ExxonMobil’s $20B Low-Carbon Bet in 2030 Plan: Big Emissions Cuts, Bigger Oil Production

Jennifer L
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0
ExxonMobil’s $20B Low-Carbon Bet in 2030 Plan: Big Emissions Cuts, Bigger Oil Production

ExxonMobil published its updated 2030 Corporate Plan, which keeps the company’s “dual challenge” approach. The oil giant says it will supply reliable energy while cutting emissions. The update raises lower-emission spending, while also forecasting higher oil and gas production to 2030.

Billions in Motion: ExxonMobil’s Financial and Production Targets

ExxonMobil plans about $20 billion of lower-emission capital between 2025 and 2030. It says the $20 billion targets carbon capture and storage (CCS), hydrogen, and lithium projects.

The company projects ~5.5 million oil-equivalent barrels per day (Moebd) of upstream production by 2030. Exxon also forecasts ~$25 billion of earnings growth and ~$35 billion of cash-flow growth by 2030 versus 2024 on a constant price-and-margin basis.

The oil major gives a range for cash capex. It shows $27–29 billion for 2026 and $28–32 billion annually for 2027–2030. The updated plan highlights about $100 billion in major investments planned for 2026–2030. It notes these projects could bring in around $50 billion in total earnings during that time.

ExxonMobil earnings growth 2030
Source: ExxonMobil Updated 2030 Plan

Low-Carbon Plan: $20B for CCS, Hydrogen and Lithium

ExxonMobil describes the $20 billion as focused on three business lines:

  • CCS networks and hubs for third parties.
  • Hydrogen production and integrated fuels.
  • Lithium supply for batteries.

The company says roughly 60% of the $20 billion will support lower-emissions services to third-party customers. It estimates new low-carbon businesses could deliver ~$13 billion of earnings potential by 2040 if markets and policies develop as expected.

ExxonMobil $20B in low carbon investments
Source: ExxonMobil

Exxon’s updated Corporate 2030 Plan lists current and contracted CCS volumes. The company reports about 9 million tonnes per annum (MTA) of CO₂ capture capacity under contract for its U.S. Gulf Coast network. Key project entries include:

  • Linde — Beaumont, TX: ~2.2 MTA CO₂, start-up 2026.
  • CF Industries — Donaldsonville, LA: ~2.0 MTA, start-up 2026.
  • NG3 (Gillis, LA): ~1.2 MTA, start-up 2026.
  • Lake Charles Methanol II: ~1.3 MTA, start-up 2030.
  • Nucor — Convent, LA: ~0.8 MTA, start-up 2026.

The plan also highlights a proposed 1.0 GW low-carbon power/data center project paired with ~3.5 MTA capture, with a planned final investment decision in 2026. Exxon calls its Gulf Coast network an “end-to-end CCS system” and says scale depends on permitting and supportive policy.

ExxonMobil CCS system
Source: ExxonMobil

Counting Carbon: How Exxon Tracks Methane and Emissions Cuts

ExxonMobil says it is making measurable progress on emissions. The company reports faster-than-expected cuts in several intensity metrics. It states it has already met key 2030 intensity milestones and now expects to meet its methane-intensity target by 2026, four years early.

The company repeats its long-term net-zero framing for operated assets. Exxon’s plan targets Scope 1 and Scope 2 net-zero for its operated assets by 2050. It also sets a nearer target of net-zero Scope 1 and 2 for its operated Permian assets by 2035.

These commitments focus on emissions the company directly controls. They do not include a Scope 3 net-zero pledge for customer use of sold products. Exxon underscores that these goals depend on technology, markets, and supportive policy.

On operational achievements, Exxon highlights large cuts in routine flaring and improved equipment standards. The new plan states that the company reduced corporate flaring intensity by over 60% from 2016 to 2024.

  • As shown in the chart below, ExxonMobil’s operated-basis greenhouse gas profile shows a clear decline in Scopes 1 and 2 between the 2016 baseline and 2024.

Also, by 2024, Scope 1 emissions dropped to 91 million metric tons CO₂e. Scope 2 emissions (location-based) reached 9 million metric tons CO₂e. Together, this totals 100 million metric tons CO₂e. This is about a 15% reduction from 2016 based on operations.

ExxonMobil GHG emissions 2024

For the same period, Exxon’s Scope 1+2 emissions intensity dropped from 27.5 to 22.6 metric tons CO₂e per 100 metric tons produced. This shows they are decarbonizing operations, even as production has changed.​

The company also hit other flaring and GHG intensity goals ahead of schedule. These outcomes came from replacing old equipment, tightening operations, and limiting routine venting and flaring.

Exxon lists four categories of near-term reduction actions it is scaling up:

  • Methane control: wider deployment of leak-detection and infrared cameras, more frequent inspections, and accelerated repairs.
  • Flaring reduction: operational changes and stricter shutdown protocols to cut routine flaring.
  • Efficiency and asset management: project design improvements, digital optimization, and selective asset sales or retirements to lower average carbon intensity.
  • CCS and low-carbon services: building capture hubs (about 9 MTA of contracted CO₂ capacity on the U.S. Gulf Coast) and contracting capture services for industrial customers.

The plan also names specific technology and program investments. Exxon highlights advanced sensor networks and real-time emissions monitoring. They also focus on expanding data systems to track and verify reductions. It expects these tools to improve measurement accuracy and speed up corrective action.

Limits and caveats appear repeatedly. Exxon links its long-term net-zero goal to several factors. These include market formation, policy incentives like tax credits and carbon pricing, and permitting timelines. The company warns that total emissions and some asset outcomes will change with production levels and energy demand.

In the near term, key metrics to watch include:

  • 2026 methane-intensity and flaring disclosures.

  • Volumes of CO₂ captured and stored as Gulf Coast CCS projects launch.

  • The pace of FID and execution for the 1.0 GW / 3.5 MTA low-carbon power and capture project.

These will show whether Exxon’s claimed progress converts into sustained emissions declines.

Fueling the Future: Rising Oil & Gas Output Through 2030

Exxon projects higher hydrocarbon output even as it invests in low-carbon businesses. The plan targets ~5.5 Moebd by 2030. The company expects ~65% of production to come from advantaged assets such as the Permian Basin, Guyana, and select LNG.

Permian growth is a core part of the supply outlook. Exxon expects roughly 2.5 Moebd from the Permian by 2030, up materially from 2024 levels. Guyana’s Stabroek Block is another major growth driver.

Exxon plans multiple new offshore start-ups in Guyana before 2030. The company argues that these barrels deliver lower operational carbon intensity compared with many older fields.

Critics say rising production risks locking in fossil reliance. Environmental groups, including the Sierra Club, called the plan inconsistent with a 1.5°C pathway. Exxon responds that the world will need oil and gas for decades and that its strategy balances supply security with emissions reduction. Reuters reported split investor and market reactions when the plan surfaced.

Investor Radar: Metrics to Track Exxon’s Low-Carbon Rollout

ExxonMobil links the pace of low-carbon roll-out to policy, permitting, and market formation. Key near-term items to watch include:

  • Final investment decision and execution of the 1.0 GW / 3.5 MTA project in 2026.
  • Gulf Coast CCS volumes will actually be placed into service in 2026–2030.
  • Methane-intensity disclosures in 2026 to confirm earlier achievement claims.

Market analysts noted Exxon’s plan targets improved earnings and cash flow through 2030 while retaining tight capital discipline. Some news channels highlighted that the company raised its earnings and cash-flow outlook to 2030 without raising total capital allocation.

ExxonMobil’s 2030 Corporate Plan balances growth and green ambition. With $20 billion dedicated to CCS, hydrogen, and lithium, the company aims to cut emissions while increasing oil and gas output.

Success will depend on technology, policy support, and timely project execution, making the next few years critical for investors and stakeholders tracking both energy transition and production growth.

How China’s $180B Clean-Tech Investments Transform the Global South

Jennifer L
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0
How China’s $180B Clean-Tech Investments Transform the Global South

Since early 2023, Chinese companies have pledged more than $180 billion for clean energy projects outside China, according to a report by Climate Energy Finance. These firms produce most of the world’s solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles. They invest in full supply chains, from mining to recycling, helping other countries build green power systems.

