Africa’s Solar Imports from China Surge 60% in 2025, Pushing Clean Energy Goals

Saptakee S
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Africa’s Solar Imports from China Surge 60% in 2025, Pushing Clean Energy Goals

Africa is slowly stepping into the solar spotlight. According to the Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) in 2024, the continent added 2.5 GW of new capacity, taking the total installed solar to 19.2 GWp. Yet, even with this growth, the divide between Africa and the rest of the world is still widening.

For decades, solar power has played a critical role across Africa—lighting rural homes, powering water pumps, running mini-grids, and keeping hospitals connected. Now, momentum is shifting from small-scale use to large-scale adoption. The question is no longer whether solar will expand, but how fast and how broadly it will spread.

China’s Solar Exports Drive Africa’s Growth

The clearest signal of Africa’s solar rise comes not from domestic capacity figures but from trade flows. According to new research, “The first evidence of a take-off in solar in Africa” by energy think tank Ember, in the 12 months ending June 2025, Africa imported 15,032 MW of solar panels from China—a 60% jump from the previous year.

China Africa solar import
Source: Ember

Notably, over the past two years, imports outside South Africa have nearly tripled, soaring from 3,734 MW in 2023 to 11,248 MW in 2025. This marks a structural shift: solar demand is no longer concentrated in a handful of markets but is spreading across the continent.

  • 20 countries set new import records in the last year.

  • 25 countries imported at least 100 MW, up from 15 the year before.

  • Countries such as Algeria, Zambia, Botswana, and Sudan experienced explosive growth, with imports increasing several times over.

For countries with fragile electricity systems, the implications are enormous. In Sierra Leone, the panels imported in 2024 alone could supply 61% of the nation’s total 2023 electricity generation. In Chad, they could deliver nearly half of the annual demand.

Economics Now Favor Solar Over Diesel

The case for solar in Africa is no longer just environmental—it’s economic. Heavy reliance on diesel imports has left many countries vulnerable to price shocks and soaring fuel bills. Solar is fast becoming the cheaper, more resilient option.

In Nigeria, savings from avoiding diesel imports can pay off the cost of a solar panel in just six months. In several other countries, the payback is even quicker.

Despite the surge in solar imports, fossil fuels still dominate trade balances. In nine of the top ten solar panel importers, the value of imported refined petroleum outweighed solar panels by 30 to 107 times. This mismatch highlights the scale of opportunity: replacing even a fraction of fossil fuel imports with solar would transform energy security and economic resilience across Africa.

Installed Solar Capacity and The Concentration Challenge

While imports are spreading across the continent, installed capacity remains heavily concentrated. AFSIA says that of the 2.5 GW installed in 2024, a staggering 78% came from just two countries—South Africa and Egypt.

  • South Africa accounted for 50%.

  • Egypt added 29%, almost all from two mega-projects in Kom Ombo.

The dominance of these two nations reflects both their stronger policy frameworks and their ability to attract international finance. But it also underscores a challenge: outside of a few hotspots, large-scale solar development is still slow to take root.

Encouragingly, 2025 could change that narrative. A pipeline of landmark projects is now under construction in countries that have not traditionally led the solar charge. If delivered, these could shift the balance of Africa’s solar map in the coming years.

Africa solar
Source: Ember

Utility-Scale Solar Makes a Comeback

After two years where commercial and industrial (C&I) projects led the way, utility-scale solar rebounded strongly in 2024, representing 72% of all new capacity.

This resurgence was powered by large, donor-backed projects, often financed by development finance institutions (DFIs) and built by international developers. National utilities, supported by governments, remain the primary off-takers.

Still, the C&I segment is far from disappearing. In South Africa, C&I accounted for 39% of new solar capacity, driven by both small embedded projects and larger wheeling initiatives that bypass strained grids.

By contrast, in Nigeria, weak transmission infrastructure makes utility-scale projects harder to sustain. Instead, C&I, residential rooftop systems, and mini-grids dominate the solar mix, with private companies and communities driving the transition from below.

Still China Remains Africa’s Solar Lifeline…

Africa’s solar boom would not be possible without China. In 2024, China produced 80% of the world’s solar panels and remains by far the largest exporter. Africa’s dependence on imports is heavy because local manufacturing capacity is still minimal.

  • Morocco has doubled its annual production to 1 GW.

  • South Africa maintains a similar capacity.

  • Egypt and Nigeria host small manufacturing lines, but volumes are limited.

Larger projects are in the works. Egypt will soon add significant capacity through EliTe Solar (3 GW in 2025), Sunrev Solar (2 GW in 2026), and a Masdar plant (4 GW, start date unannounced). These projects could eventually reduce Africa’s reliance on imports, but until then, Chinese exports remain the backbone of growth.

Solar’s Ripple Effects Across Economies

The Ember report further highlights that in 16 African countries, the solar panels imported in just one year could boost electricity generation by more than 5%. That is a game-changer for economies plagued by power shortages.

The shift also has profound fiscal consequences. Every dollar spent on solar reduces exposure to volatile global fuel prices, strengthens local currencies, and frees up budgets for critical investments in health, education, and infrastructure.

At a household and business level, distributed solar is breaking new ground. From small rooftop panels to mini-grids, decentralized systems are enabling energy access where traditional utilities have failed. For rural communities, that means lights in schools, refrigeration in clinics, and power for small businesses—building blocks for broader economic growth.

africa solar
Source: Ember

Is Africa’s Solar at a Crossroads?

The surge in imports shows that solar is no longer a niche or donor-driven sector in Africa. Instead, it is becoming a mainstream energy choice. The question now is whether governments can harness this momentum, ensure fair distribution, and scale up both infrastructure and financing to meet demand.

The risk is that growth remains uneven. If capacity stays concentrated in just a few countries, much of Africa could remain locked into fossil fuel dependence, missing out on the economic and social benefits of clean power.

But the opportunity is vast. With costs falling, technology advancing, and local manufacturing beginning to scale, Africa could leapfrog into a solar-powered future faster than many expect.

Africa renewables
Source: IEA

Yet, despite more than ~20 GW of installed capacity, the region still trails far behind the global curve. Concentration in South Africa and Egypt highlights both progress and fragility. To close the gap, policymakers must support broader adoption, attract investment beyond the usual markets, and accelerate local manufacturing.

If that happens, Africa’s energy future could change a lot. It might move from relying on expensive fossil fuels to a solar-driven system. This new system could provide power, stability, and growth all over the continent.

ChatGPT, Gemini, and DeepSeek Are on an AI Race – But at What Climate Cost? A Comparison

Jennifer L
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ChatGPT, Gemini, and DeepSeek Are on an AI Race – But at What Climate Cost? A Comparison

A new report from venture firm a16z highlights a shifting race in generative artificial intelligence (AI). Google’s Gemini, China’s DeepSeek, and even Grok, backed by Elon Musk, are gaining ground on OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

But as these AI rivals advance, there’s an urgent question: how green are their growing footprints? Let’s take a closer look at each of the top three AI’s environmental footprints below.

Competitors Rise: How Google and Grok Are Gaining Ground on ChatGPT

The a16z report maps the top 100 generative AI apps, showing that ChatGPT has strong competition emerging. Google’s Gemini is expanding quickly, and Grok—new but promising—is stepping onto the field, too.

