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Category: Renewable Hydrogen

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jorgovanka Tabaković: Full support for a stable macroeconomic environment

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Dear colleagues, esteemed hosts, Mr Colangeli, Mr Petrović,

    Many times in life, everything seemed almost hopeless – bombing, COVID, many smaller or more personal crises – but life has always inevitably returned to normal. Never the same, but still normal. What is destroyed is rebuilt, what is broken is fixed, but only people remain permanently damaged by the behaviours they have experienced, and they remain outside of the normality that implies living in accordance with natural laws and cycles and in accordance with divine laws. And that is the greatest loss for humanity, but also for each individual. Especially for those for whom unnatural states offer an illusion of fulfilment – an illusion, and one of a limited duration. Anyone who doesn’t understand how illusory those feelings are – I reminded my fellow bankers yesterday – should read the book “The Circulation of Elites” by Vilfredo Pareto or Peter Turchin’s book on the hyperproduction of elites, of which there are more and more, while the seats in parliament, leadership positions in banks, and other institutions are limited in number. There is no room for everyone who believes they deserve a place in the elite.

    And now, a response to my friend and colleague, Mr Zoran Petrović:

    These days
    We owe a debt to future days
    and souls unborn
    Even if it means a sacrifice
    that won’t be recognised,
    acknowledged or cared for
    For it is only when good times pass
    heavy days come
    and people have none to blame
    that they will remember that someone     
    once knew how to create much from little
    because he respected even those
    who tripped him up
    and those who envied him
    They will recall the one who dared to stand    
    to guard his roots and take the future in his hands
    For he believed in humankind.
    The rage will pass, the children will grow
    The immature will learn what wise men know
    Some will always blame others
    for being somebody’s pawns
    for not realising in time
    that they lost much and gained little
    and that time – once gone – can’t be reclaimed.

    We won’t be able to recover what was missed in the first part of the year, but we will do our best to make up for everything that was lost.

    And before I move on to the topic of the state’s relationship with foreign investors – because of whom I put all other obligations aside to be here with you, just as I stand with you through every challenge you face – I would like to share some good news with you. News that illustrates how someone can always create something great from something small and leave it as a gift to the future. As of today, Serbia will have over 50 tonnes of gold in its FX reserves – and those who understand economics know that even the great Yugoslavia, since World War II, never had that much. This only illustrates what can be achieved with skill, knowledge and ability, as well as the determination not to let others do our job worse than us.

    Esteemed colleagues, honoured hosts,

    Let us remind ourselves of Adam Smith, and what he says in “The Wealth of Nations”:

    “It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker, that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest”, said Adam Smith. Everyone has their own interest and views movements from the perspective of their own interest, while the state is the one that considers the common good and works in the interest of all. When we go to the butcher, the baker, or anywhere else, we don’t address the humanity of the butcher or the baker. We don’t even appeal to their vanity, and we never talk to them about our needs. Instead, we speak about their advantages. For the most sustainable form of cooperation is one in which each side sees some benefit for themselves. This is the cooperation that endures. This does not mean that altruism does not exist, but it is most important to rely on predictable interests, rather than on good will.

    When we apply this in the context of investments and policies, while taking into account the specificities of the time in which we operate, contributing to investment growth requires that we first question ourselves on a personal level, and then collectively. If we simply wait for others to provide us with ideal conditions, without examining what we can do ourselves, then we are already set up for failure.

    In Serbia, we have ensured a favourable business environment, and it is up to the economy to take advantage of it – which it is doing successfully. Of course, when the period of the pandemic is analysed from a certain time distance, there will be individuals who will comment on what could have been done differently. Regardless of professional integrity, when evaluating any decision each of us must consider the context of the time and circumstances in which it was made. And that means we should draw lessons from everything that has happened and is happening, and never have a one-sided perspective. If, under difficult geoeconomic conditions, you manage to resolve inflation and ensure high growth in GDP, wages, and profits, while preserving fiscal parameters and FX reserves – I’d like to see the person who would say that Serbia doesn’t have good policies!

    What are the conditions?

    • We are working in a time of sudden and significant changes across all areas.
    • We are living in a time of growing divisions in the world – not only between economies but also within national economies – with increasingly pronounced social polarisation and a deepening gap between the rich and the poor.
    • We are making decisions in a period marked by forced measures, as a response to the measures of others, which were also imposed by necessity.
    • We are entering a new era in which the common denominator for all developments is uncertainty, and the source of success lies in creativity of approach!

    What should the responses be – global and local?

    • Cooperation instead of division;
    • Proactive rather than reactive policy;
    • Respect for the short term, but without losing focus on the long term and on sustainable growth;
    • The common good above personal interest!

    And let us not forget that, as important as it is to make a good decision, it is equally important to avoid making a bad one! And it is well known that investments are never bad; only our decisions can be such.

    Therefore, I will now talk about the investment environment in Serbia, global trends in investing, and our responses.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    I assume that the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the National Bank of Serbia is not investment, although there is a direct and strong connection and interdependence. If we consider that a stable and predictable economic environment is the first pillar of sustainable investment, then the association is clear!

    Similarly, I believe that the relatively stable exchange rate of the dinar to the euro is the first association with the National Bank of Serbia, both for citizens and for the economy! And that stability, which makes decision-making and long-term project planning easier, is an important pillar of the investment environment.

    I also believe that the best answer to the question of whether we have created a favourable investment environment is provided by the data.

    • Fixed investment made up around 16% of GDP in 2014, while government investment stood at 2.2% of GDP. After ten years, fixed investment came to account for over 24% of GDP, and government investment exceeded 7.3% of GDP.
    • The implementation of investment projects has not only significantly improved the overall infrastructure, it has also had a multiplier effect on new investments.
    • The number of formally employed persons increased by almost 400 thousand and it is much easier to get a job today.
    • The unemployment rate, which used to exceed 20%, dropped to 8.6%, and youth unemployment rate was cut by more than a half.
    • The average GDP growth rate of Serbia over the past seven years of nearly 4%, and we are talking about real growth, speaks volumes about the environment we have created.
    • Even under the conditions of extremely challenging global circumstances and the slow recovery of external demand, our growth of 3.9% last year was one of the highest in Europe.

    A job well done is always the best marketing, and so Serbia’s image in the world has changed significantly.

    • Crucially, last year we obtained the status of an investment-grade country, a status we have long deserved.
    • And the fact that investors have long rated us as an investment-grade country is evident from the data, which shows that over the past seven years, an average of around EUR 4 bn in foreign direct investments have been invested in Serbia annually, or 6.8% of GDP on average. A record was set last year with EUR 5.2 bn.
    • Around 55% of these inflows go to export-oriented sectors, thus contributing to their growth even under conditions of anaemic external demand.
    • The fact that around 80% of foreign direct investments consist of investments in equity capital and reinvested earnings shows that investors in Serbia are expanding existing projects and launching new ones, despite the challenges in their home markets.  These investments simultaneously bring new technology and more modern equipment, as well as new knowledge, which has also enabled the growth of overall factor productivity.

    And when individuals – because they truly are few – ask us whether we are able to maintain stability without depleting FX reserves, and how long we can defend the exchange rate, I respond with a question: And did anyone believe that Serbia, during fiscal consolidation, when everyone predicted a decline in GDP, would achieve growth? We  achieved growth, just as during the pandemic we experienced the smallest decline in GDP compared to all other economies. These are the results of well-calibrated policies and the recognition of opportunities, which are based on the diversification of markets, sources of financing, and projects.

    Moreover, it is a fact that no one can dispute, that our FX reserves are at an exceptionally high level, measured by all criteria, and they cover nearly seven months of goods and services imports! In the reports of all rating agencies, one of the key elements that positively distinguishes us from countries with comparable credit ratings is precisely the high level of FX reserves, which we have built over the past more than ten years.

    No less important – we have become part of SEPA, for which we have long been prepared, but now we have the opportunity to make payment transactions with EU countries as well more efficient and cheaper. I say payment transactions with EU as well because we have long introduced in the domestic payments, which account for the majority of daily payments by citizens and businesses, the most modern services based on transactions that are completed in just 1.2 seconds. We have also developed a modern DOMESTIC payment card, taking care about the independence and reliability of the national payment system. And what is the EU doing now? It is developing its own card system, not wanting to depend on other systems and their operational stability.

    For our DinaCard, we have carefully selected partners, guided by the goal of international functionality, but also full security and independence of our system. We have achieved this through a partnership with Discover, which will positively impact the economy of Serbia, primarily merchants, who will now be able to accept payments by these cards, issued anywhere in the world.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    I said that we follow all relevant global trends, including global investment trends. We analyse where global capital is going today as the world rapidly changes under the influence of technological transformation, energy transition, and geopolitical tensions, because investments have never been evenly distributed across regions, sectors, or asset types. We are in a phase of structural capital reallocation on a global level.   

    One trend that stands out is digital transformation and the overwhelming allocation of the majority of capital towards artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, big data, cybersecurity, and fintech. These are no longer sectors of the future; they are the sectors of today, and here, funds from the United States and China dominate. In Serbia as well, the IT sector is experiencing strong growth, as seen in the export value of EUR 4.13 bn last year, which is ten times higher compared to ten years ago, when it was only around EUR 400 mn. The fact that its share in total service exports has increased from around 12% to nearly 29% confirms that this is substantial growth.

    Another direction is green and sustainable investment, focusing on renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydrogen, with funds also turning towards regenerative agriculture. Serbia’s potential in this area is significant, and investments are increasingly following environmental, social, and governance standards.

    The third trend is regionalisation, or investing closer to home markets (nearshoring), as a result of supply chain disruptions caused by the outbreak of the pandemic and the energy crisis. Shifting production closer to the European market opens up opportunities for countries like Serbia, which has an excellent geographic location, much like our DinaCard, which is expanding both East and West. Many companies are increasingly choosing Serbia as a manufacturing hub precisely for this reason, but especially because of the skilled workforce and free trade agreements with many countries, in whose conclusion a great deal of effort has been invested.

    The fourth trend is infrastructure projects and the return of the state as an investor, including investments in infrastructure: roads, railway, energy, telecommunications, and digital infrastructure… Serbia stands out in this regard with strong investments in all parts of the country. I would like to remind you, Mr Colangeli, of the presentation of the EBRD’s Transition Report, which dealt with navigating industrial policy, where you stated that by establishing good infrastructure, such as roads, railway, electricity, and the internet, Serbia facilitated investment and the opening of factories in its less developed regions. Such a policy has contributed to reducing regional income inequality, which is a goal as important as the quality of investments.

    However, one of the important questions is: what next?

    When it comes to the National Bank of Serbia, investors, as well as all agents in the country’s economic system, can count on our full support for a stable macroeconomic environment.   

    • According to our May projection, inflation will continue to slow down  and by the end of the year approach the target midpoint of 3% – the level around which it will hover until the end of the projection horizon.  The data for May inflation, according to our now-cast model, support such an outcome, and I believe the data to be released on Thursday will confirm this.
    • In June last year, we began to ease monetary policy at a cautious pace, assessing that it should remain restrictive for some time yet.
    • Caution is important always, but even more so today when we are witnessing pronounced volatility in global commodity and financial markets. In such circumstances, it is expected that global inflation will decline somewhat more slowly, and that global economic growth will be lower due to disruptions in trade flows and production chains, as well as weaknesses in key growth drivers such as foreign trade, investments, and consumption.
    • In Serbia, past monetary policy easing has fully passed through to interest rates in the money market and dinar lending market, while the easing of the European Central Bank’s monetary policy has affected the price of euro borrowing. With the growth in credit demand due to the increase in disposable income, we have a y-o-y growth in credit activity of 10.5% in April, which is also one of the channels supporting investments.

    Ladies and gentlemen, Mr Colangeli, Mr Petrović,

    I will reiterate that a job well-done is the best marketing, and also the best indicator as to how we will work in the future.

    I will repeat today that for the continued growth and development of every economy and society, including ours, stability and business certainty are key. Therefore, we must preserve stability in a challenging and competitive global environment, where changes are happening faster than ever in all areas of life and work! Without it, even the best-designed investment policies will not yield sustainable results!

    On behalf of the National Bank of Serbia, I can promise:

    • that relative exchange rate stability has no alternative,
    • that we will support every investment that is in the interest of Serbia and our citizens.

    We carefully follow all the creativity of the new era and respond cautiously – so that no measure becomes a target for us.

    And let us never forget those who laid the foundations of the market economy, as I began with Adam Smith: The baker does not bake bread because he wants to feed us, but because he wants to make a profit. May our cooperation continue as honestly and openly as that.

    I thank you and wish you a successful conference!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australia targets green economy opportunities in Southeast Asia with trade mission to Malaysia

    Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies

    With Southeast Asia on track to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2040, Australia is working to tap this huge potential, including with a trade and investment mission to Malaysia this week.

    Led by Austrade, an Australian delegation of 30 representatives from 21 organisations is in Malaysia to identify new opportunities, particularly in the green economy.

    This mission is part of the Albanese Labor Government’s efforts to help Australian businesses create new trade opportunities in priority markets.  

    Malaysia is rapidly positioning itself as a renewable energy hub, with major investments in solar, hydrogen, and waste-to-energy. This mission will set the foundation for long-term collaboration, with Australia home to leading expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a strong education and training sector.

    The delegation, who are participating in an Austrade organised program, will attend the 2025 Energy Asia Conference in Kuala Lumpur, which features events including the Australian Energy Innovation Showcase, university partnerships for energy literacy, and tailored business-matching sessions.

    The Albanese Government is working to boost engagement with Southeast Asia through practical, business-focused initiatives. In the past year alone, we delivered a record $1 billion in trade outcomes for Australian businesses, launched the $2 billion Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility, and upgraded the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.  

    Southeast Asia Investment Deal Teams are also working to increase Australian investment in the region’s green energy infrastructure.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – CBAM: Deal with Council to simplify EU carbon leakage instrument

    Source: European Parliament

    The changes to the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) are part of simplification efforts to reduce the administrative burden for SMEs and occasional importers.

    Parliament and Council today agreed on changes to the CBAM. These changes are part of the “Omnibus I” simplification package presented on 26 February 2025, which aims to simplify existing legislation in the fields of sustainability and investment.

    Co-legislators supported a new de minimis mass threshold whereby imports up to 50 tonnes per importer per year will not be subject to CBAM rules. It replaces the current threshold exempting goods of negligible value. The new threshold exempts the vast majority (90%) of importers − mainly small and medium-sized enterprises and individuals − who import only small quantities of CBAM goods. The climate ambition behind the mechanism remains unchanged, as 99% of total CO2 emissions from imports of iron, steel, aluminium, cement and fertilisers will still be covered by the CBAM. The co-legislators included safeguards to ensure this figure and to prevent circumvention of the rules.

    Co-legislators also agreed on changes to simplify imports covered by the CBAM such as the authorisation process, the calculation of emissions and verification rules as well as the financial liability of authorised CBAM declarants, while strengthening anti-abuse provisions.

    Quote

    After the deal, rapporteur Antonio Decaro (S&D, IT) said: “The CBAM is designed to prevent carbon leakage and protect Europe’s cement, iron, steel, aluminium, fertiliser, electricity, and hydrogen industries. We have answered calls from companies to simplify and streamline the process and exempted 90% of importers of CBAM goods to facilitate competitiveness and growth for our businesses. As the CBAM will still cover 99% of total CO2 emissions, we have maintained the EU’s environmental ambitions and remain fully committed to a just transition and to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.”

    Next steps

    Today’s deal has still to be endorsed by both Parliament and Council. It will enter into force three days after publication in the EU Official Journal.

    Background

    The EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism is the EU’s tool to equalise the price of carbon paid for EU products operating under the EU emissions trading system (ETS) with that of imported goods, and to encourage greater climate ambition in non-EU countries. In early 2026, the Commission will assess whether to extend the scope of the CBAM to other ETS sectors and how to help exporters of CBAM products at risk of carbon leakage.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Radenka Maric Named a Fellow of The Electrochemical Society

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn President Radenka Maric has been named a Fellow of The Electrochemical Society, a highly prestigious designation awarded annually to a select group of scientists and engineers from around the globe.

    Maric is a world leader in electrochemistry at surfaces and interfaces, and in nanomaterials development for a wide range of renewable energy applications and sensors.

    The Electrochemical Society announced that she is among 12 researchers worldwide who have been selected by their fellow scientists and engineers for the 2025 Class of ECS Fellows. She will be inducted this fall at the 248th ECS Meeting in Chicago.

    The designation “Fellow of The Electrochemical Society” was established in 1989 for advanced individual technological contributions to electrochemistry and solid-state science and technology, leadership in the field, and service to the Society.

    Maric was named the 17th president of the University of Connecticut in 2022, having previously served as UConn’s vice president for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship since 2017 and a UConn faculty member since 2010.

    She is a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor in Sustainable Energy in UConn’s Departments of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Materials Science and Engineering.

    Her research has significantly advanced scientific understanding of materials and catalysts, and she has developed innovative manufacturing processes involved in fuel cell technologies, storage materials, and electrochemical sensors for health applications, leading to higher-performance, commercially viable clean energy systems.

    Maric earned her Ph.D. in material science from Kyoto University and started her career as a member of the technical staff at the Japan Fine Ceramic Center, and later at Toyota Motors. She has been a member of The Electrochemical Society since 1999.

    She moved to the U.S. in 2001, working for the startup nGimet to continue her work playing a pivotal role in advancing the development of electrochemical sensors, fuel cells, and materials and processes related to battery storage, hydrogen production, and various sensor technologies for industrial applications.

    In addition to her newly announced honor as a Fellow of The Electrochemical Society, Maric holds the rank of Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2019); the National Academy of Inventors (2019); and the International Association of Advanced Materials (2020). She is also an elected member of the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering.

    Her many recognitions include receiving a Fulbright Chair Professor appointment at the Politecnico di Milano, Italy (2016-2017), a fellowship from the Japan Organization for the Promotion of Science (2012), the Leadership Award from the National Research Council of Canada (2009), and the Hartford Business Journal’s Women in Business Award (2020).

    Maric’s scholarly work has resulted in more than 300 articles in refereed journals and conference proceedings, 21 book chapters, and invited review articles in major journals, one book published, and two books under preparation.

    She also has six issued patents and 11 published patent disclosures. She serves on numerous review panels for the Department of Energy, the European Commission, and Horizon 2020, serves as a board member of the International Academy of Electrochemical Energy Science, and is a board member of the Connecticut Innovations and Eli Investment Fund.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Tosyalı has Become Türkiye’s Largest and Europe’s Third-Largest Steel Producer

    Türkiye’s global steel producer Tosyalı (www.TosyaliHolding.com.tr) continues its global growth with nearly 50 facilities across 3 continents, a liquid steel production capacity of 15 million tons, and approximately 15,000 employees.

    Drawing attention with its investments in high value-added qualified steel production by determining sustainability as the main agenda, Tosyalı is rapidly climbing the steps in world steel production with its production complexes in different geographies of the world, green steel products produced with advanced technology, R&D and innovation, strong equity and highly competent employees.

    Amid the challenging global conditions in 2024, a difficult year for steel producers worldwide, Tosyalı achieved a rapid rise in the global rankings, adding yet another success to its record. According to data released by the World Steel Association, Tosyalı produced 9.12 million tons of liquid steel in 2024 and climbed 21 places compared to the previous year, reaching 46th position in the world rankings. With a 54.3% increase in production, Tosyalı has become one of the world’s top 3 fastest-growing steel producers. Today, Tosyalı has reached the position of Türkiye’s largest steel producer while also strengthening its strong position in the global arena as Europe’s third-largest steel producer. Additionally, the company entered the world’s top 50 steel producers, crossing a significant milestone for the industry.

    Tosyalı Holding Chairman of the Board Fuat Tosyalı: “Our goal is to become one of the world’s top 20 steel producers”

    Stating that Tosyalı‘s global success is based on well-planned strategic investments and qualified steel production, Fuat Tosyalı, Chairman of the Board of Tosyalı Holding, said: “As Tosyalı, we have identified sustainability, efficiency and economies of scale as three important priorities. With this strategy, we continue to grow in a healthy and stable manner with eco-efficiency-oriented investments in Türkiye and in different geographies around the world. We completed Tosyalı Demir Çelik İskenderun Plant, the largest industrial investment of our country in recent years, despite the major earthquake disaster and started the first production in 2023. This plant eliminated Türkiye’s 4 million tons of flat steel imports and started to make a significant contribution to value-added steel exports. We are taking firm steps towards becoming one of the most important and strategic integrated iron and steel production centers not only in the Mediterranean basin and Africa, but also in the world with our fourth phase investments in our five-phase Tosyalı Algérie production complex, which is one of the driving forces of our success as a global steel company to date. We have also initiated investments in Libya as a strategic step in Africa. With our investments in Türkiye, Algeria, Spain and Libya, we are strengthening our position as a global steel producer day by day.