China drives this change with large factories, low costs, and strategic planning. Leaders encourage firms to go global, focusing on places with big energy needs and signing agreements to share technology.

The result is a major shift in energy and trade flows. Developing nations in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East are becoming key hubs for green industries.

China Leads Global Clean-Tech Production

China dominates new clean energy plants. From 2018 to 2024, it controlled 80% of new solar, wind, battery, and hydrogen facilities worldwide, per the CEF report. Companies such as CATL and BYD set the pace, exporting billions in technology yearly.

China’s cleantech manufacturing capacity, 2024

Chinese investments cover complete supply chains. Mines, factories, battery plants, recycling centers, and renewable energy projects are all linked. By building such integrated systems, China ensures efficiency, scale, and long-term influence.

Trade agreements and political deals help China expand its reach. Firms get faster approvals, and pacts often include tech-sharing. These moves reshape how energy is produced, consumed, and traded globally.

In a separate report from SNE Research, China controls about 69% of the global electric-vehicle (EV) battery market in 2025. This dominance reflects the country’s strong control over battery supply chains, from material sourcing to manufacturing.

As a result, Chinese firms now significantly influence global battery prices, standards, and EV supply worldwide.

Targeting the Global South: Jobs, Tech, and Energy

Over 75% of China’s projects go to developing nations, and many align with the Belt and Road Initiative. The country selects locations with strict rules, clear policies, and high energy demands.

Global Distribution of Chinese overseas green manufacturing projects
Source: CEF

Chinese companies often form joint ventures with local partners. This approach shares jobs, skills, and technology. Governments support the investments with loans and incentives. Private companies lead the push, but state backing ensures that projects move quickly.

New investments reduce energy costs and create thousands of jobs. Countries see faster industrial growth and benefit from upgraded grids and green exports. China also adapts to local rules, meeting requirements for local labor, content, or training to secure contracts.

Southeast Asia: Batteries, EVs, and Solar Take Off

The world’s biggest emitter is making major moves in Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, CATL is building a $6 billion battery complex in West Java. The plant produces 6.9 GWh per year using nickel from local mines. Recycling units close the loop, and over 10,000 jobs will be created.

In Malaysia, EVE Energy invests $1.2 billion in energy storage, while BYD plans EV factories for cars and buses. GCL Technology also supports solar farms across the region. With these, trade with China is hitting new highs.

Thailand gets battery production from Sunwoda, a $1 billion plant with training centers. Moreover, Changan adds EV research sites, partnering with local firms. As seen in the chart below, the majority of the global battery manufacturers are Chinese firms.

top global battery manufacturers
Chart from CEF

China also uses tax breaks and fast permits to accelerate projects. Local content rules help create steady supply chains. These moves double trade with China and upgrade regional energy grids quickly.

Middle East Goes Green: Solar, Wind, and Hydrogen

China supports Middle Eastern countries in shifting away from fossil fuels. In Saudi Arabia, Shanghai Electric joins a $1.1 billion solar farm, powering 1.5 million homes. ACWA Power trains local staff in China.

Meanwhile, in Morocco, Gotion builds a $5.6 billion battery factory for Europe and local markets. Joint labs create green materials with a 100 GWh yearly capacity.

In Oman, JA Solar’s $564 million plant is producing 6 GW of solar cells. Also, wind turbine projects complement the country’s energy plans. Egypt gets hydrogen projects from LONGi, and Nigeria signs $8.27 billion in clean energy pacts. China brings full technology stacks, turning deserts into power hubs.

These investments lower energy costs, create jobs, and support ambitious national energy plans.

China Expands in Europe

China also targets European energy needs, especially for batteries. Hungary becomes a hub with CATL’s largest European plant in Debrecen. The site aims to produce 100 GWh per year and runs on green power. BMW is a target customer to source from it, and thousands of jobs are expected.

In Spain, CATL and Stellantis are opening a $4.1 billion plant in Zaragoza, producing 50 GWh of batteries starting in 2025. France hosts AESC’s Douai factory, with a target capacity of 40 GWh by 2030. Investments also reach Portugal and Slovakia to avoid EU tariffs.

China brings training programs and research centers, too. Partnerships help local firms gain knowledge and strengthen EV supply chains.

With all these, Europe benefits from faster compliance with car electrification rules by 2035.

Transforming Latin America

In this region, China reshapes Brazil’s auto industry. BYD converts a Ford plant into the region’s largest EV hub, producing 150,000 cars in the first phase. Local steel is used, and later phases add battery production.

Notably, Envision develops a net-zero industrial park, including hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels.

Wind, solar, and hydro projects expand with Chinese partnerships. China Three Gorges develops hydro plants, while grids are upgraded. As such, energy costs drop by 20%, accelerating green transitions in the region.

A Global Strategy with Local Benefits

China’s clean-tech expansion spreads soft power through technology. Research centers abroad train STEM workers, while new agreements ensure long-term cooperation.

A series of high-level bilateral deals were formed in 2025, linking China to emerging nations in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Investments grew by 80% in just one year, and local partners led sales and operations, building trust and reducing tensions.

Chinese Overseas Green Manufacturing Investments
Source: CEF

The Global South, therefore, benefits from cheaper energy, industrial growth, and faster decarbonization with all these projects. Chinese firms remain at the core, guiding global clean-tech supply chains and speeding the transition to net-zero emissions.

China’s Clean-Tech Reach Is Global

China’s $180 billion clean-tech push is reshaping global energy and trade. It creates jobs, reduces energy costs, and spreads green technology. Developing nations gain industrial capacity and know-how while China secures a strong position in global supply chains and expands its influence.

However, careful management is essential. Host nations must enforce local rules, train workers, and build long-term capacity. If done correctly, these investments accelerate global net-zero goals and shift industrial power toward the Global South.

China’s strategy shows that clean energy is not just a domestic goal; it is a global project with wide-reaching economic and environmental impacts.

Climeworks Seals Landmark Carbon Credits Deal with Silicon Valley Startup CarbonZero.Eco for its First Commercial Biochar Facility

Saptakee S
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Climeworks Seals Landmark Carbon Credits Deal with Silicon Valley Startup CarbonZero.Eco for its First Commercial Biochar Facility

Silicon Valley startup CarbonZero.Eco reached a major milestone by completing its first commercial biochar facility in Colusa County, California. At the same time, the company signed a landmark carbon credit deal with Climeworks, one of the world’s most trusted carbon removal companies. This deal positions CarbonZero.Eco as a rising player in the fast-growing carbon removal market.

CarbonZero.Eco Teams Up with Climeworks

Climeworks is known globally for its high-quality carbon removals, especially through direct air capture. By partnering with CarbonZero.Eco, Climeworks now adds biochar-based, nature-driven carbon removal to its portfolio. This combination brings together biochar’s natural carbon storage with Climeworks’ tech-based solutions, thereby boosting credibility and offering verified carbon credits to premium buyers.

The deal highlights the strength of CarbonZero.Eco’s technology. While pricing and volumes were not disclosed, the partnership opens doors to high-end buyers and reinforces CarbonZero.Eco’s market reputation.

Climeworks already works with companies like TikTok and NYK. TikTok, for example, is committed to 5,100 tons of carbon removals through 2030, including biochar. Climeworks sees biochar as cost-efficient, scalable, and immediately deployable, with benefits like healthier soil, improved water retention, and lower emissions from agricultural waste.

Why Biochar Matters

Globally, agriculture produces more than 1.5 billion tons of waste every year. Much of it is burned or left to rot, releasing CO₂ and other pollutants. These practices alone contribute about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Biochar offers a cleaner alternative. Heating agricultural waste in low-oxygen conditions turns it into a stable form of carbon that can last hundreds or even thousands of years. It keeps CO₂ out of the atmosphere and produces a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Over 6,000 studies confirm biochar improves soil fertility, structure, and crop yields.

