renewable energy

Recent rumors in China link rooftop solar panels with increased cancer rates and birth defects, causing public concern. Experts measured radiation from various devices, including solar panels, finding levels significantly below national safety standards (less than 20 nanoteslas compared to the 100 microteslas limit). They clarified that while solar panels emit radiation, like most electronics, the levels are harmless. Experts emphasized that household appliances meet safety regulations, reassuring the public and supporting China’s renewable energy goals amid misinformation.

UMC, a leading semiconductor foundry, announced that its emissions targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), making it the first pure-play foundry to achieve this. UMC commits to net-zero emissions by 2050, with ambitious near-term (2030) and long-term (2050) reduction targets for Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. Key strategies include expanding renewable energy use, maximizing energy efficiency, pioneering low-carbon manufacturing, and engaging its supply chain through the Supply Chain GHG Inventory Initiative.

Barrick Mining (NYSE:B) released its Summary Sustainability Report, highlighting six years of ESG progress since its merger. The company has distributed over $70 billion to stakeholders and focuses on UN Sustainable Development Goals, workplace safety, and greenhouse gas emission management. Barrick is transitioning to renewable energy and investing in community infrastructure like schools, clinics, and water projects. The Summary Report offers a simplified overview of Barrick’s global environmental and social impact alongside the comprehensive 2024 Sustainability Report.

KKR will invest A$500 million in CleanPeak Energy, marking KKR’s first Asia-Pacific investment under its Global Climate Transition strategy. The partnership aims to expand CleanPeak’s distributed energy platform, focusing on solar, battery storage, and microgrids for commercial and industrial sectors in Australia. CleanPeak, a specialist in renewable energy, provides integrated solar-and-storage systems to blue-chip companies. The investment is expected to be finalized in the latter half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

Solaris Energy Infrastructure (SEI) reported strong Q2 2025 results, with revenue reaching $149 million, an 18% increase from Q1, and net income of $24 million. Adjusted EBITDA surged 29% to $61 million. The company raised its Q3 Adjusted EBITDA guidance to $58-$63 million. Solaris closed $155 million in senior convertible notes and the Stateline JV secured a $550 million loan facility. Solaris approved a Q3 dividend of $0.12 per share, marking its 28th consecutive dividend payment. CEO Bill Zartler highlighted the company’s growth in the Power Solutions segment.

Xcel Energy plans a significant expansion of energy infrastructure in Texas and New Mexico to meet a projected 40% surge in electricity demand by 2030. The $5 billion investment includes adding 5,168 MW of capacity through 17 new power projects utilizing wind, solar, battery storage, and natural gas. The initiative aims to boost electric reliability, grid resilience, and economic growth. Regulatory approval is expected in the second half of 2025.

Fluence Energy will develop two battery storage projects in Germany for VERBUND, totaling 92 MW/186 MWh. The projects, located in Weißenthurm-Kettig and Elsterberg-Coschütz, will stabilize the grid and support renewable energy integration. VERBUND aims to expand its storage portfolio to 1 GW by 2030, and selected Fluence based on their experience, noise protection technology, and cybersecurity measures. The projects will use modular designs for scalability. Fluence currently has 750 MW of projects completed or under construction in Germany.

Ellomay Capital (ELLO) announced a private placement of 926,000 shares to Israeli investors at NIS 54 per share, expecting NIS 50 million gross proceeds. Menora Mivtachim will acquire approximately 6% ownership. Closing is expected in July 2025, pending regulatory approval. Proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes. The placement offers a slight discount to recent trading prices. Existing shareholders may experience dilution.

DMG Blockchain Solutions reported June 2025 operational results, detailing a decrease in Bitcoin mined and hashrate due to electrical outages and hydroelectric infrastructure issues. The company plans to use alternative manufacturers for new hydro operations and is developing a pilot system to reach 3 EH/s by year-end. DMG also announced a new Canadian data processing center agreement. Stock options and RSUs were granted to employees and directors.

Ares Management Corporation is investing €2 billion for a 20% stake in Plenitude, a European energy transition leader controlled by Eni, valuing the company at €12 billion. Plenitude operates in 15 countries, with a significant renewable energy capacity and EV charging infrastructure. Ares’s Alternative Credit funds are leading the investment, supporting Plenitude’s growth strategy.