    As Tosyalı, our total investment amount in the last 5 years is over 6 billion USD and the majority of these are sustainability-oriented investments. Our investments in R&D, advanced technology, circular production, and clean energy sources such as solar and hydrogen continue without interruption. At the same time, we are focusing on efficiency, which is also one of the main issues of sustainability, and we tend to produce more by consuming fewer resources. We continue to achieve sustainable growth thanks to our completely independent, yet dynamic and efficient structure that analyzes everything from the mine to the final product within the Tosyalı ecosystem. Thus, we continue our rapid yet steady rise in the world rankings. Between 2020 and 2024, we increased our global crude steel production by 110%. Due to this progress, we have entered the world’s top 50 companies, becoming Türkiye’s largest and Europe’s third-largest steel producer. Among the top 50 companies, we are the only one to continuously rise in the global rankings every year. Our steady and sustainable growth continues, and with our production figures, we have taken a very strong step toward moving up to the next league on a global scale. In the next 4–5 years, as our ongoing investments begin production, we will move forward with confidence toward our goal of becoming one of the world’s top 20 steel companies.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Tosyali Holding.

    Contact:
    Serap Öztürk
    sozturk@medyaevi.com.tr

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Algerian President to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid $50B Hydrocarbon Drive

    Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of the Republic of Algeria, will speak at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference. President Tebboune’s participation comes as the country paves the way for a $50 billion investment drive over the next four years and underscores Algeria’s commitment to working with international partners to bolster exploration and production.

    Under President Tebboune’s leadership, Algeria has implemented bold development plans for the oil and gas industry, striving to consolidate its position as an international export hub. The country has undertaken an ambitious investment drive and continues to attract foreign capital to the market through strengthened partnerships and improved business terms. With a focus on promoting frontier acreage, increasing gas production and creating investment opportunities in green hydrogen and regional infrastructure projects, President Tebboune is laying the foundation for long-term, sustainable economic growth in Algeria. At AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, President Tebboune is expected to share insights into this strategy, highlighting upcoming investment opportunities and regulatory reform.

    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.

    As one of Africa’s biggest oil and gas producers, Algeria is leveraging policy reform to attract new investment in exploration projects. A cornerstone of this strategy is the country’s ongoing licensing round, which offers six onshore blocks to international and domestic companies. Launched in November 2024, the bid round will host a bid opening ceremony in June 2025, with the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources in Algeria expected to award at least five of the six blocks. This latest licensing round falls part of a five-year plan which features multiple bid rounds, aimed at offering acreage in high-potential geological zones and combining a mix of greenfield and brownfield assets. This multi-year strategy showcases the commitment of the government to increasing the competitiveness of investing in Algeria.

    Beyond the licensing rounds, President Tebboune has enacted a series of policy reforms aimed at improving the business environment for foreign operators. These include the introduction of a Hydrocarbon Law in 2019, offering improved fiscal terms to those of 2013 legislation. Since the enactment of this law, production has rebounded significantly in Algeria, with gas sales alone projected to remain at 10 billion cubic feet per day until the end of the decade. Targeting 200 billion cubic meters in gas production over the five years, the Hydrocarbon Law of 2019 will continue playing an instrumental part in attracting investment to the market.

    On the back of this law, a number of international oil companies have expanded their investments in Algeria. ExxonMobil and Chevron are exploring for hydrocarbon resources in the Ahnet, Gourara and Berkine basins; Eni and Equinor are revitalizing the In Salah and In Amenas fields; while TotalEnergies is leading gas appraisal and development in Timimoun. In tandem, Algeria’s national oil company Sonatrach is rapidly expanding its portfolio, with strategic investments in the Zarzaitine oilfield and revived operations at the Alrar gas complex. In 2024, Sonatrach made eight new hydrocarbon discoveries and in 2025, seeks to achieve 1.2 million barrels in daily production.

    Beyond oil and gas, President Tebboune has set green hydrogen development as a priority for the country, underscoring the role the resource will play in facilitating a just energy transition in Algeria. The country is emerging as a green hydrogen leader in Africa, with projects such as the SoutH2 Corridor project – a 3,300 km pipeline network developed in partnership with European stakeholders – transforming the market. The project repurposes natural gas pipelines to transport green hydrogen, leveraging the continent’s strategic resources and growing European demand to bolster exports. Operations are planned for 2030, with the project set to transport up to four million tons of hydrogen per year. Looking ahead, investments in green hydrogen are expected to diversify the market while creating new business opportunities for regional firms.

    “Algeria’s diversified energy strategy should serve as a strong example for other resource-rich nations in Africa. By prioritizing oil and gas exploration, reforming policies to attract spending and working closely with international partners to establish sustainable export networks, Algeria is establishing itself as an international energy hub. President Tebboune has played an instrumental role in making the country what it is today: an attractive, growth-oriented market,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ASTANA, June 18 (Xinhua) — The second China-Central Asia Summit was held in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, on June 17, 2025. Below is the full text of the Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit.

    Astana Declaration of the Second Central Asia-China Summit

    On June 17, 2025, the second Central Asia-China summit was held in Astana with the participation of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K.K. Tokayev, the Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic S.N. Japarov, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan E.Rahmon, the President of Turkmenistan S.G. Berdimuhamedov and the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh.M. Mirziyoyev.

    The heads of state of the Central Asia-China format, recognizing the strategic importance of the region and recognizing the importance of further deepening multilateral cooperation based on equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit, declare their commitment to further strengthening friendly relations, deepening political trust and expanding economic cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and China.

    In a friendly atmosphere, the parties summed up the results of comprehensive cooperation between the Central Asian states and China, summarized the experience of multifaceted mutually beneficial cooperation, outlined guidelines for further cooperation and stated the following.

    1. The Parties highly appreciate the results of the first Summit of Heads of State of the Central Asia-China format (May 19, 2023, Xi’an), the meeting of foreign ministers of the Central Asia-China format (December 1, 2024, Chengdu and April 26, 2025, Almaty), and also actively support the development of priority areas of cooperation at the level of heads of relevant ministries, departments and various forms of interaction.

    The Parties agree that the development of fruitful multifaceted cooperation between the Central Asian states and China meets the fundamental interests of all countries and their peoples. Against the backdrop of changes unprecedented in a century, the Parties, based on favorable prospects for the peoples of the region, confirm their desire to jointly create a closer community of common destiny for Central Asia and China.

    Based on a comprehensive review of the experience of cooperation between Central Asia and China, the Parties noted the formation of the “Central Asia-China spirit”, characterized by mutual respect, mutual trust, mutual benefit, mutual assistance and the promotion of joint modernization through high-quality development. It is important to fully develop this spirit, which is intended to serve as a basis for the development of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between the states of the Format.

    2. The Parties reaffirm their support for the protection of each other’s fundamental interests in the spirit of mutual understanding and respect.

    China firmly supports the development path of the Central Asian states, their efforts to safeguard their national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as their independent foreign and domestic policies. The Central Asian states reaffirm their commitment to the one-China principle and recognize that there is only one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory, and the PRC government is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China. The Central Asian states oppose “Taiwan independence” in any form and firmly support the Chinese government’s efforts to reunify the country.

    The parties reaffirmed their determination to strengthen centuries-old good-neighborliness, lasting friendship and reliable partnership, and noted the high relevance of signing a multilateral Treaty on Eternal Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation, which will contribute to the long-term, healthy and sustainable development of relations between China and the Central Asian states.

    The Parties reaffirm their commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for the state independence, equality, sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

    The Parties express their firm determination to uphold multilateralism, the generally recognized principles and norms of international law and international relations, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and accessible and inclusive economic globalization, and jointly defend international justice and equality.

    The parties will make efforts to further develop fruitful, multifaceted interaction within the framework of strengthening cooperation in various areas of the “Central Asia – China” format.

    3. The heads of state of the participating countries of the Secretariat of the Central Asia-China format note the important role of the Secretariat of the Central Asia-China format in implementing the initiatives and tasks set by the heads of state, and also expressed their readiness to fully support the work of the Secretariat and provide it with favorable conditions and guarantees for development.

    The Heads of State of the participating States of the Secretariat of the Central Asia-China format, on the basis of consensus, welcome the assumption of office of Secretary-General Sun Weidong from 1 May 2025.

    4. The Parties confirm their commitment to strengthening the central role of the UN in ensuring international peace, security and sustainable development, disseminating universal human values – peace, development, justice, equality, democracy and freedom, and oppose attempts to politicize human rights issues. In this regard, they agreed to co-author the UN General Assembly resolution “On world unity for a just peace, harmony and development.”

    The parties confirm their commitment to strengthening political dialogue and cooperation within the UN and other international organizations, exchanging views and coordinating positions on current regional and international issues.

    The Parties welcome the proclamation of 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust” in accordance with UN General Assembly Resolution No. 78/266 of 21 March 2024 and the holding of the “International Forum for Peace and Trust” in 2025 in Ashgabat.

    The parties welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolution declaring Central Asia a “Zone of Peace, Trust and Cooperation,” adopted at the initiative of Turkmenistan.

    The parties also welcome the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the Resolution “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan”, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the status of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan.

    The Parties note the importance of developing a Global Security Strategy based on UN principles and generally recognized principles and norms of international law, taking into account current realities and trends in global inequality.

    The Parties reaffirm their strong commitment to the principles and objectives of international humanitarian law and highly appreciate the efforts of Kazakhstan and China as co-initiators of the Global Initiative to Strengthen Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law. The Parties take note of the Global Initiative aimed at strengthening the principles of humanity and creating conditions conducive to achieving peace and breaking the endless cycle of violence in armed conflicts.

    The parties participating in the SCO support China’s chairmanship of the SCO in 2024-2025 and are ready to provide all possible assistance in the successful holding of the SCO Summit in Tianjin.

    5. The parties highly value the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and will continue to increase work to align this initiative with their national development strategies for the Central Asian states.

    6. The Parties shall make efforts to strengthen the multilateral trading system based on WTO rules, support the adaptation of international trade rules to the changing world, and promote the liberalization and simplification of trade and investment procedures.

    The Parties reaffirm the importance of intensifying the WTO discussion on development issues and emphasize the need to support open, inclusive, sustainable, resilient, diversified and secure global supply chains.

    WTO member states also support the aspirations of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to join the WTO.

    The interested parties intend to develop cooperation in six priority areas, including unimpeded trade, industry, investment, infrastructure connectivity, green subsoil use and agricultural modernization, and simplification of mutual travel for citizens.

    The parties note the significant potential for trade and economic cooperation between the countries of the Format, express their readiness to use the role of the meeting of ministers of economy and trade “Central Asia – China”, promote high-quality development of trade, promote diversification of trade structure and simplification of trade procedures, update agreements on the promotion and mutual protection of investments between the countries of Central Asia and China, reveal the potential of the working group on unimpeded trade, the Roundtable on Digital Trade and the mechanism “Dialogue on Cooperation in the Field of Electronic Commerce”, as well as intensify interaction in new industries.

    The parties intend to strengthen investment and industrial cooperation in the field of “green” minerals, alternative energy sources and infrastructure projects, as well as in ensuring the stable and uninterrupted operation of the production chain in the region. The parties expressed interest in strengthening exchanges and cooperation in housing and communal construction, increasing the interconnectivity of digital and green infrastructure, and jointly developing cooperation in the field of infrastructure and engineering construction.

    The parties will continue their efforts to increase the contribution of the Central Asian states and China to ensuring international energy and food security, to develop international transport and logistics routes, and to prevent disruptions in the supply of key products.

    The parties intend to expand the possibilities of transport corridors and cargo containerization in every possible way to simplify transportation as much as possible, strengthen cooperation in the framework of container train movement along the China-Europe route through Central Asia, develop transit and logistics potential, and promote joint projects that serve the interests of the states in the region.

    The parties welcome the start of the implementation of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which is of great importance for the Central Asian region and China.

    The Parties are interested in the active use of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port and the Aktau International Sea Trade Port by large transport and logistics companies of the Parties when transporting goods.

    The parties, with the active participation of multimodal operators and based on geographical location, are developing a logistics mechanism for the railway, automobile and maritime industries in order to develop regular container transportation to expand the export of goods from Central Asian countries and further to world markets.

    The parties welcomed the holding of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) in Turkmenistan in 2025.

    The Parties support raising the level of favourable conditions for international road transport by digitalising permits for international road transport and jointly increasing the exchange of experience and cooperation in the field of sustainable transport.

    The parties noted the importance of the established Central Asia-China Business Council and expressed their readiness to support trade promotion agencies, chambers of commerce and interested organizations in strengthening cooperation in the areas of trade and investment in order to make a greater contribution to the development of trade and economic cooperation between the Central Asian states and China.

    The parties noted the important role of the Central Asia-China Industrial and Investment Cooperation Forum in promoting investment cooperation between the Central Asian states and China, expanding industrial cooperation, and ensuring the stability and efficiency of production and supply chains.

    The parties highly appreciate the mechanism of the meeting of heads of customs services within the framework of the “Central Asia-China” format, are ready to expand the exchange of experience and mutual cooperation in the implementation of the “Smart Customs, Smart Borders and Smart Communications” project, effectively promote practical cooperation in the field of interconnection of relevant services within the framework of the work of checkpoints, “single window”, risk management, simplification of customs procedures, mutual assistance in customs matters.

    7. The Parties believe that building and expanding scientific and technological partnerships and continuously deepening scientific and technological cooperation based on complementary advantages and mutual benefits are of great importance.

    The parties are ready to further intensify the dialogue on scientific and technological development, regularly exchange information on national strategies, priority areas and programs for scientific and technological development, share development experience, and support the holding of the China (XUAR)-Central Asia Cooperation Forum on Scientific and Technological Innovation.

    The parties will actively support exchanges between research institutes and employees, the establishment of a network of partner institutes for the implementation of joint and exemplary projects on the application of technologies, and the creation of platforms for interaction on this basis.

    The Parties support efforts to transfer technology and implement scientific and technological achievements in order to promote economic and social development through scientific and technological innovation.

    The parties shall strengthen cooperation in the field of science and technology, including the exchange of best practices.

    China welcomes the participation of the Parties in the Group of Friends of International Cooperation on AI Capacity Building. The Parties are willing to jointly promote the implementation of the UN General Assembly Resolution on Strengthening International Cooperation on AI Capacity Building.

    The parties noted the importance of the draft UN General Assembly Resolution “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Creating New Opportunities for Socioeconomic Development and Acceleration of the Achievement of the SDGs in Central Asia,” initiated by Tajikistan.

    8. The Parties express their readiness to utilize the potential of cooperation in the field of agriculture, including promoting investment in agriculture, industry interaction and cooperation in the field of trade in agricultural products. The Chinese side welcomes the active promotion of agricultural products of Central Asian countries, including through such important exhibitions as the China International Import Expo in Shanghai.

    The parties will intensify efforts in the development of “smart” agriculture, exchange of experience in the implementation of water-saving, green and other highly efficient technologies, as well as best practices in this area.

    The parties agreed to intensify the exchange of technologies and specialists in the field of melioration of arid, saline and alkaline soils, water-saving irrigation, pest control, livestock farming and veterinary medicine, and to strengthen the stress resistance of the agricultural sector with the aim of its sustainable development.

    The Parties reaffirm the need for concerted efforts to ensure food security in the context of a changing climate, and also note the importance of farming in the most environmentally friendly ways that support biodiversity and make efficient use of land resources.

    The parties welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolution “Central Asia Facing Environmental Challenges: Strengthening Regional Solidarity for Sustainable Development and Prosperity”, adopted at the initiative of the Republic of Uzbekistan, which confirms that climate change is one of the most complex problems of our time and creates serious difficulties on the path to sustainable development of all countries.

    The parties also welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolutions “Promoting sustainable forest management, including afforestation and reforestation, on degraded lands, including in drylands, as an effective solution to environmental problems” and “The United Nations Decade of Afforestation and Reforestation in accordance with the Principles of Sustainable Forest Management (2027-2036)”, adopted at the initiative of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

    The parties note the importance of consolidating efforts to improve policies in the area of poverty reduction, increasing employment and incomes of the population and creating jobs. The parties expressed their readiness to intensify cooperation in this area by implementing effective social support programs for the population, exchanging specialists and modern methodologies.

    9. The parties support the establishment of a Central Asia-China partnership on energy development, strengthening cooperation along the entire industrial chain, further expanding cooperation in traditional energy sources, including oil, natural gas and coal, strengthening cooperation in hydropower, solar, wind, hydrogen and other environmentally friendly energy sources, deepening cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, implementing projects using green technologies and clean energy sources, and implementing the concept of innovative, coordinated, green, open and common development.

    The Parties highlight cooperation in the energy sector as an important component of sustainable development of the region. The Parties express their readiness to continue deepening energy cooperation for the purpose of joint high-quality development of the energy industry of all countries in the spirit of mutually beneficial cooperation and taking into account the interests of the Parties.

    10. The interested parties support further expansion of cooperation between China and the Central Asian states along the entire industrial chain of development and use of mineral resources. The Parties will explore the possibility, within the framework of the current legislation of the Parties, of conducting joint work on geological research, exploration of mineral resources and the development of green subsoil use.

    11. The Parties confirm their readiness to hold joint events in such areas as culture, cultural heritage and tourism. The Parties also intend to expand youth exchange mechanisms, develop cooperation in conducting joint archaeological expeditions, research into the history and heritage of the Great Silk Road, preserving and restoring cultural heritage, museum exchanges, and searching for and returning missing and stolen cultural valuables.

    The parties highly appreciated the successful holding of the International High-Level Conference on Glacier Conservation, as well as the documents adopted following the results of this conference (Dushanbe, May 29-31, 2025).

    The parties also welcomed the decision of the UNESCO General Conference to hold its 43rd session in Samarkand in 2025. This event will be an important step in advancing UNESCO’s global agenda and promoting international dialogue in the field of cultural, educational and scientific cooperation.

    The Parties will support the holding of youth festivals, forums and sports competitions, including the organization of the World Nomad Games in 2026, initiated by the Kyrgyz Republic, as a unique event that promotes traditional sports and cultural diversity.

    Interested parties will continue their efforts to mutually establish cultural centers.

    The parties support the joint practice of declaring cultural and tourist capitals in the “Central Asia-China” format.

    The parties highly appreciate the successful holding of the first meeting of education ministers in the “Central Asia – China” format.

    The parties support cooperation between higher education institutions and businesses, the integration of production and education, and the acceleration of the implementation of international cooperation projects in vocational training, including within the framework of the Lu Ban Workshop.

    The Parties support joint scientific research by higher education institutions in such areas as energy, agriculture, medicine and healthcare, and artificial intelligence. The Parties support the establishment of Confucius Institutes and the teaching of the Chinese language in Central Asian countries.

    The parties highly appreciate the establishment by China of the Central Asia-China Poverty Alleviation Cooperation Center, the Central Asia-China Education Exchange and Cooperation Center, the Central Asia-China Desertification Cooperation Center, and the Central Asia-China Unimpeded Trade Cooperation Platform.

    The parties noted the initiative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to create a Global Coalition on Primary Health Care, the purpose of which is to support the fundamental reorientation of health systems towards primary health care throughout the world.

    12. The Parties reaffirmed their commitment to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, which are the main platform and legal basis for the international community to make joint efforts to combat climate change, and emphasized the need to comply with the goals, principles and institutional framework enshrined in the Framework Convention and the Paris Agreement, in particular the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and to promote the full and effective implementation of the provisions of the Framework Convention and the Paris Agreement with an emphasis on the formation of a fair, rational, cooperative and generally beneficial global climate governance system.

    The parties expressed their readiness to hold dialogues within the framework of the “Central Asia – China” format to study the issue of developing and implementing measures to preserve biological diversity and adapt to climate change.

    The parties noted the importance of implementing the Resolution adopted at the 77th session of the UN General Assembly “Sustainable Mountain Development”, which declared 2023-2027 the “Five Years of Action for Mountain Development”, in order to strengthen international cooperation on the mountain agenda and its further effective implementation.

    The parties welcomed the initiatives of the Kyrgyz side aimed at promoting the issues of the mountain agenda and climate change, as well as the holding of the “High-Level Dialogue: Advancing the Mountain Agenda and Mainstreaming the Theme of Mountains and Climate Change” on the sidelines of COP-29 on November 13, 2024 in Baku, and expressed their readiness to explore the possibility of joining the “Declaration on Climate Change, Mountains and Glaciers” initiated by the Kyrgyz side, presented during the said Dialogue.

    The parties took into account the proposal of the Tajik side to create transboundary specially protected natural areas, transboundary corridors and buffer zones for the conservation of individual species of fauna, the restoration and maintenance of populations of rare endangered and migratory species of animals, as well as the exchange of relevant experience and technologies.

    The parties welcomed the accession of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to the Mountain Partnership Negotiating Group, representing the interests of mountain countries on the basis of the UNFCCC.

