Lithium Prices Stay Strong as Albemarle (ALB) Earnings Surge on Market Recovery, and RBC Sees Demand Resilience

Jennifer L
-
0
Lithium Prices Stay Strong as Albemarle (ALB) Earnings Surge on Market Recovery, and RBC Sees Demand Resilience

Lithium prices remain above CNY 144,000 per metric ton in China, despite pulling back from their 2026 highs. The latest data shows a market that remains volatile but is still much stronger than a year ago.

That recovery is also reflected in Albemarle’s second-quarter results. The producer reported a sharp increase in revenue and earnings as higher lithium prices lifted margins.

Meanwhile, RBC Capital Markets remains positive on long-term lithium demand. The bank recently lowered its Albemarle price target to $157 from $166 but kept its outperform rating. RBC said electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage continue to support demand.

Together, the latest price data, Albemarle’s results and the RBC outlook point to a lithium market entering another important phase.

Lithium Price Remains Well Above 2025 Levels

The latest available benchmark data shows lithium at CNY 144,500 ($21,410) per metric ton on August 11 at the time of writing, up 1.23% from the previous session. Lithium was down about 6.2% over the previous month, but remained almost 94% above its level a year earlier. Trading Economics expects the price to reach about CNY 145,238 per ton by the end of the quarter.

lithium carbonate prices

SMM’s (Shanghai Metals Market) latest assessment put battery-grade lithium carbonate at about $18,910 per ton on August 10, with a range of roughly $18,580 to $19,240.

Prices have also pulled back significantly from their 2026 peak. Benchmark Minerals reported that Chinese lithium carbonate prices reached CNY 182,500 per ton in May, supported by tighter feedstock availability and lower downstream inventories.

The subsequent decline shows that supply remains a major source of price pressure.

Higher Lithium Prices Power Albemarle’s Q2 Surge

Albemarle’s second-quarter results show how strongly higher lithium prices can affect producer earnings. The company reported $1.74 billion in Q2 2026 net sales, up 31.1% from $1.33 billion a year earlier. Net income attributable to Albemarle reached $480 million, compared with $22.9 million in Q2 2025.

Adjusted EBITDA climbed 155% to $858.1 million, while adjusted diluted earnings reached $3.75 per share, compared with $0.11 a year earlier. Recent market coverage also confirmed that both earnings and revenue exceeded analyst expectations.

Albemarle Q2 2026 financial results
Source: Albemarle Financial Report

Lithium was the main driver.

Albemarle’s Energy Storage segment generated $1.28 billion in revenue, up nearly 78% year over year. Sales volumes increased 11% to 65,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE).

The average realized lithium price rose to $19.53 per kilogram of LCE, from $12.17 a year earlier. That was a 60.5% increase.

Energy Storage adjusted EBITDA jumped 229% to $723.5 million. The results show the strong operating leverage in lithium production. Even moderate changes in selling prices can have a much larger impact on earnings.

2026 Albemarle Results Remain Highly Sensitive to Lithium Prices

Albemarle’s 2026 scenarios highlight how much its financial performance depends on lithium prices.

  • At an average price of about $10/kg LCE, the company estimates full-year revenue of $4.1 billion to $4.3 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $900 million to $1 billion.
  • At $20/kg, revenue could reach $5.7 billion to $6 billion, while adjusted EBITDA could rise to $2.4 billion to $2.6 billion.
  • At $30/kg, Albemarle’s model points to $7.5 billion to $7.8 billion in revenue and $4.2 billion to $4.4 billion in adjusted EBITDA.

The company expects 2026 Energy Storage sales volumes of 225,000 to 235,000 metric tons LCE. Higher Wodgina production should partly offset delays to the Talison CGP3 ramp after a June fire.

About 40% of Albemarle’s salts volume, equal to roughly one-third of total volumes, is covered by long-term agreements. This provides some protection from short-term price swings.

Albemarle q2 2026 earnings and lithium price

RBC Stays Bullish on Lithium’s Long-Term Demand

RBC’s latest outlook suggests that weaker prices do not necessarily signal weaker underlying demand. The bank lowered its Albemarle price target to $157 from $166 while keeping an outperform rating. The revision was linked mainly to lower lithium price assumptions rather than a major deterioration in demand.

According to industry analysis, lithium prices cooled during the second quarter as supply concerns returned. However, RBC continues to see support from EVs and energy storage.

That distinction matters for producers. Prices can change quickly, while changes in underlying demand often take longer to appear in sales volumes.

Albemarle’s low-cost operations could also provide an advantage if prices remain under pressure. Its Specialties business offers another source of earnings stability during periods of lithium volatility.

Energy Storage Gives Lithium Demand Another Lift

Energy storage is becoming an increasingly important driver of lithium demand.

Albemarle has forecast global lithium demand of 1.8 million to 2.2 million metric tons in 2026, representing growth of roughly 15% to 40%. EV adoption and stationary energy storage are both expected to contribute.

Albemarle’s Q2 results support that trend. Energy Storage revenue increased nearly 78%, while volumes rose 11%.

Albemarle energy storage results
Source: Albemarle

This means lithium demand is no longer tied only to passenger EVs. Grid batteries and other stationary storage systems are creating another major source of consumption.

Still, supply remains the key risk. Higher prices can encourage new mines to restart and existing producers to increase output. That can quickly create another surplus.

Albemarle Pushes Lower-Carbon Lithium Growth

Albemarle’s growth strategy also includes environmental targets. The company aspires to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. It also aims to reduce the combined carbon intensity of its Catalysts and Bromine businesses by 35% by 2030 and grow its lithium business in a carbon-intensity-neutral manner through 2030.

In 2025, 26% of Albemarle’s electricity came from renewable sources, up from 24% in 2024. Its operations in Chile, Kings Mountain and Qinzhou sourced between 95% and 100% of purchased electricity from renewable sources.

The company reported 1.11 million metric tons of Scope 1 and market-based Scope 2 emissions in 2025, compared with 994,000 tons in 2024. Scope 3 emissions reached 2.71 million tons, bringing total Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions to about 3.82 million tons.

Albemarle GHG emissions 2025
Source: Albemarle 2025 Sustainability Report

Albemarle is also testing direct lithium extraction. Its La Negra pilot in Chile achieved more than 94% lithium recovery over 3,000 hours of operation.

Water management is another focus. Albemarle’s Chile and Jordan operations target a 25% reduction in freshwater intensity by 2030, while Chile had already achieved nearly a 47% reduction from its 2019 baseline.

Lithium’s Next Test: Can Demand Outrun New Supply?

Lithium’s recovery has delivered a major boost to producers such as Albemarle, but prices remain volatile. At CNY 144,500 per ton, lithium is still far above its level a year ago. However, the recent monthly decline and retreat from the May peak show that supply remains a major concern.

Albemarle’s Q2 results demonstrate how higher prices can rapidly improve producer earnings. RBC’s outlook, meanwhile, suggests that underlying EV and energy storage demand remains strong enough to support the longer-term market.

The next phase will depend on the balance between demand and supply. Demand must grow fast enough to absorb new production, while producers need to control costs and capital spending.

For Albemarle, the second quarter shows that it is entering this phase from a stronger financial position. Whether that strength continues will depend largely on whether lithium demand can stay ahead of supply growth.

$400M U.S. Bet on Scandium: Sunrise Energy Metals (SREMF) Eyes American Listing

Saptakee S
-
0
$400M U.S. Bet on Scandium: Sunrise Energy Metals (SREMF) Eyes American Listing

Sunrise Energy Metals (ASX: SRL, OTCQX: SREMF) is preparing to pursue a listing on a U.S. securities exchange after securing a potential US$400 million financing commitment from the U.S. government for its Syerston Scandium Project in New South Wales, Australia.

The funding could become a major turning point for the company and the development of a Western scandium supply chain. The U.S. Department of War’s Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) has conditionally committed up to US$400 million through a proposed 25-year debt facility to support the project.

The company said the financing could significantly reduce the funding and development risks associated with Syerston. The company is now also preparing for a U.S. listing, although the process will require shareholder, court and regulatory approvals.