CarbonZero.Eco is applying biochar in California’s almond industry. Almond shells normally decompose in about two years, releasing carbon. By converting them into biochar instead, the company expects to prevent up to 1.5 million tons of CO₂ emissions.

Scaling Biochar in the Central Valley

The new Colusa County plant is CarbonZero.Eco’s first major production facility. It sits next to almond shell stockpiles, eliminating the need to transport raw material. This lowers emissions and makes the process efficient.

At full capacity, the kilns can produce 30,000 tons of biochar per year, about five times more than most existing technologies. The biochar will be mixed into compost and used by partner farms to enrich soils for future crops.

The facility also helps conserve water. Over 500 aquifers in the Central Valley are drained annually, causing land to sink. Some areas have dropped nearly a foot in a single year. Biochar-amended soils hold 20% more water, reducing irrigation needs and helping stabilize groundwater.

Harper Moss, Founder and CEO of CarbonZero.Eco, said:

“This facility represents a major step toward making carbon-negative agriculture both practical and profitable. By placing our first plant directly where agricultural waste is generated, we’re creating a closed-loop system that benefits farmers, the environment, and the climate. Our mission is to empower American farmers to enhance soil health, improve crop yields, and unlock new revenue streams—while removing atmospheric CO₂ at scale through next-generation biochar production.”

Silicon Valley Backing and Farmer Trust

CarbonZero.Eco emerged from stealth last year with multi-million-dollar backing from leaders at Google, Meta, Amazon, and other tech executives. Since then, it has partnered with hundreds of almond farms across Colusa and Yolo Counties. These farms will divert waste away from landfills and decomposition.

Farmers benefit directly. Biochar stores carbon for centuries, improves water retention, enhances soil health, and boosts crop yields. What used to be waste now becomes both an environmental and financial asset.

Biochar Carbon Credit Market Trends

The market for biochar carbon removal (BCR) credits has grown quickly. This year’s CDR.fyi Biochar Carbon Removal Market Snapshot highlighted that from early 2022 to mid-2025, buyers contracted over 3.04 million tons of BCR credits. Of this, 1.6 million tons were purchased in the first half of 2025 alone, the strongest period yet.

biochar purchase volume

Key trends:

  • Average purchase volumes are rising from 542 tons per buyer in 2022 to 762 tons by H1 2025.

  • Deliveries and retirements are growing. 658,000 tons have been delivered and 302,000 tons retired since 2022, with the rate roughly doubling each year.

Major buyers dominate the market. Microsoft, Google, BCG, and JPMorgan make up 57% of all purchases. Notably, Exomad Green leads supply. It produced 60% of all BCR credits sold since 2022.

The second quarter of 2025 set a record. Driven by Microsoft purchases, the contracted volume in the first half of 2025 exceeded all previous periods combined.

biochar delivery

A New Era for Carbon Removal

CarbonZero.Eco’s first facility and its Climeworks partnership mark a turning point for carbon removal. The company combines agriculture, waste reduction, and climate tech for immediate and long-term impact.

With demand rising for verified, durable carbon credits, CarbonZero.Eco is poised to grow its role in the BCR market. Its work helps farmers, strengthens rural economies, and supports global climate goals.

As the race toward net zero accelerates, scalable solutions like biochar are essential. CarbonZero.Eco is stepping into that role with technology built for real-world impact and partnerships that advance the entire carbon removal ecosystem.

Silver Price Hits $64 as Supply Deficit Enters Fifth Year, Prices May Reach $100/Oz

Jennifer L
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0
Silver Price Hits $64 as Supply Deficit Enters Fifth Year, Prices May Reach $100/Oz

Disseminated on behalf of Sierra Madre Gold & Silver Ltd.

Silver prices surged in December 2025, drawing new attention from investors, industrial users, and mining companies. On December 9, spot silver price broke the level of US$60 per troy ounce, marking a historic high for the metal. 

Five Years of Shortage: Why Silver Supply Can’t Keep Up

The rally comes as the global silver market continues its longest streak of supply deficits in recent years. According to the 2025 World Silver Survey by Silver Institute, the global deficit in 2025 will persist, again, continuing a five‑year structural shortfall.

Mine production, meanwhile, remains largely flat. The Institute notes that the total mined silver supply in 2025 is expected to stay roughly at 813 million ounces, about the same as in prior years. Recycling provides some additional supply, but not enough to close the gap.

That persistent imbalance between supply and demand underpins much of the upward pressure on prices. As one analyst recently noted, silver is “quietly outperforming gold” because of structural deficit conditions and rising demand from renewable energy and industrial sectors.

silver supply and demand
Source: World Silver Survey 2025, The Silver Institute

Rising Demand: Industry Needs + Investor Interest

Demand for silver remains multifaceted. Industrial use, especially in electronics, photovoltaics (solar panels), green technology, and other sectors, continues to be a major driver. According to the 2025 survey, industrial fabrication hit a record, buoyed by strong demand from these sectors.

At the same time, investment demand has surged. Many investors are reallocating to silver, drawn by its dual role as both an industrial commodity and a hedge amid macroeconomic uncertainty, inflation concerns, and currency volatility.

Compared with the start of 2025, silver has nearly doubled in value – a dramatic return that outpaces many other precious metals, including gold.

The Supply Crunch and Why Prices Keep Rising

The year 2025 has seen sharp gains for silver. From early in the year, silver’s price more than doubled as the market tightened and demand surged.

At times in late November and early December, spot silver traded in the upper $50s, with intraday highs reaching or exceeding $58.84 per ounce. The December 9 breakout to the $60 level represents a new peak, marking a milestone for silver’s 2025 rally.

On December 11, after the markets opened, silver extended those gains, touching an intraday high of $64.2062 per ounce, a new historical all-time high.

Silver Price chart - Dec 11, 2025
Source: Bloomberg

What’s Behind the Surge?

Several factors are converging to support silver’s rally:

  • Persistent supply deficit — mine production has stagnated while demand continues to grow, particularly from industrial sectors.
  • Strong industrial demand — especially from sectors tied to renewable energy (solar), electronics, and emerging technologies that rely on silver’s conductive and other properties.
  • Investor demand and macro trends — with economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures, and potential interest‑rate shifts, silver is once again being viewed as a hedge and store of value.
  • Structural constraints on supply growth — silver is often a by‑product in mines for other metals; as such, higher prices do not always lead to proportionally greater new supply.

Analysts Speak: What’s Next for Silver in 2026

Industry forecasters predict a continued silver deficit through 2026. The Silver Institute forecasts ongoing silver deficits through 2026, with 2025’s projected shortfall alone at approximately 117 million ounces (3,660 tonnes)—one of the largest in recent years. 

While some analysts see narrowing gaps ahead, persistent structural imbalances from stagnant mine production (~813 Moz annually) and record industrial demand continue to exert upward price pressure.

Rising demand from green technologies, industrial use, and investment are driving this rebalancing. Bank of America raised its 12-month silver target to $65 per ounce after real yields narrowed and ETF inflows strengthened. Major banks are even more bullish, with BNP Paribas suggesting silver could climb as high as $100 per ounce by the end of 2026 as investors seek safe-haven assets amid persistent inflation and geopolitical risks.

Potential Pitfalls: Risks That Could Stall the Rally

Despite the strong rally, the silver market is not without risks. Industrial demand, particularly for sectors like solar, may slow if companies find cheaper substitutes or reduce silver intensity due to higher prices. Indeed, some analysts expect silver demand to decline this year compared with prior years. 

Investor demand could also wane if macroeconomic conditions change — for example, if interest rates rise, or inflation subsides, making non‑yielding metals like silver less attractive. Market sentiment and speculative flows remain a major variable.

Finally, while the structural supply deficit is real, supply responses (mine expansion, recycling, substitution) could eventually ease tightness. Though such adjustments tend to lag behind price moves because mining and processing silver takes time. 

Beyond Investors: Silver’s Role in Industry and Green Tech

The surge in silver prices has consequences beyond investors. For industries relying on silver — electronics, solar energy, medical devices — cost pressures may rise. Conversely, mining companies stand to benefit, especially those with high‑grade, efficient operations.