    The Parties welcome the successful holding of the International Conference “Global Mountain Dialogue for Sustainable Development” in Bishkek on 24-25 April 2025, and also support the holding of the World Mountain Youth Festival (August 2025) and the Second Global Mountain Summit “Bishkek 25” (2027) in the Kyrgyz Republic.

    The parties welcome the initiative to open a regional climate technology center for Central Asia under the auspices of the UN in Ashgabat as a platform for the transfer of technologies for adaptation to climate change and mitigation of its consequences.

    The parties noted the significance of the results of the First Climate Forum, held in Samarkand on April 4-5, 2025, as an important step towards deepening regional dialogue and coordinating approaches to the climate agenda.

    The Parties welcome the successful holding of the Central Asian Climate Change Conference 2025 in Ashgabat in May 2025 on the theme “Achieving the global goal on climate finance through regional and national actions in Central Asia”.

    The parties support the holding of the Regional Climate Summit in Kazakhstan in 2026 under the auspices of the UN, which will give new impetus to climate action in Central Asia and consolidate the climate efforts of the countries of the region.

    In this regard, the Parties call for exploring ways of cooperation within the framework of the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy, whose work is aimed at accelerating the climate transition in Central Asia through support for policies, innovation and partnership.

    13. The Parties believe that stability, development and prosperity in Central Asia meet the common interests of the peoples not only of the six countries, but of the entire world community.

    While strongly condemning terrorism, separatism and extremism in all their forms and manifestations, the Parties expressed their readiness to work together to combat the “three forces of evil”, in particular the cross-border movement of terrorist groups, illegal drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and cybercrime, to ensure the stable and successful progress of cooperation projects and to jointly counteract security threats.

    The parties consider the platform for dialogue on security within the framework of the Dushanbe process on combating terrorism, as well as the initiative put forward by Tajikistan “Decade of Strengthening Peace for Future Generations”, to be important.

    The parties will take joint measures to strengthen cooperation in the field of environmental protection, prevention of large-scale disasters and crises, joint response to the epidemiological situation, as well as in other relevant areas of security.

    The parties confirmed the importance of UN General Assembly Resolution 72/283 of 22 June 2018 on strengthening regional and international cooperation to ensure peace, stability and sustainable development in Central Asia, adopted at the initiative of Uzbekistan.

    The parties welcomed the UN General Assembly Resolution “Readiness of Central Asian countries to act as a united front and cooperate to effectively address and eliminate drug-related problems,” adopted at the initiative of Uzbekistan.

    The parties noted the need to strengthen cybersecurity in the region against the backdrop of the rapid development of information technology and artificial intelligence. The parties intend to use the infrastructure of IT parks in Central Asian countries to implement innovations, launch startups, conduct joint projects and exchange experiences.

    The parties expressed their readiness to regularly exchange information, as well as to apply best practices and advanced experience aimed at ensuring the stable functioning of the information infrastructure in the region.

    The parties are ready, together with the international community, to continue to provide assistance to the people of Afghanistan in maintaining peace and stability, restoring social infrastructure, and integrating into the regional and global economic system.

    The Parties support and advocate the development of Afghanistan as a peaceful, stable, prosperous country free from terrorism and drugs.

    The Parties reaffirm their commitment to actively participate in the Doha process under the auspices of the UN and welcome the efforts in this area undertaken by UNAMA and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.

    The parties welcomed the inclusion of the regional humanitarian logistics centre in Termez, Republic of Uzbekistan, into the UNHCR global network of warehouses for emergency humanitarian response, which will strengthen the ability of the international community to quickly deliver essential supplies to internally displaced persons around the world.

    The Parties highly appreciate the efforts of Kazakhstan to institutionalize the initiative to establish in Almaty the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan with the aim of accelerating the achievement of the SDGs in the region and addressing development challenges in Afghanistan, and also welcome the efforts of the Government of Tajikistan to provide its logistical capabilities for the delivery of international humanitarian aid to the people of Afghanistan.

    The Parties welcomed Turkmenistan’s efforts to create appropriate conditions for the transportation of goods to/from Afghanistan, as well as humanitarian aid through its territory. In this regard, the Parties highly appreciated the commissioning of the Serhetabat-Turgundi and Kerki-Imamnazar railway links, as well as the start of work on the construction of a warehouse complex in the dry port of the Turgundi railway station.

    The Parties note the need for joint efforts in combating the illegal trafficking of drugs and their precursors, the problem of the spread of new psychoactive substances, including through the use of new technologies and means for these purposes, and consideration of the possibility of developing a Joint Anti-Drug Action Plan with the participation of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

    14. The Parties are ready to actively cooperate within the framework of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and, through joint efforts, accelerate the implementation of the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development, ensure peace and security in the region and throughout the world, and promote the exchange and mutual enrichment of civilizations.

    The Parties express their readiness to jointly hold relevant events based on the Resolution of the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations adopted by the UN General Assembly, and to jointly promote the exchange and mutual enrichment of civilizations.

    The Parties support the development of a peaceful, open, secure, cooperative and orderly cyberspace within the framework of the Global Data Security Initiative, emphasize the importance of jointly promoting the Central Asia-China Digital Data Security Cooperation Initiative, deepening practical cooperation in the field of ensuring international information security, jointly combating cybercrime and cyberterrorism, emphasize the key role of the UN in countering threats in the information space, in particular relevant rules in the field of data security, support the development within the UN of universal rules of responsible behavior of states in the information space, call on the international community to sign as soon as possible the UN Comprehensive Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communication Technologies for Criminal Purposes, approved by UN General Assembly Resolution 79/243 of December 24, 2024.

    The Parties emphasize the significant role of the Treaty on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia in strengthening the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. In this regard, the Parties note the need for further development of cooperation between countries within the framework of the Treaty, as well as the establishment of interaction with other regional nuclear-weapon-free zones in the world.

    The parties note the importance of expanding cooperation in the field of biological safety.

    The parties noted Kazakhstan’s efforts to establish the UNESCAP Digital Solutions Centre for Sustainable Development in the Asia-Pacific region.

    15. The Parties declare that, starting from the Second Central Asia-China Summit, they will hold thematic years every two years, with 2025-2026 being declared the “Years of High-Quality Development of Central Asia-China Cooperation”.

    16. The parties express their gratitude to the Kazakh side for the high level of organization of the second Central Asia-China summit.

    The parties decided to hold the third Central Asia-China summit in 2027 in China.

    President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K. Tokayev

    Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping

    President of the Kyrgyz Republic S. Japarov

    President of the Republic of Tajikistan E.Rahmon

    President of Turkmenistan S. Berdimuhamedov

    President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sh. Mirziyoyev

    Astana, June 17, 2025

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Business aviation leader Luxaviation and Haffner Energy join forces to accelerate SAF production and promotion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Business aviation leader Luxaviation and Haffner Energy join forces to accelerate SAF production and promotion

    Luxaviation signals interest in active role in SAF-dedicated entity SAF Zero

    Vitry-le-François, France / Luxembourg (June 18, 2025, 8:00 am CEST) – 

    SAF Zero, a Haffner Energy initiative, is gaining momentum: Luxaviation Group, a leading global operator in the business aviation sector, is exploring an active role in the new entity, both companies announced today at the International Paris Air Show. Luxaviation potential involvement could take the form of cash funding to finance initial development activities, support in the strategic definition and global visibility as well as offtake agreements in relevant SAF Zero projects such as Paris-Vatry SAF. 
    SAF Zero is dedicated to fast-tracking the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by establishing an investment and project development platform that brings key stakeholders together. Combining Haffner Energy’s proprietary technologies and Luxaviation’s experience and strategic positioning in the aviation sector, SAF Zero is to finance and develop industrial SAF production projects. Operating under an exclusive license, SAF Zero will supply Haffner Energy’s technologies to third parties under license agreements, designing, delivering and potentially operating key equipment based on these technologies. 
    “We are thrilled to collaborate with Luxaviation, a powerful partner working alongside us to position SAF Zero as a cornerstone of Europe’s clean aviation strategy ,” said Philippe Haffner, co-founder and CEO of Haffner Energy.
    France-based Haffner Energy relies on its 32-year experience to design, manufacture, supply, license, and operate proprietary disruptive clean fuels solutions, including critical technologies for pathway-agnostic SAF production, using all types of residual biomass and municipal waste. The company has already announced the development of a number of SAF projects, notably Paris-Vatry SAF in France, where full scale production is expected to be reached by 2030 when the next stage of the European SAF mandate kicks in.  
    As a founding partner of SAF Zero, Haffner Energy will provide engineering support and supply of critical equipment as needed for the projects developed by SAF Zero.
    “At Luxaviation, we believe that the future of aviation must be sustainable, and that requires bold partnerships and innovative solutions. Our collaboration with Haffner Energy and our interest in SAF Zero reflect our commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel and driving meaningful change across the industry. By combining our operational expertise with Haffner Energy’s cutting-edge technology, we are taking a decisive step toward a cleaner, more responsible future for aviation,” said Patrick Hansen, CEO of Luxaviation Group. 
    Luxaviation operates one of the largest fleets of private aircraft worldwide. It is actively committed to the decarbonization of aviation through a three-pronged strategy: improving fuel efficiency; reducing emissions by actively increasing SAF use and electrification of ground operations; buying offsets for remaining GHG emissions. Since 2021, Luxaviation’s annual sustainability report tracks progress against targets. In 2023, Luxaviation launched “Go-to-Zero” Investment Fund to foster SAF production. 
    Both Luxaviation and Haffner Energy are members of Project SkyPower, an international CEO-led initiative dedicated to accelerating the development and adoption of SAF. 

    About Haffner Energy
    Haffner Energy designs, manufactures, supplies, and operates biofuel and hydrogen solutions using biomass residues. Its innovative, patented thermolysis technology produces Sustainable Aviation Fuel, as well as renewable gas, hydrogen, and methanol. The company also contributes to regenerating the planet through the co-production of biogenic CO2 and biochar. A company co-founded 32 years ago by Marc and Philippe Haffner, Haffner Energy has been working from the outset to decarbonize industry and all forms of mobility, as well as governments and local communities. More information is available at www.haffner-energy.com.

    About Luxaviation Group
    Headquartered in Luxembourg, Luxaviation Group comprises top-of-the line aviation brands, including Luxaviation, Starspeed, ExecuJet and Paragon, operating across five continents. Services include aircraft management for private and commercial aircraft, private air charter services, and the management and operation of VIP passenger terminals throughout an FBO network of over 110+ facilities worldwide. Luxaviation Group is actively committed to the decarbonization of aviation by supporting the development of sustainable fuels and green infrastructure. More information is available at www.luxaviation.com.

    Media relations
    Haffner Energy
    Laetitia Mailhes
    laetitia.mailhes@haffner-energy.com
    +33 (0)6 07 12 96 76

    Luxaviation Group
    Juliane Thiessen
    Juliane.thiessen@luxaviation.com
    +41 76 356 8251

    Investor relations
    Haffner Energy
    investisseurs@haffner-energy.com 

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff Condemn Trump Administration Decision to Terminate $3.7 Billion in Clean Energy Grants, Urge DOE to Reinstate Them

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Schiff Condemn Trump Administration Decision to Terminate $3.7 Billion in Clean Energy Grants, Urge DOE to Reinstate Them

    Senators Padilla and Schiff: “These unlawful terminations represent a significant setback for American energy independence, and they undermine California and America’s leadership in the globally competitive clean energy industry.”

    “These grants were provided through legally binding contract agreements between recipients and the federal government and, therefore, cannot be canceled on a political whim.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) condemned the Trump Administration’s decision to terminate $3.7 billion in federal funding for clean energy projects across the country, including $845 million in California, and called on the Administration to reinstate them. In the letter to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Chris Wright, the Senators note that these grants were previously awarded through legally binding contract agreements between recipients and the federal government and cannot be canceled on a political whim.

    The projects targeted include the National Cement Company of California which lost $500 million for their Lebec Net-Zero Project to focus on carbon capture and the development of carbon-neutral cement, a manufacturing process that is notoriously emissions-intensive, $270 million for implementing carbon capture at a natural gas power plant in Yuba City, and $75 million for a project focused on testing new technology at Gallo Glass Company furnaces in Modesto.  

    “These grants were provided through legally binding contract agreements between recipients and the federal government and, therefore, cannot be canceled on a political whim. DOE claims that the agency evaluated the investments “on a case-by-case basis to identify waste of taxpayer dollars,” and yet your agency has not provided any information to Congress detailing waste of any kind,” wrote the Senators.

    “DOE’s attacks on cutting-edge clean energy projects run counter to our shared interest in boosting energy production, innovation, and economic vitality. The United States cannot afford to halt our progress and hinder American companies’ efforts to move beyond outdated technologies if we hope to remain competitive and truly energy dominant around the globe. These irrational cancellations will increase energy prices, hamper innovation, and set us backwards as we strive toward a clean energy future. We ask that you reinstate the $3.7 billion in canceled OCED funding so that we may bolster American energy production and maintain our competitive edge,” concluded the Senators.  

    A list of DOE awards terminated is available here.  

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:    

    Dear Secretary Wright: 

    We write with deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) terminations of energy projects in California that were supported by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED). These unlawful terminations represent a significant setback for American energy independence, and they undermine California and America’s leadership in the globally competitive clean energy industry.  We urge you to work with recipients to reinstate their grant awards.    

    On May 30, DOE canceled $3.7 billion in funding for 24 clean energy projects around the country, including in Alabama, Arizona, California, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. In California alone, DOE terminated $845 million in project funding. These terminations are unnecessarily harmful to California’s industries, who often push the cutting edge of innovation forward.    

    One of the largest cancellations targeted the National Cement Company of California Inc., which lost $500 million for their Lebec Net-Zero Project to focus on carbon capture and the development of carbon-neutral cement, a manufacturing process that is notoriously emissions-intensive.  Not only would this project have accelerated decarbonization efforts, but it would have also created hundreds of local jobs in construction and plant operations. Another canceled project in California was $270 million for implementing carbon capture at a natural gas power plant in Yuba City. This project, which supported the same traditional sources of energy that the Trump DOE claims to support, would have helped reduce 95 percent of CO2 emissions from the plant and provided Northern California with more low-carbon electricity. DOE canceled another $75 million for a project focused on testing new technology at Gallo Glass Company furnaces in Modesto.  This project would have reduced natural gas use by 70 percent and would have used union labor to produce glass for California’s wine industry.   

    These grants were provided through legally binding contract agreements between recipients and the federal government and, therefore, cannot be canceled on a political whim.  DOE claims that the agency evaluated the investments “on a case-by-case basis to identify waste of taxpayer dollars,” and yet your agency has not provided any information to Congress detailing waste of any kind.  These terminations follow your agency’s May 15 announcement that DOE would review 179 awards totaling over $15 billion for projects dedicated to updating power grids and supporting the domestic manufacture of batteries, which has created significant chaos and uncertainty in America’s energy and manufacturing sectors. 

    Additionally, it has been reported that DOE may be planning to close OCED, which has contributed to more than 70 percent of staff in that office departing the agency.  In 2021, Congress directed the establishment of OCED in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. OCED’s mission is to advance large-scale demonstration projects to accelerate the deployment and market adoption of energy technologies like clean hydrogen, carbon management, advanced nuclear reactors, and long-duration energy storage.  Until recently, these were bipartisan initiatives.    

    DOE’s attacks on cutting-edge clean energy projects run counter to our shared interest in boosting energy production, innovation, and economic vitality. The United States cannot afford to halt our progress and hinder American companies’ efforts to move beyond outdated technologies if we hope to remain competitive and truly energy dominant around the globe. These irrational cancellations will increase energy prices, hamper innovation, and set us backwards as we strive toward a clean energy future. We ask that you reinstate the $3.7 billion in canceled OCED funding so that we may bolster American energy production and maintain our competitive edge.     

    Thank you and we look forward to your response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Frank Jotzo, Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy and Director, Centre for Climate and Energy Policy, Australian National University

    Photo by Jie Zhao/Corbis via Getty Images

    Australia is among the world’s top three exporters of LNG and second-largest exporter of coal. When burned overseas, these exports result in 1.1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year – almost three times Australia’s domestic emissions.

    Emissions embedded in Australia’s exports do not count towards our national emissions targets. But they contribute to climate change – and they’re the reason for Australia’s international reputation as a fossil-fuel economy.

    On the bright side, Australia boasts huge potential for low-cost renewable energy and a knack for resource industries.

    We can, and should, become a “renewable energy superpower”. This term refers to the potential for Australia to use its bountiful renewable energy resources to make commodities such as iron, ammonia and other products and fuels in “green” or low-emissions ways.

    So how does Australia give salience to this idea on the global stage, while our fossil fuel exports continue? The solution could be a new net-zero target for Australia, in which emissions from green exports are tallied up against those from fossil fuel exports.

    Australia can become a renewable energy superpower.
    Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

    Reinvigorating Australia’s climate policy

    If the clean energy transition eventuates, green exports from Australia will rise over time. This will help reduce the use of coal, gas and oil elsewhere in the world.

    Meanwhile, coal exports – and later, gas exports – will fall. This will happen irrespective of Australia’s policies, as the world economy decarbonises and demand for fossil fuels slows.

    At some point, we can expect emissions avoided by our green commodity exports to surpass those from remaining coal and gas exports. Australia would then reach what could be termed “net-zero export emissions”.

    Adopting this net-zero target as a national policy would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s green-export ambitions. It could also invigorate Australia’s climate policy and boost investor confidence.

    A different approach would be to set targets only for green exports, and this could be how we get started. Ultimately, a net-zero target wrapping up both green and fossil-fuel exports would speak most directly to the goal of tackling climate change, and is likely to have more impact on the international stage.

    A net-zero export target would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s ambition to develop green export industries.
    Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

    Getting to net-zero exports

    The below chart shows an illustrative decline in emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG (liquified natural gas) exports, out to 2050.*


    Authors’ calculations based on Australian Energy Update 2024, Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors 2024, IEA World Energy Outlook 2024

    It’s hard to pin down when Australia might reach net-zero exports. It depends on several factors. How quickly will the cost of clean energy and green-commodity technologies fall? How competitively can Australia produce green goods compared to other nations? What policies will be adopted in Australia and overseas – and will they work?

    The magnitudes are sobering. Take iron, for example. Australia currently exports 900 million tonnes of iron ore a year. This is processed overseas to about 560 million tonnes of iron.

    To fully compensate for emissions currently embedded in Australia’s coal and gas exports, Australia would need to process about the same amount of green iron – around 550 million tonnes – on home soil every year.

    To reach this figure, we assume 0.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent is created per tonne of green iron, compared to about 2.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent per tonne of iron resulting from conventional blast furnace production.

    Achieving this would require keeping iron ore production at current levels and processing it all in Australia, which is unlikely to be realistic.

    Thankfully, the task of reaching net-zero export emissions will be smaller in future, as global coal and gas demand falls. But exactly how this will translate to Australian exports is highly uncertain.

    Let’s suppose Australia’s exports evolved on the same trajectory as they might under current climate policies and pledges for the global coal and gas trade.

    In this case, embedded emissions from Australia’s coal and gas exports would be about 360 million tonnes in 2050. This includes about 120 million tonnes from LNG exports – much of it locked in by the extension to Woodside’s North West Shelf project off Western Australia.

    Hypothetically, the 360 million tonnes of emissions could be negated by a mix of green exports. They include 102 million tonnes of green iron (saving 204 million tonnes of CO₂), and 11 million tonnes of green ammonia (saving about 23 million tonnes of CO₂), and the remainder covered by a combination of green aluminium, silicon, methanol and transport fuels.

    Judgement calls would be needed about which commodities to include in the target. The composition of green exports suggested above is akin to assumptions about Australia’s potential global market share outlined by The Superpower Institute.

    Importantly, it’s hard to predict with certainty the greenhouse gas emissions displaced elsewhere in the world by Australia’s green exports. So, the estimates should be understood as broad illustrations, and not as exact as the accounting used to calculate countries’ domestic emissions.

    The precise year chosen for reaching a net-zero target for export emissions may well be less important than the commitment that, at some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports. This would establish the notion that Australia has the capacity and willingness to help the world decarbonise.

    At some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports.
    David Gray/Getty Images

    A positive agenda for change

    The export target could be part of Australia’s updated emissions pledge due to be submitted to the United Nations by September this year. The pledge, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), is required by signatories to the Paris Agreement.

    Each nation is expected to detail its national emissions target for 2035. But nations can make additional pledges towards the world’s climate change effort. You could call it an “NDC+”.

    So Australia could outline an indicative goal for net-zero exports – perhaps alongside other pledges such as leveraging climate change finance for developing countries, or helping our Pacific neighbours adapt to climate change impacts.

    As a large fossil fuels exporter, Australia would earn kudos for showing it has a positive agenda for change.

    And if Australia wins the bid to host the COP31 climate conference next year, a plan to reduce export emissions could be a major rallying point.