Sunrise’s Chairman, Mr Robert Friedland, commented:

“This is a landmark moment for Sunrise and Australia’s mining industry, and the
financing aligns with the goals of the U.S.-Australia Partnership on critical minerals.
The world has entered an era in which access to critical minerals will shape industrial
strength, technology leadership and national security. Scandium is one of the clearest
examples, supporting the technologies, industries and defence capabilities that will
shape the coming decades. We thank President Donald J. Trump and the Department of War’s Office of Strategic Capital for its support as we aim to establish Syerston as a cornerstone of Western scandium supply.”

Why Scandium Is Becoming a Strategic Metal

Scandium is a relatively obscure metal, but its importance is growing as governments look to secure materials needed for defense, aerospace and advanced technology.

A Lightweight Metal With High-Tech Uses

The metal is classified as a rare-earth element and has unique properties that make it valuable in specialized applications. When added to aluminum, for example, scandium can improve strength and fatigue resistance while helping reduce weight.

That combination makes scandium-aluminum alloys attractive for aerospace and defense applications. Lighter and stronger materials can improve the performance of aircraft and other high-performance systems.

  • Scandium also has applications in advanced manufacturing, solid oxide fuel cells, and high-intensity lighting.
  • More recently, attention has expanded to technologies linked to artificial intelligence infrastructure and wireless communications.

A Market Constrained by Supply

The global scandium market remains extremely small. Only a limited amount of scandium oxide is traded each year, while commercial production is concentrated in a handful of supply chains. Unlike many major metals, scandium does not have a large network of dedicated mines.

“The U.S. Geological Survey estimated that global consumption of scandium oxide in
2025 was 60 tons, and that the primary global uses were aerospace alloys, other alloys, and solid oxide fuel cells.”

Instead, most scandium is recovered as a byproduct when companies process other minerals such as nickel, titanium, uranium, and rare earths.

That creates a structural problem. Scandium production does not necessarily increase when scandium demand rises because miners are generally producing another commodity as their primary business.

China Dominates a Thin Market

China’s position in global mineral processing has also made it an important source of scandium.

china scandium
Source: Sunrise Energy Metals

U.S. Seeks Greater Scandium Supply Security

This concentration has become increasingly important as the U.S. and other Western economies attempt to reduce dependence on Chinese critical-mineral supply chains.

The issue is not simply the volume of scandium available. The market is so small that disruptions to production, processing, or exports can have an outsized impact on downstream users.

For U.S. manufacturers, developing alternative sources could therefore provide greater supply security.

  • This is particularly relevant for defense and aerospace companies. Scandium can help produce lightweight aluminum alloys used in demanding applications, while its broader technological uses could make the metal increasingly important as advanced manufacturing expands.

The U.S. government has consequently increased its focus on domestic and allied scandium supply. That policy support is now extending beyond research and development toward actual project financing.

US SCANDIUM
Source: USGS

Sunrise’s Syerston Project Offers a New Supply Source

Sunrise’s Syerston project is designed to address this supply gap.

Located in New South Wales, Syerston is being developed as a dedicated primary scandium operation rather than relying on scandium as a secondary byproduct of another mine.

That distinction is important because it could give the project greater control over production volumes and allow supply to respond more directly to demand for scandium.

Updated Feasibility Study

Sunrise completed an updated feasibility study in March 2026.

  • The study outlined a 32-year mine life and annual production of approximately 60 tonnes of high-purity scandium oxide.
  • It also estimated development capital of about A$120 million and relatively low operating costs compared with other potential sources.
SCANDIUM
Source: Sunrise Energy Metals

The project has already progressed through important permitting milestones. Sunrise says its mining lease, development consent and environmental approvals are in place, reducing some of the regulatory uncertainty associated with a new mining project.

Syerston also benefits from a large resource base. The mineralization occurs relatively close to the surface, which could support a straightforward mining operation and help control costs.

The project is therefore positioned not only as a source of scandium, but also as a potential long-term strategic asset for countries seeking supply outside China.

U.S. Listing Could Change Sunrise’s Investor Base

The proposed U.S. listing adds another dimension to the announcement.

Sunrise currently trades on the Australian Securities Exchange and on the OTCQX market in the United States. A full U.S. exchange listing could give the company greater exposure to institutional investors and the world’s largest pool of mining and technology capital.

It could also improve the company’s visibility among U.S. investors focused on critical minerals, defense and strategic supply chains.

However, the listing remains a proposal rather than a completed transaction. Sunrise will need to obtain the required shareholder, court and regulatory approvals before moving forward.

The timing is nevertheless significant. The U.S. government’s financing commitment effectively links Sunrise to Washington’s broader strategy of building resilient critical-mineral supply chains.

SREMF Stock Surges on U.S. Funding Boost

Following the funding announcement, Sunrise Energy Metals’ stock has jumped, putting more focus on its Syerston scandium project. The shares closed at A$18.55 on August 10, close to the company’s 52-week high of A$20.50.

sunrise energy metals
Source: MSN

The rise shows that investors are increasingly optimistic about Syerston’s potential to become a major scandium supplier outside China.

Competition Is Emerging

Sunrise is not the only company targeting a new source of scandium.

USGS also highlighted that NioCorp Developments (NASDAQ: NB) is advancing the Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project in Nebraska. The project is expected to produce scandium oxide alongside niobium and titanium.

NioCorp’s feasibility study estimates potential scandium oxide production of roughly 103 tonnes annually. Construction of the project’s main underground access portal began in February 2026, marking a significant step toward development.

This emerging competition highlights the scale of the opportunity.

For years, the scandium market has remained too small and supply constrained to support widespread adoption. If new projects can increase production and lower costs, the market could expand into applications that are currently uneconomic.

That could create a feedback loop.

More supply could reduce prices. Lower prices could encourage manufacturers to use more scandium. Higher demand could then support additional investment in production and processing capacity.

Sunrise has described this as a potentially much larger market than current consumption suggests.

Critical Minerals Become a Strategic Priority

The Syerston financing comes as the U.S. strengthens its focus on critical minerals and reducing reliance on China.

For Sunrise, the US$400 million conditional commitment could give Syerston a strategic role in the Western scandium supply chain. The project still faces construction, financing, commissioning and customer-qualification hurdles, and the commitment is not yet finalized project financing.

Still, the announcement strengthens Syerston’s outlook as a potential large-scale primary scandium supplier. It also highlights Washington’s growing willingness to support overseas projects that can strengthen allied mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on China.

Ørsted Expands Texas Clean Energy With 250 MW Battery Storage Project Powered by Tesla Megapacks

Saptakee S
-
0
Ørsted Expands Texas Clean Energy With 250 MW Battery Storage Project Powered by Tesla Megapacks

Battery storage is becoming one of the most important technologies supporting the clean energy transition. As more wind and solar power come online, large-scale batteries help keep electricity flowing even when the sun is not shining or the wind is not blowing.

According to the press release, Danish renewable energy company Ørsted has taken another step in that direction by bringing its Old 300 battery energy storage system (BESS) into commercial operation in Needville, Texas.

The new 250-megawatt (MW) / 500-megawatt-hour (MWh) facility strengthens the reliability of the Texas power grid while expanding Ørsted’s growing U.S. renewable energy portfolio.

The project also highlights the increasing role of Tesla’s Megapack battery systems, which are becoming a preferred storage solution for utility-scale renewable energy projects.

Ørsted Adds Large Battery Project in Texas

Old 300 Storage is located alongside the company’s 430 MW Old 300 Solar project in Fort Bend County, Texas. Although the battery system is co-located with the solar farm, it operates independently and stores electricity when supply exceeds demand. It can then send power back to the grid during periods of high electricity use.

This flexibility helps improve grid stability and reduces pressure during periods of extreme demand.

Old 300 Solar: Powering Communities

Old 300 Solar has supplied electricity to nearly 80,000 homes and businesses since it began operating in 2024. At the time, it ranked among the largest solar projects commissioned in the United States.

