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Category: Renewable Hydrogen

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the end of carbon capture could spark a new industrial revolution

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Andres Clarens, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Virginia

    Steelmaking uses a lot of energy, making it one of the highest greenhouse gas-emitting industries.
     David McNew/Getty Images

    The U.S. Department of Energy’s decision to claw back US$3.7 billion in grants from industrial demonstration projects may create an unexpected opening for American manufacturing.

    Many of the grant recipients were deploying carbon capture and storage – technologies that are designed to prevent industrial carbon pollution from entering the atmosphere by capturing it and injecting it deep underground. The approach has long been considered critical for reducing the contributions chemicals, cement production and other heavy industries make to climate change.

    However, the U.S. policy reversal could paradoxically accelerate emissions cuts from the industrial sector.

    An emissions reality check

    Heavy industry is widely viewed as the toughest part of the economy to clean up.

    The U.S. power sector has made progress, cutting emissions 35% since 2005 as coal-fired power plants were replaced with cheaper natural gas, solar and wind energy. More than 93% of new grid capacity installed in the U.S. in 2025 was forecast to be solar, wind and batteries. In transportation, electric vehicles are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. automotive market and will lead to meaningful reductions in pollution.

    But U.S. industrial emissions have been mostly unchanged, in part because of the massive amount of coal, gas and oil required to make steel, concrete, aluminum, glass and chemicals. Together these materials account for about 22% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

    The global industrial landscape is changing, though, and U.S. industries cannot, in isolation, expect that yesterday’s means of production will be able to compete in a global marketplace.

    Even without domestic mandates to reduce their emissions, U.S. industries face powerful economic pressures. The EU’s new Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism imposes a tax on the emissions associated with imported steel, chemicals, cement and aluminum entering European markets. Similar policies are being considered by Canada, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the United Kingdom, and were even floated in the United States.

    The false promise of carbon capture

    The appeal of carbon capture and storage, in theory, was that it could be bolted on to an existing factory with minimal changes to the core process and the carbon pollution would go away.

    Government incentives for carbon capture allow producers to keep using polluting technologies and prop up gas-powered chemical production or coal-powered concrete production.

    The Trump administration’s pullback of carbon capture and storage grants now removes some of these artificial supports.

    Without the expectation that carbon capture will help them meet regulations, this may create space to focus on materials breakthroughs that could revolutionize manufacturing while solving industries’ emissions problems.

    The materials innovation opportunity

    So, what might emissions-lowering innovation look like for industries such as cement, steel and chemicals? As a civil and environmental engineer who has worked on federal industrial policy, I study the ways these industries intersect with U.S. economic competitiveness and our built environment.

    There are many examples of U.S. innovation to be excited about. Consider just a few industries:

    Cement: Cement is one of the most widely used materials on Earth, but the technology has changed little over the past 150 years. Today, its production generates roughly 8% of total global carbon pollution. If cement production were a country, it would rank third globally after China and the United States.

    Researchers are looking at ways to make concrete that can shed heat or be lighter in weight to significantly reduce the cost of building and cooling a home. Sublime Systems developed a way to produce cement with electricity instead of coal or gas. The company lost its IDP grant in May 2025, but it has a new agreement with Microsoft.

    Making concrete do more could accelerate the transition. Researchers at Stanford and separately at MIT are developing concrete that can act as a capacitor and store over 10 kilowatt-hours of energy per cubic meter. Such materials could potentially store electricity from your solar roof or allow for roadways that can charge cars in motion.

    How concrete could be used as a capacitor. MIT.

    Technologies like these could give U.S. companies a competitive advantage while lowering emissions. Heat-shedding concrete cuts air conditioning demand, lighter formulations require less material per structure, and energy-storing concrete could potentially replace carbon-intensive battery manufacturing.

    Steel and iron: Steel and iron production generate about 7% of global emissions with centuries-old blast furnace processes that use intense heat to melt iron ore and burn off impurities. A hydrogen-based steelmaking alternative exists today that emits only water vapor, but it requires new supply chains, infrastructure and production techniques.

    U.S. Steel has been developing techniques to create stronger microstructures within steel for constructing structures with 50% less material and more strength than conventional designs. When a skyscraper needs that much less steel to achieve the same structural integrity, that eliminates millions of tons of iron ore mining, coal-fired blast furnace operations and transportation emissions.

    Chemicals: Chemical manufacturing has created simultaneous crises over the past 50 years: PFAS “forever chemicals” and microplastics have been showing up in human blood and across ecosystems, and the industry generates a large share of U.S. industrial emissions.

    Companies are developing ways to produce chemicals using engineered enzymes instead of traditional petrochemical processes, achieving 90% lower emissions in a way that could reduce production costs. These bio-based chemicals can naturally biodegrade, and the chemical processes operate at room temperature instead of requiring high heat that uses a lot of energy.

    Is there a silver bullet without carbon capture?

    While carbon capture and storage might not be the silver bullet for reducing emissions that many people thought it would be, new technologies for managing industrial heat might turn out to be the closest thing to one.

    Most industrial processes require temperatures between 300 and 1830 degrees Fahrenheit (150 and 1000 degrees Celsisus for everything from food processing to steel production. Currently, industries burn fossil fuels directly to generate this heat, creating emissions that electric alternatives cannot easily replace. Heat batteries may offer a breakthrough solution by storing renewable electricity as thermal energy, then releasing that heat on demand for industrial processes.

    How thermal batteries work. CNBC.

    Companies such as Rondo Energy are developing systems that store wind and solar power in bricklike materials heated to extreme temperatures. Essentially, they convert electricity into heat during times when electricity is abundant, usually at night. A manufacturing facility can later use that heat, which allows it to reduce energy costs and improve grid reliability by not drawing power at the busiest times. The Trump administration cut funding for projects working with Rondo’s technology, but the company’s products are being tested in other countries.

    Industrial heat pumps provide another pathway by amplifying waste heat to reach the high temperatures manufacturing requires, without using as much fossil fuel.

    The path forward

    The Department of Energy’s decision forces industrial America into a defining moment. One path leads backward toward pollution-intensive business as usual propping up obsolete processes. The other path drives forward through innovation.

    Carbon capture offered an expensive Band-Aid on old technology. Investing in materials innovation and new techniques for making them promises fundamental transformation for the future.

    Andres Clarens receives funding from the National Science Foundation and the Alfred P Sloan Foundation.

    – ref. How the end of carbon capture could spark a new industrial revolution – https://theconversation.com/how-the-end-of-carbon-capture-could-spark-a-new-industrial-revolution-257894

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How do atoms form? A physicist explains where the atoms that make up everything around come from

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Stephen L. Levy, Associate Professor of Physics and Applied Physics and Astronomy, Binghamton University, State University of New York

    Many heavy atoms form from a supernova explosion, the remnants of which are shown in this image. NASA/ESA/Hubble Heritage Team

    Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

    How do atoms form? – Joshua, age 7, Shoreview, Minnesota

    Richard Feynman, a famous theoretical physicist who won the Nobel Prize, said that if he could pass on only one piece of scientific information to future generations, it would be that all things are made of atoms.

    Understanding how atoms form is a fundamental and important question, since they make up everything with mass.

    The question of where atoms comes from requires a lot of physics to be answered completely – and even then, physicists like me only have good guesses to explain how some atoms are formed.

    What is an atom?

    An atom consists of a heavy center, called the nucleus, made of particles called protons and neutrons. An atom has lighter particles called electrons that you can think of as orbiting around the nucleus.

    The electrons each carry one unit of negative charge, the protons each carry one unit of positive charge, and the neutrons have no charge. An atom has the same number of protons as electrons, so it is neutral − it has no overall charge.

    An atom consists of positively charged protons, neutrally charged neutrons and negatively charged electrons.
    AG Caesar/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    Now, most of the atoms in the universe are the two simplest kinds: hydrogen, which has one proton, zero neutrons and one electron; and helium, which has two protons, two neutrons and two electrons. Of course, on Earth there are lots of atoms besides these that are just as common, such as carbon and oxygen, but I’ll talk about those soon.

    An element is what scientists call a group of atoms that are all the same, because they all have the same number of protons.

    When did the first atoms form?

    Most of the universe’s hydrogen and helium atoms formed around 400,000 years after the Big Bang, which is the name for when scientists think the universe began, about 14 billion years ago.

    Why did they form at that time? Astronomers know from observing distant exploding stars that the size of the universe has been getting bigger since the Big Bang. When the hydrogen and helium atoms first formed, the universe was about 1,000 times smaller than it is now.

    And based on their understanding of physics, scientists believe that the universe was much hotter when it was smaller.

    Before this time, the electrons had too much energy to settle into orbits around the hydrogen and helium nuclei. So, the hydrogen and helium atoms could form only once the universe cooled down to something like 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius). For historical reasons, this process is misleadingly called recombination − combination would be more descriptive.

    The helium and deuterium − a heavier form of hydrogen − nuclei formed even earlier, just a few minutes after the Big Bang, when the temperature was above 1 billion F (556 million C). Protons and neutrons can collide and form nuclei like these only at very high temperatures.

    Scientists believe that almost all the ordinary matter in the universe is made of about 90% hydrogen atoms and 8% helium atoms.

    How do more massive atoms form?

    So, the hydrogen and helium atoms formed during recombination, when the cooler temperature allowed electrons to fall into orbits. But you, I and almost everything on Earth is made of many more massive atoms than just hydrogen and helium. How were these atoms made?

    The surprising answer is that more massive atoms are made in stars. To make atoms with several protons and neutrons stuck together in the nucleus requires the type of high-energy collisions that occur in very hot places. The energy needed to form a heavier nucleus needs to be large enough to overcome the repulsive electric force that positive charges, like two protons, feel with each other.

    The immense heat and pressure in stars can form atoms through a process called fusion.
    NASA/SDO

    Protons and neutrons also have another property – kind of like a different type of charge – that is strong enough to bind them together once they are able to get very close together. This property is called the strong force, and the process that sticks these particles together is called fusion.

    Scientists believe that most of the elements from carbon up to iron are fused in stars heavier than our Sun, where the temperature can exceed 1 billion F (556 million C) – the same temperature that the universe was when it was just a few minutes old.

    This periodic table shows which astronomical processes scientists believe are responsible for forming each of the elements.
    Cmglee/Wikimedia Commons (image) and Jennifer Johnson/OSU (data), CC BY-SA

    But even in hot stars, elements heavier than iron and nickel won’t form. These require extra energy, because the heavier elements can more easily break into pieces.

    In a dramatic event called a supernova, the inner core of a heavy star suddenly collapses after it runs out of fuel to burn. During the powerful explosion this collapse triggers, elements that are heavier than iron can form and get ejected out into the universe.

    Astronomers are still figuring out the details of other fantastic stellar events that form larger atoms. For example, colliding neutron stars can release enormous amounts of energy – and elements such as gold – on their way to forming black holes.

    Understanding how atoms are made just requires learning a little general relativity, plus some nuclear, particle and atomic physics. But to complicate matters, there is other stuff in the universe that doesn’t appear to be made from normal atoms at all, called dark matter. Scientists are investigating what dark matter is and how it might form.

    Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.

    And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.

    Stephen L. Levy receives funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. He is affiliated with CyteQuest, Inc.

    – ref. How do atoms form? A physicist explains where the atoms that make up everything around come from – https://theconversation.com/how-do-atoms-form-a-physicist-explains-where-the-atoms-that-make-up-everything-around-come-from-256172

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Clean energy future to be ‘built in Britain’

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Clean energy future to be ‘built in Britain’

    Government publishes its Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan to ensure the clean energy revolution is built in Britain.

    • Government publishes landmark plan to capture the immense jobs and growth opportunities of the clean energy economy
    • Plan will double down on Britain’s strengths as a coastal nation and scientific superpower, bringing jobs to industrial heartlands and coastal communities through Plan for Change
    • Further £700 million for Great British Energy to invest in clean energy supply chains and ensure the clean energy revolution is built in Britain

    Communities across Britain will benefit from good jobs and investment in the clean energy economy, as the government today (Monday 23 June) publishes its Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan to ‘build it in Britain’.

    Clean energy is the economic opportunity of the twenty-first century, and thanks to the government’s clean energy mission, investment is booming in the UK, with over £40 billion of private investment in clean energy announced since July.

    This landmark plan, developed with industry, trade unions, and workers across all regions of the country, sets the UK on a path to unleash the tidal wave of jobs and investment that clean energy can bring, with the government targeting at least a doubling of current investment levels across our frontier Clean Energy Industries to over £30 billion per year by 2035.

    It comes after the Spending Review confirmed the biggest programme of investment in homegrown energy in UK history – from launching a golden age of nuclear with funding to build Sizewell C nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast and small modular reactors, to £9.4 billion for carbon capture industries.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    This government is doubling down on Britain’s clean power strengths as we build this new era of clean energy abundance, helping deliver good jobs, energy security and lower household bills.

    The UK’s pitch is clear – build it in Britain. Power the world.

    Great British Energy Chief Executive Dan McGrail said:

    Great British Energy will help the UK win the global race for clean energy jobs and growth by investing in homegrown supply chains and ensuring key infrastructure parts are made here in Britain.

    We are working closely with businesses across the clean energy sector to invest in areas of strategic need and will get funding out as fast as possible to get new projects off the ground.

    As part of this plan, Great British Energy will have an additional £700 million to help build manufacturing facilities here at home for key components for the clean power revolution like floating offshore platforms, electric cables, and cutting-edge hydrogen infrastructure. This builds on Great British Energy’s initial £300 million for offshore wind supply chains, which the Energy Secretary confirmed last week has already catalysed a further £700 million from industry and The Crown Estate. With today’s additional funding, this brings total public and private funding in clean energy supply chains to £1.7 billion. This investment will unlock thousands of jobs, kickstarting growth in coastal communities and industrial towns, and secure a cleaner, more independent energy future for Britain.

    Lucy Yu, CEO and founder of the Centre for Net Zero, has also been announced as the government’s Clean Energy AI Champion – helping to drive the adoption of AI across the UK’s clean energy sector and accelerate the net zero transition.

    The Clean Industry Bonus – the financial reward scheme for offshore wind developers to invest in homegrown, cleaner supply chains – could also be expanded to more sectors, such as hydrogen and onshore wind. This will ensure clean energy investment is directed to regions that need it most, including traditional oil and gas communities, ex-industrial areas and coastal communities.

    The Industrial Strategy sets out how Britain’s strengths make it the natural home for clean power industries: as a coastal nation, a scientific and innovation superpower, with strengths in high-value manufacturing and a skilled energy workforce to match.

    Read the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan.

    Stakeholders

    Martin Pibworth, Chief Executive designate at SSE plc, said:

    The government’s industrial strategy is a welcome signal of long-term thinking and ambition – doubling down on homegrown energy is the right thing for security, resilience and affordability, making the most of the UK’s competitive geographical and technical advantages in renewables in particular.

    It’s exactly the kind of commitment that gives industry the confidence to deliver at pace and scale, and with important decisions on energy policy expected in the weeks ahead, we hope to see a continued focus on unlocking investment that drives growth.

    As the UK’s clean energy champion, SSE is investing £17.5 billion over 5 years to 2027 – building the infrastructure, creating high-quality jobs, supporting the supply chain and driving the innovation needed to deliver a net zero economy.

    Jon Butterworth, CEO of National Gas, said:

    The Industrial Strategy makes clear the scale of economic opportunity within the clean energy sector. As an essential enabler for all growth sectors, we warmly welcome the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan which will position Britain as a world leader in technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture.

    As Britain’s national gas network, we believe technologies like hydrogen and carbon capture will attract major investment, creating highly-skilled jobs across the country, as well as decarbonising our existing industries and bolstering energy security.

    We welcome the recent commitments and recognition shown by the government on the role of green gases and Britain’s national gas network and look forward to working in partnership to deliver the clean energy economy of the future.

    Steve Foxley, Chief Executive of the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, said:

    Wind energy is not only a critical enabler of Net Zero as the foundation of our future clean energy system but also a once-in-a-generation industrial growth opportunity. Through clear pathways from research and development to commercialisation and deployment, the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy will capitalise on our long history of innovation to not only attract critical manufacturing investment, creating thousands of highly skilled jobs the length and breadth of the country, but also ensure our energy security in an otherwise increasingly uncertain world.

    Chris Norbury, Chief Executive of E.ON UK

    We welcome the government’s bold ambition to put clean energy at the centre of the UK’s industrial strategy. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow the economy, strengthen energy security and create skilled, secure jobs across the country.

    Our £2 billion UK investment plan is already driving forward decarbonisation, digitalisation and green skills, including through our Net Zero Academy and over 1,300 apprenticeships since 2018.

    This strategy is a chance to accelerate that progress with the right clarity, long-term investment signals and genuine partnership between government, cities and industry. If we get this right, Britain can lead the world in clean energy and deliver real meaningful benefits to every household and business.

    Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) said:

    We welcome the government’s Clean Energy Sector Plan and its clear commitment to creating high-quality, secure jobs – not just any jobs.

    The explicit pledge to a new generation of good industrial jobs will strike a chord with workers from Teesside to Merseyside, many of whom felt left abandoned by the last government’s failure to act.

    We strongly support the launch of the UK’s first-ever Clean Energy Workforce Strategy – a vital recognition that workers are central to both our economy and the clean energy transition.

    By prioritising sectors like nuclear fusion, nuclear fission, and offshore wind, the government is showing a serious commitment to a balanced, resilient energy mix.

    The TUC backs the ambition to ‘Build it in Britain. Power the World’ and stands ready to help make it a reality.

    Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer at GMB:

    This strategy is a welcome shift, recognising that Britain’s clean energy future must be built here, by skilled workers in secure, union jobs. For too long, energy policy has meant offshoring opportunity and hollowing out industry.

    If delivered properly, this plan could help turn that tide. GMB will work to make sure these promises translate into real investment, real jobs, and a just transition that puts working people at the heart of our industrial future.

    Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary at Prospect union said:

    Boosting clean energy is not only an important mission in its own right, it is central to the success of every other sector. It is welcome to see the government doubling down on this mission, focusing investment on key technologies like renewables and nuclear energy, and recognising the key role that trade unions play as partners in this strategy.

    Securing the investment is important, but perhaps the biggest challenge in this area is around the workforce. The energy workforce is undergoing an unprecedented transition, which creates opportunities for many but also serious challenges that need to be addressed.

    Delivering on this strategy in a way which creates prosperity and supports jobs will require the government’s forthcoming energy workforce plan to be as ambitious as possible and fully backed by all parts of government.

    David Hall, VP, Power Systems, Schneider Electric, said:

    The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan will help to provide much needed certainty for businesses and investors. We welcome the recognition of electricity networks as a ‘foundational sector’ and look forward to working with the Government to develop an electricity networks growth plan.

    We also welcome the commitment to phasing out SF6 gas – a potent greenhouse gas – from switchgear. Regulatory certainty on this issue is key for manufacturers like Schneider Electric who are committed to invest in our domestic capabilities and support the decarbonisation of the grid.

    Schneider Electric is a key supplier of the electrical infrastructure powering the UK’s electricity networks. Over the past two years we have invested almost £50 million to further boost the UK’s domestic supply chain, including investing £42 million to build a brand new factory in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.

    Vattenfall’s UK Country Manager, Claus Wattendrup, said:

    The government is right to back clean energy as a growth engine for UK jobs and skills. Offshore wind already supports over 50,000 UK jobs and is scaling up fast through initiatives like the Offshore Wind Industrial Growth Plan, and we now await the government’s Onshore Wind strategy to help unlock even more investment, jobs, and energy security.

    We must avoid own-goals along the way, however: the benefits of district heating must not be overlooked, whereas zonal pricing in Great Britain risks future investments without cutting bills.

    Dhara Vyas, CEO of Energy UK, said:

    Energy UK welcomes the government’s new Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries sector plan, which rightly recognise the pivotal role energy will play across the whole economy, powering growth through digitalisation and electrification, boosting regional prosperity and delivering economic security and resilience.

    Stable, affordable energy prices will help ensure that the UK remains a competitive place to do business, and in an increasingly uncertain global operating environment, clean power will deliver energy security. Focussing on priority technologies where the UK has global expertise will deliver a strong competitive advantage for our businesses and economy.