Top 50 AI web products
Source: a16z

Gemini’s strength comes from Google’s massive infrastructure. Its backing allows faster improvements and better integration across services like search, Gmail, and cloud tools. Gemini’s smooth response and deep context give it a competitive edge.

Meanwhile, DeepSeek earns the third spot because it strikes a middle ground between efficiency and emissions. Much of its footprint comes from running on China’s coal-heavy power grid, which raises its carbon intensity compared to peers with greater access to renewable energy.

Meanwhile, ChatGPT stays strong thanks to its large user base and bold partnerships. OpenAI’s alignment with Microsoft means tight integration in Office, Azure, and more. ChatGPT also supports fine-tuning and plugins, making it more flexible for businesses and developers.

AI web visits
Source: a16z

Despite their differences, the report shows all three top models are advancing quickly in user experience, expanding features, and market presence. It marks a growing field, not one dominated by ChatGPT alone anymore.

Watt for Watt: Who’s the Greenest Chatbot? Comparing AI Footprints

As AI usage grows, its environmental impact becomes critical. Let’s compare how these three models fare in energy use and emissions.

OpenAI ChatGPT

ChatGPT sits in the middle of the spectrum. Its exact footprint varies depending on which study you use, but most analyses suggest it consumes more energy and emits more carbon per query than Gemini. 

Part of this comes from heavier model sizes and widespread usage. Improvements in hardware efficiency and energy sourcing are bringing numbers down, but its typical footprint is still higher than Google’s.

OpenAI’s Sam Altman claims a ChatGPT query uses as much power as running an oven for about one second. Independent estimates align with this level.

Although a single query uses moderate energy, the rapid growth in usage means overall consumption is significant. U.S. data centers—many of which power AI—could account for up to 8% of U.S. electricity use by 2030.

Greenly, a carbon accounting firm, estimates that using ChatGPT-4 to respond to one million emails monthly could generate 7,138 tonnes of CO₂, equating to about 4,300 round-trip flights Paris–New York per year. 

chatGPT energy use
Source: Epoch AI
  • Energy use per prompt: ~3 Wh (can be lower in some estimates, ~0.3 Wh)
  • CO₂ emissions per prompt: ~2–3 g (includes amortized training emissions)

SEE MORE: ChatGPT Hits 700M Weekly Users, But at What Environmental Cost?

Google Gemini

Google has been working to make its AI models more efficient, and Gemini reflects this push. According to Google’s own reporting, text-based queries in Gemini consume very little energy compared to earlier AI systems. 

The company highlights dramatic efficiency gains in both energy use and carbon intensity, making Gemini one of the leaner large models when handling short, text-only prompts.

  • According to Google, a median Gemini AI text prompt uses just 0.24 watt-hours, emits 0.03 grams of CO₂, and consumes 0.26 milliliters of water—about five drops. 

Over the past year, Google claims a 33× reduction in energy use per prompt and a 44× reduction in carbon footprint while improving quality.

Google Gemini AI carbon emissions
Source: Google

Experts warn Google’s method may understate environmental cost by excluding indirect water usage (e.g., power plant cooling) and relying on market-based carbon accounting.

  • Energy use per prompt: ~0.24 Wh
  • CO₂ emissions per prompt: ~0.03 g
  • Water use per prompt: ~0.26 mL

READ MORE: Google Reveals the Environmental Cost of Gemini AI Query

DeepSeek R1

DeepSeek’s reasoning models work well with long, complex prompts. This makes them more energy-intensive than regular chat models.

DeepSeek hasn’t shared its exact CO₂ figures. However, benchmarking shows that its energy use per query is much higher than competitors. This is especially true for tasks that require multi-step reasoning or coding. This places DeepSeek at the high end of per-query emissions.

A recent academic study found that models like DeepSeek-R1 use more than 33 Wh per long prompt—over 70× the energy of smaller models like GPT-4.1 Nano. Large-scale inference, with 700 million queries daily, could use as much electricity as 35,000 U.S. homes. It would also need a forest the size of Chicago to offset its carbon emissions.

  • Energy use per long reasoning prompt: >33 Wh
  • CO₂ emissions per prompt: Likely an order of magnitude higher than ChatGPT (depends on grid mix): ~2–4 g

At first glance, Gemini seems the greenest per query (with footprints barely visible in the chart below), while ChatGPT has a moderate impact, and DeepSeek is the least efficient. But real-world AI use involves billions of queries daily. So, even small differences matter.

Generative AI environmental footprint comparison

As AI scales, overall energy and CO₂ use skyrocket unless systems are optimized for efficiency.  

Data Centers or Carbon Centers? The Stakes for Climate

The environmental stakes are real. Experts estimate global data center use could hit 945 terawatt-hours (TWh) by 2030, with AI responsible for 652 TWh—an 80× jump from today.
 Generative AI alone may cause 18–246 million tons of CO₂ emissions per year by 2035, similar to entire industries like aviation or shipping.

Without green design, AI growth could claw back efforts to reduce climate impact. Companies need to think beyond speed and accuracy—AI must grow sustainably, too.

AI Growth Meets Climate Responsibility: What Comes Next

The AI competition is intensifying—with ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grok pushing each other forward. Users benefit from better tools, but rising usage means rising environmental costs. To move forward responsibly, analysts suggest these actions:

  • Developers should optimize AI models for energy efficiency, just like Gemini’s leap.
  • Companies should track and reveal full lifecycle impacts—not just inference costs.
  • Cloud providers and AI firms need policies favoring renewable energy and efficient data center cooling.
  • Public policy could reward low-carbon AI, possibly with incentives or carbon pricing.

The a16z report shows that generative AI has entered a new phase—competition among equals, not a single leader. ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grok are all driving innovation in AI. But with growing usage comes growing environmental responsibility.

As the field speeds up, AI’s impact on climate can’t be ignored. Models that combine high performance with low energy use will define the future. If innovators balance progress with sustainability, AI’s value could be even greater—and greener.

Dell’s AI Server Boom Powers Record Earnings and a Net Zero Push

Saptakee S
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0
Dell’s AI Server Boom Powers Record Earnings and a Net Zero Push

Dell Technologies is riding two big waves: rising demand for AI servers and a strong push for sustainability. Recently, the company announced record second-quarter earnings and raised its revenue forecast for fiscal 2026. AI systems are now key to its growth and climate goals.

Dell’s AI Servers Drive a Big Revenue Jump

In the second quarter of fiscal 2026, Dell saw rapid growth in its AI sector. Revenue reached a record $29.8 billion, up 19% from last year. Operating income rose to $1.8 billion, a 27% increase. Earnings per share jumped 38% to $1.70, with adjusted EPS hitting a record $2.32.

The standout? AI servers. Built on NVIDIA chips, these systems drove a 44% revenue increase in Dell’s Infrastructure Solutions Group. Sales of servers and networking soared 69% to $12.9 billion. The company shipped $8.2 billion in AI systems, secured $5.6 billion in new orders, and ended the quarter with an $11.7 billion backlog.