Together, the solar and battery projects are expected to generate around $110 million in local property tax revenue over their lifetime. Those funds will support schools, emergency services, roads, and other community infrastructure in Fort Bend County.

The project also expands Ørsted’s U.S. onshore renewable energy business, which now includes more than 6 gigawatts (GW) of operating wind, solar, and battery storage projects across eight states.

Tesla Megapacks Power the Storage System

Ørsted selected Tesla’s Megapack battery technology for the project. The Megapacks were manufactured at Tesla’s Megafactory in Lathrop, California, the largest battery storage manufacturing facility in the United States.

Designed specifically for utility-scale applications, Megapacks allow renewable electricity generated during periods of high production to be stored and released when demand increases. This helps utilities reduce dependence on fossil fuel power plants while improving grid reliability.

Tesla’s energy storage business has become one of the company’s fastest-growing divisions.

During its latest quarter, Tesla deployed a record 13.5 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery storage systems, driven largely by strong demand for Megapacks. The rapid growth reflects rising global investment in battery storage as utilities look for reliable ways to integrate renewable energy into electricity grids.

Safety Remains a Priority

Ørsted also worked closely with Tesla and the Needville Fire Department before the project entered service.

The companies provided local emergency responders with training on battery technology, fire response procedures, and operational safety protocols. As battery storage expands across the country, collaboration with first responders is becoming an increasingly important part of project development.

These preparations aim to ensure safe operations throughout the facility’s lifetime while giving local emergency personnel the knowledge needed to respond effectively if required.

Why Battery Storage Matters in Texas

Texas has become the largest battery storage market in North America because of the unique design of its electricity market.

As per sources, unlike many U.S. regions, the Texas grid, managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), operates as an energy-only market. Power producers earn revenue mainly by selling electricity into wholesale markets instead of receiving separate payments simply for keeping generation capacity available.

As a result, electricity prices can change rapidly. Prices rise sharply when electricity becomes scarce and fall just as quickly when supply exceeds demand. During periods of abundant wind or solar generation, wholesale prices can even become negative.

Battery storage systems thrive under these market conditions. They charge when electricity prices are low and discharge stored energy when prices increase, helping stabilize the grid while creating new revenue opportunities for operators.

Recent years have also shown how valuable battery storage can be during periods of high electricity demand. Batteries help reduce the need for energy conservation alerts by supplying additional power during peak hours.

Texas Battery Capacity Continues to Surge

Battery deployment across Texas has accelerated at an extraordinary pace.

According to Modo Energy’s ERCOT’s latest Annual Buildout Report, approximately 6 GW of new battery capacity entered commercial operation during 2025, making it the largest year for battery installations in the state’s history.

  • The additions increased Texas’ operational battery fleet to approximately 13.9 GW of power capacity and 22.9 GWh of energy storage entering 2026—almost double the previous year’s total.

Industry analysts expect this rapid growth to continue. The report projects that Texas could have between 40 GW and 55 GW of operational battery storage by 2029, depending on future project completion rates.

Unlike many other electricity markets, this expansion is being driven largely by market economics rather than government incentives or long-term capacity payments. The volatility of the ERCOT market continues to make battery storage an attractive investment.

Ørsted Continues to Grow Its Global Renewable Portfolio

Beyond Texas, Ørsted continues to expand its renewable energy business worldwide.

  • According to the company’s Q1 2026 financial report, its installed renewable energy capacity reached 18.8 GW as of March 31, 2026, up from 18.5 GW at the end of 2025.

The increase came primarily from an additional 260 MW of onshore wind capacity. Meanwhile, offshore wind, solar, battery storage, and bioenergy capacity remained largely unchanged during the quarter.

The company generated 11.3 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity during the first quarter, with 98% coming from renewable energy sources.

Offshore wind generation increased 27% year over year to 6.9 TWh, supported by stronger wind conditions and higher production from the Borkum Riffgrund 3 and Greater Changhua 4 offshore wind farms.

Orsted renewable
Source: Orsted

Battery Storage: A Core Part of the Energy Transition

The launch of Old 300 Storage reflects a broader shift in renewable energy development. Solar and wind projects are increasingly being paired with large battery systems that can store clean electricity and deliver it when demand is highest.

As electricity consumption rises because of data centers, artificial intelligence, electrification, and population growth, reliable battery storage is becoming essential for modern power systems.

For Ørsted, the Texas project strengthens its position as one of America’s largest renewable power producers. For Tesla, it showcases the growing demand for utility-scale battery technology. And for Texas, it represents another milestone in building a cleaner, more flexible, and more reliable electricity grid.

Indonesia Builds the Rulebook for Global Carbon Credit Trading Under Article 6

Jennifer L
-
0
Indonesia Builds the Rulebook for Global Carbon Credit Trading Under Article 6

Indonesia is moving closer to becoming one of the world’s leading suppliers of high-quality carbon credits. The government plans to create an Article 6 methodology panel and a national nesting framework. These two systems will help Indonesia prepare for international carbon trading under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Article 6 allows countries to trade verified emissions reductions while making sure the same carbon reduction is not counted twice.

The new methodology panel will review how carbon projects measure emissions cuts. It will include scientists, researchers, and technical experts. The panel will check whether project methods follow both Indonesian rules and international standards.

At the same time, the government plans to complete the national nesting framework within 12 to 18 months. These changes come as more countries prepare to trade carbon credits across borders. Strong rules are now essential for attracting climate investment and building trust among buyers.

Indonesia Has One of the World’s Largest Carbon Assets

Indonesia starts with one major advantage—its forests. According to the Ministry of Forestry, the country has about 95.5 million hectares of forest. This gives Indonesia the third-largest tropical rainforest in the world, after Brazil and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

forest cover in indonesia islands
Source: FAO

Indonesia is also home to the largest mangrove forests on Earth. They cover about 3.44 million hectares, or around 20% of the world’s total mangrove area. Mangroves are powerful carbon sinks. They can store several times more carbon per hectare than many tropical forests. They also protect coastlines and support wildlife.

The country also has one of the world’s largest tropical peatland areas. Together, its forests, mangroves, and peatlands store billions of tonnes of carbon. Protecting these ecosystems is important for both Indonesia’s climate goals and global efforts to slow climate change.

Indonesia’s Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU) Net Sink 2030 program aims for a net carbon sink of 140 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (MtCO₂e) by 2030. The plan includes reducing deforestation, restoring forests, protecting peatlands, restoring mangroves, and improving land management.

Why the New Framework Matters

Large forests alone are not enough to build a successful carbon market. Buyers also need to know that every carbon credit is real and counted only once. That is why the new nesting framework is important.

It will connect carbon projects with Indonesia’s national greenhouse gas inventory. If a forest project earns carbon credits, it will also record emissions reductions in the country’s climate accounts. This prevents double counting, which is one of the main rules under Article 6.

The framework will also help Indonesia approve carbon credits for international trading through Corresponding Adjustments. These adjustments are one of the key requirements for high-integrity Article 6 carbon markets.

Building on an Existing Carbon Market

Indonesia has already taken important steps to build its carbon market. The country launched IDXCarbon, its national carbon exchange, in September 2023. Companies also register carbon projects and report emissions through the government’s National Registry System (SRN-PPI).

The new methodology panel and nesting framework build on these systems.

Together, they can strengthen Indonesia’s carbon market, boost investor confidence, and help the country become a top supplier of Article 6 carbon credits in the future. According to analysts, the country has the following carbon market potential.

Indonesia’s carbon market potential
Source: PwC

Indonesia’s Carbon Market Is Growing Quickly

Indonesia is not starting from zero. Over the past few years, the country has built many of the key pieces needed for a national carbon market.

The IDXCarbon allows companies to buy and sell carbon credits and emissions allowances under government supervision. By July 2025, the exchange recorded over 1.6 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) traded. The total transaction value reached about IDR 77 billion, which is roughly US$4.7 million. More than 100 organizations had joined the market as registered users.

The government is now taking the next step.

By introducing an Article 6 methodology panel and a national nesting framework, Indonesia is preparing its domestic market for international carbon trading. These new systems will help make sure carbon credits meet global standards. This way, they can be traded with other countries under the Paris Agreement.