For the broader global economy, silver’s rally signals renewed interest in “real assets” in a time of inflation, interest‑rate uncertainty, and structural shifts toward renewable energy and clean technology. Silver may be emerging as a strategic material once again.

Amid this tightening market and rising prices, attention is turning to producers capable of delivering high-grade, reliable silver supply, including Mexico-based Sierra Madre Gold and Silver, whose projects exemplify the type of production needed to meet growing industrial and investor demand.

Mexico’s Hidden Gem: Sierra Madre Gold and Silver

Sierra Madre Gold and Silver (TSX-V: SMV | OTCQX: SMVVF) is emerging as a key silver producer in Mexico. The company operates two major projects, both contributing to the global silver supply amid ongoing deficits.

La Guitarra Mine (State of Mexico)

La Guitarra, acquired from First Majestic Silver Corp., is a fully permitted and producing underground mine. Commercial production began in January 2025 at 500 tonnes per day, with expansion plans targeting up to 1,500 tonnes per day by 2027. The project could restore one of Mexico’s historically significant silver mines to prominence, providing immediate cash flow and operational experience for Sierra Madre.

Tepic Project: High-Grade Epithermal Gold-Silver Potential

The Tepic Project features a high-grade epithermal gold-silver deposit with extensive near-surface mineralization, offering significant exploration upside and multiple pathways for scalable development.

The company’s leadership team includes experienced mining professionals with a track record in developing large-scale silver projects, giving investors confidence in execution and operational efficiency.

Why Silver May Be the Strategic Metal of the Year

Together, Tepic and La Guitarra position Sierra Madre as a potentially significant silver supplier during a period of constrained global supply. Tepic’s projected annual production, combined with La Guitarra’s ramping output, demonstrates how high-grade, reliable projects can support industrial demand, renewable energy expansion, and investor appetite for silver.

With silver prices breaking historic highs and the global market facing its fifth consecutive year of deficit, the spotlight is firmly on both supply and demand dynamics. Industrial growth, renewable energy adoption, and investment inflows continue to drive demand, while constrained mine output and structural supply limitations keep the market tight. 

Companies like Sierra Madre Gold and Silver demonstrate the type of high-grade, reliable production needed to stabilize supply chains, support industrial growth, and meet investor demand. In this environment, silver’s role as both a critical industrial metal and a strategic investment asset has never been more pronounced, signaling that the rally may have staying power well into 2026 and beyond.


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. Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. (“Company”) made a one-time payment of $25,000 to provide marketing services for a term of one 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 of the companies mentioned.

This article is informational only and is solely for use by prospective investors in determining whether to seek additional information. It 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 arbitrarily chosen time periods 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 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 reviewing 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 them.

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,” “plan,” and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations of management; however, it is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated.

These factors include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company’s exploration and development plans, the potential of its mineral projects, financing activities, regulatory approvals, market conditions, and future objectives. Forward-looking information involves numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market volatility, the state of financial markets for the Company’s securities, fluctuations in commodity prices, operational challenges, and changes in business plans.

Forward-looking information is based on several key expectations and assumptions, including, without limitation, that the Company will continue with its stated business objectives and will be able to raise additional capital as required. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis and 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 available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

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

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Google and NextEra Team Up to Build Gigawatt-Scale AI Data Centers Powered by Clean Energy

Jennifer L
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0
Google and NextEra Team Up to Build Gigawatt-Scale AI Data Centers Powered by Clean Energy

Google Cloud and NextEra Energy have expanded their long partnership with a major new deal. They plan to build several gigawatt-scale data center campuses across the United States. Each campus will have its own power generation and energy storage. This setup is meant to keep up with fast-growing artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud demand while making energy use cleaner and more reliable.

Google Cloud will also use NextEra’s power systems to support its enterprise AI and digital transformation services. The companies said the partnership links large new data centers with modern grid tools. They aim to produce cleaner electricity and use AI to manage it more efficiently.

The agreement reflects a wider trend: large tech firms now shape where new power plants, storage, and grid upgrades are built.

Inside the Google–NextEra Power Buildout

The partnership included several new details. NextEra and Google will co-develop multiple U.S. data center campuses at a gigawatt scale. Each site will have dedicated generation and storage, which means the campuses can match their own high electricity demand without adding stress to local grids.

Google Cloud will use NextEra’s solutions for its data centers and enterprise AI services. These tools help businesses run AI systems while using clean energy. Thomas Kurian, Google Cloud CEO, said:

“By infusing NextEra Energy’s deep domain expertise with Google Cloud’s AI infrastructure, platform, and models, we can together support the digital future of energy infrastructure.”

A major part of the deal is a new AI grid-management tool. The companies plan to launch it on the Google Cloud Marketplace by mid-2026. The tool will help grid operators predict equipment failures and improve power-system performance. It will also help forecast electricity demand, which is rising fast due to AI workloads.

The announcement did not share full financial details. However, it confirmed that the work involves new renewable power, large batteries, and grid services that fit the size of Google’s expanding data center fleet.

Why Gigawatt Campuses Could Reshape Grids and Communities

Data centers use a lot of electricity. AI systems need even more power to run large models and process data. Building gigawatt-scale campuses with their own generation and storage helps meet these needs. It also reduces the chance of shortages or strain on local grids.

Sites of this size can bring jobs and tax revenue to nearby communities. Construction brings thousands of temporary roles, and ongoing operations create long-term technical and support jobs. Local businesses often see new demand for services.

These large campuses may also require transmission upgrades. While upgrades can help the wider grid, they also require planning, permitting, and more investment from utilities and regulators.

What Surging AI Demand Means for U.S. Energy Markets

The new deal comes at a time when U.S. data center power demand is rising at historic rates. S&P Global projects that U.S. datacenter grid demand will climb 22% to 61.8 GW by the end of 2025. By 2030, demand is expected to more than double to 134.4 GW.

US data center power demand 2030
Source: S&P Global

Certain states are seeing sharp growth:

  • Virginia may reach 12.1 GW in data center demand in 2025, a 30% jump from last year.
  • Texas may reach 9.7 GW over the same period.

Utilities also expect “hyperscalers” such as Google to add a major new load. In American Electric Power (AEP) territory alone, new demand from these firms may reach 18 GW by 2030.

NextEra said this demand surge has already helped it raise its earnings guidance. The company updated its 2025 adjusted EPS forecast to $3.62–$3.70, up from $3.45–$3.70. It also raised its 2026 adjusted EPS forecast to $3.92–$4.02, up from $3.63–$4.00. Management linked these increases directly to the growth of AI and data center electricity needs.

Battery storage also plays a major role. It helps smooth out peaks in demand and supports grids as more renewable power comes online. Forecasts now show U.S. battery capacity could reach 140–175 GW by 2030. Current capacity is around 35 GW.

U.S. Battery Energy Storage Capacity, Current vs. Forecast

Some regions may add large amounts on their own: ERCOT in Texas and CAISO in California may each reach 40 GW, while PJM could reach 30 GW.

SEIA recommends around 700 GWh, equal to roughly 140 GW of 5-hour battery systems. Wood Mackenzie projects 450 GWh under a baseline case and 600+ GWh under an aggressive case. These numbers show how fast energy systems are expanding to keep up with tech growth.

Still, the sector faces risks. Higher interest rates raise borrowing costs. Transmission bottlenecks slow project timelines. Policy changes and tax-credit updates can also affect financing. Even large partnerships do not remove these risks.

How Google Is Scaling Clean Power to Hit Its 2030 Goals

Google has been one of the world’s largest corporate renewable energy buyers for more than a decade. From 2010 to 2025, the company signed more than 170 clean energy agreements totaling over 22 GW. Recent deals include a large solar power purchase in Ohio that will deliver 1.5 TWh of energy from TotalEnergies.

Google aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2030 across its operations and value chain. It also has a “24/7 clean energy” goal. This means the company wants every data center to run on carbon-free electricity at all hours of the day. Its clean energy purchases avoided over 8 million metric tons of CO2e.

Google clean energy emission reductions
Source: Google

Google’s 2025 sustainability update reported a 12% drop in data center emissions in 2024, even as compute demand rose. The company uses efficiency upgrades, long-term clean-energy contracts, and carbon removal credits. 

