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The shift to cleaner energy sources is vital for reaching climate targets and securing our global energy future. To ensure a smooth transition, businesses, governments and other stakeholder agencies should consider infrastructure needs, policy changes, and fair access for all.

This guide explores the key drivers, emerging trends, and potential impacts of the energy transition, along with insights on how organizations can contribute to a more sustainable future.

What Is Energy Transition? 

Energy transition refers to the global shift from fossil fuel-based energy systems to low-carbon and renewable alternatives. This transformation is essential to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting international climate targets, including limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Learn more: Energy Transition Explained: Why and How the World Is Making a Shift 

The impact of the changing energy mix on infrastructure

The energy mix is shifting as renewables like wind, solar, and hydrogen gain ground. However, fully realizing this transition requires massive infrastructure adaptations. 

Power grids, for example, need to be upgraded to handle decentralized and variable renewable energy sources. Additionally, energy storage solutions will need to be expanded to manage supply fluctuations. Finally, existing infrastructure needs to be retrofitted to accommodate low-carbon alternatives such as hydrogen and carbon capture technologies.

When will fossil fuel demand peak? 

The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that global demand for fossil fuels will peak before 2030, driven by rapid growth in renewables, the rise of electric vehicles, and improving energy efficiency. This forecast signals an accelerated shift away from coal, oil, and natural gas—faster than many previously expected. 

However, while demand may decline, strategic planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition, prevent economic shocks, and support workers and communities reliant on fossil fuel industries.

Key Drivers of the Energy Transition

The energy transition is driven by several significant factors, including the critical need to combat climate change and the economic benefits of renewable energy sources. Here’s an overview of the primary drivers moving us toward a greener future.

Combatting climate change 

Reducing carbon emissions is at the core of energy transition efforts. Rising global temperatures and increasing climate-related disasters are the most widely felt outcome of climate change, stressing the critical importance of cutting greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the shift to clean energy sources. Governments, businesses, and investors are working toward aligning strategies with net-zero targets to mitigate long-term climate risks, although shifting political winds risk derailing progress.

Learn more: Safeguarding Businesses from Hurricanes and Wildland Fires 

Economic factors 

The economic case for clean energy is stronger than ever. The cost of solar and wind power is falling, making renewables more competitive in the broader energy market. Meanwhile, oil and gas markets remain volatile, with geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions leading to unpredictable price swings. Many industries are turning to renewables not just for sustainability, but for cost stability and energy security.

Technological innovations 

Innovation is accelerating the transition by making clean energy more efficient and scalable. Key breakthroughs include:

• Energy storage improvements: Advancements in battery technology, such as lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, are making renewable energy more reliable.
• Smart grids: Digitalized grids optimize electricity distribution, reduce waste, and enhance energy efficiency.
• Virtual power plants (VPPs): Aggregating distributed energy resources, such as rooftop solar panels and EV chargers, helps balance supply and demand in real time.

The Role of Government and Industry in the Energy Transition 

Governments around the world are implementing initiatives that encourage the adoption of clean energy while setting long-term sustainability targets, and public policy and regulatory frameworks play a crucial role in shaping the energy transition. National and international climate commitments, including those under the Paris Agreement, are driving policy shifts toward decarbonization by setting emissions reduction targets.

These regulations also incentivize the business sector to participate in the energy transition. Subsidies, tax credits, and grants for solar, wind, and storage technologies are making clean energy adoption more feasible. Cap-and-trade programs, carbon taxes, and mandatory emissions disclosures are pushing industries to adopt more sustainable energy practices. 

While progress varies by region, the momentum behind clean energy policies is undeniable. Companies that proactively align with these regulations will be better positioned for long-term resilience.

Learn more: 

• How Business Leaders Are Getting Ready for a Net-Zero World
• Understanding the Crucial Role of Climate Scenario Analysis in Business Strategy
• 5 Steps to be Regulatory Ready: Where Businesses Should Begin 

The Economic and Social Impact of Energy Transition 

While there are numerous economic and social advantages to energy transition, it is vital that those driving this change take into account how shifting energy infrastructure and workforce needs impacts livelihoods and access to energy.

Capital flow into renewables 

Global investment in clean energy has surged in recent years, with the global marketplace investing twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels.

Major financial institutions, corporations, and governments are channeling capital into wind, solar, hydrogen, and energy storage technologies, with nearly $2 trillion in direct investment since 2020. This shift reflects growing confidence in the long-term viability of renewables and increasing pressure from investors to align with climate goals.

Public and private funding is also expanding to support grid modernization, electric vehicle infrastructure, and emerging clean technologies. However, while investment is accelerating, securing financing for developing economies remains a challenge, requiring targeted policies and international collaboration.

Workforce shifts in a changing energy economy

The transition to clean energy is reshaping the global workforce. While fossil fuel jobs are expected to decline, renewable energy sectors are growing rapidly, creating new employment opportunities in manufacturing, construction, and maintenance.

Sectors seeing significant job expansion include:

• Solar and wind industries, which require large-scale installation and maintenance work.
• Battery production and energy storage, driven by the demand for grid stability and electric vehicles.
• Energy efficiency sectors, such as retrofitting buildings and smart grid deployment.

Despite the growth in clean energy jobs, workforce training and reskilling initiatives are critical to ensuring a just transition for workers moving out of traditional energy sectors.

Energy equity and accessibility 

The energy transition presents an opportunity to address energy poverty by expanding access to affordable, reliable electricity in underserved regions. According to the European Commission, “Energy poverty occurs when a household must reduce its energy consumption to a degree that negatively impacts the inhabitants’ health and wellbeing.”

Decentralized renewable energy solutions, such as off-grid solar and microgrids, are already transforming energy access in remote and developing communities.

However, ensuring a fair transition means addressing disparities in:

• Infrastructure development, as many regions still lack the resources for large-scale renewable deployment.
• Energy affordability, ensuring that rising energy costs do not disproportionately impact lower-income populations.
• Policy incentives, which must support both industrialized and developing nations in scaling clean energy adoption.

Learn more: Just Energy Transition: The US Perspective 

Overcoming barriers to transition 

Despite its benefits, the energy transition comes with short-term economic and infrastructure challenges. Key barriers include:

• High upfront costs: While renewables are cost-effective over time, initial investment remains a hurdle. Government incentives and private financing mechanisms play a crucial role in bridging the gap.
• Grid adaptation: Aging infrastructure must be upgraded to accommodate decentralized and intermittent energy sources. Smart grid technologies and energy storage solutions are helping address this challenge.
• Policy and regulatory uncertainty: Inconsistent policies can slow progress. Clear, long-term regulatory frameworks are needed to provide stability for investors and businesses.

While these challenges are significant, the momentum behind the energy transition continues to grow. With strategic planning, investment, and innovation, the shift to a sustainable energy future can drive economic growth, enhance energy security, and create a more equitable global energy system.

The Future of Energy Transition 

The future of energy transition holds immense potential. Emerging technologies like AI-driven energy optimization, grid modernization, and advanced storage solutions are transforming the sector, making renewable adoption more efficient and scalable.

Ensuring equitable access to clean energy for all communities is essential, and this demands fair infrastructure development and expanded reach in underserved areas. Businesses and governments play a pivotal role in this endeavor. By adopting sustainable practices and investing in innovative clean energy solutions, they can drive the transition to a cleaner and more resilient energy future for everyone, leaving no one behind.

Ready to lead the energy transition with confidence? Discover how Antea Group’s Energy Management Consulting can help.

AMSTERDAM, HONG KONG, OAKLAND, Calif., April 22, 2025 /3BL/ – With a thematic focus on consumer goods supply chain decarbonization, the new season of Cascale’s “Source of Good” podcast reflects the nonprofit organization’s commitment to combat climate change. Kicking off with Lewis Perkins of Apparel Impact Institute (Aii), released today, “Source of Good” will share actionable insights and inspiring stories that drive the urgent transformation needed in the consumer goods industry. Across 10 bi-weekly, 20-minute episodes, listeners will discover how innovative companies – including Tapestry, Primaloft, ITL, Hirdaramani, and more – use Cascale’s Higg Index tools and other pioneering practices with the aim to achieve a 45% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030, ultimately aligning with a 1.5°C future.

“Our work with Cascale is about more than metrics – it’s about building momentum for real, lasting change,” said Lewis Perkins, president at Aii. “Together, we’re shaping a shared roadmap to help our industry cut emissions. I’m inspired by what’s possible when we align around bold action and collective responsibility for a better industry and healthier planet.”

Building on the inaugural season successes – including a conversation with Rick Ridgeway, legendary mountaineer, environmentalist, writer, and Cascale co-founder – “Source of Good” set the standard for industry dialogue on sustainable practices. With subscribers in over 50 countries, listeners can find the podcast on all major streaming platforms and follow the journey of industry change through each insightful episode.

“By spotlighting supply chain decarbonization, we’re addressing one of today’s most urgent challenges—while sharing powerful stories of transformation. These episodes showcase tangible strategies that inspire collective action and demonstrate how our industry can unite for a sustainable future,” said Lee Green, vice president of Marketing & Communications at Cascale.

“Source of Good” is produced by Hueman Group Media, a Webby-winning media company that produces high-caliber podcasts for social change and impact. The show is hosted by Rachel Lincoln Sarnoff, Cascale’s communications director and a former journalist. “Source of Good” is available on multiple platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and more.

For more information about Cascale and to listen to the Source of Good podcast, visit cascale.org/resources/podcast/ or join our email mailing list here.

ABOUT CASCALE

Cascale is the global nonprofit alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry. Formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively available on Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Cascale unites over 300 retailers, brands, manufacturers, governments, academics, and NGO/nonprofit affiliates around the globe through one singular vision: To catalyze impact at scale and give back more than we take to the planet and its people. LinkedIn | X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

If you’re like most homebuyers on a budget, you’re probably paying close attention to the asking price of homes on the market. You may even have a ballpark figure or mortgage payment in mind. That’s a great start. But it’s important to be aware that the cost of buying a house is a bit more complicated than the asking price. KeyBank’s 2025 Financial Mobility Survey found that while many believe owning a home is not an attainable goal for themselves nor the average American, financial education can help them be more confident in the home-buying process. KeyBank can help you prepare for the costs and build a budget so you can go through this with confidence.

Costs to Consider When Building Your Budget

Once you’ve found a home you like and your offer is accepted, it typically takes 30 to 45 days for the deal to close. During this time, there are several costs you’ll be responsible for. Factoring these early costs of homeownership into your plans will help you make the best choices for your finances.

Down payment: According to The Mortgage Reports, a typical down payment for a house is up to 20% of the purchase price, depending on the type of loan. If you don’t have 10%–20% saved, a KeyBank Mortgage Loan Officer can see whether you qualify for a loan that requires as little as zero down.

Closing costs: You should also budget for closing costs equal to approximately 3%–6% of the amount you’re borrowing. Closing costs include title insurance, appraisal fees, prepaid homeowners insurance and other fees. Some lenders may allow you to roll the closing costs into your loan and, in some instances, a motivated seller may agree to pay some of the closing costs. This is offered on a case-by-case basis and is something you should discuss with your realtor to make sure you understand and consider any tradeoffs.

A KeyBank mortgage loan officer can look at your income, assets, debt, and credit to create an accurate estimate of costs for homes you’re considering. They can also identify any incentives you may qualify for, like KeyBank’s interest rate discount¹. For example, on a $200,000 loan with a fixed 6.25% interest rate, our .25% interest rate discount could save you a considerable amount over the life of the loan.²

Additional Homeownership Costs

There are many recurring costs associated with owning a home. Here are a few of the costs you can expect:

Homeowners insurance: Usually an annual cost, homeowners insurance premiums may often be paid as part of your regular mortgage payment.

Property taxes: Sometimes referred to as real estate taxes, property taxes may be collected as part of your mortgage payment or paid separately.

Utilities: These include electricity, gas, water and sewer, trash, and recycling.

Home services: Make sure to budget for services like internet, phone, or home security.

Ongoing maintenance costs: Each year, consider setting aside at least 1% of your home’s purchase price for ongoing home maintenance costs. If you plan to do any renovations shortly after move-in, or if the home inspection turned up any issues that need immediate attention, make sure to factor those expenses in, too, like new furniture and appliances.

KeyBank’s registered mortgage loan officers can help guide you through every step of the home-buying process. Contact us today.

About the KeyBank 2025 Financial Mobility Survey: This survey was conducted online by Schmidt Market Research in September 2024, polling 1,000 Americans, ages 18 – 70, with sole or shared responsibility for household financial decisions, who own a checking or savings account. The survey sought to gain insight into financial resiliency and explored respondents’ spending and savings habits, levels of financial confidence and financial resiliency, economic sentiment, and impacts of societal trends and pressures over the prior year.

This is designed to provide general information only. All credit products are subject to collateral and/or credit approval, terms, conditions, availability and subject to change. ©2025 KeyCorp. All rights reserved. CFMA #250404-3134828

NOTICE: This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Conditions and restrictions may apply. All home lending products, including mortgage, home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, are subject to credit and collateral approval. Not all home lending products are available in all states. Hazard insurance and, if applicable, flood insurance are required on collateral property. Actual rates, fees, and terms are based on those offered as of the date of application and are subject to change without notice.

NMLS #399797. Equal Housing Lender. Mortgage and Home Equity Lending products offered by KeyBank are not FDIC insured or guaranteed. KeyBank extends credit secured by residential real estate without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, handicap, or familial status.

¹To receive relationship benefits on a new KeyBank mortgage loan, which provides a 0.25% interest rate reduction, you must have owned a Relationship Account at any time during the mortgage loan application process, but no later than seven (7) business days prior to the closing of the mortgage loan. This Interest rate reduction is available on new KeyBank mortgage loan applications only.
As an alternative to the relationship benefit, you may obtain a 0.25% interest rate reduction if you complete and submit, no later than seven (7) business days prior to the closing of the mortgage loan, the Monthly Automatic Payment form to have your recurring mortgage payment for your KeyBank mortgage loan automatically deducted from an “Eligible KeyBank Consumer Checking Account”. Refer to the Monthly Automatic Payment form for more details.
For fixed-rate mortgages, the 0.25% interest rate reduction will be reflected in the interest rate on the Promissory Note. For adjustable-rate mortgages (“ARMs”), the 0.25% interest rate reduction will apply to the initial fixed interest rate period and will be reflected in the maximum amount the interest rate can increase of the term of the loan, subject to the minimum interest rate that may be charged per the terms of the Promissory Note or Agreement. 
“Relationship Account” means (A) an open Eligible KeyBank Consumer Checking Account with five (5) or more Qualifying Transactions posted to a single Eligible KeyBank Consumer Checking Account in a calendar month, which may not be aggregated across other accounts you own, OR (B) an open Key Private Bank Checking or Key Private Bank Personal Checking account.
An “Eligible KeyBank Consumer Checking Account” means: any KeyBank consumer checking account designated as a personal checking account by KeyBank, including KeyBank’s Hassle-Free checking account, but excluding a health savings account.
“Qualifying Transactions” include, but are not limited to, point of sale transactions, bill payment(s), ATM transactions, check, cash or direct deposits, and electronic funds transfers. Qualifying Transactions exclude adjustments, advances, reversals, refunds, account to account transfers, person-to-person transfers, interest, service charges, and service fees. Qualifying Transactions must be completed at least three (3) business days prior to application to be eligible for inclusion in determining whether you met the “Relationship Account” portion of the “Bank with Key” criteria.
The 0.25% interest rate reduction may not be combined with certain other discounts or promotions and may not be available for all home lending products. Other terms, conditions, and/or limitations may apply. Contact KeyBank Home Lending for more details.

²This example is provided for illustrative purposes only to show possible savings. It does not constitute a commitment to lend on the terms listed, nor does it reflect the current mortgage interest rate offered by KeyBank. Your actual total savings may vary.

Originally published on PSEG NewsRoom

NEWARK, N.J., April 22, 2025 /3BL/ – PSE&G reminds customers how to spot and avoid utility scams. We join Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS) in supporting the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC’s) annual National Consumer Protection Week, along with more than 100 federal, state and local agencies; consumer groups and national advocacy organizations.

PSE&G works hard to inform customers about scams. Utility impostor scammers pretend to represent electric, natural gas, water and sewer utilities to steal customers’ money and personal information. Being aware of how scammers operate can save customers from being cheated out of hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.

Scammers approach customers through a variety of methods, including texts, phone calls, in-person visits and emails. Scammers often claim a customer is past due on their utility bill, and demand payment through one specific payment option to avoid service disconnection. PSE&G offers various ways to pay your bill and would never require a specific type of payment. PSE&G payment options include online, through our mobile app, by text, phone, mail or at a customer service center. The newest ways to pay include Amazon Pay, PayPal®, Google Pay, Apple Pay and Venmo.*

“The safety and security of our customers is always a top priority. We continue to raise awareness and educate customers about how to spot and stop potential scams,” said Dave Johnson, senior vice president and chief customer experience officer, PSE&G. “Scammers try to blindside you with an urgent problem in the hopes that you panic and miss all the clues of a scam. We want customers to remember one simple thing: If someone calls threatening to shut off your power or gas service and demands a specific type of payment immediately, hang up and call the number that’s printed on your bill to verify before acting.”

Anyone can fall victim to a utility scam. 

Our customers have reported how scammers have demanded a specific type of payment while threatening disconnection. Here are a few real-life stories:

• A customer made a payment using gift cards and lost over $1,300 to a scammer.
• A customer paid via a “money pack” through a convenience store and lost $500.
• A customer made a payment via a texted bar-code and lost $400.
• A pizzeria owner lost almost $2,000 when a scammer called his store and demanded payment using Money Express.
• An auto shop owner fell victim to a scammer who advised the customer to make multiple cash payments using money transfers over $1,700.

Spoofing caller ID

It’s important to be aware that scammers may also use what’s called “Call Spoofing.” Scammers will manipulate caller ID to display the utility company’s real phone number, making their scheme seem legitimate.

For example, a customer reported that his caller ID said “PSEG” and he was told he had to pay $2,400 via various gift cards to avoid being switched to a third party energy supplier. The customer shared with us that it was a very stressful time for him and he fell for the scam because he was distracted with a family emergency.

Common utility scam tactics

• Fake phone calls – Scammers call pretending to be from your utility company, claiming your bill is overdue and demanding immediate payment, often through prepaid cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
• Phony door-to-door visits – Fraudsters may show up at your home wearing fake uniforms, insisting on an immediate inspection or payment.
• Suspicious emails and texts – You may receive messages claiming to be from your utility provider with links asking for payment or personal details.
• Caller ID spoofing – Scammers can manipulate caller ID to display a utility company’s real phone number, making their scheme seem legitimate.

How to protect yourself

• Stay calm and verify – If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact your utility company directly using the number on your bill.
• Check credentials – If someone comes to your door claiming to be from your utility, ask for proper identification and call the company to confirm their identity.

What to do if you paid a scammer

Scammers often ask you to pay in ways that make it tough to get your money back. Learn more about how to get your money back.

Report utility scams

If you got a call from, or were contacted by, a scammer or imposter:

• Report the scam to PSE&G by calling 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).
• Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Report it to your state attorney general.
• Share your experience to help educate others.

Raising awareness about utility scams helps protect our communities from fraud.

Stay informed, stay cautious and always verify before you pay!

Visit and share our scam alert webpage for additional information: pseg.com/ScamAlert

PSE&G

Public Service Electric & Gas Co. is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility, as well as one of the nation’s largest utilities. PSE&G has won the ReliabilityOne® Award for superior electric system reliability in the Mid-Atlantic region for 23 consecutive years. For the third consecutive year, PSE&G is the recipient of the ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award in the Energy Efficiency Program Delivery category. In addition, in 2024 J.D. Power named PSE&G number one in customer satisfaction with residential electric service and gas service in the east among large utilities. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc., (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a predominantly regulated infrastructure company focused on a clean energy future and has been named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for North America for 17 consecutive years (www.pseg.com).

*Fees apply 

Contacts:

Rebecca Mazzarella
Media line: 973-430-7734
Rebecca.Mazzarella@pseg.com

At Boehringer Ingelheim, every day is Earth Day because we’re continuously working to reduce our environmental footprint while serving the patients that need us. Logistics play a key role in this effort.

In 2024, we collaborated with our supplier, Kuehne+Nagel to use Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) made from used vegetable cooking oil, meeting high sustainability standards.

Switching to SAF helps both our companies reduce the environmental impact of our logistics on the planet. This pilot project already achieved a reduction of approximately 8,000 tons of CO₂ emissions in just one year.

This initiative promotes “smarter logistics” and demonstrates the importance of collaboration in driving sustainability. Uwe Krämer, Boehringer’s Head of Global Logistics Network & Performance Management agrees with this stating, “This is an example of how smart collaboration in logistics can drive progress towards a more sustainable future.”

Did You Know?

Earth Day, celebrated every year on April 22, raises awareness about long-term ecological sustainability. It marks the anniversary of the modern environmental movement’s birth in 1970. In 2016, the United Nations chose Earth Day to sign the Paris Agreement, a significant climate accord. This year’s theme, “OUR POWER, OUR PLANET,” encourages global unity behind renewable energy and aims to triple clean electricity generation by 2030.

Explore our other stories from 2024 in Imagine: our sustainability story hub, where we strive to make a positive impact not only for our environment but also for our people and animals.

April is National Volunteer Month, and Covia wants to take a moment to celebrate all of our amazing volunteers! Covia’s team members are actively involved in their communities and take great pride in the work they do to strengthen our connection to those communities. We are particularly excited to honor our Volunteer of the Year, David Morris from Covia’s Cleburne, Texas Plant, as well as the winners of the President’s Volunteer Awards, which recognize those who contributed 200 or more volunteer hours in 2024. This year, we are proud to recognize the following team members who have qualified for the award.

• CaryAnn Bruce – North Carolina Home Office
• Curtis Petrey – Independence, Ohio
• Darik Corson – Oregon, Illinois
• David Gatto – Havelock, Ontario
• David Morris – Cleburne, Texas
• *Josh Lipe – Tamms,  Illinois
• *Natalie King – North Carolina Home Office
• Sheryl Etienne – Huntingburg, Indiana 

*Previous Volunteer of the Year Winner

Covia would like to congratulate this year’s award recipients and express our gratitude for their impactful contributions to the communities in which we live and work.

For more information about the Covia Foundation, community impact and philanthropy, please visit https://www.coviacorp.com/esg/positive-social-impact/.

This year’s Biomedical HIV Prevention Summit in Atlanta emphasized the importance of advancing prevention in the U.S. South, a region disproportionately impacted by HIV. We joined advocates, community partners and healthcare leaders to discuss the future of prevention and to drive meaningful action – and the energy in the room was palpable. By working closely with the communities most affected, we aim to ensure everyone receives the care and services they need to help end the HIV epidemic.

Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Gilead Sciences, Inc. is a research-based biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and commercializes innovative medicines in areas of unmet medical need. The company strives to transform and simplify care for people with life-threatening illnesses around the world. Gilead has operations in more than 35 countries worldwide, with headquarters in Foster City, California. 

Originally published by Gilead Sciences

• Grants awarded to seven Florida organizations to support those facing hunger
• Grants allow the continuation and expansion of food programs for children, adults and seniors

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., April 22, 2025 /3BL/ – The Duke Energy Foundation announced $125,000 in grant funding to nonprofit organizations that help get food on the table for those in need. These contributions add to last fall’s $100,000 donation to Feeding Florida in response to hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“Duke Energy Florida is proud to support local nonprofits dedicated to providing food and fighting hunger on behalf of Floridians during difficult times,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Together, with these organizations, we can decrease the number of families in our community that are experiencing hunger.”

The Duke Energy Foundation supports individuals and families having access to healthy meals as a critical measure to support the success of the communities the company serves. Grants have been awarded to the organizations below that provide necessary food and nutrition to people of all ages, from children to seniors:

• Feed Hunger Now: $10,000
  This Seminole County organization will use funds to further its sustainable food garden, which supports its 115-bed homeless shelter, as well as other local food agencies.
   
• Backpack Buddies: $10,000
  These funds will be used to continue operating their existing “kids pack” program and expand it to an additional school, providing school-aged children with food for the weekends in Volusia County.
   
• Seniors First: $20,000
  Seniors First operates Orange County’s Meals on Wheels program, as well as an Emergency Meals on Wheels program. This funding will fund nutritious meals to senior citizens in their long-term program or for 30 days after facing a crisis.
   
• Osceola County Council on Aging: $40,000
  The Osceola County Council on Aging has community drive-through food pantries, as well as mobile food pantries for those with transportation challenges. This funding will support the continuation of these operations.
   
• Council on Aging of Volusia County: $5,000
  The Council on Aging of Volusia County serves vulnerable seniors. This grant will support their “Aging with Dignity” program that provides critical nutrition through protein drinks, along with incontinence and hygiene products, to senior citizens who would otherwise not be able to afford these necessities.
   
• St. Petersburg Free Clinic: $30,000
  Funds will support the organization’s We Help FRESH Pantry and Skyway expanded food bank locations, which provide free nutritious, fresh groceries to Pinellas County residents.
   
• Metropolitan Ministries: $10,000
  Funds will support the organization’s hunger relief program for residents in Pasco County.

“Both our Meals on Wheels and Emergency Meals on Wheels programs are a critical lifeline to vulnerable seniors in our community,” said Marsha Lorenz, president of Seniors First. “The support of the Duke Energy Foundation will allow us to continue providing healthy meals and well-being checks to allow underserved older adults to age with dignity and independence.”

Duke Energy Foundation

Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.

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
Email: ana.gibbs@duke-energy.com
X: @DE_AnaGibbs

View original content here.

Chemistry touches virtually every aspect of modern life, but its transformative role in unlocking sustainability often goes unnoticed. In the latest podcast episode of Five Lifes to Fifty, Jenny Liu, Head of Sustainability for Chemours’ Advanced Performance Materials business, takes listeners on a journey through the power of chemistry—not just as a science, but as a driver of innovation, decarbonization, and sustainable solutions.

“More than 95% of all manufactured goods are touched by the business of chemistry. Chemistry is essential for everything we depend on in modern society—and I believe it’s essential for decarbonization as well.” 

Jenny Liu, Global Sustainability Senior Director – Advanced Performance Materials

From electric vehicles and semiconductors to the hydrogen economy, Jenny highlights how advanced materials are shaping the future. Chemours is a leader in this space, leveraging bold sustainability goals and data-driven methodologies to ensure its products not only meet the high-performance needs of customers but also contribute meaningfully to global sustainability efforts.

For instance, Jenny discusses how Chemours works collaboratively to address sustainability challenges across the product lifecycle, applying advanced chemistry and material science knowledge to accelerate next generation technologies. As an example, Jenny discusses how Teflon™ fluoropolymer binders can revolutionize lithium-ion battery electrode manufacturing for hybrid and electric vehicles. This innovation reduces production costs, eliminates solvents harmful to workers, and improves battery performance—all while shrinking the physical footprint of manufacturing lines by 75%. It’s a clear example of what Jenny describes as enabling sustainability “through our products and applications.”

Listeners will also learn how Chemours measures its progress through the EVOLVE 2030 portfolio sustainability assessment methodology, which is used to evaluate the environmental and social impact of its product offerings and product development pipeline in relation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. EVOLVE 2030 was developed by Chemours in partnership with Anthesis Group and has received third-party assurance. Jenny’s insight into embedding sustainability into every stage of product development, from ideation to implementation, underscores the company’s commitment to advancing circularity, reducing emissions, and scaling solutions that matter.

“Sustainability is a journey,” Jenny reflects. “It takes hard work, leadership commitment, and communication. And it requires embedding these principles into the systems and processes that drive business decisions every day.”

If you’re passionate about ESG strategies, sustainable innovation, or the future of advanced materials, don’t miss the latest episode of Five Lifes to Fifty, “Chemours’ Jenny Liu on the Power of Chemistry to Shape a Sustainable Future.”

Grammy Award winning singer and songwriter Anthony Hamilton underwent a colonoscopy for the first time in his mid-20’s, right around the same time as his first record deal.

“I was having digestive issues and when the doctors did a colonoscopy they found polyps,” he remembers. “Ever since then I’ve been really aware of how I feel, trying to live right and eat right and stay ahead of problems whenever I can. Regular colonoscopies help me do that.”

In the 30-or-so-years since his first colonoscopy, Hamilton’s doctors found polyps during several checkups, and they discovered more at his most recent exam in early 2025. But that checkup was different than all the rest.

“One of the polyps we found was pretty hard to see,” said Dr. Lanre Jimoh, a gastroenterologist at Carolina Digestive Health Associates in Charlotte, North Carolina. “But with the help of the GI Genius™ system, we were able to find it and others and removed them all. Everything went very well.”

The math that can help prevent cancer

The Medtronic GI Genius™ polyp detection system that Dr. Jimoh used during Hamilton’s procedure is a first-of-its-kind system which deploys artificial intelligence (AI) to help doctors identify polyps that might otherwise go undetected. It works much like facial recognition technology. Scientists and engineers input a large variety of pictures of polyps, with different colors, sizes, shapes, textures and more. Then, using more than a dozen complicated mathematical formulas known as algorithms, the system “learns” to recognize a polyp.

“The technology is called ‘deep learning’ and it’s like pattern recognition on steroids,” explained Dr. Ha Hong, chief artificial intelligence officer in the Medtronic Endoscopy business unit. “The GI Genius™ system can analyze thousands or millions of images—exponentially more than a person ever could—and recognize the patterns of a polyp.”

During an actual procedure, the GI Genius™ system analyzes images from inside the colon and in real time highlights suspected polyps within a green box so doctors can take a closer look. That’s exactly what Dr. Jimoh saw during Hamilton’s checkup.

Getting results

“We did a three-month pilot with the GI Genius™ system and we saw results almost immediately,” said Dr. Jimoh. “We’re finding more polyps and we’re finding more pre-cancerous polyps (adenomas). We are very confident that this is the right direction in terms of innovation in gastrointestinal medicine..”

Studies are finding that the GI Genius™ system is increasing the Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR) during colonoscopies by up to 14.4%¹, and that every 1% increase in ADR decreases the risk of cancer by 3%^2,3,4.

When Dr. Jimoh first told Hamilton about using the GI Genius™ system during his procedure, the singer was all about it.

“We use a lot of AI-related technology in the music industry, and I’m a huge fan,” he said. “I never put AI and colonoscopies together in my head, but I’m glad it’s available and now I can move ahead with even more confidence than before.”

He paused for a moment and then smiled.

“I’ve been nominated for 18 Grammys and I finally won one so I could bring it home. But I’d rather have a healthy colon over all of it.”

This is one in a series of stories about how Medtronic is using artificial intelligence to diagnose disease. Learn more about how math can help detect heart disease even before you know you’re sick.

Are you interested in a GI Genius™ system colonoscopy? Check out www.medtronic.com/genius

Indications, Safety, and Warnings

GI Genius™ intelligent endoscopy module

Indications

GI Genius™ intelligent endoscopy module is a computer-assisted reading tool designed to aid endoscopists in detecting colonic mucosal lesions (such as polyps and adenomas) in real time during standard white light endoscopy examinations of patients undergoing screening and surveillance endoscopic mucosal evaluations. The GI Genius™ computer-assisted detection device is limited for use with standard white-light endoscopy imaging only. This device is not intended to replace clinical decision making.

Contraindications and warnings

GI Genius™ system is intended to be used as an adjunct to colonoscopy procedures and is not intended to replace endoscopist assessment or histopathological sampling. GI Genius™ system does not make any elaboration or alteration of the colonoscopy video streaming, it only overlays graphical markers.

Danger: Do not use this system for any purpose other than its intended use.

Danger: The system does not perform any diagnosis.

Caution: The sale, distribution, and the use of the GI Genius™ system are restricted to prescription use in accordance with 21 CFR 801.109.

Caution: The device is not intended to be used as a stand-alone diagnostic device.

Caution: The device is not intended to characterize lesions in a manner that would potentially replace biopsy sampling.

Caution: The device is not intended to replace clinical decision-making.

Caution: The device is not intended to be used with equipment that was not tested against it during validation activities.

Caution: The device has not been studied in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), history of CRC, or previous colonic resection. The device performance may be negatively impacted by mucosal irregularities such as background inflammation from certain underlying disease.

Caution: Users should be aware, when using automated systems such as the GI Genius™ that provide assistance in identifying suspicious lesions, that a high level of reliance may be placed on the system output, potentially leading to user complacency and a bias towards accepting the system output results, rather than using the device as intended. The device is intended to provide adjunctive information to the endoscopist who performs endoscopic evaluations with an expected high level of clinical expertise. Placing too much reliance on the system in this way may lead to an unacceptably low level of procedural oversight (situational awareness), sub-par evaluation of the patient, and eventual endoscopist skill degradation, following which retraining may be necessary.

Danger: Using incompatible equipment can result in patient injury or equipment damage and makes it impossible to obtain the expected functionality.

Risks

Electrical risks

Danger: Observe the following precautions. Failure to do so may place the patient and medical personnel in danger of electric shock. Keep fluids away from the system. If fluids are spilled on or into the system, immediately stop any operation of the system. If fluids are spilled on or into the system, immediately stop any operation of the system and contact support.

Danger: Do not use the system when not properly closed. Do not touch electrical contacts inside any component of the system.

Fire or explosion risks

Danger: In order to prevent fire and explosion, do not expose the system where:

There is a high concentration of oxygen

Air contains oxidizing agents (e.g., n2o)

Air contains any flammable gases

There are flammable liquids nearby

Interferences

Warning: System may interfere with other equipment.

Caution: Electromagnetic interference may occur to this instrument when it is placed near equipment marked with the following symbol electromagnetic interference symbol or other portable and mobile RF communications equipment such as cellular phones. If radio interference occurs, mitigation measures may be necessary, such as reorienting or relocating this instrument or shielding the location. Do not use GI Genius™ system and its cables closer than 30 cm (12 inches) to the equipment with the following symbol electromagnetic interference symbol.

Electromagnetic fields

Warning: Do not use the system where there is a strong electromagnetic field (e.g., magnetic resonance, wireless devices, microwave-emitting devices).

Mechanical forces

Caution: While pressing buttons or touching the system, do not use hard or pointed objects or apply excessive force otherwise damage to the equipment will occur.

Connection and disconnections

Caution: Do not connect/disconnect any cable of the system while any component is powered on, otherwise damage to the equipment will occur.

¹ Repici A, Badalamenti M, Maselli R, et al. Efficacy of real-time computer-aided detection of colorectal neoplasia in a randomized trial. Gastroenterology. 2020;159:512–520.e7
² Corley DA, Jenson CD, Marks AR JR, et al. Adenoma detection rate and risk of colorectal cancer and death. N Engl J Med. 2014;370:2539–2541
³ Corley DA, Jensen CD, Marks AR, et al. Adenoma detection rate and risk of colorectal cancer and death. N Engl J Med. 2014;370:1298–1306
⁴ Recipi A, Badalamenti M, Maselli R, et al. Artificial intelligence for colorectal polyp detection: high accuracy and detection anticipation with CB-17-08 performance. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. June 2019.