New-Generation Energy Systems” (program partner: JSC TsKBM, part of the mechanical engineering division of Rosatom), “System Digital Engineering in Nuclear Engineering” (program partner: TVEL Fuel Company of the State Corporation Rosatom).

    For students and engineers of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”, a scientific and technological educational infrastructure is being actively created together with industrial partners of the nuclear industry: the “TVEL – SPbPU” space, the engineering center for the design of pumping equipment “TsKBM – Polytech”, the laboratories of “Polymer Composite Materials” (Composite Division of Rosatom) and complex developments of the main equipment of chemical-technological and energy systems of the new generation – in cooperation with JSC “TsKBM”. These initiatives allow students and young professionals to work on modern equipment, participate in real projects and research, and develop the skills necessary for successful work in high-tech industries.

    Vice-Rector for International Affairs Dmitry Arsenyev focused on the issues of training personnel for the energy sector of foreign countries. Polytechnic has been teaching foreign students for over 60 years. Currently, 5,000 people from 107 countries are studying in the main educational programs. Dmitry Germanovich noted that 54 educational programs relate to the profile of Rosatom, including 10 in English.

    “We started cooperating with Rosatom to train personnel for foreign countries in 2013,” said Dmitry Arsenyev. “The largest project is the graduation of specialists for the Turkish nuclear power plant Akkuyu Nuclear. From 2015 to 2023, we trained 96 people, including 72 masters. We actively participate in the state corporation’s programs for teaching the Russian language.”

    Dmitry Arsenyev noted the interesting train-the-trainers supplementary education program, which has already been completed by 63 people, mentioned winter and summer schools and presented the experience of the Polytechnic University as a coordinator Russian-African Network University.

    Dmitry Germanovich proposed to continue developing the train-the-trainers program, to intensify the targeted admission of foreign students to study at SPbPU through the State Corporation Rosatom, to create a representative office of SPbPU on the territory of ObninskTech to develop network interaction, to develop international educational programs for African countries taking into account the needs of Rosatom and to involve RAFU in their promotion.

    Director of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport Anatoly Popovich structured his report in such a way as to draw attention to the target setting for technological leadership.

    “When we talk about technological leadership, we must not forget that these are technologies of the future,” he emphasized. “We have chosen additive technologies. The Polytechnic University has created an end-to-end cycle – from obtaining powders to quality control of products. The Polytechnic University was the first of Russia’s technical universities to switch to low-tonnage, science-intensive production of complex objects.”

    Anatoly Anatolyevich named the main achievements of IMMiT in the field of additive technologies, presented the results of the implementation of technologies in combination with equipment, and spoke about what engineers manufacture according to orders from enterprises, including Rosatom. For example, in 2020, Polytechnic University won a mega-grant from Rosatom State Corporation to create new materials and products based on shape memory alloys with a controlled structure and piezoelectric ceramics using additive 4D technologies for the state corporation.

    The director of the Institute, Viktor Barskov, spoke about the interaction of the Institute of Power Engineering, the State Corporation Rosatom and the Rosenergoatom Concern. He listed the specialists and areas in which the Polytechnic prepares for the thermal and electric power industry, covering almost all the needs of the industry. At the same time, Viktor Valentinovich noted that there is a need to change the approach to the existing education model so that Rostec is properly represented in SPbPU.

    “For the modern education model, when we talk about engineers, designers, constructors, a special approach is needed. The labor market is overheated, if the enterprise wants to receive highly qualified personnel ready to work without additional retraining and investments, it is necessary to change the model of interaction with universities and students,” says Viktor Valentinovich. “We have a basic department of the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant “Nuclear Energy”, it operates according to the old scheme: students do practical training at the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant, and the company’s specialists give lectures at the university. However, now students are very demanding, it is necessary to have a close connection with the enterprise, so that familiarization with production begins not with practical training in the third year, but directly from school, so that already interested schoolchildren enter the Polytechnic. In addition to practical training and lectures, students from the first year must study in specialized classrooms, engage in creativity in coworkings, use the company’s software, that is, absorb information about it in the process of learning and student life. It is necessary to restart and reformat the basic department of “Nuclear Energy” so that work with students is carried out more intensively.”

    Viktor Barskov also proposed expanding scholarship programs.

    The speech was concluded by the head of the Rosatom student community at SPbPU, a 5th-year student majoring in Nuclear Reactors and Materials, Victoria Chernova. She said that their cell has 45 activists who work with schoolchildren and applicants, participate in fairs for first-year students and youth career forums, strategy sessions, and visit Rosatom enterprises. In 2025, they plan to participate in events dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the nuclear industry.

    In the TVN building of the Higher School of Nuclear and Thermal Energy, Rosatom representatives visited the branded information space of Rosenergoatom Concern (LNPP) and the software and hardware complex “Virtual Power Unit of the NPP”, which will be launched into the educational process in September. The simulator was developed by Atomenergoproekt, it can be used to simulate various operating modes of the power unit, including emergency ones, and to perform calculations for scientific research.

    The guests got acquainted with the capabilities of some advanced spaces of the SPbPU PISh “Digital Engineering”. Tatyana Terentyeva talked to students who are working on projects in the interests of the Fuel Division inscientific and technological educational space “TVEL – SPbPU”.

    In addition, Tatyana Anatolyevna visited laboratory for integrated development of basic equipment for chemical-technological and energy systems new generation, the opening of which took place on February 25, 2025 with the participation of representatives of JSC TsKBM.

    The creation of advanced scientific and technological platforms in cooperation with Rosatom enterprises is an important step in training personnel for the nuclear industry. We see how students and young specialists are actively involved in solving complex problems, which allows them not only to gain knowledge, but also to immediately apply it in practice, – emphasized Tatyana Terentyeva.

    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: UKAEA and Eni partner to develop tritium fuel cycle facility

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UKAEA and Eni partner to develop tritium fuel cycle facility

    Eni and UKAEA launch a research and technological development collaboration for innovative solutions in the field of fusion energy.

    Image Credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), the UK’s national organisation responsible for the research and delivery of sustainable fusion energy, and Eni, have entered into a collaboration agreement to jointly conduct research and development activities in the field of fusion energy. The collaboration primary starts with the construction of the world’s largest and most advanced tritium fuel cycle facility, a vital fuel for future fusion power stations. The “UKAEA-Eni H3AT (pronounced ‘heat’) Tritium Loop Facility”, located at Culham Campus will be complete in 2028.

    Image credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

    Tritium recovery and re-use will play a fundamental role in the supply and generation of the fuel in future fusion power plants and will be crucial in making the technology increasingly efficient.

    Fusion is a form of energy whereby the power of the Sun is replicated on Earth. The fusion process sees two hydrogen isotopes fuse together under intense heat and pressure to form a helium atom, releasing large amounts of emissions-free energy through a safe, cleaner and virtually inexhaustible process.

    Fusion energy could be transformational to contribute to energy security and decarbonisation.

    The “UKAEA-Eni H3AT Tritium Loop Facility” is designed to serve as a world-class facility providing industry and academia the opportunity to study how to process, store and recycle tritium.

    UKAEA and Eni will collaborate to develop advanced technological solutions in fusion energy and related technologies, including skills transfer initiatives. 

    Eni will contribute to the H3AT project with its expertise in managing and developing large-scale projects, helping to de-risk its roadmap. This partnership combines UKAEA’s extensive expertise in fusion research and development with Eni’s established industrial-scale capabilities in plant engineering, commissioning, and operations.

    UK Climate Minister, Kerry McCarthy, said:

    We are proud to be at the forefront of global innovation in clean energy fusion technologies, and this collaboration with Eni marks a significant step towards unlocking the potential of fusion energy, supporting our missions for economic growth, clean power and energy independence.

    The UKAEA-Eni H3AT Tritium Loop Facility will not only position the UK as a leader in the development of fusion fuel technologies but also accelerate progress towards a future of safe, sustainable, and abundant clean energy.

    Professor Sir Ian Chapman, CEO of UKAEA, said:

    We are delighted to be working with Eni who have shown great commitment to fusion. We believe that fusion energy can contribute to a net zero future, including going beyond the decarbonisation of electricity.

    The H3AT demonstration plant will set a new benchmark as the largest and most advanced tritium fuel cycle facility in the world, paving the way for innovative offerings in fusion fuel and demonstrating the UK’s leadership in this crucial area of research and development.

    Claudio Descalzi, Eni CEO said:

    Fusion energy is meant to revolutionise the global energy transition path, accelerating the decarbonisation of our economic and industrial systems, helping to spread access to energy, and reducing energy dependency ties within a more equitable transition framework. Eni is strongly committed to various areas of research and development of this complex technology, in which it has always firmly believed. Today with our UK partners we are laying the foundations for further progress towards the goal of fusion which—if we consider its enormous scope of technological innovation—is increasingly concrete and not so far off in time. To continue this virtuous development, international system-level technological partnerships like this one are indispensable.

    Eni supports a socially fair energy transition with the aim of promoting efficient and progressively more sustainable access to energy resources. Eni places innovation at the centre of its strategic vision and it has transformed the businesses by investing significantly in research, development, and the implementation of technologies to progressively decarbonising its energy mix and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. 

    UKAEA’s mission is to lead the delivery of sustainable fusion energy and maximise the scientific and economic benefit. It aims to solve the challenges of this new energy source, from design through to decommissioning with world-leading science and engineering. UKAEA enables partners to design, deliver, and operate commercial fusion power plants around the globe and fosters the creation of clusters that accelerate innovation and help drive economic growth.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: More of China’s homemade aeroengines set for maiden flights in 2025

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China is poised to achieve breakthroughs in advanced aeroengine development this year, with three domestically-developed engines set to either secure certification or complete maiden flights, a senior aerospace engine designer has said.
    Shan Xiaoming, chief designer at a research and development institute of Aero Engine Corporation of China, said that these developments align with the national goal of achieving high-level technological self-reliance and pioneering cutting-edge innovations, according to a video interview conducted by China Media Group on Thursday.
    Regarding civil turboshaft engines, two models, the AES100 and the AES20, have been developed for helicopters. The AES100 is expected to obtain its production certificate (PC) in 2025, which will pave the way for mass production and deployment in fields including agricultural forestry, environmental monitoring and emergency services.
    Its smaller counterpart, the AES20 engine, is tailored for light helicopters and scheduled to conduct its inaugural flight this year.
    “The general aviation propulsion sector will continue to deliver exciting developments in 2025,” Shan said.
    Concerning heavy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the AEP100 engine, which boasts world-class performance in terms of 3-10 tonne UAVs, will also conduct its first flight in 2025.
    “Our AEP100 engine will be fitted to UAVs weighing 10.8 tonnes — the world’s largest of its kind for unmanned logistics,” Shan said.
    Aeroengines are often dubbed the “heart of aircraft.”
    “Technological innovation remains the driving force for aviation propulsion evolution,” Shan emphasized.
    Beyond conventional fuel systems, she revealed that China is also conducting research and development regarding hybrid-electric, full-electric and hydrogen-powered propulsion technologies.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2025 Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) Rates for Renewable Energy Officially Announced

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has finalized the “R.O.C. 2025 Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) and Calculation Formulas”, confirming that the official rates remain unchanged from the initial draft, and continues to offer incentives for diverse renewable installations through tariff levels and various subsidies and supporting mechanisms to encourage further expansions. Compared to 2024, the FIT rate for rooftop solar PV installations ranging from 1kW to under 10kW remains the same as the second phase of 2024, while other categories have undergone slight reductions. Furthermore, a new capacity range of 1-100kW has been added for small hydropower to reflect cost differences based on scale. Meanwhile, all existing incentives and supporting mechanisms remain unchanged.

    The key points of the officially announced 2025 Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) Rates for Renewable Energy (see details in the attachment) are as follows (same as draft)：
    1. Solar PV: Two-phase rates are adopted. The FIT rate for the first phase (first half of the year) ranges from NT$ 3.5337 to NT$ 5.7055 per kWh, while the second phase (second half of the year) ranges from NT$ 3.5037 to NT$ 5.6279 per kWh.

    2. Wind Power: Rates remain unchanged. The FIT rate for onshore wind farms with capacities under 30kW is NT$ 7.4110 per kWh, while onshore wind farms with capacities of 30kW and above are at NT$ 2.1286 per kWh. Offshore wind power maintains a FIT rate of NT$ 4.5085 per kWh.

    3. Biomass Energy: Rates remain unchanged. The FIT rate for biogas (with anaerobic digestion facilities) is NT$ 7.0192 per kWh. The rate for the solid biofuels and domestic agricultural residues resources is NT$ 5.1407 per kWh, and NT$ 2.8066 per kWH for other biomass categories.

    4. Waste to Energy: The FIT rates for energy generated from general and general industrial wastes category remain unchanged at NT$ 3.9482 per kWh.

    5. Small Hydropower: The FIT rates for 1-100kW capacity category is NT$ 4.9548 per kWh. The rates for other capacity ranges (100kW-500kW, 500kW-2MW, and 2MW-20MW) remain unchanged at NT$ 4.8936 per kWh, NT$ 4.2285 per kWh, and NT$ 2.8599 per kWh respectively.

    6. Geothermal Power: The FIT rates remain unchanged. Facilities with capacities under 2MW will have a FIT rate of NT$ 5.9459 per kWh, while those above 2MW will have a FIT rate of NT$ 5.1956 per kWh.

    7. Marine Energy: The FIT rate remains at NT$ 7.3200 per kWh, the same as in 2024.

    During the public consultation period, stakeholders expressed concerns over solar FIT reductions, refined capacity ranges for small hydropower, higher FIT rates, and more detailed categories for marine energy and creating floating offshore wind FIT category. However, after careful review based on the principles of FIT, the committee decided to uphold the original proposal while committing to ongoing evaluations for potential adjustments.

    The MOEA emphasized that the 2025 FIT review process followed a fair, transparent, and rigorous procedure to ensure that the tariffs aligned with Taiwan’s development environment., The government remains committed to continuously evaluating FIT-related policies to build a solid foundation for Taiwan’s renewable energy development.

