Hurricane Ida damage boosts calls to rebuild with the infrastructure bill: CNBC After Hours

Published

4 years ago

September 3, 2021

admin

CNBC.com’s MacKenzie Sigalos brings you the day’s top business news headlines. On today’s show, CNBC’s Ylan Mui reports on how lawmakers want to invest in states repeatedly hit by hurricanes using the infrastructure bill. Plus, Apple unveils which states will use its digital drivers license feature when it launches in the fall.

Biden pledges a vast federal response to Hurricane Ida for ‘as long as it takes’

The federal government is doing everything in its power to help Louisiana and Mississippi rescue residents and recover from Hurricane Ida, President Joe Biden told the governors of those states on Monday.

“We’re there to help you get back on your feet,” Biden said during a virtual briefing at the White House with Democratic Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards, Republican Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves and others.

The hurricane made landfall Sunday as a powerful Category 4 storm, knocking out power to as many as 2 million people in Louisiana and Mississippi. By Monday morning, one death had already been attributed to the storm. Edwards told MSNBC he expected that number to rise considerably.

The vast federal response to the storm reinforces one of the pillars of Biden’s approach to the presidency: his belief that the government is uniquely equipped to mobilize assistance to millions of people.

Apple announces first states that will let you keep a digital version of your driver’s license on your iPhone

Eight states will roll out a feature allowing users to add driver’s license and state IDs to Apple Wallet for iPhone and Apple Watch to use at security at participating airports, Apple announced Wednesday.

Arizona and Georgia are the first states to adopt the feature and Connecticut, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Oklahoma and Utah will follow, though the company did not specify a timeline.

The news comes just months after Apple said at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June that it was working on the feature with the Transportation Security Administration. The update is a crucial step in Apple’s plan to replace physical wallets and will offer more convenience to travelers looking for a touchless airport experience, the company said.

Adding IDs to the Wallet app works similarly to uploading credit cards and transit passes, Apple said. Once users scan the ID, they will also be asked to complete facial and head movements as an additional security measure.

After tapping their mobile ID at identity readers in airports, users must approve a note from TSA using Face ID or Touch ID. The company says customer data is “encrypted and protected against tampering and theft” and that the ID can only be viewed by the owner.

WHO says it is monitoring a new Covid variant called ‘mu’

The World Health Organization is monitoring a new coronavirus variant called “mu,” which the agency says has mutations that have the potential to evade immunity provided by a previous Covid-19 infection or vaccination.

Mu — also known by scientists as B.1.621 — was added to the WHO’s list of variants “of interest” on Aug. 30, the international health organization said in its weekly Covid epidemiological report published late Tuesday.

The variant contains genetic mutations that indicate natural immunity, current vaccines or monoclonal antibody treatments may not work as well against it as they do against the original ancestral virus, the WHO said. The mu strain needs further study to confirm whether it will prove to be more contagious, more deadly or more resistant to current vaccines and treatments.

Environment

What now for peak oil? Unpacking a surprise twist in the fossil fuel feud

Published

2 hours ago

November 13, 2025

admin

What now for peak oil? Unpacking a surprise twist in the fossil fuel feud

A worker inspects the outdoor gas pipes at the underground gas storage facility operated by Gas Storage CZ AS, in Haje, Czech Republic, on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025.

Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

The International Energy Agency’s latest outlook signals that oil demand could keep growing through to the middle of the century, reflecting a sharp tonal shift from the world’s energy watchdog and raising further questions about the future of fossil fuels.

In its flagship World Energy Outlook, the Paris-based agency on Wednesday laid out a scenario in which demand for oil climbs to 113 million barrels per day by 2050, up 13% from 2024 levels.

The IEA had previously estimated a peak in global fossil fuel demand before the end of this decade and said that, in order to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, there should be no new investments in coal, oil and gas projects.

The concept of peak oil refers to the point at which global crude production reaches its highest point, before subsequently entering an irreversible decline.

The IEA’s end-of-decade peak oil forecast kick-started a long-running war of words with OPEC, an influential group of oil exporting countries, which accused the IEA of fearmongering and risking the destabilization of the global economy. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, meanwhile, labeled the IEA’s peak oil demand assumption as “nonsensical.”

The IEA’s latest forecast of increasing oil demand was outlined in its “Current Policies Scenario” — one of a number of scenarios outlined by the IEA. This one assumes no new policies or regulations beyond those already in place.

The CPS was dropped five years ago amid energy market turmoil during the coronavirus pandemic, and its reintroduction follows pressure from the Trump administration.

Earlier this month, the IEA said that now that the world has passed through the pandemic and global energy crisis, “there is merit in revisiting the CPS.”

The agency said increasing oil demand would be primarily driven by demand for petrochemical products and jet fuel, alongside a slowdown in the growth of electric vehicles.

Gregory Brew, an analyst at Eurasia Group’s Energy, Climate and Resources team, said the IEA’s retreat on peak oil demand signified “a major shift” from the group’s position over the last five years.

“The justifications offered for the shift include policy changes in the U.S., where slow EV penetration indicates robust oil [consumption], but is also tied to expected increases in petrochemical and aviation fuel in East and Southeast Asia,” Brew told CNBC by email.

“It’s unlikely the agency is adjusting based on political pressure — though there has been some of that, with the Trump administration criticizing the group’s supposed bias in favor of renewable energy — and the shift reflects a broader skepticism that oil demand is set to peak any time soon,” he added.

A misguided notion?

In an apparent thawing of tensions between two major players in the energy industry, OPEC welcomed what it described as the IEA’s “rendezvous with reality.”

In a statement published on its website, OPEC said: “We hope that the IEA’s World Energy Outlook represents a return to the fold of analysis grounded in energy realities and that we have passed the peak in the misguided notion of ‘peak oil.'”

Alongside its CPS, the IEA also laid out projections under its so-called “Stated Policies Scenario” (STEPS), which reflects the prevailing direction of travel for the global energy system.

In this assumption, the IEA said it expects oil demand to peak at 102 million barrels per day around 2030, before gradually declining. Global electric car sales are much stronger under this scenario compared to the CPS.

The IEA said its multiple scenarios explore a range of consequences from various policy choices and should not be considered forecasts.

Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), at the World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) conference in Paris, France, on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. The conference gathers key figures of the international nuclear sector from Nov. 4-6.

Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Grant Hauber, an energy analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), said the IEA’s CPS appears to be the U.S. administration “capitulation” scenario, which sees some sort of flattening of current energy market trends.

“This leads to what almost appears to be a false dawn of LNG demand that could provide encouragement to those investing in the U.S. LNG export boom. CPS ‘creates’ enough global LNG demand to justify build-outs through 2035,” Hauber said.

“However, one only need look at the STEPS scenario to see how fragile that outlook is. Demand-Supply matching evaporates quickly over that same timeframe leading to LNG surplus. This occurs even with STEPS’ more moderated additions of renewables, efficiency and electrification measures,” he added.

Climate crisis

In all of the IEA’s scenarios, the energy watchdog predicted that global temperatures will rise by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Scientists have repeatedly warned that global average temperatures must not increase by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius to avoid the worst of the climate crisis.

This threshold is recognized as a crucial long-term target because tipping points become more likely beyond this level. Tipping points can lead to dramatic shifts or potentially irreversible changes to some of Earth’s largest systems.

Extreme temperatures are fueled by the climate crisis, the chief driver of which is the burning of fossil fuels.

Lars Nitter Havro, head of energy macro at Rystad Energy, said the IEA’s reintroduction of its CPS represents “a tonal shift,” but shouldn’t necessarily be seen as a “wholesale reversal” on peak oil.

Environment

ChargePoint just gave its EV charging software a major AI upgrade

Published

2 hours ago

November 13, 2025

admin

ChargePoint just gave its EV charging software a major AI upgrade

ChargePoint software — Image: ChargePoint

ChargePoint just rolled out a huge AI update to its EV charger software, and it’s a big deal for anyone managing EV chargers, whether it’s a handful of stations or a sprawling network.

The newly re-engineered ChargePoint Platform is designed to support any charging infrastructure, while simplifying the process of monitoring, controlling, and optimizing operations. It’s now being deployed by customers like Verizon, which says the system’s new AI tools have already made analyzing charging data faster and more intuitive.

“Features like the AI data assistant, enhanced search, and instant session details have made data analysis faster and more intuitive,” said Mitch Johnson, Verizon’s senior manager of global real estate, energy, and sustainability.

Smarter, faster, more open

ChargePoint says its updated platform was re-engineered from the ground up to manage everything from EV fleets and workplace charging to public fast-charging hubs. Key new features include AI-driven analytics that can predict maintenance needs and optimize energy use in real-time, along with a redesigned dashboard that provides operators with live insights on charger health and usage.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

The ChargePoint Platform can now manage any OCPP-compliant charger, regardless of make or model. The platform’s real-time load balancing and dynamic pricing tools help reduce energy costs during peak hours. It also has a new Waitlist feature that helps prevent queues from clogging up by automatically notifying drivers when a spot becomes available.

ChargePoint says the refreshed platform can scale easily and includes enhanced data security, new mobile-friendly controls, and accessibility features for global teams. The update is rolling out to customers now.

If you’re looking to replace your old HVAC equipment, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you’re finding a trusted, reliable HVAC installer near you that offers competitive pricing on heat pumps, check out EnergySage. EnergySage is a free service that makes it easy for you to get a heat pump. They have pre-vetted heat pump installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high quality solutions. Plus, it’s free to use!

Your personalized heat pump quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here. – *ad

Add Electrek as a preferred source on Google

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Environment

Tern launches next-gen Vektron folding e-bike in the US – now with belt drive

Published

4 hours ago

November 13, 2025

admin

Tern launches next-gen Vektron folding e-bike in the US – now with belt drive

Tern’s popular Vektron folding e-bike just got a big upgrade for the US market. The urban mobility brand has announced the launch of the fourth-generation Vektron, now available in two models, including a long-awaited belt-drive option that promises lower maintenance and a cleaner ride.

The Vektron has been a fan favorite for years, appealing to city riders, multi-modal commuters, and travelers who want a premium e-bike that folds quickly and stores easily. The new version retains its fast-folding frame, Bosch mid-drive motor, and compact portability, but introduces key improvements in comfort, ride quality, and drivetrain options – most notably the new Vektron P5i with a Gates Carbon Belt Drive. While the new version came to other markets a few months ago, the US is finally getting a chance to ride the new model.

“The Vektron has been a solid favorite of Tern riders, whether they are multi-modal commuters, urban dwellers in need of an e-bike that stores in minimal space, or campers looking to easily include an e-bike in their travels, ” explained Steve Boyd, General Manager at Tern USA. “This 4th generation introduces several important improvements while retaining its category-leading combination of Bosch mid-drive power, superior ride quality, and incredibly fast and easy folding action. We’ve also added a belt drive model and, through careful component choices, managed to deliver competitive pricing despite cost increases due to tariff pressures.”

Paired with a Shimano Nexus 5 internally geared hub, the Vektron P5i is designed for ultra-low maintenance and daily convenience. For those who prefer a traditional derailleur setup, the Vektron P10 is still available with a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and a more aggressive geometry.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

But it’s not just the drivetrain that got a refresh. Tern borrowed design elements from its popular GSD and HSD cargo bikes to give the Vektron a more upright and comfort-focused cockpit. Riders get a taller stem, swept-back handlebars, and better weight distribution, offering a more relaxed riding posture ideal for urban cruising.

Despite its compact size, the Vektron delivers big design features. Reinforced frame components, including Tern’s robust OCL+ folding joint, give it a stable and confidence-inspiring ride that the company says sets it apart from other folders on the market.

Folding takes less than 10 seconds, and once compacted, the bike rolls easily on its own wheels – no awkward lifting required. It tucks neatly under a desk or next to a workstation, offering a secure indoor parking solution for city riders wary of bike theft.

Importantly, both new Vektron models are UL 2849 and EN 15194 certified, ensuring the electrical systems meet rigorous safety standards – a welcome reassurance in a market increasingly crowded by low-cost, uncertified imports.

The Vektron P10 will retail for $3,699 USD, while the belt-drive P5i model comes in at $4,099 USD. Both are expected to land in North American bike shops by the end of the year.

Electrek’s Take

Tern definitely deserves its place as one of the leaders in premium folding e-bikes that don’t compromise on ride quality. The addition of a belt-drive model is a major win for commuters and anyone tired of greasy chains and derailleur tune-ups. And in a market where safety certifications are becoming more critical, it’s good to see Tern doubling down on UL compliance. With the new Vektron, it looks like the Goldilocks of folding e-bikes just got even better.