    * Underlying data for the chart showing an expected decline in future emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG exports:

    Exports in 2022–23: coal, 9.6 exajoules (EJ); LNG, 4.5 EJ, from Australian Energy Update. This was multiplied by an emissions factor 90.2 for coal (MtCO₂-e/EJ) and 51.5 for LNG (MtCO₂-e/EJ), as drawn from the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors

    Exports for 2035 and 2050: this assumes a trend aligned with the IEA’s Announced Pledges Scenario, as outlined in the World Energy Outlook 2024. Note the percentage changes from 2023 to 2035 and 2050 for coal (-45% and -73% respectively) and for LNG (+9% and -47% respectively.) These figures do not distinguish between steam coal for power and metallurgical coal.

    Frank Jotzo leads research projects on climate, energy and industry policy. He is a commissioner with the NSW Net Zero Commission and chairs the Queensland Clean Economy Expert Panel.

    Annette Zou works on research projects on climate policy and decarbonisation and has previously worked with The Superpower Institute

    – ref. Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how – https://theconversation.com/australia-could-become-the-worlds-first-net-zero-exporter-of-fossil-fuels-heres-how-259037

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Jotzo, Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy and Director, Centre for Climate and Energy Policy, Australian National University

    Photo by Jie Zhao/Corbis via Getty Images

    Australia is the world’s third largest exporter of gas and second largest exporter of coal. When burned overseas, these exports result in 1.1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year – almost three times Australia’s domestic emissions.

    Emissions embedded in Australia’s exports do not count towards our national emissions targets. But they contribute to climate change – and they’re the reason for Australia’s international reputation as a fossil-fuel economy.

    On the bright side, Australia boasts huge potential for low-cost renewable energy and a knack for resource industries.

    We can, and should, become a “renewable energy superpower”. This term refers to the potential for Australia to use its bountiful renewable energy resources to make commodities such as iron, ammonia and other products and fuels in “green” or low-emissions ways.

    So how does Australia give salience to this idea on the global stage, while our fossil fuel exports continue? The solution could be a new net-zero target for Australia, in which emissions from green exports are tallied up against those from fossil fuel exports.

    Australia can become a renewable energy superpower.
    Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

    Reinvigorating Australia’s climate policy

    If the clean energy transition eventuates, green exports from Australia will rise over time. This will help reduce the use of coal, gas and oil elsewhere in the world.

    Meanwhile, coal exports – and later, gas exports – will fall. This will happen irrespective of Australia’s policies, as the world economy decarbonises and demand for fossil fuels slows.

    At some point, we can expect emissions avoided by our green commodity exports to surpass those from remaining coal and gas exports. Australia would then reach what could be termed “net-zero export emissions”.

    Adopting this net-zero target as a national policy would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s green-export ambitions. It could also invigorate Australia’s climate policy and boost investor confidence.

    A different approach would be to set targets only for green exports, and this could be how we get started. Ultimately, a net-zero target wrapping up both green and fossil-fuel exports would speak most directly to the goal of tackling climate change, and is likely to have more impact on the international stage.

    A net-zero export target would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s ambition to develop green export industries.
    Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

    Getting to net-zero exports

    The below chart shows an illustrative decline in emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG (liquified natural gas) exports, out to 2050.*


    Authors’ calculations based on Australian Energy Update 2024, Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors 2024, IEA World Energy Outlook 2024

    It’s hard to pin down when Australia might reach net-zero exports. It depends on several factors. How quickly will the cost of clean energy and green-commodity technologies fall? How competitively can Australia produce green goods compared to other nations? What policies will be adopted in Australia and overseas – and will they work?

    The magnitudes are sobering. Take iron, for example. Australia currently exports 900 million tonnes of iron ore a year. This is processed overseas to about 560 million tonnes of iron.

    To fully compensate for emissions currently embedded in Australia’s coal and gas exports, Australia would need to process about the same amount of green iron – around 550 million tonnes – on home soil every year.

    To reach this figure, we assume 0.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent is created per tonne of green iron, compared to about 2.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent per tonne of iron resulting from conventional blast furnace production.

    Achieving this would require keeping iron ore production at current levels and processing it all in Australia, which is unlikely to be realistic.

    Thankfully, the task of reaching net-zero export emissions will be smaller in future, as global coal and gas demand falls. But exactly how this will translate to Australian exports is highly uncertain.

    Let’s suppose Australia’s exports evolved on the same trajectory as they might under current climate policies and pledges for the global coal and gas trade.

    In this case, embedded emissions from Australia’s coal and gas exports would be about 360 million tonnes in 2050. This includes about 120 million tonnes from LNG exports – much of it locked in by the extension to Woodside’s North West Shelf project off Western Australia.

    Hypothetically, the 360 million tonnes of emissions could be negated by a mix of green exports. They include 102 million tonnes of green iron (saving 204 million tonnes of CO₂), and 11 million tonnes of green ammonia (saving about 23 million tonnes of CO₂), and the remainder covered by a combination of green aluminium, silicon, methanol and transport fuels.

    Judgement calls would be needed about which commodities to include in the target. The composition of green exports suggested above is akin to assumptions about Australia’s potential global market share outlined by The Superpower Institute.

    Importantly, it’s hard to predict with certainty the greenhouse gas emissions displaced elsewhere in the world by Australia’s green exports. So, the estimates should be understood as broad illustrations, and not as exact as the accounting used to calculate countries’ domestic emissions.

    The precise year chosen for reaching a net-zero target for export emissions may well be less important than the commitment that, at some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports. This would establish the notion that Australia has the capacity and willingness to help the world decarbonise.

    At some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports.
    David Gray/Getty Images

    A positive agenda for change

    The export target could be part of Australia’s updated emissions pledge due to be submitted to the United Nations by September this year. The pledge, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), is required by signatories to the Paris Agreement.

    Each nation is expected to detail its national emissions target for 2035. But nations can make additional pledges towards the world’s climate change effort. You could call it an “NDC+”.

    So Australia could outline an indicative goal for net-zero exports – perhaps alongside other pledges such as leveraging climate change finance for developing countries, or helping our Pacific neighbours adapt to climate change impacts.

    As a large fossil fuels exporter, Australia would earn kudos for showing it has a positive agenda for change.

    And if Australia wins the bid to host the COP31 climate conference next year, a plan to reduce export emissions could be a major rallying point.

    * Underlying data for the chart showing an expected decline in future emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG exports:

    Exports in 2022–23: coal, 9.6 exajoules (EJ); LNG, 4.5 EJ, from Australian Energy Update. This was multiplied by an emissions factor 90.2 for coal (MtCO₂-e/EJ) and 51.5 for LNG (MtCO₂-e/EJ), as drawn from the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors

    Exports for 2035 and 2050: this assumes a trend aligned with the IEA’s Announced Pledges Scenario, as outlined in the World Energy Outlook 2024. Note the percentage changes from 2023 to 2035 and 2050 for coal (-45% and -73% respectively) and for LNG (+9% and -47% respectively.) These figures do not distinguish between steam coal for power and metallurgical coal.

    Frank Jotzo leads research projects on climate, energy and industry policy. He is a commissioner with the NSW Net Zero Commission and chairs the Queensland Clean Economy Expert Panel.

    Annette Zou works on research projects on climate policy and decarbonisation and has previously worked with The Superpower Institute

    – ref. Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how – https://theconversation.com/australia-could-become-the-worlds-first-net-zero-exporter-of-fossil-fuels-heres-how-259037

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Taking the mystery out of volcanic gas sampling

    Source: US Geological Survey

    When you visit California’s volcanic areas, you might notice white clouds of steam rising from hot springs, bubbling pools, and fumaroles, especially in the morning. But there’s more than just water vapor escaping from beneath the surface. Invisible gases like carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide (that rotten-egg smell!), nitrogen, methane, and helium are also making their way up from deep underground. These gases are like a volcano’s vital signs – they tell us what’s happening with magma movement deep in the Earth’s crust and can provide early warnings of changing volcanic activity.  
     
    The trick is collecting high-quality samples without contamination from the atmosphere or equipment. Scientists use pre-evacuated glass bottles with special stoppers, often holding an alkaline solution that helps capture acidic gases and concentrate the non-reactive ones like helium. The real challenge is safely getting close enough to sample near gas vents, which are usually surrounded by unstable ground and hot, corrosive conditions.  

    To sample volcanic gases, inverted funnels connected to an evacuated sample bottle by tubing are sealed over a fumarole. Painter’s poles are used to reach gas vents across dangerous (hot, unstable, or fragile) ground. USGS photo by Jennifer Lewicki.

    Our sampling setup depends on what we’re working with. Sometimes we insert a titanium tube directly into a fumarole or use an inverted plastic funnel buried in steaming ground or placed on a bubbling pool’s surface – like you see in this photo from the Salton Buttes geothermal field. For dangerous or hard-to-reach features, we might need long lengths of tubing and a painter’s pole to keep our distance. Once we’ve gotten a good seal and purged all the air from our system, we open the sample bottle and let gas flow in while steam condenses – a process that can take up to 30 minutes. We often cool the bottle with a wet cloth to encourage condensation.  
     
    As part of our comprehensive monitoring program, CalVO scientists regularly sample gases from California’s moderate to very-high-threat volcanoes, including Medicine Lake volcano, Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic Center, Clear Lake Volcanic Field, Mono Lake Volcanic Field, Long Valley Caldera, Mammoth Mountain, Coso Volcanic Field, and Salton Buttes. Every sample helps us better understand and monitor these sleeping giants.  
     
    Learn more about CalVO’s monitoring work!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada-Italy Joint Statement

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today in Kananaskis, Alberta, Prime Ministers Mark Carney and Giorgia Meloni met on the margins of the G7 Summit and reaffirmed the vitality and strategic value of the Canada-Italy partnership and their fruitful cooperation within the UN, NATO and the G7 to foster global peace, the rule of law, economic growth and prosperity and strong international institutions.

    The Prime Ministers took stock of the implementation of the Italy-Canada Roadmap for Enhanced Collaboration, including the launch of a Joint Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence, a Joint Statement on Critical Minerals and Critical Raw Materials Cooperation, actions to enhance cooperation in defence, outer space, science, technology and innovation, and mutual economic prosperity. As agreed during Prime Minister Carney’s recent visit to Rome, a Canada-Italy Energy Dialogue will be launched in the coming months to enhance cooperation on critical minerals, conventional and clean energies, and hydrogen.

    Acknowledging the unprecedented challenges facing the world since the Roadmap was launched last year, and the need to seize on new opportunities, Prime Ministers Carney and Meloni announced additional cooperation between Canada and Italy the following areas:

    Prosperity and Innovation

    Building on the strong foundation enabled by the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, the Leaders committed to deepening commercial ties and diversifying trade between Canada and Italy. This would include organizing high level business and investment trade missions, aimed at foster greater engagement between respective industry and private capital stakeholders, in priority sectors such as energy, life sciences, defence and infrastructure.

    Noting also the recent high tempo of interaction between Canadian and Italian researchers and industrial stakeholders on artificial intelligence, quantum computing, clean technologies, nuclear and photonics, the Prime Ministers encouraged the pursuit of further opportunities for cooperation between Italian and Canadian organizations in areas such as nuclear energy and medical isotopes, hydrogen, AI and supercomputing and quantum. They likewise looked forward to proposals for future work by the Joint Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence on AI for Health and AI for Science.

    Security and Defence

    The two Leaders signaled the importance of closer collaboration as NATO Allies, including through information exchange and high-level dialogue to address current and future security challenges. They also recognized the opportunities for increased engagement and expanded commercial ties in the defence sector, as both countries seek to enhance their respective industrial defence bases.

    Finally, the two leaders expressed appreciation for the continuity of priorities and results between their respective G7 Presidencies and signaled the importance of close coordination on key global challenges, including in the lead up to the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Namibia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 17, 2025

    • Namibia’s economy faces challenges from heightened global trade policy tensions, increased weather shocks, a structural shift in the global diamond market, and high structural unemployment.
    • Ensuring macroeconomic stability requires maintaining fiscal prudence while creating space for growth-enhancing measures, managing the monetary policy to safeguard the peg, and enhancing the resilience of the financial sector.
    • To generate employment through inclusive private sector-led growth that is weather-shock-resilient, bold structural reforms are essential. Additionally, a comprehensive strategy is needed to leverage the potential opportunities presented by recent oil discoveries.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the Article IV Consultation for Namibia.[1] The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for this consultation.[2]

    Namibia’s economic growth decelerated from 5.4 percent in 2022 to 3.7 percent in 2024 as a decline in production in response to lower diamond prices outweighed momentum stemming from rising gold and uranium prices. Oil exploration plateaued in 2024 following a spike in 2023, while agriculture contracted sharply due to the drought of 2023–24, the most severe in a century. Inflation has fallen, reflecting a drop in food and fuel prices in international markets.

    Looking ahead, growth is projected to remain subdued in the near and medium term. The end of the drought is expected to boost growth in 2025; however, increased global trade policy uncertainty, particularly related to U.S. tariffs, and the weak diamond market will dampen momentum, with growth forecast at 3¾ percent for 2025 and 2026. Over the medium term, growth is projected to be about 3 percent, constrained by structural rigidities despite increased public capital expenditure. Average CPI inflation is projected to ease to 4.1 percent in 2025 and remain around 4.5 percent in the medium term.

    Risks to the outlook are tilted to the downside. Key external downside risks include commodity price fluctuations, further worsening of global trade tensions, a deepening of economic fragmentation, and tighter global financial conditions. Domestic downside risks include social discontent resulting from continued high unemployment and inequality and increased volatility associated with weather shocks. Upside risks include an easing of global trade policy tensions and faster development of oil, gas, and green hydrogen projects.

    Executive Board Assessment[3]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They took positive note of Namibia’s economic resilience, with slowing inflation and improved external position, despite the challenging external environment and welcomed the new government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and build resilience to climate shocks. Noting the subdued growth outlook reflecting global trade policy uncertainty and domestic structural rigidities, high unemployment, and inequality, Directors emphasized the need for further efforts to harness Namibia’s economic potential and raise per capita income by promoting a private sector led, inclusive, weather resilient, and diversified economy.

    Directors welcomed the authorities’ commitment to maintaining fiscal discipline and creating space for growth enhancing measures. They called for sustained and larger fiscal consolidation over the medium term to entrench the favorable public debt dynamics and strengthen the external position. Directors stressed the need to accelerate fiscal reforms including enacting a comprehensive civil service reform to contain the wage bill, state owned enterprise reforms, strengthening public financial and investment management, and enhancing tax administration to solidify fiscal consolidation. At the same time, they recommended increasing public investment to enhance growth, expanding social protection, and building resilience to weather shocks. They encouraged the authorities to continue their efforts to establish, with Fund technical assistance, a strong governance framework for the sovereign wealth fund and a natural resource management framework to safeguard long term macroeconomic stability and support economic development.

    In the absence of capital outflows, Directors recommended gradually aligning the policy rate with that of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to safeguard the currency peg, taking advantage of SARB’s rate reductions. They stressed, however, that the Bank of Namibia should remain vigilant to economic conditions.

    Directors welcomed the continued progress in enhancing financial sector resilience, notably through the introduction of the bank resolution policy. They encouraged the authorities to continue to monitor risks including from the sovereign bank nexus and household debt. Directors recommended finalizing additional policy measures, including counter cyclical capital buffers and strengthened cooperation on crisis resolution. Continued efforts to strengthen the AML/CFT framework are crucial to expedite removal from the FATF grey list.

    Directors highlighted that bold structural reforms are essential to fostering sustainable, inclusive, and private sector led growth and improving external competitiveness. They recommended addressing key barriers, including by improving human capital and reducing skill mismatches, enhancing the business climate, strengthening governance, and fostering digitalization. Directors supported developing a set of policies aimed at harnessing prospective oil, gas, and green hydrogen for economic diversification and job creation.

    It is expected that the next Article IV Consultation with Namibia will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

     

    Namibia: Selected Economic Indicators, 2022–30

    Population (2024, million):                                      3.0                           Per-capita GDP (2024, USD):                                                        4471.8

    Quota (current, millions of SDR, percent of total):  54.6                          Poverty (2015, percent of national poverty line):                         17.4

    Main exports:                                                          Diamonds, Fish, Gold, Uranium, Copper.

    Key export markets:                                                South Africa, Botswana, China, Zambia, and Belgium.

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    Est.

    Proj.
                       

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Output

    		                  

    Real GDP growth

    5.4

    4.4

    3.7

    3.8

    3.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.0

    3.0

    Nominal GDP growth

    12.2

    11.3

    7.1

    8.8

    9.3

    7.4

    7.6

    7.6

    7.6

    Nominal GDP (billions of USD)

    205.6

    228.9

    245.1

    266.8

    291.7

    313.4

    337.1

    362.5

    389.9

    Nominal GDP per capita (USD)

    4,407

    4,236

    4,472

    4,673

    4,898

    5,037

    5,192

    5,346

    5,513

    GDP Deflator

    6.4

    6.6

    3.3

    4.9

    5.5

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    4.4

    Prices

    Consumer prices (average)

    6.1

    5.9

    4.2

    4.1

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Consumer prices (end of period)

    6.9

    5.3

    3.4

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    4.5

    Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Central Government Budget 1/

    Revenue and grants 2/

    30.5

    35.1

    36.5

    33.2

    32.8

    33.1

    33.3

    33.3

    33.3

      of which: SACU receipts

    6.7

    10.5

    11.2

    7.7

    7.9

    8.2

    8.5

    8.5

    8.4

    Expenditure

    36.1

    37.6

    40.4

    38.8

    37.7

    36.8

    36.6

    36.5

    36.5

      Of which: personnel expenditure

    14.9

    13.9

    14.1

    13.5

    12.8

    12.3

    12.2

    12.2

    12.2

      Of which: capital expenditure and net lending

    3.1

    2.9

    3.9

    4.0

    3.9

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    3.5

    Primary balance

    -1.2

    2.7

    1.2

    -0.5

    0.2

    1.4

    1.7

    1.7

    1.7

    Overall fiscal balance

    -5.7

    -2.4

    -3.9

    -5.7

    -4.8

    -3.7

    -3.3

    -3.3

    -3.3

    Overall fiscal balance ex. SACU

    -12.4

    -12.8

    -15.1

    -13.4

    -12.8

    -12.0

    -11.8

    -11.7

    -11.7

    Public debt, gross

    67.5

    66.0

    66.2

    62.3

    62.2

    62.0

    61.1

    60.1

    59.3

    Investment and Savings

    Investment

    20.1

    27.3

    25.6

    22.1

    19.0

    17.8

    16.8

    16.8

    16.8

      Public

    2.6

    2.4

    2.4

    2.6

    2.5

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    14.1

    23.7

    21.3

    19.5

    16.5

    15.5

    14.5

    14.5

    14.5

      Change inventories

    3.4

    1.2

    2.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Savings

    7.3

    12.0

    10.3

    6.6

    5.4

    5.2

    4.6

    5.1

    5.5

      Public

    -3.2

    -0.2

    0.1

    -1.3

    -1.1

    -0.4

    0.1

    0.2

    0.2

      Others (incl. SOEs)

    10.6

    12.2

    10.2

    7.9

    6.5

    5.6

    4.5

    4.8

    5.3

    Percent change, unless otherwise specified

    Money and Credit

    Broad money

    0.0

    10.7

    9.7

    9.1

    8.6

    7.9

    8.4

    7.7

    7.6

    Credit to the private sector

    4.2

    2.8

    3.5

    4.9

    6.2

    4.1

    5.4

    5.5

    5.5

    BoN repo rate (percent) 3/

    6.75

    7.75

    7.00

    6.75

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
     

                                                                                       Percent of GDP, unless otherwise specified

    Balance of Payments

    		                    

    Current account balance

    -12.6

    -15.3

    -15.3

    -15.5

    -13.7

    -12.6

    -12.1

    -11.7

    -11.3

    Financial account balance

    -13.3

    -15.9

    -17.2

    -9.3

    -15.4

    -13.6

    -12.3

    -11.8

    -11.8

    Gross official reserves

    22.3

    23.2

    25.1

    18.4

    20.1

    21.2

    21.5

    21.6

    22.2

    Reserves (in months of imports)

    3.9

    3.8

    4.4

    3.4

    3.8

    4.1

    4.2

    4.2

    4.5

    External debt

    71.7

    76.0

    74.6

    68.0

    67.5

    66.8

    65.5

    63.6

    61.8

    of which: public (incl. IMF) 4/

    17.5

    16.6

    14.7

    7.9

    7.3

    6.8

    6.4

    6.0

    5.5

    Exchange rate

    REER (percent, yoy)

    -3.6

    -6.3

    2.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Average exchange rate (Namibian dollar per USD)

    16.4

    18.5

    18.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: Namibian authorities; and IMF staff calculations.

    1/ Figures are for the fiscal year as a percent of GDP. The fiscal year runs from April 1 to March 31.

    2/ Revenue excludes the line “transactions in assets and liabilities” classified as part of revenue in budget documents. It captures proceeds from asset sales, realized valuation gains from holdings of foreign currency deposits, and other items which are not classified as revenue according to the IMF’s Government Finance Statistics Manual 2010.