    Spokesperson for Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs: Deputy Director-General, Chih-Wei Wu
    Phone: 02-2775-7750
    Mobile: 0922-339-410
    Email: cwwu@moeaea.gov.tw

    Business Contact (Solar PV, Biomass Energy, Waste to Energy, Small Hydropower): Deputy Director, Shih-Wei Liao
    Phone: 02-2775-7620
    Mobile: 0920-091-081
    Email: swliau@moeaea.gov.tw

    Business Contact (Wind Power, Marine Energy): Director, Chung-Hsien Chen
    Phone: 02-2775-7770
    Mobile: 0919-998-339
    Email: ctchen2@moeaea.gov.tw

    Business Contact (Geothermal Power): Director, Hsiu-Fen Tsai
    Phone: 02-2775-7730
    Mobile: 0905-506-258
    Email: hftsai@moeaea.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at butter or vegetable oils and mortality, as published in JAMA Internal Medicine

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine looking at butter consumption, plant-based oil consumption, and all-cause, cancer-related and cardiovascular disease-related mortality.

    Prof Sarah Berry, Professor of Nutritional Sciences, King’s College London, said:

    “The study shows that high butter consumption is linked to increased cancer and total mortality, whereas plant-based oils are linked to a lower risk of overall mortality and death due to cardiovascular disease and cancer.

    “This research is very timely.  Social media is currently awash with influencers promoting butter as a health food and claiming that seed oils are deadly.  This large-scale, long-term study finds the reverse.  The authors produce further evidence that seed oil consumption is linked to improved health and that butter – delicious as it is – should only be consumed once in a while.

    “In a sane world, this study would give the butter bros and anti-seed oil brigade pause for thought, but I’m confident that their brand of nutri-nonsense will continue unabated.”

    Dr Louise Flanagan, Head of Research for the Stroke Association, said: 

    “Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the UK and a leading cause of adult disability – but, fortunately, nine out of 10 strokes can be prevented.  High blood pressure is the cause of around half of all strokes.

    “This study covered a wider range of plant oils than previous research to find that greater consumption of rapeseed oil, soybean oil or olive oil is associated with an overall lower risk of death.  It is positive to see other plant oils being considered in this way as olive oil has been a focus of much research in the past.

    “The suggestion to switch from butter to plant oils is achievable for many people.  However, it was only olive oil that was associated with a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease, including stroke.  Olive oil is typically more expensive than other oils like rapeseed which means that its potential health benefits could be out of financial reach for some.

    “The study didn’t consider what eating both butter and plant oils means in terms of health risks, which is likely to be what many people naturally do.  This is potentially something which could be considered in future studies.

    “The Stroke Association encourages people to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, not smoke and monitor alcohol intake, which can help to maintain healthy blood pressure.  Anyone with concerns should speak to their GP.”

    Prof Parveen Yaqoob, professor of nutritional science at the University of Reading, said:

    “The link between diets high in saturated fat, particularly animal-based fat such as butter and lard, and higher mortality has been argued for decades.  I have seen American adverts from the 1960s extolling the virtues of American housewives “polyunsaturating” their husbands when they come home from work.  This is a fun historical reminder of the link between the food industry and dietary health messages, as well as showing how much woman have had to fight for social progress.

    “This latest research provides strong additional data to support the ‘healthier fats’ theory.  The research followed a large cohort of health workers in America over many years.  The use of food frequency questionnaires means that we are relying on the participants to remember what they have eaten and how much, which we know can be an unreliable indicator of actual dietary patterns.

    “The scientists for this study highlight that not all vegetable oils are equal.  Although butter was being replaced by corn oil and sunflower oil, which are polyunsaturated, in the 1960s and 70s, the oils they are talking about in the research – olive, canola and soybean – are mainly monounsaturated.  The researchers suggests that these are more beneficial than the polyunsaturated fats, and refer to the Mediterranean diet, which is higher in monounsaturated fats such as olive oil, for that reason.  While many Western diets shifted away from saturated fat to polyunsaturated fat in the 1970s, the oils that we consume more often now contain more monounsaturates, which seem to be more beneficial.  Given that there are some plant-based oils that are high in saturates – such as palm oil and coconut oil – it is important to consider them separately.

    “Recent dietary fads have suggested a re-examination of evidence on dietary fat.  People who are confused about these conflicting messages about their diet should focus on broader, well-established advice, which can be summarised as: eat more fresh vegetables.”

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

    “This important study shows that people who chose to eat butter don’t live as long as those who chose to eat vegetable oils.  It is a well conducted prospective study of 221,054 health professionals who were in their fifties when enrolled and followed up for 33 years.  Dietary intakes were assessed every 4 years.  The study reports that those who had the highest intake of butter were 15% more likely to die prematurely (from both cardiovascular disease and cancer).  In comparison the opposite was true (a 16 % reduction in relative risk of all-cause mortality), for participants who had the highest intake of vegetable oil.  The same relationship was seen for olive oil, soybean oil and canola oil (rapeseed oil).

    “The strength of the study is the long period of follow-up, repeated measures of dietary intake and adjustment in the statistical analysis for other factors such as smoking habit and obesity.  The findings do not apply to sunflower, palm or coconut oils which were not consumed to any significant extent in this study.  The limitations are that this an observational study not a randomised controlled trial.  Furthermore, the findings with regard to health professionals may differ from the general population because they are better informed about healthy lifestyle choices.

    “Butter is high in saturated fat, contains some trans fatty acids but is very low in polyunsaturated fats.  Whereas unhydrogenated soybean, canola and olive oils are low in saturated fatty acids but high in unsaturated fats.  Replacement of butter with these vegetable oils is well documented to lower blood cholesterol, particularly that associated with low density lipoprotein (LDL) by about 10%.  This change in LDL cholesterol would be predicted to reduce the relative risk of death by about 3% which is much less than what was observed in this study.  It remains possible that a higher intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially linoleic acid) from the vegetable oil may have played a role in reducing risk by a variety of mechanisms.  An alternative explanation may be that health professionals who are sensible follow prevailing healthy eating and lifestyle advice compared to those who don’t.

    “The take home message is that it is healthier to choose unsaturated vegetable oils rather than butter.  This is particularly relevant as there has been much negative publicity about vegetable oils on social media, which are based on unfounded claims of potential harmful effects, rather than deaths as described in the present study.”

    Prof George Davey Smith, FRS FMedSci, Professor of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Bristol, said:

    “Yet again these studies show that the exposure that is accompanied by large differences in other adverse health exposures – e.g. more than double the rate of cigarette smoking in the highest quartile vs lowest quartile of butter consumption is associated with worse health outcomes.  That these differences cannot be taken into account by the statistical models the authors use is well known; measurement error and unmeasured factors ensure this.  It is now more than 30 years since these authors published two high profile papers back to back in the New England Journal of Medicine claiming that vitamin E supplement use would reduce heart disease risk by 40%.  The claims were incorrect, but many people believed them – the story was the headline news in the New York Times – and started taking vitamin E supplements.  However randomised trials later showed this was nonsense: there was no benefit.  This is documented in the first few minutes of this recent talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IgpTT5ZXXU&t=2s  As in the conclusion of my blog1 on the same authors’ “dark chocolate” paper, the interesting question this paper raises is “why do supposedly legitimate journals keep publishing papers like this?”.”

    1 https://ieureka.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/2024/12/04/dark-chocolate-diabetes/

    * ‘Butter and Plant-Based Oils Intake and Mortality’ by Yu Zhang et al. will be published in JAMA Internal Medicine at 21:00 UK time on Thursday 6 March 2025, which is when the embargo will lift.

    DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2025.0205

    Declared interests

    Prof Sarah Berry: “Sarah has received funding from the Almond Board of California, Malaysian Palm Oil Board and ZOE (Chief scientist at ZOE Ltd, options and consultancy at ZOE Ltd.).”

    Dr Louise Flanagan: “None.”

    Prof Parveen Yaqoob: “Professor Parveen Yaqoob is Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) of the University of Reading, and professor of nutritional science in the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, which has funding from public bodies, charities and businesses to conduct independent scientific research on food and nutrition.

    The Department has done work on dietary fat, including research co-authored by Parveen as part of the DIVAS project: https://research.reading.ac.uk/ifnh/cases/milk-dairy-consumption-risk-cardiovascular-diseases-cause-mortality/  Mostly government or UKRI funded, with industry partners.  The papers listed from that project list grant numbers.

    Work on reducing saturated fat in dairy was a REF case study, which includes grant numbers from BBSRC and MRC, and had industry partners throughout, which is one of the ways in which the research was considered to have impact.

    https://results2021.ref.ac.uk/impact/eefa0a3d-4ba8-4419-8c28-836e06b41eed?page=1.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Prof George Davey Smith: “No COIs.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Greece’s potential contribution to the EU green hydrogen strategy – E-000870/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000870/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

    Green hydrogen is a key pillar of Europe’s strategy for achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The target is for the EU to produce 10 million tonnes a year by 2030.

    With its strong potential in the renewable energy sector Greece is well placed to play a central role in Europe’s green hydrogen market. However, there have been delays in the development of a comprehensive national hydrogen strategy. Although a committee tasked with drawing up a national strategy was set up in 2019, the regulatory framework is still lacking and this is holding up critical investments. By actively participating in the green transition with hydrogen, Greece can become more self-sufficient in terms of energy, create new jobs and play a part in achieving climate targets.

    Although ambitious projects, such as the production of hydrogen for export to Germany, have been announced, the absence of a clear legislative framework and funding mechanisms is preventing them from materialising.

    In view of these delays, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.In its opinion, what progress has Greece made in developing green hydrogen compared to other European countries?
    • 2.What specific measures is it planning in order to expedite the adoption of green hydrogen in Greece, particularly given the delays in the regulatory framework?
    • 3.Are there any European funding instruments available that could help Greece develop the necessary infrastructure and strengthen the hydrogen supply chain, turning the country into an energy hub between Europe and the Middle East?

    Submitted: 27.2.2025

    Last updated: 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Electric Hydrogen partners with Texas-based Titan to deliver modularized manufacturing for electrolyzer plants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLUMBUS, Texas, March 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Electric Hydrogen, global manufacturer of high-power electrolyzer plants, announced its strategic partnership with Titan, a Texas-based leader in process equipment manufacturing, for the fabrication and assembly of its 100 megawatt (MW) electrolyzer plant product. This partnership underscores Electric Hydrogen’s commitment to support U.S. industrial competitiveness and development of a skilled, local workforce in the hydrogen industry.

    At Titan’s facility in Columbus, Texas, fabrication and assembly of Electric Hydrogen’s first commercial 100MW Plant—a solution that enables up to 60% lower total installed costs for electrolytic hydrogen—is complete. The partnership with Titan illustrates how growth in the hydrogen industry creates opportunities for expansion of energy businesses and jobs in Texas. To build Electric Hydrogen’s electrolyzer process skids, Titan deployed the same expertise and workers that it would have deployed to build traditional oil and gas infrastructure. This 100MW Plant project, which will support more than 300 good-paying jobs in the State, signals the beginning of a growing hydrogen industry in Texas.

    “By combining Electric Hydrogen’s proprietary advanced technology with Titan’s world-class process equipment fabrication expertise and facilities, we are able to deliver a superior electrolyzer solution at half the cost of others in the market,” said Raffi Garabedian, Electric Hydrogen’s CEO and Co-founder.

    To ensure reliable and rapid deployment, Electric Hydrogen’s fully-integrated 100MW Plant is pre-assembled and pre-tested before shipment to the customer site. This unique fabrication model leverages Titan’s excellence in high-volume chemical equipment production and rigorous quality practices.

    “Our team’s deep expertise and commitment to scalability through standardized processes are closely aligned with Electric Hydrogen’s modular product offering and we are thrilled to be bringing the 100MW Plant to customers to grow America’s hydrogen economy,” said Titan CEO Chris Werner.

    To learn more about Electric Hydrogen’s 100MW Plant, visit https://eh2.com/.

    About Electric Hydrogen
    Electric Hydrogen manufactures, delivers and commissions the world’s most powerful electrolyzers to make clean hydrogen projects economically viable today. The company’s complete 100 megawatt (MW) Plant includes all system components required to turn water and electricity into the lowest cost clean hydrogen. Electric Hydrogen has a team of more than 300 people in the United States and Europe. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Devens, Massachusetts. To learn more about how critical industries leverage Electric Hydrogen’s advanced proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology, visit https://eh2.com/.

    Contact
    V2 Communications for Electric Hydrogen
    electrichydrogen@v2comms.com

    About Titan
    Titan Production Equipment (“Titan”) is a market leader in the design, engineering and manufacturing of Specialty Engineer-to-Order complex Separation and Processing & Treating equipment used in traditional oil & gas applications, as well as manufacturing a variety of clean energy products, including green hydrogen, sulfur recovery and carbon capture technologies. Titan Production Equipment has 365,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Columbus, Texas and has grown from an initial 42 employees in 2018 to a peak of 350 people in 2024. Titan is owned by a private equity fund controlled and managed by New York private equity firm Castle Harlan, Inc. (“Castle Harlan”). For more information about Titan, visit www.titanpeq.com.

    Contact
    info@titanpeq.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c8d6ae2-42c9-4a19-acc4-6e6aa457dcc7

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ea7f82a-8ceb-4f77-9a49-f9d077f6d031

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/712a442b-4682-4cd3-9199-97d5eb843279

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Questor Announces Sale of Clean Combustion Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, March 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questor Technology Inc. (“Questor”, the “Company”), (TSX Venture Exchange: QST) announced today a $0.9 million purchase order to supply a clean combustion solution to manage a variety of railcar vapours at a Caltrax Inc. full-service railcar repair and maintenance facility in Calgary.