A Bigger Opportunity for Forest Carbon Credits

Indonesia’s forests could become one of its biggest climate assets. Its FOLU Net Sink 2030 program aims to make the forestry and land-use sector a net carbon sink.

According to Ecosystem Marketplace, the global Forestry and Land Use sector successfully resisted the broader carbon market’s 25% volume drop in 2024. It maintained stable overall transaction volumes and captured 87% of all supplier demand inquiries. The World Bank also found that highly rated forest conservation and reforestation credits continued to command price premiums in 2025.

Indonesia is already attracting international interest. In July 2026, Verra said it expects to issue at least 20 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent from three Indonesian forestry projects under the country’s updated carbon market rules. These projects show the potential for Indonesia to supply large volumes of higher-quality forest credits to the growing international market.

Global Demand for Article 6 Credits Is Rising

The timing of this move may be good. Countries are beginning to move from discussing Article 6 to putting it into practice. Governments are negotiating carbon trading agreements, while companies are looking for credits with stronger environmental integrity.

The International Emissions Trading Association (IETA) estimates that Article 6 could reduce the cost of meeting global climate targets by as much as $250 billion every year by 2030. The mechanism could also channel billions of dollars into developing countries that can supply high-quality emissions reductions.

article 6 agreements AlliedOffsets
Source: AlliedOffsets

Nature-based projects are expected to play an important role. Indonesia’s forests, mangroves, and peatlands give it one of the largest potential supplies of these credits. A clear methodology and a trusted nesting framework could make those credits more attractive to governments and corporate buyers.

A New Chapter for Indonesia’s Carbon Economy

Indonesia’s latest announcement is about new regulations, as well as about building trust. High-quality carbon markets depend on clear rules, transparent accounting, and confidence that every credit represents a real emissions reduction. The new methodology panel and nesting framework are designed to provide exactly that.

Much work remains before the system is fully operational, but the direction is clear.

If Indonesia successfully completes these reforms, it could become one of the world’s leading suppliers of Article 6 carbon credits. That would support forest conservation, attract more climate investment, and create new economic opportunities while helping countries and companies meet their net-zero goals.

For the global carbon market, Indonesia is no longer just protecting one of the world’s largest tropical forests. It is building the institutions needed to turn those forests into one of the world’s most important sources of high-integrity carbon credits.

Trump Unveils $2 Billion Mining Push for US Critical Mineral Independence

Saptakee S
-
0
Trump Unveils $2 Billion Mining Push for US Critical Mineral Independence

The Trump administration is boosting the U.S. mining industry to lessen dependence on foreign critical minerals. On August 7, the President met with mining leaders at the White House. The administration announced over $2 billion in new investments for mining and related projects. More than $180 million will also support mining schools and workforce programs.

This move comes as the U.S. needs to secure minerals for batteries, electronics, defense, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

The country relies heavily on imports for many critical minerals. The U.S. is entirely dependent on imports for 11 critical minerals, including graphite, gallium, scandium, and yttrium.

us China import dependent critical mineral

This reliance poses economic and national security risks. Disruptions in global supplies could raise costs for American manufacturers and slow production.

Billions for US Critical Mineral Projects

The press release revealed that the new investments target various parts of the critical mineral supply chain, from mining to battery materials and manufacturing.

Defense Drives Bauxite and Magnet Investments

The Department of War plans to invest over $85 million in Standard Bauxite. This funding will secure domestic supplies of refractory-grade bauxite, essential for high-temperature-resistant products in industry and defense.

The department will also invest $150 million in Niron Magnetics, a Minnesota company that creates rare-earth-free permanent magnets. This aims to build a U.S. alternative to foreign magnets.

Magnets are crucial for electric motors, defense equipment, electronics, and advanced technologies. Reducing reliance on foreign supplies could strengthen multiple U.S. industries.

$1.4 Billion Boost for Battery Manufacturing

Another major investment goes to Sila Nanotechnologies. The Department of War is investing $1.4 billion to boost production of silicon-carbon battery anodes and establish a lithium-ion battery cell manufacturing facility.

These materials support various uses, from satellites to defense equipment.

Scandium Project Targets Aerospace Demand

The department will invest $400 million in Sunrise Energy Metals to develop a domestic scandium supply chain. This could lead to the world’s first primary scandium mine.

Scandium is vital in high-performance aluminum alloys, important for fighter aircraft and spacecraft.

US Backs Boron and Graphite Supply

The Export-Import Bank is also backing several critical mineral projects.

It plans to invest $8 million in 5E Advanced Materials for a boron deposit in California. Boron is used in permanent magnets, semiconductors, and glass.

Tantalum, Niobium and Rare Earths Gain Support

Another $25 million will support Westwater Resources in developing its Coosa Graphite Deposit in Alabama. Graphite is crucial for batteries and will be increasingly important as U.S. battery production expands.

The bank will invest $25 million in Global Advanced Materials in Pennsylvania, focusing on tantalum and niobium for electronics, magnets, and steel.

Rare Earth Mine in Madagascar

Additionally, the U.S. Development Finance Corporation will match a $4.8 million investment in Harena Rare Earths. This project aims to develop a rare earth mine in Madagascar to benefit American manufacturers.

Here’s a summary of the investment plan:

us critical mineral
Data Source: White House Press Release

Mining Workforce Funding

Building mines alone won’t resolve the supply chain issue. The U.S. needs skilled workers to operate them. That’s why the administration is allocating over $180 million for mining education and workforce development.

  • The Department of Energy will invest $100 million across 14 U.S. mining schools to enhance training and increase skilled graduates.
  • The Department of War will provide over $80 million to three schools for workforce programs and technology hubs.

These programs will train future geologists, metallurgists, and mining engineers.

This workforce initiative addresses a long-standing problem. While demand for critical minerals has risen, domestic mining and processing capacity has declined.

Consequently, the U.S. has become more reliant on foreign supply chains.

US-China Competition Heightens Stakes

The push to grow domestic mining comes as the U.S. and China compete over critical minerals.

Bloomberg reported that the White House event emphasized efforts to speed up U.S. mining ahead of a planned September visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump stated that domestic mining activity is quickly expanding under his administration. He highlighted the reopening of mines and new industrial facilities.

The U.S. is particularly focused on rare earth elements. China remains dominant in the global rare earth supply chain, especially in processing and magnet production.

  • According to customs data from Reuters, China exported about 62,600 metric tons of rare earth products in 2025, up from about 55,400 metric tons in 2024.

china rare earth

While a recent trade truce eased some export restrictions on critical minerals, tensions remain between the two largest economies. However, for the U.S., the challenge lies not just in finding more mineral deposits but also in developing the infrastructure for mining, processing, refining, manufacturing, and recycling those materials domestically.

A Mine-to-Magnet Supply Chain

The latest investments reflect a strategy to build a secure domestic supply chain.

Critical minerals are essential across the modern economy. They power electric vehicles, batteries, smartphones, computers, factory equipment, aircraft, and military systems.

Thus, securing supply is increasingly vital.

Since January 2025, the Trump administration has signed or approved 160 minerals-related deals worth nearly $40 billion. These projects aim to boost domestic production, attract investment, and create jobs.

The administration has also employed trade policies, including Section 232 measures, to protect industries crucial for U.S. national and economic security. These measures cover products like steel, aluminum, copper, automobiles, timber, semiconductors, critical minerals, and pharmaceuticals.

The latest mining investments build on this strategy.

However, building a competitive domestic mineral industry will take time. New mines require years of permitting, construction, and investment, while processing and refining capacity must expand alongside production.

Still, the August 7 announcement marks a major step toward strengthening U.S. critical mineral supply chains. As demand for batteries, electronics, and defense technologies grows, secure domestic supplies will become increasingly important.

The U.S. aims to build a complete supply chain, from mining and processing to manufacturing. This could reduce exposure to geopolitical risks while supporting American mining, manufacturing, and clean energy industries.

