Month: July 2025

Peak Energy’s solution is the first battery energy storage system to remove nearly all moving parts with new patent-pending technology, driving significant cost-savings

DENVER, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Peak Energy, a U.S.-based company developing low-cost, giga-scale energy storage technology for the grid, today announced the launch and shipment of its sodium-ion battery energy storage system (ESS) that delivers a patent-pending passive cooling design to dramatically reduce lifetime energy costs. With this milestone, Peak Energy removes the components implicated in the vast majority of battery storage system fires analyzed by independent third party reports. Cost-competitive with state of the industry products while offering dramatically lower operating and maintenance costs, Peak Energy’s product is the first ever fully passive megawatt-hour scale battery storage system, the largest sodium-ion phosphate pyrophosphate (NFPP) battery system in the world, and the first grid-scale sodium-ion storage solution ever deployed to the U.S. electric grid. Deploying the system in a shared pilot with nine leading utility and independent power producer (IPP) customers this summer, Peak Energy is fast-tracking its promise to onshore battery manufacturing.

With a design that eliminates all moving parts, including active cooling and ventilation components, Peak Energy’s NFPP grid storage battery architecture completely eliminates the most common failure modes in typical battery storage systems, dramatically increasing reliability and reducing operating and maintenance costs. Peak Energy’s NFPP grid storage system marks a landmark shift in America’s burgeoning energy storage business by capitalizing on the advantages of sodium-ion batteries to build a more reliable and lower-cost solution. Sodium-ion is poised to win the storage market as its chemistry allows operations at a wide range of hot and cold temperatures without requiring auxiliary cooling systems. This innovation is a first-of-its-kind development in grid-scale energy storage as incumbent lithium-ion technologies require active cooling and ventilation systems to preserve cell life and prevent fires. Passive cooling allows Peak Energy to offer massive lifetime cost-savings compared to current market-leading systems by eliminating several of the most-likely-to-break components in today’s grid storage products.

Peak’s grid-scale battery storage solution arrives at a decisive moment for the evolution of the American energy industry. Recent changes to federal policies have elevated the urgency to develop domestic energy supply chains and manufacturing capabilities. These policy forces, coupled with skyrocketing energy demand in the U.S., are proving battery storage to be essential for improving grid resilience and reducing energy costs. Incumbent solutions are complex, pose significant fire risks, and are more costly to build, operate, and maintain for grid applications. In addition to its performance benefits, sodium-ion presents the United States’ best opportunity to lead in battery chemistries due to the country’s natural advantage in raw materials. The United States holds the world’s largest reserves of soda ash, the mineral precursor to sodium-ion, and the full raw material supply chain for sodium-ion can be sourced domestically or from allied nations.

“We see energy storage not only as an economic imperative, but also as a national security priority. Time is of the essence if the U.S. wants to take ownership and maintain control of its energy future,” said Landon Mossburg, CEO and Co-Founder at Peak Energy. “We are committed to onshoring the manufacturing of this critical industry, and this launch proves our ability to execute quickly on our vision to establish the U.S. as a global leader in battery manufacturing.”

Peak Energy has conducted extensive performance testing of its ESS, where the results indicate record-level cost-savings and reliability for the industry. This includes:

• At least $1 million in annual operational cost savings per gigawatt hour installed, representing up to 90% reduction in auxiliary power use
• Approximately 20% in lifetime cost savings vs. LFP in an average deployment
• 33% reduction in battery degradation over a 20-year project lifespan

“This isn’t just another product launch – it’s a breakthrough in energy storage,” said Paul Durkee, VP of Engineering at Peak Energy. “We’ve taken a very stable chemistry and invested its benefits back into our passive cooling architecture. The system is dead-simple with no moving parts, no planned maintenance and negligible aux loads. It’s the lowest total-cost grid storage technology to be deployed anywhere in the world. I’m incredibly proud of the creativity and grit our team has shown in bringing our vision to life.”

Peak Energy’s pilot marks a significant first step in commercializing sodium-ion battery storage in the United States and unlocks nearly 1GWh of future commercial contracts currently under negotiation. Following the pilot, Peak Energy will deploy several hundred megawatt hours of commercial-scale storage products to serve multiple IPP and hyperscaler partners over the next two years, with further announcements anticipated this fall. Peak Energy is on track to fulfill its commitment to develop grid scale battery supply chains, with its first U.S. cell factory under development and planned to start production in 2026. This news comes just one year after Peak raised its $55M Series A and less than two years since launching from stealth in 2023.

To learn more about Peak’s revolutionary battery storage solutions, visit www.peakenergy.com.

About Peak Energy
Founded in 2023, Peak Energy is a U.S.-based company developing low-cost, giga-scale energy storage technology to secure America’s energy economy. Founded by industry veterans from Tesla, Enovix and Apple, the company is on a mission to drastically lower the cost of energy storage and establish the U.S. as a global leader in the battery market. For more information, visit www.peakenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Inkhouse for Peak Energy
peak-energy@inkhouse.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/peak-energy-delivers-first-grid-scale-sodium-ion-battery-storage-system-in-the-us-302519228.html

SOURCE Peak Energy Technologies

HERSHEY, Pa., July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Milton Hershey School (MHS) students enrolled in a college-level summer course have a unique opportunity to explore leadership concepts while earning credits for future academic pursuits. More than 20 high school students entering their junior and senior years at MHS are spending six weeks taking an intensive course: Theories of Leadership.

The course, offered to students through a partnership with the University of Pittsburgh College in High School Program, aims to empower students to develop as intentional, authentic, and resilient leaders by cultivating self-awareness, a growth mindset, and the skills needed to inspire, empower, and adapt with integrity. It emphasizes that leadership is learned through effort, reflection, and purposeful action rather than innate talent. Under the guidance of John Karavage, a high school social studies teacher at MHS, students engage with college-level readings, deep reflection exercises, and opportunities to connect the material to their own lives and leadership journeys. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, embrace discomfort as part of the learning process, and see challenges as essential opportunities for growth. 

“The structure of the course emphasizes that true leadership development comes from facing challenges head-on, reflecting honestly, and continually striving to improve rather than avoiding difficulties or giving up when setbacks occur,” said Karavage. “We have had some great discussions on unlocking leadership potential by building grit, service, and growth within teams. We have explored concepts like servant and sacrificial leadership, overcoming challenges, and guiding teams through adversity.”

Along with their in-person class time and assignments, students participated in special off-campus activities, such as attending a Leadership Program at the Lincoln Leadership Institute in Gettysburg, taking a tour of the White House and the U.S. Capitol, and holding a roundtable discussion with author Dr. Angela Duckworth to discuss one of the required course texts, “Grit: The Power and Passion of Perseverance.” 

Karavage’s hope was for this to be not just a class, but a transformative experience designed to empower students to grow into the strongest versions of themselves.

For senior Eden Newman, Karavage’s hope has become a reality. Newman was interested in the course because she has always felt naturally drawn to leadership roles, including working in Student Government and the school’s admissions office.

“The course meant more to me than I had expected. The environment was positive and gave me the freedom to grow and shift away from a fixed mindset to consider all perspectives,” said Newman. “I never knew about finding my ‘why’ or what I was passionate about, but after taking this course, I feel ready to make my mark on the world and become the leader I’ve hoped to be.” 

“What’s been most powerful is watching them go beyond just completing assignments,” said Karavage. “They’ve been engaging deeply with the material, embracing feedback, and even challenging their own assumptions about leadership. The growth I’ve seen has been incredible. They’re locking in on key ideas, pushing themselves, and working hard to apply what they’re learning to become more thoughtful, intentional leaders.”

Enrolled students can earn three credits from the University of Pittsburgh once they successfully complete the course.

ABOUT MILTON HERSHEY SCHOOL
Milton Hershey School is one of the world’s best private schools, where qualifying students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade live on campus and receive an exceptional educational experience—with all costs covered. For more information, visit mhskids.org.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/college-course-helps-milton-hershey-school-students-earn-credits-and-develop-thoughtful-leadership-skills-302519163.html

SOURCE Milton Hershey School

Woodforest among three presenting sponsors of the “Band Together Texas” benefit concert

THE WOODLANDS, Texas, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Woodforest National Bank is honored to serve as one of just three presenting sponsors of the Band Together Texas benefit concert, raising critical support for communities devastated by the July 4th floods. The star‑studded concert will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Moody Center in Austin, with all proceeds benefiting the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and the Central Texas Community Foundation.

The celebrity lineup and special presenters include:

• Performing artists:
  Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum, Kelly Clarkson, Cody Johnson, Ronnie Dunn, Ryan Bingham, Wade Bowen, Dylan Gossett, Jack Ingram, Lyle Lovett, Lukas Nelson, Jon Randall, and the Randy Rogers Band.
• Special appearances:
  Actors Matthew McConaughey and Dennis Quaid, sports legends Roger Clemens and Vince Young, along with other University of Texas alums such as Colt McCoy, Mack Brown, Emmanuel Acho, and host/presenter Chris Harrison.

The devastating floods that began on July 4, 2025, claimed more than 130 lives and left many missing across the Hill Country. Homes, livelihoods, and communities were profoundly damaged. Band Together Texas unites musicians, celebrities, and civic leaders to drive relief and long‑term recovery through solidarity, storytelling, and song.

“Community is at the heart of everything we do. Woodforest National Bank is honored to be among the presenting sponsors that will help turn the stage into a beacon of healing, hope, and community,” said Robert E. Marling Jr., Chairman and CEO of Woodforest National Bank and President of the Woodforest Charitable Foundation. “As a bank headquartered in Texas, we are deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Supporting Band Together Texas is one of the many ways we live out our conviction that in times of crisis, Texans take care of Texans.”

Woodforest National Bank joins two other presenting sponsors: the Dell Foundation and the Peace, Love, & Happiness Foundation.

About Woodforest National Bank
Founded in 1980 and based in The Woodlands, Texas, Woodforest National Bank operates more than 214 branches in Texas and nearly 770 branches across 17 states, making it one of the largest community banks in its footprint. As the founder of the Woodforest Charitable Foundation, Woodforest National Bank is committed to supporting economic empowerment, crisis relief, and long‑term resilience across its markets by investing contributions to benefit health, housing, hunger relief, youth development, and disaster recovery — with over $41 million granted to nonprofit partners to date. For more information about Woodforest National Bank, please visit www.woodforest.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/woodforest-national-bank-supports-flood-relief-for-texas-hill-country-302519142.html

SOURCE Woodforest National Bank

AUSTIN, TEXAS, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Low Cost Pet Vax®, a leading provider of affordable pet health services across Texas, is now providing affordable pet vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, heartworm testing, and more in Austin, TX.

Low Cost Pet Vax clinics operate every weekend, partnering with local Austin businesses to provide convenient, walk-in access to essential pet vaccinations and preventive care for both dogs and cats.

With the rising cost of veterinary services and a significant number of pets in Texas remaining unvaccinated, Low Cost Pet Vax aims to bridge the gap by making preventive care accessible and affordable for all pet owners.

“We use the same quality vaccinations as a full-service provider,” explained Theodore Fausak, Low Cost Pet Vax’s Austin operations manager, “but without charging extra fees for an exam or appointment, keeping prices affordable for pet owners.”

Low Cost Pet Vax services include core vaccinations for rabies, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, bordetella, and feline leukemia, as well as heartworm testing and prevention, flea/tick prevention, deworming, and microchipping. All veterinary services are administered by trained veterinary technicians and licensed veterinarians.

“We want to give every pet in Austin the opportunity to receive needed life-saving vaccinations and preventative care without financial barriers,” said Dr. Rod Munsell, founder of Low Cost Pet Vax. “We’re excited to bring our fast, friendly, and affordable services to the Austin community.”

Key features of the Austin pet vaccination clinics include:

No appointments required: Pet owners simply show up during their closest location’s hours, with digital check-in available for a quick and convenient experience.

Quick service: Low Cost Pet Vax clinics administer services quickly, with minimal wait times compared to other providers.

Weekend locations: Clinics are held every Saturday and Sunday at rotating locations throughout Austin and surrounding areas.

Lower cost: Individual vaccinations and bundled packages are offered at some of the lowest prices in Texas. Rabies vaccinations are only $10.

Licensed veterinarians on site: All services are supervised by experienced veterinary professionals.

Upcoming Austin clinic locations are hosted at local businesses including Advance Auto, O’Reilly’s, AutoZone, and Randalls, among others. Full schedules and locations can be found on the Low Cost Pet Vax website.

For more information about services, pricing, or upcoming clinic dates, visit LowCostPetVax.com.

Contact: Abigail Fausak, Head of Marketing
Phone: (682) 262-0134 │ Email: abigail@lowcostpetvax.com

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/affordable-pet-healthcare-provider-low-cost-pet-vax-launches-pet-vaccination-clinics-in-austin-tx-302519084.html

SOURCE Low Cost Pet Vax

Benefit concert to take place August 22 at Warehouse 215, with proceeds supporting children facing serious illnesses

PHOENIX, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NakedMD announced today that it is partnering with acclaimed DJ and producer Deorro, along with MERZ Aesthetics, for a benefit concert supporting the Hope for Henry Foundation. The event will take place Friday, August 22, 2025, at Warehouse 215 in Phoenix, Arizona.

The special event, produced in collaboration with Relentless Beats, will feature an exclusive performance by Deorro, known for his high-energy electronic dance music and chart-topping hits. The evening promises to deliver an unforgettable experience combining world-class entertainment with philanthropic impact. Proceeds from ticket sales and on-site contributions will directly benefit Hope for Henry, a national nonprofit organization that helps children facing serious health challenges.

“NakedMD is committed to giving back to the communities we serve,” said a NakedMD spokesperson. “Partnering with Deorro, MERZ Aesthetics, and Relentless Beats allows us to create a memorable experience while supporting a meaningful cause that aligns with our mission of caring for others.”

The collaborative effort demonstrates the power of cross-industry partnerships in addressing community needs. MERZ Aesthetics, a global leader in medical aesthetics, will contribute a substantial corporate donation in support of the foundation’s mission, adding to funds raised during the event. This partnership highlights the shared commitment among healthcare and entertainment industry leaders to make a positive impact on children’s lives.

Hope for Henry has reached more than 100,000 children nationwide since its founding, delivering innovative programs that bring comfort, fun, and support to children undergoing medical treatment. The foundation’s initiatives include hospital entertainment programs, therapeutic activities, and family support services designed to help young patients and their families navigate challenging medical journeys with hope and resilience.

To learn more about Hope for Henry or make a direct donation to support their mission, visit https://hopeforhenry.org/

About NakedMD: NakedMD is a leading provider of medical aesthetic services in the U.S., offering advanced cosmetic treatments in a patient-centered environment. The company is expanding nationally, delivering high-quality care with a focus on safety, results, and patient satisfaction. For more information, visit https://www.nakedmd.com/

Media Contact: Jessel Renolayan
PR Manager
NakedMD
media@nakedmd.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nakedmd-deorro-and-merz-aesthetics-team-up-for-hope-for-henry-charity-event-in-phoenix-302519062.html

SOURCE NakedMD, Inc

Survey highlights sourcing, innovation, and growth strategies shaping the sector in 2025

WASHINGTON, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new report surveying more than 150 U.S. cleantech executives reveals that innovation barriers — including skill shortages, funding constraints, and lack of best practices — are limiting sector growth. According to the whitepaper The New Cleantech Economy: Import Strategies Key to U.S. Cleantech Innovation, 31% of respondents cite lack of innovation best practices and skills as key challenges, while 67% plan to increase imports in 2025 to overcome these hurdles.

The study, commissioned by Trade Estonia and the Estonian Cleantech Association, finds that nearly half (47%) of U.S. cleantech firms source more than half of their components internationally. Despite supply chain uncertainties and evolving trade policies, 67% of companies plan to increase imports in 2025 to maintain competitiveness and accelerate innovation.

However, the survey also uncovers significant hurdles holding back growth. Approximately 31% of respondents cited a lack of innovation best practices and skills as key obstacles, while nearly a quarter reported constraints related to R&D budgets and strategic planning.

“As the cleantech sector evolves rapidly, accessing global innovation and reliable partners is critical,” said Kädi Ristkok, CEO of the Estonian Cleantech Association. “Estonia’s advanced cleantech ecosystem, digital infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability position it as an ideal collaborator for U.S. firms seeking to overcome these barriers.”

Among U.S. companies sourcing from Europe, over half (51%) also work with Estonian suppliers, leveraging the country’s strengths in energy storage, grid modernization, and smart building technologies. Estonian firms such as Skeleton Technologies, Gridraven, and UpCatalyst offer cutting-edge solutions aligned with U.S. priorities around decarbonization, resilience, and cost efficiency.

Key findings from the report include:

• 50% of U.S. cleantech firms experienced revenue growth in the past year, with 66% expecting further expansion in the year ahead.
• 45% of cleantech companies rely on government contracts, but private-sector innovation and global sourcing remain crucial drivers.
• Supply chain security and regulatory alignment continue to shape sourcing decisions amid evolving geopolitical and economic conditions.

“Estonia’s clean technology companies are built for agility and innovation,” added Silve Parviainen, Export Advisor for Trade Estonia. “They’re ready to partner with U.S. companies in accelerating sustainability, achieving energy security, and bringing new technologies to market.”

The report underscores the importance of strategic international partnerships in navigating supply chain disruptions and accelerating sustainable innovation in the cleantech sector.

About Estonia
Estonia is a global leader in digital innovation. Known for its e-governance, the world’s first e-residency program, and boasting the highest number of startups per capita, Estonia offers a hassle-free and competitive business environment for global businesses. With a focus on transparency, efficiency, and forward-thinking solutions, Estonia is a trusted partner in business and diplomacy. Whether for work, investment, or exploration, Estonia provides a unique blend of innovation, opportunity, and quality of life. Situated in Northern Europe, Estonia consistently ranks high internationally for liberal democracy, political stability, economic freedom, and low corruption. Expert at adapting through innovation, Estonia is ready to tackle seemingly impossible challenges with the promise of a better future.

About Estonian Cleantech Association
The Estonian Cleantech Association connects and promotes Estonian companies that offer sustainable, science-driven innovations in energy, materials, and infrastructure.

About the Study:
The CleanTech Industries Study was commissioned by Trade Estonia and conducted by The MPI Group, an independent research firm. Fielded in December 2024, it surveyed 150 U.S.-based cleantech executives across sectors.

CONTACT:
Tara Mulloy
tara.mulloy@miltton.com 

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

The following files are available for download:

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/survey-reveals-barriers-in-us-cleantech-innovation-estonia-emerges-as-strategic-partner-302518994.html

SOURCE Miltton