    Questor’s partnership with Caltrax highlights the versatility of Questor’s clean combustion units, used in this application to safely and cleanly combust hydrocarbon vapours in urban settings, such as Calgary. Questor’s ISO 14034-certified clean combustion units are engineered to safely manage rail car vapours through a variety of waste gas compositions, eliminating methane and other harmful pollutants at a 99.99% combustion efficiency. These units meet and exceed the most stringent global emissions standards.

    Designed with innovation and efficiency at the forefront, the units deliver significant cost savings to clients in capital, fuel, and operations. Designed, engineered, and manufactured in Canada, Questor’s clean combustion units are specifically developed to meet evolving global emission standards, addressing the unique challenges of sour gas and other complex pollutants.

    ABOUT QUESTOR TECHNOLOGY INC.

    Questor Technology Inc., incorporated in Canada under the Business Companies Act (Alberta) is an environmental emissions reduction technology company founded in 1994, with global operations. The Company is focused on clean air technologies that safely and cost effectively improve air quality, support energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emission reductions. The Company designs, manufactures and services high efficiency clean combustion systems that destroy harmful pollutants, including Methane, Hydrogen Sulfide gas, Volatile Organic Hydrocarbons, Hazardous Air Pollutants and BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene) gases within waste gas streams at 99.99 percent efficiency per its ISO 14034 Certification. This enables its clients to meet emission regulations, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, address community concerns and improve safety at industrial sites.

    The Company also has proprietary heat to power generation technology and is currently targeting new markets including landfill biogas, syngas, waste engine exhaust, geothermal and solar, cement plant waste heat in addition to a wide variety of oil and gas projects. The combination of Questor’s clean combustion and power generation technologies can help clients achieve net zero emission targets for minimal cost. The Company is also doing research and development on data solutions to deliver an integrated system that amalgamates all the emission detection data available to demonstrate a clear picture of the site’s emission profile.

    The Company’s common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “QST”. The address of the Company’s corporate and registered office is 2240, 140 – 4 Avenue S.W. Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2P 3N3.

    QUESTOR TRADES ON THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE UNDER THE SYMBOL ‘QST’

    Investor Relations Contact

    Aly Sumar – Chief Financial Officer

    investor@questortech.com 

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

    This document is not intended for dissemination or distribution in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Portugal financing from EIB Group surpasses €2 billion in 2024 with record investment in green financing and sustainable energy

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB Group affirms strong commitment to Portugal with €2.1 billion in financing last year.
    • Climate and environmental sustainability financing reached 63 % of total amount consolidating the EIB as the Climate Bank in Portugal.
    • Record investment of more than €1.1 billion in sustainable energy and natural resources, nearly double last year’s financing.
    • Key priorities for 2025 include financing the Porto-Lisbon high-speed rail line and reinforce financing for social infrastructures in the country.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, which comprises the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF), reaffirmed its strong commitment to Portugal in 2024, with new financing of €2.1 billion to foster the country’s sustainable economic development. This financing unlocked a total of around €4.9 billion in investments, equivalent to a 1.7 % of the country’s GDP.

    A significant part of this support was directed at Portuguese projects promoting climate action and environmental protection, as well as investments in health and transport infrastructure. A record of more than €1.1 billion went to clean energy, marking an unprecedented boost for the green transition.

    “Cooperation with the Portuguese authorities is excellent. We have invested more than €2 billion in Portugal in 2024, and we have launched emblematic projects such as the Lisbon Oriental Hospital and the high-speed train between Lisbon and Porto. We will continue to be a very important investment partner for the country to the benefit of Portuguese businesses and citizens”, said EIB Group President Nadia Calviño.

    In 2024, EIB Group financing, supported around 10,000 Portuguese companies and sustained almost 230,000 jobs.

    Record financing in climate action and energy transition in Portugal

    Portuguese projects advancing climate action and environmental sustainability received a record €1.3 billion in EIB Group financing last year, driven by significant investments in sustainable energy. This amount accounts for 63 % of its total investment in Portugal, thus exceeding the 50 % target for the Group in place for 2025.

    Financing in sustainable energy and natural resources surpassed €1.1 billion, a record for the country that nearly doubled last year’s investment. Among the biggest operations: two loans to Portuguese electricity supplier EDP to expand renewable energy generation, wind and solar, and to modernize electricity distribution networks, and two loans to finance Galp Energia for the construction of an advanced biofuels plant and a renewable hydrogen unit in the coastal area of Sines.

    Other relevant projects contributing to the green financing were the EIB loan signed with ANA to support low-carbon initiatives at nine airports in Portugal, and the loan signed with BPI to finance small and medium-sized enterprises, mid-caps, and public sector entities investing in climate action projects.

    Strengthening country’s economic cohesion, innovation and social infrastructure

    Beyond green investments, the EIB last year allocated €1.5 billion to initiatives aimed at enhancing Portugal’s economic and social cohesion.

    It signed a €107 million loan to finance the construction of Hospital de Lisboa Oriental. The new facilities will replace six old hospitals, spread over more than 100 buildings in the Lisbon centre. This will guarantee access to modern health services and improve the distribution of hospital beds around the city.

    Supporting innovation was another priority of the EIB Group in Portugal last year. Special mention deserves the €90 million investment pledged by the EIF into three venture capital funds to accelerate the growth of start-ups in the deep-tech and cybersecurity sectors.

    Looking ahead: reinforce support for social infrastructures and finance Porto-Lisbon high-speed rail line

    Unlocking investment in social infrastructures that address the most pressing needs of European citizens, will continue being a priority for the EIB Group in Portugal in 2025, together with the financing of the first phase of the high-speed railway line between Porto and Lisbon, reinforcing commitment to sustainable transport and regional cohesion.

    Video EIB Group in Portugal in 2024 https://youtu.be/szAUKoTJoP8

    Background information  

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China achieves world’s first application of hydrogen energy technology in Antarctica

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s independently developed hydrogen fuel cell has successfully generated electricity at the country’s Qinling Station in Antarctica, marking the first ever application of hydrogen energy technology in the polar region, China Science Daily reported on Wednesday.
    The fuel cell, developed by a hydrogen energy technology enterprise under the State Power Investment Corporation, serves as a core component of the station’s microgrid system. The system is equipped with a hydrogen storage tank that boasts a maximum capacity of 50 cubic meters. When operating independently, the fuel cell can deliver continuous power to the station for up to 24 days, with a maximum output of 30 kilowatts.
    Designed for modular scalability, the fuel cell system covers a power range from 50 kilowatts to tens of megawatts. It can achieve a power generation efficiency of 50 percent and a combined heat and power efficiency of over 90 percent, boasting a design lifespan of 40,000 hours.
    Compared to traditional fossil fuel-based power generation, this hydrogen fuel cell saves approximately 400 grams of standard coal and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by about 1 kilogram for every kilowatt-hour of electricity produced.
    During periods of favorable wind and solar conditions, excess electricity generated by the wind and solar power systems is used to produce hydrogen, which is stored for later use. When wind and solar power generation is insufficient, the stored hydrogen is converted back into electricity and heat through the fuel cell, ensuring a stable and sustainable energy supply.
    The successful application in Antarctica validates the reliability of hydrogen fuel cell technology in extreme low-temperature environments, addressing a critical gap in the use of hydrogen energy in polar energy systems. It also establishes a benchmark for the construction of energy systems and microgrids in other harsh, low-temperature environments.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Charting a Path to a Future Powered by Carbon-Free Energy Technologies Gyeongju, Republic of Korea | 05 March 2025 APEC Energy Working Group APEC economies addressed the urgent need for a transformative approach to clean electricity generation.

    Source: APEC – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation

    In response to escalating energy demands and persistent reliance on fossil fuels, APEC economies addressed the urgent need for a transformative approach to clean electricity generation.

    In a policy dialogue held in Gyeongju, Korea, last week, policymakers, researchers and industry experts explored how a diversified mix of carbon-free energy technologies could mitigate environmental risks and bolster regional energy resilience.

    Carbon-free energy (CFE) technologies refer to a suite of technologies that generate electricity with zero or minimal carbon emissions. These include nuclear power, hydrogen and ammonia fuels, carbon capture and storage, and advanced energy storage systems. For Korea and other APEC economies, CFE is critical not only for reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also for ensuring a stable and dispatchable power supply amid growing electricity demand.

    “APEC’s collective energy challenges call for a unified and forward-looking strategy. By embracing a diverse range of carbon-free energy technologies, we can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and secure a reliable, resilient power supply that supports sustainable economic growth,” said Weiguo Shan, lead shepherd of the APEC Energy Working Group.

    “This dialogue underscores our commitment to developing pragmatic, data-driven policies that benefit all member economies and set a clear path for a cleaner, more secure energy future.”

    Data presented by Dr Kazutomo Irie of the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre highlighted both progress and persistent challenges in reducing carbon dioxide emission in the region. Between 2010 and 2022, APEC economies increased the share of modern renewables in final energy consumption by 75.6 percent and in power generation by 63.4 percent. Despite these gains, carbon dioxide emissions from power generation continued to rise, as carbon-emitting sources produced nearly twice as much electricity in 2022 compared to carbon-free sources, underscoring the need for a broader mix of low-carbon, dispatchable technologies.

    “While there are multiple pathways to contribute to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing clean electricity within the energy sector remains a central priority,” said Eekno Jo, Director General for Energy Policy of Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy in his opening remarks at the dialogue. “To accelerate these energy transitions, we need to continue our endeavour to deploy and scale up carbon-free energy technologies,”

    During the dialogue, participants examined the technical and economic challenges of integrating CFE technologies. Discussions centered on the lower capacity factors of wind and solar power relative to dispatchable generators and the implications for grid reliability. Experts debated financing mechanisms and policy measures necessary to scale up these technologies, stressing that a balanced energy mix is essential to meet peak demand and ensure stable supply.

    “Expanding clean electricity is essential to ensure stable and reliable power supply and to achieve carbon neutrality targets,” added Dr Sunghee Shim, Vice President of the Korea Energy Economics Institute.

    “In order to achieve this, we must go beyond simply increasing renewable energy sources by incorporating various carbon-free energy technologies. We can enhance flexibility and stability in the power supply while playing a complementary role in the overall energy mix.”

    The policy dialogue marked a significant milestone in APEC’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security. By integrating robust data analysis with targeted policy discussions, the workshop provided a clear roadmap for expanding clean, dispatchable electricity—a vital step for achieving carbon neutrality and long-term energy resilience in the region.

    For further details and media inquiries, please contact:  
    [email protected] 
    [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump Touts Alaska LNG as a Top Priority of New Administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    03.05.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) today celebrated President Donald Trump’s endorsement of the Alaska Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project as a top priority of his new administration in the President’s joint address to Congress last night.
    Sen. Sullivan has been a relentless advocate for the Alaska LNG Project as an opportunity to provide abundant, clean-burning, low-cost energy to Alaskans, promote American energy security, and deepen America’s alliances with its Indo-Pacific partners, particularly Japan and South Korea. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Sen. Sullivan has taken four trips to Japan and South Korea to promote the project, talking to numerous potential investors and the senior-most government and private sector officials in each country. More recently, he has spoken directly with President Trump on several occasions about the project and gave him the comprehensive document called, “America’s Gasline.” The senator has also had extensive conversations with nearly all of President Trump’s cabinet officials about the Alaska LNG Project, garnering their support.
    “My administration is also working on a gigantic natural gas pipeline in Alaska, among the largest in the world, where Japan, South Korea and other nations want to be our partner with investments of trillions of dollars each,” President Trump said. “There’s never been anything like that one. It will be truly spectacular. It’s all set to go. The permitting is gotten.”
    [embedded content]
    “The fact that the President of the United States was highlighting the Alaska LNG Project as one of the biggest things he wants to get done for America was huge for our state and huge for our country,” Sullivan said in an interview following the address. “It’s not going to happen overnight, but the fact that we have the President and his entire cabinet fully putting their shoulder into this was quite remarkable…Governor Dunleavy and I pitched the Trump administration on having the President mention this in his State of the Union…I hope a lot of Alaskans saw that we have been working this really hard, because we have a great opportunity—the private sector elements of this are coming together, the foreign government elements of this giant project are coming together. But when you get the President and his entire cabinet saying, we’re going to get this done, and he tells the American people that, I don’t think that’s ever happened before for Alaska…It was a big night for us, and I’m really excited.”
    The Alaska LNG Project will be capable of providing more than three billion cubic feet of low-cost, low-emission natural gas to Alaskans, Americans, and to allied nations around the world each day. It is also projected to create up to 10,000 construction and 1,000 operations jobs.
    Below is a timeline of Sen. Sullivan’s recent work on advancing the Alaska LNG Project and deepening the energy security ties between the U.S. and America’s Japanese and Korean allies.
    On February 24, 2025, Sen. Sullivan had an Alaska LNG focused meeting with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum at the Department of the Interior.
    On February 7, 2025, President Trump announced a “joint venture” on Alaska oil and gas between the United States and Japan.
    On January 8, 2025, Sen. Sullivan personally pitched President Trump on the Alaska LNG Project.
    On December 17, 2024, Sen. Sullivan focused on the Alaska LNG Project in his meeting with now-Secretary of Energy Chris Wright.
    In August of 2024, Sen. Sullivan participated in a bipartisan Senate delegation visit to Japan and South Korea, and discussed the Alaska LNG Project with numerous senior government and business leaders in both countries.
    In February 2024, Sen. Sullivan and seven of his Senate colleagues introduced a Senate resolution recognizing the importance of trilateral cooperation among the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
    On October 8, 2023, Sen. Sullivan penned an op-ed in the Anchorage Daily News urging Alaskans to unite in advancing the Alaska LNG Project as a critical solution to Alaska’s energy needs.
    In June 2023, Sen. Sullivan visited South Korea and Japan, where he met with senior government and private sector officials about the Alaska LNG Project. Similar to his October 2022 visit to Tokyo, Sen. Sullivan convened an Alaska LNG Summit of U.S. and Korean energy and policy leaders with the U.S. Embassy in Seoul. Following the visit, the U.S. Embassy in Seoul established an Alaska LNG Task Force.
    On May 18, 2023, Sen. Sullivan introduced the Indo-Pacific Strategic Energy Initiative Act, legislation to promote the financing and development of new energy infrastructure projects in the Indo-Pacific region—with a focus on natural gas—in order to end U.S. allies’ dependance on Russian natural gas in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    In May 2023, Sen. Sullivan spoke at the Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference about the Alaska LNG Project and opportunities to deliver clean-burning, low-cost gas to Alaskans and to America’s Indo-Pacific allies.
    In May 2023, Sen. Sullivan, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Rep. Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) welcomed a ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit upholding the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) approval of the Alaska LNG Project.
    On March 6, 2023, Sen. Sullivan led a letter with his Senate colleagues to U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel urging the Biden administration to publicly support the export of abundant U.S. natural gas to America’s allies in Europe and Asia, particularly Japan, which has prioritized energy security in its term leading the G7.
    On December 16, 2022, Sen. Sullivan welcomed a new national security strategy and related documents released by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida that focuses on deepening Japan and the U.S.’s national security cooperation.
    In October 2022, Sen. Sullivan visited Japan and South Korea to advocate for the Alaska LNG Project. In Tokyo, Sen. Sullivan and Ambassador Emanuel convened an Alaska LNG Summit of U.S. and Japanese energy and policy leaders. Prior to the summit, the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo established an Alaska LNG Task Force.
    In June 2022, Sen. Sullivan and Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R-Alaska) visited Japan to meet with Japanese companies, utilities, and government ministries about the Alaska LNG Project.
    In August 2021, Sens. Murkowski and Sullivan secured a provision in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act making the Alaska LNG Project eligible for a federal loan guarantee of roughly $30 billion that is indexed to inflation.
    In August 2020, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued a final, unconditional order authorizing the Alaska LNG Project to export LNG.
    In May 2020, FERC granted the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC) authorization to construct and operate the Alaska LNG Project.
    Between 2014 and 2022, the Alaska LNG Project secured all of its necessary federal permits and authorizations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Low-carbon liquid fuels of the Future Made In Australia