    We know the investment necessary to decarbonise the economy will mostly be funded by the private sector. Clarity on government policy, removal of the barriers to investment and targeted support are all essential to meet this ambition.

    Jane Cooper, Deputy CEO of RenewableUK, said:

    Today’s industrial strategy identifies clean energy as one of the sectors with the highest growth opportunity, and we are going to see tens of billions of pounds of new investment in wind energy, grid and hydrogen in the coming years. With that new infrastructure comes a golden opportunity to secure new jobs, manufacturing, innovation and exports, in the growing industrial clusters across the UK, in areas like the Humber, Scotland, South Wales, the South West and Teesside.

    There are already nearly 2,000 companies in the UK who have benefitted from contracts to deliver work in the wind energy sector. Collectively, wind energy currently employs 55,000 people, a figure which has risen by a quarter from two years ago. By keeping a laser focus, as this Industrial Strategy does, on unlocking investment, remaining competitive, and supporting UK companies to innovate and grow, the offshore wind supply chain alone could boost the UK economy by £25 billion over the next decade.

    The opportunity and vision is there, now government needs to ensure they deliver on the critical aspects of this industrial strategy. Most notably for renewables, that means ensuring the next two contract for difference allocation round are as successful as possible, clearing large volumes of projects in a stable market framework to reduce costs. This is essential if we want to attract investment in the UK’s supply chain, skills and capabilities.

    Claire Mack OBE, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said:

    Placing clean energy at the heart of the new industrial strategy is a vote of confidence in the enormous economic growth potential of Scotland’s renewable energy industry and supply chain. The scale of opportunity is clear with sectors like offshore wind expected to generate £35 billion for the economy, helping to deliver good jobs and energy security.

    Scottish Renewables has been urging the UK government to be bold in removing barriers to investment and we’re pleased to see the ambition outlined in this strategy, including measures to build a grid fit for the future, drive competitive supply chains and grow exports.

    In the years ahead, success will be seen in the delivery of new clean energy infrastructure, thriving supply chains and skilled jobs across Scotland. Our industry stands ready to continue meeting that challenge head on.

    Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association (CCSA), said:

    We are delighted to see the Government’s continued commitment to Carbon Capture, Utilisation & Storage (CCUS), including Greenhouse Gas Removals (GGRs), as a frontier industry. This rightly positions CCUS and GGRs as a core pillar in delivering on three vital national objectives: reaching net zero, driving regional growth, and strengthening economic security.

    The UK’s CCUS industry stands ready to deliver and is pleased to see government’s prioritisation of cross-border CO₂ transport and storage networks in the North Sea, recognising the significant economic benefits for both UK and EU CCUS projects. This builds on the positive momentum from the recent UK-EU Summit – alongside the support confirmed in the Spending Review.

    Following these government commitments, a clear timetable for deployment is essential to secure investment, as well as investment in scaling up supply chains and growing the workforce needed to deliver at pace. With continued partnership between government and industry, CCUS can anchor a new era of sustainable industrial growth – one that revitalises communities, boosts energy resilience and ensures the UK leads in tackling climate change.

    Charlotte Lee, Chief Executive of the Heat Pump Association said:

    It is great to see heat pumps, and by association heating systems, being listed as a frontier industry within the plan and identified as one of six areas with the highest growth potential.

    With a new Heat Pump Investment Accelerator Competition confirmed, £13.2 billion recently announced for the Warm Homes Plan alongside a clear timeline for the introduction of the Future Homes Standard and a pledge to expand heat networks, it is clear the government are committed to enhancing the UK’s energy security by decarbonising heat from buildings.

    Whilst we await the detail within the Warm Homes Plan, this strategy sets clear intentions for the sector, and the HPA will continue to work closely with government to support their missions to break down barriers to investment and deliver nationwide growth.

    Clare Jackson, CEO at Hydrogen UK, said

    The UK can, and should, lead the world in hydrogen, creating jobs and skills, driving economic growth, and lowering emissions. With hydrogen as a key pillar, the Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan are welcome, positive steps forward to achieving that goal, with strong policy signals and funding to match.

    The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan in particular acknowledges hydrogen’s economic and export potential, and we look forward to working with the government as it puts these strategies into practice.

    Dr Emma Guthrie, CEO of the Hydrogen Energy Association (HEA) said:

    We welcome the publication of the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan and the clear recognition of hydrogen as a central pillar in the UK’s clean industrial future.

    The commitment to a dedicated hydrogen sector plan – 1 of 8 outlined across key growth industries – provides the clarity and direction that hydrogen investors, innovators and infrastructure providers urgently need.

    The extension of the Clean Industry Bonus to hydrogen is a particularly positive step, signalling that government recognises the role hydrogen can play in decarbonising heavy industry and strengthening energy resilience.

    The wider Industrial Strategy’s focus on reducing energy costs, accelerating grid connections and supporting frontier technologies reflects many of the priorities the hydrogen industry has long been calling for.

    We now look forward to working closely with government and industry to ensure this strategy delivers tangible outcomes – unlocking investment, creating skilled green jobs, and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

    Yselkla Farmer, CEO at BEAMA said:

    BEAMA’s members are pleased that our calls for improvements to industrial conditions have been recognised. This long term strategy distinguishes electricity networks and electric heat – uniquely, both represented by BEAMA – as critical sectors for the UK’s economic prosperity. They have the potential to deliver significant benefits to consumers and those seeking excellent employment opportunities in our domestic supply chains.

    We are well aligned with the government’s overall vision and objectives for our sector. We are looking forward to keeping the momentum up over the ten years of this strategy, working with government to bring tangible change and hugely increase investment in our members’ markets, with specific benefit to British manufacturing. In addition to some further measures from upcoming policy announcements, this strategy has the potential to build on our existing strengths for an exciting future.

    We are especially pleased to see the level of financial support being targeted for BEAMA sectors through GB Energy, the National Wealth Fund and the British Business Bank and our hope is this can help bring forward investment in UK manufacturing to supply the UK’s electrification needs across the grid and in homes. The decision to reduce electricity costs for the IS-8 manufacturing sectors is an incredibly welcome step as we strive to ensure we can compete for investment globally.

    Stuart Dossett, Senior Policy Adviser at Green Alliance, said: 

    As international events threaten to drive up the price of oil and send bills soaring once again, it is vital the government look at how to make the UK energy secure. If we’re successful in doubling the amount of investment in clean energy over the next ten years, as the government proposes today, this will provide the cheap, secure power we need for the rest of the economy to grow. The government is also right to focus on making sure more homegrown renewable energy results in cheaper electricity costs for businesses. 

    Darren Davidson, Head of UK, Siemens Energy said:

    Today’s Industrial Strategy announcement, a 10-year UK government plan focused on partnership with business, is welcome news. As one of the world’s leading energy technology companies Siemens Energy has invested significantly in the UK, and we already employ over 6,500 people working on energy projects across the regions.

    The new plan is a significant step forward in helping to create a coherent, strategic policy framework – including funding support – to help strengthen the UK’s industrial base, encourage job creation and deliver the energy transition.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India advances carbon pricing reforms to meet climate goals

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India is moving steadily towards establishing a comprehensive carbon pricing ecosystem aimed at meeting its climate and development commitments. With the formal adoption of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) in July 2024 and increasing alignment with global carbon markets, the country is setting the stage for a structured, rate-based Emissions Trading System (ETS).

    According to the World Bank’s State and Trends of Carbon Pricing 2025 report, India has emerged as a notable player among emerging economies—alongside Brazil and Türkiye—in advancing carbon pricing frameworks and climate finance tools.

    A Transition to Rate-Based Emissions Trading

    Unlike cap-based systems where total emissions are limited, India’s ETS follows a rate-based model. Here, emissions are not capped outright, but each entity is assigned a performance benchmark to limit net emissions relative to output. This model offers greater flexibility, particularly for fast-growing economies like India, by accommodating industrial expansion while maintaining climate discipline.

    The national ETS is set to initially cover nine energy-intensive sectors, including cement, steel, and power generation. Facilities outperforming benchmark emission levels will be issued tradable Credit Certificates. The scheme thus rewards efficiency while laying the groundwork for the Indian Carbon Market (ICM).

    India’s Ministry of Power approved eight methodologies on March 28, 2025, for generating voluntary carbon credits. These include renewable energy, green hydrogen production, industrial energy efficiency, and mangrove afforestation. This move supports the broader aim of transitioning from existing schemes such as the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) programme to a market-ready, credit-based system.

    Emerging Economies in Comparison

    Among peer economies, China operates a similar rate-based ETS focused on the power and heavy industrial sectors. Indonesia, too, follows a rate-based structure and has recently expanded its coverage. Brazil stands apart with a cap-based system, legislated in December 2024, covering all sectors barring agriculture. India’s carbon pricing framework is currently in the regulatory phase but is expected to become operational within the next fiscal year.

    Voluntary Carbon Market: Expanding the Scope

    India is developing a voluntary carbon market to include sectors currently outside the purview of the compliance mechanism. These encompass agriculture, afforestation, and clean cooking initiatives. The objective is to channel private capital towards climate-positive projects through transparent crediting mechanisms and market participation.

    The regulatory backbone for this voluntary market is provided by the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022. This law empowers the central government to issue carbon credit certificates, thereby legitimising both compliance and voluntary credit markets.

    Policy Support and Institutional Framework

    Several flagship initiatives are helping fortify India’s carbon market architecture. Among them is the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to produce 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. The mission is closely tied to the carbon credit mechanism through approved methodologies that recognise hydrogen’s potential as a low-emission fuel.

    Meanwhile, the PAT scheme—implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) since 2012—has achieved a 15–25% reduction in emissions intensity in targeted sectors. It will gradually integrate with the ETS, ensuring a seamless policy transition.

    India’s renewable energy ambitions remain central to its climate policy. The government aims to install 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power capacity by 2030, with carbon pricing acting as a complementary instrument to accelerate this shift.

    Market Readiness and Governance

    To strengthen governance, the National Steering Committee for the Indian Carbon Market (NSCICM) has been constituted. It includes representatives from key ministries, state governments, and industry stakeholders. The Committee is responsible for setting targets, issuing guidelines, and ensuring transparency in market operations. It also oversees the development of international trading mechanisms and verifies emission intensity reductions.

    The Bureau of Energy Efficiency, functioning under the Ministry of Power, plays a pivotal role as the technical arm of India’s climate governance. Since its inception in 2002, BEE has deployed a combination of regulatory and market-based tools to drive energy efficiency across sectors such as industry, buildings, transport, and agriculture.

    Enabling Behavioural Shifts

    India’s approach also includes behavioural interventions. Launched as a global movement at COP27, Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) encourages individuals to adopt climate-friendly daily habits. The mission aims to mobilise one billion people by 2028 and transform 80% of Indian villages and urban bodies into green communities.

    Complementing this is the Green Credit Programme (GCP), which was notified in October 2023 under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. GCP promotes tree plantation on degraded forest land, issuing digital credits to participants—ranging from individuals to corporations—who maintain the plantations over a decade. The scheme is designed to expand India’s green cover and incentivise voluntary environmental stewardship.

    Towards a Carbon-Conscious Economy

    India’s carbon pricing journey is firmly grounded in the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), ensuring that climate action remains equitable and context-specific. With institutional structures now in place and policy backing strong, the country is poised to lead by example in aligning economic development with environmental sustainability.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Powering Britain’s Future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Powering Britain’s Future

    Electricity costs for businesses – including potentially hundreds in Scotland – to be slashed as Industrial Strategy launched to unlock investment and new jobs

    More than 7,000 British businesses are set to see their electricity bills slashed by up to 25% from 2027, as the Government unveils its bold new Industrial Strategy today [Monday 23 June].

    The modern Industrial Strategy sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business by tackling two of the biggest barriers facing UK industry – high electricity prices and long waits for grid connections.

    British manufacturers currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the developed world while businesses looking to expand or modernise have faced delays when it comes to connecting to the grid.

    For too long these challenges have held back growth and made it harder for British firms to compete. Today’s announcement marks a decisive shift — with government stepping in to support industry and unlock the UK’s economic potential.

    From 2027, the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity costs by up to £40 per megawatt hour for over 7,000 electricity-intensive businesses in manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace and chemicals. Hundreds of Scottish businesses could be in line to benefit.

    These firms, which support over 300,000 skilled jobs, will be exempt from paying levies such as the Renewables Obligation, Feed-in Tariffs and the Capacity Market — helping level the playing field and make them more internationally competitive. Eligibility and further details on the exemptions will be determined following consultation, which will be launched shortly.

    The government is also increasing support for the most energy-intensive firms — like steel, chemicals, and glass — by covering more of the electricity network charges they normally have to pay through the British Industry Supercharger. These businesses currently get a 60% discount on those charges, but from 2026, that will increase to 90%. This means their electricity bills will go down, helping them stay competitive, protect jobs, and invest in the future.

    This will help around 500 eligible businesses in sectors such as steel, ceramics and glass reduce their costs and protect jobs in industries that are the backbone of our economy and will be delivered at no additional cost to the taxpayer. The support for steel manufacturing is crucial as it’s a critical enabling industry for Scotland’s world leading defence and renewable energy sectors.

    These reforms complement the government’s long-term mission for clean power, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependency on volatile fossil fuel markets.

    To ensure businesses can grow and hire without delay, the government will also deliver a new Connections Accelerator Service to streamline grid access for major investment projects — including prioritising those that create high-quality jobs and deliver significant economic benefits.

    We will work closely with the energy sector, local authorities, Scottish and Welsh Governments, trade unions, and industry to design this service, which we expect to begin operating at the end of 2025. New powers in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, currently before parliament, could also allow the Government to reserve grid capacity for strategically important projects, cutting waiting times and unlocking growth in key sectors.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on this government’s Plan for Change.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray today visited a new industrial development in East Lothian, on the site of a former coal-fired power station. The redevelopment site is partly funded by an £11 million UK Government investment, and includes the construction of a new interconnecter to take power from the Inchcape offshore wind farm to the National Grid. 

    Also joint Department for Business and Trade/HM Treasury Minister for Investment, Baroness Poppy Gustafsson, will meet senior figures from Dundee’s life sciences and tech, gaming, and creative sectors later. 

    Speaking ahead of his visit Mr Murray said:

    Scotland is rightly at the heart of the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy with our businesses and expertise integral to further creating jobs and economic growth through the eight sectors identified.

    Advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative Industries, defence, digital and technologies, financial services, life sciences and professional and business services, Scotland excels at them all. But we have the potential to go much further. And by slashing electricity costs for Scottish businesses, increasing business investment and cutting red tape the UK Government is helping turbocharge the economy, create jobs and put more money in the pockets of working Scots as part of our Plan for Change.

    We have a proud industrial heritage and with this new comprehensive 10 year strategy Scotland and the wider UK has an exciting future.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    The UK has some of the most innovative businesses in the world and our Plan for Change has provided them with the stability they need to grow and for more to be created.

    Today’s Industrial Strategy builds on that progress with a ten-year plan to slash barriers to investment. It’ll see billions of pounds for investment and cutting-edge tech, ease energy costs, and upskill the nation. It will ensure the industries that make Britain great can thrive. It will boost our economy and create jobs that put more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We’ve said from day one Britain is back in business under this government, and the £100 billion of investment we’ve secured in the past year shows our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people.

    Our Modern Industrial Strategy will ensure the UK is the best country to invest and do business, delivering economic growth that puts more money in people’s pockets and pays for our NHS, schools and military.

    Not only does this Strategy prioritise investment to attract billions for new business sites, cutting-edge research, and better transport links, it will also make our industrial electricity prices more competitive.

    Tackling energy costs and fixing skills has been the single biggest ask of us from businesses and the greatest challenge they’ve faced – this government has listened, and now we’re taking the bold action needed. Government and business working hand in hand to make working people better off is what this Government promised and what we will deliver.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

    For too long high electricity costs have held back British businesses, as a result of our reliance on gas sold on volatile international markets.

    As part of our modern industrial strategy we’re unlocking the potential of British industry by slashing industrial electricity prices in key sectors.

    We’re also doubling down on our clean power strengths with increased investment in growth industries from offshore wind to nuclear. This will deliver on our clean power mission and Plan for Change to bring down bills for households and businesses for good.

    The Supercharger and British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will be funded through reforms to the energy system. The government is reducing costs within the system to free up funding without raising household bills or taxes and intends to also use additional funds from the strengthening of UK carbon pricing, including as a result of linking with the EU carbon market.

    We have set out an intention to link emissions trading systems, as part of our new agreement with the European Union to support British businesses. Without an agreement to do this, British industry would have to pay the EU’s carbon tax.

    We intend to link our carbon pricing system with the EU’s, we will ensure that money stays in the UK—which allows us to support British companies and British jobs through these schemes.

    Building on the Spending Review and the recently announced 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, the Industrial Strategy is the latest step forward in our plans to deliver national renewal. It will include targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in our growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. This includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, at six locations to be chosen across the UK, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more, including  with the Scottish Government to support the Edinburgh-Glasgow Central Belt.

    • Strengthening existing “Industrial Strategy Zones” – in Scotland these are the Forth Green Freeport, Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, Glasgow City Region and the North East Scotland Investment Zones – with an enhanced offer of streamlined planning, better-targeted investment promotion, support for accessing concessionary finance and coordinated support on skills.

    • Delivering AI Growth Zones to attract investment in AI infrastructure in strategic locations across the UK, including Scotland, with support for planning, access to energy, and partnerships with the private sector.

    • Growing high-potential innovation ecosystems through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, with at least £30m for Scotland, building on UK-wide public R&D investment and Innovate UK’s joint action plans with devolved governments.

    • Identifying and securing the right financing for investment projects in Scotland with the National Wealth Fund, working with the Scottish National Investment Bank.  

    • Using a British Business Bank Cluster Champion in Glasgow City Region, with deep expertise and local knowledge, to coordinate investment-readiness programmes, strengthen financial networks, and connect high-potential firms to investors.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs.

    Dame Clare Barclay DBE, Chair of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council and President of Enterprise & Industry EMEA at Microsoft said:

    I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out a clear plan to back the UK’s growth driving sectors. It is particularly positive to see the strong focus on skills in areas such as engineering, technology and defence. Commitments such as £187 million for the TechFirst programme will ensure the UK has the skills it needs to support our growth industries and seize transformative opportunities like AI.

    Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive, CBI said:

    Today’s Industrial Strategy announcement is a significant leap forward in the partnership between government and business that sets us on the path to our shared goal of raising living standards across the country.  

    It sends an unambiguous, positive signal about the nation’s global calling card as well as the direction of travel for the wider economy for the next decade and beyond.

    The CBI has long been advocating for a comprehensive industrial strategy, based on the UK’s USP – the sectors and markets where we can compete to win on the global stage.

    More competitive energy prices, fast-tracked planning decisions and backing innovation will provide a bedrock for growth. But the global race to attract investment will require a laser-like and unwavering focus on the UK’s overall competitiveness. 

    Today marks the beginning of delivering this strategy in close partnership, at pace, and with a shared purpose. 

    Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO at Make UK said:

    British industry has been in desperate need for a government who understands our sector and had the strategic vision for a plan for growth. Today’s Industrial Strategy is a giant and much needed step forward taken by the Secretary of State who has seen the potential and provided the keys to help unlock it.

    Make UK has led the campaign for a new industrial strategy for many years, highlighting the three major challenges that were diminishing our competitiveness, hampering growth and frustrating productivity gains: a skills crisis, crippling energy costs and, an inability to access capital for new British innovators.

    The strategy announced today sets out plans to address all three of these structural failings. Clearly there is much to do as we move towards implementation but, this will send a message across the Country and around the world that Britain is back in business.

    Tufan Erginbilgic, Rolls-Royce CEO, said:

    The UK Government’s Industrial Strategy commitment to support our world-leading aerospace and nuclear industries shows long-term strategic foresight. Rolls-Royce’s highly differentiated technologies in gas turbines and nuclear capabilities- including SMRs and AMRs- are uniquely placed to deliver economic growth, skilled jobs and attract investment into the UK.