Yet, total emissions have still grown since 2019 because the business expanded, and AI needs have increased. Google says it plans to lower overall emissions and rely on removals only for residual amounts.

A New Blueprint for Tech–Utility Energy Deals

The partnership shows how the energy and tech sectors are starting to work together in new ways. It mixes power development with AI-based grid tools. If the companies’ mid-2026 AI product performs well, it could help utilities reduce outages, speed repairs, and plan power flows more accurately.

This model may shape future corporate energy deals. Companies may prefer integrated solutions that combine generation, storage, transmission support, and software. Such models aim to match energy supply with high data center demand from the start, but success will depend on cost, local approvals, and regulatory support.

What This Partnership Signals for the Future of AI Power Demand

NextEra and Google Cloud have expanded their partnership at a time of rising AI and data center demand. The plan includes gigawatt-scale campuses, new clean energy generation, and a coming AI tool to support samarter grids.

Strong electricity demand and new battery storage forecasts suggest the sector will continue to scale quickly. In a separate deal, NextEra Energy also worked with Meta to secure 2.5 GW of solar and battery storage across ERCOT, SPP, MISO, and New Mexico.

Their long-term agreements will power Meta’s data centers, support U.S. grid reliability, and expand Meta’s renewable energy portfolio, with projects starting in 2026–2028.

If the companies meet their targets, this partnership may become a model for how tech firms and energy developers build the next generation of clean, high-power data centers.

Copper Price Hit New Record at $11,771/Ton: What Ignites the Rally?

Jennifer L
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Copper Price Hit New Record at $11,771/Ton: What Ignites the Rally?

Copper price climbed to new record highs this week. The jump came from two major forces: China’s shift toward stronger economic support and growing expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon cut interest rates. Together, they pushed investors toward the metal and highlighted rising fears of a supply shortage in 2026.

On the London Metal Exchange, benchmark three-month copper briefly reached $11,771 per ton. Shanghai futures also hit a peak near 93,300 yuan per ton. New York and Mumbai contracts followed the same direction, showing how broad the rally has become.

China’s Growth Push Sparks Copper Surge

The latest copper price surge began after a key meeting in Beijing. China’s leaders said economic growth would be their top goal in 2026. They promised a “more proactive” fiscal policy and “moderately loose” monetary policy. Markets view this as clear support for new stimulus.

Much of this spending will flow into power-grid upgrades, renewable energy, and large computing and data center systems. These projects use a lot of copper.

Stronger Chinese trade data added support. Exports rose in November, pushing China’s yearly trade surplus to more than $1 trillion for the first time. Shanghai copper futures ended the day up about 1.5%, setting a new record close.

Long-term trends are also boosting demand. The International Energy Agency says clean-energy technologies could raise refined copper use to 33 million tons by 2035 and 37 million tons by 2050. This is up from about 27 million tons in 2024, showing how tight the market could become.

Rate-Cut Speculation Adds Fuel to the Rally

Financial markets are also helping copper rise. Investors expect the U.S. Federal Reserve to cut interest rates by 25 basis points this week. CME FedWatch shows an 85–90% chance of that happening.

Rate cuts usually weaken the U.S. dollar. When the dollar falls, dollar-priced metals like copper become cheaper for global buyers. There are also growing worries about possible U.S. tariffs on refined copper. These fears have led to aggressive stockpiling by American buyers.

LME warehouse withdrawals are rising, and U.S. Comex inventories have reached record levels. At the same time, supplies in other regions are tightening.

China’s smelters plan to cut refined copper output by around 10% because of low treatment charges and limited concentrate supply. Analysts at GF Futures and Citic Securities warn that the market may face a refined copper deficit of about 450,000 tons by 2026. Citic also says prices may need to average above $12,000 per ton in 2026 to support new mine investment.

Supply Shortages in Chile and Peru Intensify Tension

Copper supplies remain tight. Production issues in Chile and Peru—two countries that supply almost 40% of the world’s mined copper—are slowing output. Some mines are dealing with lower ore grades, water shortages, or delays in government approvals.

copper producers 2024
Source: UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

The International Copper Study Group reports that the global supply of refined copper grew by just 1% in 2024. Meanwhile, mine supply went up by less than 2%. This shows how slowly the new supply is growing.

These tight conditions are drawing more attention to future projects, including early-stage miners. Junior companies such as Filo Corp. In Argentina, Ivanhoe Electric in the U.S., and Hudbay’s Copper World project in Arizona are assets that might ease supply pressure later. They are still several years away from full production, but remain part of the long-term supply outlook.

Market Outlook: Volatility Ahead for 2026

Copper markets are preparing for a period of sharp and frequent price swings. Even though prices are at record highs, conditions behind the rally remain fragile.

Inventories on the London Metal Exchange have dropped to very low levels compared to the past ten years, while demand from major sectors continues to rise. This creates a market where small changes in supply or demand can move prices quickly.

Analysts warn that 2026 may bring even tighter conditions. Electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, power lines, and data centers all require large amounts of copper. For example, a single electric car can use up to 4x more copper than a gasoline vehicle.

New solar and wind projects also need copper-heavy cabling and transformers. Data centers for AI and cloud computing are now becoming another fast-growing source of demand.

copper demand in data centers 2030 IEA

Meanwhile, supply is not growing fast enough to match this rise. Many large copper mines in Chile and Peru are dealing with lower ore grades, which means they must move more rock to produce the same amount of metal.

Some projects have also faced delays due to environmental rules, community approvals, or limited water resources. These issues make it harder for miners to respond quickly when demand surges.

Financial factors may add more instability. If the U.S. Federal Reserve cuts rates further or the dollar weakens more, investors could pour additional money into copper. But if the global economy slows or if Chinese demand weakens, prices could fall sharply.

Many analysts believe that copper will be one of the most volatile major commodities until 2026. This is due to strong long-term demand, but also fragile short-term conditions.

Some forecasts from major research groups show the refined copper market staying in deficit for several years. 

J.P. Morgan sees a tight copper market heading into 2026, projecting a global refined‑copper deficit of around 330,000 metric tons. They forecast copper prices to rise to about $12,500 per ton in Q2 2026, with an average price of roughly $12,075 per ton for the full year.

copper price forecast JPMorgan

The analyst also sees rising demand, especially from data centers, electrification, and grid upgrades, as a key upside risk. However, supply issues and tight inventory might maintain upward price pressure.

Meanwhile, the International Copper Study Group notes only slight growth in mine and refined supply. These trends suggest copper may remain tight even if prices pull back from recent highs.

Copper Enters a New Phase

Copper’s move to record highs is not just a short-term story. China’s new stimulus plans, a likely U.S. rate cut, and supply problems in major producing countries are all pushing the market upward at the same time. With inventories low and new projects developing slowly, the market is entering a period of lasting tension.

Copper’s importance to clean energy, electrification, and digital infrastructure means demand will keep rising. As a result, the tight market conditions seen today could continue well into 2026 and beyond.

Siemens Cuts Emissions 66% and Helps Customers Avoid 694 Million Tons of CO₂

Saptakee S
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Siemens Cuts Emissions 66% and Helps Customers Avoid 694 Million Tons of CO₂

Siemens made major progress toward its 2030 climate goals. On December 3, the company said that products sold over the past three years will help customers avoid 694 million metric tons of carbon emissions over their lifetime. That amount is close to Germany’s yearly emissions. Siemens also cut its own operational emissions by 66% compared to 2019, beating its 2025 target earlier than planned.

For the second year in a row, the company helped customers avoid more emissions than it produced across its full value chain. This shift shows how sustainability now strengthens the company’s business and competitiveness.

Sustainability Becomes Part of Siemens’ Core

Eva Riesenhuber, Global Head of Sustainability at Siemens, expressed herself in the press release,

“With more than 90 percent of our business enabling customers to achieve a positive sustainability impact in our three key impact areas, we’re uniquely positioned to empower them to become more competitive, resilient, and sustainable. Even further, our Sustainability Statement 2025 provides measurable proof that our impact on societal infrastructure goes beyond our customers and our own business transformation to reach, ultimately, our planet and society.”