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    The Albanese Government is delivering $250 million to accelerate the pace of Australia’s growing domestic Low Carbon Liquid Fuels (LCLF) industry.

    This funding is part of the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund and will be provided as grants to support pre-commercial innovation, demonstration and deployment.

    Low carbon liquid fuels can be produced sustainably from waste, biomass such as agricultural feedstocks, or renewable hydrogen.

    Australia’s domestic LCLF industry will focus on supplying sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel in liquid fuel-reliant sectors, including transport (aviation, heavy vehicle, rail and maritime), mining, agriculture and construction.

    The development of low carbon fuels will drive economic growth and jobs in regional areas, including supporting diversification in agriculture, making good use of excess feedstock from crops, sugarcane and waste products such as tallow.

    CSIRO projects that a LCLF industry could contribute between AUD $6 billion to $12 billion annually in direct economic benefits, with greater gains from regional co-benefits including diversified income streams for farmers and regional communities.

    LCLFs not only help decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors of the economy but provide Australia with sovereign capability and resilience at a time of increasing international uncertainty. 

    Alongside the $250 million for low carbon liquid fuels, the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund is providing $500 million for clean energy technology manufacturing capabilities including electrolysers, batteries and wind towers.

    The Fund – a key element of the Future Made in Australia plan – will ensure Australia can maximise the economic and industrial benefits of the international move to net zero and secure Australia’s place in a changing global and strategic landscape. Funding is administered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

    The investment in a wider domestic LCLF industry builds on the momentum of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative.

    This Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative has seen the Albanese Government invest in $33.5 million across five projects to date, including LCLF production facilities in Bundaberg and Townsville, and enabling the supply of sustainable aviation fuel at Brisbane Airport.

    Funding from the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund is subject to the legislated Future Made in Australia Community Benefits Principles. The Albanese Government established these principles to ensure public investment and the private investment it attracts, has a direct and tangible benefit for local workers and businesses.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

    “The Australian Government is backing clean, green low carbon liquid fuels as an important part of our move towards net zero and long-term fuel security.

    “Australia has the know how and skills to meet the crucial task of decarbonising hard to abate sectors such as aviation, heavy transport and mining that rely on liquid fuels.

    “Investing in a Future Made in Australia means delivering the industries that will provide high end jobs, many in the regions, for future generations.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We know that industries vital to our national prosperity, like the transportation of people and goods across our vast land, are carbon intensive and hard to abate.

    “That’s why we’re investing hundreds of millions of dollars to develop – right here in Australia – the low carbon liquid fuels of the future that will reduce their environmental impact without preventing their operation or expansion.

    “We have all the ingredients in Australia to be a global clean energy superpower, and the Future Made in Australia fund will help bring that potential to reality.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Germany: INERATEC secures €70 million financing commitment for Europe’s largest e-Fuel-production plant in Frankfurt

    Source: European Investment Bank

    Ineratec

    • INERATEC agrees up to €40 million venture debt loan with the European Investment Bank and up to €30 million grant from Breakthrough Energy Catalyst to scale-up its e-Fuel production capabilities
    • Landmark investment follows EU-Catalyst Partnership initiated in 2021 and supported by the Innovation Fund through the InvestEU Programme.
    • Backing demonstrates European commitment to clean energy innovation and follows earlier Horizon 2020 support

    Sustainable e-Fuel production pioneer INERATEC today formally agreed a  €40 million venture debt loan with the European Investment Bank (EIB) and €30 million grant with Breakthrough Energy Catalyst. The combined €70 million backing will finance construction of Europe`s largest sustainable e-Fuel production plant in Frankfurt and e-Fuel research and development of future, key steps in decarbonising aviation.

    The new e-Fuel financing was announced at the EIB-Group-Forum taking place this week in Luxembourg and underscores the strategic importance of e-Fuels in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors such as aviation. The new investment will enable INERATEC to scale up production capacity and commercialize its innovative reactor technology, which converts green hydrogen and CO2 into synthetic aviation fuel. The committed project funding, confirmed earlier this year, represents a significant step in commercialisation of INERATEC’s Power-to-Liquid technology, accelerating the transition towards a net-zero future.

    Transforming the Energy Landscape with e-Fuels

    INERATEC’s production process uses hydrogen, which is then combined with CO2 from biogenic sources like biogas plants or industrial emissions, using INERATEC’s Power-to-Liquid technology. This approach enables the production of synthetic crude oil, which can be processed into a range of synthetic fuels, including Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), marine fuels and e-Diesel. The use of CO2, which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, reduces the carbon-footprint of the fuel and will help to cut carbon emissions.

    At the production site outside Frankfurt, the main feedstock is supplied from the industrial park: the CO2 comes from a biogas plant that recycles waste, and the hydrogen is a by-product from an existing chlorine production facility. By utilizing compact and modular production units, INERATEC’s approach ensures efficient scalability and adaptability to different production sites.

    Beyond sustainable fuels for aviation, the synthetic oil that INERATEC produces can also be used as a base chemical for different sustainable products like plastics. This extends the contribution of INERATEC’s technology to sustainable supply for the chemical industry.

    Scaling Up to Meet Market Demand

    After building and operating plants at demonstration and industrial pilot scale, INERATEC now focuses on scaling up production and optimizing commercial deployment. The funding commitment backed by the EIB and Breakthrough Energy Catalyst will enable the company to deliver commercial-scale production, ensuring a steady supply of e-Fuels to meet increasing market demand and is critical in making synthetic fuels economically viable.  

    The plant will produce up to 2,500 tons of e-Fuel annually that will be delivered to the aviation sector, among others. One long haul flight between Frankfurt and New York uses 80 tons of kerosene. e-SAF from INERATEC could make flying on this route more sustainable by replacing fossil kerosene fully or partially on many flights. This clearly shows the importance of increasing the e-SAF production capacities beyond a pioneer plant. 

    The political requirement to shift to more sustainable forms of energy is supported by the European ReFuelEU Aviation-regulation which requires Airlines to use a minimum e-SAF blend of 1.2% by 2030, creating market opportunities.

    Bridging Innovation and Climate Goals

    The collaboration between INERATEC and the EU-Catalyst Partnership demonstrates how public and private sector partnerships can drive the commercialization of innovative and clean climate technologies. By building on past EU grant support and leveraging new investment mechanisms, this partnership provides a blueprint for scaling up other clean energy solutions.

    Accordingly, it shows the EU’s commitment to support innovative technologies that will help EU industry becoming cleaner and stay competitive. The lending by the EIB is made possible thanks to the support of the InvestEU programme, which is backed by an Innovation Fund top-up guarantee. The Innovation Fund is financed by the EU Emissions Trading System.

    The transformation of the European industry to clean technologies is being driven by a number of technological innovations, including the efficient production of hydrogen. EIB supports the latter by also funding an electrolysis-project by the Dresden-based start-up Sunfire. Sunfire and INERATEC were partners in a research project in 2019, when both enterprises for the first time demonstrated the production of sustainable e-Fuels from air-captured CO2 and solar power in a fully integrated plant.

    EIB Vice-President Nicola Beer said: “The EIB is committed to a competitive net-zero economy, especially in hard-to-decarbonize sectors like aviation. Through partnerships such as the EU-Breakthrough Catalyst initiative, we’re enabling a green transition for transport and are ultimately contributing to making prices of e-Fuels more economical.”

    Mario Fernandez, Head of Breakthrough Energy Catalyst: “INERATEC is on a promising path towards demonstrating that e-fuels can be economically produced at scale with the support of catalytic funding. Decarbonizing aviation requires real-world projects to drive down costs and crowd in investment. Breakthrough Energy Catalyst is proud to partner with INERATEC to accelerate deployment and unlock the potential to make e-fuels a reality.”

    INERATEC CEO Dr. Tim Boeltken commented: “This funding marks a new era for INERATEC. With the funding commitment from the EIB and Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, we are accelerating the industrialization of e-Fuel production. This will make a tangible impact in reducing CO2 emissions in sectors where direct electrification is not feasible. The focus now is on scaling up and deploying our technology where it is needed most.”

    Background information

    The EU-Catalyst partnership was launched in 2021 at COP26 in Glasgow by EU-President Ursula von der Leyen, EIB-President Werner Hoyer and Bill Gates, with the aim to develop large-scale green tech projects based in Europe and boost investments in critical climate technologies. The Partnership creates a blueprint for public-private support for clean tech innovative technologies.

    The European Investment Bank, as implementing partner of the Commission under InvestEU, has been tasked to deploy for the benefit of this partnership up to €420 million, made available from both Horizon Europe (EUR 200 million), and the Innovation Fund, which has committed EUR220 million. Breakthrough Energy Catalyst mobilizes equivalent private capital and philanthropic grants to fund the selected projects. The EU-Catalyst Partnership does not exclude potential additional contributions from EU Member States or other private partners that decide to further support the projects. Interested projects can apply for support through the Breakthrough Energy Catalyst website.

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality. The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed a total of €88 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in 2023.

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Accord. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Over half of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    Breakthrough Energy is committed to accelerating the world’s journey to a clean energy future. The organization funds breakthrough technologies, advocates for climate-smart policies, and mobilizes partners around the world to take effective action, accelerating progress at every stage.

    Breakthrough Energy Catalyst is a novel platform that funds and invests in first-of-a-kind commercial projects for emerging climate technologies. By investing in these opportunities, Catalyst seeks to accelerate the adoption of these technologies worldwide and reduce their costs.

    Catalyst currently focuses on five technology areas: clean hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, direct air capture, long-duration energy storage, and manufacturing decarbonization. In addition to capital, Catalyst leverages the team’s energy-infrastructure-investing and project-development expertise to work with innovators on advancing their projects from the development stage to funding and ultimately, to construction. Learn more about Breakthrough Energy and Catalyst at breakthroughenergy.org.

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds to mobilise private investments for the European Union’s policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is implemented through financial partners that will invest in projects leveraging the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. To this amount, further guarantees have been added from the EU’s Horizon programme and the Innovation Fund to support initiatives such as the EU-Catalyst partnership. 

    The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.  

    EIB venture debt is a quasi-equity investment product suitable for early and growth stage ventures, combining a long-term loan with an instrument linking the return to the performance of the company. Since 2015, the EIB has invested €6 billion in Venture Debt, backing over 200 companies and realising over 50 exits. With the backing of InvestEU, the EIB aims to support European ventures and scale-ups in the cleantech, deep-tech and life sciences sectors.

    The Innovation Fund: With an estimated revenue of €40 billion from the EU Emissions Trading System between 2020 and 2030, the Innovation Fund aims to support innovative net-zero technologies and support Europe’s transition to climate neutrality. The Innovation Fund contributes a €220 million top-up guarantee to the InvestEU Programme for the EU Catalyst Partnership, having enabled until now more than €100 million in lending from EIB.

    INERATEC is committed to defossilizing and decarbonizing the world. The company produces e-Fuels and e-chemicals: carbon-neutral fossil fuel substitutes for use in the aviation, shipping and chemical industries.

    Its modular, scalable plants use renewable hydrogen and biogenic CO2 to produce synthetic kerosene, gasoline, diesel, waxes, methanol or natural gas. It is building what will be the world’s largest e-fuels plant to date, in Frankfurt, which will produce up to 2,500 tonnes of ultra-low-carbon aviation fuel per year. The company is based in Karlsruhe, Germany and backed by diverse international investors.

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council approves ambitious Budget plan

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    New and upgraded schools, a major roads project, continuing investment in the city centre, and increased support for vulnerable and disadvantaged citizens form the basis of Aberdeen City Council’s 2025/26 Budget, which was approved today. 

    The Council is to spend £247 million on schools over the next five years, including £121m on the new Hazlehead Academy. There is a commitment to expand facilities at Harlaw Academy, refurbish St Peter’s Roman Catholic School and Ferryhill Primary, and progress an extension for Bucksburn Academy. 

    To help reduce congestion, £55 million will go to the Berryden Corridor Improvement Project, with work starting next year. In the city centre, £13m will be used to enhance the Castlegate as a public space. 