    3/ Figure for 2025 is as of April 16, 2025.

    4/ The ratio is calculated by dividing the stock as March 31 by nominal GDP for the fiscal year.
                                           

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] Under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, publication of documents that pertain to member countries is voluntary and requires the member consent. The staff report will be shortly published on the www.imf.org/Namibia page.

    [3] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/13/pr-25198-namibia-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-art-iv-consult

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: UNDER GOP PLAN, ENERGY TAX HIKES COULD DECIMATE ROCHESTER’S #1 FASTEST-GROWING BUSINESS, DRIVE UP COSTS FOR ROCHESTER FAMILIES & SMALL BIZ; STANDING AT HOME WITH NEWLY-INSTALLED SOLAR PANELS,…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Rochester’s GreenSpark Solar, Named Rochester’s #1 Fastest-Growing Business & A Rochester Top Workplace, Has Already Been Forced To Lay Off 20 Workers Due To GOP Clean Energy Attacks, And Worries About Future Of Business Under GOP Job-Killing Bill

    House GOP Rushed Trump’s Tax Giveaway To Billionaires, Gutting Fed Clean Energy Tax Credits That Lower Energy Costs and Boost & Local Jobs – Now Even House Rs Are Regretting It, Asking Senate GOP To Reverse Cuts They Voted For; Senator With Impacted Rochester Businesses, Families Demands GOP Block Cuts

    Schumer: ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ Is A ‘Big, Bad Blow’ To Rochester-Finger Lakes Jobs, Families & Businesses

    Standing at a Rochester family home that will soon see lower monthly energy bills thanks to newly installed solar panels, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer warned how the GOP plan to kill clean energy tax credits could raise energy costs for families and devastate Rochester’s HVAC and energy installation companies like GreenSpark Solar, named Rochester’s #1 fastest-growing business and a top place to work in Rochester for the seventh year in a row. 

    Schumer explained these unpopular, job-killing cuts in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” have already created panic among House Republicans and companies, and even House Republicans who voted for this bill last month are now begging to save these tax credits. Schumer said GreenSpark Solar is just one of many local Rochester businesses that could be decimated by this bill and demanded the GOP block these tax hikes that could devastate Rochester families and small businesses.

    “Right now, we are at Defcon 1 for America’s clean energy future, and it’s jobs here in Rochester and monthly energy bills for New York families and businesses that are on the line. The Clark family’s house here in the Rochester area tells the story of today. Last year, they hired Rochester’s fastest-growing business to install solar panels on their roof with help from our Inflation Reduction Act, lowering their monthly energy bill over 65%, from over $100 to $35,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ would deal a ‘big bad blow’ to families here in Rochester, raising their costs and killing good-paying jobs at companies like Rochester’s GreenSpark Solar, which employs hundreds of workers. It guts one of the most effective tax credits middle-class families use to lower their monthly energy bills in order to give bigger breaks to billionaires; it’s outrageous. That’s why I’m demanding Republicans to stop this plan to gut America’s clean energy future and block these cuts that will hurt Rochester’s families’ wallets and decimate jobs.”

    Schumer was joined by workers from leading Rochester HVAC, solar, and geothermal energy installation companies, including ACES Energy, Halco Home Solutions, Wise Home Energy, Schuler-Haas Electric, and GreenSpark Solar, who said the elimination of these investments would be a massive blow to their work, employees, and customers. Rochester’s GreenSpark Solar employs 150 workers, and on any given day, also employs an additional 150-300 union subcontractors from Rochester companies like Schuler-Haas Electric to help build their installations.

    Just two years ago, they were named Rochester’s #1 fastest-growing business and have been able to double their workforce in recent years thanks to customer demand unleashed by the Inflation Reduction Act’s clean energy tax credits. GreenSpark Solar purchases equipment and supplies from local Rochester-area suppliers, boosting the local supply chain, and has just relocated to the heart of downtown Rochester, bringing life to an abandoned building and the surrounding area.

    However, GreenSpark Solar recently had to lay off 20 workers in anticipation of the GOP’s job-killing “Big, Beautiful Bill’s” tax increases on clean energy projects, driving down demand for their business. Schumer said if this bill passes, it will pull the rug out from under GreenSpark Solar just as it is growing, rendering their investments in Rochester worthless and forcing them to lay off local workers.

    “When I first joined the solar industry, I knew almost nothing – but the people at GreenSpark taught me everything: how solar works, how it strengthens communities, and how it builds careers,” said Rory Patrie, Field Service Administrator for GreenSpark Solar. “I believe in it so deeply I had solar installed on my own home. It’s helped me fight inflation, keep my bills low, and become more resilient. The proposed elimination of federal renewable energy investments threatens my livelihood, my coworkers, and the everyday families we serve. I’m glad to stand here with Senator Schumer to defend the credits that support this work – and I thank Senator Schumer for recognizing what’s at stake for workers like me.”

    Kevin Schulte, CEO of GreenSpark Solar said, “I’ve been in the renewable energy business for 26 years, and every time the Federal Government attacked our industry, New York State stepped up, helping us build the fifth largest solar market in the country. Solar and battery storage are the fastest, most affordable forms of electricity on the grid today; we won’t meet our energy goals with offshore wind, nuclear, or even natural gas—it will also come from solar. I’m proud to stand with Senator Schumer to defend the policy that supports this critical work and provides quality jobs and affordable energy to many New Yorkers.”

    The Clark family, who just hired GreenSpark Solar to install solar panels last year with help from the Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit, has already seen their monthly electricity bill decrease by over 65%, from over $100 to $35. Now, they are considering installing additional panels and a battery backup system that can store electricity, making them better prepared for power outages during extreme weather. However, if Republicans repeal the tax credits, the cost of making their home more energy efficient will skyrocket. Thousands of families across New York State are waiting to see what the GOP does in Washington and are holding off on new clean energy installations, hurting companies like GreenSpark Solar and the thousands of workers in the clean energy industry.

    The GOP bill would kill clean energy incentives already benefiting hundreds of New York businesses with ongoing projects and the families who are using them to help improve their homes’ energy efficiency and lower their energy bills. Schumer specifically highlighted how the bill:

    • Eliminates the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit, which provides families in New York up to $3,200 to help weatherize their homes for better protection in the harsh winters and make improvements to their home’s energy efficiency, lowering their energy bills with qualifying items like doors, windows, better insulation and heat pumps, and
    • Eliminates the Residential Clean Energy Credit, which gives New York families a 30% discount on home energy improvements, like solar panels, heat pumps, or energy storage, that help lower energy bills and keep the lights on during power outages.

    Penfield homeowners also joined Schumer, including Al Hibner, who lowered his monthly heating costs by 44% with his geothermal heat pump installed by Rochester’s ACES Energy, and homeowner Katie Ryggs, who has saved $1650 a year on her utility bills thanks to solar panels installed by GreenSpark and geothermal installed by ACES. Her monthly bills went from $200 to $60, plus she’s saved thousands on gasoline costs because she was able to switch to an electric vehicle and charge at home, reducing her monthly energy costs by more than 70%. 

    In the past two decades, more than 5 million American households have put solar panels on their roofs – this skyrocketed after the Inflation Reduction Act expanded these tax credits three years ago. However, one analysis estimates residential solar installations could fall by half in the next year if this House GOP bill goes through.

    “The Energy Tax Credit helped us install solar panels and slash our electric bill from over $100 to just $25 a month,” said Steve & Amy Clark, Penfield homeowners. “We were looking forward to adding additional solar panels and battery storage in the future – but if these credits are cut, that would put those plans out of reach. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s support for these essential tax credits that make clean energy possible for homeowners like us.”

    Penfield homeowner Katie Rygg said, “These tax credits put geothermal, solar, and our first EV within reach for my family – helping us create a better future for our daughters – with the added benefits of having less pollution in the house and saving money on our monthly energy bills. In the summer, we use 1/6 of the electricity to cool our house and in winter, we use 1/4 of the energy to heat our home. We hope that Congress will fight to preserve these clean energy tax credits so that many more families will be able to access the savings, comfort, and health benefits that come with electric homes and vehicles.”

    Schumer was joined by Rochester-Finger Lakes businesses across the clean energy sector who said this bill would hurt their businesses immediately.

    Andrew (AJ) Heiligman, President, ACES Energy & Renewable Rochester said, “Geothermal heat pump Federal tax credits have empowered everyday Americans to invest in clean, domestic energy, lowering utility bills, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and generating well-paying local jobs. These incentives benefit more than just homeowners; they strengthen local economies and sustain the skilled workers driving our clean energy transition. Rolling them back now would stall momentum that’s delivering real results for people, the environment, and communities alike.”

    Ryan Puckett, General Manager at Wise Home Energy said, “The Federal tax credits for beneficial electrification and weatherization are critical tools for reducing carbon emissions in our buildings. These incentives drive investment in cleaner, more resilient technologies, reducing costs and improving living conditions for New Yorkers. Removing them would not only hinder progress toward energy independence but also place unnecessary burdens on contractors and families striving for sustainable solutions. Wise Home Energy thanks Senator Schumer for supporting clean energy policy that benefits us all.”

    Schumer was also joined by Rochester Building Trades workers who, with the help of IRA’s Clean Electricity Investment Tax credits, just built New York’s first grid-scale solar project, Morris Ridge Solar, in Livingston County that created 550 jobs, provided a $70 million boost to the local economy, and is powering 47,000 households. These workers, who are now constructing the 2nd largest solar project in New York – the Excelsior Energy solar farm in Genesee County that is creating 290 construction jobs, $117.5 million in economic impact, and will power 74,000 homes – fear these thousands of jobs will now be lost.

    Grant Malone, President of the Rochester Building & Construction Trades Council said, “Good-paying family sustaining local construction jobs will be obliterated by the job-killing “Big, Beautiful Bill’s” repeal of clean energy incentives. Our hundreds of local skilled trades members who are on the job today building solar farms in Rochester to power hundreds of thousands of homes are proof that these federal investments are a win-win. We are proud to stand with Senator Schumer to oppose any attempts to eliminate these investments and kill the thousands of construction jobs they are set to unleash.”

    Schumer said clean energy tax incentives have spurred a clean energy boom in New York State, and rolling them back would have devastating impacts. The Clean Economy Tracker estimates the Inflation Reduction Act’s incentives have spurred over $5 billion worth of investments in clean manufacturing in New York, creating over 7,200 jobs. Data from NERA Economic Consulting shows that repealing clean energy tax credits could cause New York to lose up to 20,300 jobs as clean energy projects are cancelled or scaled back, with a whopping nearly $3.5 billion hit to the state’s GDP, and New Yorkers paying up to $650 in higher energy costs each year by 2032 if these devastating cuts become law.

    Already, Republicans have shown doubts about the provisions in this bill. Earlier this month, thirteen House Republicans sent a letter to Senate Republican leaders urging them to scale back clean energy cuts in the “Big, Beautiful Bill” – the very bill their votes helped pass in the House. Last week, House Republicans voted for a second time to pass this job-killing bill after deleting various provisions.

    “The fight is far from over. House Republicans’ latest flipflopping shows our pressure is working, and we have a real opportunity to get them to go back to the drawing board on this bill, and stop their attacks to totally eliminate these clean energy tax credits. And we are doing that by showing the real-world impacts, the jobs lost and lives devastated by their brutal cuts,” added Schumer.

    Schumer said if this House Republican plan goes through, many of the clean energy projects spurred by the IRA could be forced to scale back or even stop, the workers building the future of American energy would be laid off, and projects that otherwise would have plugged into the grid will never come to fruition. That would impact both major NY employers and manufacturers in the clean energy, manufacturing, electric vehicle, battery, and research sectors, and also our small businesses and major economic projects slated to come to New York. Schumer said the House Republican bill would repeal the very parts of the Inflation Reduction Act that have helped companies grow in New York and spurred millions of investments, many of which are in Republican districts such as:

    1. Eliminates the Clean Electricity Investment & Production Credits that support more cheap, clean electricity. With natural gas turbines on a five-year delay, the IRA’s clean electricity tax credits have ensured a robust buildout of wind and solar power while spurring demand for American-made energy products and helping keep electricity prices from increasing.
    2. Sabotages the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit that has generated a more than five-fold increase in investment in manufacturing in the solar and EV supply chains, creating thousands of good-paying jobs and shifting these industries out of China to the U.S.
    3. Eliminates the IRA’s Electric Vehicle Tax Credits that make it cheaper to buy new and used electric and plug-in hybrid cars, and has led to a massive onshoring of EV and battery supply chain manufacturing, undercutting China and bolstering American companies.
    4. Eliminates the New Energy-Efficient Home Credit that makes it cheaper to build new, highly efficient and affordable homes, expanding the housing supply while reducing energy costs.
    5. Eliminates the Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit that supports American-made clean hydrogen, led by New York companies like Plug Power and Air Products, to be used for clean manufacturing and agriculture.

    Graham Hughes, Director of Policy & Advocacy of the Climate Solutions Accelerator said, “Investments in clean energy made through the Inflation Reduction Act have allowed people in the Finger Lakes Regions to upgrade our homes, lowered the cost of our energy, and created good paying jobs in a growing sector of the economy. Cutting these tax credits will roll back this progress and make our region more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. We need congress to protect these investments and ensure the green economy continues to grow in New York.”

    Monroe County Legislator Susan Hughes-Smith & Climate Solutions Accelerator Co-founder said, “The federal clean energy tax credits are good for our economy, health, and environment. The Solar Energy Industry Association calculates that the elimination of just the solar tax incentives would result in 330,000 jobs lost across the country, close or cancel 331 factories and squander nearly $300 billion in local investments. These credits should be preserved.”

    Repealing the clean energy tax incentives would also be a disaster for America that Schumer said would cede energy manufacturing leadership to China, which already produces a significant amount of the world’s clean technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries. If companies can no longer support clean energy manufacturing in the United States, they will bring these projects to America’s competitors, and jobs that would’ve otherwise been created in America will be created in countries like China. This will destabilize American supply chains and make American families and businesses reliant on China and other foreign countries for cheap energy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inward investment success

    Source: Scottish Government

    Record share of UK projects secured despite global instabilities.

    Nearly one in six inward investment projects in the UK last year were secured in Scotland, according to new data published by EY.

    The record share of the market cements the country’s position as the UK’s top destination outside of London – for the tenth year in a row – while Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow remain among the top 10 UK cities for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects outside of London.

    Although the total number of new projects in Scotland fell back slightly (4.9%) from record numbers in 2023, it compares to a drop of 13% in the UK, 14% in France and 17% in Germany.

    EY’s survey of global investors found that quarter of those planning to invest in the UK are targeting Scotland, maintaining the country’s long-standing position in investors’ eyes as the UK’s preferred FDI destination outside of London.

    To mark the results, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes visited the Glasgow offices of Canadian IT and business consulting services firm CGI Inc. which employs around 750 employees across its Glasgow, Edinburgh, Borders and Aberdeen offers.

    The Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said:

    “Given the geopolitical uncertainties clearly affecting investor confidence across the world, this is an incredible endorsement of Scotland’s proposition as a destination for global investment.

    “A huge amount of work, across both the private and public sectors, goes into securing these projects, which are vital for economic growth, job creation and bringing benefits across our towns and cities.

    “From the likes of green aircraft engine ZeroAvia to ticketing hub Humanatix, 2025 is bringing further significant investment and exciting projects to Scotland. The Scottish Government will continue to work with businesses and our “Team Scotland” partners to continue building the country’s reputation as a world class location for foreign investment.”

    Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise Adrian Gillespie said:

    “It’s fantastic to mark a decade of Scotland as the number one UK location for inward investment outside of London. Foreign direct investment unlocks innovation, creates jobs, and opens up new supply chain opportunities for Scottish companies.

    “Our staff in over 30 offices around the world are vital to building these trusted relationships with potential inward investors, which can often take years to cultivate. This work is complemented by colleagues at home working with Team Scotland partners to build a package of support to bring these companies to Scotland.

    “Scotland’s strengths in emerging technologies, including AI, are attracting new foreign investors, with US robotics and AI company LaunchPad Build opening an Edinburgh office last year. Together with Scotland’s historic reputation for financial services excellence, this is driving further investment, such as Australian fintech HALO opening its Glasgow operations centre last year.

    “The global energy transition, and Scotland’s growing reputation in this area, continues to be a catalyst for innovation, with US headquartered ZeroAvia locating its manufacturing facility for hydrogen aviation engines next to Glasgow airport and Japanese sub-sea cable manufacturer Sumitomo breaking ground on its factory in Port of Nigg.”

    CGI Senior Vice President, Scotland and Northern Ireland, said Lindsay McGranaghan:

    “CGI has been working in Scotland for more than 10 years, and we find it an outstanding place to do business and grow talent. We have established offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Tweedbank, and employ 750 staff – who we call partners – who support key sectors such as government, health, energy and higher education. 

    “Six years ago we expanded our presence with the opening of a new HQ in Glasgow, and we embrace the metro model of working – building a resource of Scottish-based partners who live and work in their local communities. We have also developed partnerships with a host of Scottish SMEs, helping small businesses grow while supporting regional economic development.

    “As the UK’s leading FDI location outside London for a decade, Scotland’s resilience and appeal are clear. We are proud to play our part in that success, and look forward continuing to grow our business in Scotland.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £250m for green aerospace projects ahead of Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £250m for green aerospace projects ahead of Industrial Strategy

    UK aerospace will be boosted by more than £250m funding for cutting-edge aerospace tech projects to drive greener air travel, ahead of the Paris Air Show.

    • Government announces over £250m joint industrial investment with industry for cutting-edge green aerospace tech projects at companies including Rolls-Royce, Airbus.
    • Industry Minister announces latest win for UK aerospace at Paris Air Show in run-up to launch of Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will turbocharge growth in advanced manufacturing and defence.
    • Announcement comes as new figures show UK aerospace sector supports 100,000 direct jobs and contributed £13.6bn to the economy in 2024, almost 50% up on 2014.

    UK aerospace will be boosted by more than £250 million funding for cutting-edge aerospace tech projects to drive greener air travel, Industry Minister Sarah Jones will announce at the Paris Air Show today.

    The combined funding from government and industry will drive forward the development of cutting-edge technologies that will help to secure the future of the UK’s aerospace sector. This includes advancements in gas turbines, hydrogen-powered flight and the use of laser technologies for large-scale aerostructure manufacturing.

    It will help attract even more investment into the UK’s world-leading aerospace sector and support thousands of high-skilled jobs outside of London, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change and helping grow the economy.

    The announcement comes as new figures from the industry’s trade association ADS show the UK’s aerospace sector added £13.6 billion to the economy last year – an increase of almost 50 percent compared to 2014 – and supported 100,000 direct jobs.

    It marks the latest win for the UK’s world-class aerospace sector in the run-up to the launch of the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will target growth in the UK’s leading advanced manufacturing and defence sectors, and giving businesses the confidence they need to invest in the UK.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

    This government is backing aerospace. This investment will keep it at the forefront of innovation, not only delivering economic growth but boosting the charge to net zero 2030, two key pillars of our Plan for Change.

    This is the latest win for British aerospace in the run-up to the launch of our Industrial Strategy, which will turbocharge growth in our advanced manufacturing and defence sectors to take them to new heights, bringing new high-skilled jobs to every corner of the UK.

    During her visit to Paris Air Show – the world’s largest event for the civil aerospace sector – Minister Jones will tour the UK’s pavilion and meet with British companies exhibiting, before meeting with a wide range of leading aerospace companies, such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce and GKN.

    The meetings will focus on encouraging even greater investment into British aerospace, promoting the UK’s world-class R&D offer on the global stage, and how government can support businesses to increase their manufacturing and operations in the UK.

    Smaller and medium size businesses across the UK continue to benefit from the ATI Programme, with more than 302 receiving support since 2013, and another 19 investing over £22.8m in innovation in today’s announcement.

    The UK aerospace sector had an annual turnover of £34 billion in 2024 and spent £1.9 billion on business R&D – a record level, driven by ongoing investment in both sustainable technology and market manufacturing technology to help ramp up UK production.

    Rolls-Royce Director of Research & Technology Alan Newby said:

    Gas turbines are an engine for growth for the UK economy. We welcome the recognition of the technology’s vital role from the Government in supporting both national and economic security.

    Together, government and industry investment in future gas turbine technologies will enhance the UK’s global competitiveness and help secure UK jobs and exports for the decades ahead.

    Airbus UK Chairman John Harrison said:

    It’s terrific to see ATI funding allocated to projects like our ZeroE Development Centre (ZEDC) that will be built at Airbus Filton, and for DecSAM which builds on the industry’s additive manufacturing capabilities.

    It’s initiatives like these that are absolutely critical to accelerating our decarbonisation journey and advancing sustainable, cutting-edge manufacturing. The continued ATI funding provides the UK aerospace industry with the confidence and stability it needs to fuel innovation.