The company uses its DEGREE framework to guide 14 sustainability targets. DEGREE covers six areas: decarbonization, ethics, governance, resource efficiency, equity, and employability. Siemens reports that more than 90% of its business portfolio helps create a positive impact in areas such as energy efficiency, circularity, and people-focused solutions.

Furthermore, it aims to cut scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90% by 2030 and reach net-zero across its full value chain by 2050. It also plans to reduce scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2019.

Its scope 1 and 2 targets match a 1.5°C and scope 3 target aligns with a well-below-2°C pathway. A full 1.5°C scope 3 target would require a 46% cut, which may not be realistic across all markets today.

Emission Reduction Plan

Its 2025 sustainability report highlighted that for scopes 1 and 2, Siemens focuses on: electrifying its vehicle fleet, improving energy performance in buildings, and reducing fuel use in operations.

  • Between 2025 and 2030, the company plans to invest €320 million in capital spending and €410 million in operating costs for these initiatives.
scope emissions Siemens
Source: Siemens

Similarly, for scope 3, it targets reductions through: low-carbon materials, smarter product design, engaging suppliers on sustainability, and improving circularity and recovery at product end-of-life.

  • Its gross scope 3 emissions stood at 159,144 ktCO₂e in 2025.

Because Siemens sells many electric-powered products, customer emissions during product use depend on how fast global power grids decarbonize. Siemens says this is an important factor that could influence its long-term scope 3 progress.

Strong Gains in Circular Design and Resource Efficiency

Circularity remains a major focus for Siemens. In fiscal year 2025, the company expanded its Robust Eco Design approach to 67% of its product and service portfolio. This marked a 13% jump from the previous year.

More than 25,000 Siemens products earned the EcoTech label. These products meet strict environmental standards related to sustainable materials, lower energy use, and better recycling options.

At a sustainability forum, Ross Colon, CEO of Siemens Thailand, said Siemens’ technology helps customers avoid about 144 million tons of CO₂ every year. This amount is higher than the emissions in Siemens’ full supply chain. Colon said technologies like digital twins and AI-powered energy tools already offer strong solutions. “The technology we need is here today,” he said.

Siemens Limits Carbon Credit Use to Residual Emissions

Siemens follows science-based climate targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and prioritizes cutting emissions first to reach Net-Zero.

  • Total carbon credits planned to be cancelled over fiscal 2026–2030 are 70.5 ktCO₂e, of which 1.5 ktCO₂e are already covered by existing contractual agreements.
siemens carbon credits
Source: Siemens
  • Meanwhile, from fiscal 2030, after reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90%, Siemens will address remaining emissions with high-quality carbon credits.
  • Starting in fiscal 2050, it will offset any remaining Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, which will account for no more than 10% of its base-year emissions, using carbon credits that meet SBTi eligibility rules.

These credits are independently verified and follow strict standards for transparency, additionality, permanence, and avoiding double-counting. They also comply with rigorous rules for measuring, monitoring, and reporting greenhouse gas reductions.

Verified Credits Support Emission Goals

Additionally, Siemens recognizes credits certified by leading programs, including Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard, the Gold Standard, and Plan Vivo, as well as other standards such as ISO. It also applies safeguards, such as excluding projects started before 2016, checking project methods like reforestation species, and screening all involved parties.

siemens carbon credits
Source: Siemens

For projects beyond its GHG reduction targets, Siemens follows the Oxford Offsetting Principles. Its portfolio includes different types of credits, with a growing share of permanent removal credits each year. All credits meet verified standards and undergo internal due diligence similar to that applied for credits linked to emission reductions.

  • As a result, in fiscal 2025, Siemens retired 2.0 ktCO₂e of carbon credits outside its value chain.

Helping Customers Avoid Over 1 Billion Tons of Emissions by 2030

Along with reducing its own footprint, Siemens wants to help customers cut emissions at a massive scale. The company aims to enable more than 1 billion tons of cumulative avoided emissions from 2023 to 2030. These savings come from technologies such as efficient motors, automation systems, smart infrastructure, and electrification projects.

It hails customer impact as essential to global decarbonization, especially as industries move toward net-zero targets.

Climate and Innovation Drive Siemens’ Future

Siemens’ progress shows how fast corporate climate action is evolving. The company treats sustainability as a driver of growth, not a cost. With validated science-based targets, strong gains in circularity, and large customer emissions savings, Siemens positions itself as a major player in the global net-zero transition.

The company still faces challenges, including supply chain emissions and the speed at which customers adopt clean electricity. But Siemens remains confident that innovation, digital tools, and smart engineering can support the next stage of climate progress.

Overall, Siemens shows that climate action can strengthen both the planet and the bottom line — and that the transition to a low-carbon future is already underway.

Canada’s Stellantis Dispute: What It Means for EVs and Net-Zero Goals

Jennifer L
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Canada’s Stellantis Dispute: What It Means for EVs and Net-Zero Goals

Canada’s decision to issue a default notice to Stellantis in late 2025 has become one of the year’s major industry stories. The move followed Stellantis’s decision to shift production of the Jeep Compass from its Brampton, Ontario, plant to Illinois in the United States.

The Canadian government claims this breaks earlier funding deals linked to jobs, manufacturing, and future electric vehicle (EV) plans. Stellantis argues that the change is temporary and linked to wider production adjustments in North America.

Beyond the contract disagreement, the situation raises bigger questions. It impacts the company’s EV rollout, its public image on ESG issues, and its long-term net-zero plan. It also tests how governments handle public incentives for the clean energy transition.

How the Conflict Started

The dispute began when Stellantis paused work at the Brampton plant earlier in 2025. The company said market conditions were shifting and that it needed time to reassess future models. The plant was getting ready for new Compass production. It expects stronger hybrid and electric models in the coming years. The pause led to layoffs for around 3,000 workers.

Months later, Stellantis moved production to Illinois. For Canada, this was a major concern. The federal government gave significant financial support, $222 million, to help the company keep operating in Brampton and Windsor. This included investments related to EVs.

The government of Canada and Ontario had pledged “roughly C$500 million” in public support for capital spending at the said Canadian assembly plants.

Officials said the shift broke the terms of the deal, so they issued a default notice and started a 30-day dispute resolution process.

Stellantis responded by saying it remains committed to Canada. It pointed to ongoing activity at the Windsor battery plant and other projects. The company said the Brampton change is an “operational pause,” not a permanent withdrawal.

Stellantis’s spokesperson, Lou Ann Gosselin, stated that:

“Stellantis continues to engage with the government in the dispute resolution process under the agreement. We are working towards our shared objective of securing a long-term, sustainable future for automotive manufacturing in Canada, including in Brampton.”

The outcome now depends on ongoing talks between Stellantis and the government.

Impact on EV Plans in Canada and North America

Stellantis has set major goals for expanding EV and hybrid production across the world. The company needs new factories, battery plants, and supply chain networks to reach these targets. Because of this, the Brampton decision creates uncertainty for Canada’s place in that strategy.

Stellantis EV rollout production plan

The Compass was expected to become one of the company’s next electrified models produced in Canada. Moving production may slow down that plan. It also impacts the country’s aim to create a solid EV manufacturing base. This includes battery cell production, mineral processing, and final assembly.

Canada targets 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035. It has interim goals of 20% by 2026 and 60% by 2030. This plan supports battery production, expected to reach a market size of US$57.50 million by 2025, with a 22% annual growth rate.

Canada Zero Emission Vehicle Target
Source: Government of Canada

Stellantis’ Windsor battery plant, in partnership with LG Energy Solution, focuses on lithium-ion cells for North America. Government support links it to Brampton operations.

Notably, Budget 2025 includes a new $50 million Critical Minerals Fund starting in 2026. It also features Accelerated Investment Incentives for EV-related assets, such as zero-emission vehicles and clean equipment.

The dispute reflects broader pressures from U.S. trade policy, including tariffs on imported vehicles. Stellantis shifted production to avoid higher costs under these tariffs. While the move triggered Canada’s default notice, it highlights how trade measures can influence automakers’ production decisions.