This momentum led Dell to raise its AI server sales outlook to $20 billion for fiscal 2026, a 33% increase. The total expected annual revenue is now between $105 billion and $ 109 billion, a 12% increase from last year.

PCs Lag as Enterprise Demand Surges

While AI boosted Dell’s growth, the PC segment lagged. Sales grew only 1%, mainly due to corporate upgrades as support for Windows 10 ends in October. This weak outlook impacted Dell’s near-term forecast, with Q3 EPS projected at $2.45, which fell short of Wall Street’s expectations. Shares dropped nearly 5% after hours.

Even so, a clear trend is emerging. PCs may grow slowly, but enterprise spending on AI and cloud infrastructure is reshaping Dell’s growth story.

dell
Source: Dell

The Sustainability Thread in Dell’s Growth

Dell is aligning its growth with climate goals. The company uses circular economy principles in its supply chain and customer relationships. It aims to reduce waste, enhance resource efficiency, and cut emissions throughout its product lifecycle.

Dell has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 across its value chain. Its 2030 goals focus on energy efficiency, renewable power, and responsible sourcing. This shows Dell’s belief that technology can help drive a low-carbon economy.

Tackling Energy and Emissions

Its sustainability report says that Dell targets Scope 1 emissions, including fuel use from corporate jets and vehicles. The company plans to switch to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and work with providers to expand access.

For its fleet, Dell is optimizing vehicle types and numbers while adding more electric options. Electrifying its fleet may raise electricity demand (and Scope 2 emissions), but Dell is balancing this by speeding up its renewable energy transition.

Like many tech firms, Dell’s Scope 2 emissions—from purchased electricity—make up most of its footprint. To address this, Dell invests in renewable power through virtual power purchase agreements (vPPAs), joint PPAs, and renewable energy credits. It is also exploring new on-site solar projects to lessen grid reliance.

It is making significant efficiency improvements in its labs and data centers, where much electricity is consumed. These sites power the servers driving AI growth, making energy efficiency vital for operations and climate goals.

dell emissions
Source: Dell

Dell is also tackling Scope 3 emissions throughout its value chain, focusing on two areas: purchased goods and customer product use. Separate targets address both areas.

As it moves toward its 2030 goals, other Scope 3 categories will account for a larger share of emissions. While Categories 1 and 11 are priorities, Dell monitors all Scope 3 sources for meaningful reductions.

Dell scope 3 emissions
Source: Dell

The Role of Carbon Credits in Dell’s Net Zero Goals

Dell knows some emissions will remain, even with aggressive decarbonization. The company plans to offset no more than 10% of its baseline emissions with carbon removals, following best practices from the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM).

Currently, Dell is not engaging in large-scale carbon removals, focusing instead on its near-term 2030 decarbonization efforts. As technologies improve, Dell plans to acquire high-quality credits and removals to meet its net-zero target.

Building a Just Transition

Dell insists that the move to net zero must be fair. The company commits to sourcing renewable power only from projects that do not harm underserved communities. It integrates social responsibility into its supplier code, ensuring human rights and fair labor practices.

As a founding member of the Responsible Business Alliance, Dell requires suppliers to commit to decarbonization and respect for vulnerable workers. This involvement ensures its climate ambitions reach throughout its value chain.

Climate Resilience Through Digital Access

Dell views technology access as crucial for climate resilience. Its Solar Community Hub program offers solar-powered internet and computer access to underserved communities worldwide. By promoting digital inclusion, Dell aims to impact one billion lives by 2030, broadening the benefits of the clean energy transition.

Investors Ask: What’s Next?

With its stock outperforming the market this year, investors wonder about Dell’s next steps. According to experts, the answer likely lies in two areas:

  • Earnings trajectory – Analysts will watch if Dell can sustain its AI-driven growth amid weaker PC demand and margin pressures.

  • Sustainability execution – Stakeholders want Dell to show that its booming AI server business can grow without sacrificing climate commitments.

Dell’s guidance of $105–109 billion in annual revenue and $20 billion in AI server sales reflects confidence in growth and demand. Its detailed climate strategy indicates that Dell recognizes investors and customers want progress on emissions, not just profits.

Renewable Energy Investment Reaches Record High as China Operates World’s Biggest Solar Farm

Jennifer L
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Renewable Energy Investment Reaches Record High as China Operates World’s Biggest Solar Farm

Global investment in renewable energy hit record levels in 2024–25, driven by solar, wind, and power grid upgrades. At the same time, China broke new ground with a vast solar farm the size of Chicago. Together, these developments offer a powerful sign of how the world is reshaping its energy system—though unevenly.

Global Green Energy Investment Hits New Highs

In 2024, global investment in renewable power and fuels hit a record $622.5 billion. This happened even with high interest rates and supply disruptions. Utility-scale solar accounted for 63% of the total, followed by wind at 35%, with most of the growth coming from cost drops and policy support.

This trend continued in early 2025. In the first half of the year, companies put $386 billion into new renewable projects. This is a 10% rise from last year.

renewable energy investment BNEF

However, investment in U.S. wind and solar fell by 13% compared to the same time in 2024. The decline followed political shifts that created uncertainty for developers, especially in wind energy.

Meanwhile, solar capacity surged. In 2024, the world added 582 GW of new renewable capacity—a 20% year-on-year increase—bringing total global capacity to 4,443 GW. Most of this came from solar (452 GW) and wind (114 GW), with China alone adding 61% of new solar and nearly 70% of new wind capacity.

According to the International Energy Agency, global energy investment is set to reach $3.3 trillion in 2025, with $2.2 trillion going toward renewable technologies. That’s more than double what’s being spent on fossil fuels ($1.1 trillion).

renewable energy investment 2025 IEA

America Slows, Europe Steps Into the Spotlight

While clean energy momentum grew worldwide, the U.S. green investment trend weakened. In early 2025, U.S. renewable investment fell 36% (about $20 billion), as policymakers rolled back support for wind and solar and halted new projects. These include major offshore wind farms near New England, citing vague national security concerns. The U.S. dropped out of the top five global wind markets for the first time since 2016.

US renewable investment down BNEF

In contrast, the European Union saw wind investment surge to $40 billion, up 63% year-on-year, making it a magnet for green capital amid U.S. policy uncertainty. Other regions—such as the ‘sunbelt’ countries (India, Mexico, Brazil, South Africa)—also posted growing pipelines of clean energy projects, though many remain underfunded.

A Chicago-Sized Farm Lights Up the Grid

China has taken its commitment to renewables one step further with the launch of a massive solar power facility on the Tibetan Plateau. It covers around 610 square kilometers—roughly the size of Chicago.

This project taps into vast desert sunshine. It forms part of China’s strategy to aggressively expand renewables. In the first half of 2025, China added 212 GW of solar and 51 GW of wind capacity. At the same time, carbon emissions fell by about 1%. This shows that growth and emissions decline can happen together.

China finished a 3.5 GW solar farm in Xinjiang’s desert. It will produce 6.09 billion kWh each year, enough to power 3 million homes. This project will also help avoid nearly 6.07 million tons of CO₂ annually. This single plant costs about $2.13 billion.

These projects highlight China’s push for 1,200 GW of solar and wind capacity by 2030. This goal is part of its plan to get 80% of power from non-fossil sources by 2060.