    Aerospace Technology Institute Chief Innovation Officer Paul Adams said:

    Today’s funding announcement, including our dedicated small and medium-sized company grants, supports critical world-leading research – vital to ensuring UK aerospace companies continue to provide great jobs and growth in future, whilst delivering on our ambitious environmental goals. This is a huge vote of confidence in UK aerospace and in British aerospace companies.

    Notes to editors

    • The ATI Programme is a joint government and industry investment. Its purpose is to competitively offer funding for research and technology development in the UK, to maintain and grow the UK’s competitive position in civil aerospace and accelerate the transition to net zero aviation. 

    • The support announced today is from the £975 million between 2025 and 2030 allocated to the ATI Programme by the Government. This funding, matched by industry, provides continued stability for industry to invest in the UK, delivering economic growth, supporting high skilled jobs and advancing aviation’s challenging transition to net zero. 

    • In total between 2013 and 2030, industry and government will invest over £5 billion developing transformational aircraft technology to secure and grow UK jobs and reduce harmful aviation emissions.

    Specific investments announced are: 

    1. DRAGONFLY (Actuation Lab & Cranfield University)
      This project is developing a special valve to control the flow of super-cold liquid hydrogen for future zero-emission aircraft. It aims to support cleaner aviation by improving hydrogen fuel systems.

    2. STAR (Advanced Manufacturing & partners)
      The STAR project is creating a new gas shielding device that removes the need for expensive argon chambers in manufacturing. This will lower costs and allow for the production of larger components.

    3. REIT (AerospaceHV)
      REIT is building test facilities to help certify electrical systems used in high-voltage aerospace machines. This will support the development of future electric aircraft.

    4. PACE-AM (Alloyed & Brunel University)
      This project is improving the use of strong aluminium alloys in 3D printing for aerospace parts. It aims to make aircraft components lighter and more efficient to produce.

    5. HiRACOS (Carbon ThreeSixty & partners)
      HiRACOS is developing fast and efficient composite materials for use in next-generation aircraft. The goal is to speed up production for advanced air mobility and narrowbody planes.

    6. LoCAP (CKPD)
      LoCAP is working on lightweight, non-metallic aircraft parts using new materials. This will help UK aerospace companies make better quality parts faster and at lower cost.

    7. MACH2INE (Darvick & Cranfield University)
      This project is creating machines to test materials used in hydrogen-powered aircraft. It will help ensure these materials are safe and reliable for flight.

    8. SPCLH2 (Enoflex Ltd. & partners)
      SPCLH2 is designing lightweight composite pipes to carry liquid hydrogen in aircraft, replacing heavy steel ones. These new pipes will reduce aircraft weight and improve fuel efficiency.

    9. DAA (Hover Inc.)
      DAA is developing smart onboard computers with AI for future autonomous and hybrid-electric aircraft. These systems will improve safety and performance.

    10. GENACOM (iCOMAT & University of Sheffield)
      GENACOM is creating new ways to design and build curved composite parts for aircraft using a patented process. This will result in lighter, more sustainable aerospace structures.

    11. AAIFC (Luffy AI & University of Southampton)
      This project is using AI to make flight control systems safer and more adaptable. It opens up new design possibilities for future aircraft.

    12. MAMBA (NEMA LTD & University of Nottingham)
      MAMBA is developing advanced magnetic bearings for aerospace use, which are more reliable and fault-tolerant. These will be tested in real-world turbo-compressor systems.

    13. MB HeX FC (Qdot Technology & Atomik AM)
      This project is using metal 3D printing to improve radiators and heat exchangers in hydrogen fuel-cell aircraft. The goal is to make these systems more efficient and compact.

    14. FEEAD (Scintam Engineering)
      FEEAD is improving a machining technique to safely remove stuck fasteners during aircraft engine maintenance. This will make repairs quicker and safer.

    15. Sora Aero (Sora Aviation & Universities of Bristol and Manchester)
      Sora Aero is developing AI-powered tools to simulate how aircraft behave in flight. These tools will help design better zero-emission aircraft.

    16. BatWing (Sora Aviation & University of Bath)
      BatWing is creating lightweight battery packs and new ways to safely attach them to aircraft wings. This supports the move to electric-powered flight.

    17. MEFSVS (Ultima Forma & GKN Aerospace)
      MEFSVS is replacing heavy outer jackets on hydrogen fuel tanks with lighter, advanced materials. This will reduce aircraft weight and simplify manufacturing.

    18. SPARR (Zero Emissions Aerospace Ltd. & partners)
      SPARR is developing a hydrogen propulsion system for various aircraft types, including airships and eVTOLs. It aims to cut emissions and lower operating costs.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: England faces 5 billion litre public water shortage by 2055 without urgent action

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    England faces 5 billion litre public water shortage by 2055 without urgent action

    England faces 5 billion litre a day shortfall for public water supplies by 2055 – and a further 1 billion litre a day deficit for wider economy

    • England faces 5 billion litre a day shortfall for public water supplies by 2055 – and a further 1 billion litre a day deficit for wider economy. 
    • Pressures caused by climate change, growing population, emerging technologies and need to protect environment. 
    • £8 billion water company investment already committed over next five years.

    England’s public water supply could be short by 5 billion litres a day by 2055 without urgent action to futureproof resources, the Environment Agency has warned today. (June 17th 2025).  

    Climate change, population growth, and environmental pressures are impacting supplies with the predicted shortfall equivalent to a third of our current daily use – or the volume of 4.5 Wembley Stadiums.  

    A further one billion litres a day will also be needed to generate energy, grow our food, and power emerging technologies.  

    The analysis is outlined by the Environment Agency’s National Framework for Water Resources. The report, published every five years, sets out the actions required by water companies, regulators, businesses, and the public to best manage water usage into the future.  

    The EA expects 60% of this deficit to be addressed by water companies managing demand and dramatically reducing leaks. The remaining 40% would come from boosting supply, including the building of new reservoirs and water transfer schemes.  

    The government has secured £104 billion in private sector spending in water company infrastructure over the next five years, including £8 billion committed to boost water supply and manage demand.

    Further recommendations and actions include:  

    • Leakage: The EA will continue to work with financial regulator Ofwat on water company pledges to cut leakage by 17% in the next five years and by 50% by 2050.  

    • Smart meters: Water companies have committed to the vital rollout of ten million more smart meters to help customers understand how much they use – and reveal where wastage may be in their homes and businesses. The average person on a meter uses 122 litres per day, compared to 171 litres without.  

    • Efficiency labelling: Household appliances, such as dishwashers, toilets, and showers, can be more efficient and the EA will continue to work with Government on a mandatory efficiency labelling scheme. 

    • Infrastructure: Water company plans includes nine new desalination schemes, 10 new reservoirs and seven new water recycling schemes by 2050.  

    Environment Agency Chair, Alan Lovell, said:

    The nation’s water resources are under huge and steadily increasing pressure. 

    This deficit threatens not only the water from your tap but also economic growth and food production. Taking water unsustainably from the environment will have a disastrous impact on our rivers and wildlife.   

    We need to tackle these challenges head-on and strengthen work on co-ordinated action to preserve this precious resource and our current way of life.

    Each region has specific needs related to industry and geography. Since the Environment Agency’s last framework was released in 2020, five regional water resources groups have either been established or bolstered to develop plans that identify each area’s individual needs.  

    RAPID (Regulators’ Alliance for Progressing Infrastructure Development) has also been formed by regulators EA, Ofwat and the DWI (Drinking Water Inspectorate) to accelerate the development of large infrastructure projects.   

    Ofwat Chief Executive, David Black, said:

    We recognise the unprecedented pressures on our water resources and the ambition to further cut abstraction to improve river health, which we strongly support. This is why we announced £8bn of funding at Price Review 2024 to deliver the required action across the sector to secure our future water supplies.

    Boosting supply through building critical water infrastructure is essential to safeguard supplies of drinking water. The way is now clear for the water industry to build on the success of the recently opened £5 billion Thames Tideway project by stepping forward to deliver an expanded pipeline of 30 major projects which we need in England and Wales.

    Emerging industries, such as data centres and hydrogen production, require vast amounts of water to cool their systems and the EA wants businesses to explore more options for using non-potable water – perfectly usable but not for human consumption.  

    Additional changes are also needed for some abstraction practices – the taking of water from rivers, lakes, and groundwater for public and business use. The EA wants more sustainable solutions, in some cases, easing the strain on environmentally sensitive sites, such as chalk streams.   

    The regulator wants homes to become more efficient to support development and the environment. Schemes in Sussex, Cambridgeshire and Norfolk have previously been delayed because of limited water supply. 

    Water shortages can lead to lower crop yields and higher food prices, and the EA is helping groups of farmers to identify how they can improve their supply resilience, for example by sharing water rights and building jointly owned reservoirs 

    There are also small steps the general public can take. These include:  

    • Shortening showers 
    • Turning off taps when brushing teeth 
    • Using full loads for washing machines and dishwashers 
    • Collecting rainwater for garden use 
    • Deleting old emails to reduce pressure on data centre servers 

    Note to editors:

    The summary report is available online.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: TRUMP’S “BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL” COULD SPELL “BIG” ENERGY PRICE HIKES & “BIG” JOB LOSSES FOR BUFFALO; STANDING AT ONE OF WESTERN NY’S LARGEST HOME SOLAR INSTALLERS, SENATOR REVEALS HOW GOP PLAN…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Buffalo Clean Energy Biz Like Solar Liberty Were Boosted By Federal Clean Energy Incentives – But Now Face Major Issues For Future Of Business Under GOP Job-Killing Bill – And Families Who Tap These Programs To Lower Their Energy Bills In WNY Could Be Left High & Dry

    House GOP Rushed Trump’s Tax Giveaway To Billionaires, Gutting Fed Clean Energy Tax Credits That Lower Energy Costs and Boost & Local Jobs – Now Even House Rs Are Regretting It, Asking Senate GOP To Reverse Cuts They Voted For; Senator – With Impacted Buffalo Businesses, Families, Union Workers – Shows Local Impact Of These Cuts, Demands GOP Block It

    Schumer: ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ Is A ‘Big, Bad Blow’ To Western NY Jobs, Families & Businesses

    Standing at Buffalo’s Solar Liberty, one of the largest solar installers in the region, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer warned how the GOP plan to kill clean energy tax credits could raise energy costs for Western NY families, slash local jobs, and devastate Buffalo’s clean energy businesses & manufacturers.

    Schumer explained these unpopular, job-killing cuts in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” have already created panic among House Republicans and companies, and even House Republicans who voted for this bill last month are now begging to save these tax credits. Schumer said Solar Liberty is just one of many local Buffalo businesses that could be decimated by this bill and demanded the GOP block these tax hikes that could devastate Buffalo families and small businesses.

    “Right now, we are at Defcon 1 for America’s clean energy future. Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ would deal a ‘big bad blow’ to Buffalo, raising families’ energy costs and killing good-paying local jobs. These federal clean energy investments have boosted Buffalo’s businesses, like Solar Liberty, which is helping families and businesses save on their monthly energy bills. The current GOP bill would decimate the programs these companies rely on, which will kill jobs and drive up energy costs for consumers,” said Senator Schumer. “It guts investment to bring clean energy manufacturing back from overseas and eliminates one of the most effective tax credits middle-class families use to lower their monthly energy bills and that Buffalo families use to help weatherize their homes to make them warmer in the winter, all to give bigger breaks to billionaires; It’s outrageous. America needs to be producing more energy, investing in making sure these jobs grow in places like Buffalo, not go back overseas. That’s why I’m demanding Republicans to stop this plan to gut America’s clean energy future and block these tax hikes that will hurt Buffalo families’ wallets and decimate jobs.”

    Schumer was joined by workers from leading clean energy company Solar Liberty, who said the elimination of these investments would be a massive blow to their businesses, employees, and customers. Buffalo’s Solar Liberty employs nearly 100 workers and has helped thousands of families and businesses across the Northeast install solar panels for over two decades, reducing their energy bills by hundreds or even thousands per year.

    Three years ago, new and expanded clean energy tax credits created in the Inflation Reduction Act expanded Solar Liberty’s ability to bring the manufacturing of solar energy parts back to Western New York. Solar Liberty is growing rapidly by building out community solar projects, partnering with schools and nonprofits to take advantage of new direct-pay credits, and expanding battery storage, now eligible for a 30% federal tax credit even when deployed without solar. These IRA-driven incentives have not only boosted deployment and manufacturing but are also helping underserved communities and energy transition hubs across Western New York access affordable, reliable, clean power.

    However, the House GOP bill would make it more difficult for both residents and businesses to work with Solar Liberty to install solar panels. Cutting the Residential Clean Energy Credit – which gives New York families a 30% discount on home energy improvements, like solar panels – would make the cost of installing solar panels skyrocket for hardworking families, gutting Solar Liberty’s main customer base. Schumer said if this bill passes, it will pull the rug out from under Solar Liberty just as it is growing, rendering their investments in Buffalo worthless and forcing them to lay off local workers.

    “Since 2005, the Federal Investment Tax Credit has supported 280,000 American jobs, strengthened energy independence, and delivered cost-saving solutions for millions of families and businesses,” said Adam Rizzo, President of Solar Liberty. “As energy demand accelerates, solar’s unmatched speed of deployment makes it one of the most effective tools we have to strengthen America’s energy future. We’re grateful to Senator Schumer for his steadfast support in advancing solar energy and helping drive this progress forward.”

    Brian Gould, retired Cheektowaga Police Chief, hired Solar Liberty to install solar panels with help from the Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit. Gould said the cost would have been prohibitive without these tax credits, but now he is saving over $1,000 every year on his energy bill. If these tax credits are repealed, the cost of making homes more energy efficient will skyrocket, and families like Gould’s would not have the support they need to bring their energy costs down. Thousands of families across New York State are waiting to see what the GOP does in Washington and are holding off on new clean energy installations, hurting companies like Solar Liberty and the thousands of workers in the clean energy industry. Singer Farm Naturals used the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit to install two solar arrays, cutting a significant portion of their upfront costs and lowering long-term energy expenses. Programs like this, along with USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants, have been essential to keeping operating costs down — and are now under threat in the proposed federal budget.

    “As a homeowner who installed solar back in 2013, I know firsthand how important federal tax credits are in making clean energy affordable,” said Brian Gould, a residential solar customer. “Those incentives made it possible for me to go solar—and today, I save over $1,000 a year on my electric bills. The Inflation Reduction Act builds on that foundation, making it easier than ever for families to make the switch. These credits are helping more people access solar, lower their energy costs, and invest in a cleaner future. Rolling them back now would make home solar harder to afford and deny others the same opportunity I had to take control of my energy and support local jobs.”

    The GOP bill would kill clean energy incentives already benefiting hundreds of New York businesses with ongoing projects and the families who are using them to help improve their homes’ energy efficiency and lower their electric bills. Schumer specifically highlighted how the bill:

    • Eliminates the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit, which provides families in New York up to $3,200 to help weatherize their homes for better protection in the harsh winters and make improvements to their home’s energy efficiency, lowering their electric bills with qualifying items like doors, windows, better insulation and heat pumps, and more.
    • Eliminates the Residential Clean Energy Credit, which gives New York families a 30% discount on home energy improvements, like solar panels, heat pumps, or energy storage, that help lower energy bills and keep the lights on during power outages.

    It isn’t just solar that would be hurt; these cuts hurt businesses across the clean energy sector and its supply chains. Viridi Parente, a fast-growing company on Buffalo’s East Side, has added hundreds of good-paying jobs, growing the domestic battery manufacturing industry with support from clean energy tax credits created by the Inflation Reduction Act, such as the Advanced Manufacturing Production tax credit. Viridi Parente helped breathe new life into the former American Axle Factory, which was once the beating heart of the community. However, if the GOP bill becomes law, it would be a major blow to Viridi Parente’s progress in growing the domestic battery manufacturing industry, gutting federal investment at a time when it is critically needed.

    Schumer said clean energy tax incentives have spurred a clean energy boom in New York State, and rolling them back would have devastating impacts. The Clean Economy Tracker estimates the Inflation Reduction Act’s incentives have spurred over $5 billion worth of investments in clean manufacturing in New York, creating over 7,200 jobs. Data from NERA Economic Consulting shows that repealing clean energy tax credits could cause New York to lose up to 20,300 jobs as clean energy projects are cancelled or scaled back, with a whopping nearly $3.5 billion hit to the state’s GDP, and New Yorkers paying up to $650 in higher energy costs each year by 2032 if these devastating cuts become law.

    Already, Republicans have shown doubts about the provisions in this bill. Earlier this month, thirteen House Republicans sent a letter to Senate Republican leaders urging them to scale back clean energy cuts in the “Big, Beautiful Bill” – the very bill their votes helped pass in the House.

    “The fight is far from over. House Republicans’ latest flip-flopping shows our pressure is working, and we have a real opportunity to get them to go back to the drawing board on this bill, and stop their attacks to totally eliminate these clean energy tax credits. And we are doing that by showing the real-world impacts, the jobs lost, and lives devastated by their brutal cuts,” added Schumer.

    Schumer said if this House Republican plan goes through, many of the clean energy projects spurred by the IRA could be forced to scale back or even stop, the workers building the future of American energy would be laid off, and projects that otherwise would have plugged into the grid will never come to fruition. That would impact both major NY employers and manufacturers in the clean energy, manufacturing, electric vehicle, battery, and research sectors, and also our small businesses and major economic projects slated to come to New York. Schumer said the House Republican bill would repeal the very parts of the Inflation Reduction Act that have helped companies grow in New York and spurred millions of investments, many of which are in Republican districts such as:

    • Eliminates the Clean Electricity Investment & Production Credits that support more cheap, clean electricity. With natural gas turbines on a five-year delay, the IRA’s clean electricity tax credits have ensured a robust buildout of wind and solar power while spurring demand for American-made energy products and helping keep electricity prices from increasing.
    • Sabotages the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit that has generated a more than five-fold increase in investment in manufacturing in the solar and EV supply chains, creating thousands of good-paying jobs and shifting these industries out of China to the U.S.
    • Eliminates the IRA’s Electric Vehicle Tax Credits that make it cheaper to buy new and used electric and plug-in hybrid cars, and has led to a massive onshoring of EV and battery supply chain manufacturing, undercutting China and bolstering American companies.
    • Eliminates the New Energy-Efficient Home Credit that makes it cheaper to build new, highly efficient and affordable homes, expanding the housing supply while reducing energy costs.
    • Eliminates the Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit that supports American-made clean hydrogen, led by New York companies like Plug Power and Air Products, to be used for clean manufacturing and agriculture.

    Repealing the clean energy tax incentives would also be a disaster for America that Schumer said would cede energy manufacturing leadership to China, which already produces a significant amount of the world’s clean technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries. If companies can no longer support clean energy manufacturing in the United States, they will bring these projects to America’s competitors, and jobs that would’ve otherwise been created in America will be created in countries like China. This will destabilize American supply chains and make American families and businesses reliant on China and other foreign countries for cheap energy.

    “We’re grateful to Senator Schumer for providing strong, common-sense leadership at a time when what we’ve fought so hard to deliver for working people is being threatened by this administration. Organized Labor has fought nationally for generational investments in clean energy and a green transition away from fossil fuels, and we’ve won many of those fights with Senator Schumer’s support. Now those wins are being threatened. The climate crisis is already making workers less safe on the job. From blistering farm fields to sweltering classrooms, workers will continue to suffer and die as long as the current President and Congress continue to deny scientific consensus and defund projects and programs that set us on an environmentally stable path. Working families in Buffalo know better than most the devastation of changing industry and the benefits of renewable energy sources for our communities. Corporate and political greed—lining the pockets of billionaires at workers’ expense—is unsustainable, and we’ll keep fighting it every step of the way forward,” said Buffalo Central Labor Council President Denise Abbott.

    “Clean Air members are working class people who have suffered the brunt of pollution from the burning of gas and coal for energy. Clean energy tax credits can lower our energy bills, reduce pollution protecting our health, and provide family- sustaining jobs. he house bill is a bad deal for the working class. We stand with Senator Schumer to ask that these clean energy credits be protected,” said Chris Murawski, Executive Director, Clean Air Coalition of Western New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola, United States (U.S.) Set Course for Expanded Energy Cooperation During Meeting in Washington

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

    Download logo

    Angola has taken a decisive step in advancing its strategic partnership with the U.S., following a high-level meeting between Angolan Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas Diamantino Azevedo and U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright in Washington, D.C. on June 11. The meeting – also attended by Angola’s Ambassador to the U.S., Agostinho Van-Dúnem –   underscored the shared commitment of both nations to deepen cooperation across oil and gas, critical minerals and renewable energy development.

    American companies have long played a leading role in Angola’s oil and gas industry, from offshore exploration to production and infrastructure. Minister Azevedo and Secretary Wright explored opportunities to build on this foundation through new upstream projects, gas monetization, refining and critical mineral development which is vital for clean technology supply chains. They also highlighted Angola’s efforts to attract U.S. capital for renewable energy initiatives, particularly in solar and green hydrogen, as part of the country’s diversification and modernization drive.