    Mike Hawes OBE, SMMT Chief Executive said:

    The publication of an Industrial Strategy – one with automotive at its heart – is the policy framework the sector has long-sought and Government has now addressed. Such a strategy – long-term, aligned to a trade strategy and supported by all of Government – is the basis on which the UK automotive sector can regain its global competitiveness. Making the UK the best place to invest now depends on implementation, and implementation at pace, because investment decisions are being made now against a backdrop of fierce competition and geopolitical uncertainty. The number one priority must be addressing the UK’s high cost of energy, enabling the sector to invest in the technologies, the products and the people that will give the UK its competitive edge. 

    Five sector plans have been published today:

    • Advanced Manufacturing – Backing our Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35 million, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight. Glasgow is a global force in advanced manufacturing –  home to the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District and globally competitive universities, the city region has strengths across defence, space and quantum. Edinburgh houses the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University and the Roslin Institute, which is a leading Agri-Tech research centre. 

    • Clean Energy Industries – Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Aberdeen-headquartered Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion. We are supporting Scottish clean energy industries with £200 million development funding to advance the Acorn Carbon Capture and Storage project, capitalising on expertise in the oil and gas sector around Aberdeen. Up to £185 million has been allocated to Scotland through the Clean Industry Bonus, unlocking up to £3.5 billion private sector investment in ports and high-tech components needed to build floating and fixed offshore wind farms. Aberdeen is a global energy capital boasting new investment in hydrogen, with its pioneering Energy Transition Zone repositioning the North East as a globally integrated energy cluster.  A new regional skills pilot for Aberdeen will also help ensure a strong local skills base to deliver these opportunities.

    • Creative Industries – Maximizing the value of our Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports. It includes a £30 million Games Growth Package to back the next generation of UK video games studios – a sector in which Scotland is world leading. Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee are centres for creative industries. The Edinburgh Festivals incubate creative talent, whilst Edinburgh Futures Institute drives innovation.

    • Digital and Technologies – Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as quantum technologies in Scotland. Scotland is home to two of the UK’s five new Quantum Hubs, with involvement in all five. Ten of the top 30 global semiconductor companies have operations in Scotland. Scotland is also home to cutting edge AI research network and R&D infrastructure – Edinburgh Genome Biofoundry and Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre. An up to £750m investment in the UK’s largest supercomputer at the University of Edinburgh sets a marker for our ambition for further growth in digital & technologies.

    • Professional and Business Services – Ensuring our Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas. Scotland’s financial services sector, second only to London, features a cutting-edge Fintech scene. Over 25% of Glasgow’s top tech firms are in financial & business services, attracting major firms such as Azets and RSM. This is anchored by a highly capable workforce, supported by a world-class skills ecosystem and universities.
       

    The Industrial Strategy will be published on GOV.UK later today.

    The Defence, Financial Services and Life Sciences sector plans will be published shortly.

    The 7,000 businesses are an indicative estimate of how many businesses could be in scope of the scheme. The full scope and eligibility of the scheme will be determined following consultation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India goes green: landmark tender to fuel fertilizers with clean ammonia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), a Navratna Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, has floated a landmark tender for the offtake of green ammonia. The move marks a significant step towards decarbonizing the fertilizer sector, which is currently dependent on fossil fuel-based hydrogen for ammonia production.

    The tender, issued on June 7, 2024, invites bids for the supply of 7.24 lakh tonnes of green ammonia annually. It covers 13 fertilizer plants across the country and falls under Tranche I of Mode 2A of the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Scheme. The last date for bid submissions is June 26, 2025.

    Ammonia is a key input in the production of urea and other nitrogen-based fertilizers. At present, it is largely produced using hydrogen derived from imported natural gas, leading to considerable carbon emissions. SECI’s new tender seeks to change this by using renewable energy to produce green hydrogen and, consequently, green ammonia. The aim is to enable low-emission, domestically sourced fertilizer production.

    To make the transition financially viable, the government is offering production-linked incentives under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. These include subsidies of ₹8.82 per kilogram in the first year, ₹7.06 in the second, and ₹5.30 in the third—amounting to a total support of ₹1,533.4 crore. A robust Payment Security Mechanism has also been put in place to safeguard suppliers from delays in payments by fertilizer companies.

    The tender process will follow SECI’s e-reverse auction model to ensure transparency and competitive price discovery. The contracts will run for a 10-year period, providing market certainty and encouraging long-term investment.

    India consumes approximately 17-19 million tonnes of ammonia annually, with more than 50% of its hydrogen requirement used in fertilizer production. However, most of this is derived from imported natural gas. SECI’s initiative is expected to drastically cut this dependence, reduce exposure to global gas price fluctuations, and lower the trade deficit. Producing green hydrogen emits less than 2 kg of CO₂ per kilogram, compared to up to 12 kg CO₂ from conventional grey hydrogen.

    The tender is seen as a solution to the “chicken-and-egg” problem that has stalled progress in the hydrogen sector. By aggregating demand and securing long-term offtake agreements, SECI is aiming to provide the necessary momentum to build a strong domestic green hydrogen and ammonia ecosystem. It is also expected to support investment in electrolyser manufacturing and other clean energy segments.

  • MIL-OSI Video: IAEA on Iran and Israel – Security Council briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Statement to the Security Council by Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
    —
    Attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused a sharp degradation in nuclear safety and security in Iran. Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur.

    The International Atomic Energy Agency has been monitoring closely the situation at Iran’s nuclear sites since Israel began its attacks a week ago. As part of its mission, the IAEA is the global nerve centre for information on nuclear and radiological safety, and we can respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.

    Based on information available to the IAEA, the following is the current situation at Iran’s nuclear sites.

    The Natanz enrichment site contains two facilities. The first is the main Fuel Enrichment Plant. Initial attacks on the 13th of June targeted and destroyed electricity infrastructure at the facility, including an electrical sub-station, the main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators. On the same day, the main cascade hall appears to have been attacked using ground-penetrating munitions.

    The second facility at Natanz is the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant. It consists of aboveground and underground cascade halls. On the 13th of June the above-ground part was functionally destroyed and the strikes on the underground cascade halls were seriously damaging.

    The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact on the population or the environment.

    However, within the Natanz facility there is both radiological and chemical contamination. It is possible that Uranium isotopes contained in Uranium Hexafluoride, Uranyl Fluoride and Hydrogen Fluoride are dispersed inside the facility. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if inhaled or ingested. This risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory devices. The main concern inside the facility is chemical toxicity.

    Fordow is Iran’s main enrichment location for enriching uranium to 60%. The Agency is not aware of any damage at Fordow at this time.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in last Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor-fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction.

    No increase of off-site radiation levels was reported. As in Natanz, the main concern is chemical toxicity.

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor under construction in Arak, was hit on the 19th of June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, no radiological consequence is expected. The nearby Heavy Water Production Plant is also assessed to have been hit, and similarly no radiological consequence is expected.

    As stated in the IAEA’s update of the 18th of June, at the Tehran Research Center, one building, where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested, was hit. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings, where different centrifuge components were manufactured, were destroyed. There was no radiological impact, internally or externally.

    Let me now refer to the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. This is the nuclear site in Iran where the consequences of an attack could be most serious. It is an operating nuclear power plant and as such it hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. Countries of the region have reached out directly to me to express their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and completely clear: In case of an attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment.

    Similarly, a hit that disabled the only two lines supplying electrical power to the plant could cause its reactor’s core to melt, which could result in a high release of radioactivity to the environment. In their worst-case, both scenarios would necessitate protective actions, such as evacuations and sheltering of the population or the need to take stable iodine, with the reach extending to distances from a few to several hundred kilometres. Radiation monitoring would need to cover distances of several hundred kilometres and food restrictions may need to be implemented.

    Any action against the Tehran Nuclear Research Reactor could have severe consequences, potentially for large areas of the city of Iran and its inhabitants. In such a case, protective actions would need to be taken.

    I will continue to provide public updates about the developments at all these sites and their possible health and environmental consequences.
    —
    Full transcript of the statement: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1w/k1wefaw024

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWyztUGEL8U

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI applications are producing cleaner cities, smarter homes and more efficient transit

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mohammadamin Ahmadfard, Postdoctoral Fellow, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is quietly transforming how cities generate, store and distribute energy, acting as the invisible conductor that orchestrates cleaner, smarter and more resilient cities.

    By integrating renewables — from solar panels and wind turbines to geothermal grids, hydrogen plants, electric vehicles and batteries — AI can enable cities to manage diverse energy sources as a single, intelligent system.

    One striking example is the Oya Hybrid Power Station in South Africa. Here, AI-driven controls seamlessly co-ordinate solar, wind and battery storage to deliver reliable power to up to 320,000 households. Using AI makes this kind of integration not only possible, but dramatically more efficient.

    Recent research shows AI can also optimize how batteries, solar and the grid interact in buildings. A 2023 study found that deep learning and real-time data helped a boarding school in Turin, Italy increase low-cost energy purchases and cut its electricity bill by more than half.

    Cleaner, smarter energy grids

    AI models are increasingly able to predict weather with greater precision. These predictions allow electric grid operators to plan hours ahead, storing excess energy in batteries or adjusting supply to meet demand before a storm or heatwave hits.

    Using AI to respond strategically to weather is a game-changer. In Cambridge, England, a system called Aardvark uses satellite and sensor data to generate rapid, accurate forecasts of sun and wind patterns.

    Unlike traditional supercomputer-driven weather models, Aardvark’s AI can deliver precise local forecasts in minutes on an ordinary computer. This makes advanced weather prediction more accessible and affordable for cities, utilities and even smaller organizations — potentially transforming how communities everywhere plan for and respond to changing weather.

    AI models are increasingly able to predict weather with greater precision, allowing electric grid operators to plan ahead, storing excess energy in batteries or adjusting supply to meet demand before a storm or heat wave hits.
    (Shutterstock)

    AI for smarter district heating and cooling

    In Munich, Germany, AI is improving geothermal district heating by using underground sensors to monitor temperature and moisture levels in the ground.

    The collected data feeds into a digital simulation model that helps optimize network operations. In more advanced versions, during winter cold snaps, such systems can suggest lowering flow to underused spaces like half-empty offices and boosting heat where demand is higher, such as in crowded apartments.

    This intelligent, self-optimizing approach extends the life of equipment and delivers more warmth with the same energy input.

    This is a breakthrough with enormous potential for cities in cold climates with established geothermal networks, such as Winnipeg in Canada and Iceland’s Reykjavik.

    Although these cities have not yet adopted AI-driven monitoring systems, they could benefit from AI’s real-time improvements in efficiency, comfort and energy savings during harsh winters — a principle that holds true wherever geothermal district heating and cooling exists.

    Inside the home, AI-managed smart climate systems can factor in how many people are in each room, which appliances are in use, how much natural sunlight each space receives.
    (Shutterstock)

    Smart buildings

    Inside the home, AI-managed smart climate systems can factor in how many people are in each room, which appliances are in use, how much natural sunlight each space receives and how much electricity or heat a home’s solar panels generate throughout the day.

    Based on this, AI determines how to heat or cool rooms efficiently, and can transfer energy from one space to another, balancing comfort with minimal energy use.

    Coastal cities and those in wind-heavy regions are using AI in other creative ways. In Orkney, Scotland, excess wind and tidal energy are converted into green hydrogen. Instead of letting that surplus power go to waste, an AI system called HyAI controls when to generate hydrogen based on wind forecasts, electricity prices and how full the hydrogen storage tanks are.

    When winds are strong at night and electricity is cheap, the AI can divert surplus power to produce hydrogen and store it for later use. On calmer days, that stored hydrogen can power fuel cells or buses.

    Energy storage

    AI is transforming energy storage into a smart, revenue-generating force. In Finland, a startup called Capalo AI has developed Zeus VPP, an AI-powered virtual power plant that aggregates distributed batteries from homes, businesses and other sites.

    Zeus VPP uses advanced forecasting and AI algorithms to decide when batteries should charge or discharge, factoring in energy prices, local consumption and weather forecasts. This enables battery owners to earn revenue by participating in electricity markets, while also supporting grid stability and making better use of renewable energy.

    Utility companies are also using AI to monitor everything from high-voltage transmission lines to neighbourhood transformers, dramatically increasing reliability.

    AI-powered dynamic line rating adjusts how much electricity a line can carry in real time, boosting capacity by 15 to 30 per cent when conditions allow. This helps utilities maximize the use of existing infrastructure instead of relying on costly upgrades.

    At the local level, AI analyzes smart metre data to predict which transformers are overheating due to rising EV and heat pump use.

    By forecasting these stress points, utilities can proactively upgrade equipment before failures happen — a shift from reactive to predictive maintenance that makes the grid stronger and cities more resilient.

    AI-powered public transit and mobility

    Transportation innovation is becoming part of the energy solution, with AI at the centre of this transformation. In New York City, energy company Con Edison has installed major battery storage systems to help manage peak electricity demand and reduce reliance on polluting peaker plants, which supply energy only during high-demand periods.

    More broadly, Con Edison is deploying advanced AI-powered analytics software across its electric grid — optimizing voltage, enhancing reliability and enabling predictive maintenance. Together, these efforts show how combining energy storage and AI-driven analytics can make even the world’s busiest cities more resilient and efficient.

    AI is also powering “vehicle-to-grid” innovations in California, where an AI-driven platform manages electric school buses that can supply stored energy back to the grid during periods of high demand.

    By carefully managing when buses charge and discharge, these systems help keep the grid reliable and ensure vehicles are ready for their daily routes. As this technology expands, parked electric vehicles could serve as valuable backup resources for the electricity system.

    Transportation innovation is becoming part of the energy solution.
    (Shutterstock)

    AI for clean energy initiatives

    AI is rapidly transforming cities by revolutionizing how energy is used and managed. Google, for example, has slashed cooling energy at its data centres by up to 40 per cent using AI that fine-tunes fans, pumps and windows more efficiently than any human operator.

    Organizations like the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), in collaboration with NVIDIA, Microsoft and others, have launched the Open Power AI Consortium, which is creating open-source AI tools for utilities worldwide.

    These tools will enable even the most resource-constrained cities to deploy advanced AI capabilities, without having to start from scratch, helping to level the playing field and accelerate the global energy transition.

    The result is not just cleaner air and lower energy bills, but a path to fewer blackouts and more resilient homes.

    Mohammadamin Ahmadfard receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Mitacs Inc. for his postdoctoral research at Toronto Metropolitan University.

    – ref. AI applications are producing cleaner cities, smarter homes and more efficient transit – https://theconversation.com/ai-applications-are-producing-cleaner-cities-smarter-homes-and-more-efficient-transit-256291

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Opening remarks by the IAEA Director General at the meeting of the Board of Governors

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –

    (Prepared for delivery at a Council meeting)

    Madam Chairperson,

    Following Friday’s attacks on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran, the military conflict continues. As I reported to the IAEA Board of Governors and then to the UN Security Council last Friday, the IAEA is monitoring the situation very closely. Since the beginning of the events, our Incident and Emergency Centre has been working 24/7 to update the status of Iranian nuclear facilities and radiation levels at the sites in an ongoing exchange of information with the Iranian authorities.

    The IAEA is ready to respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency within an hour.

    Based on the information available to the IAEA, the following situation currently exists at Iranian nuclear facilities.

    Following the strike on the Natanz fuel enrichment plant site, which destroyed the above-ground portion of the experimental fuel enrichment facility, one of the facilities used by Iran to produce uranium enriched to 60% U-235, no further damage was reported at the site.

    The facility’s electrical infrastructure, including an electrical substation, the main electrical systems building, and emergency and backup generators, was also destroyed.

    There are no signs of physical impact on the underground centrifuge cascade shop, which contains part of the experimental fuel enrichment facility and the main fuel enrichment facility. At the same time, the power outage in the centrifuge cascade shop could have damaged the centrifuges located there.

    Radiation levels outside the Natanz site remain unchanged and within normal limits, indicating no external radiological impact on the population or the environment as a result of this event.

    The Natanz facility site contains both radiological and chemical contamination. Given the type of nuclear material present at the facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed throughout the facility. The radiation, consisting predominantly of alpha particles, poses a serious hazard if uranium is inhaled or ingested. However, this risk can be effectively mitigated by appropriate protective measures, such as the use of respiratory protection while inside the affected facilities. Of greatest concern to the facility itself is the chemical toxicity of uranium hexafluoride and the fluorides formed upon contact with water.

    No damage was reported at the Fordow enrichment plant site or the heavy water reactor under construction at Khondab. The Bushehr nuclear power plant and the Tehran research reactor were not targets of the recent strikes and were not damaged in this regard.

    Four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear facility were damaged in Friday’s strikes: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, a fuel fabrication plant for the Tehran reactor, and a plant under construction to convert uranium hexafluoride into uranium dioxide powder.

    As at Natanz, radiation levels outside the facility remain unchanged.

    I confirm the cooperation and exchange of information between the Iranian authorities and the IAEA. In these tense and challenging circumstances, it is essential for the IAEA to receive timely and regular technical information about the facilities and their associated sites. This information is essential to promptly inform the international community and to ensure an effective response and assistance in the event of any emergency in Iran. Without information, we cannot accurately assess the radiological conditions and potential impacts on the population and the environment, and we cannot provide the necessary assistance.

    The Agency is and will continue to be present in Iran. Safeguards inspections will continue in Iran as soon as it is safe to do so, as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under the NPT.

    I remain in touch with the inspectors in Iran; their safety is our top priority and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure that they are not harmed.

    I stand ready to travel immediately and work with all relevant parties to ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency’s mandate, including by deploying, where necessary, Agency nuclear security and safety experts to complement our safeguards inspectors in Iran.

    Madam Chairperson,

    Military escalation threatens human lives, increases the likelihood of a radiological release with serious consequences for the population and the environment, and delays the critical task of a diplomatic settlement to provide long-term assurance that Iran will not acquire nuclear weapons.

    In accordance with the objectives of the IAEA and its Statute, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation.

    Last week, the Council made an important decision resolution on Iran’s safeguards obligations. The resolution contains important provisions on proliferation and underlines support for a diplomatic solution to the challenges posed by Iran’s nuclear programme. IAEA Member States can play a vital and active role in promoting an urgent shift away from military escalation and towards diplomacy. I urge you to use all available diplomatic means and assure you of my continued readiness to contribute, including through an early visit to Iran to assess the situation and ensure nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation in that country.

    There is probably no goal more important or more widely supported than that of ensuring that humanity uses the enormous energy of the atom for good, not destruction. For over 60 years, the IAEA has played a central role in helping its Member States translate this desire into real progress.

    Given the IAEA’s clear mandate and unique resources, I reaffirm the Agency’s readiness to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts to ensure transparency, nuclear safety and security, and achieve a peaceful resolution of issues related to nuclear activities in Iran.

    Dear colleagues,

    For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two IAEA Member States, in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being threatened.

    As in the case of a military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, the IAEA will not stand aside.

    We can and will act within our statutory mandate to help prevent a nuclear accident that could lead to unpredictable radiological consequences. For the IAEA to act, constructive and professional dialogue must begin, and this must happen as soon as possible.

    As insurmountable as this task may seem in the context of an ongoing military conflict, we have already demonstrated that even in such circumstances, technical assistance, provided in a spirit of respect and impartiality, can benefit everyone without exception.

    I intend to continue my ongoing engagement with the conflicting parties to find the most appropriate way to achieve this goal, and I ask Member States to support me in this effort. I count on the Council, and especially the Member States that are best placed to do so, to respond to this call to assist the IAEA in helping those who are trading blows today to prevent the worst from happening. There is always a time and a place for diplomacy.

    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 Russia: Update on events in Iran

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) continues to closely monitor and assess the situation in relation to the Israeli attacks on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran, issuing frequent public updates on developments and their possible impact on the population and the environment, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said.

    Since the outbreak of hostilities nearly a week ago, the IAEA has reported damage at some of these facilities, including nuclear sites located in Arak, Isfahan, Natanz and Tehran, and their potential radiological consequences.