Why It Matters: Climate, Security, Speed

The cost of renewable energy has dropped sharply. Utility solar is now 84% cheaper than in 2009. Wind energy is also down 56%. This makes both cheaper than new coal or gas in almost every market. These price drops mean clean energy is now a viable, market-driven choice—not just a subsidized one.

cost of capital for renewables, wind energy

BloombergNEF reports that in 2024, $1.93 trillion went to mature clean technologies. This includes solar, storage, EVs, and grid upgrades. In contrast, only $155 billion was invested in emerging solutions like green hydrogen and CCS.

Yet, investment must rise to about $1.3 trillion annually by 2030 to stay on track with Paris goals—current levels meet only about 37% of that need.

Investment Gap and Equity

Despite growth, developing regions lag behind. Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, hosts 20% of the global population but receives less than 2% of clean energy investment. To address climate and energy equity, public finance and international cooperation must scale investment flows to underserved regions.

Global capital flows and megaprojects like China’s new solar farm show how renewable energy is shifting from vision to reality. Yet, disparities still exist. The speed of change relies on national policies, investor confidence, and smart infrastructure investments.

What’s Next: Can Investment Keep Pace with Climate Targets?

With all these developments in renewables, what could be the next trends to watch? Here are some interesting things to look out for:

  • Can U.S. policy stabilize? The U.S. retreat from wind has shaken investor confidence. If federal support returns—via tax credits or streamlined permitting—it could help reverse the slide.
  • Will emerging markets rise fast enough? Sunbelt countries and the Global South have strong solar potential, but they need financing tools like green bonds, development loans, and risk-sharing platforms to close the funding gap.
  • How fast will China scale up? China is setting global records in solar and wind. Its ability to build out grid capacity and transmission will determine whether power can flow from remote solar farms to dense urban uses.
  • Can investment match climate targets? Global clean energy must nearly triple by 2030. That means sustained growth in private and public capital, cost reductions, and regulatory support across regions.

The first half of 2025 has underscored both the promise and the complexity of the global clean energy transition. With US$386 billion invested in renewables worldwide, momentum remains strong, even as regional differences emerge.

The U.S. slowdown highlights how changes in policy and market uncertainty can hinder growth. In contrast, countries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East are speeding up their deployment efforts. 

With energy demand rising, ongoing investment will be critical for ensuring that renewables can deliver on their promise of powering economies while cutting emissions.

Apple (AAPL) Stock Sees Trading Spike on Product Buzz and Strong Earnings

Aiden Green
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0
Apple (AAPL) Stock Sees Trading Spike on Product Buzz and Strong Earnings

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) is back in the spotlight. The tech giant’s stock saw a surge in trading volume as investors weighed fresh product launch speculation alongside strong quarterly earnings. The mix of hype and solid fundamentals has fueled both retail and institutional interest, placing Apple at the center of the tech conversation.

Apple’s Trading Volume Climbs as Market Reacts

On August 27, Apple stock traded about 31.3 million shares, well above recent sessions. Market watchers point to two drivers behind the surge: rumors of upcoming product launches and the company’s strong Q3 results. Together, these factors have created momentum that has investors—big and small—leaning in.

iPhone and Services Drive Q3 Earnings Beat

Apple delivered a solid fiscal Q3 ended June 28, 2025. Revenue reached $94 billion, nearly 10 percent higher than last year and $5 billion above expectations. Earnings per share came in at $1.57, topping forecasts of $1.43, while net income was $23.4 billion.

iPhone revenue rose 13.5 percent to $44.58 billion, partly boosted by pre-tariff demand. Mac sales climbed to $8.05 billion, exceeding estimates, while iPad revenue was $6.58 billion, just under forecasts. Wearables slipped to $7.4 billion, while services grew steadily to $27.42 billion. Gross margin stood at 46.5 percent, slightly above analyst expectations.

These results reinforced investor confidence that Apple remains resilient even as the broader technology sector faces economic headwinds.

Sustainability Targets Strengthen Apple’s Story

Beyond earnings, Apple continues to push sustainability at the core of its business. In 2024, 24 percent of all product materials came from recycled or renewable sources. That included nearly all rare earth elements in magnets, cobalt in batteries, and aluminum in many cases.

The company avoided 41 million metric tons of carbon emissions last year, equal to removing nine million cars from the road. Apple has set a target of cutting emissions 75 percent by 2030 compared to 2015 levels.

AAPL Stock Price Gains and Analyst Sentiment

Apple’s stock closed at $232.56 on August 28, a 0.90 percent gain for the day. Analysts explained that over the past three months, it has returned 16.3 percent, outperforming the S&P 500’s 10.1 percent. However, its one-year return of 2.4 percent lags the SPY’s 16.8 percent, reflecting investor caution.

Volatility models suggest Apple will likely trade between $226.65 and $234.33 in the near term, with a 67 percent probability. Analysts remain largely bullish, seeing Apple as a core growth-and-stability holding.

apple stock AAPL
Source: Yahoo Finance

Product Launch Rumors Spark Anticipation

Speculation is mounting around Apple’s next big reveal. Industry reports suggest the company may unveil new iPhone models featuring advanced AI chips and upgraded cameras. New Mac models and expanded subscription services are also rumored, which could deepen Apple’s ecosystem and create new revenue streams.

Historically, product launches have triggered bursts of trading activity as the market reacts to consumer adoption. For investors, each launch is both a sales opportunity and a test of Apple’s ability to maintain its leadership in consumer technology.

Investors Position for Apple’s Next Move

Both retail and institutional investors are closely tracking Apple’s next steps. Institutions are analyzing their balance sheet, global supply chains, and margin performance, while retail traders are chasing short-term momentum and looking for pullbacks as entry points.

Apple’s size, profits, dividends, and constant innovation keep it a core pick for many investors. Whether chasing short-term gains or holding for the long run, it remains a go-to stock in a volatile tech market.

With trading volume up, strong earnings, and product buzz building, Apple (AAPL) stock is still a bellwether for the sector. The next launches will show if it can hit new highs or face fresh challenges.

General Atomics Fuels UNITY-2 Fusion Project in Canada as Global Fusion Investment Hits $2.64 Billion

Saptakee S
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0
General Atomics Fuels UNITY-2 Fusion Project in Canada as Global Fusion Investment Hits $2.64 Billion

California-based General Atomics has stepped into the fusion spotlight with a $20 million, ten-year investment in Fusion Fuel Cycles, Inc. (FFC), a Canadian joint venture between Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) and Kyoto Fusioneering. The deal marks a landmark partnership to speed up development of UNITY-2, a tritium fuel cycle test facility that could help unlock the path to commercial fusion power.

Anantha Krishnan, senior vice president of the General Atomics Energy Group, noted,

“Our collaboration with FFC is a pivotal step toward realizing the full potential of fusion energy. Developing a practical fusion power plant demands that all core systems—including the fuel cycle—operate in concert. This collaboration directly targets one of the toughest challenges and brings us closer to solving the puzzle of integrating a complete, functional fusion system.”

Scheduled to go live by mid-2026, UNITY-2—based at CNL’s Ontario campus—will be the first fully integrated facility in the world to test the deuterium-tritium (D-T) fuel cycle, a key puzzle piece for building a working fusion power plant.