    The Budget also makes £1.534m available to the Fairer Aberdeen Fund in 2025/26, £1m through the Anti-Poverty and Inequality Committee for people struggling with the cost of living, and an extra £9.5m to deliver social care, bringing the Council’s total award to the Integration Joint Board (IJB) to £140m for the coming 12 months. 

    Councillor Alex McLellan, convener of the Finance and Resources Committee, said: “Despite the Council operating in incredibly challenging circumstances, we remain focussed on delivering essential public services and assisting people through the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. 

    “Aberdeen City Council is continuing to invest in the school estate, in roads, and other key infrastructure such as the regeneration of the city centre and beach area. 

    “These actions will ensure Aberdeen continues to be a place people want to live, want to work, want to raise a family, and want to start a business.” 

    The Budget allocates £668m to delivering public services in 2025/26 and £709m to capital projects over the next five years. 

    The Common Good Fund will help provide nearly £1.5m for to 15 external organisations for 2025/26, supporting recommendations put forward by the Culture Investment Panel.  Aberdeen Performing Arts was awarded £961,000.

    Sport Aberdeen, which operates the city’s leisure venues, will receive £4.1m for 2025/26. 

    And the Council will also fund a Cruyff Court in Kincorth – the city’s 4th – in partnership with the Denis Law Legacy Trust.  

    The gap between income and expenditure was estimated at £18.1m for 2025/26. To help address the shortfall and maintain service delivery, Council Tax is to rise by 9.85% in 2025/26. 

    For the next 12 months the Council’s Carbon Budget was set at 22,567 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, a maximum target on the road to Next Zero emissions by 2045.  

    Actions agreed include:  

    • Completing a £19m investment in a Hydrogen Hub, a joint venture with bp to produce and distribute green hydrogen;
    • £9m to enlarge the electric vehicle charging network. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government to unleash the North Sea’s clean energy future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government to unleash the North Sea’s clean energy future

    The government is consulting on plans to put the North Sea at the heart of Britain’s clean energy future and drive economic growth.

    • UK government consults on plan to unleash the North Sea’s clean energy future and ensure prosperous and sustainable transition for oil and gas

    • this plan backs industry to make North Sea a world-leader in offshore industries, such as hydrogen, carbon capture and wind, as part of the government’s clean energy superpower mission

    • it also offers oil and gas industry long-term certainty on the fiscal landscape by ending the Energy Profits Levy and consulting on a new regime to boost investment in jobs and growth 

    • consultation gives certainty to industry about the lifespan of oil and gas projects by committing to maintain existing fields for their lifetime and work with business and communities on a managed transition, while implementing the commitment not to issue new licences to explore new fields 

    The government has today (Wednesday 5 March) launched a consultation that will put the North Sea – its communities, workers, businesses and supply chains – at the heart of Britain’s clean energy future to drive economic growth and deliver the Plan for Change.   

    This will support private investment into the technologies that will deliver the next generation of good jobs for North Sea workers, invest in local communities, cut carbon emissions and help the UK become energy secure.

    The consultation sets out the next steps in the government’s overarching objective for the North Sea to make it a world leading example of an offshore clean energy industry, building on the UK’s world-class oil and gas heritage. In addition to maintaining existing oil and gas fields, and continuing ongoing domestic production, which have been critical to the UK’s energy system and will continue to play an important role for decades to come, the government wants to boost the economy through the expansion of clean technologies, protecting the country’s energy security in the process. To achieve this, the government needs to ensure the oil and gas industry and its workers can take advantage of a clean energy future.

    Separately, HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs are confirming that the Energy Profits Levy will end in 2030. They are consulting on what a new regime could look like, to respond to any future shocks in oil and gas prices. The government will work closely with the sector and other stakeholders to develop an approach that protects jobs in existing and future industries and delivers a fair return for the nation, during times of unusually high prices. The government will ensure that the oil and gas industry has the long-term certainty it needs on the future fiscal landscape, helping to support investment and protect businesses and jobs now and for the future. 

    The government is committed to working with industry, communities, trade unions and wider organisations to develop a plan that will ensure a phased transition for the North Sea – creating tens of thousands more jobs in offshore renewables estimated by 2030.   

    The government recognises the call of workers and trade unions for a coordinated plan to protect good jobs, pay terms and conditions in the North Sea, and commits to shaping this plan with workers and unions. 

    The consultation also includes delivering the government’s commitment not to issue new licences to explore new oil and gas fields in the UK, in line with the science of what is required to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees. The consultation also engages with industry on how to manage existing fields, which will continue to make an important contribution during the clean energy transition, for the entirety of their lifespan.  

    This comes after the government has backed new investment into Scotland’s clean energy future, awarding £55.7 million to the Port of Cromarty Firth, securing critical facilities needed for the rapid development of new floating offshore wind farms and ensuring that they are built from the UK.

    By sprinting to achieve this mission, the UK can take back control of its energy and protect both family and national finances from fossil fuel price spikes – with cleaner, affordable, homegrown power. As part of this, Britain must also reduce its dependency on oil and gas, which leaves consumers exposed to unstable global energy markets, as its price is set on international markets.  

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    The North Sea will be at the heart of Britain’s energy future. For decades, its workers, businesses and communities have helped power our country and our world. 

    Oil and gas production will continue to play an important role and, as the world embraces the drive to clean energy, the North Sea can power our Plan for Change and clean energy future in the decades ahead.  

    This consultation is about a dialogue with North Sea communities – businesses, trade unions, workers, environmental groups and communities – to develop a plan that enables us to take advantage of the tremendous opportunities of the years ahead.

    Diversifying the North Sea industries while domestic production is managed for decades to come is key to protecting its jobs and investment in the long-term. Today’s consultation explores how to harness the North Sea’s existing infrastructure, natural assets and world-leading expertise to deploy new technologies – like hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, and renewables – to create skilled jobs, meet the UK’s climate obligations, and make the UK a clean energy superpower.  

    It is estimated that the offshore renewables workforce, including offshore wind, CCUS and hydrogen, could increase to between 70,000 and 138,000 in 2030, Meanwhile, an up-and-running carbon capture industry alone is expected to add around £5 billion per year of gross value to the UK economy by 2050. 

    New proposals could also see changes to the role of North Sea Transition Authority, as the regulator of UK oil and gas, offshore hydrogen, and carbon storage industries. This includes ensuring the authority has the regulatory framework it needs to support the government’s vision for the long-term future of the North Sea and enable an orderly and prosperous transition to clean energy.  

    The government has already taken rapid steps in accelerating clean energy industries – with the biggest ever investment in offshore wind and up to £21.7 billion in funding over the next 25 years for carbon capture and storage and hydrogen projects. This comes alongside the launch of Great British Energy, headquartered in Aberdeen, and the creation of a National Wealth Fund, both of which will unlock significant investment in clean power projects across the UK and help create thousands of skilled jobs. 

    The government has also consulted on revised environmental guidance offshore oil and gas projects and will respond to give certainty to the industry and enable developers to resume applying for consents for already-licensed projects. This follows a Supreme Court ruling last year that requires regulators to consider the impact of burning oil and gas – known as scope 3 emissions – in the Environmental Impact Assessment for new projects.

    Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray, said: 

    We are committed to working together with the sector on the future of the North Sea by providing the stability they need to keep investing and supporting jobs across the country while ensuring they make a fair contribution at times of unusually high prices. 

    Tania Kumar, Net Zero Director, CBI said:

    The North Sea has long been a cornerstone of the UK’s energy sector and will continue to play a vital role in securing energy independence and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Today’s consultations highlight the government’s commitment to a managed transition. Success hinges on our collaboration with communities, workers, and businesses to develop a practical plan.   

    Robust regulation and the pivotal role of the North Sea Transition Authority will be essential. The UK’s net zero economy is growing faster than the rest of the economy – the future is green growth and managing the transition away from fossil fuels to a clean energy future for the North Sea is vital to achieving it. 

    Dhara Vyas, CEO, Energy UK said: 

    Today’s announcement offers a positive step toward a just transition for offshore workers. The North Sea has been an engine of economic growth and energy security for the UK, but it’s critical to ensure pathways are available for offshore workers to transition to the low carbon industries of the future. The government has a sent a strong signal about the UK’s clean energy future, and the role the North Sea will continue to play in fostering clean technologies such as offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage. The clean energy mission can help ensure the North Sea’s best days are ahead of it, powering economic growth and enabling the UK to lead the way in the global clean industrial revolution. 

    David Whitehouse, Chief Executive, OEUK said:

    The UK offshore energy industry, including its oil and gas sector, is responsible for thousands of jobs across Scotland and the UK, and today the government has committed to meaningful consultation on the long-term future of our North Sea. That is important and welcomed. Energy policy underpins our national security – how we build a clean energy future and leverage our proud heritage matters.

    Today’s consultations, on both the critical role of the North Sea in the energy transition and how the taxation regime will respond to unusually high oil and gas prices, will help to begin to give certainty to investors and create a stable investment environment for years to come. We will continue to work with government and wider stakeholders to ensure a future North Sea which delivers economic growth and supports the communities that rely on this sector and workers across right and the UK.

    Rachel Solomon Williams, Executive Director, Aldersgate Group said:  

    The private sector recognises the growth opportunity of the clean energy transition alongside the risks associated with investments that are incompatible with the 1.5C target. This consultation is an important step on the path to building a prosperous and resilient economy, with wider benefits across all regions of the UK. Investing in assets that risk becoming stranded is sustainable for neither the UK economy nor the environment – the government’s recognition of this position will contribute to resolving uncertainty and building private sector confidence for clean energy investments in the region.    

    The skills and expertise built over recent decades in the North Sea are invaluable. They are highly transferable for clean energy and other growth sectors, both directly and with further upskilling. We welcome the government’s announcement that it is ensuring that the North Sea transition makes best use of the strengths in the region, creating opportunities and jobs. Capturing this growth opportunity for the UK must ensure that the local communities and workers can play a role in future energy sectors. The right policy framework and engagement with industry and local communities can enable a transition to net zero emissions without deindustrialisation.

    Dan McGrail, Chief Executive, RenewableUK said: 

    The biggest offshore wind farms in the world are being built in the North Sea and even more ambitious projects are being planned. Offshore wind is at the very heart of the government’s mission to reach clean power by 2030 and net zero by 2050, and the industry also offers the UK one of its biggest opportunities for job creation, industrial regeneration and economic growth. 

    The North Sea is already playing a crucial role in powering the UK and this is set to grow in the years ahead. A future focused on offshore wind isn’t just cleaner – it provides a more stable energy system for billpayers as we will be less exposed to volatile international fossil fuel prices. Offshore wind also offers opportunities for skilled workers from other industries to transfer into this dynamic and innovative sector.

    Notes to Editors 

    The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s consultation on Building the North Sea’s Energy Future will run for 8 weeks from 5 March to 30 April.

    The government is consulting on how to deliver its commitment to end new licences to explore new fields, including all new seaward exploration and production licences to search for and extract new oil and gas resources in the UK. Licence extensions and transfers would not be affected, to facilitate existing fields to operate for the entirety of their lifetime and support the government’s commitments not to revoke existing licences. Licences for carbon storage, gas storage and methane drainage would also not be affected.   

    The consultation also sets out the government’s commitment to end new licences for onshore oil and gas exploration and production in England.    

    HM Treasury’s consultation on High Price Mechanism for Oil and Gas will run for 12 weeks from 5 March to 28 May.   

    Officials figures from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s ‘Digest of UK Energy Statistics’ show a 72% reduction in UK oil and gas production occurring between 1999 and 2023. The North Sea Transition Authority also predicts an 89 per cent drop in UK oil and gas production by 2050.   

    Office for National Statistics’ analysis shows that direct jobs in oil and gas extraction fell by around a third between 2014 and 2023.   

    Meanwhile, findings from the Robert Gordon University study ‘Powering up the Workforce’ in 2023 estimated that the offshore renewables workforce – which includes offshore wind, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen – could increase to between 70,000 and 138,000 in 2030. This study also found that over 90% of the UK’s oil and gas workforce have medium to high skills transferability and are well positioned to work in adjacent energy sector.   

    Today’s announcement also comes after the government confirmed Aberdeen, Cheshire, Lincolnshire and Pembrokeshire as key growth regions for clean energy and launched pilots to help workers in these areas access jobs in new clean energy industries.    

    Oil and gas workers will also get help to move into these sectors, thanks to a new energy ‘skills passport’ launched last month – led by Renewable UK and Offshore Energies UK, and backed by UK and Scottish Governments. This tool will support workers into careers in offshore wind initially, before being expanded to other renewables roles later this year.   

    Many of the skills required for the transition already exist, with research showing that 90% of oil and gas workers have transferable skills for offshore renewable jobs. The government is now exploring what further support is needed to help workers take full advantage of the UK’s clean energy transition, as part of its consultation on the future of the North Sea.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster to Headline Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris

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

    PARIS, France, March 5, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa at TotalEnergies, will deliver a keynote address at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris this May. Sangster will also participate in an exclusive fireside chat, offering critical insights into the company’s vision for Africa’s energy future, its ongoing projects and the evolving role of oil and gas in the continent’s energy mix.

    TotalEnergies continues to drive oil and gas development across Africa, with a strong focus on both emerging and mature markets. In Namibia, the company is advancing its Venus-1 discovery, targeting first oil by the decade’s end, with an FID expected in early 2026 for a development producing 150,000 barrels per day. TotalEnergies is also exploring additional prospects in the Orange Basin, having recently drilled the Marula-1X and Tabmoti-1X wells. In the Republic of Congo, the company is investing $600 million to expand deepwater production at the Moho Nord field, while in Libya, it plans to complete an onshore exploration project and lead new drilling campaigns in the Waha and Sharara fields in 2025.