    In his statementAt the meeting of the Board of Governors on 13 June, the morning of the day that Iranian nuclear facilities were targeted, the Director General recalled numerous General Conference resolutions on the issue of military attacks on nuclear facilities, including GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which, inter alia, state that “any armed attack or threat of attack against nuclear facilities used for peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, international law and the Statute of the Agency”.

    He also mentioned that, moreover, the IAEA has consistently emphasized that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities may result in radioactive releases with serious consequences both within and beyond the State that is attacked”, as noted in resolution GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    Later, at a special session of the Governing Council on 16 June 2025, in itsstatement The Director General stressed that “for the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two IAEA Member States, in which nuclear installations are being targeted and nuclear safety is being threatened. As in the case of the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, the IAEA will not stand aside.”

    “The IAEA is monitoring the situation very closely,” he added. “The IAEA is ready to respond within an hour to any nuclear or radiological emergency.”

    It was the third summary statement by the Director-General on the situation in Iran in four days after he spokeat the meeting of the Board of Governors on June 13 andagain— at the United Nations Security Council later that day. The agency also regularly posts updates on its official X account.

    Director General Grossi said IAEA inspectors remain present in Iran and are ready to visit nuclear sites when possible, even though the Agency’s staff numbers have been partially reduced given the security situation.

    He also added: “The Agency is and will continue to be present in Iran. As soon as it is safe to do so, safeguards inspections will continue in Iran, as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) Safeguards Agreement.”

    Calling on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation, Director General Grossi stressed that he “stands ready to travel immediately and engage with all relevant parties to ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency’s mandate, including by deploying, where necessary, Agency nuclear security and safety experts to complement our safeguards inspectors in Iran.”

    “Military escalation threatens human lives, increases the likelihood of a radiological release with serious consequences for the population and the environment, and delays the critical task of a diplomatic solution to provide long-term assurance that Iran will not acquire nuclear weapons,” he said.

    The IAEA stands ready to act within its statutory mandate to help prevent a nuclear accident that could lead to serious radiological consequences, he said, adding: “For the IAEA to act, constructive and professional dialogue must begin, and this must happen as soon as possible.”

    Based on the information available, the IAEA has reported on the situation at nuclear facilities and sites in Iran, including the following developments.

    One of the targets of the June 13 strikes was the Natanz fuel enrichment plant, which destroyed the above-ground portion of the experimental fuel enrichment facility, one of the facilities Iran used to produce uranium enriched to 60% U-235.

    The facility’s electrical infrastructure, including the electrical substation, the main power supply building, and emergency and backup generators, was also destroyed. A power outage to the underground centrifuge cascade hall could have damaged the centrifuges there, CEO Grossi told the Council in a speech on June 16.

    Later this week, the IAEA issued an update, reporting that, following its ongoing analysis of high-resolution satellite imagery obtained after the strikes on the Natanz site, the Agency had identified additional indicators that point to direct impacts on the underground enrichment facilities at Natanz as well.

    According to Director General Grossi, there are no radiological consequences outside the Natanz site, but there is limited radiological and chemical contamination in the enrichment plant premises.

    “The contamination is limited to the perimeter of this facility. There was no radiological impact on the external environment,” he said.

    He explained that given the type of nuclear material present at the Natanz facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed throughout the facility. The radiation, which consists predominantly of alpha particles, poses a serious hazard if uranium is inhaled or ingested. However, this risk can be effectively mitigated by appropriate protective measures, such as the use of respiratory protection when inside the affected facilities. The greatest concern for the facility itself is the chemical toxicity of uranium hexafluoride and the fluorides formed when in contact with water.

    At the Isfahan nuclear facility, Friday’s strikes damaged four buildings: the central chemical laboratory, the uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel fabrication plant, and the facility under construction to convert uranium hexafluoride into enriched uranium metal. As in Natanz, radiation levels outside the Isfahan facility remain unchanged.

    On June 18, the IAEA said in an update that it had information that two Iranian centrifuge-related facilities were targeted by the attacks: the TESA facility in Karaj and the Tehran Research Center. Both locations were previously subject to IAEA monitoring and verification measures under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

    One building was damaged at the Tehran Research Center, where rotors for advanced centrifuges were manufactured and tested. In Karaj, two buildings were destroyed, which housed workshops for manufacturing various centrifuge components.

    On 19 June, the heavy water research reactor under construction at Hondaba was hit. Since the reactor was not operational and did not contain nuclear material, Director General Grossi reported that there were no radiological consequences. Although damage to the nearby heavy water plant was initially not visible, the Agency now assesses that major structures, including the distillation plant, were damaged.

    To date, no damage has been reported at other Iranian nuclear facilities.

    Although no major radiological incidents have occurred as a result of these attacks so far, Director General Grossi emphasized the possible risks from a nuclear safety perspective.

    “There are significant quantities of nuclear material in Iran in different places, which means that the possibility of a radiological accident with the dispersion of radioactive substances and particles in the atmosphere really does exist,” he said.

    Director General Grossi also stressed the importance of cooperation and information exchange with Iranian authorities.

    “In this tense and challenging environment, it is of utmost importance for the IAEA to receive timely and regular technical information on nuclear facilities and their respective sites. This information is necessary to promptly inform the international community and ensure an effective response and assistance in the event of any emergency in Iran,” he explained, adding that he is in constant contact with other countries in the region.

    This update was first published on IAEA.org in English on June 19.

    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 Nations: Update on Developments in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is continuing to closely monitor and assess the situation regarding the Israeli attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran, providing frequent public updates about developments and their possible consequences for human health and the environment, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Since the military attacks began almost a week ago, the IAEA has been reporting on damage at several of these facilities, including at nuclear-related sites located in Arak, Esfahan, Natanz and Tehran, and their potential radiological impact.

    In his statement to the Board of Governors on 13 June, the morning of the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Director General recalled the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    He also stated that, furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    Later at the special session of the Board of Governors on 16 June 2025, in his statement, the Director General emphasized that, “For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idly by during this conflict.”

    “The IAEA is monitoring the situation very carefully,” he said. “The IAEA is ready to respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.”

    It was the Director General’s third comprehensive statement in four days about the situation in Iran, following the statement to the Board on 13 June and one to the United Nations Security Council later the same day. In addition, the Agency has provided regular updates on its official X account.

    IAEA inspectors remain present in Iran, ready to be deployed at nuclear sites when possible, even though the number of Agency staff has been reduced somewhat in light of the security situation, Director General Grossi said.

    He added: “The Agency is and will remain present in Iran. Safeguards inspections in Iran will continue as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.”

    Calling for maximum restraint to avoid further escalation, Director General Grossi stressed that he was ready “to travel immediately and engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.”

    “Military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon,” he said.

    The IAEA stands ready to act within its statutory mandate to assist in preventing a nuclear accident that could result in grave radiological consequences, he said, adding: “For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue will have to ensue, and this must happen sooner rather than later.”

    Based on information available to it, the IAEA has been reporting on the situation at the nuclear facilities and sites in Iran, including:

    The Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant site was targeted in attacks on 13 June that destroyed the above-ground part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, one of the facilities at which Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235.

    Electricity infrastructure at the plant – including an electrical sub-station, a main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators – was also destroyed. The loss of power to the underground cascades may have damaged the centrifuges there, Director General Grossi told the Board on 16 June.

    Later this week, the IAEA issued an update, saying that based on continued analysis of high- resolution satellite imagery collected after the attacks on the nuclear site at Natanz, the Agency has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts also on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz.

    There has been no radiological impact outside the Natanz site, but circumscribed radiological and chemical contamination inside the enrichment facility, Director General Grossi reported.

    “It was limited to this facility. There was no radiological impact externally,” he said.

    Considering the type of nuclear material at the Natanz facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed inside the facility, he said. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested. However, this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the affected facilities. The main concern inside the facility is the chemical toxicity of the uranium hexafluoride and the fluoride compounds generated in contact with water.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction. As in Natanz, off-site radiation levels remain unchanged at the Esfahan nuclear site.

    On 18 June, the IAEA said in an update that it had information that two centrifuge production facilities in Iran – the TESA Karaj workshop and the Tehran Research Center – were hit. Both locations were previously under IAEA monitoring and verification under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

    At the Tehran Research Center, one building was hit where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings were destroyed where different centrifuge components were manufactured.

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor, under construction, was hit on 19 June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, Director General Grossi said no radiological consequence was expected. While damage to the nearby Heavy Water Production Plant was initially not visible, it is now assessed that key buildings at the facility were damaged, including the distillation unit.

    At present, no damage has been observed at Iran’s other nuclear sites.

    While there so far has been no major radiological incident as a result of the attacks, Director General Grossi stressed the possible nuclear safety and security risks.

    “There is a lot of nuclear material in Iran in different places, which means that the potential for a radiological accident with the dispersion in the atmosphere of radioactive materials and particles does exist,” he said.

    Director General Grossi also emphasized the importance of cooperating and exchanging information with the Iranian authorities.

    “Amid theses challenging and complex circumstances, it is crucial that the IAEA receives timely and regular technical information about the nuclear facilities and their respective sites. This information is needed to promptly inform the international community and ensure an effective response and assistance to any emergency situation in Iran,” he said, adding that he was also in constant contact with other countries in the region.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IAEA Director General Grossi’s Statement to UNSC on Situation in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    (As prepared for delivery)

    Attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused a sharp degradation in nuclear safety and security in Iran. Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur.

    The International Atomic Energy Agency has been monitoring closely the situation at Iran’s nuclear sites since Israel began its attacks a week ago. As part of its mission, the IAEA is the global nerve centre for information on nuclear and radiological safety, and we can respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.

    Based on information available to the IAEA, the following is the current situation at Iran’s nuclear sites. Which I offer as a follow up to my most recent report to this Security Council.

    The Natanz enrichment site contains two facilities. The first is the main Fuel Enrichment Plant. Initial attacks on the 13th of June targeted and destroyed electricity infrastructure at the facility, including an electrical sub-station, the main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators. On the same day, the main cascade hall appears to have been attacked using ground-penetrating munitions.

    The second facility at Natanz is the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant. It consists of aboveground and underground cascade halls. On the 13th of June the above-ground part was functionally destroyed and the strikes on the underground cascade halls were seriously damaging.

    The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact on the population or the environment.

    However, within the Natanz facility there is both radiological and chemical contamination. It is possible that Uranium isotopes contained in Uranium Hexafluoride, Uranyl Fluoride and Hydrogen Fluoride are dispersed inside the facility. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if inhaled or ingested. This risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory devices. The main concern inside the facility is chemical toxicity.

    Fordow is Iran’s main enrichment location for enriching uranium to 60%. The Agency is not aware of any damage at Fordow at this time.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in last Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor-fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction.

    No increase of off-site radiation levels was reported. As in Natanz, the main concern is chemical toxicity.  

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor under construction in Arak, was hit on the 19th of June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, no radiological consequence is expected. The nearby Heavy Water Production Plant is also assessed to have been hit, and similarly no radiological consequence is expected.

    As stated in the IAEA’s update of the 18th of June, at the Tehran Research Center, one building, where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested, was hit. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings, where different centrifuge components were manufactured, were destroyed. There was no radiological impact, internally or externally.

    Let me now refer to the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. This is the nuclear site in Iran where the consequences of an attack could be most serious. It is an operating nuclear power plant and as such it hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. Countries of the region have reached out directly to me over the past few hours to express their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and completely clear: In case of an attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment.

    Similarly, a hit that disabled the only two lines supplying electrical power to the plant could cause its reactor’s core to melt, which could result in a high release of radioactivity to the environment. In their worst-case, both scenarios would necessitate protective actions, such as evacuations and sheltering of the population or the need to take stable iodine, with the reach extending to distances from a few to several hundred kilometres. Radiation monitoring would need to cover distances of several hundred kilometres and food restrictions may need to be implemented.

    Any action against the Tehran Nuclear Research Reactor could also have severe consequences, potentially for large areas of the city of Tehran and its inhabitants. In such a case, protective actions would need to be taken.

    I will continue to provide public updates about the developments at all these sites and their possible health and environmental consequences.

    The Agency is, as madame Undersecretary kindly reminded, and will remain present in Iran and inspections there will resume, as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.

    In this context, let me restate that the safety of our inspectors is of utmost importance. The host country has a responsibility in this regard, and we expect every effort to be made to ensure that their security and their communication lines with the IAEA headquarters will be maintained.

    As stated in my most recent report to the Agency’s Board of Governors and based on inspections conducted at the relevant facilities since then, Iran’s uranium stockpiles remain under safeguards in accordance with Iran’s comprehensive safeguards agreement. You may recall that more than 400kg of this stockpile is uranium enriched up to 60% U-235. It is essential that the Agency resumes inspections as soon as possible to provide credible assurances that none of it has been diverted.

    Importantly, any special measures by Iran to protect its nuclear materials and equipment must be done in accordance with Iran’s safeguards obligations and the Agency.  

    Therefore, it is of paramount importance that the Agency’s inspectors are allowed to verify that all relevant materials, especially those enriched to 60%, are accounted for. Beyond the potential radiological risks, attacks on such materials would make this effort of course more difficult.

    Madame President,

    The IAEA has consistently underlined, as stated in its General Conference resolution, that armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never take place, and could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked.

    I therefore again call on maximum restraint. Military escalation threatens lives and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.

    Madame President,

    The presence, support, analysis and inspections of technical experts are crucial to mitigating risks to nuclear safety and security – that is true during peacetime and even more so during military conflict.

    For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two UN and IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idle during this conflict.

    As I stated in this chamber just a few days ago, I am ready to travel immediately and to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.

    For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue is needed. I urge the Members of this Council to support us in making it happen sooner rather than later.

    The IAEA must receive timely and regular technical information about affected nuclear facilities and their respective sites. I urge in this regard the Iranian regulatory authorities to continue a constructive dialogue with the IAEA Incident and Emergency Centre, which has been operating 24/7 since the beginning of this conflict.

    Nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war.

    Yesterday there was an incorrect statement to the media by an Israeli military official that Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant had been attacked. Though the mistake was quickly identified and the statement retracted, the situation underscored the vital need for clear and accurate communication, and the Agency’s unique role in providing it in a technically accurate and politically impartial way is obvious.

    Let me conclude by assuring the international community of the IAEA’s continued support at this very grave time.

    A diplomatic solution is within reach if the necessary political will is there. Elements for an agreement have been discussed. The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspections system, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.  They can form the basis of a long-standing agreement that brings peace and avoids a nuclear crisis in the Middle East. This opportunity should not be missed. The alternative would be a protracted conflict and a looming threat of nuclear proliferation that, while emanating from the Middle East, would effectively erode the NPT and the non-proliferation regime as a whole.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Igor Sechin Presents Keynote Speech at SPIEF-2025 Energy Panel

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Igor Sechin Presents Keynote Speech at SPIEF-2025 Energy Panel

    As part of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, an Energy Panel organized with the support of Rosneft was held. Igor Sechin, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, presented the keynote speech “Odyssey Of The Global Economy In Search Of The Golden Fleece. The New Landscape Of Global Energy”.

    The head of Rosneft presented a detailed analysis of the current situation on the energy market.

    Special attention in the report was paid to the overdue transformation of the global energy sector. The development of high technologies requires a significant amount of natural resources, including energy resources. Training and use of artificial intelligence on the basis of large data processing centers is a highly energy-intensive process.

    Igor Sechin noted in his report that our civilization is at a critical juncture – the global energy industry is facing a large-scale transformation and the energy consumption model is changing. Against this backdrop, every country is facing the issue of the need to ensure energy security.

    Huge investments made in recent years to develop alternative energy sources have not yielded tangible results. Moreover, the inclusion of renewable energy sources in the energy systems of a number of countries has reduced reliability and even caused large-scale blackouts.

    The Energy Panel at SPIEF also brought together heads of major energy companies and leading market experts to discuss the prospects and new vectors of global energy development in the emerging multipolar world.

    The event was also attended by Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of Rosneft’s Board of Directors, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Zhang Daowei, Vice President of CNPC, Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina, Alexander Dynkin, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese Government’s non-profit initiative for the development of a new oil and gas industry in the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese Government’s non-profit initiative for the development of a new oil and gas industry.

    The Energy Panel was moderated by Rick Sanchez, a renowned American journalist and host of the RT TV channel.

    THE NEW FACE OF GLOBAL ENERGY

    The current state of the global energy industry is at the stage of forming a new image due to the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable sources, said the head of Rosneft. In his report, Igor Sechin described the main factors influencing the change in this image, including: the need to ensure energy security and commercial efficiency of energy sources, budget deficit and avalanche growth of public debt, as well as the demography of developing countries.

    Another factor that, according to the head of Rosneft, affects both energy production and consumption growth is the digital revolution with the application of artificial intelligence and work with big data.

    The electric power sector will have a special role to play, as it will have to overcome the risk of shortages due to the surge in consumption growth in China, India, developing countries and the huge need for electricity to supply data centers and heavy industry. According to Sechin, already today the level of electricity generation in China is more than twice as high as in the U.S., whereas 20 years ago the situation was the opposite.

    In his opinion, investments in this sector will exceed investments in fossil fuels by 50% as early as 2025. ” Indeed, over the past 15 years, electricity consumption has grown at a faster pace, and according to IEA projections, electricity generation is set to nearly double over the next 25 years,” Igor Sechin added.

    At the same time, the largest contribution to this growth will also be made by the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, which will provide 60% of the consumption growth. “This trend is particularly evident in India, where peak demand on the power system has risen by nearly 70% over the past decade,” said the head of Rosneft.

    In his report, Igor Sechin quoted Vaclav Smil, one of the most respected scientists of our time and a proponent of a realistic approach to the transition to new energy sources: “Energy is the universal currency. One of its many forms must be transformed to get anything done.”

    The head of Rosneft noted that modern societies with high energy consumption prefer to use resources with the highest useful energy yield, primarily fossil fuels.

    “Those who can actually take part in shaping the new energy landscape will have the opportunity to achieve advanced economic and technological growth. This brings to mind the legend of the search for the Golden Fleece by the Argonauts who overcame enormous hurdles and troubles on the way to achieving happiness and prosperity,” Igor Sechin said.

    The synthesis of conventional and alternative energy sources is currently the optimal solution for the development of the global energy sector, the head of Rosneft is convinced.

    Igor Sechin emphasized that the search for new energy sources never stops, and today there is active work on the development of a number of promising technologies. However, their full-fledged implementation is still a long way off, as current technological solutions in this area are too expensive and inferior to traditional energy sources in terms of a number of parameters.

    CHINA: SMART APPROACH AND ENERGY INDEPENDENCE

    Igor Sechin noted that China is a unique example of a competent approach to the development of the energy system – the country now accounts for a third of global investments in the energy sector.

    “In my opinion, China, which has already ensured its energy security, is confidently moving towards complete energy independence, forming a stable energy balance based on its own resources. There is no doubt, taking into account the persistence and professionalism of the Chinese comrades, that in the foreseeable future they will achieve the desired result, which will turn China from an importer of energy resources into a major energy exporter,” Rosneft CEO said.

    In recent years, China has been commissioning the largest amount of new renewable energy capacity and is home to more than 70% of the world’s green economy equipment manufacturing capacity. This applies to the entire value chain: from critical minerals to the production of high-tech equipment that has no analogues in Western countries, Sechin emphasized.

    The head of Rosneft also noted China’s efforts in increasing investments in related infrastructure: investments in power grids increased by 15% last year and may double this year.

    At the same time, China has never abandoned fossil fuels. The country has outpaced the rest of the world in terms of commissioning new coal-fired generation capacity over the past five years. “Today, coal accounts for almost 60%  of China’s electricity generation. Last year alone, China issued permits for about 100 gigawatts of new coal-fired power generation , the highest in a decade, which should strengthen coal’s role in the grid,” the Rosneft head emphasized.

    Igor Sechin noted that an important part of the strategy to reduce dependence on energy imports is the processing of coal into synthetic fuels and chemical products.

    “Chinese companies are investing billions of dollars in the development of this industry. According to experts, today in China 40 million tons of coal is used to produce synthetic fuels and more than 260 mln tons for ammonia and methanol production,” Igor Sechin stressed.

    ROSNEFT SYNTHETIC OIL

    Rosneft has completed the development of proprietary technologies and catalysts throughout the entire chain of the GTL process and plans to introduce this technology in Taimyr, Igor Sechin said. He added that all stages of the technological process are covered by relevant patents.

    The head of the Company demonstrated to the participants of the energy panel a flask with the obtained fuel, noting that it is synthetic oil consisting of the purest hydrocarbon molecules with zero sulfur content.

    “To anyone who is interested, we are ready to provide samples,” he added, addressing the participants and audience of the Energy Panel.

    NUCLEAR RENAISSANCE

    The importance of nuclear power, which is a natural complement to fossil fuels, is growing, Igor Sechin noted.

    A few years ago, the nuclear power industry was in a deep crisis due to the decline in activity in the industry. However, then the situation started to change. “Over the past five years, global annual investments in nuclear energy have increased by 50%, reaching 70 billion dollars last year . China has become one of the leaders in nuclear power today. Over the past ten years, the installed capacity of nuclear generation in this country has increased fivefold and approached 60 GW. China plans to complete the construction of 32 more reactors in the coming years,” said Rosneft’s head.

    At the same time, Sechin called it important that China relies on the latest technological achievements of the leading nuclear powers – Russia, the United States and France – to develop its nuclear industry.

    He noted that Russia has many years of experience in building nuclear power plants. The cost of the most modern Russian VVER-1200 reactor is significantly lower than that of the American AP-1000. Today, such reactors are already operating in Russia and are planned to be commissioned in friendly countries.

    “Today, Russia is the only country in the world that has expertise in the entire technological chain of the nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining to nuclear fuel disposal. In total, 80 nuclear reactors have been built in the world using Russian technologies,” Igor Sechin said.

    Also, a sodium-cooled nuclear reactor belonging to the category of fast neutron reactors, the BN-800, has been successfully operating in our country for ten years, another latest-generation fast neutron reactor, the BN-1200, is under construction.

    The head of Rosneft expects further growth of investments in the nuclear sector: new technologies, such as small modular reactors, are now attracting increased attention from investors. While such reactors are more mobile, their implementation also requires investments in the development of power grids. In addition, special attention should be paid to their safety and security against terrorist threats.

    ENERGY – DRIVING FORCE OF THE NEW TECHNOLOGICAL REVOLUTION

    The energy sector is one of the main drivers of the new technological revolution, Igor Sechin believes.

    He noted that the digital revolution with the application of artificial intelligence and work with big data should become the basis for labor productivity growth. According to the assessment of investment bank Goldman Sachs, large-scale implementation of high technologies will increase labor productivity by 1.5 p.p. for developed countries and by 1 p.p. for developing countries within 10 years.

    “The development of advanced technologies requires substantial natural resources, as well as large-scale investments in infrastructure and human capital. This, in turn, means a multiple increase in energy consumption,” Rosneft CEO noted.

    He recalled that the use of artificial intelligence on the basis of big data processing centers is a highly energy-intensive process. Such centers, according to Sechin, will contribute more to the growth of global electricity demand than heavy industry or heat supply.

    Igor Sechin also cited the development of the cryptocurrency market as an example of the impact of digitalization on the global energy system. According to him, in less than ten years, cryptocurrency has become an independent industry that today consumes resources on a par with entire countries. For example, the energy consumption of the entire bitcoin network as of May 2025 has already exceeded the level of electricity consumption in Poland.

    “GREEN” TRANSITION TO REGRESSION

    Proponents of the “net zero” concept are leading mankind to energy regression, Igor Sechin believes.

    He recalled that whenever mankind switched to a new type of fuel, the efficiency of the energy system increased and its capabilities expanded. “This was due to the fact that the new energy source usually had a higher energy flux density,” the Rosneft head explained.

    Eminent scientist Pyotr Kapitsa proved – energy flow density is a key characteristic of any kind of energy. “By this indicator, such types of fossil fuels as coal (135.1 W/m2), oil (195 W/m2) and gas (482 W/m2), as well as nuclear energy (241 W/m2) are far ahead of both solar (6.6 W/m2) and wind energy (1.8 W/m2) . Thus, the concept of ‘net zero’ actually crosses out centuries of progressive development of society, offering mankind an energy regression,” said the head of Rosneft.

    At the same time, European politicians do not have the courage to publicly recognize this fact. “Their blind faith in the ‘green’ transition already resembles an addiction. As one of the classics of French literature aptly put: ‘A red nose is a sign of constancy of character’,” Igor Sechin emphasized. The ill-considered strategy of abandoning conventional generation has already resulted in the fact that the cost of electricity in Europe today is five times higher than in the US, he added.

    Sechin also reminded that the European Union continues to try to push through the reduction of the price cap on Russian oil to 45 dollars per barrel.

    “I believe that the real purpose of this is the EU’s desire to increase the efficiency of its purchasing from Russia, not to reduce Russian budget revenues, as was publicly declared. Figures confirm this: according to Western experts, since the beginning of 2023, Europe has purchased more than 20 billion euros worth of Russian oil, thus becoming the fourth largest buyer,” Sechin said.

    However, he thinks it is clear that the U.S. will not agree to lower the price cap because it would negatively affect the profitability of U.S. oil exports.

    THE DECLINE OF THE WEST

    Igor Sechin noted that interest payments on the U.S. government debt divert significant budgetary resources. He reminded that the predicament in which developed countries find themselves due to the growth of government debt is already reflected in the assessment of their creditworthiness. Thus, in May, Moody’s became the last of the three leading international rating agencies to strip the US of its highest credit rating.

    The Rosneft head explained that with the growing deficit, interest payments divert significant budget resources from social and defense spheres. “Last year, net interest payments on the national debt reached a trillion dollars, which accounted for 14% of all state budget expenditures, exceeded defense spending and is already approaching the amount of healthcare spending,” Sechin said.

    The head of Rosneft also recalled on history and gave an example of how great powers come to decline due to excessively high levels of government debt. ” By the late 18th century, French rulers had experienced firsthand how a fiscal guillotine could swiftly transform into a literal one,” Igor Sechin noted.

    By that time, France had accumulated so much debt that it took more than half of all government expenditures to service it, which led to an increase in taxes. According to the Rosneft CEO, this was one of the main reasons for the Great French Revolution, which, in essence, ensured the transition from a monarchy to a bourgeois parliamentary republic.

    INDUSTRY LEADERS

    The Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum continued with presentations by leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the industry development concept presented by Igor Sechin, head of Rosneft.

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of Rosneft’s Board of Directors, opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of Rosneft’s Board of Directors drew the audience’s attention to the fact that despite the active promotion of the idea of transition to renewable energy sources, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy mix has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in his report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the global energy balance.

    “I would also like to take as a baton from Mr. Sechin, and pass my comment to you. It’s like food for thought: are we really moving from fossil fuels to renewable fuels?”,” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    Zhang Daowei, Vice President of China’s CNPC, noted that he listened with interest to the report of Rosneft’s CEO. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the ways of global energy development, in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    According to the vice president, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields domestically and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC is actively pursuing a “green” strategy, low-carbon development and realizing the development of a “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects with wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President and CEO of Pertamina Indonesia, said the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that is based on both conventional resources and low-carbon solutions. At the same time, natural gas plays an important role in the country’s energy mix.

    The head of Pertamina doubled down on the thesis of Igor Sechin’s report and emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is able to ensure high rates of economic growth and, in parallel, carbon neutrality.

    Reliance Industries executive director P.M.S. Prasad said India is not choosing between energy access and innovation. “India is integrating both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, India is addressing local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy efficient data centers, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He also emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation in the country’s energy balance and spoke about plans to build nuclear power plants in India, including modular ones.

    The renewed interest in investments in NPP construction was noted in the speech of the Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He told about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of WWR type reactors – water-water energetic reactor. The head of the ministry also said that gas-fired power plants are being installed in the country , hydropower is being developed, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the substantial nature of Igor Sechin’s report, which contains a detailed analysis and reflects all trends in the development of global energy, science and economy.

    In her speech, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, supported the thesis expressed by the Head of Rosneft that energy security issues should come first and named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supplies, accessibility for all, and at the same time respect for nature – with minimal environmental impact.

    Speaking about the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez supported Igor Sechin’s assessment: illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar are the main threats.

    Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, for his part, said that the answer to energy security is always related to diversifying sources of supply, improving energy efficiency and seeking alternative energy sources, including renewable energy, nuclear energy and regulating the market through predictable policies.

    Igor Sechin’s thesis that the digital revolution opens a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry was warmly echoed by the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, General Director of TOFS Oilfield Services Group, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and technology development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which is exactly what new technologies that will reduce the cost of bringing barrels to the surface can provide.

    REPORT OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF ROSNEFT I.I. SECHIN AT THE SPIEF ENERGY PANEL

    PRESENTATION OF I.I. SECHIN`S REPORT AT THE SPIEF ENERGY PANEL

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of industry development presented by Igor Sechin, Head of Rosneft. In his report “Odyssey of the Global Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Landscape a of the Global Energy Industry”, he announced that the current state of the global energy industry is at the stage of formation of a new image due to the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “synthesis of conventional and alternative energy sources”.

    The event, organized with the support of Rosneft, was addressed by Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of the Rosneft Board of Directors, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina, Zhang Daowei, Vice President of CNPC, Shiva Prasad Panda Madhusudana, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Alexander Dynkin, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, and David Gadzhimirzaev, President of TOFS.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of Rosneft’s Board of Directors drew the audience’s attention to the fact that despite the active promotion of the idea of transition to RES, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy mix has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in the report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the global energy mix. “And this statistic has not changed for the last 20 years! We are fluttering around these 80% fossil fuels and energy sources, and so not much has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewables is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take as a baton from Mr. Sechin, and pass my comment to you. It’s like food for thought: are we actually transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable fuels?“,” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Rosneft Chairman also noted that energy demand does not always coincide with production growth for various reasons.

    “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further enhance the valuable things we heard in Mr. Sechin’s words. <...> Lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is something that could really bring us to a serious energy shortage. “If this trend continues we could face an energy shortage. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts, including the International Energy Agency, and other respected experts, who in their reviews have emphasized the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a primary energy shortage!”, emphasized Al-Sada.

    FUTURE FOR SYNERGY

    Zhang Daowei, Vice President of China’s CNPC, remarked on the interest in the report by Rosneft’s CEO. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the ways of development of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to synergetic, integrated development of traditional and new energy sources, to take full account of the characteristics and degree of development of our countries’ markets, to properly link energy transition with energy security, and to promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei said.

    According to the vice president, under this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields domestically and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC is actively pursuing a green, low-carbon development strategy and realizing the development of a “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects with wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President and CEO of Pertamina Indonesia, said that the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that is based on both conventional resources and low-carbon solutions. Meanwhile, natural gas plays an important role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our LNG capacity and capability for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The Pertamina chief virtually reiterated the point made in Igor Sechin’s report and emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is able to ensure high economic growth and carbon neutrality in parallel.

    Reliance Industries CEO P.M.S. Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It is integrating both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it is addressing local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy efficient data centers, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He emphasized that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious effort. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusted partnership and appreciates the cooperation forged over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to take this partnership to an even higher bar in the future,” summarized Reliance Industries’ CEO.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT BEING WRITTEN OFF

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin, in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel, noted the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in future nuclear power will be in demand along with fossil sources and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, in turn, speaking on India’s energy outlook, emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s bold nuclear program, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonization,” Prasad said.

    The renewed interest in investments in NPP construction was noted in the speech of Uzbek Minister of Energy Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VWR type reactors – water-water power reactor. The head of the ministry also said that gas-fired power plants are being installed in the country, hydropower is being developed, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the substantial nature of Igor Sechin’s report, which contains a detailed analysis and reflects all trends in the development of global energy, science and economy.

    ENERGY SECURITY IN FIRST PLACE

    Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, in her speech supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that energy security issues should come first.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, to avoid abrupt changes that could jeopardize energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    Venezuela’s Executive Vice President named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supply, accessibility for all, while respecting nature – with minimal environmental impact.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, said the answer to energy security is always to diversify supply sources, improve energy efficiency and seek alternative energy sources, including renewable energy, nuclear energy and regulate the market with predictable policies.

    AGAINST LOGIC

    The panelists drew attention to the political events of recent decades and stated that geopolitics is now shaping the direction of economic cooperation. And often against the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear power. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear power, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me votes in exchange. Yes, she’s a good scientist, but she’s also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing the policy on the use of nuclear power plants under the pressure of public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy carriers and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor of the 21st century global economy. It is geopolitical interests that brought the BRICS countries together.  The criterion for membership is not to use sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” said Alexander Dynkin, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    He noted that the European bureaucrats are concerned about the complete refusal of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, undermining the competitiveness of the EU,” – said Dynkin and recalled that if in 2014, the U.S. GDP was ahead of the EU GDP. US GDP was only 12% ahead of EU GDP, last year the US economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and migration crisis,” said the RAS academy member.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution opens a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry was warmly echoed by the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, General Director of TOFS Oilfield Services Group, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and technology development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which is exactly what new technologies can provide, which will reduce the cost of bringing barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that just this year the Energy Strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we are not only working on expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    Source: Rosneft

    Headline: Global Energy Balance: Heads of Major Energy Companies, Experts Discuss Future of Energy Sector at SPIEF

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of industry development presented by Igor Sechin, Head of Rosneft. In his report “Odyssey of the Global Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Landscape a of the Global Energy Industry”, he announced that the current state of the global energy industry is at the stage of formation of a new image due to the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “synthesis of conventional and alternative energy sources”.

    The event, organized with the support of Rosneft, was addressed by Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Chairman of the Rosneft Board of Directors, Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina, Zhang Daowei, Vice President of CNPC, Shiva Prasad Panda Madhusudana, Executive Director of Reliance Industries, Alexander Dynkin, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, and David Gadzhimirzaev, President of TOFS.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of Rosneft’s Board of Directors drew the audience’s attention to the fact that despite the active promotion of the idea of transition to RES, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy mix has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in the report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the global energy mix. “And this statistic has not changed for the last 20 years! We are fluttering around these 80% fossil fuels and energy sources, and so not much has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewables is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take as a baton from Mr. Sechin, and pass my comment to you. It’s like food for thought: are we actually transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable fuels?“,” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Rosneft Chairman also noted that energy demand does not always coincide with production growth for various reasons.

    “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further enhance the valuable things we heard in Mr. Sechin’s words. <...> Lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is something that could really bring us to a serious energy shortage. “If this trend continues we could face an energy shortage. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts, including the International Energy Agency, and other respected experts, who in their reviews have emphasized the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a primary energy shortage!”, emphasized Al-Sada.

    FUTURE FOR SYNERGY

    Zhang Daowei, Vice President of China’s CNPC, remarked on the interest in the report by Rosneft’s CEO. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the ways of development of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to synergetic, integrated development of traditional and new energy sources, to take full account of the characteristics and degree of development of our countries’ markets, to properly link energy transition with energy security, and to promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei said.

    According to the vice president, under this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields domestically and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC is actively pursuing a green, low-carbon development strategy and realizing the development of a “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects with wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Simon Aloysius Mantiri, President and CEO of Pertamina Indonesia, said that the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that is based on both conventional resources and low-carbon solutions. Meanwhile, natural gas plays an important role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our LNG capacity and capability for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The Pertamina chief virtually reiterated the point made in Igor Sechin’s report and emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is able to ensure high economic growth and carbon neutrality in parallel.

    Reliance Industries CEO P.M.S. Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It is integrating both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it is addressing local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy efficient data centers, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He emphasized that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious effort. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusted partnership and appreciates the cooperation forged over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to take this partnership to an even higher bar in the future,” summarized Reliance Industries’ CEO.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT BEING WRITTEN OFF

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin, in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel, noted the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in future nuclear power will be in demand along with fossil sources and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, in turn, speaking on India’s energy outlook, emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s bold nuclear program, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonization,” Prasad said.

    The renewed interest in investments in NPP construction was noted in the speech of Uzbek Minister of Energy Zhurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VWR type reactors – water-water power reactor. The head of the ministry also said that gas-fired power plants are being installed in the country, hydropower is being developed, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the substantial nature of Igor Sechin’s report, which contains a detailed analysis and reflects all trends in the development of global energy, science and economy.

    ENERGY SECURITY IN FIRST PLACE

    Delcy Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, in her speech supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that energy security issues should come first.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, to avoid abrupt changes that could jeopardize energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    Venezuela’s Executive Vice President named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supply, accessibility for all, while respecting nature – with minimal environmental impact.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Nobuo Tanaka, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit Low Carbon Technology Initiative, said the answer to energy security is always to diversify supply sources, improve energy efficiency and seek alternative energy sources, including renewable energy, nuclear energy and regulate the market with predictable policies.

    AGAINST LOGIC

    The panelists drew attention to the political events of recent decades and stated that geopolitics is now shaping the direction of economic cooperation. And often against the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear power. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear power, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me votes in exchange. Yes, she’s a good scientist, but she’s also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing the policy on the use of nuclear power plants under the pressure of public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy carriers and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor of the 21st century global economy. It is geopolitical interests that brought the BRICS countries together.  The criterion for membership is not to use sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” said Alexander Dynkin, a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    He noted that the European bureaucrats are concerned about the complete refusal of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, undermining the competitiveness of the EU,” – said Dynkin and recalled that if in 2014, the U.S. GDP was ahead of the EU GDP. US GDP was only 12% ahead of EU GDP, last year the US economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and migration crisis,” said the RAS academy member.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution opens a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry was warmly echoed by the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, General Director of TOFS Oilfield Services Group, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and technology development. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which is exactly what new technologies can provide, which will reduce the cost of bringing barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that just this year the Energy Strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we are not only working on expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising
    Rosneft Oil Company
    June 21, 2025

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Global energy balance: heads of major energy companies and experts at SPIEF discussed the future of energy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    At the Energy Panel of the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, leading industry experts, politicians, scientists, government officials and heads of major international energy companies discussed current trends in the global energy market.

    Their assessments and forecasts largely coincided with the visionary concept of the industry development presented by Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin. In his report “The Odyssey of the World Economy in Search of the Golden Fleece. The New Image of World Energy,” he announced that the current state of world energy is at the stage of forming a new image, caused by the multiple growth of electricity consumption, the generation of which will be provided by both fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. According to him, the optimal solution today is “the synthesis of traditional and alternative energy sources.”

    The event, organized with the support of PJSC NK Rosneft, was attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer of Pertamina Simon Aloysius Mantiri, Vice President of CNPC Zhang Daowei, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the non-profit initiative of the Japanese government for the development of low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, as well as President of TOFS Group David Gadzhimirzaev.

    ENERGY TRANSITION WITHOUT TRANSITION

    Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada opened the discussion of Igor Sechin’s report, noting the depth of his analysis. “It was comprehensive – the way you showed that progress and energy are inseparable,” Al-Sada addressed Sechin.

    The head of the board of directors of Rosneft drew the audience’s attention to the fact that, despite the active promotion of the idea of switching to renewable energy sources, the share of fossil energy sources in the energy balance has not changed in recent decades. He recalled that Igor Sechin mentioned in his report that fossil fuels account for 80% of the world’s energy balance. “And these statistics have not changed in the last 20 years! We flutter around these 80% of fossil fuels and energy sources, and, therefore, little has changed!” exclaimed Al-Sada, describing the situation in the global energy sector.

    “In other words, we are essentially not making any transition away from hydrocarbons,” he concluded, emphasizing that the transition to renewable energy sources is being imposed on the industry and the public.

    “I would also like to take the baton from Mr. Sechin and pass on my comment to you. This is food for thought: are we really moving from fossil fuels to renewables?” Al-Sada addressed the audience.

    The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rosneft also noted that the demand for energy for various reasons does not always coincide with the growth of production. “I would like to express two small thoughts in order to further color the valuable things that we heard in the words of Mr. Sechin. The lack of investment is already a reality in the hydrocarbon and energy sectors. This is what can really lead us to a serious shortage of energy. “If this trend continues, we may face a shortage of energy resources. This is not only my personal opinion, but also what a large number of analysts say, including the International Energy Agency and other respected experts, who in their reviews emphasize the importance of having sufficient investment in the hydrocarbon sector. Otherwise, we will face the risk of a shortage of primary energy!” Al-Sada emphasized.