Google Signs 15-Year Solar PPA With RWE for 155 MW Oklahoma Project

Saptakee S
-
0
Google Signs 15-Year Solar PPA With RWE for 155 MW Oklahoma Project

Google is expanding its renewable energy portfolio in Oklahoma through a new 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with German energy company RWE. Under the agreement, Google will purchase all of the electricity generated by RWE’s 155-megawatt (MWac) Crooked Creek Solar project in McCurtain County, Oklahoma.

RWE Expands Solar Presence in Oklahoma

Ingmar Ritzenhofen, Chief Commercial Officer, RWE Americas:

“This agreement with Google marks an important milestone for RWE Americas and reflects the growing demand for affordable, reliable, domestically produced energy. Crooked Creek Solar demonstrates how strategic partnerships can accelerate new energy development while creating jobs, generating local tax revenue and strengthening communities. We’re proud to work with Google to help power its operations, while supporting Oklahoma’s continued economic growth with affordable, American-made energy.”

Crooked Creek Solar will be RWE’s first solar project in Oklahoma. The company already operates the 148 MW Boiling Springs wind project in Woodward County.

The company plans to begin construction on the project later this year. Crooked Creek Solar is expected to start commercial operations in 2028.

Once online, the solar project will supply electricity to support Google’s operations in the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) market. At the same time, it will create jobs, generate tax revenue, and provide long-term economic benefits for communities in southeastern Oklahoma.

RWE also has six additional power projects totaling about 1.6 gigawatts (GW) in development across the state.

Crooked Creek Solar: Boost Jobs, Tax Revenue and Local Investment

The company expects Crooked Creek Solar to create up to 250 jobs during peak construction. Construction activity is estimated to generate around $24.3 million in local economic activity.

The project is also expected to provide about $1.4 million in state and local tax revenue during construction.

Once the solar facility begins operating, its economic impact will continue. RWE estimates that Crooked Creek Solar could generate approximately $25 million in revenue over its operating life for local programs, emergency medical services, the Broken Bow School District, and regional technology education centers.

These benefits are becoming increasingly important as communities seek to attract new investment while expanding local power infrastructure. It has also contributed more than $100,000 through donations, sponsorships, and community partnerships in Oklahoma.

Google Continues to Secure Clean Power

For Google, the new PPA is part of a broader strategy to secure more electricity from clean energy sources.

The company has been increasing its renewable energy purchases as its electricity needs rise. Data centers supporting cloud computing and AI require large, reliable power supplies.

In 2025, Google signed agreements for more than 12 GW of new clean energy capacity. The company also launched more than 25 energy projects that added nearly 2 GW of new carbon-free electricity to the grids serving its operations.

At the same time, Google reported progress in reducing emissions from its own operations.

  • Its combined Scope 1 and market-based Scope 2 emissions declined by about 2% in 2025 to roughly 2.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). That marked the second consecutive year of lower operational emissions.

Google is also working toward matching 100% of its annual electricity consumption with renewable energy purchases.

google emissions

The company’s approach is increasingly focused not only on buying renewable energy but also on bringing new clean power projects onto electricity grids.

Oklahoma Becomes a Major Google Investment Hub

The Crooked Creek agreement comes as Google increases its investment in Oklahoma.

The company has announced plans to invest $9 billion in the state to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure. The investment includes the development and expansion of data center infrastructure needed to support growing digital services.

Google has also secured another major solar PPA in Oklahoma this year. In May, the company signed a 15-year agreement with Enlight to purchase electricity from a 200 MW solar project.

Together, these agreements show how Google is using long-term power contracts to support the electricity needs of its growing operations.

google clean energy

For renewable energy developers, deals with major technology companies can also provide long-term revenue certainty. PPAs typically allow developers to secure a buyer for their electricity over many years, helping support financing and construction of large-scale projects.

Data Centers Are Driving Electricity Demand

The timing of these agreements is significant because electricity demand from data centers is rising rapidly.

AI applications require powerful computing systems, and those systems consume large amounts of electricity. As companies expand AI infrastructure, they are looking for additional power supplies that can operate reliably while also helping them meet emissions targets.

A new BloombergNEF (BNEF) analysis shows just how fast that demand is growing. It projects that data centers could consume about 20% of all U.S. electricity by 2035, up from 5.9% today.

data center electricity demand

Over the coming years, the country will therefore need substantial new generation capacity to meet this growing demand.

This is pushing companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Meta to secure electricity through long-term agreements with renewable energy developers. These contracts can help companies manage power needs while adding more clean generation to the grid.

However, renewable energy is only one part of the solution. Data centers require electricity around the clock, while solar and wind generation changes with weather and time of day.

As a result, companies and utilities are increasingly looking at a combination of solar, wind, battery storage, nuclear power, and other flexible generation resources.

Solar Takes Center Stage in U.S. Power Growth

Solar power is expected to play a major role in meeting the country’s growing electricity needs.

The U.S. solar industry installed about 7.8 GWdc of solar capacity during the first quarter of 2026. Solar also accounted for around 60% of new U.S. electricity-generating capacity additions during the quarter, according to Energy Information Administration (EIA) data.

EIA US solar

  • According to SEIA, the country’s total solar capacity is now around 210 GW, while solar generates roughly 8% of U.S. electricity.

More importantly, developers are adding tens of gigawatts of new solar capacity each year. This makes solar one of the fastest ways to bring additional electricity generation onto the grid.

For technology companies, solar PPAs can therefore provide access to large amounts of new electricity while supporting the expansion of renewable generation.

us solar pv additions

RWE Plans Major U.S. Energy Investment

RWE is also making the United States a major part of its global growth strategy. The company currently has approximately 13 GW of installed generation capacity across 27 U.S. states. Its portfolio includes solar, onshore wind, and battery storage projects.

  • By 2031, RWE plans to invest a net €17 billion in the U.S. This represents nearly half of its planned global investment of €35 billion.

The company expects these investments to add around 9 GW of new generation capacity, taking its total U.S. installed capacity to approximately 22 GW.

Alongside renewable energy, RWE plans to develop flexible generation capacity, including gas-fired peaking plants. These facilities can provide additional power when electricity demand is high and help support grid reliability.

The company’s U.S. strategy comes after RWE agreed to a $1.22 billion settlement with the U.S. Department of the Interior involving the relinquishment of several offshore wind leases.

Despite this change in its offshore strategy, RWE continues to invest in U.S. energy infrastructure, particularly projects that can respond to rising electricity demand.

Google’s Clean Energy Push Reflects a Bigger Shift

The Crooked Creek Solar PPA shows how renewable energy is becoming increasingly important to the technology sector.

Google needs more electricity to support its cloud and AI expansion. At the same time, the company is under pressure to control emissions from its growing operations. And long-term renewable energy agreements offer one way to address both challenges.

As U.S. electricity demand continues to rise, projects like Crooked Creek Solar could become increasingly important.

The broader trend is clear: major technology companies are becoming some of the largest buyers of new clean power, while energy developers are responding with bigger solar, wind, storage, and other generation projects.

Google’s latest agreement with RWE is another example of that shift, linking the rapid growth of AI and data centers with the expansion of America’s renewable energy infrastructure.

Inside China’s New 5-Year Climate Plan, and Why the World Is Watching

Jennifer L
-
0
Inside China’s New 5-Year Climate Plan, and Why the World Is Watching

China has released one of its most important climate policy documents in years. The new climate action plan sets the country’s direction for cutting emissions during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030). It is designed to help China achieve its long-standing goals of peaking carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions before 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality before 2060.

The plan goes beyond climate policy. It covers energy, industry, transport, buildings, technology, and carbon markets. Together, these sectors account for most of China’s greenhouse gas emissions. The government says the plan will help build a cleaner economy while supporting energy security and economic growth.

The world is paying close attention.

China is the largest emitter of carbon dioxide, producing about 30% of global CO₂ emissions. It is also the world’s biggest producer of solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles. That means changes in China’s climate policy can influence clean energy investment, supply chains, and carbon markets around the world.

China Charts Its Course Toward 2030 and Net Zero

The plan introduces two headline targets for 2030.

  • China will reduce its carbon intensity—the amount of CO₂ emitted for every unit of economic output—by 17% from 2025 levels. It also aims to increase the share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption to 25% by 2030.

These targets aim to help China peak its carbon emissions before 2030. They also set the stage for more significant cuts in the future. The plan will also support China’s next nationally determined contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement, which will cover climate action beyond 2030.

IEA’s suggested path towards carbon neutrality for China
Source: IEA

Unlike some earlier plans, however, this roadmap does not set an absolute cap on national CO₂ emissions. Instead, it continues to rely mainly on carbon intensity targets. Carbon Brief notes that, given economic growth, this approach might allow China’s total emissions to increase over the next five years. This would happen even as emissions become more efficient per unit of GDP.

Clean Energy Remains at the Center

Renewable energy remains the backbone of China’s climate strategy.

The plan calls for faster development of wind, solar, hydropower, nuclear power, and other non-fossil energy sources. It also helps create a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient energy system. Plus, it improves electricity transmission and storage to manage more renewable power.

China already leads the world in clean energy deployment. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the country has installed more renewable electricity capacity in recent years than any other country. It is also the world’s largest manufacturer of solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles, giving it a central role in the global energy transition.

Those investments are beginning to affect emissions.

Carbon Brief’s latest analysis found that China’s CO₂ emissions have been flat or falling for 21 consecutive months. The country’s emissions declined by 1% in the final quarter of 2025, leading to an estimated 0.3% decline for the full year. Rapid growth in clean electricity has helped offset rising demand from other sectors.

China carbon emissions
Source: CarbonBrief

SEE MORE: China’s 15th Five-Year Plan Commits $2.94 Trillion to Reach 50% Clean Electricity by 2030

China Expands Its Focus Beyond Carbon Dioxide

The new plan also gives more attention to non-CO₂ greenhouse gases, such as methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases. These gases make up a much smaller share of China’s emissions than carbon dioxide, but many trap far more heat in the atmosphere.

According to Carbon Brief’s analysis, non-CO₂ gases accounted for about 19% of China’s total greenhouse gas emissions in 2021. Methane was the largest source. It came mainly from coal mining, agriculture, oil and gas production, waste, and wastewater. 

The plan aims to better control emissions. It includes:

  • Improving methane monitoring,
  • Reducing leaks from the energy sector,
  • Promoting cleaner farming practices, and
  • Strengthening management of industrial gases.

Carbon dioxide is the main focus, but tackling non-CO₂ gases could provide quicker climate benefits. Many of these gases warm the planet much more than CO₂ in the short term.

China Strengthens the World’s Largest Carbon Market

The new climate plan also strengthens China’s carbon market. It calls for further improvements to the national emissions trading system (ETS), which is already the world’s largest carbon market by covered emissions. The ETS currently covers the power sector and is expected to expand gradually to other heavy industries.

china compliance carbon market ets
Source: WEF Asia’s Carbon Markets Strategic Imperatives for Corporations_2025.

China plans to improve carbon accounting, emissions monitoring, verification, and trading rules. The goal is to make carbon pricing a stronger tool for reducing emissions while supporting cleaner industrial growth. The plan also encourages better links between carbon markets, green finance, and climate investment.

These changes could also support international carbon trading under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. As more countries build carbon markets, stronger accounting rules will become increasingly important to avoid double counting and improve market confidence.

Clean Technology and Heavy Industry Enter a New Phase

Heavy industry remains one of China’s biggest climate challenges. Steel, cement, chemicals, and other energy-intensive industries still produce a large share of the country’s emissions. The new plan calls for cleaner production, higher energy efficiency, and faster adoption of low-carbon technologies across these sectors.

Technology will play a major role. The government will support innovation in:

  • Advanced manufacturing,
  • Clean energy equipment,
  • Energy storage,
  • Hydrogen,
  • Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), and
  • Other low-carbon technologies.

These industries are expected to help reduce emissions while supporting economic growth and global competitiveness.

China already has a strong foundation. According to the IEA, the country produces most of the world’s solar panels and lithium-ion batteries and leads global electric vehicle manufacturing. Continued investment in these sectors could help lower clean energy costs worldwide while supporting China’s own climate goals.

china renewable solar wind energy additions

How China’s Climate Decisions Will Shape Global Markets

China’s climate decisions reach far beyond its borders. The country is a major supplier of clean energy technologies used around the world. It also has the world’s largest national carbon market by covered emissions and plays an increasingly important role in global climate negotiations.

For investors, businesses, and governments, the new five-year plan offers a clearer picture of where China intends to invest over the rest of this decade. It signals continued support for clean energy and low-carbon industries while keeping the country’s long-term climate goals firmly in place.

China 5 year climate plan

It also provides a roadmap for how the world’s largest emitter plans to balance economic growth with climate action during a critical decade for global decarbonization. China intends to keep expanding its clean economy. Because of the country’s size and influence, the success—or failure—of this five-year plan will shape not only China’s climate future, but also the pace of the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

BYD’s (BYDDY Stock) Record EV Sales Power Its Race Toward Net Zero and Global Market Dominance

Jennifer L
-
0
BYD’s (BYDDY Stock) Record EV Sales Power Its Race Toward Net Zero and Global Market Dominance

Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD continues to widen its lead in the global EV market. The company sold 233,105 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in July 2026, up 31% from the same month last year. It was BYD’s third-highest monthly BEV sales on record and another sign that demand remains strong both in China and overseas.

When plug-in hybrids are included, BYD delivered about 419,211 new energy vehicles (NEVs) during the month. That marked another solid performance after the company surpassed the 2 million-vehicle mark earlier this year.

July also showed strength beyond passenger cars. BYD sold 8,139 commercial vehicles, including buses and trucks, up 149% year-over-year. It was the company’s best commercial vehicle month ever and highlights its growing role in electrifying public transport and freight.

At the same time, BYD achieved another major milestone outside China. The company exported 179,841 passenger vehicles in July, up 124.3% from a year earlier and the highest monthly export volume in its history. 

Overseas deliveries now account for nearly 43% of vehicles BYD sells. These results show that international markets are becoming one of the company’s biggest growth drivers.

Record Exports Put BYD in the Global Fast Lane

For years, BYD depended mainly on China’s domestic market. That is changing quickly.

The company is expanding across Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, Australia, and the Middle East. It continues to launch new dealerships, open regional headquarters, and build local production facilities to serve overseas customers.

Europe remains one of its biggest targets. BYD now sells vehicles in more than 20 European countries. It is also building passenger car plants in Hungary and Türkiye to shorten delivery times and reduce import costs. Those factories are expected to strengthen BYD’s position as competition grows in Europe’s EV market.

BYD-vehicle-sales-outside-China-July-2026
Source: CleanTechnica

The Chinese EV maker is following a similar strategy in other regions. In Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia, and Mexico, BYD is expanding manufacturing and assembly operations while increasing investments in charging infrastructure and sales networks.

This global push is paying off. Record exports helped offset slower growth in China’s broader auto market and reduced BYD’s dependence on any single country.

BYD shares rose about 0.8% on August 4, 2026, after the company reported record July exports and another month of strong EV sales. Investors welcomed the continued growth in overseas deliveries, which helped offset weaker demand in China’s domestic market. Analysts said the export momentum reinforces confidence in BYD’s long-term global expansion strategy.

BYD BYDDY stock price

Commercial EVs Become a New Growth Engine

Passenger cars remain BYD’s biggest business, but commercial vehicles are growing even faster. The company’s 149% jump in commercial vehicle sales reflects rising demand for electric buses, trucks, and delivery vehicles.

Cities around the world are replacing diesel buses with electric fleets to improve air quality and reduce emissions. Logistics companies are also adding electric trucks as battery technology improves and operating costs fall.

BYD has become one of the world’s largest electric bus manufacturers. Its buses now operate in more than 400 cities across over 70 countries, according to the company. These vehicles have helped transit agencies lower fuel costs while cutting greenhouse gas emissions from public transportation.

