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] The aggregation of distributed energy resources including solar, batteries, EVs, and smart devices into Virtual Power Plants is a key trend, enabled by regulatory advancements such as FERC Order 2222. Straits Research
• [New] Powering 15% of Canada's electricity, nuclear energy is positioned as a competitive advantage and an opportunity for economic growth, international partnerships, trade diversification, and energy sovereignty. Torys LLP
• [New] The CPUC, along with the CARB and Energy Commission, will support transportation electrification by directing electrical corporations to file applications for programs and investments to accelerate widespread transportation electrification. California Energy Commission
• [New] The Australian Energy Regulator will be required to consider every application, with state or territory governments obliged to prove a non-renewables option is cheaper. The Guardian
• [New] South Korea is expected to remain a major exporter of premium lithium-ion battery cells through the forecast period, supported by technological innovation, established automotive partnerships, and increasing demand for high-energy-density battery systems. Persistence Market Research
• [New] The European Union's Energy Efficiency Directive revision mandates 11.7% energy consumption reduction by 2030, further accelerating lightweight material adoption. Persistence Market Research
• [New] The International Energy Agency expects global oil supply to remain below near-normal levels until early 2027. investing.com
• [New] The UAE has been rapidly expanding on its green energy ambitions, with plans to generate most of its electricity through renewables by 2050. Khaleej Times
• [New] The renewable energy storage segment is projected to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 7.2% from 2026 to 2032. 6wresearch
• [New] Sodium-ion batteries will enter mass production in the fourth quarter, and has signed the world's largest 60 GWh energy storage sodium battery order. Ebak Battery
• [New] Alongside targets for electrification, energy efficiency and the circular economy, Turkey set a goal of halving growth in global waste by 2035. Lowy Institute
• [New] Semi-transparent solar cells that could be added to windows to efficiently harvest energy from indoor light as well as the sun have been developed by an international team led by UCL researchers. University College London

Last updated: 06 September 2026