    “This meeting reflects the robust and evolving partnership between Angola and the United States. We are committed to working together to achieve a balanced energy transition – one that leverages Angola’s natural resources, advances technological cooperation and contributes meaningfully to our economic transformation and development goals,” stated Minister Azevedo. 

    With more than nine billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 11 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, Angola has unveiled over $60 billion in oil and gas investment prospects through its National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency (ANPG). These span exploration, development, gas processing, refining and midstream infrastructure. A licensing round set to launch this year will offer ten new blocks in the Kwanza and Benguela basins, while 11 additional blocks are open for direct negotiation, alongside five marginal field opportunities. 

    U.S. firms continue to play a foundational role in Angola’s energy landscape. Earlier this month, ExxonMobil, as a joint venture partner alongside operator TotalEnergies, secured an extension of the PSC for Block 17, enabling continued deepwater exploration and development in this prolific basin and underscoring its long-term commitment to Angola’s offshore sector. Meanwhile, ExxonMobil is advancing the redevelopment of Block 15 – where over 2.6 billion barrels have already been produced – with an 18-well program extending the block’s life by more than two decades and yielding two new discoveries. The company is also undertaking prospective studies on Blocks 17/06 and 32/21, in collaboration with TotalEnergies and ANPG, aiming to identify future drilling targets. 

    Chevron, through its affiliate Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, is leading Angola’s gas development efforts. The company has ramped up gas supply to 600 million cubic feet per day to the Angola LNG plant and achieved first gas earlier this year from its Sanha Lean Gas Connection Project, which will supply both the Soyo power plants and Angola LNG. Angola LNG – one of sub-Saharan Africa’s few operational LNG export terminals – offers a strategic entry point for U.S. firms into global LNG supply chains. As part of the New Gas Consortium, Chevron is also developing Angola’s first non-associated gas project, set to come online in late 2025 or early 2026.

    Downstream and midstream projects are another key pillar of Angola’s energy transformation. Construction is advancing on the $920-million Cabinda Refinery, with U.S. firms engaged in engineering and procurement roles. The U.S.-backed Lobito Corridor – a major infrastructure initiative connecting Angola’s Lobito port to Zambia and the DRC – is poised to boost regional energy transport and industrialization, offering additional opportunities for American companies in logistics, storage and rail-linked energy infrastructure. Complementary investments in storage terminals, fuel distribution and domestic refining capacity are helping Angola reduce its reliance on imports and increase energy self-sufficiency.

    The engagement marks a renewed commitment to aligning U.S.-Angola energy collaboration with the goals of sustainable development, energy security and economic modernization. 

    – on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear site

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on the Israeli air strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. 

    Dr Simon Bennett, Director of the Civil Safety and Security Unit, University of Leicester, said:

    “It is clear that Israel has mounted a large aerial assault against Iran’s military infrastructure, although there is little detailed information on which sites have been targeted. For example, whether any of Iran’s research reactors have been targeted.

    “Iran has devoted significant resources to hardening its military infrastructure – especially its nuclear weapons infrastructure – by burying it deep underground.

    “While Israel is equipped with powerful bunker-busting munitions, such as the 5,000lb GBU-28, even these bombs would struggle to penetrate a hardened subterranean bunker. To have any effect, the facility would have to be hit multiple times at the same aiming point – a big ask for any attacking force.

    “Should a subterranean enrichment facility or reactor be hit by one or more bunker-busters, it is unlikely that there would be significant contamination beyond the confines of the site, for the simple reason that the enrichment facility or reactor would be buried in tons of earth and concrete.

    “Further, those who run the site would have been trained in radiation monitoring and mitigation techniques.”

     

    Prof Richard Wakeford, Professor in Epidemiology, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health (COEH), University of Manchester, said:

    “Current information appears to suggest that the strikes have only hit uranium enrichment plants, which use highly pure uranium and don’t pose much of a radiological hazard. Such plants will use uranium hexafluoride and this could pose a chemical hazard if damage causes release because hydrogen fluoride is formed on contact with moisture.

    If reactors (or reprocessing plants) are hit, that could be more of a radiological problem if it causes significant damage, because then we could see releases of a range of radionuclides, although presumably on a much smaller scale than from previous reactor accidents.”

    Declared interests

    For all experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Amitabh Kant steps down as G20 Sherpa after 45 years of government service

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Amitabh Kant on Monday announced his decision to step down as the G20 Sherpa. His resignation comes after 45 years of government service in various roles, including G20 Sherpa, CEO of NITI Aayog, and Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion, among others.

    “After 45 years of dedicated government service, I have made the decision to embrace new opportunities and move forward in life,” Kant said in a post on X, titled ‘My New Journey’. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for accepting his resignation and for entrusting him with key policy responsibilities during his tenure.

    Describing the G20 Summit in India as a “significant milestone” in his career, Kant wrote in a LinkedIn post: “India’s G20 presidency was people-centric and inclusive, with meetings held across all states and union territories. This strengthened cooperative federalism, celebrated local culture, and upgraded infrastructure nationwide.”

    Kant also highlighted the successful inclusion of the African Union in the G20, which fulfilled India’s commitment to global equity and to amplifying the voice of the Global South.

    During his time at NITI Aayog, Kant led flagship initiatives such as the Aspirational Districts Programme, aimed at improving governance and development indicators in 115 of India’s most underdeveloped districts. He also played a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital public infrastructure, and championed innovation through the Atal Innovation Mission, manufacturing reforms via the PLI scheme, and sustainability through missions such as Green Hydrogen and Advanced Chemistry Cells.

    As Secretary of the DIPP, Kant played a significant role in rolling out major initiatives such as Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and Startup India.

    Tracing his career to its roots in Kerala, Kant said his early exposure to grassroots development informed his later efforts — including the globally recognised Incredible India tourism campaign, which he described as inspired by the sector’s potential for job creation and economic growth.

    Kant’s next chapter, he said, would focus on contributing to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat by empowering enterprise and innovation.

  • Amitabh Kant steps down as G20 Sherpa after 45 years of government service

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Amitabh Kant on Monday announced his decision to step down as the G20 Sherpa. His resignation comes after 45 years of government service in various roles, including G20 Sherpa, CEO of NITI Aayog, and Secretary of the Department for Industrial Policy and Promotion, among others.

    “After 45 years of dedicated government service, I have made the decision to embrace new opportunities and move forward in life,” Kant said in a post on X, titled ‘My New Journey’. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for accepting his resignation and for entrusting him with key policy responsibilities during his tenure.

    Describing the G20 Summit in India as a “significant milestone” in his career, Kant wrote in a LinkedIn post: “India’s G20 presidency was people-centric and inclusive, with meetings held across all states and union territories. This strengthened cooperative federalism, celebrated local culture, and upgraded infrastructure nationwide.”

    Kant also highlighted the successful inclusion of the African Union in the G20, which fulfilled India’s commitment to global equity and to amplifying the voice of the Global South.

    During his time at NITI Aayog, Kant led flagship initiatives such as the Aspirational Districts Programme, aimed at improving governance and development indicators in 115 of India’s most underdeveloped districts. He also played a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital public infrastructure, and championed innovation through the Atal Innovation Mission, manufacturing reforms via the PLI scheme, and sustainability through missions such as Green Hydrogen and Advanced Chemistry Cells.

    As Secretary of the DIPP, Kant played a significant role in rolling out major initiatives such as Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and Startup India.

    Tracing his career to its roots in Kerala, Kant said his early exposure to grassroots development informed his later efforts — including the globally recognised Incredible India tourism campaign, which he described as inspired by the sector’s potential for job creation and economic growth.

    Kant’s next chapter, he said, would focus on contributing to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat by empowering enterprise and innovation.

  • MIL-OSI Canada: G7 Leaders’ Summit: Statement from Premier Smith

    “Alberta has always been a place where bold, visionary people come together to think big and drive change. Our homegrown solutions are the answer to many of the urgent challenges leaders face on this year’s agenda.

    “From the Rocky Mountains to the rolling prairies and dense forests – Alberta isn’t just a beautiful province, it’s a powerhouse of economic opportunity.

    “With the fourth-largest oil reserves and ninth-largest natural gas reserves on earth, we are one of the most reliable and secure energy providers in the world. Our geography uniquely positions us to supply Asia, Europe and the world with the energy they need whether it’s oil, propane, liquified natural gas, hydrogen, ammonia and more.

    “Alberta’s vast wealth of energy resources can bring billions of people globally out of energy poverty and reduce global emissions by displacing high-emitting fuels, like coal, with lower-emitting fuels like natural gas. 

    “No other democratic ally offers the same combination of stability, proximity and abundant energy reserves that Alberta has – and we have no plans of slowing down. We’re increasing production and reducing emissions with advanced technology and strong environmental standards, while protecting Alberta’s land, water and air for future generations to enjoy.

    “Flying into Calgary, the vast stretches of prairie below offer more than a view. They tell the story of an agricultural powerhouse. Last year alone, Alberta exported $17.5 billion of agri-food products.

    “Alberta’s hard-working producers and processors put food on tables around the globe, contributing to local and global food security.

    “Home to world-class destinations and cinematic landscapes, the $12.7-billion tourism industry is booming in Alberta. Our picture-perfect views are boosting film and television production to an estimated gross domestic product of $864 million. Alberta’s commitment to low taxes and less red tape is sending a clear message: this is the place to invest, grow and succeed.

    “Alberta’s strength comes from its people; we thrive in times of change and embrace new challenges. As we position Alberta as a serious player in global AI, and build our presence in tech, that same spirit continues to power progress across the board.

    “Alberta is built on ambition, resilience and innovation. We’re not just open for business, we’re leading the way. It is with great pride that we welcome G7 leaders and visitors to this extraordinary place we call home.

    “We stand ready to show the world what Alberta has to offer.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Another trial project on hydrogen fuel technology given agreement-in-principle by Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Another trial project on hydrogen fuel technology given agreement-in-principle by Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel 
    The said project concerns an application jointly submitted by the Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited and Chi Shing New Energy Technology Co., Limited, involving provision of electricity with hydrogen power generation equipment to support the operation of electrical equipment at a recreation facility of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department at Fan Kam Road, Fanling, for the golf event of the 15th National Games to be held in November.
     
    The spokesperson of the EEB stated, “The Working Group has promptly initiated the examination process upon receipt of detailed information of the trial project. After seeking members’ agreement through circulation, the Working Group has given agreement-in-principle to the application on June 13.”
     
    To date, the Working Group has given agreement-in-principle in stages to a total of 27 applications of hydrogen energy trial projects. The Working Group will continue to make reference to the operational data and experience collected from the trials to provide advice for the continuous enhancement of the safety and technical guidelines on the local application of hydrogen energy. Details are set out in the thematic webpage (cnsd.gov.hk/en/inter-departmental-working-group-on-using-hydrogen-as-fuel/ 
    The Working Group is formed by the EEB, the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the Development Bureau, the Security Bureau, the Environmental Protection Department, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, the Fire Services Department, the Transport Department, the Marine Department, the Planning Department, the Lands Department, the Buildings Department, the Architectural Services Department and the Labour Department.  
    Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Progress being made in the implementation of SA’s Green Hydrogen Strategy

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau says meaningful and tangible progress is being made in the implementation of South Africa’s Green Hydrogen Commercialisation Strategy. 

    He was addressing delegates at the Green Hydrogen Summit on Thursday, held at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town. 

    Tau said several commercial-scale green hydrogen projects are currently in development across the country, each addressing different parts of the value chain that must be unlocked. 

    “Through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), we have also secured €23 million in grant funding from the German government via KfW Development Bank. 

    “These funds will be used to de-risk and fast-track key catalytic green hydrogen projects. Of the 24 projects identified as Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs), several have already completed their pre-feasibility study phase. 

    “We have also established the Just Energy Transition Green Hydrogen Programme Management Office, hosted by the IDC, to coordinate the implementation of the green hydrogen chapter of the JET-IP Implementation Plan,” he told the delegates. 

    He said the scale of funding required to develop a green hydrogen ecosystem was immense, therefore collaboration was not just a recommendation, but a necessity.

    “We will explore a range of mechanisms, including project feasibility and development funding, tools to de-risk investments, support for green premiums during the early stages of cost curve reduction such as contracts for difference, investment in supporting infrastructure, and funding that facilitates ecosystem development, including policy support, capacity building, technology transfer, sustainability and inclusion,” he said. 

    Tau said the Green Hydrogen ecosystem will not help South Africa to avert further de-industrialisation, but assist in driving the reindustrialisation of the economy. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the Clean Industrial Deal – B10-0278/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Paolo Borchia, Isabella Tovaglieri, Julie Rechagneux, Jorge Buxadé Villalba, Ondřej Knotek, Filip Turek, Auke Zijlstra, Barbara Bonte, Jana Nagyová, Aleksandar Nikolic, Silvia Sardone, Raffaele Stancanelli
    on behalf of the PfE Group

    B10‑0278/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the Clean Industrial Deal

    (2025/2656(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 26 February 2025 entitled ‘The Clean Industrial Deal: A joint roadmap for competitiveness and decarbonisation’ (COM(2025)0085),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 26 February 2025 entitled ‘Action Plan for Affordable Energy’ (COM(2025)0079),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 29 January 2025 entitled ‘A Competitiveness Compass for the EU’ (COM(2025)0030),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 5 March 2025 entitled ‘Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector’ (COM(2025)0095),

    – having regard to the Commission communication of 11 December 2019 on the European Green Deal (COM(2019)0640),

    – having regard to the questions to the Commission [XXXXX],

    – having regard to Rules 142(5) and 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the motion for a resolution of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy,

    A. whereas the Clean Industrial Deal was presented at a time of a serious competitiveness crisis; whereas it was supposed to represent the first step towards a decisive shift in pace and approach in EU policies, in order to safeguard businesses and industrial capacity across the EU;

    B. whereas European industry is facing fierce competition from global players, with competitors benefiting from public investment, lower energy prices and a favourable regulatory environment, which are factors that provide significant advantages and encourage the relocation of EU enterprises to non-EU countries; whereas in recent decades, the policies pursued by the Commission, causing overregulation in industrial matters and setting unreasonable and unattainable environmental targets, have contributed to the massive relocation of EU production to non-EU countries, resulting in significant job losses, desertification and deterioration of living conditions in certain regions, as well as a transfer of knowledge and increased dependencies in strategic sectors;

    C. whereas the implementation of the Fit for 55 package and other legislation under the Green Deal imposes stringent targets for the reduction of CO2 emissions, which undermine European industrial competitiveness; whereas the policies related to the Green Deal have shown serious drawbacks, especially in the current competitiveness crisis, such that a change of approach, including by revising the targets set and comprehensively reviewing the current legislation, appears to be crucial;

    1. Notes the publication of the Clean Industrial Deal and the announcement of upcoming initiatives by the Commission; expresses concern about their potential ineffectiveness and the risk of further harming the competitiveness of EU businesses; believes that forcing market change through legislative measures, rather than allowing it to be driven by business-led innovation, is a fundamentally flawed approach; calls for a decisive change of pace from the previous legislative term, including a thorough revision and repeal of pieces of legislation adopted under the framework of the Green Deal;

    2. Calls, in any case, for the implementation of the economically harmful policies of the Green Deal to be suspended, to enable a re-evaluation of their objectives and application; urges the Commission, moreover, to refrain from proposing a legislative initiative for an intermediate target of 90 % reductions in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2040;

    3. Expresses concern about the way in which the Commission drafts its legislative proposals and conducts impact assessments, which reveals a lack of full stakeholder involvement and in-depth analysis of the effects, including long-term, on competitiveness; stresses the importance of ensuring effective consultation with all stakeholders, including local and regional entities, in order to improve the accuracy of impact assessments, thus avoiding the need to revise regulations shortly after their adoption and reducing uncertainty in an environment already marked by the crisis;

    4. Urges the Commission to engage in structured sectoral dialogue with industry representatives, academia, social partners and relevant stakeholders from energy-intensive sectors, as well as cross-border regional industrial clusters, to ensure that policies are aligned with real industrial needs and challenges; affirms that well-targeted industrial policy, starting from a review of the EU decarbonisation objectives, is crucial to ensure a strong industrial base and to create and maintain high-quality jobs in the EU; affirms its commitment to fostering stable and predictable industrial policies that take into account the impact on the competitiveness of EU companies, and commits to upholding the principle of technology neutrality when adopting such policies, as a cornerstone for building competitive European industry;

    5. Notes the affordable energy action plan; strongly stresses the need for action aimed at reducing volatility and lowering the high energy prices that impact heavily on businesses and consumers; urges the Commission and the Member States, following adequate impact assessments and consultation with the stakeholders, to put forward ways to decouple electricity prices from fossil fuel prices; warns against Commission initiatives that could circumvent Treaty provisions assigning competence over the energy mix to the Member States;

    6. Expresses concern about the overly excessive focus of EU policies on electrification and renewables, which has been reaffirmed with the Clean Industrial Deal; states the need to promote a diversified energy mix that includes clean and low-carbon energy, in order to ensure security of energy supply and competitiveness; emphasises that relying solely on electrification will be extremely challenging for energy-intensive industries; stresses the indispensable role that natural gas will continue to play in the energy mix; reiterates the need to develop measures to ensure gas supply at a mitigated cost and calls on the Commission to ensure an improved, stable and certain regulatory framework; deplores the proposal to eliminate all subsidies for fossil fuels;

    7. Acknowledges that the electricity grid infrastructure plays an essential role in achieving the EU’s strategic autonomy; calls on the Member States to fully explore, optimise, modernise and expand their electricity grid capacities, including transmission and distribution, with technological neutrality as a core principle; considers electricity grids to be a central element in the transition to a competitive economy;

    8. Recalls the large-scale blackout that affected the Iberian Peninsula on 28 April 2025, leaving over 50 million people without electricity for several hours and causing severe disruption to transport, telecommunications and essential services; underlines that, at the time of the incident, renewable energy accounted for approximately 70 % of Spain’s electricity mix, and that only a few days earlier, on 16 April, the Spanish grid had operated entirely on renewable energy; highlights the fact that the blackout was caused by multiple factors, including the excessively high share of variable renewables, which contribute less to grid inertia compared to conventional power plants, making it more difficult to manage sudden frequency changes; strongly affirms, as a consequence, the need to adopt a technologically neutral approach in the planning, development and strengthening of electricity networks, in order to enable the safe integration of all technologies that support grid stability, especially in the context of growing energy demand; calls on the Member States to strengthen risk assessments related to systemic electricity shocks and to promote resilient, secure and technologically diversified grid models;

    9. Stresses the fundamental role that low-carbon hydrogen can play; calls for the swift adoption and implementation of a simple, technology-neutral and investment-friendly definition of low-carbon hydrogen in the upcoming delegated act[1], while ensuring that such a definition is robust and science-based, and incentivises hydrogen production; recognises that carbon management, including capture, storage, transport and utilisation, can play a role for hard-to-abate sectors;

    10. Supports the proposal to strengthen a European preference in public procurement processes, in the context of the revision of the public procurement framework in 2026, to the benefit of European businesses; considers this to be essential for enhancing supply chain security and fostering a resilient EU industrial base; remains strongly sceptical about the announced industrial decarbonisation accelerator act and about the extension of new sustainability criteria to the EU budget and national support programmes, as well as to public and private procurement benefiting energy-intensive industries; remains critical of the proposal to introduce new environmental criteria in addition to the many that are already in place, as well as the introduction of environmental labelling for industrial products, which risks creating additional administrative burdens for companies;

    11. Affirms the need to create a favourable environment for investment that is capable of discouraging the relocation of industrial activities outside the EU; recognises the importance of increasing and encouraging both public and private investment in the energy, industry and transport sectors; takes note of the announced creation of a competitiveness fund and calls for this to be an instrument of genuine support for businesses; calls for an EU State aid framework in support of industrial transformation and modernisation, in line with the principle of technology neutrality, also enabling existing plants to access funding for technology upgrades, thereby safeguarding employment and economic stability; expects the new framework to address these needs; expresses its firm opposition to any new own resources and EU-level taxes;

    12. Notes the plan for the automotive sector and the measure for additional flexibility for the calculation of manufacturers’ compliance with CO2 emissions performance standards; considers this insufficient and largely inadequate to address the challenges faced by the sector; urges the Commission to promptly review Regulation (EU) 2019/631[2], particularly by lifting the ban on combustion engine vehicles and removing the sanctions regime; strongly emphasises that technological neutrality is crucial for ensuring sustainable and competitive industry, and calls, therefore, on the Commission to revise the regulation accordingly by fully considering all relevant technological developments, including biofuels;

    13. Notes that raw materials supply remains a strategic vulnerability, with the EU heavily dependent on non-EU suppliers for critical raw materials, requiring an urgent scaling-up of domestic mining, refining and battery recycling capabilities in a technology neutral, publicly accepted way; recalls the need to implement the Critical Raw Materials Act[3] and the Net Zero Industry Act[4] properly and to significantly strengthen industrial and raw materials diplomacy to access new markets via trade and partnership agreements, as well as special critical raw materials access agreements; stresses the crucial importance of catalysing investment to develop a domestic supply chain, ensuring its competitiveness and strategic autonomy;