Why Tritium Testing Matters?

Fusion, the same reaction that powers the sun, is often called the “holy grail” of clean energy. To work at scale, a D-T fusion power plant needs four systems:

  • A plasma confinement device, like a tokamak or stellarator
  • A blanket system to capture energy and produce new fuel
  • A fuel cycle system to handle and recycle tritium
  • A conversion system to turn heat into electricity

UNITY-2 will focus on the fuel cycle system, simulating the full process of tritium recovery, purification, and resupply. This is critical because tritium is rare, radioactive, and expensive. Mastering its safe handling will determine how practical and scalable fusion power becomes.

UNITY-2 Parameters

unity 2 fusion
Source: Fusion Fuel Cycles

CNL’s Role in Canada’s Fusion Push

The Canadian government has signaled strong support. Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry, responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, said,

“Advancing innovation in clean energy technology is a key priority for the Government of Canada. This investment by General Atomics in Fusion Fuel Cycles Inc, made through the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, will support the development of fusion energy, strengthen Canada’s competitive advantage in the green economy of the future, and create high-value jobs and economic benefits across the country.”

Canada is already moving fast on fusion. Last year, CNL hosted Fusion Day 2024 in Ottawa, where leaders unveiled the “Fusion Energy for Canada” report, a national strategy to make fusion energy part of the country’s net-zero toolkit by 2050.

cnl Canada nuclear fusion
Source: CNL

According to the report, fusion is no longer just a science experiment—it’s shifting into a stage of prototypes and demonstrations. Globally, there are now 98 fusion experiments in operation, 13 under construction, and 33 more planned. Meanwhile, the number of private companies in the space has increased to 43 firms worldwide, attracting more than $8.2 billion in funding.

The report urged Canada to seize the economic and environmental benefits by creating a fusion ecosystem supported by clear policies and government backing.

Expanding Canada’s Nuclear Programs

To make this happen, CNL announced expansions of two major programs:

  1. Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Invitation Process – now open to fusion prototypes, giving developers access to demonstration sites at Chalk River and Whiteshell Laboratories.
  2. Canadian Nuclear Research Initiative (CNRI) – broadened to support fusion R&D, offering cost-shared research opportunities to companies developing advanced reactors.

By leveraging existing nuclear infrastructure, Canada is positioning itself as a hub for both fission and fusion innovation.

General Atomics Brings Global Expertise

General Atomics (GA) is no stranger to fusion. From its base in San Diego, the company runs the DIII-D National Fusion Facility, the largest magnetic fusion research center in the United States. The lab is the only operational tokamak in the country and a cornerstone of America’s fusion roadmap.

With UNITY-2, GA will not only contribute funding but also use the facility to advance its own R&D on fusion components. The company will work with Canadian teams to develop best practices for tritium management and safety, while also laying the groundwork for a future blanket test facility—another vital step toward commercial fusion power plants.

The investment also counts toward GA’s Industrial and Technological Benefits obligations tied to Canada’s procurement of MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), underscoring how fusion and aerospace partnerships can align.

A Surge of Fusion Investment Worldwide

General Atomics’ move comes at a time when the fusion industry is attracting record levels of capital. The Fusion Industry Association’s Global Fusion Industry Report shows that companies raised $2.64 billion between July 2024 and July 2025. That’s a 178% jump from the previous year, marking the highest annual investment since 2022.

Cumulatively, private and public funding in fusion has hit $9.77 billion across 53 companies—a five-fold jump since 2021. The number of firms has more than doubled in just four years, expanding from 23 to 53.

Powering the Future – Fusion & Plasmas

GA also emphasized the Department of Energy’s Fusion Energy Sciences Advisory Committee (FESAC) had unveiled a roadmap for U.S. fusion and plasma research.

The report urges the U.S. to push forward with fusion energy development, highlighting its potential to power society while cutting emissions. It outlines a vision for affordable, practical fusion and sets the stage for building a pilot plant by the 2040s

Big Tech Joins the Race

Tech giants are fueling this momentum. In June, Google signed a 200-megawatt power purchase agreement with Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS)—the largest corporate offtake deal in fusion history. The contract covers half the output from CFS’s first ARC plant in Virginia, set for the early 2030s.

Meanwhile, Microsoft partnered with Helion Energy in 2023 for 50 megawatts of fusion power by 2028. The deal has since grown, with Helion raising a $425 million Series F round in January 2025, pushing its valuation above $5.4 billion.

Record Funding Rounds Signal Investor Confidence

Several startups have made headlines with massive funding rounds, showcasing investors confidence in fusion’s potential.

  • Pacific Fusion burst onto the scene with a $900 million Series A, one of the largest in fusion history, backed by General Catalyst and Bill Gates.
  • Marvel Fusion, based in Germany, extended its Series B to €113 million, making it Europe’s best-funded fusion company. Investors included Siemens Energy Ventures and the European Innovation Council Fund, marking the EIC’s first private fusion equity stake.

Oil and Gas Step In

Traditional energy giants are also hedging their bets on fusion. Companies like Chevron, Shell, and Equinor have invested in startups, betting that fusion could reshape the global energy system. Their involvement signals that fusion is no longer just the domain of labs and startups—it’s attracting serious interest from incumbents in oil and gas.

Despite the optimism, challenges are significant. A survey of fusion firms revealed that 83% still see funding as a top barrier. On average, companies estimate they need $700 million each to get a pilot plant online. Across the sector, that adds up to around $77 billion in required capital—eight times what’s currently committed.

Even so, 84% of companies expect to supply electricity to the grid before 2040, with over half targeting 2035. The industry has also grown its workforce, employing more than 4,600 people directly and another 9,300 in the supply chain.

A Transformative Moment for Fusion

The UNITY-2 project highlights the importance of international collaboration in building the infrastructure for commercial fusion. Canada is positioning itself as a global hub, while General Atomics strengthens its leadership role.

The wave of new funding, corporate commitments, and government backing suggests fusion is moving from dream to early commercial reality. While hurdles remain—especially around financing and scaling—confidence in the sector has never been higher.

Fusion’s promise is clear: a near-limitless source of clean, reliable energy that could play a central role in meeting global net-zero goals by 2050. With UNITY-2, Canada and General Atomics are helping bring that vision one step closer.

Tesla Rolls Out Full Self-Driving (FSD) in Australia & New Zealand: What Drivers and Investors Need to Know

Jennifer L
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Tesla Rolls Out Full Self-Driving (FSD) in Australia & New Zealand: What Drivers and Investors Need to Know

Tesla is set to launch its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology in Australia and New Zealand. This change could transform how drivers view electric and autonomous vehicles in the region. It’s another step in Tesla’s plan to grow its driver-assistance systems globally, pushing Tesla stock up.

The move has generated both excitement among drivers and renewed interest from investors. It also highlights the growing role of autonomous driving in the future of transportation.

Tesla has tested and improved FSD in many countries. However, entering new markets like Australia and New Zealand offers both chances and challenges.

What Full Self-Driving Means

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system is an advanced driver-assistance package that goes beyond the company’s Autopilot feature. Autopilot can handle highway driving, including steering and lane-keeping.

