Google Inks World’s Largest Hydropower Deal with Brookfield at $3B to Power AI Growth

Jennifer L
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Google Inks World’s Largest Hydropower Deal with Brookfield at $3B to Power AI Growth

Google signed a $3 billion, 20-year hydropower deal with Brookfield Asset Management. This agreement will provide up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of carbon-free electricity. It is the largest corporate hydropower deal in history.

The deal starts with 670 megawatts (MW) from Pennsylvania’s Holtwood and Safe Harbor dams. This move helps Google meet its growing energy demands, which come from fast data center and AI growth on the PJM grid.

Amanda Peterson Corio, Head of Data Center Energy, Google, stated:

“This collaboration with Brookfield is a significant step forward, ensuring clean energy supply in the PJM region where we operate. Hydropower is a proven, low-cost technology, offering dependable, homegrown, carbon-free electricity that creates jobs and builds a stronger grid for all.”

How Water Powers Google’s Clean Energy Strategy

While solar and wind are widely used in clean energy, they’re not always available when needed. Google’s AI-driven services require power 24/7, and hydropower offers a stable, renewable energy source that can meet this demand. It provides reliable electricity both day and night, which is important for powering energy-heavy data centers.

Hydropower also responds quickly to electricity needs, helping balance the grid during demand spikes. This is very important in places like the PJM Interconnection, where Google is growing its operations. The company’s agreement with Brookfield Renewable ensures up to 3 gigawatts of hydropower, which also supports Google’s clean energy goals in important U.S. areas.

Google clean energy emission reductions
Source: Google

Another reason for this shift is policy support. New U.S. laws have extended hydropower tax credits until 2036. Meanwhile, solar and wind incentives will begin to phase out in 2027. This gives Google more long-term certainty for its infrastructure plans.

Hydropower’s low emissions also support Google’s broader climate targets. The company plans to use only carbon-free energy by 2030. Clean baseload power, such as hydropower, is key to this goal.

Scaling AI Responsibly: From Deal to Data Centers

Google carbon-free energy map with data center operations

Google’s energy deal closely aligns with its $25 billion U.S. data center expansion across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. These new facilities will help Google’s expanding AI and cloud services. They need a lot of energy all the time.

Hydropower provides the carbon-free electricity needed to operate these centers without increasing emissions. AI workloads consume huge amounts of energy, and powering them with fossil fuels would worsen climate impacts. By pairing clean energy with digital growth, Google is working to scale AI responsibly.

Google data center energy use
Source: Google

This move reflects a broader industry shift. At a recent summit, Blackstone and CoreWeave announced they’re investing $90 billion. This funding will go toward AI and clean energy projects. Like Google, they see the need to tie digital growth with firm renewable power sources.

Google’s deal also sets a model for long-term clean energy planning. Instead of buying short-term carbon offsets, it’s investing in physical power assets with 20-year contracts. This ensures energy reliability, better emissions tracking, and real climate impact.

Environmental Upside and Responsible Dam Upgrades

Brookfield and Google will upgrade the Holtwood and Safe Harbor plants. This will boost turbine efficiency, improve fish passage, and ensure sustainable water flow. These relicensing efforts will depend on environmental impact assessments and local stakeholder engagement.

Brookfield Renewable Partners is one of the world’s largest platforms for renewable power and sustainable solutions. It has the following portfolio:

Brookfield portfolio
Source: Brookfield

Unused hydropower will be fed into PJM’s grid, supporting energy pricing and supply stability. The initiative creates local jobs during both construction and operation. This brings economic benefits to nearby communities.

The Broader Picture: Clean Power, AI Growth, and PPA Boom

Google’s clean energy deal with Brookfield reflects a couple of industry trends, such as the following:

Hydropower and Energy Mix Forecasts

Hydropower remains a key renewable base for utilities. The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects hydropower output to rise by 7.5% in 2025. However, it will still make up about 6% of total U.S. electricity, which is a small drop from long-term averages.

US hydropower generation 2025 EIA

The global hydropower market is set to grow. It’s expected to rise from $265 billion in 2025 to $381 billion by 2032. This growth represents a 5.3% annual rate. The main drivers are decarbonization and the need for grid flexibility.

Corporate PPA Market Expansion

Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are booming. In 2023, the PPA market was about $35 billion and would grow at a 37% annual rate until 2032. This could push the market to around $200 billion. The IT sector alone accounted for 30% of PPA capacity in 2024, nearly 3.8 GW of projects.

AI-Driven Grid Demand Surge

The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that electricity use in data centers will more than double. By 2030, it will reach about 945 TWh. This increase is due to AI workloads, which are expected to grow fourfold. In the U.S., data centers are expected to drive nearly 50% of electricity demand growth, and could account for 12% of U.S. electricity by 2028.

Data centre electricity consumption by region
Source: IEA

Analysts warn that AI-driven electricity demand could strain the grid. This is especially true without clean energy sources. For example, PJM capacity auction prices have soared by 800%, highlighting infrastructure challenges.

Smarter Grids: AI, PJM, and Smooth Integration

Google is working with PJM Interconnection, the largest grid operator in the U.S. They are using AI tools to speed up clean energy integration. These tools can reduce grid interconnection times—a major bottleneck for renewables.

Together with better forecasting and automation, this innovation can boost grid reliability, avoid cost spikes, and help speed up clean energy projects.

Despite these milestones, however, hurdles remain, such as:

  • Grid constraints: PJM has only added 5 GW while AI and data center demand is forecast to rise 32 GW by 2030, triggering concerns of limited capacity and regional rate hikes.
  • Regulatory delays in grid approvals and infrastructure planning may cause project bottlenecks .
  • Environmental due diligence during dam modernization must meet community and wildlife protection standards.

A Blueprint for Clean Tech Expansion

Google’s hydropower commitment shows that scaling AI infrastructure responsibly is feasible. By locking in inexpensive, baseload renewable power while modernizing existing hydro assets, Google positions itself as an ESG frontrunner.

In doing so, the company aligns with broader industry and grid forecasts. As AI energy demand grows and PPAs rise, Google’s approach stands out. They combine clean energy buying, dam upgrades, and smart grid integration. This model is a useful guide for expanding sustainable tech.

As data center electricity use nears 1,000 TWh by 2030 and hydropower output slowly grows, this deal exemplifies how bold energy procurement can simultaneously power innovation and protect the environment. Google’s strategy is more than a contract; it’s a roadmap for climate-aligned growth in the digital age.

Apple to Invest $500 Million in MP Materials for U.S.-Made Recycled Rare Earth Magnets

Saptakee S
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Apple to Invest $500 Million in MP Materials for U.S.-Made Recycled Rare Earth Magnets

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) announced a $500 million investment in MP Materials Corp. (NYSE: MP). This investment backs a long-term agreement where MP will supply Apple with rare earth magnets made entirely from recycled materials, all manufactured in the United States.

Under the agreement, MP will produce the magnets at its Fort Worth, Texas, facility—called Independence—using recycled feedstock processed at its Mountain Pass site in California. The recycled material will be collected from post-industrial waste and end-of-life magnets.

James Litinsky, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of MP Materials, said,

“We are proud to partner with Apple to launch MP’s recycling platform and scale up our magnetics business. This collaboration deepens our vertical integration, strengthens supply chain resilience, and reinforces America’s industrial capacity at a pivotal moment.”

US Rare Earths in 2024: Production and Imports

Rare earth magnets are key components in everyday electronics like iPhones, laptops, and smartwatches. They are also essential for electric vehicles, robotics, wind turbines, and energy systems.

rare earths

  • According to USGS, the US produced about 45,000 tons of rare earth oxide (REO) concentrates, worth $260 million in 2024.

Most of it came from bastnaesite mined at Mountain Pass, California. Monazite was either stockpiled or found in heavy mineral sands in the Southeast, while mixed rare-earth compounds were made in the West.