Tariffs raise the costs of cross-border manufacturing. This can push companies to focus on saving money instead of keeping local commitments. This happens even when public funding and EV projects are involved.

This case shows how EV strategies depend on long-term commitment. Moving a model meant to aid future electrification brings up concerns about execution and timing. It also highlights how cross-border rules, tariffs, and manufacturing incentives can shape decisions, even when they clash with broader sustainability goals.

Why Production Moves Matter for Net-Zero Pathways

Stellantis aims to reach carbon net zero by 2038. This includes emissions from its factories, supply chain, and the use of its vehicles. Reaching that target requires steady progress in electric vehicle adoption, cleaner production, and more renewable energy.

Stellantis net zero
Source: Stellantis

The dispute with Canada may not change the company’s long-term goals, but it affects the pathway toward them. When EV projects slow down, carbon reductions slow as well. This is especially true in North America, where passenger vehicle emissions are a big part of climate plans.

Several risks emerge:

  • Delays in EV launches reduce the pace of emissions cuts from new vehicles.
  • Interrupted supply chains increase emissions when materials travel longer distances.
  • Delays in battery plant ramp-up limit production of low-carbon models.
  • Short-term reliance on combustion models keeps fleet emissions higher for longer.

To stay on track, Stellantis must show how it will balance financial pressures with commitments to carbon reductions. The company has to explain how production adjustments fit into its net-zero roadmap and what new steps it will take to reduce emissions.

Its strategy combines cleaner manufacturing, electrification, and circular‑economy practices to lower greenhouse‑gas emissions. So far, the carmaker achieved the following:

  • By 2024, Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions dropped about 39 % relative to 2021 levels.

  • 59 % of the electricity powering Stellantis operations came from decarbonized sources in 2024, up from 45 % in 2021.

Stellantis GHG emissions 2024
Source: Stellantis 2024 Sustainability Statement

  • Has expanded circular‑economy practices, recycling over two million vehicle parts globally in 2023, including bumpers, wheels, catalytic converters, and high‑voltage batteries.

Stellantis is pursuing an aggressive electrification roadmap, offering more battery‑electric and hybrid models. It is building an integrated battery ecosystem, including sustainable sourcing and recycling.

Also, efforts target emissions across the full “well‑to‑wheel” and “cradle‑to‑grave” lifecycle, including production, operations, and vehicle use.

A Turning Point for EV and ESG Expectations

Governments across the world are offering major financial incentives to support EV manufacturing. These include tax credits, direct funding, and long-term partnerships with automakers. Canada’s firm response to Stellantis shows that public funding may come with much stricter enforcement in the future.

This dispute could reshape how public-private partnerships work in the clean energy transition. It shows that governments want companies to fulfill their duties. This includes not only financial responsibilities but also creating jobs, making EVs, and developing supply chains.

The decision to move production affects Canadian workers, EV timelines, and carbon-reduction goals. It shapes the company’s reputation with governments and investors. It also highlights the challenges automakers face when balancing cost pressures with sustainability goals.

The Stellantis-Canada conflict is a test of how well the auto industry can manage the shift to electric mobility while meeting net-zero commitments. As talks continue, the results will influence future EV projects in Canada and beyond. It will also shape how governments structure funding deals tied to clean technology transitions.

Meta and NextEra Partner for a Big Solar and Storage Energy Deal

Jennifer L
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Meta and NextEra Partner for a Big Solar and Storage Energy Deal

Meta, owner of Facebook, Thread, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has signed one of its largest clean energy agreements in the United States. The company entered a new partnership with NextEra Energy Resources to secure about 2.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar power and energy storage.

The deal includes projects across several major U.S. power markets and will support the growing electricity needs of Meta’s data centers. It also expands Meta’s long-term plan to match its operations with clean and renewable energy.

Inside Meta’s Biggest Solar-and-Storage Power Grab Yet

Meta and NextEra Energy agreed on a group of long-term power purchase agreements. These contracts cover 11 new solar power deals and two battery storage agreements. When combined, they equal about 2.5 GW of clean energy capacity. This is enough electricity to support several large data centers.

Most of the new capacity comes from nine solar farms, which will be built in regions covered by ERCOT in Texas, SPP in the central U.S., and MISO in the Midwest. Some of the projects are also based in New Mexico under the local utility’s clean energy program. These New Mexico facilities will deliver around 190 megawatts (MW) of solar energy and 168 MW of battery storage.

The new contracts add to previous deals between Meta and NextEra. Before this announcement, Meta already had about 500 MW of clean energy agreements with the company. The new projects will begin construction over the next few years. Both companies expect the facilities to start operating between 2026 and 2028.

Here are the main items from the deal:

  • About 2.5 GW in total clean energy capacity.
  • Solar projects across ERCOT, SPP, MISO, and New Mexico.
  • 9 major solar plants and several battery systems.

These contracts are long-term and are designed to supply clean electricity directly to Meta’s operations in the U.S.

Why This Deal Matters to the Companies and the US Grid

This agreement matters to several groups, including Meta, NextEra, state and local communities, and America’s power system.

For Meta, the deal strengthens its ability to support its fast-growing data center network with clean power. Data centers use a lot of electricity, and demand is rising because of cloud services and artificial intelligence.

By signing long-term clean energy contracts, the tech giant gains more control over future energy costs. It also moves closer to its goal of matching all company operations with renewable energy.

For NextEra Energy Resources, the partnership adds to its development pipeline and strengthens revenue through stable, multi-year contracts. The company already leads the U.S. market in renewable power development. Securing large buyers like Meta helps lower financing risks and increases the speed of project construction.

For local communities, the new solar and storage projects will bring jobs. Construction of these facilities is expected to create more than 2,400 temporary jobs, along with additional economic activity from local spending on equipment and services.

For grid operators, new capacity in ERCOT, SPP, and MISO arrives at a time when these regions are managing higher power demand. Many states in these markets have seen strong growth in tech-driven electricity use.

Moreover, as the projects include battery storage, they can support the grid by providing power during late afternoon and evening hours when solar production drops.

Urvi Parekh, Head of Energy at Meta, noted:

“We are proud to continue our collaboration with NextEra Energy Resources in advancing energy infrastructure and storage solutions. The integration of 2.1 GW across ERCOT, SPP, and MISO, along with more than 350 MW from the three-way collaboration with PNM in New Mexico, to support our data center operations, demonstrates how industry cooperation can drive technological progress and strengthen America’s energy infrastructure.”

What the Numbers Show About America’s New Energy Boom

This deal reflects a wider trend in the energy market. Large technology companies are now among the biggest buyers of renewable power in the world.

Large tech firms lead global renewable procurement, with Meta securing 791 MW solar PPAs in 2025, plus this new deal with NextEra. This contributes to over 9.8 GW total contracted capacity toward 100% U.S. data center renewables by 2030.Meta Annual Renewable Energy Deals Announced

Meta’s annual clean energy procurement shows steady growth, peaking in 2025 with record announcements to power AI data centers. Google and Microsoft have similarly expanded deals, including Google’s 900 MW solar PPA, positioning tech as top buyers amid AI-driven needs.

As data center demand increases, these companies must secure a long-term electricity supply. Many now choose clean energy because it offers stable pricing and supports corporate climate goals.

  • Meta’s 2.5 GW contract also highlights how fast renewable power is scaling. For comparison, one gigawatt of solar can power hundreds of thousands of homes.

Deals of this size were rare a decade ago. Today, they are becoming more common as renewable energy becomes cheaper and easier to build.

Developers like NextEra are responding to this demand. Rising interest from data center operators has encouraged the company to raise its earnings forecast for the next several years.

U.S. electricity consumption hit record highs in 2024, with EIA forecasting further rises due to data centers for AI and crypto. Data center power demand may climb 20-40% in 2025. Some regions are seeing 4%+ annual growth through the early 2030s and a potential 4x expansion by 2032.

