Industry

Electrification shifts energy security from oil to solar and batteries

As electrification technologies such as solar power and electric vehicles spread, the yardstick for global energy security is changing, an analysis said. The focus is shifting from stable imports of fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas to securing generation equipment and power grids and diversifying supply chains. Energy strategist Michael Barnard said electrification is reshaping energy dependence among countries, with examples cited from Pakistan, Europe and Africa.

AI & Enterprise

California enacts 7 bills that could reshape AI data centre rules, tightening responsibility for power and water costs

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed seven bills to tighten rules on how AI data centres use electricity and water and how related costs are shared. The package focuses on clearer disclosure of impacts on local grids and water supplies and aims to prevent shifting costs to other customers. Measures require reporting to regulators, revise rate structures and set rules for water approvals and infrastructure upgrades. The bills also direct regulators to update interconnection and tariff rules by 2028.