Notably, the US also imported rare-earth metals and compounds worth $170 million, a drop of 11% from 2023. The top use was for catalysts, followed by magnets in finished goods, ceramics, glass, alloys, and polishing. Thus, it becomes increasingly important to strengthen the domestic rare earth capacity and reduce imports.

MP Materials specializes in NdFeB (neodymium-iron-boron) permanent magnets, known as the most powerful and efficient magnets in the world. Without them, the U.S. could face major delays in its clean energy and electric vehicle goals.

An aerial view of MP Materials’ Independence facility in Fort Worth, Texas, illustrating the scale of operations at this critical manufacturing hub

MP materials rare earth
Source: MP Materials

MP Materials Expands U.S. Recycling to Power Apple Partnership

MP Materials is stepping up its role as a key player in America’s clean tech future. It sources rare earth elements from one of the world’s richest deposits in California.

  • Notably, it’s the only U.S. company that controls the entire rare earth magnet supply chain—from mining and refining to magnet manufacturing.

Recycling rare earth magnets instead of mining them will reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower production costs. Its Mountain Pass facility will process old magnets, manufacturing scrap, and electronic waste.

This strategy will boost rare earth output so it can start shipments in 2027 and eventually supply magnets for hundreds of millions of Apple devices.

For the past five years, both companies have worked together on advanced recycling technologies, and MP’s recycled materials have met Apple’s strict standards for product performance and design.

Fueling Sustainability: Apple’s Drive for 100% Recycled Materials

Apple is prioritizing sustainability across its product line. In 2024, over 80 percent of the rare earth elements used in Apple products came from certified recycled sources, up from 75 percent in 2023.

The company uses a detailed process, including Material Impact Profiles (MIPs), to evaluate the social, environmental, and supply risks of various raw materials. This helps Apple focus its efforts on materials where it can make the biggest difference.

Today, Apple is running sustainability projects for key materials including aluminum, cobalt, copper, gold, glass, lithium, rare earths (neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium), tin, tungsten, zinc, and others.

Apple’s long-term plan is to transition entirely to recycled and renewable materials. That shift won’t be quick, but the company is leading the way.

By the end of 2025, Apple plans to use 100 percent recycled cobalt in all batteries, 100 percent recycled tin and gold in all circuit boards, and 100 percent recycled rare earth magnets across all products, excluding items made for replacement or repair.

Apple rare earth magnet
Source: Apple
  • This effort supports Apple’s 2030 goal to cut Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 75% and offset the rest through high-quality carbon removal projects.

The company has already reduced emissions across its value chain by over 60% while growing revenue by more than 65% since 2015.

Apple (AAPL) Sees Marginal Rise Amid Broader Struggles in 2025

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) is having a rough start in 2025. Its stock is trading at $208.62, showing a 16.49% drop so far this year. In comparison, the S&P 500 has gone up 6.58%, which means Apple is falling behind the overall market.

Moreover, the company is facing pressure from several challenges, including the impact of former President Trump’s trade war, a U.S. Department of Justice antitrust investigation, and concerns that Apple is falling behind in artificial intelligence (AI).

Although Apple’s stock rose slightly after the MP Materials deal was announced, bigger issues are still affecting investor confidence. Despite these downturns, this partnership strengthens Apple’s brand as a leader in eco-conscious product design.

apple stock AAPL
Source: Yahoo Finance

MP Materials (MP) Stock Jumps 20% After Apple Partnership

While Apple struggled, MP Materials Corp. (NYSE: MP) saw its stock soar. After announcing its new deal with Apple, MP shares went up 20% on Tuesday, according to Yahoo Finance.

mp materials MP stock
Source: Yahoo Finance

The market reacted strongly to the news. Investors view this partnership as a significant win for MP, particularly as it expands its role in the U.S. rare earth supply chain. The deal not only boosts MP’s growth plans but also supports clean energy and tech manufacturing in the United States.

With a $500 million investment from Apple and support from the U.S. Department of Defense, MP Materials is now seen as a key player in the shift to sustainable, domestic production of critical materials. Overall, it represents a significant step toward America’s sustainable innovation and supply chain independence.

NIO’s (Stock) Race to Net Zero with EV Battery Swaps That Power Down Emissions

Jennifer L
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NIO’s (Stock) Race to Net Zero with EV Battery Swaps That Power Down Emissions

NIO, a top Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker, keeps pushing boundaries with its advanced battery swap technology and bold plans for global expansion. The EV maker recently launched its first battery swap station in France, a move that marks a key milestone in its European expansion strategy.

The facility sits in Chalon-sur-Saône between Paris and Lyon. This offers a new option for EV charging. It also reflects NIO’s commitment to offering a more convenient and sustainable charging solution for drivers.

NIO’s Power Swap Stations let drivers exchange a dead battery for a fully charged one. This swap takes less than five minutes, so there’s no need to wait for batteries to charge. This method cuts downtime, eases charging worries, and allows for heavy daily use.

Thus, it’s great for taxis, ride-hailing services, and commercial fleets. As of July 2025, NIO has built over 3,400 Power Swap Stations globally, with the majority in China and a growing presence in Europe. The company continues its rapid international expansion and is targeting 1,000 stations outside China by the end of 2025.

NIO’s Role in Decarbonizing Transportation

NIO’s battery swap technology supports grid balancing and energy storage, key tools for a low-carbon economy. The swap stations act as virtual power plants (VPPs), storing energy and helping distribute it more efficiently during peak and off-peak hours. This reduces strain on energy grids and integrates renewable sources like wind and solar more smoothly.

This system plays a significant role in reducing lifecycle emissions. NIO’s centralized battery charging is different from traditional EV charging.

With traditional charging, carbon intensity changes based on the power grid. But NIO allows users to schedule charging when grid emissions are low, which enables:

  • battery health optimization,
  • extends battery life, and
  • reduces electronic waste. 

Watch below how its power swap stations work:

The company had completed 30 million swaps in late 2023, cutting around 891,693 metric tons of CO₂. That’s about 28 kilograms of CO₂ saved per swap—the same as avoiding 80 kilometers of driving in a gas-powered car or matching the annual carbon absorption of 3 mature trees. These savings show how NIO’s swap model boosts EV convenience and contributes to meaningful emissions reductions.

On the Road to Net Zero: NIO’s Emission Targets and Progress

NIO has set a clear goal to reach carbon neutrality across its operations and entire supply chain by 2045, with interim steps to curb emissions along the way. In its 2024 ESG report, NIO shared solid progress toward this goal. 

NIO’s Lifecycle Decarbonization Roadmap

For example, the manufacturing facilities used 56.6% renewable electricity. This is a big jump from 2023 levels, which accounted for about 97,000 MWh of clean power. This increase came from a 74.5% rise in renewable use compared to last year.

The Chinese EV maker reported the following greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the year 2024.

NIO ghg emissions 2024
Source: NIO 2024 ESG Report

The company showed great results in material recovery and recyclability, too. It achieved a 98.8% recoverability rate and a 91.4% recyclability rate for sold vehicles. These figures reflect NIO’s dedication to a circular economy, designing products for reuse and minimizing waste.

Moreover, NIO joined the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and implemented an internal carbon pricing (ICP) system. These moves show its commitment to tracking and managing emissions and align with global standards. 

In 2024, NIO took a more active role in global climate discussions. It participated in COP29 and hosted a forum titled “Green and Low‑Carbon Development of China’s Automobiles,” reinforcing its reputation as a thought leader in clean mobility.

As a member of the UN Global Compact since 2016, NIO aligns its values and business operations with UN sustainability goals, emphasizing corporate responsibility in climate action.

Moreover, NIO reported a 12% reduction in average manufacturing emissions per vehicle year-over-year, reflecting energy-saving improvements and greener factory operations. Its Factory Two (F2) was recognized as a “Super Automotive Factory” and a “2024 Green Factory” by provincial authorities. These achievements show NIO’s ability to hit measurable sustainability targets.