Commercial vehicles could become an increasingly important source of future growth as governments tighten emissions rules and businesses electrify their fleets.

Scaling EV Production While Cutting Carbon

BYD’s rapid growth also supports its broader sustainability strategy. The company has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations by 2045. It is working toward that goal by expanding renewable energy, improving factory efficiency, and reducing emissions throughout its supply chain.

BYD emissions reduction plan
Source: BYD

Battery technology remains one of BYD’s biggest strengths.

Its Blade Battery, introduced in 2020, uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. These batteries avoid nickel and cobalt, improve safety, and typically have a longer operating life. They also help lower production costs, giving BYD a pricing advantage in many markets.

The company continues to expand renewable electricity at its manufacturing sites while improving recycling and energy management. According to its latest sustainability report, BYD has also increased the use of rooftop solar systems and energy-saving technologies across its factories to reduce operational emissions.

These investments support both higher production and lower carbon intensity as the company expands worldwide.

BYD ghg emissions 2025
Source: BYD

SEE MORE: BYD Opens America’s Largest Battery Project in Chile and Expands in Europe Despite Stock (BYDDY) Slump

The Global EV Market Keeps Breaking Records

BYD’s strong July results come as the global EV market continues to grow.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global electric car sales exceeded 20 million units in 2025, making up more than 25% of all new car sales worldwide. The agency expects sales to continue rising through the rest of this decade as battery prices fall and more affordable models enter the market.

China remains the world’s largest EV market. The country accounted for more than half of global EV sales in 2024. It also leads the world in battery production, charging infrastructure, and electric bus deployment. These advantages have helped companies like BYD scale production faster than many global rivals.

The market is also becoming more competitive.

Chinese automakers are expanding into Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. At the same time, established brands such as Tesla, Volkswagen, Hyundai, and Ford are introducing new EV models to defend their market share.

Scale Is Giving BYD an Edge

BDY EV sales July 2026

One of BYD’s biggest strengths is that it controls much of its own supply chain. The company designs and builds its own batteries, electric motors, and many of the key parts used in its vehicles. This reduces costs and helps protect production from supply chain disruptions.

It also gives BYD more flexibility to launch new models quickly and keep prices competitive. That advantage has become even more important as battery prices continue to fall and competition increases across the global EV market.

A Bigger Role in the Global Energy Transition

BYD’s latest sales report shows another strong month. The company is becoming one of the biggest forces in the global shift to electric transportation.

Strong domestic demand continues to support its business, but record exports and rapid growth in commercial vehicles show that BYD is now competing on a much larger stage.

At the same time, its investments in cleaner manufacturing, renewable energy, and battery technology support its long-term goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2045.

As countries work to reduce transport emissions, companies that can produce affordable electric vehicles at large scale will likely play a bigger role in the transition. BYD’s latest results suggest it is becoming one of those companies. Its combination of growing exports, expanding commercial vehicle sales, and continued investment in clean technology is helping shape the next chapter of the global EV market.

Brazil’s Mombak Delivers Amazon Carbon Credits Early, Giving Google a Climate Win

Jennifer L
-
0
Brazil’s Mombak Delivers Amazon Carbon Credits Early, Giving Google a Climate Win

Brazilian carbon removal company Mombak has reached an important milestone. The company has delivered its first carbon removal credits more than two years earlier than planned. The early delivery shows that large forest restoration projects can remove carbon at commercial scale and meet their commitments.

The first issuance includes more than 21,000 verified carbon removal credits. These credits were originally expected in 2028. Buyers include Google, McKinsey & Company, McLaren Racing, Bain & Company, Climeworks, Commons, and Union Square Ventures.

Mombak expects to issue more than 55,000 additional carbon credits before the end of 2026, increasing the total volume delivered this year.

The early delivery matters because many carbon projects have struggled to meet their timelines. Mombak is showing that high-quality carbon removal projects can deliver earlier than expected.

Restoring the Amazon, One Tree at a Time

Mombak does not protect existing forests. Instead, it restores land that has already been cleared.

The company buys or partners with owners of degraded cattle pasture in Brazil’s Amazon region. It then plants native trees to rebuild the rainforest. As the trees grow, they remove carbon dioxide from the air. This creates carbon removal credits, not avoided-emissions credits.

So far, Mombak has planted nearly 15 million native trees across 12 restoration projects in the state of Pará. At dense planting spacing, over 30 square miles, the trees would completely cover Manhattan, New York, and overflow into parts of Brooklyn.

The removal company uses more than 80 native Amazon tree species to rebuild forests that closely match the original ecosystem. Their restoration projects also provide other benefits. They improve biodiversity, restore soil, protect rivers, and create jobs for local communities.

This historic early credit issuance was officially issued via the scientific registry Isometric.

Mombak Chief Commercial Officer Dan Harburg noted:

“The carbon market has unfortunately had a lot of challenges with underdeliveries and late deliveries from suppliers across the board. Being two years early in some of our first deliveries is really valuable for the relationships that we build with existing buyers and with other buyers.”

Why Google and Microsoft Are Backing Mombak

The latest delivery builds on several major agreements.

Google first agreed to buy 50,000 tons of carbon removal from Mombak. It later expanded the deal to 200,000 metric tons in late 2025, making it one of Google’s biggest nature-based carbon removal purchases.

Microsoft signed an even larger agreement. It plans to buy 1.5 million metric tons of carbon removal through 2032. The deal supports Microsoft’s goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030 and removing all of its historical emissions by 2050.

Mombak is also the first restoration partner selected by the Symbiosis Coalition. The coalition includes Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Salesforce. Together, the group plans to buy up to 20 million metric tons of high-quality nature-based carbon removal by 2030.

These agreements show that major technology companies are putting more money into long-term carbon removal instead of relying only on traditional carbon offsets.

A Fast-Growing Carbon Removal Company

Mombak is still a young company. It was founded in 2021 but has grown quickly.

The startup has raised more than $200 million from investors. These include Bain Capital, AXA IM Alts, Lowercarbon Capital, Kaszek Ventures, and Union Square Ventures. Earlier this year, it raised another US$30 million to expand forest restoration projects across Brazil.

The company has also signed about $150 million in carbon removal agreements with corporate buyers. Mombak says demand continues to grow as more companies look for trusted carbon removal projects to help meet their net-zero goals.

Mombak’s business model is different from many forest carbon developers. Instead of protecting existing forests, it restores degraded cattle pasture into native rainforest. The company either buys land or partners with landowners, then plants diverse native tree species and manages the forests over the long term. This approach creates measurable carbon removals while helping restore biodiversity and improve local ecosystems.

Early Delivery Builds Trust in Carbon Removal

The early delivery sends an important message. The voluntary carbon market (VCM) has faced criticism in recent years. Some projects delivered fewer credits than promised. Others missed their timelines. That has made many buyers more careful.

Mombak is moving in the opposite direction. It delivered verified carbon removals years ahead of schedule. That gives buyers more confidence that nature-based carbon removal projects can deliver real results.

As demand for carbon removal grows, companies that consistently deliver high-quality credits on time—or even early—could help set a new standard for the global carbon market.

Carbon Removal Demand Is Accelerating Worldwide

Mombak’s early delivery reflects a bigger trend.

More companies are buying carbon removal credits to help meet their net-zero goals. Many have already cut emissions from their own operations. Now they need durable carbon removal to deal with emissions that are harder to eliminate.

The market is growing quickly.

According to CDR.fyi, companies signed contracts for a record 8 million metric tons of durable carbon removal in 2025. Technology companies remained the biggest buyers. Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta, and Stripe continue to lead the market by supporting both nature-based and engineered carbon removal projects.

durable-cdr-purchase-trends-2022-2026q1

Scientists say demand will need to grow much further.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates the world will need to remove billions of tons of CO₂ every year this century to help limit global warming to 1.5°C. The International Energy Agency (IEA) also says carbon removal will be needed alongside deep emissions cuts to reach global net-zero emissions.