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

    Meanwhile, TotalEnergies is expanding its gas processing and midstream infrastructure across Africa, strengthening its role in the continent’s evolving energy landscape. In Mozambique, the company is progressing with the Mozambique LNG project, a $20 billion development expected to secure renewed financial backing from export credit agencies. I Uganda, TotalEnergies is gearing up for first oil from its Tilenga field in 2025, with crude transported via the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). Once operational, EACOP will be the longest heated crude oil pipeline globally, significantly enhancing East Africa’s ability to monetize its hydrocarbon resources and attract further investment into the region’s energy sector.

    TotalEnergies is also expanding its renewable energy footprint in Africa through strategic investments in solar, wind, hydropower and green hydrogen. The company is advancing its 500 MW Sadada solar project in Libya and acquired Scatec’s hydropower portfolio on the continent in July 2024, including the 250 MW Bujagali Hydropower Plant in Uganda and stakes in projects in Malawi, Rwanda and the DRC. In South Africa, TotalEnergies is constructing a 216 MW solar plant with battery storage, along with a 140 MW wind farm and a 120 MW solar facility, set to supply green electricity to Sasol’s industrial operations. In Morocco, the company is developing the Chbika project, a 1 GW wind and solar farm designed to produce 200,000 metric tons of green ammonia annually for export to Europe. These initiatives align with TotalEnergies’ strategy to integrate renewables into its portfolio while supporting Africa’s energy transition.

    Sangster’s participation at IAE 2025 comes at a pivotal time for Africa’s energy sector, as investors and policymakers navigate a shifting global energy landscape. His keynote address and fireside chat will provide valuable perspectives on the role of private investment in African energy, strategies for unlocking new upstream opportunities and how TotalEnergies is adapting to the continent’s long-term energy needs.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets US Heritage Foundation founder Dr. Edwin Feulner

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    Details
    2025-03-04
    President Lai attends opening ceremony of GCTF Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response
    On the morning of March 4, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening ceremony of the Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response. In remarks, President Lai stated that global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge, and growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, he said, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. The president said that as a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world, and that the GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. President Lai indicated that Taiwan will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board, enhance disaster response capabilities in the community, and leverage its strengths to make contributions to the international community. He said that we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan, and expressed hope to advance mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can together promote stability and prosperity around the world. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: To begin, I would like to welcome more than 60 distinguished guests from 30 countries, as well as experts from Taiwan. You are all here for this GCTF workshop to discuss whole-of-society resilience building, preparation, and response. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world. The GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. I want to thank our full GCTF partners, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada. Over the past several years, we have worked with even more countries through this framework and have expanded our exchanges into even more fields. Together, we have met all kinds of new challenges. I am confident that as our cooperation grows stronger, so will our ability to promote global progress. Each of today’s guests is contributing a vital force in that regard. I extend my sincere thanks to you all. Global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge. And growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, and stands at the very frontline of the defense of democracy. With this joint workshop, we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan. We are also aiming to advance our mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can make our societies more resilient and together promote stability and prosperity around the world. Moving forward, we will continue advancing the following three initiatives: First, we will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board. Just last year, I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. Civilian force training, strategic material preparation, and critical infrastructure operation and maintenance are all key discussion areas for our committee. These aim to enhance Taiwan’s resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. They are also items on the agenda for this GCTF workshop. To cover all the bases, Taiwan must unite and cooperate as a team. Last year, our committee held the very first cross-sector tabletop exercise at the Presidential Office which included central and local government officials as well as civilian observers. We aim to test the government’s emergency response capabilities in high-intensity gray-zone operations and near-conflict situations. We will continue to hold exercises to help the central and local governments work together more efficiently, and strengthen Taiwan’s overall disaster response capabilities. Second is to enhance disaster response capabilities in the community. We fully understand that to build whole-of-society resilience, we must help people increase risk awareness, know how to respond to disasters, and develop abilities to help themselves, help one another, and work together. We are grateful to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) for collaborating with the Taiwan Development Association for Disaster Medical Teams to host “Take Action” workshops around the country since 2021. A 2.0 version is already in practice, and continues to train the public in first aid skills. Director of the AIT Taipei Office Raymond Greene and I took part in a Take Action event in New Taipei City last year and personally saw the positive outcomes of the training. In addition to the Take Action workshops, the government is also providing Disaster Relief Volunteer training for ages 11 to 89, and is continuing to expand its target audience. We have also set up Taiwan Community Emergency Response Teams at key facilities nationwide, enhancing the ability of these important facilities to respond independently to disasters. Civilian training will continue to be refined and expanded so that members of the public can serve as important partners in government-led disaster prevention and relief. Third, we will leverage Taiwan’s strengths to make contributions to the international community. The inspiration for our Disaster Relief Volunteer training comes from a similar program run by The Nippon Care-Fit Education Institute in Japan. I am confident that through exchanges like this workshop, Taiwan and other countries can also inspire one another in many areas, and enhance whole-of-society resilience in multiple ways. Taiwan also excels in information and communications and advanced technology. We will set up even more robust cybersecurity systems, expand usage of emerging technologies, and improve the ways we maintain domestic security. We hope that by leveraging our capabilities and sharing our experiences, Taiwan can contribute even more to the international community. I want to welcome all our partners once again, and thank AIT for co-hosting this event. Let’s continue down the path of advancing global security and developing resilience together. Because together, we can travel farther, and we can travel longer. Also in attendance at the event were Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Deputy Representative Takaba Yo, Australian Office in Taipei Representative Robert Fergusson, and Canadian Trade Office in Taipei Executive Director Jim Nickel.

    Details
    2025-02-24
    President Lai meets Japanese House of Representatives Member Tamaki Yuichiro
    On the afternoon of February 24, President Lai Ching-te met with Japanese House of Representatives Member Tamaki Yuichiro. In remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Japan are important trading partners. The president expressed hope that, in addition to semiconductors, Taiwan and Japan can also bolster cooperation in the fields of hydrogen energy and drones and build non-red supply chains, thus creating economic win-win situations and maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and globally. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to start by warmly welcoming Representative Tamaki on his first trip to Taiwan. Now is a key moment for the cooperative ties between Taiwan and Japan, and the fact that Representative Tamaki has chosen to take time out of his busy schedule to make this trip demonstrates his especially meaningful support for Taiwan. For this I want to express my deepest gratitude. At the beginning of this month, Japan and the United States held a summit meeting. In the post-summit joint leaders’ statement the government of Japan reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion, and expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations. I would like to thank the government of Japan for these statements. Taiwan and Japan are both responsible members of the international community. I welcome an even firmer friendship between Japan and the US and hope to see cooperation among Taiwan, Japan, and the US become a solid force in consolidating peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. In addition to complex international conditions, we now also face the threat of China’s red supply chain. More and more countries are becoming increasingly concerned about such issues as economic security and supply chain resilience. As authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must also come closer in solidarity. Taiwan and Japan are important trading partners. I hope that, in addition to semiconductors, Taiwan and Japan can also bolster cooperation in the fields of hydrogen energy and drones, and that we can build non-red supply chains, thus creating economic win-win situations and maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and globally. Lastly, I would like once again to welcome Representative Tamaki to Taiwan and wish him a successful visit. I hope he departs Taiwan with a deep impression and that he will visit again. Representative Tamaki then delivered remarks, noting that this was his first visit to Taiwan and thanking President Lai and officials of the Taiwan government for their warm welcome. Pointing out that Taiwan-Japan ties are closer than ever thanks to the major efforts made on this front by President Lai since taking office, Representative Tamaki expressed his admiration and gratitude. Representative Tamaki pointed out that in a changing global landscape, Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region all face major changes, but he firmly believes that Taiwan-Japan relations will develop even further. Recalling President Lai’s previous remarks, the representative said that Japan and the US recently held a summit meeting that yielded important results. In the joint leaders’ statement, he noted, the two sides made a clear commitment regarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and firmly opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion. Representative Tamaki said that the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the Komeito did not win a majority in last year’s House of Representatives general elections, while the number of seats held by his own Democratic Party for the People quadrupled. This result, he said, has filled him with a feeling of great responsibility. Moving forward, he intends to continue promoting Taiwan-Japan cooperation and strengthening relations. Also in attendance at the meeting was Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-02-21
    President Lai meets Abe Akie, wife of late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo of Japan
    On the morning of February 21, President Lai Ching-te met with Abe Akie, the wife of late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo of Japan. In remarks, President Lai thanked Mrs. Abe for carrying on the legacy of former Prime Minister Abe, being a benevolent and determined force for regional peace and prosperity, and calling on all parties to continue to place attention on peace in the Taiwan Strait. The president stated that Taiwan will carry on the legacy and spirit of former President Lee Teng-hui and former Prime Minister Abe, safeguard the values of freedom and democracy, and deepen the Taiwan-Japan friendship. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Last May, Mrs. Abe came to Taiwan to attend the inauguration ceremony for myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, and we reminisced about the past here at the Presidential Office. I would like to warmly welcome her back today. I am also delighted to be meeting with all guests in attendance. Yesterday, Mrs. Abe and I attended the opening of the very first Halifax Taipei forum, for which Mrs. Abe also delivered a keynote speech earlier today. In her speech, she offered valuable input on global security and democratic development. I would like to thank Mrs. Abe for making this special trip to Taiwan to take part, showing her strong support for Taiwan. Former Prime Minister Abe pioneered the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and called on the international community to pay attention to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and Indo-Pacific. These have become common strategic goals of democratic countries around the world and will have a far-reaching influence over international developments and Taiwan’s security. They were important contributions that former Prime Minister Abe made in regard to the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region. Recently, current Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and United States President Donald Trump held a meeting and jointly reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, as well as opposed unilateral changes to the status quo by force or coercion. They also expressed support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations. This shows that Prime Minister Ishiba is furthering the legacy of former Prime Minister Abe. We are very grateful for the former prime minister’s friendship toward Taiwan, and to Mrs. Abe for carrying on his legacy. Mrs. Abe is a benevolent and determined force for regional peace and prosperity, and has called on all parties at numerous public venues to continue to place attention on peace in the Taiwan Strait. Last December, for instance, she traveled at the invitation of President Trump and his wife to the US, where she addressed cross-strait issues and spoke up for Taiwan. We were deeply moved by this. As authoritarian states continue to expand, Taiwan will keep working alongside like-minded nations such as Japan and the US, as well as the European Union, to jointly contribute to regional and global peace and prosperity. I look forward to continued advancement of regional peace and prosperity with the help of Mrs. Abe’s efforts. Mrs. Abe will also be meeting with daughter of former President Lee and Lee Teng-hui Foundation Chairperson Annie Lee (李安妮) tomorrow. Former President Lee and former Prime Minister Abe were both fully devoted to promoting Taiwan-Japan relations. We will carry on their legacy and spirit, safeguard the values of freedom and democracy, and deepen the Taiwan-Japan friendship. In closing, I wish you all a smooth and successful visit. Mrs. Abe then delivered remarks, first expressing her sincere thanks to President Lai for taking the time to meet. She said that former Prime Minister Abe hailed from Yamaguchi Prefecture, and that accompanying her that day were House of Councillors Member Kitamura Tsuneo, Yamaguchi Prefecture Governor Muraoka Tsugumasa, Yamaguchi Prefectural Assembly Deputy Speaker Shimata Noriaki, and many other important figures from Yamaguchi. If former Prime Minister Abe’s spirit could look upon this scene, she said, he would certainly be very pleased. Mrs. Abe recalled that when the former prime minister passed away, then-Vice President Lai traveled to their official residence to express his condolences and pay tribute. She said that she will never forget such a gesture of deep friendship, heartfelt condolences, and care. The year before last, she indicated, a memorial photo exhibition for former Prime Minister Abe was held in Taiwan, and many Taiwanese people from all walks of life came to view it. Last year, Mrs. Abe continued, she had the privilege of attending President Lai’s inauguration ceremony, where she met with many friends from Taiwan and personally felt the close and beautiful ties that Taiwan and Japan share. Mrs. Abe stated that she will carry out the wishes of former Prime Minister Abe and do her utmost to help raise Taiwan-Japan relations to new heights, saying that she looks forward to hearing the advice that President Lai and all those present have to offer. The delegation also included Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.