US data center power use 2030 BLoomberg
Source: Bloomberg

Battery storage also plays a bigger role in these new deals. Storage can reduce stress on the power grid by holding excess solar energy and releasing it at night. U.S. battery capacity targets exceed 30 GW by end-2024. Some analysts expect up to 140-150 GW by 2030 despite interconnection hurdles.

These changes point to a shift in how the U.S. energy system plans new resources. Instead of relying mostly on natural gas or coal, utilities and developers are now building more solar, wind, and batteries. Corporate buyers like Meta help drive this shift by guaranteeing demand for new clean energy projects.

US battery energy storage 2030
Source: McKinsey & Company

How Meta Is Building a Multi-Tech Clean-Power Portfolio

Meta has been expanding its clean energy portfolio for years, and this new deal fits into a broader strategy. The company has already signed dozens of renewable contracts across the U.S. and has pledged to match its global operations with clean energy.

In mid-2025, Meta signed a 20-year nuclear power agreement for more than 1 GW of carbon-free energy in Illinois. This deal supports the Clinton Clean Energy Center and helps keep the plant in operation through the next decade.

Meta has also partnered with other solar developers, including ENGIE North America, on a 600 MW solar project in Texas.

Meta’s energy strategy focuses on three main goals:

  • Support the growth of renewable and zero-carbon energy.
  • Secure long-term electricity supply for data centers.
  • Reduce the company’s carbon footprint and meet climate commitments.

The new agreement with NextEra strengthens all three goals. It also shows that large companies are willing to support a mix of technologies, including solar, batteries, and nuclear, to meet long-term needs.

Is This the Next Phase of U.S. Clean Energy?

Meta’s new 2.5 GW clean-energy agreement with NextEra represents a major step for both companies and for the U.S. renewable energy market. The deal adds a large amount of new solar and battery capacity to several important power regions. It supports Meta’s growing electricity needs and strengthens NextEra’s project pipeline.

As the country’s energy system shifts toward clean power, partnerships like this help speed the transition. The success of the projects will depend on construction schedules, grid connections, and long-term planning. But the scale of the deal shows how fast clean energy development is advancing, and how large companies are helping build the next generation of the nation’s power supply.

Verra Issues First CCP-Labeled IFM Credits Under VM0045: A New Era for Forest Carbon Accounting

Saptakee S
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Verra Issues First CCP-Labeled IFM Credits Under VM0045: A New Era for Forest Carbon Accounting

Verra has officially issued the first carbon credits carrying the Core Carbon Principles (CCP) label under its Improved Forest Management (IFM) methodology, VM0045. This milestone comes after the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM) approved the latest version of the methodology, marking a major step forward for transparent and reliable forest carbon accounting.

VM0045—formally known as Improved Forest Management Using Dynamic Matched Baselines from National Forest Inventories—introduces a new way of evaluating forest carbon. Instead of relying on long-term growth models or outdated assumptions, it uses real, continuously updated forest inventory data to set dynamic baselines. This design helps project developers track real-world carbon changes with a higher level of precision and integrity.

Mandy Rambharos, CEO, Verra, noted:

“This is a powerful example of how innovation and integrity can work hand-in-hand to unlock new opportunities for forest stewardship. VM0045 not only meets the highest standards of climate rigor but also empowers rural landowners to participate in climate action in innovative and impactful ways. We’re proud to see CCP-labeled credits being generated by a project that puts family forest owners at the center of the solution.”

Verra’s VM0045: A New Approach to Forest Carbon Accounting

VM0045 stands out because it supports many IFM practices and uses dynamic performance benchmarks. Instead of relying on modeled projections, it directly compares project plots with matched baseline plots taken from national forest inventory data. These baseline plots come from outside the project area but share the same starting conditions.

Because the baseline plots are monitored over time, the method captures real changes in forests, including impacts from climate, pests, markets, and natural disturbances. This real-time comparison creates a quasi-experimental setup, making carbon accounting more accurate and harder to manipulate.

The methodology focuses on measuring actual changes in carbon, not estimating total carbon stocks. Tracking increases or decreases within permanent sample plots improves the precision of reported emission reductions and carbon removals.

How it Works in Practice

The methodology allows projects to adopt one or more specific IFM practices that deliver measurable climate benefits. To qualify, these practices must be new, additional, and not pre-existing on the land.

Examples of eligible IFM activities include:

  • Enrichment planting
  • Managing vegetation to support natural regeneration
  • Irrigation or fertilization to improve tree growth
  • Lowering harvest levels
  • Delaying or extending harvest cycles
  • Setting up forest reserves
  • Reducing fire risk through fuel management

For all these activities, VM0045 uses a large-scale monitoring and accounting system that tracks how each practice affects greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions or carbon sequestration.

Unlike traditional IFM methodologies, VM0045 does not require developers to run growth-and-yield forest models. Instead, it uses actual field measurements from both the project area and matched baseline plots. As these plots are monitored year after year, the methodology updates baseline expectations dynamically.

This approach ensures that project results reflect the real world—not hypothetical scenarios—making the credits more credible to buyers and regulators.

Key Deadlines and Versions

Several important deadlines apply to VM0045 users:

  • VM0045 v1.2 became active on July 10, 2025.
  • Projects using v1.1 must complete validation and submit registration by April 30, 2026.
  • Verra released Corrections and Clarifications for v1.1 on December 13, 2024, and all projects using that version must apply them.
  • Projects using v1.0 must have been listed before March 12, 2024, and validated by March 12, 2025.

These updates ensure that projects operate under the most rigorous version of the methodology.

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First Credits Issued: Family Forest Carbon Program

The Family Forest Carbon Program – Central Appalachia, developed by the American Forest Foundation (AFF) with support from The Nature Conservancy, became the first project to receive credits under VM0045 v1.2. The project earned 18,326 Verified Carbon Units (VCUs).

Although the project originally began under version 1.1, AFF voluntarily transitioned to v1.2 after it received ICVCM approval. This move demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental integrity and the highest standards of carbon crediting.

This issuance also highlights how VM0045 can open the voluntary carbon market to small landowners. These landowners often struggle with high participation costs and complex requirements. The simpler, more standardized design of VM0045 helps reduce those barriers.

Carbon Sequestration Potential of Forests 

IFM credits
Source: BCG.com

Using National Forest Inventories—In the U.S. and Beyond

Currently, VM0045 uses data from the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) database, which tracks forest conditions across the country. However, the methodology was designed to be globally adaptable. Many countries have national forest inventory programs with comparable datasets.

Work is underway to expand VM0045 so developers in more regions can use their national inventories to build dynamic baselines and project comparisons. This will make the methodology a powerful tool for forest conservation worldwide.

Global Impact of IFM on Carbon Markets

Improved Forest Management, or IFM, refers to a set of sustainable practices that help existing forests store more carbon or avoid emissions. Unlike plantiFng new forests, IFM focuses on managing current forestlands in ways that increase carbon storage while supporting ecosystem health.

These practices help forests grow older, become more diverse, and build resilience against disturbances like fire, drought, and pests. At the same time, IFM supports continued timber production by optimizing harvest cycles instead of eliminating them.

Because IFM projects often run for 100 years or more, they ensure long-term carbon benefits and create healthier forests that can withstand climate stress.

IFM credits CCP
Source: BCG.com

IFM plays a major role in voluntary carbon markets.

  • Studies have shown that, globally, 293 IFM projects have produced about 11% of all offset credits issued by registries. These projects direct substantial climate finance into forest conservation.
  • IFM practices could increase global carbon stocks by 0.2 to 2.1 gigatonnes of CO₂e per year without reducing wood supply or other ecosystem services.
  • Practices like longer rotations, reduced-impact logging, soil protection, and habitat conservation all help build more stable and productive forest ecosystems.

In tropical regions, for example, reduced-impact logging preserves soil carbon and limits forest degradation. In temperate forests, extending harvest cycles helps trees store more carbon while maintaining timber revenues.

IFM can also boost resilience, reducing the risk of carbon loss from wildfire, insects, and extreme weather—threats that are becoming more intense due to climate change.

Thus, with strong support and a robust regulatory environment, IFM projects—especially those under VM0045—can play a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

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