FSD, on the other hand, is meant for tougher tasks. It navigates city streets, makes turns, recognizes traffic signals, and reacts to real-world conditions.

The system does not yet allow cars to operate entirely without human oversight. Drivers must stay attentive and ready to take control at any time. However, Tesla continues to improve the technology through software updates. These updates come from data gathered by millions of Tesla vehicles. This information helps improve the system’s decision-making.

In markets like the United States, FSD has been available in beta form, with select drivers testing and providing feedback. Bringing the system to Australia and New Zealand will help Tesla learn how it works in various driving conditions, road rules, and traffic.

Wall Street Watches Every Move

Tesla’s latest trading sessions show how closely investors are watching its progress. On August 27, Tesla’s stock closed at $351.73, marking a small but steady gain of 0.02% from the prior day. During the day, shares fluctuated between $350.05 and $355.21, signaling healthy trading activity and investor interest.

This move comes after a strong trend last week when Tesla shares rose nearly 6% in one session. That was the company’s biggest one-day gain in over two months.

Tesla stock
Source: Yahoo Finance

The stock rally happened as investors felt hopeful about Tesla. They focused on the recent Full Self-Driving updates and the company’s progress in boosting production. Analysts note that the break above a key technical resistance level at $348.98 further fueled bullish momentum.

The stock’s strength shows that investors are balancing short-term ups and downs with Tesla’s long-term goals in EVs, autonomy, and clean energy. This week’s gains are modest, but they show steady confidence. The company focuses on maintaining its leadership in a competitive global market.

Why Australia and New Zealand Are Tesla’s Next Test Track

Tesla’s expansion of FSD into Australia and New Zealand signals confidence in both demand and regulatory readiness. The two countries already have a growing appetite for electric vehicles.

In 2024, EV sales in Australia surpassed 100,000 for the first time, accounting for around 9% of all new car sales. New Zealand has also seen rapid EV adoption, with government rebates and incentives playing a major role.

Australia EV sales by OEM

tesla Ev sales australia
Chart from Medium

Tesla is among the top-selling EV brands in both markets, with its Model 3 and Model Y making up the majority of sales. Introducing FSD could boost Tesla’s edge. It offers advanced technology that rivals have yet to match.

tesla EV sales in New Zealand
Source: EVDB.NZ

At the same time, regulators in both countries will play a central role. Autonomous driving systems must pass safety checks, and governments need to create rules for how such technologies are used on public roads. For Tesla, approval from regulators will be essential before the system is fully launched to drivers.

The Promise and Peril of Self-Driving Cars

Tesla promotes FSD as a step toward safer and more efficient transportation. By reducing human error—the leading cause of road accidents—autonomous systems could lower crash rates and improve traffic flow.

Battery-electric vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems can lower emissions. They make EVs more practical for long trips and daily driving. Here are some key facts about these cars: 

  • Impact of driver-assistance: Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) improve efficiency, reducing energy use by up to 10% through smoother acceleration, braking, and route optimization.

  • Long-distance practicality: With ADAS and autonomous features, EVs can extend real-world range by 5–10%, making long trips more convenient.

  • Global EV adoption: EVs avoided around 80 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions in 2023 alone.

  • Future outlook: By 2030, up to 40% of all the miles driven worldwide could be done by autonomous systems, amplifying emissions reduction potential.

Texla’s FSD system also enhances user convenience. Features such as automated lane changes, smart navigation, and traffic-aware cruise control make driving less stressful. Tesla sees a future with fleets of self-driving cars that could offer ride-hailing services. This change would turn private vehicles into money-making assets.

However, concerns remain. Safety advocates argue that the technology is not yet advanced enough to replace human judgment in all scenarios. Even small errors in object recognition or decision-making can cause accidents. Governments and regulators need to weigh the benefits of innovation against the risks of using partially autonomous systems on public roads.

Racing Rivals in the Global Autonomy Game

Tesla is not alone in the push for self-driving technology. Competitors such as Waymo, Cruise, and Chinese EV makers are investing heavily in autonomous systems. Tesla uses a vision-based method with cameras and neural networks. Others combine sensors like lidar and radar.

The global autonomous vehicle market is growing quickly. Analysts say the sector might hit over $800 billion by 2035, with up to $400 billion in revenues. This growth is driven by the need for safer transport, better logistics, and improved mobility services. Tesla’s entry into more international markets with FSD positions it to capture part of that growth.

autonomous driving revenue 2035

In Australia and New Zealand, this rollout is part of a larger trend. It focuses on using digital technology in transportation systems. Both countries are testing smart infrastructure. They are also exploring how connected vehicles can boost road safety and efficiency. Tesla’s FSD could support these efforts if the technology works reliably in real life.

Where Tesla Goes From Here

Tesla’s next steps will rely on three key factors:

  • regulatory approvals,
  • driver acceptance, and
  • improvements to the FSD system.

If the rollout in Australia and New Zealand works well, it might speed up similar launches in other areas where Tesla is strong. The company will also likely expand its FSD subscription model.

Customers may choose to pay a monthly fee instead of a one-time purchase. This could make the system more accessible and generate steady revenue for Tesla as it scales up.

For drivers, the arrival of FSD represents both excitement and uncertainty. Some will embrace the convenience and new features. Others, however, might stay cautious until the technology proves it’s safe and reliable.

Tesla’s planned launch of Full Self-Driving in Australia and New Zealand shows both the company’s ambition and the growing global interest in autonomous vehicle technology. The move creates new chances for drivers and boosts Tesla’s stock and competitive edge. As EV adoption continues to grow in both countries, the introduction of FSD could mark a significant step toward the future of transport. 

Nvidia Posts Over $46B Revenue in Q2 But Stock Slides, Balancing Record Profits with Green Goals

Jennifer L
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Nvidia Posts Over $46B Revenue in Q2 But Stock Slides, Balancing Record Profits with Green Goals

Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) delivered another standout quarter, reporting $46.7 billion in Q2 revenue, up 56% year-over-year, as demand for AI and data center products surged. The chipmaker is not only posting strong financial results but also speeding up its sustainability efforts.

It aims for 100% renewable electricity in its operations. It engages with its supply chain and develops advanced GPUs that reduce energy use. This dual focus on growth and green innovation highlights how Nvidia is shaping both the future of AI and the path to a net-zero tech industry.

Profit Surge Meets Climate Pledge

Nvidia shared its latest earnings (Q2 2026), which showed strong financial growth again. This growth comes from the ongoing demand for its AI and data center products.

  • Revenue: Approximately $46.7 billion, up 56% year-over-year. This result came in slightly above Wall Street expectations of around $46 billion.
  • Adjusted EPS: About $1.05, exceeding consensus estimates of roughly $1.01.
  • Net Income: Around $26.4 billion, up 59% year-over-year.
  • Data Center Revenue: $41.1 billion, up 56% but slightly below expectations of about $41.29 billion.
Nvidia q2 financial results
Source: Nvidia

Nvidia forecasts $54 billion in revenue for Q3, above analyst expectations. Shares fell about 3% in after-hours trading, even with the earnings beat. Investors are concerned about Nvidia’s cautious view on data center performance and risks related to China.

nvidia stock
Source: Yahoo Finance

These results show Nvidia’s strong hold in the AI and semiconductor markets. They also reveal how much investor feelings can change due to geopolitical and industry risks.