    Details
    2025-02-20
    President Lai attends opening of 2025 Halifax Taipei forum
    On the afternoon of February 20, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening of the 2025 Halifax Taipei forum. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Halifax International Security Forum for their strong support for Taiwan, and for having chosen Taiwan as the first location outside North America to hold a forum. Noting that we face a complex global landscape, the president called on the international community to take action. He said that as authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must also come closer in solidarity, and called on the international community to create non-red global supply chains, as well as unite to usher in peace. President Lai emphasized that Taiwan will work toward maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and collaborate with democratic partners to form a global alliance for the AI chip industry and together greet a bright, new era. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: To begin, I want to give a warm welcome to all the distinguished guests here at the very first Halifax Taipei forum. The Halifax International Security Forum, held every year in Canada, has been an important gathering for freedom-loving nations worldwide. I would like to thank Halifax and President [Peter] Van Praagh for their strong support for Taiwan. Every year since 2018, Taiwan has been invited to participate in the forum. Last year, former President Tsai Ing-wen was invited to speak, and this year, Halifax has chosen Taiwan as the first location outside North America to hold a forum. As President Van Praagh has said, “While the security challenges ahead are too big for any single country to solve alone, there is no challenge that can’t be met when the world’s democracies work together.” Today, we have world leaders and experts who traveled from afar to be here, showing that they value and support Taiwan. It demonstrates solidarity among democracies and the determination to take on challenges as one. I would like to express my gratitude and admiration to all of you for serving as defenders of freedom. At this very moment, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is still ongoing. Authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran continue to consolidate. China is hurting economies around the world through its dumping practices. We face grave challenges to global economic order, democracy, freedom, peace, and stability. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, directly facing an authoritarian threat. But we will not be intimidated. We will stand firm and safeguard our national sovereignty, maintain our free and democratic way of life, and uphold peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan cherishes peace, but we also have no delusions about peace. We will uphold the spirit of peace through strength, using concrete actions to build a stronger Taiwan and bolster the free and democratic community. I sincerely thank the international community for continuing to attach importance to the situation in the Taiwan Strait. Recently, US President Donald Trump and Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru issued a joint leaders’ statement expressing their firm support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and for Taiwan’s participation in international affairs. As we face a complex global landscape, I call on the international community to take the following actions: First, as authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must also come closer in solidarity. Just a few days ago, the top diplomats of the US, Japan, and South Korea held talks, underlining the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They also conveyed their stance against “any effort to destabilize democratic institutions, economic independence, and global security.” On these issues, Taiwan will also continue to contribute its utmost. I recently announced that we will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP.  Soon after I assumed office last year, I formed the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. This committee aims to combine the strengths of government and civil society to enhance our resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. We will also deepen our strategic partnerships in the democratic community to mutually increase defense resilience, demonstrate deterrence, and achieve our goal of peace throughout the world. Second, let’s create non-red global supply chains.  For the democratic community to deter the expansion of authoritarianism, it must have strong technological capabilities. These can serve as the backbone of national defense, promote industrial development, and enhance economic resilience. So, in addressing China’s red supply chain and the impact of its dumping, Taiwan is willing and able to work with global democracies to maintain the technological strengths among our partners and build resilient non-red supply chains. As a major semiconductor manufacturing nation, Taiwan will introduce an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. We will collaborate with our democratic partners to form a global alliance for the AI chip industry and establish democratic supply chains for industries connected to high-end chips. The achievements of today’s semiconductor industry in Taiwan can be attributed to our collective efforts. Government, industry, academia, and research institutions had to overcome various challenges over the last 50 years for us to secure this position.  We hope Taiwan can serve as a base for linking the capabilities of our democratic partners so that each can play a suitable role in the semiconductor industry chain and develop its own strengths, deepening our mutually beneficial cooperation in technology. This benefits all of us. Moreover, it allows us to further enhance deterrence and maintain global security. Third, let’s unite to usher in peace. China has not stopped intimidating Taiwan politically and militarily. Last year, China launched several large-scale military exercises in the Taiwan Strait. Its escalation of gray-zone aggression now poses a grave threat to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan will maintain the status quo. We will not seek conflict. Rather, we are willing to engage in dialogue with China, under the principles of parity and dignity, and work toward maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. As the agenda of this forum suggests, democracy and freedom create more than just opportunities; they also bring resilience, justice, partnerships, and security. Taiwan will continue working alongside its democratic partners to greet a bright, new era. Once again, a warm welcome to all of you. I wish this forum every success. Thank you. Also in attendance at the event were Mrs. Abe Akie, wife of the late former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo of Japan, and Halifax International Security Forum President Van Praagh.

    Details
    2025-02-18
    President Lai meets British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group delegation
    On the morning of February 18, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG). In remarks, President Lai thanked the delegation members, the Parliament of the United Kingdom, and the UK government for continuing to demonstrate support for Taiwan through a variety of means. He also stated that Taiwan-UK relations have advanced significantly in recent years, noting that the Taiwan-UK Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) is the first institutionalized economic and trade framework signed between Taiwan and any European country. The president said he looks forward to continuing to deepen Taiwan-UK relations and jointly maintaining regional and global peace and stability, and indicated that together, we can create win-win developments for both Taiwan and the UK and Taiwan and European nations. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: This is the first UK parliamentary delegation of the current session to visit Taiwan. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to you all. APPG Chair Sarah Champion visited Taiwan last May to attend the inauguration ceremony of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. In July, she also attended the annual summit of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), which was held in Taipei. I am delighted that we are meeting once again. Taiwan-UK relations have advanced significantly in recent years. I would especially like to thank our distinguished guests, as well as the UK Parliament and government, for continuing to demonstrate support for Taiwan through a variety of means. For example, the House of Commons held a debate on Taiwan’s international status last November. After the debate, a motion was unanimously passed affirming that United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 does not mention Taiwan. Responding to the motion, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Catherine West stated that the UK opposes any attempt to broaden the interpretation of the resolution to rewrite history. This highlighted concrete progress in Taiwan-UK bilateral relations. I would also like to thank the UK Parliament and government for openly opposing on multiple occasions any unilateral change to the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, and for emphasizing that the security of the Indo-Pacific and transatlantic regions is closely intertwined. We look forward to continuing to deepen Taiwan-UK relations and jointly maintaining regional and global peace and stability. Together, we can create win-win developments for both Taiwan and the UK and Taiwan and European nations. For example, the Taiwan-UK ETP is the first institutionalized economic and trade framework signed between Taiwan and any European country. We hope to swiftly conclude negotiations on signing sub-arrangements on investment, digital trade, and energy and net-zero transition. This will facilitate even more exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and the UK. We also hope that the UK will continue to support Taiwan’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Together, we can build even more resilient global supply chains and further contribute to global prosperity and development. I believe that this visit adds to a strong and solid foundation for future Taiwan-UK cooperation. Thank you once again for backing Taiwan. I wish you a fruitful and successful visit. Chair Champion then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for his warm welcome and for the hospitality he has shown to her and the delegation, and thanking Taiwan’s excellent team of officials for their care and attention. Chair Champion expressed that she thinks the IPAC conference held in Taiwan at the end of July last year was very significant, with legislators from 23 countries coming to show support for Taiwan, adding that that is something they have built on since the conference. She stated that she is also very proud that the UK Parliament supported the motion which made very clear that UNGA Resolution 2758 is specific to China and only to China, expressing that it was important and powerful that they recognize that. The chair went on to say that after the UK’s general election, more than half of the members of parliament are now new. She said she is very proud that there are new MPs as part of the delegation, and that she hopes it gives President Lai reassurance that their commitment to Taiwan is still there.  Chair Champion emphasized that the all-party group is important because it is indeed all-party, and that they work together for their common interests, stating that the common interest for the UK and for the world is to maintain Taiwan’s sovereignty. She also noted that the United States has now come out very much in support of Taiwan, which she said she hopes encourages other countries around the world to do the same. Chair Champion said that the UK will be going into the 27th trade negotiation with Taiwan, and that they hope the partnership that develops is very fruitful. The chair closed by saying that it is wonderful for the delegation to be meeting President Lai, as well as legislators and ministers, and to be understanding more about the culture of Taiwan so that they can build a deeper, longer-lasting friendship. The delegation also included Lord Purvis of Tweed of the House of Lords and Members of Parliament Ben Spencer, Helena Dollimore, Noah Law, and David Reed. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Political and Communications Director at the British Office in Taipei Natasha Harrington.  

    Details
    2025-02-14
    President Lai holds press conference following high-level national security meeting
    On the morning of February 14, President Lai Ching-te convened the first high-level national security meeting of the year, following which he held a press conference. In remarks, President Lai announced that in this new year, the government will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that Taiwan’s defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. He stated that the government will also continue to reform national defense, reform our legal framework for national security, and advance our economic and trade strategy of being rooted in Taiwan while expanding globally. The president also proposed clear-cut national strategies for Taiwan-US relations, semiconductor industry development, and cross-strait relations. President Lai indicated that he instructed the national security and administrative teams to take swift action and deliver results, working within a stable strategic framework and according to the various policies and approaches outlined. He also instructed them to keep a close watch on changes in the international situation, seize opportunities whenever they arise, and address the concerns and hope of the citizens with concrete actions. He expressed hope that as long as citizens remain steadfast in their convictions, are willing to work hand in hand, stand firm amidst uncertainty, and look for ways to win within changing circumstances, Taiwan is certain to prevail in the test of time yet again. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I would like to convey my condolences for the tragic incident which occurred at the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in Taichung, which resulted in numerous casualties. I have instructed Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) to lead the relevant central government agencies in assisting Taichung’s municipal government with actively resolving various issues regarding the incident. It is my hope that these issues can be resolved efficiently. Earlier today, I convened this year’s first high-level national security meeting. I will now report on the discussions from the meeting to all citizens. 2025 is a year full of challenges, but also a year full of hope. In today’s global landscape, the democratic world faces common threats posed by the convergence of authoritarian regimes, while dumping and unfair competition from China undermine the global economic order. A new United States administration was formed at the beginning of the year, adopting all-new strategies and policies to address challenges both domestic and from overseas. Every nation worldwide, including ours, is facing a new phase of changes and challenges. In face of such changes, ensuring national security, ensuring Taiwan’s indispensability in global supply chains, and ensuring that our nation continues to make progress amidst challenges are our top priorities this year. They are also why we convened a high-level national security meeting today. At the meeting, the national security team, the administrative team led by Premier Cho, and I held an in-depth discussion based on the overall state of affairs at home and abroad and the strategies the teams had prepared in response. We summed up the following points as an overall strategy for the next stage of advancing national security and development. First, for overall national security, so that we can ensure the freedom, democracy, and human rights of the Taiwanese people, as well as the progress and development of the nation as we face various threats from authoritarian regimes, Taiwan must resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, strengthen self-sufficiency in national defense, and consolidate national defense. Taiwan must enhance economic resilience, maintain economic autonomy, and stand firm with other democracies as we deepen our strategic partnerships with like-minded countries. As I have said, “As authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must come closer in solidarity!” And so, in this new year, we will focus on the following three priorities: First, to demonstrate our resolve for national defense, we will continue to reform national defense, implement whole-of-society defense resilience, and prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that our defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. Second, to counter the threats to our national security from China’s united front tactics, attempts at infiltration, and cognitive warfare, we will continue with the reform of our legal framework for national security and expand the national security framework to boost societal resilience and foster unity within. Third, to seize opportunities in the restructuring of global supply chains and realignment of the economic order, we will continue advancing our economic and trade strategy of being rooted in Taiwan while expanding globally, strengthening protections for high-tech, and collaborating with our friends and allies to build supply chains for global democracies. Everyone shares concern regarding Taiwan-US relations, semiconductor industry development, and cross-strait relations. For these issues, I am proposing clear-cut national strategies. First, I will touch on Taiwan-US relations. Taiwan and the US have shared ideals and values, and are staunch partners within the democratic, free community. We are very grateful to President Donald Trump’s administration for their continued support for Taiwan after taking office. We are especially grateful for the US and Japan’s joint leaders’ statement reiterating “the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element of security and prosperity for the international community,” as well as their high level of concern regarding China’s threat to regional security. In fact, the Democratic Progressive Party government has worked very closely with President Trump ever since his first term in office, and has remained an international partner. The procurement of numerous key advanced arms, freedom of navigation critical for security and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and many assisted breakthroughs in international diplomacy were made possible during this time. Positioned in the first island chain and on the democratic world’s frontline countering authoritarianism, Taiwan is willing and will continue to work with the US at all levels as we pursue regional stability and prosperity, helping realize our vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Although changes in policy may occur these next few years, the mutual trust and close cooperation between Taiwan and Washington will steadfastly endure. On that, our citizens can rest assured. In accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, the US announced a total of 48 military sales to Taiwan over the past eight years amounting to US$26.265 billion. During President Trump’s first term, 22 sales were announced totaling US$18.763 billion. This greatly supported Taiwan’s defensive capabilities. On the foundation of our close cooperation with the past eight years’ two US administrations, Taiwan will continue to demonstrate our determination for self-defense, accelerate the bolstering of our national defense, and keep enhancing the depth and breadth of Taiwan-US security cooperation, along with all manner of institutional cooperation. In terms of bilateral economic cooperation, Taiwan has always been one of the US’s most reliable trade partners, as well as one of the most important cooperative partners of US companies in the global semiconductor industry. In the past few years, Taiwan has greatly increased both direct and indirect investment in the US. By 2024, investment surpassed US$100 billion, creating nearly 400,000 job opportunities. In 2023 and 2024, investment in the US accounted for over 40 percent of Taiwan’s overall foreign investment, far surpassing our investment in China. In fact, in 2023 and 2024, Taiwanese investment in China fell to 11 percent and 8 percent, respectively. The US is now Taiwan’s biggest investment target. Our government is now launching relevant plans in accordance with national development needs and the need to establish secure supply systems, and the Executive Yuan is taking comprehensive inventory of opportunities for Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation. Moving forward, close bilateral cooperation will allow us to expand US investment and procurement, facilitating balanced trade. Our government will also strengthen guidance and support for Taiwanese enterprises on increasing US investment, and promote the global expansion and growth of Taiwan’s industries. We will also boost Taiwan-US cooperation in tech development and manufacturing for AI and advanced semiconductors, and work together to maintain order in the semiconductor market, shaping a new era for our strategic economic partnership. Second, the development of our semiconductor industry. I want to emphasize that Taiwan, as one of the world’s most capable semiconductor manufacturing nations, is both willing and able to address new situations. With respect to President Trump’s concerns about our semiconductor industry, the government will act prudently, strengthen communications between Taiwan and the US, and promote greater mutual understanding. We will pay attention to the challenges arising from the situation and assist businesses in navigating them. In addition, we will introduce an initiative on semiconductor supply chain partnerships for global democracies. We are willing to collaborate with the US and our other democratic partners to develop more resilient and diversified semiconductor supply chains. Leveraging our strengths in cutting-edge semiconductors, we will form a global alliance for the AI chip industry and establish democratic supply chains for industries connected to high-end chips. Through international cooperation, we will open up an entirely new era of growth in the semiconductor industry. As we face the various new policies of the Trump administration, we will continue to uphold a spirit of mutual benefit, and we will continue to communicate and negotiate closely with the US government. This will help the new administration’s team to better understand how Taiwan is an indispensable partner in the process of rebuilding American manufacturing and consolidating its leadership in high-tech, and that Taiwan-US cooperation will benefit us both. Third, cross-strait relations. Regarding the regional and cross-strait situation, Taiwan-US relations, US-China relations, and interactions among Taiwan, the US, and China are a focus of global attention. As a member of the international democratic community and a responsible member of the region, Taiwan hopes to see Taiwan-US relations continue to strengthen and, alongside US-China relations, form a virtuous cycle rather than a zero-sum game where one side’s gain is another side’s loss. In facing China, Taiwan will always be a responsible actor. We will neither yield nor provoke. We will remain resilient and composed, maintaining our consistent position on cross-strait relations: Our determination to safeguard our national sovereignty and protect our free and democratic way of life remains unchanged. Our efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, as well as our willingness to work alongside China in the pursuit of peace and mutual prosperity across the strait, remain unchanged. Our commitment to promoting healthy and orderly exchanges across the strait, choosing dialogue over confrontation, and advancing well-being for the peoples on both sides of the strait, under the principles of parity and dignity, remains unchanged. Regarding the matters I reported to the public today, I have instructed our national security and administrative teams to take swift action and deliver results, working within a stable strategic framework and according to the various policies and approaches I just outlined. I have also instructed them to keep a close watch on changes in the international situation, seize opportunities whenever they arise, and address the concerns and hope of the citizens with concrete actions. My fellow citizens, over the past several years, Taiwan has weathered a global pandemic and faced global challenges, both political and economic, arising from the US-China trade war and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Through it all, Taiwan has persevered; we have continued to develop our economy, bolster our national strength, and raise our international profile while garnering more support – all unprecedented achievements. This is all because Taiwan’s fate has never been decided by the external environment, but by the unity of the Taiwanese people and the resolve to never give up. A one-of-a-kind global situation is creating new strategic opportunities for our one-of-a-kind Taiwanese people, bringing new hope. Taiwan’s foundation is solid; its strength is great. So as long as everyone remains steadfast in their convictions, is willing to work hand in hand, stands firm amidst uncertainty, and looks for ways to win within changing circumstances, Taiwan is certain to prevail in the test of our time yet again, for I am confident that there are no difficulties that Taiwan cannot overcome. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Industry Policy to set ambitious new Local Manufacturing targets

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 5 March 2025

    Released by: Minister for Industry and Trade

    The Minns Labor Government has today released the state’s first NSW Industry Policy to promote collaboration across industry, the innovation sector, and trade businesses, to give firms the confidence they need to invest and grow in NSW.

