Global Scans · Affordable and Clean Energy · Weekly Summary

In September 2015, 193 world leaders agreed to 17 Global Goals for Sustainable Development. If these Goals are completed, it would mean an end to extreme poverty, inequality and climate change by 2030.
Goal 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.

• [New] Renewables such as solar and wind could supply 75% of global energy demand if we invest on a large scale. valorinternational
• [New] The noticeable rise in energy inflation to 2.2% in 2028 is seen to be driven mainly by the implementation of the EU Fit for 55 package, particularly the new ETS2 for the heating of buildings and for transport fuels, which is estimated to contribute 1.9 percentage points to energy inflation in 2028. European Central Bank
• [New] An expected reduction in electricity prices in Germany, driven by lower network fees, is seen as contributing to the decline in energy prices seen in early 2026. European Central Bank
• [New] The sharp decline in energy inflation during the first quarter of 2026 is largely attributed to a pronounced downward base effect in the transport fuels component. European Central Bank
• [New] Energy inflation is projected to remain subdued until late 2027, before rising notably in 2028 with the introduction of ETS2. European Central Bank
• [New] Excluding the impact of ETS2, headline inflation would remain slightly below target in 2028, as energy inflation dynamics excluding ETS2 remain very low by historical standards. European Central Bank
• [New] As the world's energy needs evolve, natural gas price forecasting will remain a critical tool for navigating the ever-changing landscape of global energy markets. Domestic Drilling and Operating
• [New] Globally, natural gas is expected to remain a vital part of the energy mix for decades, accounting for almost a quarter of energy consumption in many countries. Domestic Drilling and Operating
• [New] Energy executives who participated in the Dallas Fed survey expect Henry Hub prices to reach USD 4.50/MMBtu five years from now. Domestic Drilling and Operating
• [New] In 2026, intelligent process electrification and energy technologies will become a strategic priority for manufacturers seeking to cut emissions and control energy costs. The Manufacturer
• [New] New measures aimed at creating a more predictable, affordable energy environment will be key to attracting and retaining global investment in 2026 and beyond. The Manufacturer
• [New] As global demand for natural gas continues to rise, particularly in emerging markets and regions transitioning to cleaner energy sources, the need for robust infrastructure is expected to grow. Domestic Drilling and Operating
• [New] The renewable energy sector already employs over 12 million people globally, with projections of 40 million by 2030. ATKAPP
• [New] 2026 represents a critical investment window as AI-driven energy demand intensifies, with SMRs uniquely positioned to provide reliable baseload power while reducing fossil fuel reliance. Ainvest
• [New] For investors, 2026 represents a critical window to capitalize on SMR development, driven by urgent capacity gaps, policy tailwinds, and a rapidly evolving energy security imperative. Ainvest
• [New] Deal activity in 2026 will be shaped by rapid expansion of renewable energy and storage, the growing role of digital infrastructure such as AI and data centers, and focused initiatives to strengthen supply chain resilience and grid reliability. Power Technology
• [New] Scientists in Australia have developed new ultra-thin filters that can separate valuable chemicals from liquid mixtures fast and efficiently to make medicines, dyes and other products, which could help industries cut waste, save energy and lower costs. Azonano
• [New] Actions by both Russia and Ukraine could impact energy exports and grain shipments, with potential implications for negotiations and regional stability. Crisis24
• [New] Proceeds from an IPO could help SpaceX fund new technologies like space-based data centers that would not need as much energy-consuming cooling as Earth-based centers. BNN Bloomberg
• [New] The Global Stocktake endorsed tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, doubling energy efficiency improvements, and transitioning away from fossil fuels. AZoCleantech
• A landmark clean-energy project advances at the Kruger Kamloops Pulp Mill, where an Indigenous-led partnership plans to build one of British Columbia's first industrial-scale green hydrogen plants. Paper Advance
• The International Energy Agency mentioned that by 2020, the world's solar capacity hit over 1,000 gigawatts, and they are saying it could go past 3,000 gigawatts by 2025. 2025 Top Solar Energy Trends You Need to Know for a Sus
• As emerging countries around the world, such as Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh, increasingly participate in cross-border electricity trade to diversify energy sources and meet climate targets, the demand for flexible and dependable renewable energy from small hydro projects is expected to rise. The National Law Review

Last updated: 21 December 2025