    THE FUTURE IS SYNERGY

    Vice President of China’s CNPC Zhang Daowei noted that he listened with interest to the report of Rosneft’s Chief Executive Officer. In his speech, the top manager of the Chinese company expressed similar assessments of the development paths of the global energy sector – in particular, the need for synergy between traditional and new energy sources.

    “We have always believed that in the context of the energy transition course, it is necessary to adhere to the synergetic, comprehensive development of traditional and new energy sources, fully take into account the characteristics and level of development of our countries’ markets, properly link the energy transition with energy security, and promote a fair and sustainable model of energy transformation,” Daowei noted.

    According to the vice president, within the framework of this philosophy, CNPC, on the one hand, continues to increase the exploration and development of oil and gas fields at home and import high-quality resources from abroad, including strengthening long-term cooperation with Russia in the field of hydrocarbon trade. On the other hand, CNPC actively adheres to the strategy of “green”, low-carbon development and implements the development of the “three-step strategy” combining oil and gas projects using wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

    Indonesia’s Pertamina President and CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri said the company is pursuing a dual growth strategy that relies on both traditional resources and low-carbon solutions, with natural gas playing a major role in the country’s energy mix.

    “Natural gas is at the center of our strategy to transition to cleaner fuels. And today we are expanding our capacity and ability to produce LNG for both domestic and export needs,” he said.

    The head of Pertamina essentially repeated the thesis voiced in Igor Sechin’s report, and particularly emphasized that by achieving a balance of energy sources and a comprehensive approach, the company is capable of ensuring high rates of economic growth and, at the same time, carbon neutrality.

    Reliance Industries CEO PMS Prasad said India does not choose between energy access and innovation. “It integrates both. By developing scalable, context-specific solutions, it addresses local priorities while making a significant contribution to global sustainability. From rural microgrids to energy-efficient data centres, India is turning its potential into a strategic asset,” Prasad said.

    He stressed that international partnerships play a vital role in this ambitious endeavour. “Energy remains a key cornerstone of the strategic relationship between India and Russia. India values this trusting partnership and appreciates the cooperation built over decades. The leadership of both countries is committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels in the future,” the Reliance Industries CEO concluded.

    NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS ARE NOT WRITTEN OFF THE ACCOUNTS

    Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin noted in his keynote speech at the Energy Panel the growing interest in nuclear power generation worldwide and, accordingly, the growth of investments in this area. According to him, this is happening against the backdrop of growing energy consumption and in the future nuclear energy will be in demand along with fossil fuels and renewable energy sources.

    Reliance Industries CEO Panda Madhusudana Shiva Prasad, speaking in turn about the prospects for the development of India’s energy sector, particularly emphasized the significant role of nuclear power generation.

    “Gas, renewables supported by energy storage systems and a robust transmission grid, and nuclear power will play a key role. India’s ambitious nuclear programme, including small modular reactors, reflects its commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonisation,” Prasad said.

    The revival of interest in investment in the construction of nuclear power plants was noted in the speech of the Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov. He spoke about joint plans with Russia to build two units of 55 megawatts each, and two units of VVR-type reactors – water-cooled power reactors. The head of the ministry also reported that the country is installing power plants where gas is burned, hydropower is developing, the share of renewable sources is increasing, and storage systems are being created at the same time.

    The Minister noted the content of Igor Sechin’s report, which provided a detailed analysis and reflected all the development trends in global energy, science and economics.

    ENERGY SECURITY FIRST

    In her speech, the Executive Vice President of the Republic of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, supported the thesis expressed by the head of Rosneft that issues of ensuring energy security should be a top priority.

    “We always advocate that the energy transition be carried out responsibly, taking into account reality, in order to avoid abrupt changes that could threaten energy security,” Rodriguez said.

    The Executive Vice President of Venezuela named the main components of a stable energy system of the future: energy security, reliable supplies, accessibility for all, and at the same time respect for nature – with minimal impact on the environment.

    Among the main threats to energy security, Rodriguez named illegal sanctions against producing countries and the hegemony of the dollar.

    Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Japanese government’s non-profit initiative to develop low-carbon technologies Nobuo Tanaka, in turn, noted that the answer to energy security issues is always associated with diversification of supply sources, increasing energy efficiency and searching for alternative energy sources, including renewable energy sources, nuclear energy and regulating the market through predictable policies.

    CONTRARY TO LOGIC

    The participants in the discussion drew attention to the political events of the last decades and stated that today geopolitics shapes the directions of economic cooperation. Moreover, often contrary to the logic of market expediency and economic efficiency.

    Tanaka recalled in this regard how he discussed Germany’s energy policy with Chancellor Merkel in 2009: “I asked her why Germany does not use nuclear energy. She answered like this: Mr. Tanaka, I am a scientist, I know how important it is to use nuclear energy, but in order to use it in Germany, she said, give me the votes of the voters in exchange for it. Yes, she is a good scientist, but she is also a very smart politician.”

    The professor is sure that despite her experience, Merkel made a very serious mistake by changing her policy on the use of nuclear power plants under pressure from public opinion. Another mistake was the refusal to use Russian energy resources and Russian natural gas. “I think she was misled,” Tanaka said.

    “Geopolitics is a factor in the global economy of the 21st century. It is geopolitical interests that united the BRICS countries. The criterion for membership is not the application of sanctions against other members of the organization. But geopolitics has also become a kind of “trap” for Germany after Trump’s victory,” says academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Dynkin.

    He noted that Eurocrats are concerned about the complete rejection of energy supplies from Russia by 2027. “They are not stopped by the growth of costs, which undermines the competitiveness of the EU,” Dynkin noted and recalled that if in 2014 the US GDP was ahead of the EU GDP by only 12%, then last year the American economy was already 50% larger than the European one.

    “Although the German energy crisis is formally over, the country paid for it with three years of stagnation, deindustrialization, inflation, and a migration crisis,” said the member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    DIGITAL REVOLUTION

    The thesis voiced in Igor Sechin’s report that the digital revolution is opening a new era in the development of the oil and gas industry received a warm response from the audience. In particular, David Gadzhimirzaev, CEO of the oilfield services company TOFS, thanked Rosneft for supporting innovation and developing technologies. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability, stability and reliability of resources, which can be provided by new technologies that will reduce the cost of lifting barrels to the surface.

    “We all know that literally this year the energy strategy-2050 was approved, which includes the fact that by 2050 about 70% of the Russian Federation’s production will be from hard-to-recover reserves. Therefore, we, in turn, are not only working on the expertise, but also working on the production of new technologies,” Gadzhimirzaev said.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

    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 Russia: Sechin called the new face of energy a synthesis of traditional and alternative sources

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The synthesis of traditional and alternative energy sources is currently the optimal solution for the development of the global energy sector, said Rosneft Chief Executive Officer Igor Sechin at the Energy Panel at the XXVIII St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    According to the head of the Company, the search for new energy sources never stops, and today active work is underway to develop a number of promising technologies. However, their full implementation is still far away, since modern technological solutions in this area are too expensive and inferior to traditional energy sources in a number of parameters.

    “For many years now, great hopes have been placed on the use of hydrogen. However, low-carbon hydrogen still accounts for less than 1% of all produced volumes. According to the consulting company Deloitte, the introduction of “green” hydrogen fuel will cost almost 10 trillion dollars by 2050,” noted Igor Sechin, adding that the cost of green hydrogen varies from 200 to 400 dollars per barrel of oil equivalent, which, in the current conditions, makes it uncompetitive compared to oil and gas.

    He also stressed that using cheaper methods of hydrogen production does not reduce the carbon footprint, since the production of so-called “grey” hydrogen exceeds the emissions that occur during the full cycle of production and use of gasoline.

    The introduction of space solar energy is also associated with large expenses, Igor Sechin emphasized. The head of the Company noted that the cost of a satellite capable of converting solar energy into electricity in space exceeds 30 billion euros, while there is still no technology that would allow transmitting huge amounts of energy to Earth from space.

    The head of Rosneft also drew attention to the search for alternative options in the field of energy storage. “Alternative types of batteries are appearing, which already offer certain advantages, but are not yet ready for widespread implementation. For example, a sodium-ion battery reduces charging time by 75% and has higher performance at low temperatures, but is several times inferior to existing lithium-ion analogues in energy capacity and service life,” said Igor Sechin.

    “As we can see, we are still very far from the full implementation of all these technologies. Therefore, today the optimal solution is a synthesis of traditional and alternative sources,” the head of Rosneft concluded.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft June 21, 2025

    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 NGOs: IAEA Director General Grossi’s Statement to UNSC on Situation in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    (As prepared for delivery)

    Attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused a sharp degradation in nuclear safety and security in Iran. Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur.

    The International Atomic Energy Agency has been monitoring closely the situation at Iran’s nuclear sites since Israel began its attacks a week ago. As part of its mission, the IAEA is the global nerve centre for information on nuclear and radiological safety, and we can respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.

    Based on information available to the IAEA, the following is the current situation at Iran’s nuclear sites. Which I offer as a follow up to my most recent report to this Security Council.

    The Natanz enrichment site contains two facilities. The first is the main Fuel Enrichment Plant. Initial attacks on the 13th of June targeted and destroyed electricity infrastructure at the facility, including an electrical sub-station, the main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators. On the same day, the main cascade hall appears to have been attacked using ground-penetrating munitions.

    The second facility at Natanz is the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant. It consists of aboveground and underground cascade halls. On the 13th of June the above-ground part was functionally destroyed and the strikes on the underground cascade halls were seriously damaging.

    The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact on the population or the environment.

    However, within the Natanz facility there is both radiological and chemical contamination. It is possible that Uranium isotopes contained in Uranium Hexafluoride, Uranyl Fluoride and Hydrogen Fluoride are dispersed inside the facility. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if inhaled or ingested. This risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory devices. The main concern inside the facility is chemical toxicity.

    Fordow is Iran’s main enrichment location for enriching uranium to 60%. The Agency is not aware of any damage at Fordow at this time.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in last Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor-fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction.

    No increase of off-site radiation levels was reported. As in Natanz, the main concern is chemical toxicity.  

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor under construction in Arak, was hit on the 19th of June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, no radiological consequence is expected. The nearby Heavy Water Production Plant is also assessed to have been hit, and similarly no radiological consequence is expected.

    As stated in the IAEA’s update of the 18th of June, at the Tehran Research Center, one building, where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested, was hit. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings, where different centrifuge components were manufactured, were destroyed. There was no radiological impact, internally or externally.

    Let me now refer to the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. This is the nuclear site in Iran where the consequences of an attack could be most serious. It is an operating nuclear power plant and as such it hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. Countries of the region have reached out directly to me over the past few hours to express their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and completely clear: In case of an attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment.

    Similarly, a hit that disabled the only two lines supplying electrical power to the plant could cause its reactor’s core to melt, which could result in a high release of radioactivity to the environment. In their worst-case, both scenarios would necessitate protective actions, such as evacuations and sheltering of the population or the need to take stable iodine, with the reach extending to distances from a few to several hundred kilometres. Radiation monitoring would need to cover distances of several hundred kilometres and food restrictions may need to be implemented.

    Any action against the Tehran Nuclear Research Reactor could also have severe consequences, potentially for large areas of the city of Tehran and its inhabitants. In such a case, protective actions would need to be taken.

    I will continue to provide public updates about the developments at all these sites and their possible health and environmental consequences.

    The Agency is, as madame Undersecretary kindly reminded, and will remain present in Iran and inspections there will resume, as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.

    In this context, let me restate that the safety of our inspectors is of utmost importance. The host country has a responsibility in this regard, and we expect every effort to be made to ensure that their security and their communication lines with the IAEA headquarters will be maintained.

    As stated in my most recent report to the Agency’s Board of Governors and based on inspections conducted at the relevant facilities since then, Iran’s uranium stockpiles remain under safeguards in accordance with Iran’s comprehensive safeguards agreement. You may recall that more than 400kg of this stockpile is uranium enriched up to 60% U-235. It is essential that the Agency resumes inspections as soon as possible to provide credible assurances that none of it has been diverted.

    Importantly, any special measures by Iran to protect its nuclear materials and equipment must be done in accordance with Iran’s safeguards obligations and the Agency.  

    Therefore, it is of paramount importance that the Agency’s inspectors are allowed to verify that all relevant materials, especially those enriched to 60%, are accounted for. Beyond the potential radiological risks, attacks on such materials would make this effort of course more difficult.

    Madame President,

    The IAEA has consistently underlined, as stated in its General Conference resolution, that armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never take place, and could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked.

    I therefore again call on maximum restraint. Military escalation threatens lives and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.

    Madame President,

    The presence, support, analysis and inspections of technical experts are crucial to mitigating risks to nuclear safety and security – that is true during peacetime and even more so during military conflict.

    For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two UN and IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idle during this conflict.

    As I stated in this chamber just a few days ago, I am ready to travel immediately and to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.

    For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue is needed. I urge the Members of this Council to support us in making it happen sooner rather than later.

    The IAEA must receive timely and regular technical information about affected nuclear facilities and their respective sites. I urge in this regard the Iranian regulatory authorities to continue a constructive dialogue with the IAEA Incident and Emergency Centre, which has been operating 24/7 since the beginning of this conflict.

    Nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war.

    Yesterday there was an incorrect statement to the media by an Israeli military official that Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant had been attacked. Though the mistake was quickly identified and the statement retracted, the situation underscored the vital need for clear and accurate communication, and the Agency’s unique role in providing it in a technically accurate and politically impartial way is obvious.

    Let me conclude by assuring the international community of the IAEA’s continued support at this very grave time.

    A diplomatic solution is within reach if the necessary political will is there. Elements for an agreement have been discussed. The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspections system, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.  They can form the basis of a long-standing agreement that brings peace and avoids a nuclear crisis in the Middle East. This opportunity should not be missed. The alternative would be a protracted conflict and a looming threat of nuclear proliferation that, while emanating from the Middle East, would effectively erode the NPT and the non-proliferation regime as a whole.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Director General Grossi’s Statement to UNSC on Situation in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    (As prepared for delivery)

    Attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused a sharp degradation in nuclear safety and security in Iran. Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur.

    The International Atomic Energy Agency has been monitoring closely the situation at Iran’s nuclear sites since Israel began its attacks a week ago. As part of its mission, the IAEA is the global nerve centre for information on nuclear and radiological safety, and we can respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.

    Based on information available to the IAEA, the following is the current situation at Iran’s nuclear sites. Which I offer as a follow up to my most recent report to this Security Council.

    The Natanz enrichment site contains two facilities. The first is the main Fuel Enrichment Plant. Initial attacks on the 13th of June targeted and destroyed electricity infrastructure at the facility, including an electrical sub-station, the main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators. On the same day, the main cascade hall appears to have been attacked using ground-penetrating munitions.

    The second facility at Natanz is the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant. It consists of aboveground and underground cascade halls. On the 13th of June the above-ground part was functionally destroyed and the strikes on the underground cascade halls were seriously damaging.

    The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact on the population or the environment.

    However, within the Natanz facility there is both radiological and chemical contamination. It is possible that Uranium isotopes contained in Uranium Hexafluoride, Uranyl Fluoride and Hydrogen Fluoride are dispersed inside the facility. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if inhaled or ingested. This risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory devices. The main concern inside the facility is chemical toxicity.

    Fordow is Iran’s main enrichment location for enriching uranium to 60%. The Agency is not aware of any damage at Fordow at this time.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in last Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor-fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction.

    No increase of off-site radiation levels was reported. As in Natanz, the main concern is chemical toxicity.  

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor under construction in Arak, was hit on the 19th of June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, no radiological consequence is expected. The nearby Heavy Water Production Plant is also assessed to have been hit, and similarly no radiological consequence is expected.

    As stated in the IAEA’s update of the 18th of June, at the Tehran Research Center, one building, where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested, was hit. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings, where different centrifuge components were manufactured, were destroyed. There was no radiological impact, internally or externally.

    Let me now refer to the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. This is the nuclear site in Iran where the consequences of an attack could be most serious. It is an operating nuclear power plant and as such it hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. Countries of the region have reached out directly to me over the past few hours to express their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and completely clear: In case of an attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment.

    Similarly, a hit that disabled the only two lines supplying electrical power to the plant could cause its reactor’s core to melt, which could result in a high release of radioactivity to the environment. In their worst-case, both scenarios would necessitate protective actions, such as evacuations and sheltering of the population or the need to take stable iodine, with the reach extending to distances from a few to several hundred kilometres. Radiation monitoring would need to cover distances of several hundred kilometres and food restrictions may need to be implemented.

    Any action against the Tehran Nuclear Research Reactor could also have severe consequences, potentially for large areas of the city of Tehran and its inhabitants. In such a case, protective actions would need to be taken.

    I will continue to provide public updates about the developments at all these sites and their possible health and environmental consequences.

    The Agency is, as madame Undersecretary kindly reminded, and will remain present in Iran and inspections there will resume, as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.

    In this context, let me restate that the safety of our inspectors is of utmost importance. The host country has a responsibility in this regard, and we expect every effort to be made to ensure that their security and their communication lines with the IAEA headquarters will be maintained.

    As stated in my most recent report to the Agency’s Board of Governors and based on inspections conducted at the relevant facilities since then, Iran’s uranium stockpiles remain under safeguards in accordance with Iran’s comprehensive safeguards agreement. You may recall that more than 400kg of this stockpile is uranium enriched up to 60% U-235. It is essential that the Agency resumes inspections as soon as possible to provide credible assurances that none of it has been diverted.

    Importantly, any special measures by Iran to protect its nuclear materials and equipment must be done in accordance with Iran’s safeguards obligations and the Agency.  

    Therefore, it is of paramount importance that the Agency’s inspectors are allowed to verify that all relevant materials, especially those enriched to 60%, are accounted for. Beyond the potential radiological risks, attacks on such materials would make this effort of course more difficult.

    Madame President,

    The IAEA has consistently underlined, as stated in its General Conference resolution, that armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never take place, and could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked.

    I therefore again call on maximum restraint. Military escalation threatens lives and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.

    Madame President,

    The presence, support, analysis and inspections of technical experts are crucial to mitigating risks to nuclear safety and security – that is true during peacetime and even more so during military conflict.

    For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two UN and IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idle during this conflict.

    As I stated in this chamber just a few days ago, I am ready to travel immediately and to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.

    For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue is needed. I urge the Members of this Council to support us in making it happen sooner rather than later.

    The IAEA must receive timely and regular technical information about affected nuclear facilities and their respective sites. I urge in this regard the Iranian regulatory authorities to continue a constructive dialogue with the IAEA Incident and Emergency Centre, which has been operating 24/7 since the beginning of this conflict.

    Nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war.

    Yesterday there was an incorrect statement to the media by an Israeli military official that Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant had been attacked. Though the mistake was quickly identified and the statement retracted, the situation underscored the vital need for clear and accurate communication, and the Agency’s unique role in providing it in a technically accurate and politically impartial way is obvious.

    Let me conclude by assuring the international community of the IAEA’s continued support at this very grave time.

    A diplomatic solution is within reach if the necessary political will is there. Elements for an agreement have been discussed. The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspections system, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.  They can form the basis of a long-standing agreement that brings peace and avoids a nuclear crisis in the Middle East. This opportunity should not be missed. The alternative would be a protracted conflict and a looming threat of nuclear proliferation that, while emanating from the Middle East, would effectively erode the NPT and the non-proliferation regime as a whole.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Questions Energy Secretary Why DOE is Spiking Clean Energy Projects, Increasing Electricity Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.20.25
    Cantwell Questions Energy Secretary Why DOE is Spiking Clean Energy Projects, Increasing Electricity Costs
    Cantwell presses Secretary Wright on whether DOE will renege on $1B promised for PNW green hydrogen hub On hydropower, Secretary acknowledges to Cantwell that “hydro has been a great resource for this country” that is “quite beneficial to our electricity grid”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, pressed U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright on whether the Trump Administration is attempting to roll back hydrogen production investments secured and awarded under the Biden Administration — including a $1 billion grant awarded to the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Association in 2023 to become a one of seven Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs, as well as a 2022 tax credit aimed at spurring more investment in clean hydrogen production called 45V.  The budget reconciliation bill passed last month by the House of Representatives eliminates the hydrogen credit, as would the proposal released earlier this week by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-ID).
    Sen. Cantwell: “I actually think getting rid of the tax credits that we have, some of the other ones, broadly, are going to lead to electricity increased cost. And so, can I get you to tell me about the hydrogen hubs, whether you believe you support the hydrogen hubs and moving forward on this?”
    Wright: “So, we put together, as I’m sure you’ve heard, and we’ve published it on the website, this project review process. We have a cross-functional team that evaluates every project. We’re going through 500 projects.”
    Sen. Cantwell: “But is that data call a way to kill the projects? Or no, you really believe in funding some?”
    Wright: “Oh, absolutely. No, we are funding plenty of projects right now, and we don’t stop funding any project. We’re funding all of the existing projects right now, and when we evaluate them – no, plenty of projects will pass. Plenty of projects will pass. Other projects we’ll say, “Hey, can you modify it this way to make it much more beneficial?” Some projects will be modified, and some projects will be ended. “
    Video of their Q&A is HERE; a transcript is HERE.
    Hydrogen is a clean fuel that, when consumed in a fuel cell, produces no dirty emissions — only water. Hydrogen can be produced from existing power resources, such as solar and hydropower.
    Sen. Cantwell helped secure the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs) program and other key hydrogen investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) during consideration in the Energy and Natural Resources Committee in July 2021, where she is a senior member, and push for its successful passage through the Senate. The H2Hubs program designated up to $7 billion in competitive grants to establish between six and 10 regional clean hydrogen hubs across the United States. These networks of hydrogen producers, consumers, and local connective infrastructure were meant to help accelerate the use of hydrogen as clean energy and work toward achieving former President Biden’s goal of a 100 percent clean electrical grid by 2035 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
    In October 2023, with support from the region’s Congressional delegation led by Sen. Cantwell, the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Association received a $1 billion grant through the H2Hubs program. With continued federal support, the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Association will be able to build out a robust network of hydrogen suppliers and off-takers in both the western and eastern parts of Washington and Oregon, as well as parts of Montana. Clean hydrogen can support decarbonization efforts already being made in the transportation, industrial, and agricultural sectors, as well as the rapidly expanding zero-carbon aviation sector being pioneered in the Pacific Northwest.
    In 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law, which included the 45V hydrogen production tax credit to incentivize projects that produce clean hydrogen power. In July 2024, Sen. Cantwell joined a group of colleagues in sending a letter urging then-Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to issue guidance on 45V eligibility that capitalizes on the “opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions faster and enhance our energy security, while strengthening our economy, creating thousands of jobs, and combating the climate crisis.” The budget bill currently being negotiated in the House and the Senate would drastically shorten the timeline for projects to qualify for the 45V credits – requiring them to begin construction by Jan. 1, 2026 rather than the previous deadline of Jan. 1, 2033 – and cut funding for the H2Hubs program. The Trump Administration is also currently reviewing the remaining H2Hubs financing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIH to Fund Long-Term Health Studies for East Palestine After Train Disaster

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Friday, June 19, 2026

    Today, at the urging of Vice President JD Vance, under the leadership of U.S. Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched a five-year, $10 million research initiative to assess and address the long-term health outcomes stemming from the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.
    “Vice President Vance, thank you for your persistence on this issue,” Secretary Kennedy said. “You helped drive the first large-scale, coordinated, multi-year federal study dedicated to the long-term health effects of the East Palestine, Ohio disaster. The people of East Palestine have a right to clear, science-backed answers about the impact on their health.”
    “As a senator, it was incredibly frustrating watching the Biden administration refuse to examine the potentially dangerous health impacts on the people of East Palestine following the train derailment,” Vice President Vance said. “I’m proud that we finally have a new president that takes the concerns of everyday, working-class people seriously. This historic research initiative will finally result in answers that this community deserves, and I’m grateful for the work of Secretary Kennedy and Director Bhattacharya on these efforts.”
    On Feb. 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern freight train derailment involving 38 cars carrying hazardous chemicals—including vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, ethylene glycol, and benzene residue—resulted in prolonged fires and controlled burns in East Palestine. Following the derailment, several railcars burned for more than two days, and emergency responders conducted controlled burns which raised concerns about the airborne release of hydrogen chloride and phosgene.
    Community members experienced and reported a range of initial health symptoms—including headaches as well as respiratory, skin, and eye irritations—prompting concern about broader long-term impacts on maternal and child health as well as psychological, immunological, respiratory, and cardiovascular effects.
    “NIH is working to ensure that the people of East Palestine and the surrounding communities are listened to, cared for, and get the answers they deserve,” NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya said. “This multi-disciplinary research program will focus on public health tracking and surveillance of the community’s health conditions to support health care decisions and preventive measures.”
    The multi-disciplinary, community-focused series of studies that will focus on:

    Longitudinal epidemiological research to understand the health impacts of exposures on short- and long-term health outcomes including relevant biological markers of risk.
    Public health tracking and surveillance of the community’s health conditions to support health care decisions and preventive measures.
    Extensive, well-coordinated, communications among researchers, study participants, community stakeholders, health care providers, government officials, and others to establish a comprehensive approach to address the affected communities’ health concerns.

    Technical details, application information, and other background material to the public were released today. It is expected that a series of grants will be issued to analyze various types of studies and community activities. The deadline to submit research proposals is July 21. Research projects to start this fall. Learn more here.
    “The announcement today of the funding for long-term health studies for the people of East Palestine is great news for the community,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “This funding will enable the people of East Palestine to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that any potential for long-term health effects will be studied by the scientists at the National Institutes of Health. I thank President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Secretary Kennedy for their commitment now and into the future.”
    “Let’s be clear, Joe Biden abandoned East Palestine and left a community of working Americans behind when they needed him most,” Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) said. “I’m beyond grateful that President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Secretary Kennedy are moving quickly to make the community whole again and help these Ohioans in need. This is a huge step toward finally getting justice for East Palestine.”
    “On its path to full recovery, East Palestine deserves the reassurance that comes with transparency, and, thanks to the Trump Administration, that’s what they’re getting,” Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio) said. “My commitment to East Palestine means making sure that we have the facts necessary to respond effectively and compassionately—now and into the future. I’m thankful for the leadership of President Trump and Vice President Vance, as well as Secretary Kennedy and Director Bhattacharya, in fighting for East Palestine and ensuring all impacted get the support they need and deserve.”
    “Once again, this administration is showing the American people what true leadership looks like—putting Americans first,” Rep. Mike Rulli (OH-06) said. “Unlike the Biden Administration, which tried to sweep under the rug the catastrophic negligence and long-term health consequences of the East Palestine disaster, President Trump, Secretary Kennedy, and Director Bhattacharya are stepping up and putting Ohioans’ health first. I couldn’t be more pleased with this announcement and the meaningful support this administration is delivering to my constituents.”
    “I applaud the Trump/Vance Administration for not leaving the people of East Palestine behind,” Rep. Dave Joyce (OH-14) said. “Programs like these, in coordination with other federal, state, and local partners, are critical to ensuring the impacted communities can move forward with the essential tools and knowledge to safeguard their long-term well-being. I look forward to continuing to work with the Administration and my colleagues in Congress to enact my bill, the East Palestine Health Impact Monitoring Act, and similar programs that advocate for the long-term recovery of the region.”
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    Institute/Center

    National Institutes of Health (NIH)

    Contact

    NIH Office of Communications
    301-496-5787

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Holds Press Conference on Energy Choice Act, Vows to End Blue-State Wars on American Energy

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    ELMIRA, N.Y. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) held a press conference in Elmira, NY, on the Energy Choice Act to prohibit states or local governments from banning an energy service’s connection, reconnection, modification, installation, or expansion based on the type or source of energy to be delivered.

    “Governor Kathy Hochul and Democrats in Albany are hurting New Yorkers with their relentless war on American energy,” said Congressman Langworthy. “Her effort to ban the use of gas in buildings across the state will not only increase energy costs for families, but it will also eliminate a reliable and necessary source of energy that keeps homes heated and people safe. As this is becoming a dangerous trend in blue states across the country, the Energy Choice Act would end these costly bans and secure our nation’s energy future.”

    Watch the livestream here.

    “The Independent Oil and Gas Association of New York (IOGANY) fully supports the passage of the proposed Energy Choice Act. IOGANY is an association of oil and gas producers, pipeline companies, and associated support industries that provide safe, reliable, cost-effective energy in New York State. We are also New York State business owners and homeowners that are experiencing the same inflationary costs as NY citizens. 

    “During the past decade, New York has implemented policies to improve New York’s air quality through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). Both of these policies are focused on reaching emission reduction goals by reducing the use of fossil fuels and increasing the use of green energy (wind and solar). These efforts have resulted in increased electric and natural gas utility bills as costs of these green energy programs are passed through to the business community and homeowners. Everyone knows the sun does not shine and the wind does not blow all the time, so this transition is impacting energy reliability.  

    “In addition to increased utility bills, these policies will force home and business owners to pay to convert buildings and homes to use primarily electric energy (new electric appliances and heating systems), as well as, purchase electric vehicles and pay for charging stations installation. This is increasing the cost of living in New York State at a time when we already have a high tax burden and people are leaving the state.

    “IOGANY members, as citizens and business owners in New York, want clean air but question what this effort will cost citizens and will reliable energy be available to support our current standard of living. We also question if the current established emission goals can be reached while still providing safe, reliable, cost-effective energy. Cleaner air is a wonderful objective but at what cost and impact on our standard of living. This is why as individuals and members of the oil and gas industry, we support the Clean Energy Choice Bill passage,” said the Independent Oil and Gas Association of New York.

     

    “This Energy Choice legislation is of key importance to all New Yorkers. This bill gives the ability to adequately power and heat our homes, businesses, and institutions that make New York the Empire State. The plumbing and heating contractors of the NYS PHCC have members throughout the entire state, employing thousands of technicians, many union plumbers, who see firsthand how ill-conceived but well-intentioned local and state restrictive energy laws are jeopardizing our energy usage and supply in our great state.  Everyone wants to have efficient, environmentally friendly and reliable energy.  This law would allow for the use of not only renewable gas and hydrogen but also other fuels like bio biodiesel, all made in New York. The NYS PHCC fully supports Congress member Langworthy’s Energy Choice Act,” said Terence O’Brien Co-Executive Director; NYS PHCC.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A pink diamond just sold for over US$ 14 million – no wonder, when you look at the mysteries behind their chemistry

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Elton Santos, Reader in Theoretical and Computational Condensed Matter Physics, University of Edinburgh

    Diamonds might be forever but that doesn’t stop them being bought and sold. One stone thought to have once belonged to Marie Antoinette, the last queen of France, has just sold for US$14 million (£10 million) at an auction in New York – about three times the asking price. Set into a platinum ring and weighing a total of 15.5 grams, the clue to the diamond’s uniqueness is in its name: the Marie-Thérèse pink.

    This 10.38 carat pink diamond has been changing hands for generations, and previously sold at an auction in Geneva for an unknown amount. Pink diamonds are very rare and there are many things that scientists still don’t know about them.

    Diamonds are generally formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle, roughly 150–200 kilometres below the surface. Most natural diamonds crystallise over billions of years, composed almost entirely of carbon atoms arranged in a tightly packed, cube-like structure.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Coloured diamonds are geological anomalies. Variations include pink, blue, orange, yellow, red, green, brown and black, most of which can be explained by impurities in their crystal lattice. Yellow diamonds contain nitrogen, for example, while blue ones contain boron.

    Pink diamonds are not caused by such impurities. Scientists believe that the pink hue arises from a distortion in the diamond’s atomic lattice structure. Intense pressure deep underground creates forces (known as shear forces) that twist and compress atomic layers, which alter how the stone reflects light.

    It’s this “plastic deformation” which results in the pink coloration, reducing the green light in the visible spectrum so that it shifts the overall colour that we see towards pink.

    Only a small fraction of diamonds undergo such extreme and precise pressure and temperature conditions during their formation. These factors make them very difficult to be created and even harder to predict where they will be formed. As a result, pink diamonds are the rarest of all coloured diamonds apart from red ones, which are formed by an even more intense version of the same process.

    Aussie rules

    For decades, the Argyle mine in western Australia was the world’s primary source of pink diamonds (and also red ones), producing over 90% of the global supply. The mine is located at a unique geological area by a so-called lamproite volcanic pipe, as opposed to the more common kimberlite pipes found at most other diamond mines. Without getting too much into the technicalities, lamproite pipes tend to be less explosive and have more unusual minerals like leucite and rich potassium.

    The Argyle mine is located in the Kimberley region, which experienced intense tectonic activity during the Paleoproterozoic era, over 1.6 billion years ago. This meant that the lamproite pipe was formed under extreme pressures and temperatures.

    This is believed to have caused the lattice defects in the diamonds that were pushed to the Earth’s surface, which are responsible for their pink and red colours. The deep mantle depths in the mine were also crucial, since this translates into higher internal pressures and temperatures.

    Even so, less than 0.1% of the diamonds extracted from Argyle were classified as pink (and only 0.00000002% were red, if you calculate the proportion of red carats found). The mine then closed in 2020 after 37 years of production because its reserves were exhausted, making pink diamonds even more scarce and valuable.

    Other known sources include Brazil, India, Russia and South Africa, but these mines yield pink diamonds far less frequently. The rarity of high-quality pink diamonds has made them highly sought-after by collectors and investors alike, as demonstrated by the high sale price of the Marie-Thérèse pink. That diamond was actually pink-purple, with the purple hue caused by hydrogen being absorbed into the atomic structure during the stone’s formation, making it rarer still.

    Advanced techniques involving shining infrared light and X-rays into the stones – respectively known as infrared spectroscopy and high-resolution X-ray diffraction – have provided scientists with insights into the structural changes that cause pink and red diamonds.

    Yet many questions remain unanswered, and the study of pink diamonds continues to be an active area of scientific investigations in mineral physics and crystallography. This has included creating pink diamonds (and other colours such as blues) in the laboratory by replicating the natural processes that form them, but in a more controlled, accelerated way.

    These lab-grown pink diamonds look nearly identical to their natural versions to the human eye, but can yet be differentiated through optical techniques. One method is infrared absorption, which detects how the diamond absorbs light and vibrates at specific frequencies.

    Another clue is the presence of sharp peaks in the visible light spectrum that indicate certain impurities, like hydrogen or nitrogen, which are often found in natural stones. In the same style as a CSI investigation, these techniques provide the last word in whether a pink diamond is from a mine such as Argyle, a lab-grown pink, or a clear natural diamond that has been treated pink artificially.

    Even after years of improving the process for making pink diamonds synthetically, the mechanical distortions responsible for their exotic colour still can’t be replicated precisely under laboratory conditions. Scientists
    don’t understand all the atomic processes involved in their colouring becoming permanent to be able to recreate them perfectly.

    The same is actually also true for other synthetic diamonds, though they are becoming harder and harder to detect as the technology improves. In short, pink diamonds (and red ones) remain among the most remarkable precious stones in the world. Unless and until that changes, we can keep expecting them to change hands for ridiculous amounts of money.

    Elton Santos receives funding from EPSRC, Royal Society, and is affiliated with the Donostia International Physics Center, San Sebastián, Spain.

    – ref. A pink diamond just sold for over US$ 14 million – no wonder, when you look at the mysteries behind their chemistry – https://theconversation.com/a-pink-diamond-just-sold-for-over-us-14-million-no-wonder-when-you-look-at-the-mysteries-behind-their-chemistry-259392

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola Strengthens United States (US) Energy, Mineral Ties with Sonangol-Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Cooperation Agreements

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

    Angola’s national oil company Sonangol has signed two agreements with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – a private university based in Boston, United States (US) – aimed at strengthening cooperation and knowledge-transfer in the fields of oil, gas and critical minerals. The agreements – dubbed the MIT Industrial Liaison Program (MIT-ILP) and MIT Africa – seek to strengthen US-Africa ties by facilitating greater collaboration and skills development opportunities.

    The African Energy Chamber (AEC) – the voice of the African energy sector – commends Angola and Sonangol for forging this strategic alliance with one of the world’s leading innovation institutions. The AEC believes partnerships of this nature are vital to accelerating Africa’s energy transition while equipping the next generation of African professionals with the skills and knowledge required to drive industrial growth, energy security and sustainable resource development.

    The agreements were signed by Sonangol CEO Sebastião Gaspar Martins and MIT Executive Vice President Glan Shor during a meeting presided over by Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas Diamantino Azevedo. A core focus of the meeting and the subsequent agreements was to explore opportunities to support Angolan resource development by leveraging global research, innovation and technology. With goals to increase oil production, diversify the industry through innovative gas projects and advance the development of alternative energy sources such as green hydrogen, Angola has committed to working with global partners to transform ideas into solutions. The agreements serve as catalyst for these objectives by laying the foundation for bilateral research and development.

    Under MIT-ILP, Sonangol and MIT will work together to develop strategic industries such as energy, mining, engineering, construction and infrastructure. According to Minister Azevedo, this program will enable Sonangol to directly interact with MIT research centers in key areas, thereby accelerating innovation in the oil sector while facilitating a just energy transition. Minister Azevedo shared that visiting MIT showed the Angolan delegation how applied research is closely linked with humanity’s real challenges – notably, clean energy, artificial intelligence, resilient infrastructure and digital transformation. MIT-ILP will support the development of Angolan expertise and innovation.

    Meanwhile, MIT Africa features two programs – Global Classroom and Global Teaching Labs – aimed at facilitating knowledge-exchange, staff training, joint research and academic mentoring. Both the Global Classroom program and Global Teaching Labs program allow Angolan educational institutions to tap into US expertise, with the aim of supporting skills development in Angola. Among the Angolan institutions that will directly benefit from this cooperation are the Instituto Superior Politécnico de Tecnologias e Ciências and the Sonangol Research and Development Center. These institutions will be at the forefront of implementing these innovative programs.

    “Through these mechanisms, Angola will be able to benefit from innovative teaching methodologies and collaborative experiences that value national talent and promote the internationalization of our higher education,” Minister Azevedo shared. “These agreements are more than protocols: they are commitments with concrete impact in the short, medium and long term, in the fields of advanced training, scientific research, technological development, energy transition, decarbonization and industrial innovation. I believe that Angola’s future is built on knowledge, serious partnerships and strategic vision.”

    The agreements come as Angola and the US take concrete steps to deepen strategic partnerships within the oil, gas, critical mineral and renewable energy sectors. Meetings held by Minister Azevedo and the US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright this week highlighted areas of cooperation, with the parties committing to working together to achieve a balanced energy transition. Future cooperation will be largely built on the success American companies have had in Angola as well as cooperation in new industries such as critical minerals, renewable energy and infrastructure.

    In the oil and gas space, companies such as ExxonMobil and Chevron continue to make significant strides towards unlocking greater exploration and production opportunities. ExxonMobil has recently extended its license for Angola’s Block 17 – one of the country’s longest-producing assets – in partnership with TotalEnergies. The company is also seeking play-opening discoveries in the offshore Namibe basin while drilling new wells under the country’s Incremental Production Initiative. Chevron is making in-roads in the natural gas sector with its stakes in the Angola LNG plant and upstream gas projects. In late-2024, the company started production at the Sanha Lean Gas Connection project, which increases feedstock for Angola LNG – supporting exports. Chevron also has stakes in the New Gas Consortium, the operator of Angola’s first non-associated project, coming online in late-2025. Leveraging the expertise of these players and strengthened cooperation in research and development, Angola is well-positioned to realize its industry goals. 

    – on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Strengthening support for renewable hydrogen to meet EU energy and climate targets – E-001831/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Since 2020, the EU has set up a comprehensive regulatory framework to support the scale up of renewable hydrogen, including enabling financing under the European Hydrogen Bank (EHB).