While Nvidia continues to lead in financial performance, the company is also working to align its growth with sustainability initiatives. As a leading chipmaker for data centers and AI, it recognizes the environmental issues tied to energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.

The company’s sustainability programs aim to reduce climate impact and promote innovation. The following is Nvidia’s emission reduction target.

  • Cut absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by fiscal 2030 (from FY2023).
  • Reduce Scope 3 emissions intensity per PFLOP by 75% by 2030.

Powering Up: Nvidia’s Clean Energy Progress

Nvidia has achieved 100% renewable electricity at all of its offices and data centers under direct control by the end of its fiscal year 2025. This shift cuts its Scope 2 emissions (indirect energy use) to zero based on market-based reporting.

In fiscal year 2024, Nvidia emitted 3,692,423 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent. This total includes all greenhouse gas emissions (Scopes 1, 2, and 3), highlighting the company’s environmental impact.

nvidia 2024 emissions
Source: NVIDIA

The company also achieved supplier engagement ahead of schedule. By fiscal 2025, it had worked with suppliers covering more than 80% of Scope 3 Category 1 emissions, exceeding its initial 67% goal. These efforts aim to drive science-based emission reduction practices across its supply chain.

Driving Efficiency with Smarter Technology

Beyond its clean energy commitments, Nvidia delivers sustainability through innovative and energy-efficient technology. The new Blackwell GPUs save energy by being up to 20 times more efficient for AI inference tasks than regular CPUs. 

Nvidia’s Data Processing Units (DPUs) optimize data routing. This cuts energy use by about 30%. Tests on the U.S. Department of Energy’s Perlmutter supercomputer found that Nvidia GPU systems are up to five times more energy efficient than CPU-only setups. This saves nearly 588 megawatt-hours of electricity each month. 

NVIDIA (nvda) AI blackwell
Source: NVIDIA

Technological efficiency gains are vital for cutting emissions from AI workloads, high-performance computing, and cloud infrastructure. These areas are crucial for Nvidia’s growth.

Broader ESG Strategy and Global Leadership

Nvidia combines its environmental goals with broader social and governance progress. It set new goals validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Moreover, the chipmaker’s operations follow strong environmental management:

  • Facilities in Santa Clara and Israel operate under ISO 14001 standards.
  • Over 41% of data center energy in FY25 was under ISO 50001 energy management.

Headquarters buildings in Santa Clara and Hyderabad earned LEED Gold certification. The Santa Clara location features 845 kW of installed solar capacity.

In addition, Nvidia is a top workplace, ranking #4 on Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work and #5 on Fortune’s Best Companies for 2025. The company also supports diversity and inclusion with corporate initiatives.

Real-World Impact Through Innovation and Partnerships

Nvidia leverages its technological strength and strategic partnerships to create tangible sustainability impacts. The Omniverse platform helps industries create digital twins. These are virtual replicas of real-world operations. This technology leads to major cuts in energy use and waste. 

One manufacturer using Omniverse realized savings of 120,000 kWh and 60 metric tons of CO₂ annually. Nvidia teamed up with Schneider Electric to create new data center designs. These designs can lower cooling energy use by 20% and cut construction times by 30%. 

The company works closely with policymakers to promote AI’s benefits for the climate. They want to create climate policies and rules. These should promote sustainable growth in AI and high-performance computing.

From Growth to Green Computing

Nvidia’s rapid expansion in AI computing is closely linked with its leadership in environmental sustainability. Nvidia shows how top tech companies can cut emissions. They combine clean energy success, efficient hardware, and strong supplier partnerships. 

Aligning financial success with environmental responsibility boosts the company’s competitive edge. It also sets new sustainability standards in the high-tech sector.

Looking Ahead: Balancing AI Growth and Climate Action

Nvidia’s Q2 earnings show its strong position in the semiconductor industry. It leads especially in the AI and data center markets. However, with growth comes responsibility.

Nvidia is under pressure from regulators, customers, and investors. They want to make sure its technologies support a sustainable future.

The company’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, renewable energy use, and supply chain sustainability reflects steps in the right direction. AI demand is rising fast. So, Nvidia must focus on balancing performance with environmental impact. This will stay key to their strategy.

Carbon-Finance Project Pioneer TASC Joins Carbon Markets Africa Summit as Diamond Sponsor

Jennifer L
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Carbon-Finance Project Pioneer TASC Joins Carbon Markets Africa Summit as Diamond Sponsor

Disseminated on behalf of VUKA Group.

“Projects with monumental impact at the grassroots level”

The organizers of the upcoming Carbon Markets Africa Summit have announced the diamond sponsorship of TASC, the award-winning and pioneering carbon finance project developer with a proven track record of innovative climate mitigating techniques and investing in local communities. 

Taking place in Johannesburg from 22 to 23 October, Carbon Markets Africa Summit will gather the continent’s entire carbon markets value chain, from successful early carbon market movers, climate-finance-ready projects, and regulatory bodies to global institutional development organizations and investors.

High-Impact Carbon Projects at Scale

“At its core, TASC is community-driven and we believe in delivering real-world social and environmental impact rooted in rigorous carbon science,” says Shelley Estcourt, TASC’s CEO for Africa. 

Shelley Estcourt, CEO, TASC
Image: Shelley Estcourt, CEO, TASC

She adds: “We focus on delivering high-integrity, high-impact carbon projects at scale.
Historically, we have been focused on cookstoves, but our GRASS* project is a testament to our ability to diversify quite significantly. Backed by a dedicated in-house R&D team, we are constantly innovating and exploring new methodologies, platforms, and country partnerships. We have a big focus on projects that deliver impact at scale, combined with sound carbon modelling and science.”

Grassland Restoration and Stewardship in South Africa

TASC is currently active across sub-Saharan Africa and Australia, with expansion plans into other parts of Africa and the Australasian region. Their focus is on jurisdictions with advanced Article 6 carbon market frameworks, where the enabling environment allows for long-term, scalable impact.

TASC south africa

950,000 cookstoves distributed

In 2023, TASC won the Environmental Finance Voluntary Carbon Market Award for its cookstove project. “The award and the associated finance mechanism via Standard Bank were instrumental,” says Estcourt. 

“It enabled us to repay early-stage funding and significantly expand the scope of the programme. To date, we’ve distributed clean cookstoves to over 950,000 households across rural South Africa, with benefits for both community health and carbon reductions.”

TASC cookstoves

Reversing The Effects of Climate Change

TASC’s GRASS project directly tackles the consequences of climate change by restoring degraded rangelands, boosting carbon sequestration, and building long-term resilience for rural communities. 

Escourt: “Climate change has significantly reduced the adaptive capacity of farmers, which sees them to increased drought vulnerability, erosion, bare soils, and more extreme weather impacts. GRASS helps reverse these effects by improving water-holding capacity, stabilising soil temperatures, reducing erosion, and increasing biodiversity across hundreds of thousands of hectares.” 

GRASS is also the world’s first project registered under Verra’s VM0042 methodology, enabling robust monitoring and the generation of certified carbon credits. 

