U.S. power demand hit new records in late July; EIA projects elevated sales growth in 2025–2026
The U.S. set two new peak electricity demand records in the last week of July amid extreme heat, underscoring tightening grid conditions and the need for flexible capacity and infrastructure upgrades[1]. EIA’s latest outlook flags faster retail electricity sales growth of 2.2% in both 2025 and 2026, driven largely by load expansion in ERCOT and PJM, with ERCOT demand expected to grow about 11% across 2025–2026 and PJM around 4%[1].
Germany’s top court clarifies cost-sharing for grid connections of battery storage, reshaping project economics
Germany’s Federal Court of Justice ruled that grid operators can levy construction subsidies (Baukostenzuschüsse) for battery storage under the Energy Industry Act procedures, removing prior uncertainty and allowing operators to reverse contingency provisions and incorporate these charges into financing models[3]. However, storage facilities ≥100 MW remain excluded under KraftNAV, and questions persist about advance payments, leaving some regulatory risk for large-scale projects[3].
Australia’s NSW funds hydrogen pipeline safety research to accelerate H2 infrastructure
The New South Wales Government awarded a A$650,000 grant to the University of Wollongong to lead research on hydrogen pipeline failure modes and develop risk and design tools, aiming to reduce infrastructure costs and improve regulation for large-scale H2 transport[5]. UOW is one of only five institutions globally with capability for this class of hydrogen pipeline testing, positioning NSW to advance safe hydrogen deployment[5].
U.S. Interior tightens permitting for wind and solar; added approvals and fees raise development hurdles
The Department of the Interior now requires the Interior Secretary’s personal sign-off for all wind and solar permits and has eliminated right‑of‑way and capacity fee discounts, signaling stricter federal oversight of renewables siting and costs[6]. A 45‑day review is underway to identify and remove any preferential treatment for renewables relative to dispatchable generation, which could affect project timelines and economics[6].