Brazil Has Become a Global Carbon Removal Leader

Brazil is well placed to help meet that demand. The country holds about 60% of the Amazon rainforest, the world’s largest tropical forest. It also has millions of hectares of degraded pasture that can be restored without clearing new land.

amazon deforestation trend
Source: Mongabay

The World Resources Institute (WRI) estimates Brazil has more than 50 million hectares of degraded pasture with strong restoration potential. Turning even part of this land back into native forest could remove large amounts of carbon while improving biodiversity and water quality.

That opportunity is attracting more investment. Companies like Mombak are showing that restoring forests can produce verified carbon removal while creating jobs, improving local ecosystems, and supporting rural communities.

A Milestone That Could Strengthen the Entire Carbon Market

Delivering carbon credits early does more than help one company. It helps strengthen confidence in the entire carbon removal market.

Corporate buyers want projects that can deliver real carbon removals on time. Early delivery reduces execution risk and shows that high-quality nature-based projects can perform as promised.

That could become even more important as demand grows.

High-quality carbon removal credits remain in short supply, while many large companies are increasing their purchases each year. Projects that consistently deliver verified removals may attract more buyers and stronger pricing over time.

For Mombak, the early issuance marks an important milestone. For buyers like Google, McKinsey, and other corporate partners, it provides verified carbon removals sooner than expected, helping strengthen their long-term climate strategies.

More broadly, the achievement shows that restoring the Amazon rainforest can produce high-quality carbon removal credits at commercial scale. As more projects deliver on time—or even early—nature-based carbon removal could become a larger and more trusted part of the global effort to reach net zero.

Shell Sells, TotalEnergies Buys: The Energy Giants’ Biggest Renewables Deal

Jennifer L
-
0
Shell Sells, TotalEnergies Buys: The Energy Giants’ Biggest Renewables Deal

Two of Europe’s biggest energy companies are taking different paths in the clean energy transition. TotalEnergies will buy Shell’s entire onshore renewable power portfolio in Europe. This deal adds hundreds of megawatts of operating capacity and a big pipeline of future projects. The financial terms were not disclosed.

The agreement includes about 500 megawatts (MW) of solar and wind projects that are already operating or under construction. It also includes a pipeline of more than 3.5 gigawatts (GW) of future renewable projects across several European countries.

The assets are located mainly in France, Spain, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Luxembourg, Portugal, the Netherlands, Romania, and the United Kingdom.

Once completed, the acquisition will strengthen TotalEnergies‘ position as one of Europe’s largest renewable power producers. The company stated that the portfolio supports its strategy, which aims to create an integrated electricity business. It combines renewable generation, battery storage, and power trading.

Stéphane Michel, President, Gas, Renewables & Power at TotalEnergies, said:

“In line with our strategy, these two transactions enable us to optimize our capital allocation in renewables while continuing to deploy our Integrated Power strategy. The acquisition of Shell’s onshore renewables assets in Europe strengthens our power generation positions in selected key deregulated markets across Europe and supports the implementation of our integrated strategy across the electricity value chain, complementing the flexible generation capacity of the gas-fired power plants of TTEP, our joint venture with EPH, particularly in Italy, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.”

Shell and TotalEnergies Are Taking Different Paths

The deal also highlights how Europe’s largest oil and gas companies are reshaping their clean energy strategies.

TotalEnergies continues to expand. The company has made renewable electricity one of its fastest-growing businesses. It is investing heavily in solar, wind, batteries, and flexible power generation while steadily reducing the share of oil in its energy mix.

Shell is taking a different approach. Rather than expanding its renewable generation portfolio, the company is focusing on businesses where it expects higher financial returns. These include liquefied natural gas (LNG), biofuels, electric vehicle charging, and power trading.

The oil major says the sale is part of its plan to simplify its renewable power business and improve capital discipline. The move follows several portfolio changes over the past two years.

In 2024, Shell sold its 1.2 GW onshore renewable business in India. Earlier this year, it also agreed to sell parts of its renewable portfolio in South Africa. Both companies remain committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, but they are choosing different routes to get there.

TotalEnergies Keeps Growing Its Clean Energy Portfolio

The acquisition builds on TotalEnergies’ rapid expansion in renewable electricity. The energy giant reported over 37.4 GW of installed renewable electricity capacity worldwide by the end of the first half of 2026. The massive deals within this period bring 681% growth in its renewable power agreements. 

Then, it will expand to over 100 terawatt-hours (TWh) of annual net electricity production by 2030. And it aims to reach 75 GW by 2050.

TotalEnergies Renewable Power Deals by Year (GWh)

The company also operates one of Europe’s largest renewable development pipelines. Before the Shell deal, TotalEnergies had nearly 10 GW of renewable capacity installed or being built in Europe. They also had another 27 GW in development.

Renewable electricity is becoming a bigger part of its business. During the first half of 2026, TotalEnergies generated 15% more electricity than a year earlier, driven by new solar and wind projects. Power production reached over 26 TWh, helping offset weaker oil and gas prices.

TotalEnergies electricity generation from renewables h12026
Source: TotalEnergies

The company says that combining renewable energy with battery storage and electricity trading helps provide more reliable power. This approach also boosts returns.

Europe’s Renewable Market Continues to Grow

The timing of the acquisition reflects broader market trends. Europe is rapidly expanding renewable electricity to improve energy security and meet climate goals.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) expects renewable energy to supply almost all global electricity demand growth through 2028. Solar remains the fastest-growing source, while wind continues to expand across Europe.

The European Commission’s REPowerEU plan aims to speed up renewable deployment and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. The EU has set a binding target. It aims for at least 42.5% of its final energy to come from renewable sources by 2030. The goal is to eventually reach 45%.

Europe renewable power capacity forecast 2030

For companies such as TotalEnergies, these policies create long-term demand for renewable electricity. For Shell, priorities have changed. Now, it focuses on businesses that can yield better returns. It also aims to support its overall energy transition strategy.

The different approaches show that Europe’s energy transition is no longer about whether companies invest in low-carbon energy. It is increasingly about how they choose to compete in a rapidly changing power market.

Why Renewable Power Is the New Energy Battleground

The deal comes as Europe’s renewable energy market keeps growing.

According to the IEA, renewable energy will provide almost all of the world’s growth in electricity demand through 2028. Solar is leading the expansion, while wind power continues to grow across Europe.

The European Union is also raising its ambitions. The updated Renewable Energy Directive sets a goal for the EU.

As more renewable power enters the grid, companies need more than just wind and solar farms. They also need battery storage, electricity trading, and flexible power systems that can balance supply and demand. That is why large energy companies are increasingly building integrated electricity businesses instead of owning only renewable assets.

Scale Is Becoming a Competitive Advantage

TotalEnergies believes bigger renewable portfolios will create long-term value. The company is combining renewable power generation with battery storage, gas-fired flexibility, and electricity trading. This allows it to sell electricity when demand and prices are highest while improving returns from its renewable assets.

Shell is following a different strategy.

The company is not investing in more renewable energy. Instead, it focuses on areas with better profits, like LNG, power trading, electric vehicle charging, and low-carbon fuels. The company says these businesses can deliver better returns while still supporting its net-zero ambition.

TotalEnergies Shell renewable power deal

Both companies want to grow in the energy transition. They simply disagree on where future value will come from.

A New Chapter in Europe’s Energy Transition

The sale of Shell’s European renewable portfolio is more than a business transaction, as it highlights how the energy transition is entering a new phase. Companies are no longer asking whether to invest in clean energy. They are deciding which low-carbon businesses will generate the strongest returns over the next decade.

For TotalEnergies, buying Shell’s renewable assets strengthens its position as one of Europe’s largest clean electricity producers. The acquisition also supports its strategy of becoming a major integrated power company while advancing its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

For Shell, the sale reflects a more selective investment strategy focused on higher-return energy businesses.

Together, the two companies show that there is no single path to net zero. Some companies are expanding renewable generation as quickly as possible. Others are concentrating on areas where they believe they have the greatest competitive advantage.

As Europe accelerates its shift to clean electricity, both strategies will help shape the next stage of the global energy transition.

123...290Page 2 of 290