Together, these efforts show that NIO is not just making promises; it is delivering measurable results on the path to net-zero emissions. Its method combines renewable energy adoption, smart carbon management, material recycling, and active participation in global ESG platforms.

Three Brands, One Carbon-Cutting Strategy

NIO’s multi-brand approach allows it to reach a wide range of consumers while maximizing its carbon reduction impact. The flagship NIO brand offers premium electric vehicles equipped with smart energy systems and advanced autonomous driving features. In 2024, NIO launched the ONVO brand, targeting the mass market with more affordable EVs that directly compete with Tesla’s Model Y.

In 2025, the company launches Firefly. This compact EV line targets city drivers and competes with BMW’s Mini and Mercedes’ Smart cars. Prices will start at about $20,400. This full-spectrum strategy positions NIO to drive emissions reductions across luxury, mainstream, and budget-friendly segments.

Tapping into Carbon Credit Markets

The global carbon credit market will grow quickly. Estimates suggest its value could reach between $7 billion and $35 billion by 2030. By 2050, it may soar to $250 billion.

NIO is well-positioned to benefit from this trend. It has received TÜV Rheinland certifications for its greenhouse gas emissions data and product carbon footprint. This is a key step for companies that want to sell verified carbon credits.

Global Growth and Strategic Partnerships

NIO is accelerating its global presence with the following initiatives:

  • Battery swap station rollout in France, Norway, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden
  • 2024 partnership with Shell for EV infrastructure in China and Europe
  • Expansion plans into Hungary and Spain
  • EU incentives and rising demand for zero-emission vehicles
  • In-house battery production for cost savings and supply chain control
  • Partnerships with CATL and other battery suppliers
  • Support for the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model
    • EV purchase without battery ownership
    • Lower upfront costs, wider accessibility

The Road Ahead for NIO and Clean Transportation

As the global EV market continues to grow—expected to hit 20 million units in sales by 2025—NIO is positioning itself as a major player in decarbonized mobility. China, NIO’s home base, made up more than 60% of global EV production and sales in 2024. This gave NIO a big edge in size and know-how.

global long-term EV sales by market 2040

Battery swapping offers a scalable solution that complements traditional charging infrastructure. As EV adoption increases, demand for faster, more efficient energy solutions will rise. NIO’s integrated ecosystem of vehicles, battery swaps, and software gives it a unique edge in this space.

NIO is a great example for ESG investors and clean tech watchers. It shows how electrification and digital tech can cut carbon emissions, help achieve net-zero goals, and change the future of mobility.

AMD Stock Soars: Can ESG and Net-Zero Momentum Sustain the Rally?

Jennifer L
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AMD Stock Soars: Can ESG and Net-Zero Momentum Sustain the Rally?

Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ: AMD) has been in the spotlight lately. This is due to its record stock price and strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts, as well as its sustainability programs. The company’s strong financial growth is driven by the soaring demand for its AI and data center chips.

AMD’s focus on sustainability gives it a competitive edge, which may help the company thrive for years to come. Let’s dive into the chipmaker’s record-breaking achievements.

AMD Hits Record Highs on AI Momentum

AMD’s stock recently climbed significantly as shown in the chart. The excitement around its MI300 series GPUs and EPYC processors drives this surge. These products are made for artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC). These products are allowing AMD to compete aggressively with rival tech giant Nvidia.

AMD stock
Source: TradingView

Analysts are hopeful about AMD’s future, with HSBC upgrading its stock. They see the MI350 chip as a strong competitor to Nvidia. As such, AMD’s forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is about 21x. This is attractive, especially when you compare it to Nvidia’s P/E of around 38x.

The broader AI market is also booming. According to International Data Corporation (IDC), AI server spending is expected to grow by over 25% annually through 2027. This growth is likely to increase demand for AMD’s AI-specific chips.

Notably, AMD now powers 157 of the world’s top Green500 supercomputers, platforms that combine raw computing power with energy efficiency. This highlights AMD’s dual focus on performance and sustainability.

AMD’s recent financial reports reflect this momentum. In the first quarter of 2025, AMD posted double-digit revenue growth and improved gross margins. Strong sales in data centers and AI platforms boosted earnings. This sparked greater confidence among both analysts and investors.

AMD first qtr financial

AMD’s Blueprint for Responsible, Greener Growth

Beyond its technology leadership, AMD puts great emphasis on sustainability and responsible governance. The company was named Newsweek’s #1 Greenest Company in 2024. It also earned top scores for environmental transparency from various ESG rating agencies.

AMD’s governance and ESG framework includes:

  • Conducting thorough materiality assessments in partnership with BSR (Business for Social Responsibility).
  • Aligning reporting and disclosures with industry-leading frameworks like the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project).
  • Committing to achieving full net-zero emissions throughout its entire value chain by 2050, with interim targets already set.

This strong ESG framework builds investor trust. It also aligns AMD with new global policies. These include Europe’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) guidelines. Both are shaping future sustainability reporting needs.

From Silicon to Sustainability: AMD’s Net Zero Game Plan

AMD’s environmental goals focus heavily on reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It has pledged to cut absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions (direct emissions and those from purchased electricity) by 50% by 2030, compared to 2020 levels.

By 2023, AMD achieved a 24.5% reduction, lowering emissions to 46,605 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent from a baseline of 61,754 in 2020. Third-party assurance standards (ISAE 3000) have verified this data, adding credibility to its progress.

AMD ghg emissions 24
Source: AMD Report

AMD completed the acquisition of Xilinx in 2022. This increased its emissions baseline because of larger operations. However, AMD has kept making progress despite this challenge. This shows the company’s ability to manage decarbonization efforts even while growing.

AMD boosted its renewable energy use. It jumped from 18% in 2020 to around 40% by 2023. This means over 83 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean power each year. It more than doubles renewable electricity use in just three years. This cuts down the environmental impact of its operations. It also supports the sustainability goals of its data center customers.

Importantly, AMD’s climate ambitions extend beyond its own operations to its supply chain. The company asks all its manufacturing suppliers to set public GHG reduction targets by 2025. So far, approximately 84% of these suppliers have already published emissions targets, and 71% source at least some renewable energy.

AMD sustainability goals
Source: AMD

AMD aims for full alignment by 2025, with 80% of suppliers sourcing renewable energy by that time. Also, 83% of supplier manufacturing sites have been audited by the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA). This checks for responsible labor and environmental standards.

This approach boosts AMD’s role across the value chain. It starts from chip making and goes to finished electronics. This helps the whole industry make progress on climate change.

ESG Risk Management and Regulatory Alignment

AMD also incorporates climate risk into its long-term strategic planning. It is part of the Semiconductor Climate Consortium. This group creates climate transition strategies by looking at physical and market risk scenarios.

By doing this, AMD prepares for future regulatory demands, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Climate Rule and the EU’s CSRD.

Energy Efficiency: The 30× by 2025 Goal

In addition to emissions reductions, AMD pursues ambitious energy efficiency targets. The company set a goal to improve the energy efficiency of its AI and HPC chips by 30 times by 2025 compared to 2020 levels. As of late 2023, AMD recorded a 13.5× efficiency gain using its MI300A APU chip.

AMD Energy Efficiency The 30× by 2025 Goal
Source: AMD report

If used worldwide, this efficiency could save data centers billions of kilowatt-hours in 2025. This would cut carbon emissions and lower operational costs. AMD’s modular chiplet-based design, along with AI chips, cuts power use. This also lowers the environmental impact during manufacturing.

AMD-powered supercomputers, like the Frontier system at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, are among the most energy-efficient high-performance computers worldwide. These gains give AMD a real advantage in securing contracts with big companies and government agencies that want sustainable, high-performance computing.