    After two auctions already implemented under this financial initiative to support hydrogen production in Europe[1], by the end of 2025 the Commission will launch a third auction, with a budget of up to EUR 1 billion from the Innovation Fund (IF).

    The IF also provides funding to hydrogen-related projects through its regular grants[2]. By the end of 2025, the results of the latest regular grant call (IF24) will be published and a new call will be opened.

    Moreover, to enhance impact from its calls, the IF implemented the ‘as-a-Service’ feature[3], allowing Member States[4] to allocate national funding in addition to the Innovation Fund. This feature will be available again in upcoming calls.

    The Commission also works to establish joint European auctions for imports of renewable hydrogen. Under a Team Europe approach, willing Member States will be able to pool funding and attract competitive bids from third-country producers, thus further supporting the decarbonisation of their industry and transport sectors as well as contributing to wider goals such as the development of key import infrastructure corridors.

    The Commission will launch the Mechanism to support market development of hydrogen[5] in the third quarter of 2025. It will bring together buyers and sellers[6] on an online platform, enabling them to find potential commercial partners, and connecting them with financial support.

    • [1] Through the three auction calls, the EHB will have made available EUR 3 billion in grants: https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-funding-climate-action/innovation-fund/competitive-bidding_en.
    • [2] Under the IF, more than 40 projects covering the full hydrogen value chain are already receiving a total of EUR 3 billion in regular grants.
    • [3] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-funding-climate-action/innovation-fund/competitive-bidding_en#auctions-as-a-service-aaas.
    • [4] Germany, Austria, Spain and Lithuania have already contributed, together, with almost EUR 1.2 billion in national resources in the IF23 and IF24 Auctions.
    • [5] In accordance with the mandate received pursuant to Regulation (EU) 1789/2024 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on the internal markets for renewable gas, natural gas and hydrogen.
    • [6] The Hydrogen Mechanism covers renewable and low-carbon hydrogen and its derivatives (ammonia, methanol, eSAFs).
    Last updated: 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update on Developments in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is continuing to closely monitor and assess the situation regarding the Israeli attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran, providing frequent public updates about developments and their possible consequences for human health and the environment, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Since the military attacks began almost a week ago, the IAEA has been reporting on damage at several of these facilities, including at nuclear-related sites located in Arak, Esfahan, Natanz and Tehran, and their potential radiological impact.

    In his statement to the Board of Governors on 13 June, the morning of the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Director General recalled the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    He also stated that, furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    Later at the special session of the Board of Governors on 16 June 2025, in his statement, the Director General emphasized that, “For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idly by during this conflict.”

    “The IAEA is monitoring the situation very carefully,” he said. “The IAEA is ready to respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.”

    It was the Director General’s third comprehensive statement in four days about the situation in Iran, following the statement to the Board on 13 June and one to the United Nations Security Council later the same day. In addition, the Agency has provided regular updates on its official X account.

    IAEA inspectors remain present in Iran, ready to be deployed at nuclear sites when possible, even though the number of Agency staff has been reduced somewhat in light of the security situation, Director General Grossi said.

    He added: “The Agency is and will remain present in Iran. Safeguards inspections in Iran will continue as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.”

    Calling for maximum restraint to avoid further escalation, Director General Grossi stressed that he was ready “to travel immediately and engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.”

    “Military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon,” he said.

    The IAEA stands ready to act within its statutory mandate to assist in preventing a nuclear accident that could result in grave radiological consequences, he said, adding: “For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue will have to ensue, and this must happen sooner rather than later.”

    Based on information available to it, the IAEA has been reporting on the situation at the nuclear facilities and sites in Iran, including:

    The Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant site was targeted in attacks on 13 June that destroyed the above-ground part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, one of the facilities at which Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235.

    Electricity infrastructure at the plant – including an electrical sub-station, a main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators – was also destroyed. The loss of power to the underground cascades may have damaged the centrifuges there, Director General Grossi told the Board on 16 June.

    Later this week, the IAEA issued an update, saying that based on continued analysis of high- resolution satellite imagery collected after the attacks on the nuclear site at Natanz, the Agency has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts also on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz.

    There has been no radiological impact outside the Natanz site, but circumscribed radiological and chemical contamination inside the enrichment facility, Director General Grossi reported.

    “It was limited to this facility. There was no radiological impact externally,” he said.

    Considering the type of nuclear material at the Natanz facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed inside the facility, he said. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested. However, this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the affected facilities. The main concern inside the facility is the chemical toxicity of the uranium hexafluoride and the fluoride compounds generated in contact with water.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction. As in Natanz, off-site radiation levels remain unchanged at the Esfahan nuclear site.

    On 18 June, the IAEA said in an update that it had information that two centrifuge production facilities in Iran – the TESA Karaj workshop and the Tehran Research Center – were hit. Both locations were previously under IAEA monitoring and verification under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

    At the Tehran Research Center, one building was hit where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings were destroyed where different centrifuge components were manufactured.

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor, under construction, was hit on 19 June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, Director General Grossi said no radiological consequence was expected. While damage to the nearby Heavy Water Production Plant was initially not visible, it is now assessed that key buildings at the facility were damaged, including the distillation unit.

    At present, no damage has been observed at Iran’s other nuclear sites.

    While there so far has been no major radiological incident as a result of the attacks, Director General Grossi stressed the possible nuclear safety and security risks.

    “There is a lot of nuclear material in Iran in different places, which means that the potential for a radiological accident with the dispersion in the atmosphere of radioactive materials and particles does exist,” he said.

    Director General Grossi also emphasized the importance of cooperating and exchanging information with the Iranian authorities.

    “Amid theses challenging and complex circumstances, it is crucial that the IAEA receives timely and regular technical information about the nuclear facilities and their respective sites. This information is needed to promptly inform the international community and ensure an effective response and assistance to any emergency situation in Iran,” he said, adding that he was also in constant contact with other countries in the region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Update on Developments in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is continuing to closely monitor and assess the situation regarding the Israeli attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran, providing frequent public updates about developments and their possible consequences for human health and the environment, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Since the military attacks began almost a week ago, the IAEA has been reporting on damage at several of these facilities, including at nuclear-related sites located in Arak, Esfahan, Natanz and Tehran, and their potential radiological impact.

    In his statement to the Board of Governors on 13 June, the morning of the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Director General recalled the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    He also stated that, furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    Later at the special session of the Board of Governors on 16 June 2025, in his statement, the Director General emphasized that, “For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idly by during this conflict.”

    “The IAEA is monitoring the situation very carefully,” he said. “The IAEA is ready to respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.”

    It was the Director General’s third comprehensive statement in four days about the situation in Iran, following the statement to the Board on 13 June and one to the United Nations Security Council later the same day. In addition, the Agency has provided regular updates on its official X account.

    IAEA inspectors remain present in Iran, ready to be deployed at nuclear sites when possible, even though the number of Agency staff has been reduced somewhat in light of the security situation, Director General Grossi said.

    He added: “The Agency is and will remain present in Iran. Safeguards inspections in Iran will continue as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.”

    Calling for maximum restraint to avoid further escalation, Director General Grossi stressed that he was ready “to travel immediately and engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.”

    “Military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon,” he said.

    The IAEA stands ready to act within its statutory mandate to assist in preventing a nuclear accident that could result in grave radiological consequences, he said, adding: “For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue will have to ensue, and this must happen sooner rather than later.”

    Based on information available to it, the IAEA has been reporting on the situation at the nuclear facilities and sites in Iran, including:

    The Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant site was targeted in attacks on 13 June that destroyed the above-ground part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, one of the facilities at which Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235.

    Electricity infrastructure at the plant – including an electrical sub-station, a main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators – was also destroyed. The loss of power to the underground cascades may have damaged the centrifuges there, Director General Grossi told the Board on 16 June.

    Later this week, the IAEA issued an update, saying that based on continued analysis of high- resolution satellite imagery collected after the attacks on the nuclear site at Natanz, the Agency has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts also on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz.

    There has been no radiological impact outside the Natanz site, but circumscribed radiological and chemical contamination inside the enrichment facility, Director General Grossi reported.

    “It was limited to this facility. There was no radiological impact externally,” he said.

    Considering the type of nuclear material at the Natanz facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed inside the facility, he said. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested. However, this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the affected facilities. The main concern inside the facility is the chemical toxicity of the uranium hexafluoride and the fluoride compounds generated in contact with water.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction. As in Natanz, off-site radiation levels remain unchanged at the Esfahan nuclear site.

    On 18 June, the IAEA said in an update that it had information that two centrifuge production facilities in Iran – the TESA Karaj workshop and the Tehran Research Center – were hit. Both locations were previously under IAEA monitoring and verification under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

    At the Tehran Research Center, one building was hit where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings were destroyed where different centrifuge components were manufactured.

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor, under construction, was hit on 19 June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, Director General Grossi said no radiological consequence was expected. While damage to the nearby Heavy Water Production Plant was initially not visible, it is now assessed that key buildings at the facility were damaged, including the distillation unit.

    At present, no damage has been observed at Iran’s other nuclear sites.

    While there so far has been no major radiological incident as a result of the attacks, Director General Grossi stressed the possible nuclear safety and security risks.

    “There is a lot of nuclear material in Iran in different places, which means that the potential for a radiological accident with the dispersion in the atmosphere of radioactive materials and particles does exist,” he said.

    Director General Grossi also emphasized the importance of cooperating and exchanging information with the Iranian authorities.

    “Amid theses challenging and complex circumstances, it is crucial that the IAEA receives timely and regular technical information about the nuclear facilities and their respective sites. This information is needed to promptly inform the international community and ensure an effective response and assistance to any emergency situation in Iran,” he said, adding that he was also in constant contact with other countries in the region.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Update on Developments in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is continuing to closely monitor and assess the situation regarding the Israeli attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran, providing frequent public updates about developments and their possible consequences for human health and the environment, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Since the military attacks began almost a week ago, the IAEA has been reporting on damage at several of these facilities, including at nuclear-related sites located in Arak, Esfahan, Natanz and Tehran, and their potential radiological impact.

    In his statement to the Board of Governors on 13 June, the morning of the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the Director General recalled the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    He also stated that, furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    Later at the special session of the Board of Governors on 16 June 2025, in his statement, the Director General emphasized that, “For the second time in three years, we are witnessing a dramatic conflict between two IAEA Member States in which nuclear installations are coming under fire and nuclear safety is being compromised. The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idly by during this conflict.”

    “The IAEA is monitoring the situation very carefully,” he said. “The IAEA is ready to respond to any nuclear or radiological emergency.”

    It was the Director General’s third comprehensive statement in four days about the situation in Iran, following the statement to the Board on 13 June and one to the United Nations Security Council later the same day. In addition, the Agency has provided regular updates on its official X account.

    IAEA inspectors remain present in Iran, ready to be deployed at nuclear sites when possible, even though the number of Agency staff has been reduced somewhat in light of the security situation, Director General Grossi said.

    He added: “The Agency is and will remain present in Iran. Safeguards inspections in Iran will continue as required by Iran’s safeguards obligations under its NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) Safeguards Agreement, as soon as safety and security conditions allow.”

    Calling for maximum restraint to avoid further escalation, Director General Grossi stressed that he was ready “to travel immediately and engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts, in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran, wherever necessary.”

    “Military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon,” he said.

    The IAEA stands ready to act within its statutory mandate to assist in preventing a nuclear accident that could result in grave radiological consequences, he said, adding: “For the IAEA to act, a constructive, professional dialogue will have to ensue, and this must happen sooner rather than later.”

    Based on information available to it, the IAEA has been reporting on the situation at the nuclear facilities and sites in Iran, including:

    The Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant site was targeted in attacks on 13 June that destroyed the above-ground part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, one of the facilities at which Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235.

    Electricity infrastructure at the plant – including an electrical sub-station, a main electric power supply building, and emergency power supply and back-up generators – was also destroyed. The loss of power to the underground cascades may have damaged the centrifuges there, Director General Grossi told the Board on 16 June.

    Later this week, the IAEA issued an update, saying that based on continued analysis of high- resolution satellite imagery collected after the attacks on the nuclear site at Natanz, the Agency has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts also on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz.

    There has been no radiological impact outside the Natanz site, but circumscribed radiological and chemical contamination inside the enrichment facility, Director General Grossi reported.

    “It was limited to this facility. There was no radiological impact externally,” he said.

    Considering the type of nuclear material at the Natanz facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed inside the facility, he said. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested. However, this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the affected facilities. The main concern inside the facility is the chemical toxicity of the uranium hexafluoride and the fluoride compounds generated in contact with water.

    At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility, which was under construction. As in Natanz, off-site radiation levels remain unchanged at the Esfahan nuclear site.

    On 18 June, the IAEA said in an update that it had information that two centrifuge production facilities in Iran – the TESA Karaj workshop and the Tehran Research Center – were hit. Both locations were previously under IAEA monitoring and verification under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

    At the Tehran Research Center, one building was hit where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured and tested. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings were destroyed where different centrifuge components were manufactured.

    The Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor, under construction, was hit on 19 June. As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, Director General Grossi said no radiological consequence was expected. While damage to the nearby Heavy Water Production Plant was initially not visible, it is now assessed that key buildings at the facility were damaged, including the distillation unit.

    At present, no damage has been observed at Iran’s other nuclear sites.

    While there so far has been no major radiological incident as a result of the attacks, Director General Grossi stressed the possible nuclear safety and security risks.

    “There is a lot of nuclear material in Iran in different places, which means that the potential for a radiological accident with the dispersion in the atmosphere of radioactive materials and particles does exist,” he said.

    Director General Grossi also emphasized the importance of cooperating and exchanging information with the Iranian authorities.

    “Amid theses challenging and complex circumstances, it is crucial that the IAEA receives timely and regular technical information about the nuclear facilities and their respective sites. This information is needed to promptly inform the international community and ensure an effective response and assistance to any emergency situation in Iran,” he said, adding that he was also in constant contact with other countries in the region.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: NOV Delegation Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Artificial Intelligence (AI) Push in African Energy Projects

    A high-level delegation from global energy services company NOV has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place on September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. With a focus on digitization, a wealth of knowledge in oilfield services and a dedication to balancing operational efficiency with sustainable development, NOV is well-positioned to lead dialogue around the future of energy development in Africa. Underscoring the company’s commitment to unlocking technology-driven solutions in Africa, the NOV delegation comprises Arthur Ename, Vice President, Business Development: Africa; Cobie Loper, Senior Vice President, Operators and Geographical Sales; Johann Jansen van Rensburg, Director: Sub-Saharan Africa; and Marien Ibiaho, Area Sales Manager: Europe & Africa. The delegation will participate in a variety of panel discussions and technical workshops, providing insight into innovative tools to unlock rapid, low-carbon growth in Africa.

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

    With an extensive presence in Africa, NOV delivers a range of solutions for the continent’s oil and gas industry. Key markets include Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, the Republic of Congo, Angola, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt. The company’s cutting-edge technologies and services support clients to enhance operational efficiency while spearheading sustainable development, with its portfolio of capabilities ranging from drilling to well construction, completion and control to offshore rigs and platform repurposing to service and repair. With over 150 years’ experience and a global footprint, NOV represents a strong partner for African oil and gas projects.

    Looking ahead, NOV strives to consolidate its position as a leading energy service provider. In 2025, the company rolled out ChatGPT Enterprise – OpenAI’s most advanced generative AI platform – to advance AI-driven innovation. The enterprise has been deployed across its global workforce, putting cutting-edge tools in the hands of over 25,000 employees. For Africa, this technology will support energy projects by supporting decision-making, insights and innovation. Meanwhile, the company’s Drilling Beliefs & Analytics solution continues to gain traction globally and has been applied across 20 million feet of drilling operations in Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America. This solution leverages AI to deliver real-time insights into critical well conditions during the drilling process.

    Beyond the oil and gas sector, the company also has extensive experience in emerging industries such as the energy transition. Capabilities include geothermal solutions, hydrogen solutions, lithium extraction, offshore and onshore wind, and more. With oil and gas as the focus, NOV offers a range of services that support operators reduce their emissions while scaling-up output. The company is also committed to local content and workforce development, with training initiatives, skills development programs and partnerships serving as a catalyst for capacity building in the markets in which is operates. By working closely with African partners, NOV is creating jobs, enhancing skills and empowering communities.

    “Now more than ever, Africa requires innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency while reducing emissions across oil and gas projects. Companies such as NOV provide the technology and expertise to deliver these goals, and as such, play a prominent role in the industry. Looking ahead, as African countries look to scale-up operations and reduce their climate footprint, NOV’s solutions will continue supporting clients safely produce energy while minimizing environmental impact,” states Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice President, African Energy Chamber.  

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

    Sharif Salim Al-Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has joined African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies to discuss collaborative opportunities in oil and gas. Taking place on September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, the event is the premier platform for Africa’s energy industry. Al-Olama’s participation is expected to open new doors for multilateral deals and partnerships.  

    The UAE has emerged as Africa’s largest source of foreign direct investment, with investments from Emirati companies totaling $110 billion between 2019 and 2023. This reflects a broader trend by Emirati companies to expand their portfolios in Africa, with strengthened cooperation set to unlock a wealth of development opportunities for African nations. As African countries pursue new sources of finance to advance projects in oil, gas and logistics, UAE expertise and technology will prove invaluable. During AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Al-Olama is expected to share insights into opportunities for UAE-Africa collaboration.  

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

    Looking to consolidate its position as a major player in Africa’s energy landscape, the UAE has strengthened ties with African nations in recent months. A deal signed with Morocco will see the UAE support the development of the Africa-Atlantic gas pipeline – transporting Nigerian gas to North Africa and then on to Europe. The UAE will help mobilize financing for the project through its Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund. As of May 2025, the feasibility and preliminary engineering studies for the pipeline were complete. Agreements have also been signed with Tanzania for the operation and modernization of port infrastructure while the UAE and Kenya signed a landmark comprehensive economic partnership agreement in 2025. The UAE also launched the UAE-Africa Gateway initiative in 2025, aimed at enhancing investment opportunities for Emirati companies in the sub-Saharan African region. The initiative seeks to mobilize private sector investment to advance African projects and strengthen UAE-Africa cooperation.  

    The UAE’s state-owned oil and gas companies are also expanding their presence in Africa. Notably, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) is deepening its footprint across the continent, with strategic investments in exploration and infrastructure development. Recent milestones include ADNOC’s international arm XRG acquiring a 10% stake in Mozambique’s offshore Rovuma Basin Area 4 concession. The acquisition includes stakes in the operational Coral South FLNG project, the planned Coral North FLNG project and the Rovuma LNG projects. Collectively, these projects have a target production capacity of 25 million tons per annum. In Egypt, ADNOC partnered with energy major bp to establish Arcius Energy – a natural gas platform to unlock the country’s upstream potential. The platform aligns with ADNOC’s international expansion plans.  

    Beyond oil and gas, UAE-based companies have played an instrumental role in strengthening Africa’s trade and logistics sector. Companies such as DP World and Abu Dhabi Ports have expanded their presence across the continent. DP World operates six African ports while Abu Dhabi Ports have recently extended operations into Guinea, Egypt and Angola. In the clean energy space, Emirati companies are leading projects in solar, green hydrogen and power. Notably, Masdar has committed $2 billion to renewable energy projects in Africa through 2030, unlocking significant opportunities for African countries. AMEA Power is investing in a series of renewable energy projects across the continent, including $620 million in a 300MW wind project in Ethiopia; a 120 million solar project in South Africa; a 1GW green hydrogen development in Mauritania; two battery storage projects in South Africa; a 150 MW solar plant in Angola; among others. Currently, the company has more than 2.6 GW of clean energy projects either in operation of under construction in Burkina Faso, Djibouti, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Togo and Tunisia.  

    “The UAE has emerged as a strong partner for African countries seeking to advance the development of their oil, gas, clean energy and infrastructure industries. By expanding their presence across the market, partnering with African firms and mobilizing capital for impactful projects, Emirati companies are playing a major role in supporting Africa’s economic growth,” states Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice President, African Energy Chamber.  

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –