Global energy demand grew significantly in 2024, rising by 2.2%, nearly double the average growth rate of the past decade, according to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) latest Global Energy Review. The increase was primarily driven by a sharp rise in electricity consumption, with renewables and natural gas meeting most of the additional demand.

This week’s energy updates highlight key shifts across global markets. Emerging economies are positioning themselves as major players in clean technology, while questions arise about the future of U.S. renewable growth under the new administration.

Kemi Badenoch has launched the Conservative Party’s Policy Renewal Programme, placing energy and net zero at the heart of the discussion. In a speech outlining her stance, she argued that current policies have led to high costs and unrealistic targets, without a clear economic plan to deliver net zero.

The global energy landscape continues to evolve, with notable developments in clean technology trade, solar energy affordability, and the financial performance of green energy stocks. Meanwhile, China reflects on a decade of power sector reforms, and controversy surrounds COP30 preparations in Brazil.

From clean energy manufacturing dominance to shifts in how economies measure natural resources, this week’s top energy stories highlight major global trends. China’s grip on renewable energy supply chains continues to expand, while electric buses gain momentum across Europe. Meanwhile, a new UN-approved economic framework will recognize wind and waves as assets for the first time, potentially reshaping GDP calculations.

The way UK households pay for energy could be set for a significant shift. Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator, has proposed a rule requiring all suppliers to offer tariffs with low or zero standing charges. Rather than a fixed daily fee, these costs would be incorporated into the price consumers pay per unit of energy used.

This week’s top energy stories explore the rapid transformation of global energy systems. Grid expansion faces supply chain bottlenecks, emerging markets position themselves as future clean energy hubs, and solar canopies take efficiency to the next level. Plus, a look at China's evolving tech-industrial ecosystems and a decade of global EV sales.

Ukraine and the United States have reached an agreement over access to Ukraine’s vast natural resources. The draft deal outlines joint development of Ukraine’s resources, including oil, gas, and critical minerals. Ukraine possesses a diverse range of mineral resources, making it a key supplier of various essential materials. Its reserves include iron ore, manganese, titanium, lithium, graphite, and uranium, all of which contribute to industries such as steel production, renewable energy, and advanced technologies.

From major clean energy investments to shifts in fuel technologies, this week’s top energy stories highlight key trends shaping the global energy landscape. Governments continue to pour trillions into clean energy, German cities are taking bold steps to phase out gas networks, and PHEV sales across Europe may have hit their peak. Meanwhile, Honda is making major strides in hydrogen fuel cell technology, and a new ranking reveals the world’s most valuable natural resource reserves.

From the booming trade in clean technologies to record-breaking renewable energy in California, this week’s top energy stories highlight key shifts in global energy trends. Germany remains firm on its nuclear stance, China continues to dominate EV battery production, and a new graphic showcases the world’s top vehicle manufacturers.

The energy landscape is evolving fast, with key developments shaping the future of power generation and consumption. This week, we look at how small modular reactors (SMRs) could revolutionize nuclear energy, the record-breaking speed of solar expansion, and why renewables are set to become even more cost-competitive.

Chris Wright and Doug Burgum have been confirmed as Secretary of Energy and Secretary of the Interior, respectively. Their appointments signal a strong push for domestic energy expansion and regulatory reform under the Trump administration.