ESG as a Competitive Advantage, Yet Risks & Challenges Remain

AMD’s sustainability credentials provide several key competitive benefits, in:

  • Cost Savings and Emissions Mitigation: Energy-efficient products help customers reduce electricity costs and meet their own ESG goals.
  • Winning Contracts: Governments and enterprises are increasingly selecting AMD’s technology, appreciating both its performance and sustainability profile.
  • Attracting Investors: More ESG-conscious investors want companies that reduce emissions and report clearly. AMD’s ESG achievements improve its appeal to these capital sources.

Despite its momentum, AMD must navigate several ongoing challenges:

  • Scope 3 Emissions: AMD tracks direct emissions effectively. However, fully capturing and reducing Scope 3 emissions—those from the whole value chain, like product use and end-of-life—is still just starting. Addressing this is critical as Scope 3 typically represents the largest portion of a tech company’s carbon footprint.
  • Intense Competition: Rivals such as Nvidia, Intel, and a host of AI chip startups compete fiercely for market share.
  • Supply Chain Complexity: As AMD expands globally, it will be harder to ensure suppliers meet emissions targets and ESG standards.

When Technology Meets Sustainability: The AMD ESG Equation

AMD’s recent stock rally is not merely a product of hype around AI demand. It reflects a robust technology leadership combined with serious, measurable ESG progress. AMD shows that economic growth can go hand in hand with environmental responsibility. It achieves this through strong energy efficiency goals, confirmed emissions cuts, and climate-friendly actions in its supply chain.

Thus, AMD stands out for investors interested in tech innovation and climate action. Its strong AI chip performance, increasing use of renewable energy, and strict sustainability governance make it an appealing option.

India Achieves 50% Non-Fossil Fuel Power Milestone: Solar Shines Bright

Saptakee S
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India Achieves 50% Non-Fossil Fuel Power Milestone: Solar Shines Bright

India’s energy transition reached a critical milestone in June 2025. The Government of India, Press Information Bureau, noted that the country’s total installed power generation capacity hit 476 GW, with non-fossil fuel sources contributing nearly 49 percent. This marks a substantial shift from a coal-dominated past, driven by rapid solar growth, expanding wind and hydro capacity, and early strides in hydrogen and nuclear energy.

India’s Rising Electricity Demand Fuels the Shift

Electricity demand in India has surged in recent years, fueled by growing commercial and residential spaces, increased ownership of air conditioners and appliances, and rising industrial consumption. Over the past five years, India recorded the third-largest growth in power generation capacity globally, after China and the United States.

Although generation has increased across all sources, investment in renewables—especially solar PV—has taken the lead. According to the IEA, 83 percent of India’s power sector investment in 2024 went to clean energy.

India also became the world’s largest recipient of development finance for clean power, receiving around USD 2.4 billion for project-level interventions. As a result, the share of non-fossil power generation capacity climbed to 44 percent in 2024, closing in on India’s target of 50 percent by 2030.

INDIA ELECTRICITY
Source: CEA and NPP (https://iced.niti.gov.in/energy/electricity/generation)

Solar Power Becomes the Cornerstone of Clean Energy

Solar energy continues to dominate India’s renewable push. Installed solar capacity soared to 110.9 GW in June 2025, up from just 2.82 GW in March 2014—a nearly 39-fold increase. In FY 2024–25 alone, 23.83 GW of solar was added, showcasing robust government support and investor confidence.

This growth aligns with a major expansion in domestic solar manufacturing. Module production capacity jumped from 2.3 GW to 88 GW, and cell production rose from 1.2 GW to 25 GW. These developments have strengthened India’s self-reliance in the solar supply chain.

Flagship programs such as PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, rooftop solar subsidies, and the PM-KUSUM scheme have accelerated adoption, especially in rural and residential areas, empowering households and farmers to embrace solar energy.

india solar power
Source: CEA and NPP (https://iced.niti.gov.in/energy/electricity/generation)

Coal Still Dominates India’s Power Mix, but Its Grip is Slipping

Despite clean energy gains, coal remains India’s largest single source, with an installed capacity of 219 GW. When combined with gas (20 GW) and diesel (0.589 GW), thermal power contributes 240 GW, slightly over 50 percent of the country’s total.

Coal continues to play a key role in meeting base load demand, particularly for industrial use. However, its dominance is gradually eroding as solar, wind, and other renewable options scale up. Additionally, policy pressure to decarbonize and falling costs of renewables are accelerating this shift.

Wind, Hydro, and Biomass Add Balance to the Grid

India’s renewable mix is becoming increasingly diverse. Wind power reached 51.3 GW, with 4.15 GW added in the last fiscal year. Hydropower, including both large and small projects, stood at 48 GW, up from 35.8 GW in 2014. These sources provide critical grid flexibility and peak load management.

Biomass and biogas power have also strengthened, contributing 11.6 GW. Over five million small biogas plants and hundreds of medium-scale systems are now operational. In a major leap, India’s production of compressed biogas has reached 1,211 tonnes per day across 150 plants—up from just 8 tonnes per day in 2014.

Green Hydrogen finds its Place in the Energy Mix

India’s green hydrogen ambitions are taking shape under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. While still in its early stages, pilot projects using electrolysis powered by solar and wind have begun.

These initiatives support the government’s target of producing 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, backed by 125 GW of renewable capacity.

Though current hydrogen capacity remains in the pilot phase, it is expected to play a transformative role in decarbonizing heavy industries, refining, and long-duration storage in the coming decade.

Nuclear power: Needs a Ramp-Up

Nuclear energy continues to provide a steady source of low-emission electricity, with 8.8 GW of capacity as of June 2025. While its share remains modest, nuclear offers reliable baseload power and supports the country’s broader clean energy ambitions.

The Government of India’s Department of Atomic Energy has announced that the RAPS-7 reactor (700 MW) was successfully connected to the grid on March 17, 2025, increasing the total number of operational nuclear reactors in the country to 25, with a combined capacity of 8,880 MW.

An additional 13,600 MW of nuclear power capacity is currently under implementation. Once these projects are progressively completed, India’s total nuclear capacity is expected to reach 22,480 MW by 2031–32.

The private sector is already playing a significant role in the nuclear ecosystem, particularly in the manufacturing, supply, and execution of nuclear power projects. Moreover, private investment in nuclear power generation has now been enabled within the current legal framework to support the establishment of Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs).

India’s Investment Landscape and Infrastructure Bottlenecks

India has introduced several steps to attract more investment in clean energy. These include significant support for solar panel manufacturing, battery production, and building better electricity grids. The IEA further highlighted that in 2023, foreign direct investment (FDI) in the power sector reached USD 5 billion. It’s almost double the amount seen before COVID-19. Under the current policy, India allows 100 percent FDI in power generation and transmission, except in nuclear energy.

However, foreign portfolio investment (money from global investors in stocks and bonds) has dropped over the last two years. One major challenge is the high cost of financing. In India, borrowing costs for renewable energy projects are 80 percent higher than in developed countries, which makes clean energy projects more expensive and less profitable.

INDIA ENERGY INVESTMENT
Source: IEA

Another serious issue is off-taker risk—this means that electricity distribution companies (discoms) often fail to pay power generators on time. As of March 2025, discoms owed more than USD 9 billion in unpaid bills. Their total losses had reached USD 75 billion by 2023.

In addition, poor transmission infrastructure is holding back progress. India has about 60 GW of renewable power capacity that is ready but cannot be used fully because the electricity cannot be moved where it is needed. This shows the urgent need to improve the power grid and connect new projects to the system faster.

The Future is Clean Energy

India’s energy system is changing quickly. Today, clean energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, biomass, nuclear, and hydrogen make up almost half of the country’s power capacity, nearly equal to fossil fuels. This shows that India is on track toward a cleaner, low-carbon future.

  • The country’s goal is to have 500 GW of non-fossil power capacity by 2030.

