U.S. Grid Warnings, Fossil-Free Steel & Germany’s Nuclear Debate
This week’s energy stories explore key trends shaping our future—from the growing strain on U.S. electricity infrastructure to Germany’s nuclear reckoning and breakthroughs in fossil-free steel. Plus, Japan’s NYK and partners plan a floating offshore data center powered entirely by renewables.
🌍 Six Big Ideas to Help Avoid a U.S. Electricity Crisis
A new report from Stanford highlights six major solutions to meet America’s rising electricity demand, which is expected to increase by 15–20% in the next decade and double by 2050. The ideas come from a February meeting of over 80 energy experts, offering a roadmap to avoid future power shortfalls.
⚡ U.S. Data Center Energy use may Quadruple by 2030
Driven by the AI boom and increased digitalization, U.S. data centers could consume four times more electricity by 2030. BGO spotlights the scale of this energy challenge as demand surges in the decade ahead.
🛠️ The World’s First Fossil-free Steel
A major climate milestone: the first-ever batch of steel made without burning fossil fuels has been produced. With steel among the largest industrial emitters, this breakthrough offers a powerful tool to decarbonize construction and manufacturing.
☢️ Nuclear Fight Reignites in Germany
A high-stakes political battle is brewing in Germany over the country’s nuclear future. Media coverage and backroom debates in Berlin are intensifying, with decisions expected soon that could reshape the nation’s long-standing anti-nuclear stance.
🧠 NYK to Build Renewable-powered Floating Data Center
Japanese shipping giant NYK and partners have signed an MoU to develop a floating offshore data center powered entirely by renewable energy. The project aims to improve energy resilience with a sustainable facility based on a floating platform, designed to also act as a disaster countermeasure.