Author: sHq_LoGiNz

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Florida continues to experience the coldest air in the state since 2018, Duke Energy is asking all customers to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 5 to 9 a.m. EST on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

This is due to extremely cold temperatures that are driving unusually high demand for electricity across the southeast. It is meant to help protect the grid and keep electricity flowing for as many customers as possible.

Below are ways customers can lower their energy use:

• Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. The closer you match your thermostat to outdoor temperatures, the less energy you use.
• Avoid using appliances such as washing machines, dryers and dishwashers between 5 and 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
• Turn off any unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins and lights.
• Electric vehicles owners: charge midday when demand is lower.

“We know power is an essential part of our customers’ everyday lives, and we recognize that reducing electricity usage isn’t an easy ask,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We appreciate our customers’ cooperation and understanding as we work to continue providing safe, reliable service for our more than 2 million customers during this cold spell.”

Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. 

Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. The company’s electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. 

Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. 

More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. 

Contact: Ana Gibbs
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Cell: 813.928.7263

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-urges-florida-customers-to-reduce-electric-usage-302675776.html

SOURCE Duke Energy

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Florida continues to experience the coldest air in the state since 2018, Duke Energy is asking all customers to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 5 to 9 a.m. EST on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

This is due to extremely cold temperatures that are driving unusually high demand for electricity across the southeast. It is meant to help protect the grid and keep electricity flowing for as many customers as possible.

Below are ways customers can lower their energy use:

• Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. The closer you match your thermostat to outdoor temperatures, the less energy you use.
• Avoid using appliances such as washing machines, dryers and dishwashers between 5 and 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
• Turn off any unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins and lights.
• Electric vehicles owners: charge midday when demand is lower.

“We know power is an essential part of our customers’ everyday lives, and we recognize that reducing electricity usage isn’t an easy ask,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We appreciate our customers’ cooperation and understanding as we work to continue providing safe, reliable service for our more than 2 million customers during this cold spell.”

Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. 

Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. The company’s electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. 

Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. 

More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. 

Contact: Ana Gibbs
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Cell: 813.928.7263

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-urges-florida-customers-to-reduce-electric-usage-302675776.html

SOURCE Duke Energy

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Florida continues to experience the coldest air in the state since 2018, Duke Energy is asking all customers to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 5 to 9 a.m. EST on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

This is due to extremely cold temperatures that are driving unusually high demand for electricity across the southeast. It is meant to help protect the grid and keep electricity flowing for as many customers as possible.

Below are ways customers can lower their energy use:

• Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. The closer you match your thermostat to outdoor temperatures, the less energy you use.
• Avoid using appliances such as washing machines, dryers and dishwashers between 5 and 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
• Turn off any unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins and lights.
• Electric vehicles owners: charge midday when demand is lower.

“We know power is an essential part of our customers’ everyday lives, and we recognize that reducing electricity usage isn’t an easy ask,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We appreciate our customers’ cooperation and understanding as we work to continue providing safe, reliable service for our more than 2 million customers during this cold spell.”

Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. 

Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. The company’s electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. 

Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. 

More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. 

Contact: Ana Gibbs
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Cell: 813.928.7263

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-urges-florida-customers-to-reduce-electric-usage-302675776.html

SOURCE Duke Energy

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Florida continues to experience the coldest air in the state since 2018, Duke Energy is asking all customers to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 5 to 9 a.m. EST on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

This is due to extremely cold temperatures that are driving unusually high demand for electricity across the southeast. It is meant to help protect the grid and keep electricity flowing for as many customers as possible.

Below are ways customers can lower their energy use:

• Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting. The closer you match your thermostat to outdoor temperatures, the less energy you use.
• Avoid using appliances such as washing machines, dryers and dishwashers between 5 and 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
• Turn off any unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins and lights.
• Electric vehicles owners: charge midday when demand is lower.

“We know power is an essential part of our customers’ everyday lives, and we recognize that reducing electricity usage isn’t an easy ask,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We appreciate our customers’ cooperation and understanding as we work to continue providing safe, reliable service for our more than 2 million customers during this cold spell.”

Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. 

Duke Energy 
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. The company’s electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. 

Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage. 

More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition. 

Contact: Ana Gibbs
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
Cell: 813.928.7263

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/duke-energy-urges-florida-customers-to-reduce-electric-usage-302675776.html

SOURCE Duke Energy

OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – As Black History Month is celebrated nationwide, the Royal Canadian Mint’s 2026 $20 Fine Silver Coin – Commemorating Black History: Adinkra Symbols pays homage to the rich ancestral heritage of Ghana’s Akan people. Their visual iconography expressing values, proverbs, and historical wisdom has strongly influenced West African culture and holds profound meaning for many Black Canadians. Symbols representing respect, peace, and community merge with Canadian icons on an inspiring 99.99% pure silver collector coin available as of today.

“It is important to the Royal Canadian Mint that our coins help tell a more complete story of Canada by touching on diverse themes that highlight the experiences and cultural heritage of the many people who call Canada home,” said Simon Kamel, Interim President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. “As the Mint continues to support the celebration of Black History Month through specially designed collector coins, we are delighted to celebrate the West African roots of many Black Canadians by showcasing the art and spirituality of Adinkra symbols.”

The coin’s reverse design by Canadian artist Kwame Delfish features three concentric rings of traditional Adinkra motifs encircling a central maple leaf representing Canada.  The innermost ring consists of a repeating vertical pairing of two Mpatapo symbols, the peace knot of reconciliation. The second ring features a repeating sequence of Adinkra symbols representing the divinity of Mother Earth, unity in diversity, and the Mekyia Wo symbol of respect and greeting. The outermost ring is anchored at the cardinal points by the maple leaf atop two Mpatapo symbols, echoing the innermost layer, while each quadrant displays symbols representing unity and human relations. The obverse features a maple leaf pattern and the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

“As an artist of Caribbean descent, I am deeply connected to the Adinkra symbols and the ancestral wisdom they carry from West Africa. Each symbol speaks to values of strength, unity, and purpose that continue to guide our communities today,” said coin designer Kwame Delfish. “Initially, I envisioned this design in a square arrangement to pay homage to the Adinkra cloth from which these symbols derived. However, as the design evolved, it became clear the circular arrangement would mirror the continuity of culture, connection, and collective resilience.”

Limited to a mintage of 5,000 coins worldwide, the 2026 $20 Fine Silver Coin – Commemorating Black History: Adinkra Symbols retails for $199.95. This new collectible may be ordered by contacting the Mint at 1-800-267–1871 in Canada, 1-800-268–6468 in the US, or at www.mint.ca. It will also be available at the Royal Canadian Mint’s boutiques in Ottawa and Winnipeg, at participating Canada Post outlets, and through the Mint’s global network of dealers and distributors.

Images of this coin are available here.

About the Royal Canadian Mint
The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada’s circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, producing award-winning collector coins, market-leading bullion products, as well as Canada’s prestigious military and civilian honours. As an established London and COMEX Good Delivery refiner, the Mint also offers a full spectrum of best-in-class gold and silver refining services. As an organization that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations. 

For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca.  Follow the Mint on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-royal-canadian-mints-commemorating-black-history-silver-coin-series-celebrates-the-artistry-and-cultural-significance-of-west-african-adinkra-symbols-302675174.html

SOURCE Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Twenty-five years ago, Church of the Highlands launched its first service with a simple foundation: prayer, faith, and a calling to help people grow in their relationship with God. What began in a borrowed auditorium has since become a movement impacting communities across Alabama, Georgia, and beyond—yet church leaders say the heart of the mission has never changed.

Leading Today and Building for the Future

After years of intentional preparation and prayerful planning, Mark Pettus stepped into the role of Lead Pastor in February 2025. Chris Hodges continues to serve as Founding Pastor—providing spiritual leadership and counsel for the church’s future.

The transition reflects Highlands’ longstanding commitment to leadership development, clarity, and sustainability—ensuring the mission remains strong for generations to come.

This vision for the future is already taking shape. Today, Church of the Highlands launches its newest campus in Prattville, Alabama. Lead Pastor Mark Pettus also announced the church’s next campus launch scheduled for this spring in Peachtree City, Georgia.

Alongside these milestones, the church continues to invest in long-term community impact, with construction underway for a permanent Dream Center location in Montgomery, Alabama, and a new permanent campus building under construction in Oxford, Alabama.

As the church reflects on its past, its leadership remains focused on the present and the future. Pettus emphasized that the 25-year milestone is not a conclusion, but a launching point.

“This anniversary is about celebrating the last 25 years of God’s faithfulness, recognizing what He is doing right now, and responding with faith for what’s ahead,” he said. “We’re committed to helping every person take their next step with God, raising up the next generation of leaders, and continuing to serve our communities with excellence and compassion.”

A significant part of that future includes developing leaders and investing in the next generation. Through Highlands College, the church has trained nearly 1,400 students who now serve in ministry roles around the country and the world. The church also continues to support church-planting efforts and leadership development initiatives that extend its impact far beyond its own campuses.

From Humble Beginnings to Widespread Impact

From its first service in a high school auditorium to a multi-campus presence today, Church of the Highlands has grown while remaining focused on its mission to help people Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference. The church now serves 26 campuses across Alabama and Georgia. Over the past 25 years, more than 390,000 individuals have made decisions to follow Jesus, thousands have found community through small groups, and over 21,800 volunteers, known as the Dream Team, are currently serving faithfully to create welcoming, life-giving environments.

“The best part of Highlands has always been the people,” said Pettus. “Behind every number is a name, behind every name is a story, and behind every story is a life that matters deeply to God – and to us.”

Impact Beyond the Church Walls

Beyond weekly services, Church of the Highlands has consistently prioritized serving communities in tangible ways. Through initiatives like its annual Serve Day, correctional ministry outreach, Dream Centers, and partnerships with local organizations, the church mobilizes thousands of volunteers each year to meet real needs. Highlands currently ministers weekly in 29 correctional facilities, offering hope and spiritual support, while Serve Day alone engages over 19,000 volunteers annually in projects that strengthen neighborhoods, schools, and families.

Founded on February 4, 2001, Church of the Highlands was established on a commitment to prayer—a commitment that remains central 25 years later. Before the church met for its first Sunday, the launch team prayed for 21 days to set the foundation. Each year, the church continues this legacy by beginning with 21 Days of Prayer, reaffirming its belief that spiritual growth, leadership, and community impact flow from seeking God first.

“When Church of the Highlands began, we had no way of knowing what it would become,” said Chris Hodges, Founding Pastor of Church of the Highlands. “We simply trusted God, focused on serving people, and took one step at a time. Twenty-five years later, that same heart for God and our community continues to guide our church.”

25 Years—and Counting

As Church of the Highlands marks 25 years of ministry, its leaders are clear that the story is still being written.

With a foundation built on prayer, a commitment to people, and a vision anchored in faith, Church of the Highlands moves forward confident that its greatest impact is still to come.

About Church of the Highlands:
Church of the Highlands is a life-giving local church with 26 campuses across Alabama and Georgia. With a mission to help people Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference, Highlands exists to transform lives and communities through faith and service.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/25-years-and-counting-church-of-the-highlands-marks-a-milestone-of-impact-and-looks-ahead-to-the-future-302675652.html

SOURCE Church of the Highlands

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Twenty-five years ago, Church of the Highlands launched its first service with a simple foundation: prayer, faith, and a calling to help people grow in their relationship with God. What began in a borrowed auditorium has since become a movement impacting communities across Alabama, Georgia, and beyond—yet church leaders say the heart of the mission has never changed.

Leading Today and Building for the Future

After years of intentional preparation and prayerful planning, Mark Pettus stepped into the role of Lead Pastor in February 2025. Chris Hodges continues to serve as Founding Pastor—providing spiritual leadership and counsel for the church’s future.

The transition reflects Highlands’ longstanding commitment to leadership development, clarity, and sustainability—ensuring the mission remains strong for generations to come.

This vision for the future is already taking shape. Today, Church of the Highlands launches its newest campus in Prattville, Alabama. Lead Pastor Mark Pettus also announced the church’s next campus launch scheduled for this spring in Peachtree City, Georgia.

Alongside these milestones, the church continues to invest in long-term community impact, with construction underway for a permanent Dream Center location in Montgomery, Alabama, and a new permanent campus building under construction in Oxford, Alabama.

As the church reflects on its past, its leadership remains focused on the present and the future. Pettus emphasized that the 25-year milestone is not a conclusion, but a launching point.

“This anniversary is about celebrating the last 25 years of God’s faithfulness, recognizing what He is doing right now, and responding with faith for what’s ahead,” he said. “We’re committed to helping every person take their next step with God, raising up the next generation of leaders, and continuing to serve our communities with excellence and compassion.”

A significant part of that future includes developing leaders and investing in the next generation. Through Highlands College, the church has trained nearly 1,400 students who now serve in ministry roles around the country and the world. The church also continues to support church-planting efforts and leadership development initiatives that extend its impact far beyond its own campuses.

From Humble Beginnings to Widespread Impact

From its first service in a high school auditorium to a multi-campus presence today, Church of the Highlands has grown while remaining focused on its mission to help people Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference. The church now serves 26 campuses across Alabama and Georgia. Over the past 25 years, more than 390,000 individuals have made decisions to follow Jesus, thousands have found community through small groups, and over 21,800 volunteers, known as the Dream Team, are currently serving faithfully to create welcoming, life-giving environments.

“The best part of Highlands has always been the people,” said Pettus. “Behind every number is a name, behind every name is a story, and behind every story is a life that matters deeply to God – and to us.”

Impact Beyond the Church Walls

Beyond weekly services, Church of the Highlands has consistently prioritized serving communities in tangible ways. Through initiatives like its annual Serve Day, correctional ministry outreach, Dream Centers, and partnerships with local organizations, the church mobilizes thousands of volunteers each year to meet real needs. Highlands currently ministers weekly in 29 correctional facilities, offering hope and spiritual support, while Serve Day alone engages over 19,000 volunteers annually in projects that strengthen neighborhoods, schools, and families.

Founded on February 4, 2001, Church of the Highlands was established on a commitment to prayer—a commitment that remains central 25 years later. Before the church met for its first Sunday, the launch team prayed for 21 days to set the foundation. Each year, the church continues this legacy by beginning with 21 Days of Prayer, reaffirming its belief that spiritual growth, leadership, and community impact flow from seeking God first.

“When Church of the Highlands began, we had no way of knowing what it would become,” said Chris Hodges, Founding Pastor of Church of the Highlands. “We simply trusted God, focused on serving people, and took one step at a time. Twenty-five years later, that same heart for God and our community continues to guide our church.”

25 Years—and Counting

As Church of the Highlands marks 25 years of ministry, its leaders are clear that the story is still being written.

With a foundation built on prayer, a commitment to people, and a vision anchored in faith, Church of the Highlands moves forward confident that its greatest impact is still to come.

About Church of the Highlands:
Church of the Highlands is a life-giving local church with 26 campuses across Alabama and Georgia. With a mission to help people Know God, Find Freedom, Discover Purpose, and Make a Difference, Highlands exists to transform lives and communities through faith and service.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/25-years-and-counting-church-of-the-highlands-marks-a-milestone-of-impact-and-looks-ahead-to-the-future-302675652.html

SOURCE Church of the Highlands

TEMPE, Ariz., Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dutch Bros is inviting customers to have their cake and drink it too with new decadent flavors. The Pink Velvet Mocha and Luvstruck Rebel are this season’s romantic drink selections now available at all 1,081+ Dutch Bros locations, while supplies last!

• The Pink Velvet Mocha is a flirty treat with a pink velvet inspired flavor complete with pink velvet frosting Soft Top®. Try it as an iced mocha, mocha Freeze or shake!
• The Luvstruck Rebel is a romance of blackberry and vanilla mixed with our exclusive Dutch Bros Rebel® energy drink topped with a layer of pink velvet frosting Soft Top®. Best enjoyed blended as a Rebel energy drink or lemonade!

To share even more love this month, Dutch Bros will give back to the communities it serves by hosting its annual Dutch Luv® Day of Giving. On February 13, the Dutch Bros Foundation® will donate $1 for every drink sold to local organizations focused on addressing hunger and food insecurity.

“This year’s Dutch Luv season brings two new special flavors and a chance to pour extra love into our communities with any drink purchase during our Dutch Luv® Day of Giving,” said Tana Davila, chief marketing officer at Dutch Bros. “Dutch Bros is committed to supporting the neighborhoods we serve. We’re thankful for the opportunity to partner with the Dutch Bros Foundation®, our incredible crews and our loyal customers who make this giveback so meaningful each year.”

Dutch Luv® Day of Giving partners are selected by local operators to make the biggest impact in their communities. This year’s beneficiaries include Central California Food Bank, San Antonio Food Bank, Utah Food Bank, Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona and more. 

About Dutch Bros Coffee
Dutch Bros Coffee® is a fun-loving, mind-blowing drive-thru coffee company dedicated to making a massive difference one cup at a time. Dutch Bros was founded in Grants Pass, Oregon in 1992 and is now sharing its vibrant culture and fully customizable drinks at 1,081+ locations and counting across 24 states. Dutch Bros serves a wide variety of unique, handcrafted beverages such as its exclusive Dutch Bros Rebel® energy drink, specialty coffee, nitrogen-infused cold brew, teas, lemonades, sodas and more.

Dutch Bros is wholeheartedly focused on radiating kindness and sharing the Dutch Luv®. In addition to its mission of speed, quality and service, the Dutch Bros Foundation® is passionate about giving back to the communities it serves. Through local giving and annual nation-wide initiatives, the Dutch Bros Foundation makes impactful contributions to causes across the country.

To learn more about Dutch Bros, visit www.dutchbros.com, follow Dutch Bros Coffee on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok, and download the Dutch Bros app to order ahead, earn points and score rewards!

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dutch-bros-launches-decadent-drinks-to-celebrate-dutch-luv-302673178.html

SOURCE Dutch Bros Coffee

New Net Zero Speaks episode explains why electrification is “unstoppable,” and what policy sequencing means in practice.

NEW YORK, Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Planet Classroom Network, in association with the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement, announces a new episode of Net Zero Speaks featuring Gernot Wagner , climate economist at Columbia Business School, Faculty Director of the Climate Knowledge Initiative, and author of six books including Climate Shock and Geoengineering: The Gamble. In conversation with host Ana Hanhausen, Wagner offers a clear assessment of what’s getting worse, what’s accelerating faster than expected, and what credible net zero requires.

Gernot Wagner: “The power sector problem has been solved… The electrification of that is unstoppable. It’s not if, it’s when.” 

Wagner points to rapid deployment dynamics—from Texas solar growth to the reality that clean technologies like solar panels and batteries have become commodities—while underscoring that policy still matters, especially around permitting reform, grid connection, and enabling infrastructure.

Planet Classroom’s Co-Founder and CEO C. M. (Cathy) Rubin notes: “Gernot’s message is practical and urgent: ‘follow the money.’ If net zero is credible, you’ll see real investment plans—not just offsets—and the public should be able to track that transparency.”

• Reality check: “Things are a lot worse than most of us realize,” but electrification is accelerating faster than predicted.
• Texas vs. California solar: Rapid growth driven by economics, not politics.
• Policy sequencing: “First… get the price down of the good stuff… [then] price the bad stuff.”
• Delhi to Detroit example: India’s coal tax raises revenue that can subsidize what should scale.
• Carbon pricing: Valuable, but not the only lever; permitting, grid buildout, and software matter.
• Corporate net zero: “Putting your money where your mouth is” and avoiding overreliance on offsets.
• Solar geoengineering: “Let’s do the research… Should we be deploying it today? No.” Governance will be imperfect.

🎬 Watch Net Zero Speaks with Gernot Wagner on the Planet Classroom YouTube channel

About the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement
The Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement mobilizes youth worldwide to take collective climate action aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), empowering young people to implement innovative solutions and drive systemic change.

About the Planet Classroom Network
The Planet Classroom Network, organized by CMRubinWorld, connects artists, scientists, and innovators to entertain, educate, and empower youth. Supported by 35+ global cultural organizations, Planet Classroom curates original content for Net Zero Speaks, Problem Solvers, and AI for a Better World.

www.cmrubinworld.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/columbia-economist-gernot-wagner-on-planet-classroom-follow-the-money-302675702.html

SOURCE Planet Classroom Network

New Net Zero Speaks episode explains why electrification is “unstoppable,” and what policy sequencing means in practice.

NEW YORK, Feb. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Planet Classroom Network, in association with the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement, announces a new episode of Net Zero Speaks featuring Gernot Wagner , climate economist at Columbia Business School, Faculty Director of the Climate Knowledge Initiative, and author of six books including Climate Shock and Geoengineering: The Gamble. In conversation with host Ana Hanhausen, Wagner offers a clear assessment of what’s getting worse, what’s accelerating faster than expected, and what credible net zero requires.

Gernot Wagner: “The power sector problem has been solved… The electrification of that is unstoppable. It’s not if, it’s when.” 

Wagner points to rapid deployment dynamics—from Texas solar growth to the reality that clean technologies like solar panels and batteries have become commodities—while underscoring that policy still matters, especially around permitting reform, grid connection, and enabling infrastructure.

Planet Classroom’s Co-Founder and CEO C. M. (Cathy) Rubin notes: “Gernot’s message is practical and urgent: ‘follow the money.’ If net zero is credible, you’ll see real investment plans—not just offsets—and the public should be able to track that transparency.”

• Reality check: “Things are a lot worse than most of us realize,” but electrification is accelerating faster than predicted.
• Texas vs. California solar: Rapid growth driven by economics, not politics.
• Policy sequencing: “First… get the price down of the good stuff… [then] price the bad stuff.”
• Delhi to Detroit example: India’s coal tax raises revenue that can subsidize what should scale.
• Carbon pricing: Valuable, but not the only lever; permitting, grid buildout, and software matter.
• Corporate net zero: “Putting your money where your mouth is” and avoiding overreliance on offsets.
• Solar geoengineering: “Let’s do the research… Should we be deploying it today? No.” Governance will be imperfect.

🎬 Watch Net Zero Speaks with Gernot Wagner on the Planet Classroom YouTube channel

About the Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement
The Protect Our Planet (POP) Movement mobilizes youth worldwide to take collective climate action aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), empowering young people to implement innovative solutions and drive systemic change.

About the Planet Classroom Network
The Planet Classroom Network, organized by CMRubinWorld, connects artists, scientists, and innovators to entertain, educate, and empower youth. Supported by 35+ global cultural organizations, Planet Classroom curates original content for Net Zero Speaks, Problem Solvers, and AI for a Better World.

www.cmrubinworld.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/columbia-economist-gernot-wagner-on-planet-classroom-follow-the-money-302675702.html

SOURCE Planet Classroom Network