The progress seen by June 2025 proves that this goal is within reach. But to keep the momentum going, India must solve key problems like discom debt, grid delays, and high project costs. With the right actions, India can fully unlock the potential of clean, affordable, and reliable energy.

From NASA to the US Navy, This Could Power ‘Infinite’ Energy

Jennifer L
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0
From NASA to the US Navy, This Could Power ‘Infinite’ Energy

Disseminated on behalf of Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc.

Truly “infinite” clean energy might be a long way off. But one thing is certain: We’re getting closer, and Infinity Fuel is a huge part of it.

Their patented air-independent fuel cell has shown that it can provide power by turning hydrogen and oxygen into water and back again in an ongoing loop. 

The technology is hitting major milestones with NASA and other partners lately. And it’s happening right as investors have a new opportunity to join Infinity in their transition from R&D to commercial deals.

Here’s why this should be on every investor’s radar. 

Infinity Could Power a NASA Moon Mission

For decades, Infinity Fuel has been developing air-independent energy technology with NASA, the US Navy, and commercial space partners. The technology is meant to last for long periods in the most extreme conditions, like deep underwater or in space. 

Past and current members of their team have been involved in every space flight fuel cell program since NASA’s Project Gemini in the 1960s. Infinity has even sent their fuel cells aboard two Blue Origin rocket launches.

With $50M+ in contracts (past and current) to develop these systems, they’re now making strides that could bring years of successful testing to the real world.

Most recently, Infinity proved its fuel cell could survive a cold lunar night. This involved completing 2,600 hours of testing with NASA on two lunar regenerative fuel cell stacks. 

But a moon mission is just one of the many ways this technology is impacting our world.

How Infinity Enables Longer US Navy Journeys

What makes Infinity’s fuel cells capable of lasting in deep space or underwater?

At the core of this innovation is a patented, air-independent fuel cell paired with a high-pressure electrolyzer system. It’s designed to store and regenerate power using hydrogen and oxygen, without requiring any external air, compressors, or noisy support systems.

This allows Infinity’s systems to operate silently and efficiently in places other power sources can’t—like submerged uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) for up to 70 days, or in space during 14-day lunar nights at -280°F.

That’s what Infinity is doing for the US Navy.

But they also recently signed a preliminary partnership agreement with a leading international developer of UUVs, opening the door to a projected $11B UUV market.

The US Air Force, Infinity’s commercial space partners, and other entities are poised to benefit from this technology as well.

These are all signs that Infinity Fuel’s future is bright, and we haven’t even discussed their latest progress towards commercialization yet.

Infinity’s Commercial Partnership wth Plug Power 

One of Infinity’s most exciting recent business developments was its new supplier and partner agreement with Plug Power (Nasdaq: PLUG).

Plug is a global leader in hydrogen electrolyzer tech. It gives Infinity a much bigger potential doorway to commercial markets like hydrogen-powered microgrids, subsea refueling, and clean energy for off-grid islands. 

This is a huge step towards commercializing Infinity’s tech, and a big reason why they have opened a limited-time investment opportunity.

Why Investors Are Watching Infinity Fuel

With government validation, growing commercial interest, and a reserved Nasdaq ticker (IFCH), Infinity is now raising capital to scale their technology into broader markets.

The shift toward long-duration power and decentralized hydrogen infrastructure is accelerating. And Infinity Fuel represents one of the most compelling energy opportunities in the sector.

Learn more about the company behind some of the world’s most advanced energy systems and how you can become an early shareholder.

This is a paid advertisement for Infinity Fuel Cell and Hydrogen, Inc. Reg CF offering. Please read the offering circular at https://invest.infinityfuel.com/.

Disclosure: Owners, members, directors, and employees of carboncredits.com have/may have stock or option positions in any of the companies mentioned: None.

Carboncredits.com receives compensation for this publication and has a business relationship with any company whose stock(s) is/are mentioned in this article.

Additional disclosure: This communication serves the sole purpose of adding value to the research process and is for information only. Please do your own due diligence. Every investment in securities mentioned in publications of carboncredits.com involves risks that could lead to a total loss of the invested capital.

Please read our Full RISKS and DISCLOSURE here.

NVIDIA (NVDA Stock) Hits $4 Trillion, Igniting ESG Investment Momentum Across the Semiconductor Sector

Saptakee S
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0
NVIDIA (NVDA Stock) Hits $4 Trillion, Igniting ESG Investment Momentum Across the Semiconductor Sector

Nvidia’s (NASDAQ: NVDA) historic climb to a $4 trillion valuation has sent shockwaves through both the tech world and ESG investment strategies. With a staggering 7.3% weight in the S&P 500, Nvidia now holds an outsized influence in global indices, meaning its ESG performance directly affects the sustainability ratings of thousands of funds and ETFs.

ESG investors are closely looking at Nvidia’s emissions data, renewable energy targets, and supply chain practices. Its stock price movements and sustainability disclosures now have material portfolio-level implications that are reshaping how risk and opportunity are assessed in ESG-aligned investments.

Will NVIDIA’s Skyrocketing Market Cap Be a Game-Changer for ESG?

The global Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure market is experiencing explosive growth, with spending projected to exceed $200 billion by 2028, according to the latest IDC Worldwide Semiannual AI Infrastructure Tracker.

In the first half of 2024, organizations ramped up their investments in compute and storage hardware for AI applications, pushing spending to $47.4 billion. It’s a whopping 97% increase compared to the same period last year.

AI market cap
Source: International Data Corporation
Moving on, NVIDIA dominates the AI chip market with its H100 and A100 GPUs, which are essential for training large language models. Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) had already revealed its plans to integrate the NVIDIA Blackwell platform with Azure AI services infrastructure.

Other major partnerships add fuel to the fire:

  • Oracle is integrating Nvidia’s AI chips into its cloud infrastructure.
  • The upcoming Blackwell chip, slated for 2025, is expected to deliver 10x energy efficiency improvements.

Q2 Revenue Outlook Stays Strong

For Q2 of fiscal 2026, NVIDIA predicts revenue of $45 billion, despite the ongoing U.S. export restrictions to China. The company is moving forward with strategic plans, including expanding U.S. manufacturing and forming new deals in the Middle East.

As the AI chip market’s momentum grows, Nvidia’s leadership looks unshakable. This dominance, however, brings with it new ESG responsibilities.

Let’s analyze it below:

NVIDIA: Setting a New Benchmark for Tech Sustainability

Nvidia is setting standards in sustainability. As one of the world’s most valuable companies, Nvidia’s ESG strategy now serves as a model for the broader semiconductor industry. With data centers under increasing scrutiny for their emissions and energy use, its focus on renewable electricity and efficient chip design is being closely watched.

The company achieved 100% renewable electricity usage in FY25 for all offices and data centers under its operational control. This milestone was reached through a combination of on-site solar, utility renewable electricity tariffs, energy attribute certificates, and long-term power purchase agreements.

Real Progress on Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions

Nvidia’s climate goals go beyond its operations. Its latest sustainability report showed that the company is making strong progress on all three scopes of emissions:

  • Scope 1 & 2: Nvidia has committed to reducing absolute emissions by 50% by FY30 from a FY23 base year.
  • Scope 3: Already engaged with suppliers accounting for over 80% of its Scope 3 Category 1 GHG emissions, Nvidia now aims to reduce emissions intensity by 75% per PFLOP (a unit of computational power) by FY30.

Notably, Nvidia’s Scope 3 emissions rose from 3.6 million CO₂e in FY24 to 6.9 million CO₂e in FY25, due to increased chip demand. However, its focus on emissions per unit of computation helps offset the overall growth in absolute emissions.

These goals have been validated by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aligning Nvidia with a 1.5°C climate pathway.