    14. Stresses that the European Court of Auditors has highlighted[5] the Commission’s inability to achieve the target of capturing 20 % of the global semiconductor market by 2030 through the Chips Act[6]; calls, therefore, on the Commission to confront reality and revise its strategy accordingly, by setting clearer and more measurable objectives, ensuring proportionate and secured funding and promoting the integration of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout the entire semiconductor value chain;

    15. Stresses that EU industry is struggling not only a result of European environmental policies but also because of the overregulation that characterised the previous legislative term; urges the Commission to launch a broad process of genuine simplification and, where appropriate, deregulation; endorses simplification and digitalisation for speeding up administrative procedures; notes the omnibus simplification packages recently presented by the Commission; observes that these highlight flawed or missing impact assessments in the adoption of a number of major legislative measures during the previous term, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive[7] and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive[8]; affirms the need, in the current context of overregulation and excessive administrative burdens, as well as heavy obligations on businesses, to repeal this legislation; underlines, in any event, the importance of safeguarding smaller enterprises;

    16. Affirms the need to create a truly enabling environment for SMEs, which have been particularly affected by the crisis and represent 99 % of all European businesses; recalls the importance of avoiding any form of discrimination against small businesses that choose to remain small, while continuing to contribute to the economic and social prosperity of the territories in which they operate; calls for accessible funding for SMEs and small mid-caps and further improvements and harmonisation to simplify funding applications, reduce reporting obligations and fast-track small projects; stresses that the new EU-level statute for small mid-caps must not compromise or alter the current classification of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises; underlines that the establishment of the small mid-caps category should not divert attention or resources away from micro and small enterprises, which have distinct needs and priorities; calls, therefore, on the Commission to adopt the necessary measures and safeguards, and to establish thresholds that reflect the actual conditions regarding turnover and number of employees in the Member States;

    17. Notes the proposed simplification of the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) in the first omnibus package; recalls that the CBAM was introduced to compensate for the effect of the EU emissions trading system (ETS) in order to tackle carbon leakage; underlines that the CBAM, as currently designed, in parallel with the phasing out of the ETS free allowances, will not ensure a level playing field and will undermine competitiveness by increasing production costs and the administrative burden for EU companies; calls for the ETS and the CBAM to be entirely reassessed in the upcoming revision;

    18. Expresses concern about the ongoing negotiations on the reform of Regulation (EU) 2019/452[9], which establishes a framework for the screening of foreign direct investment into the Union; is particularly concerned about the excessive centralisation of control in the hands of the Commission at the expense of the authority of Member States, including those that already have effective national measures in place to protect strategic sectors that are crucial to national interest; underlines that national security and maintenance of public order are, in fact. exclusive Member State competences;

    19. Stresses the critical importance of preserving industrial activity and employment in the EU; warns that misguided industrial policies can have severe repercussions on jobs; underlines the urgent need to equip the European workforce with the necessary skills to adapt to the ongoing digital and industrial transformations, especially in remote and rural areas; calls for increased investment and a comprehensive industrial skills strategy; calls for the adoption of effective measures to address the alarming phenomenon of brain drain;

    20. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission, the Council and the governments and parliaments of the Member States.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa rallies Africa behind Green Hydrogen at inaugural Summit

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Ramaphosa rallies Africa behind Green Hydrogen at inaugural Summit

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on African countries to seize the opportunity presented by green hydrogen as a catalyst for industrial transformation, energy security, and inclusive economic growth across the continent.

    Delivering the keynote address at the inaugural Africa Green Hydrogen Summit at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town on Thursday, President Ramaphosa positioned the continent as a key player in the emerging global green hydrogen economy.

    “Our beloved continent Africa, the cradle of humanity, is uniquely positioned to become a major player in green hydrogen because it has abundant renewable resources manifested in high solar irradiance, strong winds and hydropower potential. 

    “The vast land our continent has lends itself to large-scale renewable energy projects. We are therefore perfectly placed to leverage the global shift towards cleaner energy sources for our collective advantage,” the President said. 

    WATCH | 

    Originally launched in 2022 as a South African initiative to articulate its national vision, the summit has now evolved into a continental platform to harness Africa’s green hydrogen potential. 

    Held under the theme: “Unlocking Africa’s Green Hydrogen Potential for Sustainable Growth”, this innovative summit convenes African energy ministers, policymakers, investors, developers, technology partners, and research institutions to shape the continent’s emerging green hydrogen sector.

    READ | Green hydrogen can ‘reposition’ Africa within global value chains

    New energy could spark million of jobs

    President Ramaphosa noted that over 52 large-scale projects have been announced across the continent, including South Africa’s Coega Green Ammonia project, the AMAN project in Mauritania and Project Nour in Morocco. 

    The target, as articulated through the Africa Green Hydrogen Alliance (AGHA), is to produce 30 to 60 million tons of green hydrogen annually by 2050. 

    It is estimated that this could create between two and four million new jobs in alliance member states by 2050.

    The Africa Green Hydrogen Alliance brings together a number of African nations, including Egypt, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco, Namibia and South Africa. 

    “To make use of these opportunities, we need to establish appropriate policy and regulatory environments. We must continue to move as a continent to develop regional certification schemes, hydrogen corridors and green product export platforms. 

    “We commend the work of countries like Mauritania, which has taken early steps on certification. It will be critical that we learn from one another and converge on standards that work for Africa,” the President said. 

    The President acknowledged the critical need for regulatory certainty, robust certification systems, and market access, stressing that investment and offtake agreements would be key to unlocking Africa’s green hydrogen future.

    “We cannot close that gap with potential alone. We must match it with demand signals, regulatory certainty and project preparation support. We need to ensure that there is sufficient and growing demand. This includes building domestic demand in African countries,” the President said. 

    In this regard, the President noted that the launch of green hydrogen production for mobility in Sasolburg and policy enablers for domestic offtake are important foundational steps. 

    “As we explore these exciting opportunities, we must work to address the impediments to the growth of this industry,” he said. 

    President Ramaphosa also highlighted Germany’s continued support through the H2Global mechanism, which has allocated one of its bidding windows to Africa and praised ongoing bilateral cooperation with the EU on green hydrogen projects, including Sasol’s HySHiFT sustainable aviation fuel initiative.

    READ | Germany, South Africa collaborate on green hydrogen

    The H2Global mechanism is opening its second bidding window, with one of the four lots allocated to Africa. 

    “The African lot, which is funded by the German government, will guarantee offtake for successful projects on the continent. 

    “A Joint Declaration of Intent with the German government focuses on market access, offfake opportunities and value-additive benefits in the production of green steel and green fertiliser. We commend the German government for its commitment to African supply,” the President said. 

    At home, South Africa is accelerating efforts to localise hydrogen production and industrial use. The country has invested R1.49 billion in its Hydrogen South Africa programme, launched new wheeling regulations, and initiated pilot projects, such as green hydrogen mobility in Sasolburg, and advanced planning for the Coega project. 

    In addition, the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan has been launched to integrate renewable energy and hydrogen into broader industrial development goals.

    President Ramaphosa acknowledged the many challenges facing the sector, including high capital costs, global investment gaps, and stiff competition from fossil fuels but urged unity and urgency in building an African-led hydrogen economy.

    “Tempered by these realities, this summit must not only be a platform of ideas. It must be a platform of commitments. We must put the African voice at the centre of global energy rulemaking. We must be authors of our own future,” he said. 

    Africa Green Hydrogen Summit an important part of SA’s G20 vision

    South Africa, which currently chairs the G20, has chosen just energy transitions as a key theme for its presidency, placing green hydrogen at the heart of its climate resilience and industrialisation agenda.

    IN PICTURES | Green Hydrogen Summit

    “The Africa Green Hydrogen Summit is an important part of that vision. Hydrogen is a bridge to a new export industry for African countries. It is an enabler for Africa’s energy independence and climate resilience,” he said. 

    More importantly, the President framed green hydrogen as more than an energy source, describing it as an “anchor for industrial transformation and infrastructure investment”.

    “We are called upon to join hands to build this bridge together as Africans, as partners and as builders of a green, prosperous and inclusive future,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

    DikelediM

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding secured for Britain’s industrial future

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Funding secured for Britain’s industrial future

    Government backs 2 major Carbon Capture projects in Aberdeenshire and the Humber.

    • Path to securing tens of thousands of jobs in the North Sea and industrial heartlands for decades to come
    • Further investment in Scotland as government’s Plan for Change delivers record settlement for Scottish Government with an extra £9.1 billion over the Spending Review period to deliver public services
    • Government meets in full request for initial development expenditure from projects, including funding for the SCO₂T Connect onshore pipeline connecting St Fergus with Grangemouth

    Workers in the North Sea and Britain’s manufacturing heartlands will drive forward the country’s industrial renewal, as 2 major carbon capture projects in Aberdeenshire and the Humber receive funding to progress.  

    It comes as part of the government’s Spending Review, which will see working people across Scotland benefit from significant investment in clean energy and innovation, creating thousands of high-skilled jobs and strengthening Scotland’s position as the home of the United Kingdom’s clean energy revolution. 

    After years of delay under previous governments, the government has backed UK carbon capture industries with £9.4 billion following the Spending Review, investing in Britain’s reindustrialisation with good, well-paid, skilled jobs for Britain’s engineers, technicians and electricians.  

    Funding will be invested this parliament to get spades in the ground and accelerate Britain’s global leadership in the technology of the future. 

    It will also progress the Acorn project in Aberdeenshire and the Viking project in the Humber with development funding, helping provide long-term industrial certainty for working people at the heart of these communities.  

    Today the government is meeting in full the request for development funding of around £200 million, subject to business case,  to prepare the Acorn project for delivery – the first time a government has provided funding of this scale for the projects to proceed. 

    As the project develops, funding will also provide financial cover for the National Gas SCO₂T Connect project, to repurpose an existing 175 mile gas pipeline, alongside 35 miles of new build pipeline, to allow CO2 captured at Grangemouth to be transported to storage facilities under the North Sea. Industry expects at their peak construction Acorn to support approximately 15,000 jobs and Viking to support 20,000 jobs, including 1,000 apprenticeships – bolstering the proud energy history of 2 industrial heartlands as engines for growth through the Plan for Change. 

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

    This government is putting its money where its mouth is and backing the trailblazing Acorn and Viking CCS projects.  

    This will support industrial renewal in Scotland and the Humber with thousands of highly-skilled jobs at good wages to build Britain’s clean energy future. 

    Carbon capture will make working people in Britain’s hard-working communities better off, breathing new life into their towns and cities and reindustrialising the country through our Plan for Change.

    Tim Stedman, CEO Storegga, lead developer of Acorn, said: 

    We warmly welcome the UK government’s support for the Acorn project and the commitment to development funding that will enable the critical work needed to reach Final Investment Decision (FID).  

    Building on the momentum from the Track 1 projects and significant private sector investment, this milestone is key not only for Acorn but for establishing Scotland’s essential CCS infrastructure needed to grow and scale the UK’s wider carbon capture and storage industry. 

    We look forward to working with government in the months ahead to understand the details of today’s commitment, and to ensure the policy, regulatory and funding frameworks are in place to build and grow a world-leading UK CCS sector.

    Graeme Davies, Executive Vice President, CCS, Harbour Energy said: 

    The Spending Review today sends a strong signal that Track-2 and Viking CCS are an infrastructure-led economic growth priority in this Parliament. 

    We will work with government on the critical steps needed to progress Viking CCS towards a final investment decision, following our completion of Front-End Engineering Design and approval of the onshore pipeline Development Consent Order earlier this year.

    Acorn has said its project will safeguard around 18,000 jobs in the North Sea that would otherwise have been lost, including jobs at Grangemouth.  

    These jobs will be needed to build pipelines to transport CO2 safely and generate low-carbon power to homes and businesses so the British people can have energy security, lower bills and protection from the climate crisis. 

    The funding accelerates the mission to become a clean energy superpower, with projects set to remove CO2 emissions before they reach the atmosphere and store them away safely, which is crucial to securing Britain’s industrial manufacturing future and tackling the climate crisis. Funding builds on and provides more construction support for 2 more advanced projects in Liverpool Bay and Teesside, which both reached financial close earlier this year. 

    Today’s funding sets a path to unlocking billions of private sector investment, putting more money into the pockets of hard-working communities in Aberdeen and the Humber – securing their place as a world-leader of net zero and low-carbon industries. 

    Once Acorn and Viking are operational, combined, they could remove up to 18 million tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere per year. As well as capturing emissions, carbon capture can also be used to generate low-carbon power, as well as enabling hydrogen power –  with the industry expected to support up to 50,000 jobs in the 2030s.  

    Both projects will now move forward with their proposals with the aim of reaching financial closure later this Parliament, subject to project readiness and affordability.  

    Notes to editors

    Today’s funding delivers on our commitments, having already reached financial investment decisions on 2 projects in Hynet, North Wales and the East Coast Cluster, Teesside which industry expects to deliver 20,000 jobs each at peak construction and assuming full deployment.

    Jobs figures were provided to government by industry.

    Stakeholders: 

    Jon Butterworth, CEO, National Gas, said  

    We warmly welcome the government’s decision to fund a further programme of significant carbon capture projects across the country. As Britain’s national gas network, we share the government’s view on the importance of energy security in bolstering our national security.  

    National Gas’s SCO₂T Connect Project, an essential component of the Acorn Project and wider Scottish Cluster, will be the key enabler for carbon capture across Scotland by providing the network infrastructure to facilitate industrial decarbonisation at scale and Clean Power.  

    This milestone investment commitment will set the UK on a path to be a genuine world-leader in carbon capture and storage which will play a pivotal role in securing Britain’s energy, decarbonising our economy and creating the jobs of the future.

    Finlay McCutcheon, Managing Director, SSE Thermal, said:  

    The UK government’s support for the Scottish Cluster reflects a strong commitment to advancing a low carbon future for Scotland and the wider UK. 

    Peterhead Carbon Capture Power Station is an essential anchor project within the cluster, and this welcome announcement moves us a step closer to delivering this vital project.  

    Carbon capture technology is essential to achieving the UK’s Clean Power targets, and today’s news highlights the need to deliver clean, low carbon dispatchable power that strengthens energy security in a renewables-led system.   

    SSE’s Peterhead site is strategically located near North Sea oil and gas infrastructure, which we aim to repurpose for CCS in collaboration with partners Equinor and Acorn. This would create a pathway for job creation and retention in North East Scotland, while accelerating the wider decarbonisation of our industrial clusters.     

    This marks an important step forward for the future of UK energy infrastructure, and SSE remains committed to working closely with government and industry partners to support the transition to a clean energy future.

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

    The CCSA welcomes support for CCUS in the Comprehensive Spending Review, with allocation of funding for the build-out of HyNet and the East Coast Cluster and development funding to progress the Acorn Project and Viking CCS.

    The commitment to taking Final Investment Decision this Parliament, subject to readiness and affordability, for these clusters is welcome and helps towards giving industry the confidence it needs to move forward with major investments in low-carbon infrastructure.

    This is a clear step forward to progressing the next clusters in Scotland and Humber. CCUS is critical to decarbonising our industrial heartlands, supporting clean power and enabling low-carbon hydrogen.

    It also plays a key role in protecting and creating thousands of high-quality jobs across the country in critical industries like cement, chemicals and refining, and the power system — all of which are essential for meeting the government’s commitments on new infrastructure and housebuilding.

    David Whitehouse, CEO, Offshore Energies UK (OEUK), said: 

    The support for the next phase of carbon storage projects in Scotland and Humberside is welcome, and an important step towards final investment decisions later in this Parliament. Together Viking and Acorn have the potential to unlock over £25 billion of investment by 2035, creating over 30,000 jobs at peak construction, 

    These projects will provide the pathway to support the decarbonisation of UK industries and are critical to the governments clean power objectives. We will continue to work with government to detail long-term support required to deliver these projects and unlock the wider UK’s CCS ambition.

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

    Prospect has been calling for further investment in infrastructure and CCUS, particularly in the Acorn and Viking clusters, so this is welcome.  

    New investment is vital to support jobs and the development of new technology in Scotland, the Humber and other industrial heartlands.  

    If these projects are successful they can not only help us to hit our emissions targets but will also play an important role in a just transition in the North Sea.

    Dr Liz Cameron CBE, CEO, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: 

    The government’s backing for the Acorn Project is a significant endorsement which will help to make the North East a world leader in the low-carbon industry. 

    This major carbon capture and storage facility puts us on an ecologically more sustainable trajectory and will bolster the region’s economy by creating up to 15,000 jobs in construction and attracting billions in private investment. 

    Whilst this intervention is undoubtedly welcome, we urge both the UK and Scottish governments to work in collaboration to realise Acorn’s potential in full.

    Andy Prendergast, GMB National Secretary, said:  

    We strongly welcome this announcement that secures thousands of jobs whilst putting Britain’s firmly on the path to net zero. After years of dithering, it’s great to see a government willing to come forward with the investments necessary to protect and decarbonise crucial industries in Aberdeen and Humberside.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Aemetis CEO Meets with White House, Congress, and Agencies Regarding Support for Domestic Energy and Rural Communities in Budget Bill

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CUPERTINO, Calif., June 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a renewable natural gas and renewable fuels company, announced today that its Chairman and CEO, Eric McAfee, has held meetings regarding support for domestic energy and rural communities in the federal tax bill with members of the Senate and House of Representatives, and with officials at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy, Treasury Department, and the White House National Economic Council. The meetings included a one hour presentation on transferable tax credits and the benefits of Section 45Z production tax credits to the Chief of Staff and biofuels policy staff of the Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation.

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a generational opportunity to support domestic energy and rural communities through Section 45Z production tax credits for biofuels and biogas,” Mr. McAfee stated. “This year, we have travelled to Washington D.C. more than ten times to meet with the White House, Senate and House, as well as to present to agencies related to biofuels and biogas to communicate the important role of 45Z in the expansion of American energy and the importance of funding to farmers and rural communities through higher value crops.”

    The 45Z production tax credit (PTC) was established in 2022 and went into effect in January 2025. If enacted, the federal tax and spending bill version passed by the House would modify the Section 45Z PTC to extend the credit availability by four years from 2027 to 2031, require the use of domestic feedstocks, and eliminate the indirect land use penalty for ethanol and other biofuels.

    The value of the Section 45Z production tax credits earned by Aemetis is directly correlated with the quantity of biofuels and biogas produced. From 12 dairies currently operating, Aemetis Biogas is rapidly scaling up the construction of dairy digesters to produce renewable natural gas (RNG) using feedstock from 50 dairies that have already entered agreements with Aemetis Biogas. This summer, 16 dairies are scheduled to be operating in the Aemetis Biogas Central Digester Project near Modesto, California, with 36 miles of biogas pipeline and a central biogas-to-RNG production facility already in operation delivering RNG into the PG&E utility gas pipeline.

    Aemetis renewable energy and energy efficiency projects include the expansion of dairy renewable natural gas production to generate more than 1 million MMBtu per year of renewable natural gas; the Keyes ethanol plant mechanical vapor recompression system that is expected to generate $32 million of increased annual cash flow starting in 2026; the Riverbank carbon sequestration project to inject 1.4 million tons per year of CO2 per year underground; and the 78 million gallon per year sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel plant that has already received Authority To Construct air permits and other key approvals.

    About Aemetis

    Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas and renewable fuel company focused on the operation, acquisition, development and commercialization of innovative technologies that replace petroleum products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates an 80 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin. Aemetis is developing a sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel fuel biorefinery in California that will use renewable hydrogen and hydroelectric power to produce low carbon intensity renewable jet and diesel fuel. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events or other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, projections of financial results in 2025 and future years; statements relating to the development, engineering, financing, construction and operation of the Aemetis ethanol, biogas, SAF and renewable diesel, and carbon sequestration facilities; our ability to promote, develop, finance, and construct facilities to produce biogas, renewable fuels, and biochemicals; and statements about future market prices and results of government actions. Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “showing signs,” “targets,” “view,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and predictions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results or events could differ materially from those set forth or implied by such forward-looking statements and related assumptions due to certain factors, including, without limitation, competition in the ethanol, biodiesel and other industries in which we operate, commodity market risks including those that may result from current weather conditions, financial market risks, customer adoption, counter-party risks, risks associated with changes to federal policy or regulation, and other risks detailed in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, and in our other filings with the SEC. We are not obligated, and do not intend, to update any of these forward-looking statements at any time unless an update is required by applicable securities laws.

    Company Investor Relations
    Media Contact:
    Todd Waltz
    (408) 213-0940
    investors@aemetis.com

    External Investor Relations
    Contact:
    Kirin Smith
    PCG Advisory Group
    (646) 863-6519
    ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

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