Important opportunity

As the diamond sponsor of the inaugural Carbon Markets Africa Summit in Johannesburg from 22–23 October, TASC is excited to be part of what Estcourt describes as “an important opportunity to bring thought leaders, developers, policymakers, and buyers into one room. It’s a platform to hopefully accelerate Article 6 readiness, deepen understanding of what high-impact projects look like on the ground, and promote stronger collaboration across the continent.”

She continues: “For buyers, this is your chance to meet developers face-to-face, ask the hard questions, and build real trust in the market. Come and listen to the passion.” 


VUKA Group 
Carbon Markets Africa Summit is organised by VUKA Group, which has more than 20 years’ experience in serving the business community across Africa. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the official host organisation. 

Event website: About — Carbon Markets Africa

Event dates and location:
Dates:
21 October: Pre-summit day
22–23 October: Summit
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Contact details for Carbon Markets Africa Summit: 
Project Lead: Emmanuelle Nicholls 
Cell: +27 83 447 8410  
Email: emmanuelle.nicholls@wearevuka.com  

Contact details for TASC:
Commercial Director: Dr Storm Patel
Email: storm@tasc.je

PowerBank Corp. (SUUN) Transforms Into Clean Energy Leader with Ontario Battery Storage Deal

Jennifer L
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PowerBank Corp. (SUUN) Transforms Into Clean Energy Leader with Ontario Battery Storage Deal

Disseminated on behalf of PowerBank Corporation.

PowerBank Corp. (NASDAQ: SUUN) delivered one of the sharpest moves in the clean-energy space this month. Its stock has rebounded from recent lows. The rally was fueled by a mix of company-specific news and broader clean-energy policy developments.

The increase shows strong interest in PowerBank’s battery storage project in Ontario. It also reflects optimism from updated U.S. clean-energy tax guidance. This news improved sentiment in the entire sector.

Ontario Battery Deal Powers SUUN

A key driver for PowerBank is its battery storage business with its Cramahe, Ontario project known as SFF-06, commencing installation of the battery energy storage system (BESS). The 4.99 megawatt (MW) BESS is backed by a 22-year capacity contract that ensures long-term income once operational. 

The contract is priced at $1,221 per megawatt per business day, translating into predictable and stable revenues over two decades.

The project also benefits from a $25.8 million loan from the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), which covers financing at favorable terms for two projects, including SFF-06. PowerBank also plans to secure the 30% Canada Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit. This will boost the project’s financial profile.

With this move, PowerBank is no longer seen solely as a solar player. Instead, the company is positioning itself as a diversified clean energy infrastructure firm with long-term recurring revenues. For a micro-cap stock often valued on speculation, this shift towards diversified revenue streams is a major milestone.

Analysts Turn Bullish on PowerBank’s Future

Analysts covering PowerBank are turning more bullish after the Ontario news.

PowerBank has a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of about 17x. This is potentially low when you consider its growth potential. If the company executes its pipeline of projects beyond Ontario, the stock has the potential to re-rate higher. For now, the Ontario project provides a strong foundation for growth.

Clean Energy Tax Policy Tailwinds Lift the Sector

PowerBank is based in Canada, but the company gained from a boost in optimism in the clean energy sector. This came after the U.S. Treasury Department released amended clean energy tax credit rules.

The new rules made it clear that renewable projects can still get a 30% federal tax credit. This applies as long as physical construction starts. They also keep the traditional four-year “safe harbor” provision. This eased concerns that stricter guidance could have limited access to credits.

Following the announcement, major U.S. solar stocks like Sunrun and First Solar jumped nearly 9%, while the MAC Global Solar Energy Index rose 4%. PowerBank itself has a strategy to accelerate the development or sale of projects to ensure that as many projects as possible can qualify for the tax credits.

However, the overall positive vibe for clean energy companies boosted SUUN. Investor confidence in renewable themes appears strong, especially as cross-border opportunities for financing and project expansion remain attractive.

Momentum Meets Volatility in SUUN Stock

PowerBank’s sharp stock increase also reflects technical momentum. The stock is now well above its 200-day moving average, a sign that bullish sentiment could hold. However, traders are watching closely as technical indicators show overbought conditions.

Despite this, the overall momentum trend remains upward. If PowerBank keeps sharing project updates and benefits from optimism in the sector, the stock might hold higher trading ranges.

Battery Storage: The Next Big Clean-Energy Play

PowerBank’s continued development of battery storage projects mirrors a broader industry trend. As renewable energy penetration grows, storage is becoming essential for grid reliability. In Ontario, battery storage supports the province’s transition away from natural gas while balancing variable renewable inputs like wind and solar.

The global energy storage market is set for another record year in 2025. Even with policy shifts and uncertainty in the United States and China—the two biggest markets—developers are moving ahead with larger utility-scale projects. 

Since 2024, huge gigawatt-hour systems have begun construction or been commissioned. This is happening not just in the U.S. and China, but also in Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Australia, the Netherlands, Chile, Canada, and the UK.

global energy storage market 2030 BNEF

BloombergNEF predicts storage additions will increase by 35% in 2025. This will total 94 gigawatts (247 gigawatt-hours), excluding pumped hydro. After this surge, the sector is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.7% through 2035. By then, annual installations could hit 220 gigawatts (972 gigawatt-hours), underscoring the market’s long-term growth potential.

By securing a long-term contract, PowerBank demonstrates it can compete in this high-growth sector. Its ability to secure financing and government incentives also highlights the company’s ongoing shift from speculative development to structured infrastructure investment.

Investor Watchlist: What’s Next for PowerBank

For investors, the Ontario battery storage development is significant because it provides both credibility and visibility into future cash flows. This makes SUUN less of a pure momentum trade and more of a potential long-term clean energy infrastructure play. Below is the company’s project pipeline, including battery storage at 162 MWh.

Powerbank project pipeline

Going forward, investors will be watching:

  • Execution of the Ontario project, including construction timelines and cash flow ramp-up.
  • Expansion opportunities into other Canadian provinces or U.S. markets.
  • Financing partnerships, particularly whether PowerBank can continue to secure favorable loans and tax incentives.

The supportive backdrop of clean energy policy in both Canada and the U.S. provides further encouragement. If PowerBank matches its Ontario success, it could change from a speculative micro-cap to a credible small-cap clean energy growth story.

The Ontario project strengthens PowerBank’s revenue outlook and aligns the company with global clean energy trends. For investors ready to handle ups and downs, SUUN offers high risk and high reward. It’s a chance in the rapidly expanding clean energy infrastructure market.

There are several risks associated with the development of the Project. The development of any project is subject to required permits, the continued availability of third-party financing arrangements for the Company, the risks associated with the construction of a battery energy storage project and the degradation of battery storage capacity over time based on the number of discharge cycles. In addition, governments may revise, reduce or eliminate incentives and policy support schemes for battery energy storage, which could result in future projects no longer being economic. Please refer to “Forward-Looking Statements” for additional discussion of the assumptions and risk factors associated with the projects and statements made in  the SolarBank press release dated dated August 6, 2025 entitled: “PowerBank (SUUN) Begins Installation of First Battery Energy Storage System in Ontario“.

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