NVIDIA
Source: NVIDIA

Growing Pressure from ESG Investors and Stakeholders

Nvidia’s central role in major indices and AI infrastructure is bringing it under growing scrutiny from ESG investors and regulators. Shareholders are now demanding:

  • Greater transparency on Scope 3 emissions
  • Responsible water and energy use
  • Ethical sourcing and labor practices in the supply chain

As a fabless company that outsources its manufacturing, Nvidia wields increasing influence over its suppliers. The company is now requiring foundries and vendors to adopt cleaner energy and reduce waste, raising the bar for environmental responsibility across the semiconductor industry.

Sustainability Is Driving Product Innovation

The company would continue encouraging innovation in green technology. As demand surges for energy-efficient chips, the company is helping shift the focus from raw performance to performance plus sustainability.

This shift includes:

  • Designing GPUs using more recycled materials
  • Exploring product circularity and repairability
  • Promoting “as-a-service” models that lower carbon impact across the product lifecycle

Additionally, NVIDIA chips are powering applications that directly support climate action, from energy modeling and emissions tracking to smart grid optimization.

Pushing the Semiconductor Sector Toward Climate Solutions

The semiconductor sector has long faced criticism for its environmental footprint. Now, companies like Nvidia are reframing the narrative by showing how advanced chips can enable sustainability across industries.

By powering high-efficiency data centers and low-energy AI workloads, the chip giant is making the tech sector more climate-aligned.

Also, data centers using Nvidia’s architecture are being designed to:

  • Minimize energy waste
  • Reduce cooling demands
  • Operate with higher computational efficiency

This positions Nvidia and the broader semiconductor sector as both contributors as well as solvers of the climate crisis.

NVDA Stock (NVDA): Riding High on AI Chips Demand

Nvidia stock (NVDA) has been one of the standout performers of 2025, trading near record highs at $164.92 per share. Its market cap surged past $4 trillion, delivering nearly 40% year-to-date gains—a reflection of:

  • Unmatched demand for AI chips
  • Blockbuster earnings results
  • Strategic partnerships with Big Tech

Races Ahead the Big Techs and Industry Titans

Statista also reported that because of its AI boom, its stock has jumped over 1,000% in just 2.5 years.

To grasp the scale quickly, NVIDIA is worth more than Apple and Microsoft. It tops Alphabet and Meta combined.

NVIDIA
Source: Statista

Despite regulatory risks and competition from AMD (NASDAQ: AMD) and Intel (NASDAQ: INTC), Nvidia’s dominance in AI chips and commitment to sustainable growth continue to win over investors.

nvidia NVDA STOCK
Source: Yahoo Finance

Its meteoric rise and sustainability leadership are redefining what it means to be an ESG-aligned tech giant. For ESG investors, NVDA is more than just a growth stock. It’s rather a climate-impact stock, with deep implications for fund strategies and sustainability benchmarks.

As Nvidia scales new heights in AI and semiconductors, its environmental and social choices will shape its future and the entire tech industry.

Formation Metals (FOMO Stock) Powers Up: Gold, Nickel, and More For a Clean Energy Future

Jennifer L
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0
Formation Metals (FOMO Stock) Powers Up: Gold, Nickel, and More For a Clean Energy Future

Disseminated on behalf of Formation Metals Inc.

Formation Metals Inc. (CSE:FOMO, OTCPK:FOMTF, FSE:VF1) is a Canadian exploration company focused on supplying minerals essential to modern technology and clean energy. While much attention has been given to its gold assets, the company is also advancing exploration for copper, zinc, nickel, and titanium. This multi-metal approach supports North America’s growing need for critical minerals and positions the company for long-term growth as demand continues to rise.

Mining More Than Gold: Why FOMO’s Metals Mix Matters

Critical minerals are vital to industries such as electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, electronics, and national defense. Gold is used in electronics and valued as a store of wealth. Copper and zinc are essential for wiring, batteries, and large infrastructure projects. 

Nickel is a key ingredient in EV batteries, and demand for it could nearly double by 2030. From 2017 to 2022, the percentage of nickel used in batteries rose from 6% to 16%. Titanium, known for its strength and lightweight, plays an important role in aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

nickel demand from EV batteries 2022 and 2030

Governments in Canada and the United States have identified these minerals as strategic resources. With growing pressure to build secure, local supply chains for clean energy, both countries are actively supporting domestic exploration and development of critical minerals. 

Canada, for instance, is the fourth-largest global producer of nickel and fifth in titanium. In 2024, the global nickel market was valued at around $37 billion and is expected to grow to $73 billion by 2032.

Notably, Canada faces a growing challenge to capture its share of a booming $65 billion critical minerals market. A new report warns that Canada risks losing up to $100 billion in investment by 2030 without faster permitting and better coordination. 

Canada critical mineral reserves vs production
Source: CCI Report

This matters to Formation Metals (FOMO), as its Quebec and Ontario projects—gold, nickel, copper, zinc, and titanium—align directly with national priorities. With Canada targeting 60% of global potash and 14% of nickel supply, FOMO’s focus on domestic, multi-metal exploration positions it to benefit from policy improvements and rising clean-tech demand.

Exploring a Diversified Portfolio Across Canada

Formation Metals’ flagship asset is the N2 Gold Project, located in Québec’s Abitibi Greenstone Belt—one of the world’s most productive gold regions. The project spans 87 claims covering approximately 4,400 hectares and is accessible by road year-round. It holds a historical gold resource of about 870,000 ounces, with large parts of the property still underexplored. 

FOMO Abitibi Greenstone Belt
Source: FOMO

Recent reviews of historic drill core samples have revealed copper and zinc mineralization, suggesting the project’s value could extend beyond gold. This is important as demand for base metals like copper continues to rise, driven by growth in the EV sector and renewable infrastructure.

In addition to the N2 project, Formation Metals owns the Nicobat Project in Ontario, which is focused on nickel, copper, and cobalt—metals that are essential for batteries and clean energy systems. The company is also advancing an early-stage titanium project in Québec, aimed at serving aerospace, defense, and high-tech industries. 

By exploring a range of metals, Formation Metals spreads risk and creates multiple pathways to market success. This strategy enables the company to benefit even when the price of one commodity fluctuates.

Strong Jurisdictions and Responsible Development

All of Formation Metals’ assets are in Canada. The country is known for its political stability, clear mining rules, and skilled workers. Québec and Ontario are top mining regions. They provide reliable infrastructure and clear permitting processes. These strengths help reduce project risk and improve the efficiency of development.

FOMO also prioritizes responsible exploration. The company works with local governments, municipalities, and Indigenous communities. This helps ensure their projects respect local interests and meet environmental standards. This commitment supports long-term success and reflects the expectations of today’s investors and regulators.

Backed for Big Exploration in 2025

As of mid-2025, Formation Metals maintains a strong financial position, with about C$2.8 million in working capital. It recently completed a private placement to fund continued exploration. 

The company is fully financed for a 20,000-metre drill program at the N2 Gold Project. The first phase, covering 5,000 metres, is already underway. This drill program focuses on expanding known gold zones and testing new areas for copper and zinc mineralization. Systematic exploration like this is essential for uncovering a project’s full resource potential.

Riding the Wave of Clean Tech Demand

The company’s multi-metal strategy fits well with current global market trends. In 2025, gold prices reached record highs above $3,400 per ounce, driven by economic uncertainty and strong central bank demand. 

Gold Price - July 2025 upd

At the same time, copper demand is expected to grow by 30% by the mid-2020s. This rise is mainly driven by electric vehicle production and power grid upgrades. Nickel demand is also increasing as EV adoption grows and stainless steel production expands. The global market for nickel-based batteries alone could grow from USD 2.34 billion in 2025 to USD 2.82 billion by 2030.

Key Market Highlights:

  • Gold: Prices above $3,400/oz in 2025, driven by investor demand.
  • Copper: 30% demand growth forecast due to EVs and grid expansion.
  • Nickel: Market value to nearly double from USD 37B (2024) to USD 73B (2032).
  • Battery-grade nickel: Projected growth from USD 2.34B (2025) to USD 2.82B (2030).
  • Titanium and zinc: Strong demand in aerospace and infrastructure.

By targeting both precious and base metals, Formation Metals can benefit from several market forces at once. This diversified approach allows the company to create shareholder value even if one metal’s price declines. It also aligns with national efforts to secure domestic supplies of essential minerals.

Stability and Opportunity in Critical Minerals

Looking ahead, Formation Metals is positioned for growth as it continues to develop its projects. With a fully funded exploration program, strong financial footing, and projects located in top mining jurisdictions, the company is advancing assets that are critical to the future of clean energy and high-tech industries.

As global demand for critical minerals continues to grow, companies with diversified portfolios and responsible development strategies are likely to play a major role. Formation Metals’ focus on gold, copper, zinc, nickel, and titanium gives it broad exposure to several high-demand sectors.

Its multi-metal strategy and commitment to sustainable development offer both stability and upside potential for investors. Formation Metals is more than a gold explorer—it is helping to secure the resources needed for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

DISCLAIMER

New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com (“We” or “Us”) are not securities dealers or brokers, investment advisers or financial advisers, and you should not rely on the information herein as investment advice. Formation Metals Inc. made a one-time payment of $30,000 to provide marketing services for a term of 1 month. None of the owners, members, directors, or employees of New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com currently hold, or have any beneficial ownership in, any shares, stocks, or options in the companies mentioned. This article is informational only and is solely for use by prospective investors in determining whether to seek additional information. This does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. Examples that we provide of share price increases pertaining to a particular Issuer from one referenced date to another represent an arbitrarily chosen time period and are no indication whatsoever of future stock prices for that Issuer and are of no predictive value. Our stock profiles are intended to highlight certain companies for your further investigation; they are not stock recommendations or constitute an offer or sale of the referenced securities. The securities issued by the companies we profile should be considered high risk; if you do invest despite these warnings, you may lose your entire investment. Please do your own research before investing, including reading the companies’ SEDAR+ and SEC filings, press releases, and risk disclosures. It is our policy that information contained in this profile was provided by the company, extracted from SEDAR+ and SEC filings, company websites, and other publicly available sources. We believe the sources and information are accurate and reliable but we cannot guarantee it.

 CAUTIONARY STATEMENT AND FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “planned”, and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. These statements reflect current views regarding company performance, business goals, market conditions, and intellectual property development. The statements are based on current business and market expectations. However, they involve various risks and uncertainties, including potential delays, financial difficulties, operational challenges, and problems protecting intellectual property. Additional risks include possible regulatory approval delays, market disruptions, personnel issues, and competitive pressures.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the Company’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company’s continuous disclosure filings that are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Please read our Full RISKS and DISCLOSURE here.

Carboncredits.com receives compensation for this publication and has a business relationship with any company whose stock(s) is/are mentioned in this article.

Additional disclosure: This communication serves the sole purpose of adding value to the research process and is for information only. Please do your own due diligence. Every investment in securities mentioned in publications of carboncredits.com involves risks that could lead to a total loss of the invested capital.

Please read our Full RISKS and DISCLOSURE here.

China’s Envision Energy Launches World’s Largest Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Plant

Jennifer L
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0
China’s Envision Energy Launches World’s Largest Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Plant

China’s Envision Energy has launched the world’s largest green hydrogen and ammonia plant in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia. The plant sits in the Net-Zero Industrial Park. It runs completely on off-grid renewable sources like wind, solar, and battery storage. Artificial intelligence manages its operations.

The facility will start with a capacity of 320,000 tonnes of green ammonia each year. It plans to begin exports in the fourth quarter of 2025. This milestone is key for large-scale decarbonization. It puts China in a leading role in the global hydrogen economy.

Off-Grid & On Point: The World’s Smartest Hydrogen Plant

Envision’s Chifeng plant stands out as it operates fully off-grid, unlike many hydrogen facilities that still rely on fossil fuel-powered grids. This means it uses only renewable sources for electrolysis and ammonia synthesis. Thus, there are no carbon emissions from energy input. AI is key in managing these operations. It helps keep energy supply and demand balanced in real time.

Envision Energy net zero system
Source: Envision Energy

A particularly innovative feature is the use of surplus renewable energy to produce and store liquid nitrogen. This helps stabilize the system when the wind or sun is low, providing a steady, reliable energy supply.

With this system, AI, clean power, and storage tech help solve a big problem in green hydrogen production: the unpredictability of renewable energy.

From Mongolia to the World: Scaling Up Clean Ammonia

Envision’s ammonia output is already the largest in the world at 320,000 tonnes per year. But they plan to grow this capacity to 1.5 million tonnes each year by 2028. This nearly fivefold expansion signals the company’s long-term commitment to clean fuels and global exports.

In line with these goals, Envision has secured a major offtake agreement with Marubeni Corporation of Japan. The deal will supply green ammonia to sectors like fertilizers, chemicals, and shipping. These markets are looking for low-carbon options.

Ammonia is key as a hydrogen carrier. It makes storage and transport easier than pure hydrogen gas. This makes it especially attractive for industries such as global shipping and heavy manufacturing, which require scalable clean fuels.

By enabling ammonia production using green hydrogen from renewable energy, Envision’s plant supports both climate targets and energy security. China is pushing hard on clean energy. This project highlights the country’s growing role in global decarbonization.

The country ramped up its clean power output to a record-breaking 951 TWh in the first quarter of 2025, up 19% from Q1 2024. Renewables account for nearly 39% of its total electricity mix. Wind (307 TWh) and solar (254 TWh) led the surge, with solar generation growing by 48%, marking the first time these sources combined surpassed hydropower in China’s power mix.

The Global Hydrogen Market: Strong Growth Ahead

The launch of Envision’s hydrogen facility aligns with accelerating global trends in green hydrogen. Market analysts project explosive growth over the next decade:

Such projections are driven by falling costs and stronger policy support. Electrolyzer technologies are becoming more efficient and affordable, and renewable energy is now the cheapest source of new electricity in many regions. As such, green hydrogen is becoming more competitive with fossil-based hydrogen. This is especially true in tough-to-decarbonize sectors.

EU, US, East Asia total hydrogen demand across pathways
Source: Hydrogen Council

Large-scale projects in Saudi Arabia and Australia echo this momentum:

  • NEOM Green Hydrogen Project (Saudi Arabia): Expected to produce 600 tonnes of hydrogen per day and 1.2 million tonnes of ammonia annually.
  • Australian Renewable Energy Hub: Aims to harness 26 GW of solar and wind for hydrogen and ammonia production.

Meanwhile, both the European Union and the United States are rolling out major policies, including hydrogen subsidies and certification standards, to speed up adoption.

2030 hydrogen demand by geography
Source: Hydrogen Council

A Blueprint for Industrial Decarbonization

Envision’s achievement is more than a regional success story. It provides a clear plan for countries and industries. They can quickly boost clean hydrogen production by using renewable energy, AI, and smart design.

Also, this project highlights how green ammonia can act as both a climate mitigation tool and a clean energy carrier. It will play an increasingly important role in decarbonizing global trade, shipping, and chemical production. 

More notably, this initiative shows Envision Energy’s commitment to its pioneering net-zero efforts.

Envision Energy’s Net-Zero Progress and Emissions Strategy

Envision Energy aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. They also have goals for 2030. The company’s 2024 Net Zero Action Report states that the company became carbon neutral in 2022. It also plans to cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030, using 2020 as the baseline.

Envision Energy carbon neutrality

Envision is tackling Scope 3 emissions, which are the largest part of its carbon footprint. They are focusing on engaging suppliers and improving product design throughout their lifecycle. The company uses digital tools to cut emissions. Its AIoT operating system, EnOS™, helps optimize wind farms, batteries, and hydrogen systems.

Envision energy GHG emissions 2023
Source: Envision Energy

In 2023, Envision cut over 2 million metric tons of CO₂e through its clean energy technologies. These efforts follow SBTi guidance and the UN Race to Zero campaign. They also strengthen Envision’s role in climate-friendly innovation and decarbonization.

Envision is also key in speeding up global decarbonization. Its Net Zero Industrial Park in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, hosts the world’s largest green hydrogen and ammonia project. This industrial park integrates wind and solar energy, AI, and hydrogen technologies into a closed-loop, zero-emissions system.

It is a model for green manufacturing that aims to cut millions of tons of emissions each year. Also, it supports low-carbon supply chains in industries like steel, cement, and chemicals.

Looking Forward: China’s Role in a Hydrogen Future

Envision Energy’s hydrogen development also reflects China’s broader ambition to lead in the global energy transition. China, already a leader in solar panels, electric vehicles, and battery storage, is now investing heavily in green hydrogen. This move aims to strengthen its position in clean energy.

For global stakeholders, the Chifeng plant can be a wake-up call. As hydrogen markets take shape, those who lead in innovation and infrastructure may define the new clean economy.

Envision’s Chifeng facility marks a turning point in the global hydrogen race. With its blend of renewable power, smart systems, and scalable design, it sets a new benchmark for what’s possible in clean fuel production.

Carbon Capture and Storage to Grow 4x by 2030: Is It a Turning Point for Climate Action?

Jennifer L
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0
Carbon Capture and Storage to Grow 4x by 2030: Is It a Turning Point for Climate Action?

Carbon capture and storage, or CCS, is rapidly becoming one of the most important tools in the fight against climate change. With global emissions still rising and many industries struggling to cut carbon, CCS offers a way to remove and store CO₂ before it reaches the atmosphere. 

Recent reports show that global CCS capacity is expected to grow quickly this decade, marking a critical moment for the technology and its role in meeting climate goals. Let’s unravel why this technology is important in achieving net-zero pledges, which regions lead in development, and what challenges are slowing its adoption. 

What Is CCS and Why Does It Matter?

To understand carbon capture and storage, think of it as a climate safety net. It works by capturing carbon dioxide from two main sources. One is industrial sites, like factories and power plants. The other is directly from the air using advanced machines.

The captured CO₂ is compressed and stored underground in rock formations. This keeps it out of the atmosphere for hundreds or even thousands of years.

how carbon capture and storage works
Source: Image from Congressional Budget Office.Gov

This process is essential for two reasons:

  1. It helps lower emissions from hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as cement, steel, and chemicals.

  2. Using direct air capture (DAC) or biomass energy (BECCS) can remove carbon from the atmosphere. This is essential for reaching net-zero by mid-century.

Although CCS alone can’t solve the climate crisis, most scientists and climate experts agree that it must be part of the solution.

CCS Capacity Set to Quadruple by 2030 

In the past, CCS was mostly used in small pilot projects. But now, it’s entering a new phase. According to the latest data, global CCS capacity is projected to quadruple by 2030. This rapid growth is backed by an estimated $80 billion in investments expected to be deployed over just five years.

Today, there are around 50 million tonnes of CO₂ captured each year through CCS, according to the International Energy Agency. By 2030, that number is expected to rise to 430 million tonnes, with storage capacity potentially reaching 670 million tonnes. This shift is no longer theoretical—it’s happening now.

CCS operational and planned capacity IEA
Source: IEA

Several new projects have broken ground recently, including the world’s first cement plant with carbon capture and the largest DAC facility. These developments show that CCS is expanding both in size and across different sectors.

Who’s Leading the Charge? Global CCS Hotspots and Rising Stars

Right now, North America and Europe lead the world in CCS development. Together, they make up about 80% of all upcoming capture and storage capacity. However, other regions are beginning to catch up.

DNV_CCS_forecast_2050_Regional_carbon_capture_and_storage
Source: DNV

Countries like China, Brazil, and some in the Middle East are starting to invest heavily in CCS projects. For example, China alone is building projects that could capture over 15 million tonnes of CO₂ per year.

DNV_CCS_forecast_2050_CCS_uptake_in_selected_regions
Source: DNV

The types of industries using CCS are also growing. Originally tied closely to oil and gas, the technology is now being adopted by the shipping industry, natural gas power plants, and even waste-to-energy projects.

DNV_CCS_forecast_to_2050_CCS_by_sector_2030_and_2050
Source: DNV

Wood Mackenzie’s projection echoes this trend. The major research and consulting firm estimates that the U.S. carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) sector could present a $196 billion investment opportunity over the next decade. This is particularly true within the oil, gas, chemical, and power industries.

Wood Mackenzie
Source: Wood Mackenzie

This broader adoption shows that CCS is no longer a niche tool, but it’s becoming mainstream in global climate strategies.

Why Policy and Finance Are Fueling the CCS Surge

This growth wouldn’t be possible without strong policy support and financial incentives. In the United States, the 45Q tax credit provides up to $85 per tonne of CO₂ captured, and even more for DAC, which could reach as high as $180/t. These financial tools make CCS more affordable and appealing to companies. 

Other countries are following suit. The United Kingdom has pledged £22 billion toward CCS, and Canada is offering up to C$83 billion in clean-tech funding, including for carbon removal technologies. These programs give companies the confidence to invest in long-term infrastructure.

As more countries build policy frameworks and carbon markets expand, experts expect investment in CCS to continue rising over the next decade.

What’s Holding Carbon Capture Back

Despite the optimism, several challenges could hold CCS back. One of the biggest issues is the time it takes to move a project from planning to operation. Right now, it can take up to 6 years to complete a CCS facility. To meet the 2030 goals, that timeline needs to be cut in half.

Costs also remain a concern. While prices are coming down, technologies like direct air capture are still expensive—sometimes over $300 per tonne of CO₂ removed. Continued innovation and large-scale deployment are needed to make these solutions more affordable.

DNV_CCS_forecast_2050_transport_and_storage_costs_in_EUR_and_NAM

Another challenge is that CCS projects are unevenly distributed across the globe. Most are in wealthy nations, while developing countries are left behind. For CCS to support global climate goals, more investment and technology sharing must be directed to lower-income regions.

Finally, some critics worry that CCS could be used to delay the transition to renewable energy. If the technology is used to extend the life of fossil fuel plants, it might slow down broader efforts to move away from polluting energy sources.

How Much Can CCS Really Help?

Even with all planned projects, CCS will likely capture only about 6% of the emissions needed to reach net-zero by 2050. That means we need a lot more projects—possibly 100 times more by mid-century.

  • According to global climate scenarios, carbon capture must remove over 1 billion tonnes of CO₂ each year by 2030, and over 6 billion tonnes by 2050.

That’s a steep climb from today’s numbers. Still, if deployed alongside renewable energy, electrification, and energy efficiency, CCS can be a vital piece of the climate puzzle.

Its biggest strength lies in areas where other solutions don’t work well. For example, cement and steel production produce chemical emissions that can’t be avoided without carbon capture. Similarly, CCS makes hydrogen production cleaner and helps remove historical emissions through direct air capture.

If CCS scales as planned, it can:

  • Cut CO₂ emissions from industrial sites like cement and steel
  • Support zero-carbon hydrogen production
  • Enable net-negative emissions when combined with BECCS and DAC

A Powerful Ally in the Net Zero Race

Carbon capture and storage has reached a critical turning point. With capacity set to grow four times larger by 2030 and major projects already underway, CCS is becoming a reality. But if the world hopes to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, much more is needed.

CCS alone can’t fix the climate crisis, but it can help close the gap, especially in sectors where other solutions fall short. With smart policies, fast deployment, and global cooperation, carbon capture can become a powerful ally in the race to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

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