U.S. ENERGY
Firefighters Battle Blaze at Texas Decommissioned Power Plant
Firefighters in southeastern Texas battled a massive blaze Sunday at a decommissioned power plant in Texas City, Galveston County, sending large plumes of smoke into the air.
The fire broke out around 2:30 a.m., drawing 50 to 60 firefighters from multiple departments who worked throughout the day to contain it. Local officials urged residents to avoid the smoke and remain indoors until air conditions improved.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but no major injuries were reported as of Sunday evening.
New Report Highlights Renewable Project Tax Credit Surge
A new analysis found that 76% of U.S. solar projects and 86% of wind projects expected to begin operation by 2028 will qualify for federal tax credits by starting construction before July 4, 2026.
The finding underscores how clean energy developers are accelerating schedules to meet eligibility deadlines under the Inflation Reduction Act, positioning renewable projects for a strong buildout through the decade.
Trump Administration Lifts Drilling Limits in Alaska
The Trump administration has rescinded Biden-era restrictions on oil and gas drilling in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, reopening vast tracts of federal land for exploration.
The move allows ConocoPhillips to expand operations beyond its Willow project, sparking backlash from environmental and Indigenous groups concerned about wildlife habitat disruption and climate impacts.
Texas Oil Well Explosion Spurs Review of Regulatory Reforms
Documents released this week show that Texas regulatory reforms enacted after a 100-foot-high oil well geyser explosion would not have prevented the incident.
The event, which sent crude oil and debris into the air for hours, has renewed scrutiny of state oversight and enforcement procedures governing well control, safety inspections, and operator accountability.
TVA Expands Gas Fleet and Eyes Advanced Nuclear
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced it is “in the middle of a historic gas build,” with 2.8 GW of new natural gas generation currently under construction.
The federal utility also plans to add up to 1.5 GW of battery storage and four small modular reactors (SMRs) in the coming years as part of a long-term energy diversification strategy.
New York Delays All-Electric Construction Rule
Governor Kathy Hochul agreed to delay the enforcement of New York’s all-electric construction law, pending the outcome of a court challenge.
The law would prohibit gas-powered heating and cooking systems in new residential and commercial buildings beginning in 2025, but developers argued it violates state preemption laws and could increase housing costs.
WORLD ENERGY
Global Fossil Fuel Generation Drops as Renewables Grow
The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that global electricity generation from fossil fuels fell 2.2% in August, while renewables, mainly solar, grew 4.3% during the same month.
The data reflects a continuing shift toward clean energy, though overall demand growth in developing economies continues to challenge emissions targets.
Ukraine Energy Sector Hit by Corruption Scandal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to overhaul state-owned energy companies following a $100 million corruption scandal that has rocked the country’s energy sector.
Investigators say the embezzlement involved senior officials and contractors during wartime operations, further complicating efforts to stabilize Ukraine’s energy grid amid Russian attacks.
Serbia Resists Pressure Over Russian Energy Shares
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić said he intends to avoid the confiscation of Russian shares in the country’s oil company NIS, despite U.S. sanctions pressure.
Vučić said Serbia seeks a diplomatic solution that protects its energy supply and prevents disruption to refining and fuel distribution systems.
Iran Defends Tanker Seizure in the Gulf of Oman
Tehran confirmed its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) forces seized the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker Talara off the UAE coast near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials said the action was a lawful enforcement measure, while U.S. and European governments condemned it as another act of maritime aggression threatening global energy trade.
Malaysia Expands Clean Energy Capacity
Malaysia announced plans to diversify its clean energy mix, focusing on solar, hydro, and energy efficiency programs to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Officials said the initiative will ensure energy stability, economic competitiveness, and a healthier environment for residents, advancing the country’s long-term climate and energy independence goals.