    Built around three connected missions – Housing, Net Zero & Energy Transition, and Local Manufacturing – the NSW Industry Policy sets out the Government’s approach to the NSW economy of the future.

    The policy will also set three ambitious new Local Manufacturing targets to position NSW manufacturing to capitalise on global market opportunities.

    The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better NSW with a thriving and diversified economy, and the NSW Industry Policy will provide a clear strategic direction across all Government agencies and programs.

    This approach will ensure industry support is clear and consistent, driving investment to help build a productive and resilient economy fit for the future.

    This first-of-a-kind policy, consolidates actions from the private sector, research institutions, and Government agencies to help address some of the most significant current and future challenges facing the state.

    The NSW Industry Policy was informed by extensive consultation with industry peak bodies, academia, and engagement with NSW Government agencies.

    It consolidates targets across numerous government initiatives and identifies key sectors to enable success across all industries.

    The Minns Labor Government will use regulation, procurement, planning, strategic land use, and infrastructure building to help drive change.

    The Government will also partner with industry and other stakeholders to deliver on skills and education, innovation and technology, and trade and investment, to help ensure the policy’s success. 

    A thriving economy in NSW benefits everyone, creates more and better jobs, improves the way we make and do things, and grows the prosperity and wellbeing of the people of NSW.

    Key to this is a diversified industry base and protecting our economy from future shocks which the three central missions will help address.

    Mission 1: NSW residents have access to safe, secure, affordable, well-designed and sustainable housing

    Housing affordability and availability has become one of the state’s biggest challenges.

    Due to the Liberal-National decade of delay, housing supply has not kept up with demand, contributing to increased pressure on prices and rents.

    To improve productivity and sustainability, put downward pressure on construction costs, and increase supply, the Minns Labor Government will focus on increasing the uptake of advanced technologies and innovation in the production and use of sustainable building materials.

    Innovative methods, including modular construction and the potential use of automation and robotics, will help the delivery of new homes.

    The Minns Labor Government is investing more than $8.5 billion to address the housing challenge through investment in social housing and homelessness services, planning reforms, and housing-enabling infrastructure and rental housing.

    Mission 2: NSW is a globally competitive clean energy, sustainable and low carbon economy

    NSW has the potential be a leading force in the global net zero economy, including through our abundance of critical minerals, which are essential components of clean energy and low carbon technologies.

    Developing sustainable industries that export goods and services to other decarbonising markets is critical to offsetting the decline in carbon-intensive industries.

    Renewable fuels are one opportunity for NSW to reduce emissions in hard-to-abate industries such as freight, while contributing to fuel security and growing regional NSW economies.

    The progression of a commercial green hydrogen sector would also produce low-emissions products and fuels for domestic trade purposes.

    The Minns Labor Government invested $3.5 billion in Climate Change and Energy initiatives in the 2024-25 Budget, including $3.1 billion in NSW’s Renewable Energy Zones, getting more clean energy into the grid while creating secure jobs for communities across the state.

    Mission 3: NSW is a dynamic and resilient economy supported by local manufacturing

    Manufacturing declined nationally over the past two decades.

    NSW manufacturers face significant challenges, including high costs and weak supply chains.

    In light of these challenges, growing local manufacturing will require NSW to leverage its comparative advantages including its skilled workforce, infrastructure, and abundant resources.

    In order to combat these challenges, the Minns Labor Government has set three new Local Manufacturing targets:

    Target 1: NSW Gross Value Added for manufacturing achieves real growth on average over the years to 2031.

    Target 2: NSW Gross Value Added for manufacturing achieves growth equal to, or greater than Gross State Product on average in the years between 2031 and 2040.

    Target 3: Achieve a 50% minimum local content target for future rolling transport stock by 2035.

    Advanced manufacturing technologies will also provide new opportunities for NSW to be globally competitive in complex and high-value products while NSW manufacturers can benefit from the global transition to net zero.

    Innovative new technologies in big data, artificial intelligence, quantum, virtual reality, and robotics are dramatically changing manufacturing processes, from design and prototyping to the actual fabrication of products.

    The Minns Labor Government has already committed over $600 million to drive investment in local manufacturing.

    This investment has helped manufacturing in NSW grow two consecutive years for the first time in two decades.

    Link to the NSW Industry Policy available here: https://www.investment.nsw.gov.au/why-nsw/resources/nsw-industry-policy/

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong:

    “The NSW Industry Policy details the Minns Labor Government’s vision and plans for the economic future of NSW and provides the strategic direction across all Government agencies and programs to drive industry investment.

    “This is a clear and stable policy approach to help guide private sector investment needed to increase jobs and productivity in NSW.

    “Addressing the housing crisis, supporting NSW through the transition to Net Zero, and growing our local manufacturing industry are among our key priorities.

    “NSW manufacturing grew in only two years in the 2010s under the previous Liberal-National Government.

    “With three new Local Manufacturing targets, we have demonstrated a real commitment to supporting local manufacturing to promote a dynamic, sustainable, and diversified economy.

    “We want to see a manufacturing industry that is innovative, productive, and boosts Australia’s sovereign capability.

    “Our ambition is clear: to build a better NSW and to make our state the most attractive place for people to live and work, and for local businesses to thrive.”

    Quotes attributable to State Secretary of the AMWU Brad Pidgeon:

    “This policy, particularly the three new Local Manufacturing targets, provides a huge boost for manufacturing workers right across the state.

    “We need an ambitious vision for and support for our local manufacturing industry and this policy provides just that.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Head of Australian Industry Group Helen Waldron:

    “The NSW Industry Policy provides the certainty and clarity that NSW businesses need to thrive in our rapidly changing economy.

    “Having a clear, overarching strategic vision from the NSW Government provides NSW industry with the tools it needs to attract and grow investment supported by Government policy settings.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India to Lead the World in Green Hydrogen: Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi

    Source: Government of India

    India to Lead the World in Green Hydrogen: Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi

    India’s First Fleet of Hydrogen-Powered Heavy Duty Trucks Trials Flagged off

    Posted On: 04 MAR 2025 6:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, today said that India is striving to  to becoming a global leader in green hydrogen production and utilization. Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of India’s first fleet of hydrogen-powered truck trials in New Delhi, the Minister highlighted the transformative vision behind the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) and the country’s strides towards energy independence.

    Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi emphasized that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has positioned itself at the forefront of the global green energy transition. With an allocation of ₹19,744 crore, the National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to establish India as a key player in hydrogen production, storage, and application across various sectors. He noted that India has already made remarkable progress, awarding 4,12,000 TPA of Green Hydrogen production and approving 3 GW of electrolyser manufacturing capacity per annum. Additionally, seven pilot projects have been launched across transportation, shipping, steel, and storage, alongside the publication of 88 standards to ensure safety and scalability.

    Looking ahead, the Minister outlined India’s ambitious 2030 targets, which include producing 5 million metric tons (MMT) of Green Hydrogen annually, installing 60-100 GW of electrolyser capacity, and adding 125 GW of renewable energy capacity dedicated to hydrogen production. These initiatives are expected to help reduce 50 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually, save ₹1 lakh crore in imports, and attract investments worth ₹8 lakh crore.

    Shri Joshi described the launch of hydrogen-powered truck trials as a radical shift in India’s mobility sector, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security. He noted that India is the third-largest oil consumer and fourth-largest crude oil importer, and hydrogen technology will play a key role in reducing this reliance. The first batch of three hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks will operate on the Faridabad–Delhi NCR and Ahmedabad–Surat–Vadodara routes. To support this transition, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) is establishing hydrogen refueling stations in Faridabad, Vadodara, Pune, and Balasore.

    The Minister also lauded the contributions of Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari, whose leadership in promoting hydrogen-powered mobility has driven innovation in the sector.

    Union Minister Shri Joshi also called upon all stakeholders to support the green energy revolution and emphasized that hydrogen will play a crucial role in shaping India’s energy future and urged industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to collaborate in making this vision a reality.

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    Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2108170) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Pralhad Joshi flags off first-ever trials of hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks from Tata Motors stable

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 MAR 2025 6:15PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark development towards India’s vision of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi flagged off the first-ever trials of hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks launched by Tata Motors in New Delhi, today.

    Speaking on the occasion Shri Nitin Gadkari said, “Hydrogen is the fuel of the future with immense potential to transform India’s transportation sector by reducing emissions and enhancing energy self-reliance. Such Initiatives will accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility in heavy-duty trucking, and move us closer to an efficient, low-carbon future. I congratulate Tata Motors for taking the lead in this significant step towards enabling hydrogen-powered green and smart transportation.”

    Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi said, “Hydrogen is an important fuel for India’s transition to a sustainable and zero-carbon future. The beginning of this trial is a significant step forward in showcasing the potential of green hydrogen in decarbonizing India’s transportation sector. This initiative, part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, reflects our commitment to driving innovation and achieving India’s energy independence while contributing to global climate goals. I applaud Tata Motors for taking the lead in this pioneering effort.”

    The historic trial, marks a significant step towards sustainable long-distance cargo transportation in the country, as Tata Motors underscores its commitment to leading the charge in sustainable mobility solutions, aligning with India’s broader green energy goals. The company was awarded the tender for this trial, which is funded by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. It marks a significant step forward in assessing the real-world commercial viability of using hydrogen powered vehicles for long distance haulage as well as setting-up the requisite enabling infrastructure for their seamless operation.

    The trial phase will span up to 24 months and involves deployment of 16 advanced hydrogen-powered vehicles with varying configurations and payload capacities. These trucks, equipped with new age Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (H2-ICE) and Fuel Cell (H2-FCEV) technologies, will be tested on India’s most prominent freight routes, including those around Mumbai, Pune, Delhi-NCR, Surat, Vadodara, Jamshedpur and Kalinganagar.

    Mr. Girish Wagh, Executive Director, highlighted Tata Motors’ preparedness saying, “Tata Motors is deeply honored to be at the forefront of driving India’s transformation towards greener, smarter, and sustainable mobility. As a company with a long-standing commitment to nation-building, we have continuously embraced innovation to develop mobility solutions that contribute to India’s growth and development. Today, with the commencement of these hydrogen truck trials, we are proud to further this legacy by pioneering the transition to clean, zero emission energy for long haul transportation. We are grateful to the Government of India for their visionary leadership in making this possible, and we remain committed to playing our part in building sustainable, future ready mobility solutions that will deliver better performance and efficiency.”

     

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    G.D. Hallikeri / Henry

    (Release ID: 2108148) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – On EU funding to Israel Aerospace Industries, Israel’s main defence supplier – E-002908/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Any research and innovation activities carried out under Horizon Europe[1] must have an exclusive focus on civil applications. During the execution of project financed via Horizon Europe grant agreements, all beneficiaries must ensure that the activities under the action comply with this horizontal rule. The Commission is closely monitoring the correct implementation of grant agreements signed under Horizon Europe.

    The projects in which Israel Aerospace Industries participates are of a purely civil nature. These include, inter alia, projects to develop hybrid electric regional aircrafts, to revolutionise liquid hydrogen aircraft refuelling at airport scale, and to advance material science applications to reduce the generation of waste and enhance the safety of workers[2].

    The Commission remains vigilant and is ready to take appropriate action should the Horizon Europe legal framework not be respected, notably regarding the exclusive focus on civil application as well as legally required behaviour of participants[3].

    However, the actions or behaviour of the State of Israel cannot be considered automatically attributable to its entities participating in Horizon Europe grants.

    • [1] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en
    • [2] https://cordis.europa.eu/search?q=frameworkProgramme%3D%27HORIZON%27%20AND%20(%27israel%20aerospace%20industries%27)&p=1&num=10&srt=Relevance:decreasing;
      https://dashboard.tech.ec.europa.eu/qs_digit_dashboard_mt/public/sense/app/dc5f6f40-c9de-4c40-8648-015d6ff21342/sheet/3bcd6df0-d32a-4593-b4fa-0f9529c8ffb0/state/analysis/select/Organisation%20PIC/999969315
    • [3] Article 19 of the Horizon Europe Regulation; Article 14 Horizon Europe Model Grant Agreement, OJ L95, 23.03.2022.
    Last updated: 4 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –