Wind & Solar Push: China unveiled a five-year plan making its renewables target binding, aiming to boost wind and solar generation by 53% in five years, add 300GW of renewable peaking capacity, and expand pumped hydro to 160GW by 2030. Grid & Demand: The IEA says global electricity demand will grow faster in 2026-27 (3.6% and 3.8%), with data centers and EVs driving load while West Asia conflict keeps power prices volatile. Corporate Deal: MN8 Energy will acquire Greenbacker in a US$375M deal, building a larger US clean-power platform with wind, solar, and battery storage. Policy & Permits: Italy’s constitutional court struck down Sardinia’s blanket renewable permit freeze, clearing the way for more solar and wind projects. Household Solar: UK law change allows plug-in “balcony” solar panels from 27 August, letting retailers sell DIY setups for renters and flats. Hydropower Safety: India’s NHPC Teesta Stage VI tunnel rescue in Sikkim ended with all 25 workers recovered after a methane-triggered blast. Energy Security Shock: Houthis threatened Saudi Aramco after attacking Saudi tankers, raising fears for Red Sea shipping and oil prices. Land-Use Rules: Philippines farmland conversion guidelines are expected in August, with tighter limits on highly productive irrigated land and slope-based restrictions that could affect solar siting. Local Solar Success: A Limpopo mine launched a behind-the-meter 68MW solar plant to cut Eskom-linked electricity costs and emissions.